Amityville Herald 01_15_2025

HERALD AMITYvIlle

ReCORD

Also serving Amityville, North Amityville, Amity Harbor, Copiague, and East Massapequa

Three fires erupt; 1 pronounced dead

Governor speaks at LIA breakfast

Vinciulla

Suffolk County Legislature Minority Leader Jason Richberg honored Charles Vinciulla of Amityville as the 15th Legislative District’s 2024 “Veteran of the Year” at the legislature’s general meeting on November 26.

Earlier last year, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a resolution establishing an annual recognition of a “Veteran of the Year” from each legislative dis

trict. This initiative coincides with the national celebration of Veterans Day and underscores Suffolk County’s commitment to honoring the courage, patriotism, and sacrifice of all military veterans.

Each year legislators select a veteran residing within their district to be honored. This recognition celebrates the inspiring service of local veterans

FSD educator recognized

Welcome Mesita!

New restaurant set to open in Amityville in early February

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The long-anticipated opening of Amityville’s newest restaurant, Mesita, is expected early February with the owners saying they are excited to be in Amityville and look forward to bringing fineMexican food with a modern flair to its customers.

“More than three years ago, we decided to transform this beautiful, historical building into a breathtaking restaurant,” said Joe Lopez, general manager.

The restaurant is at 8 Greene Avenue (the former Chase Bank Building) and has 25–30-foot ceilings, balcony overlooking the first level, decorated with trees in the center. The restaurant, part of a chain with locations in Garden City, Port Washington and Rockville Centre, can offer catered events for up to 75 people.

“We knew Amityville was perfectly located between Massapequa and Babylon and Farmingdale and we love that we have Vittorio’s right next door, as well as the Warehouse and Amityville Music Hall—all of which complement our restaurant,” said Lopez.

“We love to hear that,” said Amityville Village

Mayor Dennis Siry. “This is definitely going to be a boost for Amityville.”

Anticipating the need for additional parking for this restaurant and other businesses in the area, Amityville Trustees Mike O’Neill and Kevin Smith are proposing a short-term plan to provide free parking on the north side of the railroad station tentatively from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

“We will work and communicate with the businesses, particularly Vittorio’s, The Music Hall, The Warehouse, Amity Ales and Mesita to ask them to promote the free parking,” said O’Neill.

Smith added that after the free parking program is in place for a while, the Village Board will review it and consider what else, if anything needs to be done, or what changes to the plan the Village should consider.

Mesita is holding a job fair Thurs., Jan 16, 3-7 p.m.; Fri., Jan. 17, 1-4 p.m., and Sat., Jan 18, 1-4 p.m., at the restaurant for servers, food runners, bartenders, hostesses, line cooks and floor managers. Their phone number is 631520-5383.

In other business the Vil -

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Photo: Courtesy of S.C. Leg. Jason Ribhberg Veteran Charles Vinciulla, of Amityville, being honored at the S.C. Legislature by Legislator Jason Richberg.

Point of Order! Copiague students stand out in Moot Court

Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School recently participated in the Moot Court Competition at the Central Islip Courthouse. The students worked in teams of two, representing petitioners and respondents, and won both rounds of the competition.

“They did an incredible job, and we

look forward to competing again next year,” said teacher Stephanie Rafuse. “It was our third year participating with eight other schools from Suffolk County.” The student participants were Scott Coy, Dwight Evans Jr., Dariely de los Santos and Aniya Kearns.

Gift

cards are still a post-holiday favorite—just make sure to spend them well before the clock runs out

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli is urging holiday gift card recipients to take a moment in the new year to track down those cards before they disappear into the state’s vault of unclaimed funds.

In a reminder just in time for postholiday shopping, DiNapoli highlighted how unused gift cards can be turned over to the Office of Unclaimed Funds (OUF) after five years of inactivity. In 2024 alone, OUF recovered more than $21 million from gift cards—over three times the amount recovered in 2014 ($5.8 million). DiNapoli is encouraging New Yorkers to spend their gift cards sooner rather than later.

“’Tis the season of giving, not losing, so please spend those gift cards and check to see if you have unclaimed funds,” DiNapoli said. “Many New Yorkers don’t realize that gift card balances may be transferred to our office after five years of inactivity. Last year, we recovered over $21 million worth of lost money from unspent gift cards.”

As of last year, New York City residents are owed the most unclaimed funds from unused gift cards—nearly $48 million—followed by Long Island residents ($11.4 million) and those in the Hudson Valley ($7.8 million).

Each business day, DiNapoli’s office returns an average of $1.5 million in un-

DEER PARK MAN ARRESTED ON WEAPONS CHARGES

Nassau County police arrested a Deer Park man on January 5, , charging him with multiple weapons and narcotics offenses.

According to detectives, officers from the Bureau of Special Operations were on patrol when they observed Vincent Fandetta, 40, of 1 Overton Street, operating a green 1996 Chevrolet van eastbound on Sunrise Highway near Unqua Road. The vehicle had illegal tinting on the front and passenger windows and non-working license plate lamps.

Officers followed the van and said the suspect failed to maintain his lane. They activated their emergency lights and sirens near Louden and County Line Roads, but the suspect continued driving until he pulled over on the ramp to Route 110 southbound.

Officers recovered several weapons, including a black expandable baton, a switchblade knife, a defaced silver Raven Arms P25 .25-caliber handgun, a loaded magazine with six .25-caliber bullets, yellow metal knuckles, and a BB gun. They also discovered multiple yellow Ziplock bags containing a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine, as well as numerous pills suspected to be controlled substances.

Fandetta was arrested and charged

claimed funds and works with retailers to identify cardholders. If a gift card has been registered online, refunded, or purchased through a store account, retailers can provide OUF with the owner’s name. If not, retailers report card details, like the card number and balance, which can then be used by the rightful owner to claim their funds.

A new law taking effect in 2025 aims to speed up the process: Gift cards with unclaimed balances of $250 or less will be returned more quickly—no claim form required. If OUF can verify an owner’s identity and mailing address, a check will be sent directly to them.

DiNapoli also reminded gift card recipients to read the fine print, noting that fees or expiration dates may apply. To avoid any issues, he encourages people to register their cards with the retailer.

Currently, the Office of Unclaimed Funds holds more than $19 billion in unclaimed assets—many of which are tied to forgotten gift cards. So, before the next holiday rolls around, make sure those gifts of cash keep their value and don’t become unclaimed funds.

For more information and to check for any unclaimed funds go to: https:// shorturl.at/0ULzv.

You can also call the Comptroller’s Office at 1-800-221-9311.

CRIME WATCH

with criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, four counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree, criminal possession of a firearm, seven counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, and four traffic violations.

He was arraigned on Jan. 6 at First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead.

UTILITY SCAM REPORTED

Lindenhurst: An individual posing as an employee of a power company went to a home/business on Wellwood Avenue at approximately 12:30 p.m. Jan. 3 to advise them their power would be turned off unless they paid an outstanding bill. The. scammer told the individual to get a prepaid card at a local store which they would accept as payment. The individual complied but later called police to report the theft.

STORE THEFTS

East Farmingdale: A representative of BJ’s Wholesale store on Daniel Street called police to report that someone took a variety of food and beverages and left the store without paying for the items. There was no value of the items reported.

Copiague: An assortment of food items was stolen from Target, Sunrise Hwy., Copiague on Dec. 31.

GRAND LARCENY

Farmingdale: The representatives for Home Depot in Airport Plaza, report the theft of seven DeWalt Impact Drivers, three DeWalt combo kits with a total value of $1,149. That theft was reported Dec. 30, 8 p.m.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Patricia Abril, of 450 Windmill Ave., West Babylon; Rose Freitag, 43, of 14 Garfield Pl., Lindenhurst; Francis Buckheit, 65 of 25 Timberpoint Rd., East Islip; Jose Fuentes, 58, of 24 Rossmore Ave., Central Islip; Yerling Hurtadoperez, 19, of 42 Park Ave., Bay Shore; Jose Avelar, 46, of 2 Winnie La., Brentwood; Ivan Luna Silva, 34, 34 Great Neck Rd., Copiague; Bianca E. Beriloff, 40, 35 Eagle La., South Farmingdale; Roberto Martinez, 39, 39 Brick Blvd., Central Islip; Thomas Vera, 68, 67 Surf Rd., Lindenhurst; Matthew J. Thomas, 68, of35 Park Ave., Amityville; Luis Garcia Acosta, 53, of 52 Locust Dr., Amityville; Christopher Lape, 55, of 54 Reel St., East Patchogue (drugs); Richard Taliani, 53, of 48 Seaview St., Massapequa; Fernando D. Quiroz-Avilla 22 Francine Ave., Mass -

apequa; Shaun Donovan, 41, of 40 Walnut St., Long Beach.

Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Galina Colasuonno, 32, of 2661 Edison Pl., Bellmore; Luis Hernandez, 34, of 36 State Ave., Wyandanch; Dennis Demaio, 29, of 25 N. Clinton Ave., Bay Shore; Renee Ealey, 48, of 20 Grant Ave., Brentwood; Christopher Gonzalez, 37, of 200 Wireless Blvd., Hauppauge.

Gang Assault: Sergio Celestin, 38, of 9243 245 St., Floral Park.

Petit Larceny: Toi C. Patterson, 51, of 50 Grand Ave., Bellmore (also charged with resisting arrest and criminal possession of a controlled substance); Michelle A. Smith, 66, of 65 Albin Ave., West Babylon; Brian P. Friedricks, 34 of 33 Hunt La., Levittown, Vanessa Vetrone, 32, of 1 Tanner Lane, Levittown; Mirella Diaz Lopez, 22, of 587 Freeman Ave., Brentwood; Evelin Salfadorgarcia, 22, of 113 Barber St., Brentwood; Isaac Flores, 32, of 31 10th St., Long Island City (also charged with resisting arrest, grand larceny, criminal mischief and unlawfully fleeing police in a motor vehicle)

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

New restaurant set to open

Continued from Page 1

lage recently:

•gave permission to the Amityville Little League to use.

Village Hall lobby for registration on Sat. 2-8, 9 a.m., to noon.

•announced that the Village election will be held Tues.,March 18 and the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at eight polling places as follows:

•For election districts 7th, 8th and 9th, and 63rd, the Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser in the rear.

•For election districts 17th, 26th, 117th and 112nd, Amityville Memorial High School Gym, Merrick Road, rear entrance.

The next Amityville Village Board meeting will be held on Mon., Jan. 27, 7 p.m., Village Hall, third floor, Walter J. Saxton Court Room.

is looking for...

EDITOR/REPORTER

Local veteran Chuck Vinciulla receives Suffolk County honors

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

who have significantly contributed to their communities and the nation.

“When the idea of selecting a Veteran of the Year for our district came up, Chuck Vinciulla immediately came to mind,” said Richberg. “Chuck truly embodies the spirit of our armed forces and goes above and beyond supporting his fellow veterans. If Chuck hears a veteran is ill, he makes a personal call. If he finds out someone passed away, he contacts the family with condolences. Chuck’s outreach is enough for a full-time schedule, but he somehow gets it all done while still working a full week at his own cigar shop in Massapequa. Veterans look out for one another, and Chuck is just one example of Suffolk County’s incredi -

ble veteran community.”

As commander of Amityville VFW Post 7223, Vinciulla has rejuvenated the post, bringing in newer, younger members, assisting families of veterans who have died, and even overseeing the renovation of the post’s building.

He spends his time assisting other veterans: driving them to appointments, bringing them food, and two to three times a week, he stops by the Massapequa Center Rehabilitation & Nursing facility in Amityville to lift spirits.

Vinciulla saw combat as a Navy Corpsman attached to the U.S. Marines, serving two tours of duty during the Vietnam War, and served for 38 years, including stints in the Navy reserves.

Looking to help a great cause? Why not wing it?

A Wing Eating Challenge for charity will be taking place on Sun., Feb. 2 at the Huntington Moose Lodge. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the WingOff will begin at 2:30 p.m.

ment camp programs for children coping with the death of a parent and/ or sibling.

Trophies will be awarded, and the event will also include a 50/50 raffle, raffle baskets and Lotto-Pop.

The registration deadline is Wed., Jan. 29. To register or donate, visit campgoodmourning.org/events.

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

There must be 2 Wing-eaters per team and the cost is $35. There is a minimum of 4 pledgers per wing-eater and a minimum of $25 donation per pledge. All pledges must be in before the event. Proceeds will benefit Camp Good Mourning, a Long Island-based nonprofit that provides free bereave -

The Huntington Moose Lodge is located at 631 Pulaski Rd., Greenlawn. For more information, please call (631) 772-9115.

The Amityville Herald is happy to assist local organizations by publishing their events and news. Items should be sent to us at Amityville Herald, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City N.Y., 11530. If you have questions or want more information, call us at 516-5694000, ext. 39

■ WEB SITE: www.amityvillerecord.com / www.liherald.com/Amityville

■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: cjames@liherald.com

Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com

■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com

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Carolyn James/Herald

Mesita restaurant in Amityville is set to open next month.

Firefighters in Babylon Town battle three blazes, one fatal

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

A house fire in Lindenhurst left one woman dead and two men fighting for their lives on Thursday, Jan. 9.

Another fire in Copiague the day before led to the safe evacuation of a day care.

The Lindenhurst fire, which authorities say may have been exacerbated by freezing temperatures and high winds, broke out around 11 p.m. at 8 Storz Place.

The Copiague Fire Department responded to the scene and pronounced the woman dead. Police have not yet identified any of the victims,

but an autopsy will be conducted to determine the woman’s cause of death.

In addition, two Suffolk County police officers suffered smoke inhalation and were treated at the scene and released.

Neighbors expressed shock, reporting that the fire spread quickly, engulfing the home. They said the family had lived in the house for years.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Suffolk County Homicide Squad at (631) 852-6392 or the Arson Section at (631) 852-6024.

In the second incident, the North Lindenhurst Fire Department responded to a house fire at 51st Street around 9:40 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan.

8. Firefighters arrived to find the twostory house burning on the first floor. Authorities later confirmed that the home was being used as a daycare, Mama Rutty’s Day Care Inc. Several adults and children were inside at the time, but all were evacuated safely.

Fire departments from Lindenhurst, Copiague, and West Babylon, as well as the East Farmingdale Fire Company, assisted with the response. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Copiague firefighters were also called to a house fire on 26th Street

early Thursday, Jan. 9, at about 2:45 a.m. When they arrived, the two-story home was engulfed in flames, with high winds intensifying the blaze. Two occupants were inside at the time but were safely evacuated and transported to a local hospital by ambulance.

The fire, which spread from the basement to the second floor, caused the upper level to collapse. Firefighters had already evacuated the home because deteriorating conditions. The fire was declared under control at 4: 35 a.m. The cause is still under investigation.

Copiague fire on 26th Street. Photo/Paul Mazza

North Lindenhurst fire. Photo/Paul Mazza

Amityville starts 4-1 in league play

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

After an impressive coaching career spanning multiple roles, Jack Agostino is now in his 30th year as head coach for Amityville boys’ basketball.

Agostino’s coaching career took a notable turn when he served as the associate head coach at North Carolina A&T in 2017. Following a two-year stint at Bay Shore, he returned to Amityville.

After nine games this season, the Warriors find themselves with a 5-4 record, including 4-1 in league play, thanks to wins over Riverhead, East Hampton, Harborfields, Rocky Point, and Westhampton.

The Warriors have bought in to Agostino’s vision, and several key players have been standing out. Among them is Amir Dickerson, a 6-foot-3 junior averaging 23.2 points per game. “He has shown tremendous improvement since his sophomore year,” said Agostino. “His growth has been crucial for the team’s success because his ability to both defend and score adds an extra dimension to the squad.”

Another Agostino relies on heavily is Taki Mason, who he calls the “heart and soul” of the team. “We usually have Mason defending the opposing team’s best player,” said Agostino. “He really is a coach’s dream type of player.” Mason also has played a big role on offense as he led all Warriors in scoring with 20 points in their win over Westhampton.

DaJon Clinton, a senior who also plays football, is another standout. Known for his toughness. He’s the quarterback of the defense,” Agostino said. “His ability to organize and motivate the team on that end of the floor goes a long way.” Clinton’s season got off to a great start, as he scored 16 points in the Warriors’ opening day win over Riverhead.

Junior forward Wes Flythe, who moved up from JV, has also been a pleasant surprise. “Wes put in significant work during the offseason,” said Agostino. “His development has been one of the more encouraging stories for us this season.” One of his better games came against Harborfields, when he scored 9 points to go along with 7 rebounds.

In the backcourt, Allen Dotson-Isa-

HERALD SPORTS Babylon determined to make another run

Ron Manfredi/Herald

Junior Amir Dickerson is a vital piece to Amityville’s success and averaged 23.2 points over its first nine games.

bell, a sophomore point guard, has been making significant strides. “His confidence and improvement as a leader on the floor make him one to watch in the future,” Agostino said.

Amityville also has a talented group of freshmen who have been swinging between the varsity and JV levels to gain more playing time. One of those, Isaiah Nixon, is already showing himself to be one of the best shooters on the team.

“He has a great attitude and work ethic,” Agostino said. “Both are traits that can be essential for his development.”

With all the talent on the roster, expectations remain sky-high. But Agostino remains focused on the present, reminding his players to concentrate on each game and each possession.

“We try not to think about the playoffs,” he said. “It’s hard for the players to think that way, so I just have to keep reminding them to focus on what’s right in front of them.”

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

In his 32nd year coaching Babylon girls’ basketball, Christopher Ryan has seen it all. Success, heartache, and growth. This season, his team is determined to bounce back after a tough loss in the county championship last winter.

With a roster filled with veterans, including four seniors who are also captains, Ryan knows the stakes are high.

“Motivation is key,” Ryan said. “Our goal is to get back to where we were, block out all the outside noise, and focus on what we can control. Each rep, each practice, each game is all about making it better than the last.”

Well, the Panthers have certainly come out of the gate strong as they have won eight of their first nine games, including a 4-1 record against league rivals.

The senior captains include Gia Randazzo, who has been a standout, earning recognition as a top-100 player, Emily Love, Maddie Beckemeyer, and Riley Altman. “Their leadership, both on and off the court, has helped guide the team through the ups and downs,” Ryan said.

Junior center, Peyton Logue-Boyd, earned All-Conference honors last season. “She brings an unmatched work ethic and competitive spirit,” said Ryan. In the Panthers most recent win, a 3817 victory over Eastport-South Manor, Logue-Boyd scored 6 points and had 11 rebounds.

Despite all the veteran leadership Babylon has to offer, it’s been the new addition of eighth-grader Morgan Fiedler that has truly energized the team.

“As starting point guard, Morgan has made an immediate impact with her poise and high basketball IQ,” Ryan said. “For someone so young, Morgan plays with a level of maturity far beyond her years. She’s earned my trust as the leader on the floor.”

In a Dec. 6 45-31 victory over Smithtown East, she exploded for 25 points, a performance that left everyone in awe. She currently averages a team best 14.6 points per game.

Ryan, always a passionate coach, has made a deliberate shift in his approach. “The girls are tough on themselves, so I’m trying to celebrate the little things more,”

Eighth-grade

he said. “They’re still kids, and they need that positive reinforcement.”

With a mix of experienced seniors and promising underclassmen, this team has the tools to make another deep run. The loss in the county chip still stings, but Ryan believes it’s fueled their hunger to improve. “The journey is just as important as the destination,” he said. “And with this group, I’m confident we’ll go far.”

With every game, Ryan and the Panthers are building toward something special. The chemistry is undeniable, the potential is sky-high, and they are more determined than ever to make a statement and another deep postseason run.

The Panthers have nine games in January, looking to continue their winning ways in League VII with Center Moriches and Mattituck both one game in the rearview mirror with 4-2 records. Mattituck handed Babylon its lone league loss to date and the Panthers host the rematch Jan. 21 at 6:15 p.m.

Erik Lee/Herald

point guard Morgan Fiedler, left, has made an immediate impact at both ends of the floor for the Panthers.

Faith-based education

Students put moral values to work in their lives every day

Strong spiritual guidance is an essential part of daily activities at Long Island’s Catholic schools, creating a special sense of community among children, families, teachers, and the local parish, which reinforces moral values and an abiding respect for others. Resourceful instructors use powerful spiritual teachings and realworld experiences to bring these values to life for children, while our smaller classes allow for more personalized and productive interaction between students and teachers.

Applying strong values in many selfless ways Catholic school students apply the moral and spiritual lessons they learn in the real world by participating in charitable community initiatives throughout the year and by responding every day to others in a respectful and helpful manner. This spirit of caring and community in our students helps to give them the enduring moral foundation to become active, contributing members of society.

Through faith we grow

A strong Catholic identity as taught in Long Island’s Catholic schools matters. These schools are uniquely empowered to help children in some very important ways. Catholic schools:

√ Help socialize children in a positive way.

√ Reinforce the positive values that you live in your family.

√ Reassure children that they are safe and loved, and that God

Greybarn Amityville donates to 3 local groups to mark their holiday season of giving

The Greybarn Amityville community donated a total of $3,500 this holiday season to local organizations, including $2,000 to Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, $500 to Circle of Love Ministry, and $1,000 to the Suffolk County Police Department Veterans Association.

Opened in 2016 and operated by Rechler Equity Partners, Greybarn Amityville is a luxury rental community designed to foster a sense of connection among its residents and the broader Long Island area.

“Greybarn Amityville is always looking for ways to have a positive impact on our surrounding communities,” said Michael Loeffler, Community Director of Greybarn Amityville. “We’re proud to contribute

to the Bethel AME Church, The Circle of Love Ministry, and the Suffolk County Police Department Veterans Association this holiday season, and know these organizations will have a profound impact on those who need it most.”

The Bethel AME Church offers social services and spiritual guidance, while the Circle of Love Ministry provides essential support like food, clothing, and financial aid to those in need. The Suffolk County Police Department Veterans Association focuses on assisting veterans and their families.

For more information about Greybarn Long Island, visit greybarn-li. com , email info@greybarn-li.com, or call (631) 414-8500.

Nominations are now open for Distinguished Resident Award

The Village of Amityville is accepting nominations for its Distinguished Resident Award, which recognizes a resident or long-time business owner for their dedication and commitment that resulted in significant contributions to enhancing the quality of life, improving the performance of government, enriching the spiritual or cultural environment, or otherwise benefiting the village.

Established in 2019, the award has been given in the past to such prominent residents as Bill Lauder, Seth Purdy, Ellen and Vincent Ricciuti, Ken Lang, Martha Peterson, Diane Apgar and Joseph Guidice, Anne Crocitto and

Richard Meyer.

The deadline for nominations is February 1. Nominees must have lived in the Village or owned a business in the Village for a minimum of 10 years.

To submit an entry for consideration, complete the application found on the Village website, Amityville.com. A committee will review the submissions for such criteria as good citizenship, leadership in civic, social, religious, and professional activities, and community service.

Award presentation takes place on Sunday, March 2 at the Mayor’s Social at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club.

OBITUARY

Ann Bonita Caupain, 83, longtime Amityville resident and devoted nurse

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.

Ann Bonita Caupain, a longtime Amityville resident and dedicated nurse who served at several local hospitals, died on July 1, 2024, at the age of 83.

Born March 30, 1941, in Brooklyn to Robert Q. Caupain and Lucille Robinson Caupain, Ms. Caupain was the eldest of two children. The family later moved to Amityville, where her father built the home in which she lived for the remainder of her life. The house, which has been home to five generations, remains in the family today.

Ms. Caupain graduated from Amityville High School in June 1959 and went on to attend Morgan State University, where she studied Liberal Arts. Afterward, she worked at Northrop Grumman’s Aerospace division before pursuing a career in nursing.

Her daughter, Linda White, recalled that her mother had an exceptional ability to explore different careers and take on numerous roles. “She had a gift for career exploration and the many talents of multitasking,” White said. “She wasn’t limited by what she dreamed of, but rather pur-

Ann Bonita Caupain

Claudia Mazzola, Rechler Equity Partners Director of Community Relations, with members of the Suffolk County Police Department

Ann Bonita Caupain, 83, Amityville resident and nurse

sued what she was passionate about.”

In addition to her work at Northrop Grumman, Ms. Caupain held various positions, including working as a cashier at the local A&P grocery store in Amityville. Her career in nursing spanned several hospitals, including Lakeside Hospital in Copiague, Massapequa General Hospital and Central General Hospital in Plainview. She also worked as an EKG and lab technician at Brunswick Hospital in Amityville. She later became a registered and certified nursing assistant. Her daughter described Central General as her “second home.”

Beyond nursing, Ms. Caupain opened “Ann’s Day Care” in her home, which was affectionately renamed “Grandma Ann’s Daycare” by the children who attended.

the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, completing its Leadership and Training program. She later joined The United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Stennis Division CVN 74, where she earned the Unit Commendation Star 1, multiple officer ribbons, and the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade in January 2002. In October 2002, she was honored with the Exceptional Service Award.

children said that if anyone ever needed a place to stay or help getting to the hospital, it was their mom who would come through for no one could care for them like ‘Gramz.’

In her free time, Ms. Caupain enjoyed her house plants, and crabbing, which was a tradition passed down from her father. She frequently took daycare children on field trips to teach them how to crab by the water. She also had a deep love for her fourlegged companion, Nyla, and enjoyed trips to Wildwood, New Jersey, where she could visit the amusement park, enjoy curly fries, and try her luck at the coin casinos.

“She taught and prepared me for life and will always be my best friend, my heartbeat, my rock, my mom,” said Linda.

“She loved kids and loved to cook for everybody,” said her daughter, Wanda Caupain. “And the more children she had, the happier her heart was.”

Above all, Ms. Caupain’s family and the people she cared for in her community were the center of her life. Her children shared that their mother would occasionally bring hospital residents from her work home to offer them a taste of family life, and said that she gave so much of herself. “She would invite perfect strangers in for a meal, and the grandchildren always knew that Grandma’s house was always open,” said Linda.

In a joint message, her grandchildren stated: “Grams, you left a big hole in everyone’s life but we carry on each day, knowing you’re still watching over us.”

Ms. Caupain reposed at Powell Funeral Home in Amityville on July 14, 2024. A service followed at the Prayer Tabernacle C.O.G.I.C on July 15, officiated by Bishop Walter C. Willie Jr. and Pastor Jerry L. Turner of Salem Baptist Church. She was interred at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Farmingdale. Continued from page 8

Her son, Allen Robinson, also reflected on his mom always being there for her children and grandchildren. “After a day of fishing with my son Bryce, I will miss the front yard fish fries and Mom’s presence while I coached the Copiague Eagles youth football games,” he said.

Ms. Caupain was also deeply involved in the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of

Ms. Caupain’s impact on the community extended beyond her family and her children stated that she raised a lot of the children in the community and was someone who would give you the shirt off her back in a heartbeat.

Ms. Caupain was also known for delivering multiple children in the surrounding community, including her first granddaughter, Danielle, at home, and her

Ms. Caupain is predeceased by her par-

ents, Robert and Lucille Caupain, and her grandson, Brian Green. She is survived by her children: Wanda Caupain of Massapequa, Linda White of Amityville, and Allen Robinson and his wife, Kim, of Massapequa. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Danielle N. Green, Keith B. Green Jr. (Bud) and Jahlil, Bryce, Peyton and Ayva Robinson, and great grandchildren Aiyana, Briani, Savannah and Grayson Green and Yasir B. Jones (Yaya), as well as her four-legged companion daughter Nyla and a host of family, friends and the community she loved.

15, 2025

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at: Amityville Herald Record Newspaper, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or may call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329 We will also consider publishing clear black and white or color photos with the articles.

Local Worship Schedules and Services

ST. PAUL’S

LUTHERAN CHURCH

147 Park Ave., Amityville Office Tel. 631-264-0763

Rev. Thomas W. Cusanelli

WORSHIP SERVICES: Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Worship 7:30 p.m.

Accessible to the Physically Challenged “The Friendly Church” www.stpaulsamityville.com

Broadway, Amityville

Office: 631-264-0152

The Rev. Calvin Collins, Pastor

ST. MARY’S CHURCH

175 Broadway, Amityville 631-264-0004

Fr. Randolph Jon Geminder, Rector www.facebook.com/ StMarysAmityville

Sunday: Matins 7:30 am Low Mass: 8:00 am Sung Mass 10:00 am (With Nursery & Church School) Tuesday thru Saturday Mass 9:00am Tuesday thru Friday: Evening Prayer: 4:30 pm Confession: First Fridays 5 pm

30 Locust Ave., Amityville 631-789-2569

Rev. Akio Iyoda, Pastor SUNDAY

Worship Service • 11:00 am “Here you are a stranger but once” Handicapped Accessible

• ROMAN CATHOLIC •

37 Union Ave. Amityville, NY 11701 • 631-264-0124

Rev. Gerard Gordon Pastor Masses : Saturday 5:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:00 Noon, and 5:00 pm Church: www.stmartinamityville.com School: www.smtschool.org

A winter wonderland warmed this elementary school

The gymnasium at Great Neck Road Elementary School in the Copiague School District had a makeover in mid-December, transforming into a winter wonderland. During their physical education classes, students stepped into a snowy adventure filled with winter-themed activities. The event was organized by physical education teachers Rachel Cone and Timothy Mattiace.

Stations were set up around the room for students to rotate through the various activities. In small groups, they played hockey, went ice skating on small slider pads, worked together to complete a winterthemed puzzle and tossed darts at the Grinch. Students also went bobsledding on scooters, competed in holiday bowling and tossed rings at a Santa cone.

Photos courtesy/Copiague School District

Great Neck Road Elementary students enjoyed the flurry of winter activities during their physical education classes.

The hidden companions of the Carter White House: Grits, Misty, and the Mysterious Afghan Hound

When President Jimmy Carter passed away last month at age 100, the world lost an inspirational humanitarian. Tributes have focused on his deep faith, his service to those in need, particularly through Habitat for Humanity, and his achievements in international diplomacy.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

Yet little has been written about the family pets that shared the White House with the Carters from 1977 to 1981. That, I believe, is my task. While stories exist about the Carters’ two pets—Grits, a Border Collie mix, and Misty Marlarky Ying Yang, a Siamese cat—another pet, a mysterious Afghan Hound named Lewis Brown, has piqued my curiosity. Despite having owned Afghan Hounds for over 40 years, I had never heard mention of Lewis Brown.

Grits, the Carter Family Border Collie Mix

Amy Carter was nine when her family moved from Georgia to Washington, D.C. While Amy had attended public school in Georgia, Rosalynn Carter chose Thaddeus Stevens School, a small D.C. public school, for her daughter. Amy would be the first child of an incumbent president to attend public school since Quentin Roosevelt, son of Theodore Roosevelt.

Grits, the Border Collie mix, was a gift from Amy’s teacher. Amy had visited her new school, and to ease the transition, her teacher, Verona Meeder, brought a puppy—born the night Jimmy Carter won the election—along with her family to the White House.

Some say the puppy was named Grits to honor the Carters’ Southern roots, while others suggest the name “Grits and Fritz” referenced Carter’s campaign slogan, with running mate Walter “Fritz” Mondale. The New York Times even welcomed Grits to the White House, and the dog became a minor celebrity. An animal organization dubbed Grits “First Canine,” while Mondale’s blind Collie, Bonnie, was named “Vice Canine.”

The president built a doghouse for Grits in the White House basement, which would later become the Situation Room. This was before Carter’s carpentry expertise led to his work with Habitat for Humanity.

Grits, a handsome dog, didn’t stay long at the White House. Eventually, he returned to live with the Meeder family, likely because he wasn’t fully housebroken. Rosalynn Carter tactfully explained that Amy was at summer camp and didn’t have time for the dog, and the Meeder family was eager to welcome Grits back.

Misty Marlarky Ying Yang, Amy’s Siamese Cat

The Carters also brought Amy’s Siamese cat, Misty Marlarky Ying Yang, to the White House. The cat’s full name was so unusual that it inspired a song. Hungarian-American guitarist Gabor Szabo composed the instrumental “Misty Malarky Ying Yang,” which appeared on his 1977 album Faces. Misty was the last cat to live in the White House until the Clintons’ Socks moved in.

Despite his name, Misty was male. As a typical Siamese, he was active, playful, and intelligent—but there is no mention of him being particularly vocal, which is typical for the breed. Misty often meowed during Amy’s violin practice, leading some to joke that he might have been a music critic. He also found the flashbulbs at state dinners frightening, but was calm enough to pose for photographs, often sitting contentedly on Amy’s lap.

Misty didn’t roam freely around the White House, but he was frequently invited into the kitchen for steak tidbits. He also stood by his owner’s side during a difficult moment, sitting on Amy’s lap during an interview after her brief arrest for civil disobedience as a teenager.

The Mysterious Afghan Hound, Lewis Brown

Then there’s the elusive Afghan Hound, Lewis Brown. This breed and Siamese cats are known to get along well, and I will connect with both Afghan Hound enthusiasts and the Carter Presidential Library to try to learn more. If a photo of Lewis Brown exists, I’m determined to sniff it out.

The joy of giving at Susan E. Wiley Elementary in Copiague

There was plenty to be thankful for this holiday season, according to second graders at Susan E. Wiley Elementary School in the Copiague School District. Students read the book “The Pleasure of Giving” and completed writing activi-

ties about gifts they could give from the heart. Their writing discussed ways to help those less fortunate throughout the holiday season and the students’ work was put on display to inspire others in the joy of giving.

WI Class of 75 holding reunion

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, please visit/join the organization’s Facebook page: West Islip High School Class of 1975 Or call leave 516-456-3207 and leave a message.

The Town of Babylon’s 2025 Property Tax Exemption Booklet available

The Town of Babylon’s 2025 Tax Exemption Booklet, prepared by the Department of Assessment, is a basic look at the most popular real property tax exemptions available to homeowners. The booklet is free and is designed to illustrate the requirements

for each exemption offered by the Town of Babylon. For more information on real property tax exemptions go online to the town’s website https://shorturl.at/Y2yoW For more information call the town at (631) 957-3000.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Pres. Jimmy Carter with Grits and his trainer. (White House Historical Assoc.)

Amy Carter holds Misty Malarky Ying Yang, her Siamese cat. (Carter Library)

Officials address the State of the Region

By JEFFREY BESSEN, CAROLYN JAMES & MOHAMMAD RAFIQ

Special to the Herald

U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer began with a joke. Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association, moderated a discussion among Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Richard Schaffer, president of the Long Island Supervisors Association. Gov. Kathy Hochul spoke about having an impact.

The ballroom at the Crest Hollow Country Club, in Woodbury, was filled with many appointed and elected government officials, along with many more movers and shakers, on Jan. 10 for the LIA’s annual State of the Region Breakfast.

This is a portion of what the elected leaders had to say.

Sen. Chuck Schumer

The former U.S. Senate majority leader, now the minority leader, began the morning with joke. The punch line of a tale about a woman being sentenced to four nights in jail for stealing a can of four peaches is her husband interrupting the proceeds by shouting, “She also stole a can of peas!”

The room filled with laughter, and then Schumer turned serious on several topics, including his hard work to attain his position in the Senate. He noted that despite the partisanship in Washington, Long Island elected leaders from both political parties are working together to bring federal money to the region.

“I’ll keep fighting for Long Island,” Schumer said, noting a $400 million Federal Emergency Management Agency grant for the Long Island Power Authority to strengthen the electrical power infrastructure.

Schumer said he was committed to reinstituting the deduction for state and local taxes, as should the entire state congressional delegation.

“We should be united in doing that, so that our people will stay here, new people will want to come here,” he said. “There is no reason for any member of the New York delegation shouldsettle for anything less than the full restitution of SALT with no cap.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul

The governor, who traveled to the event on the Long Island Rail Road, noted that the state would be investing $1.5 billion in the LIRR. The state is also allocating over $51 million for public safety on Long Island.

“We have to have the courage and vision to do more,” Hochul said of the issue of affordable housing.

She acknowledged the impact of climate change, from the wildfires in California to the fires in upstate New York in November, and from flooding in the Hudson Valley in July to flooding in Suffolk County in August.

“So, we have to be ready for this,” Hochul said. “We are the first genera-

tion to feel the ill effects of climate change, and we’re the last generation that can do something about it.”

She advocated for offshore wind power generation, saying it’s the way to go.

She also said she was motivated to help businesses big and small, because of the economic hard times she saw growing up. “No large business ever started as a large business — they all started small,” Hochul said, noting her mother’s small business to help displaced homemakers.

Since she became governor, she said, 53,000 jobs have been created on Long Island, and that in 2023 alone, 47,000 new businesses started here.

County Executive Bruce Blakeman

Blakeman touted his record as county executive.

“Nassau County was named by U.S. News & World Report as the safest county of all the United States of America,” he said, crediting officers of the county Police Department. “They do an outstanding job,” he said. “The men and women work very, very hard to keep us all safe.”

On the proposed Sands casino, Blakeman said the process is progressing, and he believes the county has the best application.

“I think it will generate a lot of jobs — we’re talking about potentially $5 billion in construction jobs,” he said. “We’re talking about revenue that will be spread out in various communities. I believe that, hopefully, we can get a favorable decision from the licensing board, and we’ll go full speed ahead.”

On affordable housing, Blakeman said, “We have 80-year-old sewers that need to be revitalized … and we need at least $100 million over the next five years to do that.”

County Executive Ed Romaine Romaine declared that “Amtrak is coming to Ronkonkoma,” and spoke about affordable housing. Referring to the state’s push to bring development to Nassau and Suffolk counties, Romaine said he agreed that Long Island would benefit from meeting the housing needs of lower-income residents, senior citizens and young people.

He quickly added a caveat, however.

“We also need the infrastructure,

including sewers, to support these projects,” Romaine said, noting that there are 3,400 projects under consideration in Suffolk that can’t be built because the county doesn’t have the sewer capacity — and that is the major obstacle for almost every major project undertaken on Long Island.

Increasing affordable housing on Long Island, once a local and regional issue, is front and center in Albany, as the state — dangling lots of state dollars — urges counties, towns and villages to embrace its new housing initiative. He added that the measure has been greeted with mixed reviews, as local officials remain concerned that opting into the state program will undercut local controls like planning and zoning codes.

Romaine was visibly angry about the taxes that Suffolk residents pay on their home electric and heating bills. He promised to suspend those taxes, as well as the gasoline tax.

“We should make it more affordable for the average person to live here,” he said. If not, people will move off Long Island “like the rest of the state. (People) don’t just vote at the ballot box; they vote with their feet. New York lost (more) people than any other state. That’s a wake-up call.

Supervisor Richard Schaffer

Schaffer, the Town of Babylon supervisor and the Suffolk County Democratic chairman, noted his beginnings in the County Legislature, where he worked across the aisle in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

“We’re not elected to come here and put on a show to make it into Newsday or make it onto News12,” Schaffer said. “We’re here to get things done.” He noted that that is his philosophy, and Romaine’s thinking as well.

“The stars have aligned, and not only do we have people who have known each other for a very long time, but also key, trust each other in order to do the right thing,” Schaffer added of his relationships with Romaine and Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

LIA President and CEO Matt Cohen, far right, moderated the panel discussion, which included Long Island Supervisors Association

President Richard Schaffer, far left, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer noted that restoring the deduction for state and local taxes was a priority.

Gov. Kathy Hochul touched on a number of topics at the State of the Region event at the Crest Hollow Country Club.

STEPPING OUT

Savor the moment in your cozy kitchen

Let those chef skills take center stage on wintry day

By Karen Bloom

Settle in for some comfy winter nesting during these frigid days. And, of course, it’s certainly time to refocus on a healthier eating now that we’re finished with those weeks of festive over-indulgence.

January is the ideal time to reset and get into the kitchen and work on some “Top Chef” skills. It’s not that difficult with some great comforting — healthy — foods to warm the heart and soul.

Experiment with new culinary creations that incorporate bold flavors for delicious results. Nothing pleases the senses quite like a hearty dish on a cold evening. Try adding these recipes to your repertoire.

Country Stew

A classic stick-to-your-ribs stew is the ideal project for a chilly weekend. A terrific winter warmer-upper, serve with a hearty bread or corn bread.

• 5 pounds bone-in short ribs, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 2 cups water

• 1 1/3 cups Zinfandel wine

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 2 beef bouillon cubes

• 6 large potatoes, washed, peeled and quartered

• 1/2 pound small fresh mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed

• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen whole green beans

• 1 can (16 ounces) peeled whole tomatoes, undrained

Dredge ribs in flour to coat; reserve leftover flour. Heat oil in 8-quart Dutch oven on moderate heat. Add half of ribs and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove ribs. Repeat instructions for remaining ribs.Stir in the reserved flour. While stirring, add 1 cup water and wine and stir until thickened.Return ribs to the pan. Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper and bouillon and bring to a boil. Cover and lower heat to simmer for about 1 hour, or until ribs are tender. Remove ribs with slotted spoon and cover with foil to keep warm. Add potatoes, mushrooms and beans. Simmer 20 to 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add ribs and tomatoes with liquid, and heat through. Use slotted spoon to remove meat and vegetables to large serving platter. Remove gravy to serving container and serve with ribs. Makes 6 servings.

Campanelle with Prosciutto and Peas

Settle in with a warming, welcoming bowl of pasta, especially tasty on a winter’s niight.

• 12 ounces uncooked campanelle pasta

• 1 tablespoon Bertolli Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

• 1 large shallot, finely chopped

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto

• Alfredo sauce

• 4 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded

• 6 eggs

Dave Atell

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

In pot of salted water, cook pasta 2 minutes less than directed on package. Drain pasta.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and shallots. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add wine; cook 3-4 minutes, or until most liquid has evaporated. Stir in peas, prosciutto, Alfredo sauce and cheese. Add pasta; toss gently. Cook and stir 1-2 minutes to coat pasta with sauce.

In saucepan, bring water to boil and add eggs. Cook 6 minutes. Transfer eggs to ice water and cool before peeling.

Top each serving with soft-set egg and black pepper.

Note: Gouda or Gruyere can be substituted for Fontina. Unpeeled, cooked eggs can be stored in refrigerator up to one week.

Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 stick butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan

• Pasta cooking water, as needed

In a saucepan or skillet, warm the butter and cream. Season with salt and pepper. Add the Parmesan and stir until melted.

Toss to combine, thinning with pasta water if necessary.

Lentil, Kale and Sausage Soup

A rustic soup loaded with lentils and kale can be flavorful centerpiece to healthy, satisfying meal. This filling soup is packed with vegetables and has a hint of heat from the sausage, giving it a zesty warm, spicy flavor.

• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 8 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed, or sausage of your choice

• 2 celery stalks (with leafy tops), thinly sliced

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced medium

• 3/4 cup-1 cup dried lentils

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 1/2 bunches (about 3/4 pound) kale, preferably Tuscan, stems removed, torn into bite-size pieces

• Coarse salt and ground pepper

• 2 teaspoons red-wine vinegar

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add celery and onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add lentils, broth, and 1/2 cup water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a rapid simmer, partially cover, and cook until lentils and vegetables are tender, 25 minutes.

Add kale and season with salt. Return soup to a rapid simmer, cover, and cook until kale wilts, about 5 minutes. Remove soup from heat, stir in vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve this soup in individual bowls with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese on top and a crusty slice of bread to sop up the broth at the bottom of the bowl.

Note: Spinach or chard can be substitute for the kale in this recipe. The soup can be enhanced by adding a couple of thyme or rosemary sprigs as it simmers. If it’s too thick to your liking, more broth can be added.

Start the New Year off with some laughs from one of stand-up comedy’s best. An all-time-great joke writer, named one of the “25 Funniest People in America” by Entertainment Weekly, Dave Atell is most at home in comedy clubs. He built a loyal following by barnstorming the country with his brand of off-color “very adult” humor, and his audiences got even bigger after his cult-favorite travel show, “Insomniac.” Atell continues to be a presence on TV — including his hit Netflix specials “Hot Cross Buns” and “Bumping Mics” — while constantly writing new material and taking it on the road. Beginning his comedy career in the early ‘90s, Attell ascended through New York’s stand-up ranks alongside the likes of Louis C.K. and Jon Stewart. After a brief stint writing for SNL, Attell branched out on his own. When not on the road, Attell makes regular appearances at the Comedy Cellar in New York City. Sunday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

‘Majestic Melodies’

Old Westbury Gardens maybe closed for the season yet everyone is invited to escape winter’s chill with a special musical interlude in Westbury House’s delightful music room.“Majestic Melodies: An Evening of Piano and Song” pairs the dazzling vocals of Broadway’s Nathaniel Hackmann with the virtuosic talent of pianist Philip Edward Fisher. Hackmann, fresh off his celebrated role as Biff Tannen in “Back to the Future: The Musical,” which just finished its Broadway run, is a powerhouse performer. His commanding stage presence thrills audiences both on Broadway and in concert halls worldwide. He’s joined by Fisher, an accomplished pianist praised for his refined style and exceptional versatility.

Saturday, Jan. 18, 4 p.m. $50; OWG members receive 20 percent discount. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury. For more information and tickets, visit oldwestburygardens.org.

Country Stew Campanelle with Prosciutto and Peas Lentil, Kale and Sausage Soup

THE Your Neighborhood

Acrobats of Cirque-tacular

See a new take on circus-style thrills when the Acrobats of Cirque-tacular visits the Landmark stage, Saturday, Jan. 25 , at 2 p.m. Cirque-tacular features one dazzling circus feat after another in a highenergy, family-friendly flurry of fun. Indulge your curiosity and celebrate your senses as this troupe of acrobats, aerialists and circus specialty artists bend, twist, flip, and fly into everyone’ hearts. Repeatedly praised by critics, for their “mind-boggling artistry and athleticism” and their “great feats of daring at the extreme edges of human capability,” their acts have reached millions live and millions more through appearances on most major television networks. Cirque-tacular’s performers — an ever-changing cast of elite aerialists, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, specialty acts and world-record holders from Broadway and Las Vegas stages — are hailed as “mesmerizing”, “incredible”, and “truly impressive.” The Acrobats of Cirque-tacular bound from one breathtaking, death-defying feat of acrobatic daredevilry to another. Musclepopping, mind-boggling artistry and athleticism charm and awe the audience.

The performers are revered as cuttingedge leaders of the new American vaudeville movement. Cirque-tacular’s entertainers have shared the stage with a who’s who of A-list celebrities. They leave no stone unturned to test the limits of human mind and body. The fun of their show is doubled with explosive music that complements the performance and act. $38. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Busted Snowman canvas craft

Join Rinette at Copiague Memorial Public Library, Thursday, Jan. 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m., to create a unique winter display using a canvas, recycled greeting cards and your imagination. Bring a glue gun, flat brush, ruler, x-acto knife or scissors. This program is for adults. To register and for more information, call (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.

SINGO Bingo

Enjoy Bingo with an added musical twist at Copiague Memorial Public Library, Saturday, Jan. 18. Listen to the music of the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and’ 80s and match the song on your card and yell “BINGO” as soon as you have the right combination. To register and for more information, call (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.

Deep sea exploration

Are you ready to dive into the unknown at The Whaling Museum? Kids and adventurous adults can use a blacklight to hunt for hidden clues about outworldly creatures that dwell in the ocean’s depths in an event “Deep Sea Explorers” throughout January. For more information, more upcoming events, membership and tickets, go to coldspringwhalingmuseum.org or call (631) 367-3418. 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor.

Movie matinee

Come in from the cold for a movie at Copiague Memorial Public Library. See “Twisters,” Wednesday, Jan. 22 , 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and the movie starts at noon. Feel free to bring a beverage and snack. Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Kate Cooper, a former storm chaser lured back to the open plains to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. She crosses paths with Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), the charming and reckless social-media storm chasing superstar. Kate, Tyler and their competing teams find themselves in the paths of multiple storm systems over central Oklahoma.To register and for more information, call (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.

MLK Day of Service Project

Create a custom placemat at Copiague Memorial Public Library, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2-5 p.m. to be distributed to local senior centers and Meals on Wheels for their lunch service. This event is for all ages and registration is not required. For more information, call (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.

Billy Joel Exhibit

extended at LIMEHOF

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame extends the run of the firstever exhibit until the spring dedicated exclusively to hall of fame inductee and legendary Long Island musician Billy Joel. The exclusive exhibit, called, Billy Joel: My Life, A Piano Man’s Journey, spans Joel’s life and career from growing up in Hicksville to his legendary run at Madison Square Garden. It includes over 50 years of Billy Joel’s most cherished items including rare memorabilia, behind-the-scenes video, dozens of awards, rare audio and video recordings, vintage instruments and historic photos, many donated by Billy Joel himself. 97 Main St., Stony Brook. For more information, call (631) 689-5888.

Art Explorations

Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, Jan. 18, noon-3 p.m. Kids and their adult partners talk about and making 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) 484-9337.

Homebuyers

Informational Session

Copiague Memorial Public Library a session for first-time home buyers, Wednesday, Jan. 22 , 6:30-7:30 p.m. Veronica Ferrero from Emigrant Mortgage will review all you need to know from the pre-approval process until the closing of your home. To register and for more information, call (631) 6911111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.

Get your Amityville Flag

Did you know that the Amityville Historical Society, housed in the lauder Museum, has the famous Amityville Flags in stock? Museum is open every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Cost is $65; if you are a member or join the Historical Society, you receive a 10% discount on not only the flags but all items in the gift shop. Stop by the museum at 170 Broadway, Amityville, to purchase one of these flags and tour the Museum. Admission is free. For questions,call (631) 598-1486.

Having an event?

Model Train Show

The TMB Model Train Show features its everexciting show of model trains running in dozens of interesting settings, Saturdays, Jan. 18 and Feb. 8 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sundays, 1-5 p.m., Jan. 19 and Feb. 9, at the Upper Room Church.

With new scenic areas to discover as well as familiar sights and a wide variety of trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains, all set in 6,500 square feet of fun for the entire family. Admission is free. So, mark your calendars now. 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills. For more information go to tmbmodeltrainclub. com.

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.

Art League of Long Island’s 68th Annual Members’ Exhibition

Art League of Long Island presents its 68th Annual Members’ Exhibition, a showcase of the remarkable talents within its vibrant community of artists. The exhibit, hosted in the Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery, features an array of works from painting and ceramics to jewelry and fiber arts. This annual event is a cherished tradition that highlights the diversity and creativity of ALLI’s over 400 memberships. From emerging artists embarking on their creative journey to seasoned professionals, each participant demonstrates the profound artistic spirit that fuels the Art League of Long Island’s mission.

It is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate creativity across mediums and generations. Due to the high volume of submissions, the exhibition is split into two parts, with Part I showcasing artists with last names M-Z and Part II with last names A-L. This format alternates each year, ensuring equal opportunities for members to shine. Part I dates runs through Jan. 24; Part II runs Feb. 1-28. For more information about the exhibition, upcoming events, or how to support the Art League of Long Island, visit .artleagueli.org or call (631) 462-5400. Art League of Long Island, Dix Hills.

St. Martin of Tours religious education classes

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 two-year 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.

One-on-One Medicare counseling and assistance

Copiague Memorial Public Library hosts one-on-one Medicare counseling and assistance, Friday, Jan. 17, 10 a.m.-noon. Register for a 30-minute one-on-one appointment with a Suffolk County Retired Senior Volunteer Program and a volunteer from Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program to answer questions and provide information regarding Medicare health insurance, benefits and savings programs. To register, call Copiague Memorial Public Library at (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.

Herkimer Realty Enterprises II, LLC, Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC). Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/12/2024. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to Westermann Sheehy Samaan & Gillespie LLP, Attention: Leonard M. Ridini, Jr., Esq., 90 Merrick Avenue, Suite 802, East Meadow, NY 11554. 24-567. 12/18, 25, 1/1, 8, 15, 22

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS, INC., MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, MANA SERIES 2007-A3, -againstKAHN GRANT, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on January 7, 2021, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS, INC., MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, MANA SERIES 2007-A3 is the Plaintiff and KAHN GRANT, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on January 29, 2025 at 2:30PM, premises known as 56 EAST SMITH STREET, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100-169.0002.00-051.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE LYING AND BEING AT AMITYVILLE, TOWN OF BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index

Public Notices — Your right to know

No.: 603622/2019. James A. Pascarella, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

24-571. 12/25, 1/1, 8, 15

Notice of the Annual Meeting of Wellwood Cemetery Association, Inc.

The Annual Meeting of the Wellwood Cemetery Association, Inc. (“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 21st day of January 2025 at 2:00 in the afternoon.

Dated December 2024 Anthony Biolsi Secretary 25-200 1/1, 8, 15

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR NOMURA ASSET ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, Plaintiff AGAINST CHRISTINE SPENCE INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF WILLIAM SPENCE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 4, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on January 31, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 41 Madison Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements

erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 164.00, Block 03.00, Lot 049.000. Approximate amount of judgment $639,422.62 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611124/2015. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time. Richard Lavorata Jr., Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 15003253 83441 25-201. 1/1, 8, 15, 22

Legal Notice The Annual Meeting of the MONTEFIORE CEMETERY CORPORATION For the election of Directors and transaction of such other business as may properly come before the meeting will be held at the office of Pryor Cashman 7 Times Square NY, NY 10036 ON THE 27TH DAY OF JANUARY 2025 AT 2:00 P.M. BY Gina Chieffo-Mazzarelli, Corporate Treasurer 25-205. 1/8, 15, 22

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, January 23rd, 2025, to consider the following applications:  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# 101-4-3-3.6.  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 singlefamily 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 25-206 1/8, 15

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

SUFFOLK COUNTY

WEBSTER BANK, N.A., Plaintiff against MICHAEL P. EGAN; MARY E. EGAN, 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 October 30, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 19 Bayside Place, Amityville, NY 11701. District 0101 Sec 012.00 Block 06.00 Lot 027.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of

Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $212,162.41 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 606066/2022.

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules.

The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Joy E. Jorgensen, Esq., Referee File # 23-000928-01 25-207. 1/8, 15, 22, 29

Legal Notice

The Annual Meeting of the Lot Owners of the Amityville Cemetery Association will be held Wednesday February 7, 2025 at 4:45 P .M. at the office of the Association, 85 Broadway Suite B, Amityville, NY 11701 for the purpose of electing three Trustees for a period of three years and for the transaction of such other business as may regularly be brought before the meeting. Craig Pavlik, President. 25-209 1/15, 22, 29

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the VILLAGE ELECTION of the Village of Amityville will be held on Tuesday, the 18h day of March 2025 and that at such election the following officers are to be elected for the term set opposite thereto: Office of the Mayor: Term 4 Year

Office of Trustee: Term 4 Year

Office of Trustee: Term 4 Year

Catherine C. Murdock Clerk/Treasurer

AVISO LEGAL SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que la ELECCIÓN DEL PUEBLO DE AMITYVILLE se llevará a cabo el dia Martes, 18 de marzo de 2025 y que en dicha elección se elegirán los siguientes funcionarios para el término establecido al contrario:

Oficina del Alcalde: Plazo de 4 años

Oficina del Fideicomisario: Término 4 años

Oficina del Fideicomisario: Término 4 años

Catherine C. Murdock Secretario / Tesorero 25-210. 1/15

Does tea have medicinal properties?

The common cold can strike at any time of year, but most people likely associate colds with winter. Colds tend to spread more easily in winter, when people typically spend more time indoors with windows closed, thus making it easier for colds and other viruses to spread.

Many people have their own remedies when it comes to treating colds, and those strategies may include a daily glass of tea. Tea has been a beloved beverage for quite some time. According to the UK Tea & Infusions Association, tea can be traced all the way back to 2737 B.C. in China. As the legend has it, Chinese Emperor Shen Nung was sitting beneath a tree when some leaves blew into some boiled drinking water his servant had been preparing for him. The emperor tried the concoction and the rest is history.

Since tea was first (accidentally) consumed, it has become an integral part of many people’s daily lives. That’s even more so when people feel a little under the weather, which might prompt some to wonder if tea actually boasts any medicinal properties or if it’s all just legend. According to Penn Medicine, various types of tea do, in fact, provide some notable health benefits.

White tea

A comparative study published in the Journal of Food Science in 2010 found that white tea might be the most effective cancer-fighting tea thanks to its robust antioxidant content. Penn Medicine also notes white tea is a source of fluoride, catechins and tannins, which means it could help to strengthen teeth and fight plaque.

Herbal tea

Harvard Medical School notes the curious distinction that herbal teas are not technically

tea, as they typically lack the leaves or leaf buds of tea plants. Herbal teas are in fact made from tisanes, which are blends or infusions of dried fruits, flowers, spices, or herbs. Harvard Medical School advises speaking with a physician prior to drinking herbal teas, as they can cause problems among individuals with certain medical conditions. If a doctor gives the green light for herbal teas, people may be happy to learn that they’ve been linked to a host of health benefits, including improved sleep, reduced stress and lower blood pressure, among others.

Green tea

Penn Medicine notes that green tea is high in flavonoids, which are a type of metabolite found in plants. Flavonoids have been linked to improved heart health because they can help to lower levels of bad cholesterol and reduce blood clotting. In addition, a 2014 study published in the European Journal of Nutrition concluded that green tea and its catechins can help to improve blood pressure.

Should certain teas be avoided?

Though white tea, herbal tea, green tea, and other forms of the popular beverage have been linked to various health benefits, Penn Medicine notes other types of tea are best avoided. For example, detox teas, which Penn Medicine notes are often laced with laxatives, can be harmful to overall health. Bubble teas also tend to be high in sugar and calories. In general, it’s best to discuss tea with a physician before making it a part of your daily routine. Tea can provide a host of health benefits, and individuals are urged to discuss those properties with a physician as they look to turn over a healthier leaf

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to 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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must.

Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $20 - $25/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges 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

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible

HomesHERALD

Two For One Deal

TAre foreign-made cabinets a bargain or a bad idea?

Q. I am being told that I can buy new kitchen cabinets much cheaper from a Chinese company than the local cabinet companies. I have been shopping around, and cabinets are quite expensive for my small kitchen, around $35,000. The imported kitchen from China is much less, around $18,000, and looks very nice, a similar style. What can you tell me about whether I am getting a good deal or whether the cabinets are poorly made?

A.This is a timely yet touchy subject, with so much uncertainty about what direction product costs will go in the near future. I receive 32 industry publications per month, and I have just learned that the U.S. Commerce Department issued a ruling in July that China was found to be skirting United States import duties by producing cabinet components in China, but then further processing the products in Vietnam and Malaysia, so the cabinetry did not appear to come from China.

Even though this latest judgment pertains specifically to solid wood and engineered-wood products, which is most of what cabinetry is made of, it also includes drawer fronts and doors, which may have been produced elsewhere and assembled in any one of those countries or the U.S. While the components’ foreign production and later assembly saved money, the cabinet door is closing on whether you will save money in the near future.

When I speak to cabinetmakers, assemblers and installers locally, I get a mix of opinions about the quality of the products. First are the components: Many raw materials are hard to trace with imported cabinets, so the type of wood can vary. Because U.S. industry standards are often much higher, the amount of warping and twisting in foreign wood can be greater due to less quality control in the humidity and curing of the solid wood components. The same is true of “engineered” wood products, which come in various types of panels such as wood strips, like plywood, or from glued sawdust pressed together under high pressure. The sawdust and the glues come from unknown origins, and some glue may be made from animal processes, which can lead to a terrible smell as the panel ages.

Then there is the connecting of components, which may be only glued or stapled. Better products have interlocking dovetailed joints. Sometimes what you don’t see is what makes the difference.

While more expensive American-made products are made with higher quality control, it won’t be long before all products go up in price. Price increases notoriously happen at the end of January each year, but with the looming possibility of higher tariffs, you may discover that the old saying, “He that will not when he may, when he will he shall have nay” is accurate. Waiting for a bargain may not save you anything, and you get what you pay for. And “The dissatisfaction of poor quality lingers long after the excitement of a cheaper price has been forgotten.” Good luck!

© 2025 Monte Leeper

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

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STEMWARE, CRYSTAL FROM Macy's Water, Wine, Champagne. 6 each. Original Boxes. Never Used. $95. (516)225-9191

WALL SAFE: HEAVY Duty, Fits in Wall between Studs, 15"x15" with 2 Keys. $50. 516-486-7941

SERVICES

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DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies,

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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!

Home Improvement

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iopinions Making resolutions stick: a blueprint for success

n January, many people hope to create a fresh start with New Year’s resolutions. Whether it’s losing weight, changing careers, saving money or quitting smoking, the desire for change is strong. But while making resolutions is easy, following through is often difficult. Transforming good intentions into lasting change requires determination, planning and persistence. The key to turning a resolution into reality is motivation. Without a genuine, internal drive, even the most well-intentioned resolutions can fade by mid-February. That’s why the first step is ensuring that your goal is something you truly care about. Resolutions made due to external pressures — like society’s standards or family expectations — are often the hardest to keep. If your goal isn’t personally meaningful, your efforts may quickly wane. A strong resolution comes from within. If your motivation is authentic, you’ll have the resolve to overcome obstacles. Avoid the common trap of thinking, “I’ll try” or “I’ll give it anoth-

ier shot.” Instead, commit to the mindset of “I can” and “I will.” When you believe you can achieve your goal, it becomes more than a wish — it turns into a mission.

A successful New Year’s resolution relies on three essential steps: clarity, planning and action. The first step is setting a clear and specific goal. Vague resolutions like “I want to lose weight” or “I want a better job” are hard to measure and achieve. Instead, define exactly what success looks like for you. How much weight do you want to lose, and by when? How much money would you like to save, and for what? What kind of job are you seeking, and what salary would meet your needs?

Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, so it’s important to adapt.

Clarity provides focus, and focus drives action. When your goal is specific, it’s easier to stay on track and avoid distractions. Instead of vaguely hoping for improvement, you’ll have a clear direction for how to get there.

Once your goal is clear, the next step is to build a realistic plan. A goal without a plan is merely a wish. Breaking your goal into smaller, manageable steps makes the process less overwhelming and easier to follow. A plan offers structure and accountability.

For example, if your goal is to lose 20 pounds, create a detailed plan with steps like: What will you eat each day? How often will you exercise, and for how long? Will you follow a specific diet, or focus on portion control? If your goal is to switch careers, set milestones such as updating your resume, networking and applying to a certain number of jobs each week. If saving money is your goal, look for areas to cut back, such as reducing dining out or setting up automatic transfers to your savings. A good plan is realistic and achievable. Breaking down larger goals into smaller chunks makes them feel less daunting. If your goal is to save $3,000 in a year, aim to save $250 a month. If that feels too challenging, break it down further — saving $9 a day is more manageable.

Flexibility is also crucial. Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, so it’s important to adapt. Having a backup plan can help you stay on track even when things don’t go as expected. Take consistent action. No matter how well-crafted your plan is, it won’t succeed without consistent effort. It’s easy to be excited about a resolution at the start of the year, but the real work is

staying focused every day. Persistence is key to making progress.

Small, daily actions lead to big results over time. Whether it’s waking up 30 minutes earlier to exercise, dedicating time to job hunting, or cooking at home instead of eating out, consistency is essential. Even on days when motivation is low, showing up and doing the work is what matters most.

Setbacks are a natural part of the process. Don’t be discouraged by a slipup or a missed day. Instead, reflect on what went wrong, adjust your approach and keep going. The more consistently you take action, the more progress you’ll make, and the more natural it will feel.

Achieving lasting change takes more than just good intentions — it requires clarity, a detailed plan, and consistent action. With the right mindset, clear goals and perseverance, turning your New Year’s resolution into a reality is entirely possible.

By following these three steps — defining what you truly want, creating a detailed and actionable plan, and committing to consistent effort — you’ll be on your way to success. Stick with it, and 2025 could be the year you achieve your goals.

Bryan Golden is the author of “Dare to Live Without Limits.” For more information, visit DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com.

When was the last time you read a book?

am a minority in so many ways that I never realized I’m part of a shrinking population of people who read books for fun. We read because we want to. We read because, for some of us, there’s no better way to spend our time. We read because there’s no other human experience that can transport us to another time and place, completely immersing us in the joys and tribulations of people who are the invention of a writer’s mind. I’ve known for some time that young people aren’t choosing to read books when the competition is TV or social media. I don’t need studies to tell me that, head to head, when it’s reading vs. streaming, reading loses with most teens most of the time.

The Atlantic recently ran a piece by Rose Horowitch revealing that at some of the country’s “elite” colleges, many students are neither willing nor able to read the books they’re assigned for classes. They say they just can’t do it — can’t concentrate for so long, can’t stay

with a narrative. Classes that once required some 10 books for the year now assign “excerpts.”

The students aren’t failing to perform. We have failed in preparing them to read properly.

When Horowitch investigated further, she discovered that the problem begins in high school. In recent years, with the ascendance of social media and smartphones, there has been a parallel decline in reading. More disturbing, many teachers are accommodating the change by dumbing down the curriculum, assigning summaries or chapters instead of whole books.

GPT to see what AI could do with the assignment.

Damn good is the answer. Plot summary, excellent. Discussion of themes, better than I could do. Analysis of language, good enough.

A re parents of young kids reading to them, or are they, too,distracted by phones?

Last week I began teaching a book group for adults. We do a book a week for eight weeks; they’ve had the syllabus since May, so there has been ample time to prepare. These folks are in the class for the pure joy and intellectual stretch of abandoning themselves to a narrative imagined by someone else.

I realize that high school and college kids can probably get by with ChatGPT to find summaries and analyses of the books they’re assigned in class. So, after I had reread the first book for my class and completed my notes, I went to Chat-

But what is missing entirely is any discussion of the emotional component of reading. The summaries can inform you, but they can’t make you feel. I’m remembering reading “Sophie’s Choice” in 1982, my heart twisted around the character as she chose which of her children would live. I’m talking about reading “Beloved” as a teen and perceiving racism in a profoundly new way. When I discovered “Lonesome Dove,” I disappeared for days into the Old West, way past the clichés of cowboys and cattle drives.

This isn’t just a woe-is-me essay. There’s an answer to the problem, and it is to limit or ban smartphone use and social media for children and young teenagers. We limited cigarette smoking and we demanded seat belts. Enlightened and committed leaders can do this. Informed parents can do this.

Kids read before they could Google. They picked up books before they could stream. Living in a world where high

school and college students don’t or can’t find the intellectual bandwidth to read a book is tragic for them personally and for our country. I wonder if parents of young children are regularly reading to them and introducing books, or if they, too, are distracted by phones.

Children who don’t read books grow up to be adults who don’t read, and never learn the subtleties of language and the possibilities of lives and worlds other than their own.

As we begin a new year, here are the books that I’m teaching. Maybe you’ll read one or two. If you do, write to me and we can share our impressions.

“Migrations,” by Charlotte McConaughy; “A Portrait of Dorian Grey,” by Oscar Wilde; “Something I’ve Been Meaning to Tell You,” by Alice Munro; “The Matrix,” by Lauren Groff; “Slow Horses,” by Mick Herron; “The Wren, the Wren,” by Anne Enright; “A Day in the Life of Abed Salama,” by Nathan Thrall; “Of Mice and Men,” by John Steinbeck.

We worry about the rise of book banning in today’s America. Remember the horrific dystopia of “1984”? The irony is that book banning and book burning aren’t necessary in a culture that doesn’t read books.

Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

RAnDi KREiss

Amityville

RecoRd

CHARLES DELANO - Founder

Established 1904

JAmES

Abandoning fact-checking is dangerous

M2 Endo Boulevard

City, NY 11530

Phone: (516) 569-4000

Fax: (516) 569-4942

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Copyright

HERALD

eta, the tech giant behind Facebook, Instagram and Threads, announced a significant policy shift last week: It will no longer employ independent fact-checkers to monitor and flag false content on its platforms.

While the company says it will continue to remove illegal activity, hate speech and explicit material, the abandonment of fact-checking signals an alarming retreat from the fight against misinformation and disinformation. The decision isn’t just a step backward — it is a surrender that carries grave consequences for the future of public discourse, democracy and social cohesion.

We have seen the potential for misinformation to destabilize our society. From conspiracy theories about election fraud to false narratives about coronavirus vaccines, unchecked falsehoods have exacerbated a public health crisis, deepened our political polarization and even been the cause of violence.

Meta’s platforms have often been central to the spread of such misinformation, because its algorithms often promote and prioritize it. The company’s decision to abandon fact-checking signals that it is no longer willing to bear the responsibility of combating this dangerous trend, leaving a vacuum that bad actors at home and abroad are likely to exploit.

The announcement comes at a time when public trust in crucial institutions like the courts and the media is already at a historic low. By stepping away from fact-checking, Meta is essentially declaring that truth is a relative concept in the digital age. This dangerous idea has dire implications.

If platforms as influential as Facebook and Instagram refuse to differentiate between fact and fiction, the lines between credible information and out-

letters

and-out lies and conspiracy theories will blur even further. This will inevitably empower those who benefit from sowing chaos and confusion, whether they are political extremists, foreign actors, or profit-driven disinformation peddlers.

The broader context of Meta’s decision is equally troubling. Over the past few years, tech companies have faced increasing scrutiny and pressure from both ends of the political spectrum. Some conservatives have accused platforms of censorship, particularly in high-profile cases like Facebook’s suspension of then President Donald Trump following the Jan. 6 Capitol attack. Republicans in Congress and conservative courts have cast social media moderation as government overreach and an attack on free speech.

But Meta’s retreat from fact-checking is not a victory for free speech; it is a capitulation to chaos. Free speech thrives in an environment where truth and accountability prevail. Local newspapers, which are committed to objective journalism, continue to fact-check and be a source of fairness and truth, but platforms without that commitment become echo chambers for lies, propaganda and hate. The removal of guardrails does not level the playing field; it tilts it in favor of those who manipulate information for power or profit.

This creates a toxic environment in which hate speech and antisemitism flourish, as recent trends have shown. Marginalized groups, often the primary targets of such rhetoric, will bear the brunt of the harm.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Jewish global human rights organization, stated that it is “deeply concerned” about the decision.

“This reckless move disregards the immense responsibility social media companies bear in protecting vulnerable

‘The Postal Service continues to adapt and innovate’

To the Editor:

Last week, the U.S. Postal Service held a meeting with the Long Island Postal Customer Council, a gathering that brought together local commercial mailers, business partners and industry professionals.

The spotlight of the meeting was the Postal Service’s 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America. This ambitious initiative aims to modernize the postal network, enhance service across all mail and shipping categories, and restore long-term financial sustainability. Attendees had the opportunity to understand how this plan has been positively impacting businesses across Long Island.

As part of the Delivering for America plan, the Postal

communities and mitigating the spread of harmful and dangerous ideologies,” the center said in a statement. “History has repeatedly shown that online hate does not remain confined to the digital realm — it manifests in tragic offline consequences.”

By abandoning its responsibility to curb misinformation, Meta risks alienating users and advertisers who value trustworthy, safe online spaces. In a world where lies often spread faster than truth, elections can be swayed by disinformation campaigns, public health initiatives can be derailed by conspiracy theories and trust in scientific and journalistic institutions can erode beyond repair.

The question of who bears responsibility for curbing misinformation in the digital age is complex, but Meta’s decision sets a dangerous precedent. If one of the most influential companies in the world believes it can abdicate this responsibility without consequences, other platforms are likely to follow. This may well create a domino effect in which the internet devolves into a freefor-all of unchecked falsehoods and extremism.

We must demand better. Governments and regulators must step in where companies such as Meta have stepped back, enforcing stricter rules about misinformation and holding platforms accountable for the content they amplify. Nongovernmental organizations and independent watchdogs must also play a role in promoting digital literacy and factchecking.

Meta’s retreat from that crucial responsibility is more than a corporate decision; it is a warning sign. If we fail to act, the world Meta is helping to create could be one in which truth, accountability and even democracy itself are the casualties.

opinions

Suffolk is learning that wastewater shouldn’t be wasted

at long last, Suffolk County has a county executive who fully understands the need to send treated wastewater back into the underground water table that is Long Islanders’ sole source of potable water, instead of dumping it in nearby water bodies including the Atlantic ocean. And Ed Romaine has legislative support.

The passage of a referendum in November’s election provided the funding to do this.

The measure amended the Suffolk County Water Quality Restoration Act, and increased the county sales tax by one-eighth of a cent to raise money to build sewers and install high-tech innovative/alternative septic systems and fund, as the measure stated, “projects for the reuse of treated effluent.”

Last month, at the bergen Point Wastewater Treatment Plant, in West babylon, Romaine announced that wastewater from the plant would be used to irrigate an adjacent county golf course, and within the plant. It was built to serve the Southwest Sewer District and send 30 million gallons of treated wastewater a day through an

outfall pipe and out into the Atlantic.

As a Suffolk legislator and brookhaven town supervisor, Romaine repeatedly emphasized the need to send treated wastewater back into the underground water table. “This,” he said at bergen Point, “is one of 10 county wastewater treatment plants that we are currently considering for water reuse. by utilizing what otherwise would have been a byproduct, we can decrease the pressure on our aquifer by hundreds of millions of gallons a year and even help recharge the aquifer.”

Cquality … I thank the county executive and hope all these planned projects will work together.”

ounty

Executive Ed Romaine knows that it should be sent back underground.

In 2016, treated effluent from the Riverhead Sewage Treatment plant began being used to irrigate the adjacent Indian Island County Golf Course instead of dumping it into the Peconic River. Romaine intends to have all sewer systems built in Suffolk recharge wastewater. “We’re not as stupid as they were years ago,” he said, “where all they did was take that outfall pipe and send (wastewater) out to the ocean or the Long Island Sound.”

Romaine was joined at bergen Point by a bipartisan group of Suffolk legislators, including Kevin mcCaffrey, of Lindenhurst, presiding officer of the Suffolk Legislature, who said that reuse would “let bergen Point be known for helping water quantity as well as water

Letters

Service has introduced several new products and services aimed at helping businesses thrive. From USPS Ground Advantage, a ground shipping solution that provides an affordable and reliable way to send packages in the U.S., to USPS Connect Local, which gives small to mediumsized businesses access to low-cost, sameday/next-day package delivery to local customers in their neighborhood.

We’re giving businesses of all sizes the benefits of USPS’s optimized network.

USPS offers transparent pricing with no hidden surcharges, and Informed Delivery, a free service that gives customers a preview of mail and packages scheduled to arrive soon, and the ability to set package tracking notifications and schedule email reminders for important mail pieces.

At the meeting, satisfied industry partners and business professionals shared their experiences, highlighting how the Postal Service has enabled them to connect affordably with their customers — especially during a period in which business costs are continually escalating.

As the Postal Service continues to adapt and innovate, it remains a trusted partner for businesses on Long Island and across the nation.

Amy GIbbS USPS strategic communications specialist Melville

Legislator Steven Flotterson, of West Islip, the deputy presiding officer, said, “bergen Point is just one of the many sites where a golf course is close to a treatment plant. but golf course irrigation is just one example of ways in which we are now moving forward together.”

Five decades ago, as the Southwest Sewer District was taking form, I wrote extensively about the folly of sending a massive amount of wastewater daily into the Atlantic. Leading opponents of the scheme were Charlie Pulaski, conservation chairman of the Suffolk County American Legion, and George A. King, chairman of the Long Island baymen’s Association. They warned of adverse impacts to many streams, Carlls River and the Great South bay.

In recent times, the Islip-based Seatuck Environmental Association advanced a Long Island Water Reuse Road map & Action Plan. The 2023 plan identified 50 golf courses in Nassau and Suffolk that were within two miles of wastewater treatment facilities and thus available for recharge, along with other locations including “sod farms and greenhouses, as well as for lawns at

Nassau County’s official paper is the Post?

To the Editor:

The Press Club of Long Island, the local chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, believes that Nassau County’s decision to replace Newsday with the New york Post as its official paper is a disservice to residents.

The decision is also an attack on a free press, viewed by political observers and journalists as punishing Newsday for its watchdog coverage, the essence of journalism’s mission.

Public notices are meant to inform, but fewer readers of the Post in this region mean fewer people will see them. Newsday’s strong local readership and deep connection to Long Island ensure that critical information reaches the community. The Post, with limited ties to Nassau County, lacks the local insight and audience necessary to fulfill this responsibility.

This shift jeopardizes transparency and public engagement. Residents deserve a publication that reflects their needs and understands their community.

boARD oF

Press Club of Long Island

educational campuses” and “commercial centers.”

The plan can be viewed through a box titled Water Reuse at Seatuck’s website, seatuck.org. Its Executive Summary states, “over the past half century, water quality in Long Island’s groundwater aquifers … as well as both freshwater and coastal surface waters, has steadily declined … During this same time period, Long Island’s water quantity problem has also come into focus.”

The U.S. Geological Survey released an 83-page hydrology report last year about the water table beneath Nassau County — which is 88 percent sewered, with sewage treatment plants dumping wastewater into adjacent water bodies — which said that the water table is now “under stress” with saltwater intruding as freshwater is being depleted.

In the late 1800s, brooklyn lost its potable underground water supply by over-pumping from the water table below it and the consequent saltwater intrusion, along with pollution — and became dependent on a now fully subscribed upstate reservoir system. Losing potable water cannot be allowed to happen to the rest of Long Island.

Now Romaine and Suffolk legislators are tackling the vital water supply issue.

Karl Grossman is a professor of journalism at SUNY Old Westbury, host of the TV program “Enviro Close-Up with Karl Grossman” and the author of six books.

Framework by Kevin Kelley

In the background, the Himalayas’ Annapurna range — Nepal

karL Grossman

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