Amityville Herald 09_12_2024 by Richner Communications, Inc

HERALD AMITYvIlle

ReCORD

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

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

Residents in Village of Amityville, towing their lawn chairs and coolers trapsed from one porch to another for an all-day celebration of local. music.

The event, Play Music on the Porch Day, which is celebrated throughout the world, was held Saturday, August 31, with more than a dozen local bands and musicians participating in Amityville.

This was the second year the Village sponsored the event and Amityville Mayor Dennis Siry said he was inspired to bring it to Amityville for the first time last year after his daughter, Kelly Mae, told him about her experience with this event while she was in Boston.

Two families gather for a day of music. Brigitte Doerner, Keegan Doerner, Bridget Ledwell, Brendan Ledwell, Charlotte Bura, Sullivan Doerner and John Bura.

Global grooves hit home as Amityville Village hosts Music on the Porch Day

“When she told me about Play Music On The Porch Day it was a no-brainer for me to decide to try it here in Amityville,” he said, adding that he was shocked by how many people came out to the event the very first year. He noted, however that music is a “universal unifier.

“It’s the one thing where race and religion don’t matter,” said Siry.

Siry, who sings and plays the guitar, was the first performer of the day. He sang originals and songs within the country bluegrass and southern rock genre.

After performing, Siry said that if he helped make everyone forget about life for a little bit, he did his job.

Siry’s niece Courtney Weglinski came

Babylon gets state grant for Green Homes Program

Funds to help homeowners make their homes more energy effecient

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Town of Babylon is the recipient of a $235,330 conservation block grant from the Department of Energy. The funds are to be used to support the town’s Long Island Green Homes program, which helps residents increase home energy efficiency while saving them money on their energy costs.

“We are really excited about this, particularly since we are the only town in New York State that got it,” said Supervisor Richard Schaffer.

Funds will be allocated to purchase new heat pump systems and other necessary equipment for approximately 40-50 households, with a focus on lowincome communities.

Babylon is also expected to develop a new marketing plan to raise awareness of the program and better engage disadvantaged communities through printed materials, digital social media advertisements, and inperson events.

The Town’s Green Homes program is self-financing residential retrofit program for upgrading the energy efficiency of existing homes exclusively in

the Town of Babylon. The program, established by former Town Supervisor Steve Bellone, enables homeowners to make their homes greener and healthier at little or no out-of-pocket cost.

Most homes—even newer ones —have not been constructed to building performance standards that conserve energy, said town officials. With fuel costs at all-time highs and in a region where utility rates are among the highest in the nation, homeowners can no longer afford to waste energy.

Donna and John Deodato of Babylon recently opted into the program installing a new HVAC system throughout their home and said they feel fortunate to be living in the Town of Babylon, which offers the program directly.

“The process was easy, and the workmanship high quality.,” said Donna. “We got the work done and everything went very smoothly.”

The savings comes through the low interest loan the program provides and the better rate PSEG provides, giving the

Photo Credit/Herald

Never forget…

Please join in the Village of Amityville 9/11 Memorial Service

Wednesday, S eptember 11th at 5 p.m.

9/11 Memorial Park (Broadway at LIRR)

Wednesday, S eptember 11 th at 5 p.m.

Mayor Dennis Siry & the Village Trustees

9/11 Memorial Park (Broadway at LIRR)

Mayor Dennis Siry & the Village Trustees

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Follow George’s journey through intrigue and suspense in this story set in scenes of familiar Massapequa. Get your copy of Gary Slavin’s novel today.

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Photos courtesy/Amityville Union Free School District

Lucas Gomez, entering the 2nd grade. Pictured with his father Harven Gomez

Social Worker Debra Lee and staff member Arlene Farkash

Kylie Galindo, entering KA

Jacob Rittenhouse, entering the 1st grade

Amityville takes part in Music on the Porch Day

down from Poughkeepsie with her two sons Archer and Deacon to see her uncle and other Amityvillians perform.

“The boys are so excited to be here,” said Weglinski. “This is a really nice event.”

“We’re big on music here in Amityville and we’re like one close-knit family, it’s great to catch up with the neighbors at an event like this,” said Assistant to the Mayor Wendy O’ Neill, adding that she loves seeing the community come together.

Her husband Michael O’ Neill, who is also a trustee for the Village of Amityville, brought their dog Poppy along on the tour and said that he loves how this event started from nothing and has grown to be so popular.

“I want to thank the mayor for starting this event,” said Michael. “He is someone who is never afraid to try new things.”

Siry was followed by the Village Music Band, Michael Bayer, Brendan McGlone, Greg Lutz Band, Ryan Dobby, Acoustic Blue and Southbound who performed a variety of genres including Southern, Classic and Alternative Rock, Soul and Classic and Contemporary Pop.

Brian Waite and his dog Moose attended with his wife Rebecca who was there with the Amityville Junior

League, selling hotdogs and refreshments to benefit the League.

“Amityville is a great town,” said Brian. “It’s a great way to close out the summer.”

Candice Besson was at the event with her daughter Zoe and said that the event had “a New Orleans vibe,” and she knew she didn’t want to miss it. She was also there to see her best friend’s husband’s band, Pudding Time, led by Michael Bayer.

“This is my village,” attendee Kevin Battcher said with pride. “We came last year too, and it was a great time.” He added that this is what living ina small village is all about,” he added.

“I’m having the best time,” said Mary Dunphy. “Amityville is just such a secret gem,” she said.

Music On The Porch Day is celebrated every year in over 70 countries and over 1000 cities worldwide including places like Komotina, Greece, Nairobi, Kenya and Waihi, New Zealand. To learn more about Music On The Porch Day, please visit playmusicontheporchday.com.

To find out more about the Village of Amityville and upcoming events, please visit Amityville.com or call (631)-2646000.

Babylon’s Green Homes Program boosted with federal grant

homeowner an even greater saving through lower energy costs.

“But more than that, the new system is quieter, more efficient and more attractive than having air conditioners sticking out of every window making a racket,” said Donna.

The town’s Green Homes Program pays the contractor the entire cost of the energy-efficiency improvements. Under a separate contract with the homeowner, the town sets up a monthly payment plan that the homeowner pays for the improvements over time. These costs are offset by the projected utility bill cost

savings.

“Every time we get money, we offer more grants to people because it is paid back and replenished,” said Schaffer. “This not only helps the environment, but it also helps individual homeowners by lowering their energy costs.

Babylon Town residents interested in the program can get more information on the program at: www.townofbabylon. com/926/Green-Homes.

Resident living outside of the Town can get information on energy saving programs at ligreenhomes.com

Study: retrofitting your home reduces carbon emissions

A bove, Mayor Dennis Siry performs.

At right Mike O’Neill with his dog Poppy.

Below, Nick Tramposch and Megan Jacobsen with her nephew Owen.

the environment, most people don’t realize that the most cost effective thing they can do is retrofit their home.

Many people are under the impression that the only way to “Go Green” is to drive a hybrid car, install solar panels, and recycle their household waste. While these are positive things to do for

A town-wide study was done in 2007 that looked at all of the sources of carbon emissions (pollution), and the results pointed in a clear direction. Residential housing is the largest source of carbon emissions and energy waste.

(Source: Town of Babylon)

Above, Brian and Rebecca Waite with their dog Moose; Rigth center, Mary Dunphy and Rose Schmid; Right below, M ayor Siry’s niece Courtney Weglinski and her sons Archer and Deacon.

Photos/Herald

NEWS BRIEFS

Amityville Village hosting free concert Friday, September 13, at Village beach

On Friday, September 13, 8 to 10 p.m. Amityville Village is hosting a free Radio Flashback Concert at Amityville Beach, James A. Caples Park Parking lot.

The event includes a ‘70s & ‘80s Rock N’ Roll tribute with stage light show.

Bring chairs and coolers. Raffle tickets will be sold for a chance to win a Michael Kelly electric guitar. The raffle is to benefit AFD Cares and the Amityville Fire Department.

For information, call Village Hall 631-264-6000.

Car Show Long Island at TOBAY taking place Sunday, September 22

The annual fall classic, Car Show Long Island will be taking place on Sunday, September 22 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at TOBAY Beach.

Presented by Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Oyster Bay Town Board, the event will have a free concert, food truck corral, awards, vendors and more.

Additional parking and shuttle ser-

vice will be available at Jones Beach Field 5. Show gates will open at 8 a.m. and the rain date is scheduled for Sun., Sept. 29. This event is free to spectators.

To register and for more information, please call (516)- 797-4121 or visit carshowli.com. TOBAY Beach is located at Ocean Parkway, Massapequa.

Volunteers sought for the 2024 Suffolk County Marathon

The 10th Annual Suffolk County Marathon, Half Marathon and 10 K will be taking place on Sunday, October 20, with a 5K taking place on Saturday, October 19. Saturday races will start and finish at Gardiner County Park in West Islip and Sunday’s races will start in the Village of Babylon and finish in Gardiner Park.

Hosted by Catholic Health, each year,

the marathon raises money to benefit veterans and to date, the Suffolk County Marathon has raised over $1,000,000 for local veterans’ services.

Marathon organizers are currently seeking volunteers and have a variety of opportunities available. Please visit suffolkcountymarathon.com and click on the “volunteer” tab to learn more.

Annual ‘Stop World Hunger’ Tennis Tournament September 21

The Annual “Stop World Hunger” Tennis Tournament will begin on Saturday, September 21 and extend until November 24.

An opportunity to play tennis, make new friends and help those in need, over the past 40 years, Stop World Hunger has forwarded more than $140,000.00 to Catholic Relief Services.

Tennis events consist of men’s singles, senior singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles and

mixed doubles. The registration fee is $6 for singles and $10 for doubles. Divisions are created based upon ability level and geographic location. Players schedule their own matches at mutually convenient times and sites. The registration deadline is Friday, September 13.

Applications are available by writing to: Stop World Hunger Tennis, 53 Elm Place, Amityville. For more information, please call Matt at (631)-789-3618.

Durso stresses commitment to his constituents

By MIKE POLANSKY

Correspondent

Incumbent Republican Michael Durso is running for re-election for his third term in the 9th Assembly District, where he served for the past four years. Living in Massapequa Park with his family, Durso sees his role in the Assembly as a major commitment of time and effort.

His Democratic opponent, Steven DellaVecchia, is a North Babylon resident, a a member of the North Babylon Fire Department and a Town of Babylon employee. DellaVecchia is not actively campaigning and declined interview requests.

Durso is involved with several Assembly committees, including Labor, Science & Technology, Governmental Operations, and Transportation. He is also a member of the Commission on Skills Development and Career Education.

“It’s a crucial job that demands extensive work and often takes time away from my family,” Durso said. “With only 150 state lawmakers representing 20 million people, it truly is a full-time job.”

He opposes the Equal Rights Amendment to the state Constitution (now being called Proposal 1), which will be on the November ballot, arguing it addresses multiple unrelated issues and lacks clarity.

Incumbent Assemblyman Michael Durso aims to advocate strongly for the issues he believes are important to his constituents as he runs for a third term.

from odd to even-numbered years. He argues this will not save money and could complicate ballots, causing local races to be overlooked.

“It will diminish the local aspect of elections,” he said. “Local races will be overshadowed by federal and state issues.”

We must offer all students a range of options, not just college.

MICHAEL DURSO

One of Durso’s goals in Albany is to ensure adequate state funding for local schools. He opposed a proposal to eliminate the state’s hold harmless rule, which guarantees that districts receive the same amount of foundation aid as the previous year. And he believes that the aid formula should be adjusted to meet evolving needs, including school safety and expanded educational programs.

9th Assembly District

“I have two daughters and support a woman’s right to choose,” Durso said. “I want them to be able to make informed decisions.”

Durso and his wife Dana, a trustee in Massapequa Park Village, have two daughters, Nicole and Taylor.

While he supports transgender rights, he is against allowing biological men to compete in women’s sports.

A lifelong resident of Massapequa Park, he is a Massapequa High School and Nassau BOCES’ Barry Tech vocational program graduate. He takes pride in his local background, noting his district office was once the site of the Village Bunnery Pub, previously owned by his mother.

Durso began his career as a Town of Oyster Bay sanitation worker, later becoming a supervisor. He was a public safety officer at Hofstra University and involved with CSEA Local 881 and Teamsters Local 553, identifying as a “Labor Republican.”

Recently, Durso opposed a state law to shift local town and county elections

“We must offer all students a range of options, not just college,” Durso said. “We need to support diverse educational paths and cater to individual strengths.”

Durso is a vocal supporter of the Massapequa school district’s fight against the State Education Department’s mandate to remove the Chiefs logo. This mandate is part of a state initiative against the use of Native American imagery in school mascots, driven by the National Congress of American Indians.

“I’m a proud Massapequa Chief, and I believe the logo celebrates our Native American heritage and serves as an educational tool,” Durso said. “It honors the tribes that lived in the area long before European settlers.”

He also has been outspoken about the migrant crisis, which he said significantly impacts New York state. He criticizes the federal government for its handling of illegal border crossings and the expenditure of $4.3 billion on migrant issues, arguing it diverts funds from essential services such as education and school security.

“We can’t afford to provide adequate resources while spending so much on migrant issues,” Durso said.

HERALD NEIGHBORS

What’s all the buzz about honeybees?

Pinelawn arboretum hosts education event to teach the importance of bees in the environment and our lives

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

It was, perhaps, one of the sweetest events of the season.

On Sunday, August 25, Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum hosted its 6th Annual Honeybee Experience, an event created to educate the community about the essential role of honeybees in our environment. This free event offered attendees, of all ages, a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating yet endangered insects up close, in a safe and engaging setting—a perfect addition to any summer bucket list.

Pinelawn has had a Honeybee Hive Program since 2017, dedicated to supporting the honeybee population and promoting pollination by maintaining five honeybee hives that are home to over 500,000 bees. Over 315 community members attended this educational event. Day one was open to the public, and on day two 115 Girl Scouts were invited to attend the event. Master Beekeeper Steve Chen led the event, offering an in-depth question and answer session and a hands-on learning experience.

The event featured educational activities for children including honeybee-themed arts and crafts and a “Find the Queen” activity, where participants can search for the queen bee within an observation hive. Attendees learned the difference between yellow jackets and honeybees, had the chance to taste fresh honey directly from the combs, and test their knowledge in a trivia game at the conclusion of each session, with a jar of honey awarded as the prize.

“Honeybees are vital to the health of our ecosystem. Our beautiful grounds here at Pinelawn benefit so greatly from the honeybees we have onsite who pollinate our trees and facilitate wildlife,” said Justin Locke, President of Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum. “Yet what many don’t realize is that honeybees are facing increasing threats. By hosting events like the Honeybee Experience, we aim to raise awareness and foster a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures. Our goal is to inspire our community to take small, meaningful actions that contribute to the preservation of honeybees and the environment they help sustain.”

For more information on Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, or to schedule a tour of the property, visit www.pinelawn. com or call 631-249-6100.

Honeybees, many wild native bees, and other pollinators are in decline. Some beekeepers have reported annual hive losses of 30% or more due to many causes including viruses, pesticide use, habitat loss, and climate change. To further support the honeybee population, Pinelawn is offering 100 percent raw honey, harvested directly from its own hives during the event.

Honeybee Fun Facts:

• The honeybee is the only insect that produces food consumed by humans.

• A single hive can house between 40,000 to 80,000 honeybees.

• These incredible pollinators can fly up to 5 miles at speeds of 15-20 miles per hour.

• During a single foraging trip, a honeybee may visit between 50 to 100 flowers.

Photos / Herald

HERALD SPORTS

Amityville boys’ soccer sets the bar high

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

A fresh new soccer season is upon us. For the Amityville boys, the team is looking to bounce back after losing in the county final a season ago.

Mike Abbondondolo is in his 12th season as the head coach. His goal is to get the Warriors to move forward together.

“With our program, we have high standards,” Abbondondolo said. “When days aren’t as joyful, can you remain positive and collectively, as a group, work through problems?”

Amityville has a bunch of talented players returning.

“The group has really blossomed,” Abbondonolo said. “It’s been awesome to see them come into their own.”

John Arango, Briam Rivera, and Denis Hernandez are all returning for their senior campaigns. Arango, thanks to his very high soccer IQ, was named All-Conference last fall and enters the year as a captain. Rivera, an All-League selection in 2023, is versatile in terms of the amount of positions he can play. He has tons of energy, Abbondondolo said, which is needed. Hernandez brings a lot of leadership to the team as this will be his third year on varsity. He’s a player who’s best attribute is off-the-ball movement, which can be valuable in transition.

Those three players along with other key contributors who return such as Anthony Salvador, a center back who is a solid one-on-one defender, Aidan Johnson, a talented midfielder playing his third season on varsity, and Saul Fernandez, a gritty defender who can also present a threat in the attack, makes Amityville tough to handle.

Another player to keep an eye on is newcomer, Javier Newman. “We are very excited about Newman,” Abbondonolo said. “He’s very quick and is a strong striker so we are expecting him to have a very big year.”

When you have the amount of suc-

Tony Bellissimio/Herald Senior John Arango and the Warriors are looking for another deep playoff run this fall

cess that Amityville has had as of late, it can be difficult to reach expectations because of how high it sets the bar. There is a lot to prove for the Warriors going into the 2024 campaign.

“We feel as if we are underrated,” Abbondonolo said. “Since we’ve had so much success, there’s this feeling that we won’t climb back and get that same success again. The guys are motivated for sure.”

For a team that is facing tons of pressure, it’s important for them to stay loose and calm. “The vibe and mentality of the team has been nothing short of phenomenal,” Abbondonolo said.

As a member of League VII in Suffolk County, Amityville shares a division with other talented teams like Harborfields, Kings Park, and Islip. Coming off of a 10-4 season in the league, its season will open up on the road against Half Hollow Hills West. The home opener is against Westhampton.

North Babylon football begins title defense

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Championship expectations. Those two words go hand in hand with North Babylon football. After losing to Garden CIty in the 2023 Long Island Class II championship game, the goal for the Bulldogs to make it back to the LIC stage. Achieving it, though, will not be easy.

“As I told the guys, we are playing in a monster division,” said North Babylon head coach John Rowland, who’s in his fourth season at the helm. “It’s going to be very difficult to go undefeated because anyone can beat anyone.”

Rowland has been with the North Babylon football program for over 30 years, serving on former longtime head coach Terry Manning’s staff. “Terry was a huge mentor to me,” said Rowland. “We still talk every day. He’s like a big brother to me.”

Rowland mentioned after spending so much time under Manning, it was impossible to learn some things along the way. “I love the way he treated his players,” Rowland said. “He taught me to push them hard but treat them as kids first, players second.”

North Babylon, the defending Suffolk Division II champ, enters 2024 with another roster filled with talent. It returns three All-County selections in Jawara Keahey, a running back/cornerback who rushed for a Long Islandleading 2,600 yards and 37 touchdowns last season, Alex Griffith, a tight end/ defensive end that Rowland called a “monster” after gaining 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason, and running back/linebackerJordan King, who is expected to have another big year.

Keahey rushed for 200 or more yards in all but three of the 12 games and had 324 yards on the ground and four touchdowns against Centereach.

With Tristan Garcia returning for another season as starting quarterback, the offense has the personnel to

Tony Bellissimio/Herald Jawara Keahey rushed for a Long Islandbest 2,600 yards last fall and scored 27 touchdowns to help lead the Bulldogs to a country title.

be just as productive as it was a season ago. Peter Banculli is a returning fullback/linebacker who plays a key role on both sides of the ball.

In terms of newcomers, Rowland mentioned two from the JV level who are competing for starting varsity jobs right away — tight end/defensive end Tristan Wojt and offensive lineman/defensive lineman Sean Staley.

Fresh off of a 7-1 regular season in 2023, the team’s first league game comes this Saturday, Sept. 14, at home against Half Hollow Hills East, another team that finished 7-1 last season.

“It’s so crucial that we bring our best everyday,” Rowland said. “Even throughout the season, our tough schedule requires us to practice hard each week.”

With West Islip and West Babylon looming in October, the energy and effort levels must remain high all season.

Helen Keller sees beauty in the beasts

Helen Keller (1880-1968) never had a guide dog. The concept was new in her lifetime, plus her dual disability would have prohibited it. However, dogs were an integral part of her life.

Helen Keller once said: “I have just touched my dog. He was rolling on the grass, with pleasure in every muscle and limb. I wanted to catch a picture of him with my fingers, and I touched him as lightly as I would cobwebs. If he could speak, I believe he would agree with me that paradise is attained by touch; for in touch is all love and intelligence. “

Helen always surrounded herself with dogs. One of the rare photos of her during the “wild child” period (after the fever that left her blind and deaf and before Annie Sullivan arrived), shows a calm Helen holding the family Maltese on her lap. Once Annie opened the world for Helen, young Helen is pictured finger spelling on “Jumbo” the family Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Helen spelled constantly, even in her sleep.

During her adult years with Annie Sullivan, Helen usually had multiple dogs. One of her favorites was Sir Thomas or “Phiz”, a Boston Terrier given to her by her classmates at Radcliffe. Helen’s name for him was short for “physiognomy (face) because she thought “he had the drollest “phiz” in dogdom.”

This is astounding. I could see that Charlotte, my late English Toy Spaniel, had a comical bug-eyed face, but Helen knew this about her dog only by touch. Phiz accompanied Helen everywhere, even on the tree house picnics she had with her teacher.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

Sieglinde, to say “Mama” and “water.” At that time Annie’s health was not good. Sieglinde seemed to read her moods. Whenever visitors came to the house who bored his mistress, he would chase them away. Helen lectured all over the world. Some of her dogs were souvenirs of her trips. When she received an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow, she brought home a Scottish named BenSithGaelic for “mountain fairy.” Helen delighted in writing notes to her pets and dreaming up their imaginary answers. Once she composed a poem to honor the “baptism” of Ben-Sith.

Akita breeders credit Helen Keller with bringing the first Akita to the United States In 1939, a Japanese police officer presented her with one. This was quite an honor because this breed had been reserved as temple guards. Ironically, just two years before Pearl Harbor, she named the dog “Kamikaze-Go” which means “golden wind.” He was a great comfort to her because she was still grieving Annie who passed away in 1936. Helen said that Kami knew how she felt and would lick away her tears.

This bulgy canine look must have amused Helen because in her autobiography she includes a letter she wrote after attending the Westminster show in New York City in 1895. She says the Bulldogs received the most attention, “permitting themselves startling liberties when anyone caressed them, helping themselves without ceremony to kisses, apparently unconscious of the impropriety of their conduct.”

Then she calls them “unbeautiful little beasts, so good natured and friendly, one cannot help liking them!”

Over the years, Annie and Helen owned Great Danes, Bull Terriers, a Dachshund, a Lakeland Terrier, and a German Shepherd named Et-Tu that had flunked out of the Seeing Eye program because of car sickness. Friends swore that Annie taught her favorite Dane,

Soon after coming to America, Kami died of distemper at eight months old. Despite growing tension between the United States and Japan, Helen accepted his brother as a replacement. This Akita, “KenzanGo,” remained her devoted pet for the next ten years or so.

After Annie’s death, Helen lived and lectured with Polly Thomson. At one point, they had eight dogs at Helen’s home in Westport. Friends protested because the dogs would get into fights, but Helen would not part with any of them. All the dogs succumbed to old age or natural causes. Each time Helen would write letters of gratitude to her veterinarians, who offered their services free of charge, as did her own doctors.

Helen Keller, blind, deaf, and brilliant, could visualize the essence of man’s best friend. She attributed her charming relations with dogs to their “happy spontaneity.” Dogs could read her too. She said: “Usually they are quick to discover I cannot see or hear. Considerately they rise as I come near, so that I may not stumble.

For Adoption at Babylon Animal Shelter (631-6439270) 80 New Highway, N. Amityville: Cosmo #4-247 is an adorable, gray, male kitten, five months old, while Fluffy #24-262 is a female red Retriever type, six years old.

Babylon Shelter Poster Pets:

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

•Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call (516)-659-3489 or email amityvillerotaryclub@gmail.com

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631)972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia. org

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Hwy., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. For more information call (631)972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia. org.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

•Town of Babylon Planning Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631)-957-3103.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

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

•Town of Babylon Town Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631)-957-3103.

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Beacon Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: cjames@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000, ext. 329.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Breeders credit Helen Keller for bringing the first Akita from Japan to the US in 1939.

Fluffy - 6 Year Old Female Retriver Mix

Cosmo - 5 Month Ole Male Kitten

Amityville kicks off the 2024-2025 school year

On September 4, students, faculty and staff members, and district administrators in the Amityville School District were excited to kick off the 20242025 school year.

There were plenty of familiar faces returning and new ones joining the Amityville school community who were ready to embark on this educational adventure together.

Additionally, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert, Mary Stephens, the district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, and Olivia Buatsi, the district’s assistant superintendent for finance, visited schools throughout the district to greet teachers and students.

The Amityville School District looks forward to a successful year ahead.

From left, Olivia Buatsi, the district’s assistant superintendent for finance, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert, Edmund W. Miles Middle School Principal Ms. Rose Hutcherson, and Mary Stephens, the district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, were excited to kick off the 2024-2025 school year.

CRIME WATCH

FATAL MVA

Copiague: Suffolk County Police First Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that seriously injured a scooter operator in Copiague on Sat., Aug. 31. Police gave this account: Rudi Rodriguez-Luna was riding a gas-powered scooter eastbound on Oak Street, near the Long Island Railroad Station, when he lost control of the scooter and struck a cement pillar at 5 p.m. Rodriguez-Luna, 20, of Copiague, was taken via ambulance to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip for treatment of serious physical injuries. The investigation is continuing.

PHONE SCAM

Babylon Town: A scammer contacted a West Babylon resident by phone telling

them they had to wire money to help military personnel serving overseas or be arrested. The individual sent the money, the amount of which police would not disclose.

Copiague: Automobile keys were stolen from inside a mailbox at a home on Marconi Boulevard Aug. 20.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired Leynis Aquino De Leion, 44 W. Alhambra Ave., Lindenhurst; Petit Larceny: Tania Y. Ortiz, 55 Meadow. La., Amityville; Pasquale A. Vallone, S, 8th St., Lindenhurst; Elijah S. Whitaker, 38, homeless; Grand Larceny: Oscar I. Arroyo Magallanes31 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles.

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.

Photos courtesy/Amityville Union Free School District

Students at Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School in Amityville kicked off a new school year on Sept. 4.

OBITUARY

Lillian “Lovey” Rumfield Bryson, lifetime Massapequa resident, at 94

Lillian Rumfield Bryson, who was a dramatic force in the Massapequa and Massapequa Park community as a volunteer and historian, died Aug. 21, 2024, from complications from Parkinson’s disease. Mrs. Bryson, known as “Lovey”, was 94 years old.

Mrs. Bryson was a lifetime resident of Massapequa Park, born there in 1929 to Charlotte Heerlein Rumfield and Frank M. Rumfield. Growing up, her house was always full, as her parents took in many foster children who she loved as siblings. She went to Massapequa School (now Fairfield Elementary School) and graduated from Amityville High School in 1947.

In 1948, she married her high school sweetheart, Gene “Corky” Bryson, who she had known as a family friend since they were children. In 1952 they moved into the home they built in Massapequa Park, where they raised their two children and lived the remainder of their lives. They went on many adventures together: camping across the country in their motor home, traveling to Belize for the Long Island Episcopal Cursillo and taking part in Elderhostel. Gene passed away in 2017 after 69 years of marriage.

“She had a passion for her family and her community,” said her daughter Lisa Bryson-Brockman of Massapequa Park. “She loved documenting local history and loved, even more, being able to share that history with others.”

Mrs. Bryson was also a prolific artist and writer. Until the very end of her life, she was constantly at work on a creative project. As a photographer, she saw the beauty in the little moments. She self-published many books filled with her words and photographs and shared them with family and friends.

Over the years, she held important positions in her local community. As trustee, historian and one of the founding members of the Historical Society of the Massapequas, where she taught countless school children on field trips to the complex about the history of Native Americans in Massapequa. She was also a member of the zoning board for the Village of Massapequa Park, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary in the Massapequa Fire Department, and a very active member of Grace Episcopal Church.

This devotion to her community was sparked by her family’s long history in Massapequa Park: her great-grandparents Clara Wittfelder and Louis Dessart were German immigrants who opened the Woodcastle Hotel in the 1860s, a tourist destination with a dining room, bowling alley, general store, dance hall and more. The Massapequa Fire Department ‘Park House’ now stands where the hotel once did.

to her children. “She always encouraged us to get involved in our community as well,” said her daughter.

Her family’s legacy was memorialized in 1989, when the triangle of land between Front Street and Clark Boulevard was named the Heerlein-Rumfield Memorial Park and commemorated with a stone marker that reads: “In honor of all our founding families. Yea we have a goodly heritage. Psalm 16:6.”

This legacy lives on today: her family has had 6 generations live on the same block in Massapequa Park.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Bryson was predeceased by her daughter-in-law Joanie.

She is survived by her children

Members of the Historical Society of the Massapequas memorialized Mrs. Bryson: “Lillian “Lovey” Bryson was a special person who has touched all of our lives…We will forever cherish the wisdom, heart, and compassion of Lovey.”

“I believe my mother got her sense of dedication for the community from her mother, my grandmother,” said Lisa. “She was always involved and was also a good writer, frequently contributing to newspapers.”

And Mrs. Bryson handed that sense of commitment

Lisa Bryson-Brockman and her husband Bill of Massapequa Park, and Barry of Brooklyn, as well as her grandchildren: Gaby of Brooklyn, Rachel and her husband Christos of Astoria, and Sam and his wife Ellie of Pennsylvania, and great-grandchildren, Jayden, Sonny and Eleni Lillian.

She reposed at the Massapequa Funeral Home, North Chapel, 1050 Park Blvd., Massapequa Park on August 24, 2024. A memorial service will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, 23 Cedar Shore Dr., Massapequa, at a later date.

Donations in her name can be made to the church or to The Historical Society of the Massapequas, P.O. Box 211, Massapequa, NY 11758-0211

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. Thursday Worship 7:30 p.m.

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

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

SIMPSON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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 •

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.stmartinschurch.org School: www.smtschool.org 37 Union Ave. Amityville, NY 11701 • 631-264-0124

LILLIAN RUMFIELD BRYSON

OUR LOST

We continue to mourn the loss of our residents, and those with ties to our community who were killed in the terrorist attacks September 11, 2001, as well as those brave Americans who have lost their lives in defense of our country and in our national commitment against terrorism.

NAME WORK RESIDENCE

Angelini, Joseph Sr., FDNY

NAME WORK RESIDENCE

Levine, Robert Cantor & Fitzgerald West Babylon

Lindenhurst

Lindenhurst, Angelini, Joseph Jr., FDNY

Brennan, Frank Cantor & Fitzgerald Oak Beach

Cain, George FDNY

Massapequa

Caproni, Richard M. Marsh & McLennan North Babylon

Carson, James “Jay” Cantor & Fitzgerald Massapequa Park

Clyne, Susan Marsh & McLennan

Coakley, Steven FDNY

Lindenhurst

Deer Park

Colin, Robert D. West Babylon

Corbett, Joe Cantor & Fitzgerald West Islip

Cody, Patricia A.

New Jersey

Cosgrove, Kevin West Islip

Cross, Dennis FDNY Islip Terrace

Danz, Vincent, NYPD Farmingdale

Davis, Clinton

Debek, Tara Aon

Flushing

Babylon

DeAngelis, Thomas P. Westbury

DeAngelis, Robert Jr.

West Hempstead

DiStefano, Douglas West Islip

Downey, Raymond FDNY

Deer Park

Erker, Irwin Farmingdale

Healey, Michael FDNY

Fletcher, Andre FDNY

Gambino, Thomas FDNY

Massapequa

North Babylon

Babylon

Ganci, Peter, FDNY N. Massapequa

Geier, Paul Cantor & Fitzgerald Farmingdale

Guja, Geoffrey, FDNY

Haskell, Thomas Jr. FDNY

Haskell, Timothy, FDNY

Healey, Michael FDNY

Herold, Gary F. Aon

Hickey, Brian FDNY

Hoerner, Ronald

Iken, Michael

Johnston, William FDNY

Jones, Brian L. IBM

Jordan, Andrew FDNY

Jovic, Anthony FDNY

Kennedy, Thomas J. FDNY

Lindenhurst

Seaford

Massapequa Park

Farmingdale

Bethpage

Massapequa

Bronx, NY

West Babylon

Babylon

West Islip

Massapequa Park

Islip Terrace

Lee, Gary H. Cantor & Fitzgerald Oak Beach

Lillo, Carlos Babylon

Lynch, Louise Amityville

Lyons, Monica Kew Gardens

Mannetta, Debra Carr Futures Inc. Babylon/Islip

Marino, Lester, IBEW Seaford

Massa-Delosh, Kathy Farmingdale

McShane, Terence FDNY West Islip

Meisenheimer, Ray FDNY West Babylon

Jill Metzler Aon Babylon

Miller, Henry, Jr. Massapequa

Muldowney, Richard FDNY Babylon

Sgt. Matthew D. Garvey FDNY/ U.S. Marines Amityville

Nedell, Laurence Aon Lindenhurst

Daniel O’Callahan FDNY Massapequa

O’Berg, Dennis FDNY Babylon

O’Brien, Michael Cantor & Fitzgerald Massapequa

O’Neill, Peter Sandler & O’Neill Amityville

O’Shea, Patrick, Carr Futures Inc. Farmingdale

Otten, Michael FDNY Deer Park

Pascuma, Michael J. Massapequa Park

Poulos, Richard Levittown

Quackenbush, Christopher Sandler & O’Neill West Gilgo Beach

Rivelli, Joseph R. Jr. FDNY W. Islip/N.Babylon

Rizza, Paul Babylon

Rogan, Matthew FDNY West Islip

Rosen, Mark Sandler & O’Neil West Islip

Roy, Timothy NYPD Massapequa Park

Ruggiere, Bart Joseph Manhattan

Sarle, Paul Cantor & Fitzgerald Babylon

Schott, Frank G. Massapequa

Schroeder, John T. Hoboken, NJ

Smagala, Stanley S. Jr. FDNY Deer Park

Sullivan, Christopher FDNY Massapequa

Titolo, Michelle Copiague

Varacchi, Frederick T. Greenwich, Ct.

Vigiano II, John FDNY West Islip

Vigiano, Joseph FDNY Medford

Wiswall, David N. Massapequa

Zucker, Andrew Steven Riverdale

Families whose loved ones were lost on 9/11 or in the war on terror, and whose names are not listed here can call us and we will add them to our list. Call 516-569-4000, ext. 329 Richner Communications are the publishers of the Amityville, Babylon and Massapequa Herald newspapers

Ofﬁcial

STEPPING OUT

Mufﬁn

Apple Crisp

TAKE A BITE OUT OF FALL

Welcoming the season at the

By Karen Bloom

APPLE Orchards

Autumn’s many pleasures are upon us — and nothing says fall more than a visit to the apple orchards. September invigorates our spirits with all that makes this short-lived time of year so special: those crisp juicy apples, cider, pumpkins, harvest fairs. So gather everyone together and set out for a day of apple picking.

While apple season gets into high gear about now, there’s still time to pick through mid October, according to area growers.

Growers have plenty of apples for everyone to enjoy, including such favorites as Zestar, Macoun, HoneyCrisp, and, of course the perrenial Red Delicious, For eating straight from the bushel basket or off the tree, choose from the crisp juicy varieties: the old favorite McIntosh; the dense tart Granny Smith; the super-crisp, sweetly tart HoneyCrisp; the tart, juicy Paula Red; along with the more “exotic” varieties, such as Cortland, Empire, Jonagold and Crispin (also known as Mutsu).

Use McIntosh or Cortland for baking. Cortlands are a favorite cooking apple because their sweetness comes through so that less sugar is needed. They are also great in salads and good to eat as is, Rome and Empire are also favored for baking, as are Fuji, Crispin and Ginger Gold. In pies, a mix of varieties brings out the best ﬂavor. Try Crispin, Cortland, Rome, Granny Smith, and Northern Spy. For applesauce, try the Paula Red. And, of course, local farms are pressing those delicious batches of cider throughout the fall, and urge everyone to continue to “buy local.” When get home with your bounty, make some yummy apple treats.

Ofﬁcial New York State Apple Mufﬁn

Start off your morning with some apple goodness.

Mufﬁns:

• 2 cups New York State Empire apples, coarsely chopped

• 2 cups ﬂour

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon cloves

• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/2 cup raisins

• 1/2 cup walnuts

Don’t Stop Me Now…’ Queen-mania keeps on rockin’ as Killer Queen returns to the Paramount stage, with their homage to the beloved band. Formed in the UK in 1993, Killer Queen played their first public shows at London University, following in the footsteps of the real Queen who had their first shows there 22 years earlier. Even though the band never had any connection to Queen officially, their reputation continued to grow both in the UK and abroad. Fronted by Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury, critics have described Myers’ resemblance to Freddie Mercury as “spooky;” his uncanny likeness was further proven when he recorded a #1 hit single singing as Freddie Mercury on Fat Boy Slim’s “The Real Life.” Their expert musicianship, extraordinary energy, and accurate portrayal of the world’s greatest live band has rightfully earned them the title of Queen Royalty.

• 3 eggs, slightly beaten

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small pieces

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Topping:

• 1/2 cup walnuts

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 cup ﬂour

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon lemon peel, grated

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Combine topping ingredients and set aside. Combine flour, sugar, salt, spices and baking soda, and set aside. Combine apples, raisins, walnuts, eggs, butter, cream cheese, and vanilla. Add dry ingredients, a little at a time, to the apple mixture. Stir until just combined. Do not over-mix. Portion batter into muffin papers; sprinkle with topping. Bake at 375° F for 20-25 minutes. Makes two dozen muffins.

Apple Crisp

This warm and cozy crisp is the perfect fall treat.

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 5 whole apples of your choice (peeled and sliced)

For crumble:

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 cup ﬂour

• 1 cup old fashioned oats

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/3 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup almonds

• 1 tablespoon stick butter, melted

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350° F. Butter an 8-inch pie glass baking dish. In a bowl toss apples, 2 tablespoons of butter and brown sugar together. Then pour apple mixture into pie glass baking dish. Set to the side. In a medium bowl mix brown sugar, ﬂour, oatmeal, cinnamon, and salt together. Mix well. Then add in almonds, butter, and vanilla. Mix with hands to bring mixture together. Then top your apple mixture with oatmeal brown sugar mixture and place in the oven for 40 minutes. Remove from oven and serve with vanilla ice cream or eat on it’s own.

Thursday, Sept. 19, 8 p.m., $54.50, $44.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY. com.

Long Island Fair

The Long Island Fair, Old Bethpage Village’s authentic recreation of a 19th century county fair, always is a welcome fall event. This popular annual festival offers an appealing glimpse of days gone by. Stilt walkers traverse the grounds, entertainers enthrall families with puppets, juggling and storytelling, in addition to performances by brass bands, ﬁddlers and special guests. Historical demonstrations, agricultural displays and competitions, livestock shows, tractor rides, Civil War and Rough Rider reenactments bring the 19th century alive. The fair has been a part of Long Island history for 180 years — ﬁrst known as the Queens County Fair when it was sponsored by The Agricultural Society of Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties.

Friday through Sunday, Sept. 13-15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $20, $15 ages 5-12 and seniors. 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage. For information, contact (516) 572-8409 or visit OldBethpageVillageRestoration.org.

1964 … The Tribute

‘The “British Invasion” returns anew, when “1964 The Tribute” takes its audience on a musical journey back to that unforgettable era in rock history, on the Paramount stage, Friday, Sept. 20, 8 p.m. Since the early 1980s, this reincarnation of the Fab Four has been thrilling audiences all over the globe with what Rolling Stone Magazine has called the “Best Beatles tribute on earth.” Choosing songs from the pre-Sgt. Pepper era, “1964” astonishingly recreates an early ‘60s live Beatles concert, with period instruments, clothing, hairstyles, and onstage banter. The band focuses on the quintessential moment in history, when The Beatles actually played before a live audience.

Only a precious few got to experience when The Beatles toured the world in the early ‘60s. Who actually felt the “mania” that brought them to world acclaim. Today, all that remains are a few scant memories and some captured images in pictures and on poor quality film and video. “1964” meticulously re-creates the “magic of those live performances with artful precision and unerring accuracy. For those that never saw The Beatles live and always wanted to know what it must have been like, this may be as close as anyone could possibly get — to feel the magic. $65, $40, $30, $19.64. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

One-On-One Citizenship Appointments

Amityville Public Library is offering one-on-one informational appointments to discuss the general citizenship process and how to prepare for the citizenship test during September and October. Please note that no legal advice is given or offered at appointments. To make an appointment, call Mary at (631) 691-1619 ext. 117.

19 John St.

Religious education classes

St. Martin of Tours Church offers religious education classes for grades 1 through 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 Ave.

Paws

Walk returns

Get ready to lace up your sneakers and leash up your furry friends because the Paws Walk returns Sunday, Sept. 22 , starting at 9 a.m., at Belmont Lake State Park. Participants will be able to sign-in and grab a light breakfast at 8 a.m. Sponsored by Long Island Cares, the 5K route is perfect for runners, joggers and walkers of all levels. Please bring a non-perishable pet food item for a chance to win a BarkBox full of pet goodies or bring a nonperishable human food item to enter a raffle for a great human treat.

$40 per person in advance, $45 on day of the event. Includes a race t-shirt. Kids 12 and under can participate for free. To register, visit events. elitefeats.com/24pawswalk. For more information, visit licares.org or call (631) 5823663. 625 Belmont Ave., West Babylon.

TOB Small Business Networking Night

Kick-start your small business with a networking night hosted by the Town of Babylon, Thursday, Sept. 19 , 5:30-7:30 p.m. The event will be a night of networking to build new relationships and help grow your business. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet their local chambers of commerce and obtain resources to take their business to the next level. The event will also have live music, food trucks and giveaways. Babylon Town, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst. RSVP to Councilman Manetta at (631) 957-4482 or email amanetta@ townofbabylon.com.

Car Show Long Island

Check out the annual fall classic, Car Show Long Island, Sunday, Sept. 22 , 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at TOBAY Beach. Presented by Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Oyster Bay Town Board, the event will have a free concert, food truck corral, awards, vendors and more. Additional parking and shuttle service will be available at Jones Beach Field 5. Show gates will open at 8 a.m. and the rain date is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 29. This event is free to spectators. For more information, call (516) 7974121 or visit carshowli.com. TOBAY Beach, Ocean Pkwy, Massapequa.

Having an event?

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. Sept. 15

Original Gossip plays at LIMEHOF

Original Gossip from Farmingdale performs at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, Sunday, Sept. 15 , at 3 p.m. The band has over 40 original songs. Forming only 4 years ago, the band has already garnered a large fan base through social media and live performances. The concert is free with a general admission ticket. For more information, visit longislandmusichalloffame. org or call (631) 689-5888. 129 Main St., Stony Brook.

National scholarship program

Now through Sept. 30, applications are being accepted for the spring 2025 semester for the Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarship Program. Since 2006, Hope For The Warriors has awarded Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships twice a year.

The nationwide program recognizes and rewards post-9/11 spouses and caregivers for their strength, fidelity and resolve despite adversity as they assume critical roles in the financial well being of their families. Scholarships vary from $1,800 to $2,500 and are applied toward higher education at an accredited U.S. university, college, or trade school. To receive an application and learn about all scholarships offered for the spring 2025 semester, visit hopeforthewarriors.org and connect to services.

Art League of L.I. exhibit

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Art League of Long Island presents “Retrospect - The Individual Art of Collaboration in Reconstructive Surgery.” The exhibit delves into the interplay between personal artistry and collaborative efforts in the context of breast reconstruction, showcasing how the healing process can transcend medicine to become an inspiring narrative of restoration and personal resilience. This unique exhibition explores the intersection of medicine and art through the lens of two accomplished breast reconstruction surgeons, Dr. Ron Israeli and Dr. Jonathan Bank, whose careers and artistic endeavors are deeply intertwined.

The works on display show the multifaceted nature of artistic expression in medicine and surgery. Their work emphasizes the importance of collaborative creativity in the healing process, offering viewers a unique perspective on the emotional and physical aspects of breast reconstruction. On view Sept. 28 through Oct. 18. Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery at Art League of Long Island, 107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills. Visit artleagueli.org for more information.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, -againstHENRY THOMAS JR., ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 30, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST is the Plaintiff and HENRY THOMAS JR., 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 October 8, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 17 PINE ROAD, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100099.00-01.00-040.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 602719/2020. Robert A. Macedonio, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

24-511. 9/4, 11, 18, 25

“ NOTICE OF ADVERSE POSSESSION INDEX: 616792/2024 THE MATTER OF: HANZO ARIZA V. EDDIE HINES, 55 CHESTNUT ROAD, NORTH AMITYVILLE NY”

24-500. 8/21, 28, 9/4, 11

Public Notices — Your right to know

INDEX NO.: 622154/2018

Date Filed: October 18, 2023

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS WITH NOTICE MORTGAGED PREMISES: 36 Somerset Road East, Amityville, New York 11701

DSBL #: 0100-174.0004.00-002.000

Plaintiff designates SUFFOLK County as the place of trial; venue is based upon the county in which the mortgaged premises is situate.

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Citibank, N.A., Plaintiff, vs. Suffolk County Public Administrator as Administrator of the Estate of John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams; John C. Abrams, Jr. a/k/a John Abrams, Jr. Individually and as heir of the Estate of John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams; Juanita M. Abrams a/k/a Martha J. Abrams as Heir and Distributee of the Estate of John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams; Barry Abrams as Heir and Distributee of the Estate John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams, if living and if he be dead, his heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees, and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid defendants and all heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees, and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid classes of person, if they or any of them be dead, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to plaintiff, except as herein stated; Avery Abrams as Heir and Distributee of the Estate John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams; Unknown Heirs of The Estate of John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams, and all the heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid defendants, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid classes of person, if they or any of them be dead, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and all of whom and whose names and places of residence are un-

known to plaintiff, except as herein stated; United States of America o/b/o Internal Revenue Service; New York State Department of Taxation and Finance; Clerk of the Suffolk County District Court Traffic and Parking Violations Agency; Clerk of the Suffolk County District Court; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; John Doe #1 through #6, and Jane Doe #1 through #6, the last twelve names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants, tenants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Amended Complaint.

NOTICE

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY.

SENDING PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $198,251.00 and interest, recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County on March 10, 2006 in Liber M00021251, Page 816, covering premises known as 36 Somerset Road East, Amityville, New York 11701, DSBL #: 0100-174.00-04.00002.000.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. The Plaintiff also seeks a deficiency judgment against the Defendants and for any debt secured by said Mortgage which is not satisfied by the proceeds of the sale of said premises.

TO the Defendants Barry Abrams as Heir and Distributee of the Estate John C. Abrams a/k/a John Abrams, if living and if he be dead, his heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees, and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid defendants and all heirs-atlaw, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees, and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid classes of person, if they or any of them be dead, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to plaintiff, except as herein stated, the foregoing Supplemental Summons with Notice is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Paul M. Hensley, J.S.C. of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Suffolk, dated and filed July 30, 2024 and filed August 2, 2024.

Dated: August 27, 2024 /s/ Christhie M. Montero

Christhie M. Montero, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840

New York, New York 10170

Phone: 347.286.7409

Fax: 347-286-7414

Attorneys for Plaintiff, Citibank, N.A.

HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE

NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE

ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME.

PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE.

The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure.

In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process.

To locate an entity near you, you may call the tollfree helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or visit the Department's website at www.dfs.ny.gov.

FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS

Be careful of people who approach you with offers to "save" your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.

24-513 9/4, 11, 18, 25

Notice of Formation of JUNAID RAJANI DDS, PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/8/24. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The PLLC, c/o Junaid Rajani, 120 Broadway B, Amityville, NY 11701. Purpose: to practice the profession of Dentistry.

24-498 . 8/21, 28, 9/4, 11, 18, 25

Notice of formation of Lawrence “10” Wayne Enterprises, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State (SSNY) on 07/30/2024. offc located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 10 Leonard Place Amityville, NY 11701. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

24-489 8/14, 21, 28, 9/4, 11, 18

NOTICE In accordance with Notfor-Profit Corporation Law §1513-a, Beth Moses Cemetery Corporation, located at 1500 Wellwood Ave, West Babylon, NY 11704, is commencing the process to declare abandoned and reacquire certain unused gravesites on the grounds of INDEPENDENT SOCHOTZOWER YOUNG MEN’S SICK SUPPORT SOCIETY. Contact information: Beth Moses Cemetery Corporation c/o John Nolan (631-249-2290) September 2024 24-512. 9/4, 11, 18

Notice of formation of SJM MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 06/11/2024. Office located in county of Suffolk. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC at 54 Chestnut Rd. Amityville NY 11701. Purpose: any lawful purpose 24-516. 9/11, 18, 26, 10/2, 9, 16

Help Wanted

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

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REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

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Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

HANDYPERSON WANTED

Immediate Opening at our Garden City Location DESIRED SKILLS: Electrical * Welding * Carpentry Mechanical * Plumbing Part Time/Fulltime (benefits available with full time) $18-$30 per hour based on experience Richner Communications, Inc 2 Endo Blvd Garden City, NY 11530 Send resume to careers@lixtherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 ext 211

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Must Have Own Vehicle/Van This is an independent contractor role for Richner Communications Compensation based on stops starting at $275/week

If Interested contact Jim at jrotche@liherald.com or 516-569-4000 x211

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 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA

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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 $33,280 + 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 $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

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

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist

Health Care/Opportunities

Nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac overlooking the golf course, this 4 bedroom, 4 bath Split-Level gem in the heart of Lawrence is a mustsee!

All we want to do is move in

Q. We completed construction last year, and got a letter recently from our building department that our work was never “signed off.” We called the number of a person who turned out to be our building inspector, and after calling several times, we finally got them on the phone. That’s when we learned that our contractor never got a single inspection — not one — and that now we’re faced with getting a “design professional” to write a signed and sealed letter. We tracked down who our architect was — the one whose seal is on our building plans, since we never met them — and they don’t answer their phone. The contractor recommended another architect. What do we need to do or ask the other architect to get our final c/o?

A. Start by asking the architect if they can see through walls. Sounds like a job for Superman. The real problem here is that you, like many, got stuck by people who don’t take the process seriously and would have left you holding the bag had it not been for an official who was “just doing their job.”

Obviously, your inspector didn’t see the ongoing procedures of the work, and doesn’t want to lie and say they did, so they need someone else to do it. Instead of relying on the contractor, who should have called for inspections, they look for someone with a cape who can see hidden details. That someone is a licensed, state-designated responsible individual who may take the liability when something hidden is wrong — namely, an architect or engineer.

In such a situation, I always wonder why a homeowner wasn’t suspicious or concerned that they never met the licensed professional architect or engineer who would be ultimately responsible for their home’s strength, code compliance and safety. Based on my experience, most people show little understanding of or respect for why a certificate of completion or occupancy is needed, and regard it as a needless formality. Many building departments haven’t made it easier and people tell me they’re sorry they ever mentioned doing work.

Instead of helping people through the process and clearly explaining other potential issues, some delay the work, defer the communication to an architect and look for reasons not to release a permit without finding other “illegal” items, such as an air conditioner, shed, fence, deck, etc., that also need permits that were never gotten. This isn’t always true, because some officials are very helpful, so I hope the ones who are communicative don’t automatically take this to heart.

When I’m asked to get involved in such an issue, I ask for a notarized affidavit from the contractor who did the work that they stand behind the airsealing, insulation, fire-stopping and structure that they saw and were supposed to install, then I attach that sworn affidavit with a letter corroborating the visual inspection. Letters don’t hold up buildings, and nobody I’ve met can see through walls. Good luck!

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

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opinionS

The world must continue to hear us

Sept. 11, 2001, was the most tragic day in American history. It was also our finest hour, a demonstration of our nation’s courage, resilience and undying spirit.

Like so many Americans, I will always remember that horrible day, and the days that followed. I was in Washington that Tuesday. As in New York, the sky was exceptionally clear, the morning sun bright. The annual Congressional barbecue on the south lawn of the White House — the first one of George W. Bush’s presidency, was scheduled that night. Most members of Congress and their spouses would be there. My wife, Rosemary, had expected to fly down the night before, but torrential rains and violent thunderstorms had canceled all flights out of LaGuardia. She was rescheduled to come in Tuesday morning, on a flight due to land at Reagan International Airport at about 9:40.

Driving to Capitol Hill with my chief of staff, Rob O’Connor, I got a call at about 8:50 from my press secretary, who

told me that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. He’d learned this from my daughter, Erin, who was talking with her husband, John, who worked four blocks north of the towers and saw the crash from his office. This was the time Rosemary’s plane would have been taking off. At Delta’s congressional desk, the information was imprecise on the status of her flight.

AWalking into my office in the Cannon Building at 9:01, I looked up at the television in the reception area and saw a massive jet crashing into a tower, and assumed it was a video replay. Seconds later I realized it was the second plane. Delta had no update for 20 minutes, and Rosemary’s cellphone kept going to voicemail.

airport and take Rosemary home to Seaford.

t least 150 of my friends, neighbors and constituents died on Sept. 11.

At 9:46, the Pentagon was attacked, and I ordered the office evacuated. There was also a report — which turned out to be false — that a bomb had gone off on the Capitol Mall, near the Commerce Department, where my son, Sean, worked. Again there was uncertainty, as the phone lines at Commerce had gone dead, and it was 20 minutes before I knew Sean was safe. Meanwhile, Erin’s husband, John, who had to race down 28 flights of stairs to get out of his building, didn’t have a cellphone. It was a while before he could call Erin from a pay phone on 59th Street and we knew he was safe.

In the following days, the New York, New Jersey and Virginia congressional delegations met with President Bush at the White House, and a number of us traveled to ground zero when the president, with Baldwin resident and retired firefighter Bob Beckwith at his side, made his famous bullhorn speech, pledging that the terrorists would “hear all of us soon!”

In the ensuing weeks and months, there were seemingly endless wakes and funerals, with the stirring and somber tones of drums and bagpipes. The country was united, standing as one to an extent we have not seen since. Petty partisanship was set aside, and promises were made never to forget.

When I got through to her at about 9:20, her plane was headed from the runway back to the terminal. She and the other passengers had no idea why their flight had been canceled. Her main concern was how she was going to make it to Washington for the barbecue. As I was telling her that New York was under attack, I could hear the pilot making an announcement and passengers shrieking. My district director, Anne Rosenfeld, was able to get back to the

So all my family members were safe. But many others weren’t so fortunate. Firefighter Michael Boyle, who had worked on my campaigns and was the son of my longtime friend Jimmy Boyle, was killed, as were the Haskell brothers, Tom and Timmy, FDNY heroes and graduates of Seaford High School. And Farrell Lynch and his brother, Sean, from Cantor Fitzgerald, who had helped with my campaigns. And so many more. Almost 3,000, including at least 150 of my friends, neighbors and constituents.

As we commemorate Sept. 11, we must try to recapture that spirit of unity as we remember those who were killed that tragic day, and the thousands who have died since, or who are suffering from 9/11-related illnesses. We must continue to guard against the terrorist forces of Al Qaeda, ISIS and their affiliates, who are as determined today as they were 23 years ago to destroy us and our way of life.

The world must continue to hear us. God bless America!

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

Some hits and some errors, but no game-changers

Less than two months before Election Day, it’s anybody’s guess as to who will win the big prize. By the time this reaches print, the two major presidential candidates will have had their debate, which by itself may decide who has earned the label of frontrunner. But there are a few factors that could be deal breakers for former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris. A few months ago, virtually no one had heard of Project 2025. For any new readers, Project 2025 is the 900-page product of the Heritage Foundation, an ultra-conservative think tank that has enormous clout among Trump supporters. Among the organization’s major victories is its success in gaining support for Trump’s appointment of three Supreme Court justices, who were responsible for overturning Roe v. Wade.

Project 2025 is an-in depth outline of how a Trump presidency should be conducted if he is able to win a second

term. Because it calls for a demolition of the federal government, it is fast becoming a major issue for Democrats, who vigorously claim that Trump has fully embraced its contents. Trump keeps denying even any knowledge of its existence. The denials have fallen flat, considering that the vast majority of the foundation staffers who wrote the manifesto worked in the previous Trump administration. Project 2025 may or may not become a problem for the Republican Party, depending on how many people come to understand its contents and how it would damage our democracy. Aside from being saddled with that potential fallout, Republicans have yet to benefit from the candidacy of Sen. J.D. Vance in his role as Trump’s potential vice president. Vance was chosen before President Biden withdrew from the race, and it’s possible that if the Trump people had known that was going to happen, they would have chosen a female candidate who might resonate better with voters. But Vance got the nod with the blessing of Donald Trump Jr. and his brother Eric. To date,

Vance has attracted much more negative press than positive, which is the last thing a presidential candidate needs.

o n any one day, at any hour, a mistake can turn a campaign upside down.

Usually, candidates for high office are very carefully vetted, which includes reviewing their speeches and writings, and checking out their personal conduct. In Vance’s case, there appears to have been little perusal of any kind. He has made numerous speeches and written frequently, and many of those specimens have been the focus of negative press.

When Trump ran in 2016, Vance stated on Facebook, “I go back and forth between thinking Trump is a cynical A-hole like Nixon or he is an American Hitler.” He has also called Trump an “idiot” and compared him to Hitler. But Vance now sings Trump’s praises, calling him a historic candidate and “highly qualified.” Vance has also cast a few votes in his short tenure in the Senate that will haunt him right up to Nov. 5.

Harris’s campaign for the White House got off to a fast start, propelled by a well-run Democratic National Convention. She has attracted a broad

— yet

range of support from young voters and women, and has been well received by minority voters. Her performance in this week’s debate may make or break her candidacy, or just keep her going until she gets a boost or makes a fatal mistake.

Trump has stumbled badly on the issue of women’s reproductive rights, and it’s doubtful that he can successfully get it off his back. He has claimed that he’s a strong supporter of women’s rights, but he can’t escape his own bragging about having been responsible for reversing Roe v. Wade. This issue will hurt Republican down-ballot candidates as well.

Eight weeks sound like a short time for most people, but in politics it feels like forever. On any one day, at any hour, a mistake can turn a campaign upside down. Having been involved in multiple campaigns as either a candidate or an analyst, I know how easy it can be for a politician to implode. So, like Yogi Berra said, it ain’t over till it’s over.

Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

HeraLd editoriaL

Let’s shake on prioritizing sportsmanship

the return of fall scholastic sports on Long Island is the first opportunity of the new school year to remind athletes, coaches, parents and the fans in the stands of the importance of sportsmanship.

HERALD

We’ve heard the refrain for decades that sports build character. The aspects of competition that do that include not just listening to coaches’ instructions, learning techniques and plays and practicing hard, but also — every bit as important — respecting your opponent and those who officiate athletic contests.

One of the most vital lessons young competitors can learn is to be fair and gracious, in both victory and defeat. After giving it their all on the field, on the court or in the pool, and then acknowledging their opponents’ efforts, student-athletes show respect for their competitors, and themselves, that ultimately makes them better people, more mindful of relationships in all phases of their lives.

Taking part in school sports introduces young people to teamwork, in all of its permutations — winning, losing, cooperation, conflict — and the lessons of sportsmanship learned on playing fields are among the keys to developing a well-rounded character.

The National Federation of State High School Associations emphasizes that sportsmanship is an expectation that athletes, coaches and fans alike should uphold. Shaking hands after a

Letters

So we shouldn’t fight climate change at all?

To the Editor:

You almost have to admire the bravery of Robert Kralick (“Long Islanders can’t fight climate change alone,” Letters, Sept. 5-11) and those who think like him, as it were. Indeed, it takes great courage to make public the depths of one’s apathy.

Would Mr. Kralick have Nassau County dismiss its police force because there will always be more criminals? Perhaps all human efforts to improve are moot because Earth will eventually, inevitably be swallowed by the sun. The argument against reducing our use of fossil fuels because other countries use more fossil fuels is cynical at best, and nonsensical at worst. Any reduction here — in Nassau County, in New York, in the United States — means a reduction overall, which can, and will, have a salutary effect on the worsen-

game, avoiding trash talk and respecting referees’ decisions reinforce the concept that everyone is equal on the field, and that every player deserves respect.

A 2019 study by the Aspen Institute found that participation in youth sports improves social skills, including empathy, patience and cooperation. Some 83 percent of student-athletes surveyed for the study reported that sports had taught them the importance of respecting others — not just their opponents, but their own teammates and coaches as well.

Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping the behavior and values of student-athletes. The way they handle both wins and losses sets an invaluable example for their players. According to a study by the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, student-athletes whose coaches emphasized respect and teamwork, reinforcing fair play in both practices and games, were significantly more likely to manifest those qualities among their teammates and opponents.

Parents also shape their children’s understanding of good sportsmanship. We’ve all seen parents who appear to be living vicariously through their kids, or reliving their own glory days. That can lead them to exert too much pressure on their children. Some 75 percent of young athletes surveyed for a study by the Journal of Sports Behavior said that excessive parental pressure to succeed created anxiety, and detracted from their

enjoyment of the game.

When parents emphasize winning over playing with integrity, and pass down a “win-at-any-cost” mentality, that undermines the principles of sportsmanship. Parents, and others in the bleachers, can instead reinforce those principals by modeling respectful behavior. Cheering for the team, acknowledging the efforts of both sides and refraining from criticizing referees are simple but powerful ways parents can teach their children the importance of fairness.

By maintaining a positive attitude toward the game, regardless of the outcome, parents provide a strong example for their children. And they should talk with them about the importance of sportsmanship, to reinforce the idea that success in sports isn’t just about winning.

In a 2020 study by Project Play, a vast majority of youth athletes acknowledged that sports taught them how to respect authority figures, such as referees and coaches. As they come to understand that referees are responsible for ensuring fairness, youngsters learn the importance of respecting the rules that govern not only sports, but life in general.

As the school sports seasons unfold, and students navigate the highs and lows of competition, with the guidance of their coaches and the support of their parents, no lessons they will learn will be more important than sportsmanship.

opinions Seeking post-pandemic healing in the woods

acold wind, as loud as a trumpet, whipped across the summit of Mount Marcy, New York’s highest peak in the Adirondacks, on Aug. 17. I could see only feet in front of me, because the mountain, at 5,344 feet above sea level, was enveloped by clouds. Then a light rain started to patter across the rocky slab at my feet.

I was in a dreamscape, surrounded by massive boulders and tall piles of rocks called cairns, intended to guide hikers through stormy conditions. Then, out of the fog, two 20-something hikers appeared like apparitions, wearing nothing more than shorts, T-shirts and sneakers, each carrying but one small water bottle.

The two moved across the steep, slippery rock like cats, seemingly unfazed by the increasingly concerning weather. One pulled out a short joint and inhaled it all at once. He and his hiking partner stood at Marcy’s highest point and joked that they were the highest men in New

York. Then they asked if we — my son, Andrew, my soon-to-be son-in-law, Matteo, and I — would like our photo taken at the summit. We did, and the fellow toking the joint obliged.

The pair were from Massachusetts, but mostly hiked in New Hampshire, they said. They had never climbed Mount Marcy before. I remarked that I had last made the ascent 45 years ago.

“What were you, 3?” the smoker asked.

“Actually, I was 12.”

“Whoa.”

DI’m a nearly lifelong Long Islander accustomed to a virtually flat landscape, and the Adirondack High Peaks region has lived in my imagination since I first visited the area as a Boy Scout with Troop 79, in Suffolk County, during my middle school years. I could never reconcile in my mind the massiveness of the mountains, the sheer grandeur of them. Even as a child, I understood how special they were, and how fortunate I was to visit them.

take in the spectacular view (on a clear day, it’s said you can see Mount Royal, in Montreal, 65 miles away, from Marcy’s summit), but my older self understood how privileged I was to be in this place. To be consumed by the weather was an experience unto itself, one part eerie, one part mystical.

espite the fog atop Mount Marcy, I understood how privileged I was to be there.

I had decided during the coronavirus pandemic that I wanted — I needed — to return to Mount Marcy, and I wrote about that desire in a Herald column in March 2021, “Reflections on a pandemic year.” I was the Heralds’ executive editor at the time, and like so many people then, I was exhausted, mentally as well as physically, having covered the pandemic for a year. My mind often wandered to the forests of my childhood, both on Long Island and in the Adirondacks and Catskills. I longed for the quiet and solitude of the woods.

I climbed Bear Mountain, in New York’s Hudson Highlands, with my wife, Katerina, in June. It was a distressingly hot day, but we made it. Then Andrew and Matteo proposed that we climb Marcy this summer, and I was all in. I didn’t hesitate. Now it’s on to Katahdin, in Maine, hopefully in one of the coming summers.

The experiences of climbing Bear Mountain and Mount Marcy were made more special and lasting in my memory because I shared them with family. Only my daughter, Alexandra, was missing, but I’m certain she will be trekking with us into the mountains in the near future.

Like so many, I was hyper-focused on my work during the pandemic. It was all we had. I still love my work — now as a full-time Hofstra University journalism professor. But to this day, more than a year after the official end of the “Covid19 emergency” in May 2023, my mind often drifts to the woods, to nature. It is there that we find the psychic and spiritual healing that so many of us still so desperately need.

On the day Andrew, Matteo and I made our ascent, the weather was less than ideal. A younger version of me might have been disappointed not to

Letters

ing global climate. But maybe those who would rather do nothing didn’t bother to learn simple math because the Chinese already know math.

MATTHEW DAvID BROzIK

Merrick

We shouldn’t fight it with offshore wind projects

To the Editor:

In his recent letter to the Herald (“Fossil fuels, offshore wind and the need for climate action,” Aug. 29-Sept. 4), Jim Brown, of the South Shore Audubon Society, stressed the benefits of moving rapidly toward 100 percent renewable energy, expressing specific support for the offshore wind turbines now popping up in many places off our East Coast shoreline.

Mr. Brown neglected to point out that the projected cost of wind energy for New York state is $131 per megawatt hour (and $101 per megawatt hour, net, after subsidies from the Inflation Reduction Act), compared with a current average cost of $37 per megawatt hour. We should expect a significant increase in the cost of energy in New York as we move toward 100 percent “renewable energy.” This additional cost will be a tremendous burden to all users, with particular hardship for those on lower and fixed incomes.

Mr. Brown also neglected to mention the thousands of birds killed by these giant shredding machines every year across our land and oceans. One would expect that this dangerous threat to our bird population would be top of mind for someone speaking on behalf of the Audubon Society. It’s quite sad that this didn’t warrant a mention in his letter.

SEAN D. CROWLEY

Former member, South Shore Audubon Society Rockville Centre

Why is Peter King criticizing J.D. Vance?

To the Editor:

Re Peter King’s column “vance needs to get his immigrant story straight” (Aug. 29-Sept. 4): I could never argue intelligently on the topic of immigration in the 19th or early 20th century, and I am certain that Mr. King is much more educated about the details than, obviously, J.D. vance. But what I did find offensive was King’s obvious attempt to insult and denigrate the candidate who is running for office in what I believed to be King’s political party.

I have heard King constantly criticizing President Trump, and each time he does, I lose a little more respect for him. At such a hazardous time in our country, where, truly, our freedom is at stake,

“I hope to climb Bear Mountain, Mount Marcy and Mount Katahdin again, and perhaps others as well,” I wrote. “I hope. I hope. I hope. We must keep hope alive to remember why we should do all we can to survive these terrible and terrifying times.”

Scott Brinton is an assistant professor of journalism, media studies and public relations at Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. ©Scott A. Brinton. Comments? scott.brinton@hofstra.edu.

Framework courtesy Sharon Unger

it is perplexing to me that a former congressman who benefited from the support of the Republican Party, and those who voted for him, unnecessarily risks turning votes away from the candidates who have the only real chance of getting our country back on track.

I always voted for King, and I

thought he did a good job, but of late I am deeply disappointed in his arrogance and obvious egotistical behavior. Perhaps he should pray for guidance before sharing his opinions.

SUSAN and BRUCE COFFEY Amityville

At the Mendenhall Glacier — outside Juneau, Alaska

sCott Brinton

A High School Reunion to remember in Amityville

Members of the Amityville High School classes of 1968-1970 held a multiclass reunion the weekend of Friday and Saturday, August 23 and 24.

The weekend-long event began at 6 p.m. on Friday with dinner and a meetand-greet at the Amityville Beach pavilion

The following day, the group met for dinner at Carney’s Irish Pub and Restaurant on Broadway in Amityville, giving them another chance to get reacquainted, socialize and dance.