Amityville Herald 10_09_2024

HERALD AMITYvIlle

ReCORD

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

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

The annual Amityville Apple Festival brought a plethora of locals and vendors out for a fruit-filled favorite on a honey-crisp fall day Sat., Oct. 5.

Themed around apples, the festival offered a wide variety of freshly picked New York State apples for sale, including Golden and Red Delicious, Granny Smith and Honey Crisp. Also, to festival-goers delight, there were the traditional apple doughnuts and pies and apple cider.

Vendor coordinator Joe

Shop at Village-wide garage sale in Amityville

The Village of Amityville’s first-ever community garage sale will take place on Sat., Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the Village. More than 50 homes have already signed up to participate, making Amityville a browser and shopper paradise. A bounty of treasures will be offered, including clothing, decorative and craft items, books, novelties, as well as tools, furniture and other mis

cellaneous household merchandise.

“This is our take on a popular event that has been successful in many other towns and villages,” said Amityville Village Mayor Dennis M Siry. “It’s a nice community event that will bring in people to our Village and also help out some of our local businesses.”

To view the current list of sale locations, click on this

shorturl.at/Bepvp, use your portable device to view the QR code on the flyer shorturl.at/ dmy5j or visit Amityville.com. Note that in the event of rain, the sale will take place on Sun., Oct. 20.

The garage sale extends from neighborhoods south of Sunrise Highway to the Great South Bay, and from County Line Road on the western boundary to the areas off Bayview/South

Bayview Avenue to the east.

The Village reminds shoppers to drive safely and adhere to all traffic rules and parking signs, especially in the residential neighborhoods. To sign up for the sale, Village residents may contact Amityville Village Hall at 631-2646000. Happy shopping!

Photo Credit/Herald

Charlotte and Connor Morin taking a fall photo shoot at the Amityville Rotary Club’s annual Apple Festival.

Amityville Rotary Apple Festival was good to the very core

Continued from Page 1

Morin, of the Amityville Rotary Contin Club, which hosted the festival, said this particular event has been taking place for about 54 years and is all about the community. “It’s a feel-good thing that brings the community together,” said Morin, adding that they can never have enough apples, apple turnovers, doughnuts and pies each year because attendees really enjoy all the apple-themed treats.

Morin’s daughter Amanda attended with her children, Charlotte and Connor, and noted that her son and daughter couldn’t wait until they got home to start enjoying the apples.

Vendors at this year’s Apple Festival, which was held on the Park Avenue School grounds, included Crafty Mel Gifts, Darlien’s Den, the Amityville Chamber of Commerce, Melly’s Fashions, Amityville Teachers’ Association, Katmandoo Designs, New York Life, Pampered Chef-Kelly Bauerfeind, the Amityville Junior League, and the Amityville Library.

“This is my second year coming to this fair,” said Darlien Milton of Darlien’s Den, who added that what she enjoys the most about this event

is seeing the people she knows from the community come out to support each other and enjoy a beautiful fall day. She added that the organizers for this event are “great.”

Melissa Cascio of Crafty Mel Gifts commented on the weather. “It’s gorgeous weather for a fair,” she said. “I’m happy to be here.”

Attendee Justyna Balicka, a new orthodontist in Amityville, came with friends and remarked on this event being great for meeting other local community members. “And the weather today is perfect,” she added.

“I saw the banner on Main Street and wanted to check it out,” said Kimberly Rumpf, adding that she loves this time of year and “everything fall.”

Laura Osofsky and Patricia Wagner, members of St. Paul’s Church in Amityville, both said that they came to support their community. “It’s a great event to support small businesses,” said Osofsky. Wagner added that it was also a great event to find unique birthday gifts.

“I love the Amityville community,” said Conner Hickey of New York Life in Melville, and Rebecca Waite of the

Amityville Junior League remarked that this event is a “great way to welcome fall.”

Morin said that all the proceeds from the event go toward supporting

the Rotary Club and its numerous charitable endeavors, including the Gift of Life Program that helps provide live-saving heart surgery to children from Third-World countries.

At right, Conner Hickey and Spyro Koutsoubis

Below, Maggie Battcher staffs the Rotary table

Above, Attendees Kimberly Rumpf and Marlon Ulloa enjoying the Rotary Apple Festival.

of New York Life

Photos/Herald

Left, Virginia Belling, Foundation Chair at Amityville Rotary Club and Kevin Battcher, Chair of the Apple Festival for the Amityville Rotary Club. Right, Darlien Milton of Darlien’s Den.

Justyna Balicka, Natalia Ortiz, Chelsea Moran and Veronica Moran.

Richard Schmoll of West Babylon continues journey with TOPS

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

Richard Schmoll of West Babylon may be the only male member of Lindenhurst’s TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), but that didn’t deter him from joining when he recognized the need for a healthier lifestyle.

“I started putting on some weight and having health issues like arthritis, so I knew something had to change,” Richard said, noting that he found inspiration and support from the eight members of the local TOPS chapter.

Richard lost 32 pounds through TOPS, a non-profit organization dedicated to weight loss, education, and support. He was named the TOPS King for losing more weight than any other male member in New York.

The Lindenhurst chapter meets every Tuesday night at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. After weigh-ins, discussions focus on dieting, recipes, and strategies for maintaining weight loss through healthy food choices and exercise.

Richard joined after his wife, Debra, who has been a member for eight years, encouraged him. She helps him with portion control.

“It’s such a great group,” Debra said. “It’s about accountability, and you just have to keep moving forward.” She added that she enjoys walking more with Richard since he lost weight.

“It has been worthwhile,” Richard said, emphasizing that the group provides valuable information to maintain healthy habits.

Reflecting on his success, Richard expressed surprise. “It wasn’t really on my radar,” he said. “I was just trying to reach my goal weight, which I did.”

After being named New York King, Richard’s new goal is weight maintenance, and he is participating in the KOPS (Keeping Off Pounds Sensibly) program. His recognition included a ceremony where his weight loss journey was shared, along with a candlelight procession. “It was very overwhelming,” he said.

Richard also noted other benefits from losing weight, saying, “I have more confidence at work and feel more positive.” He mentioned that he was once self-conscious about his appearance.

Richard works for the 1199 Hospital Employees Union alongside Debra, and has two children, Richard Jr. and Benjamin. He continues to focus on portion control and exercises at the gym three days a week, using the rowing machine and treadmill. He and Debra also walk together whenever they can. His advice for those hesitant to join a group like TOPS is simple: “Give it a try.” Regarding exercise, he recommends starting slowly and not overdoing it.

“I think it’s great that Richard reached his goal,” said Irene Norton, leader of the Lindenhurst TOPS chapter. “We have a wonderful group here, and seeing someone from our group succeed boosts everyone.”

“It has encouraged us to want to be named Queen,” joked member Kerry Accardi.

The Lindenhurst chapter has been active since 1948, operating on the premise that they are not a diet, but a lifestyle.

For more information about TOPS and to find a chapter near you, visit tops.org or call the headquarters at (414) 482-4620.

CRIME WATCH

The following incidents have been reported by the Amityville and Suffolk County police departments and other fire and law enforcement agencies.

POLICE RESPOND TO DISTURBANCE

Amityville: Amityville PO’s Carley Fahey and Robert Antonellis responded to a call about fighting at Broadway and Oak Street on Sept. 26 shortly after 10 p.m. Upon arriving at the scene, the officers began to disperse the crowd. An intoxicated male became combative with police. He was subdued and taken by ambulance to Good Samaritan Hospital. He refused to give police his identification information.

LOST PROPERTY

Amityville. A resident of South Ketcham Avenue reported the loss of several items from his boat over several weeks including nets. The boat was in the back of his home at the time of the thefts. The report was filed September 23, but the losses were first noticed earlier that month.

BIKE STOLEN

Amityville: A vintage green Schwinn bike, equipped with a cooler, was stolen from the west side of the Amityville Fire Department. It has been left there on. Sept. 21 unlocked. The theft occurred between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Alfredo Rivera, 309 Wurcz St., Brentwood; Danielle Williams, 35, Cedar Drive, Bay Shore (no house number listed); Christian Velasconaranjo, 46, 55 Corey La., East Meadow; Carlos Gaviria, 52, 248 Silver St., West Babylon; Jennifer Myers, 37, 782 Bermuda Rd., West Babylon

Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Danielle Giannini, 43, 15 Raleigh Lane, Kings Park

Grand Larceny: Jean Simon, 35, 17 W. Kissmee Rd., Lindenhurst

Petit Larceny: Thomas Koehler, 36, 18 Sophia Court, West Babylon; Cristobal Ceradocineros, 62, 898 Goodrich St., Uniondale

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.

NEWS BRIEFS

Kiwanis

reminder: be sure to renew your Hometown Heroes banners

The Kiwanis of Lindenhurst announce that it’s time to renew your banners for the Hometown Heroes Banner Program.

To renew the display of your Hometown Heroes for 2025, the cost is $100 if you submit payment by the deadline of

October 15. After the deadline, the cost will be $125. Proceeds go toward local children’s and veterans’ organizations.

To renew and for more information, please visit lindenhurstkiwanis.org/renew or call (631)-388-7891.

Keep Your Change inaugurates its Sneaker Ball, Fri., October 18

The Keep Your Change (KYC) Inaugural Sneaker Ball will be taking place on Fri., Oct 18 at 6 p.m. at Helen Butler Hall at the Dominican Village in Amityville.

Proceeds from the Inaugural KYC Sneaker Ball will go toward supporting various programs and initiatives that promote Keep Your Change, an organization that teaches students how to be successful in the classroom. The ball will also be honoring Community All-Stars, Rev. Dr. Keith Hayward, Dan Lloyd, Andrew AyodejI and Sgt. Apryl Hargrove. Tickets are

$125 for a single seat up until Fri., Oct 11, and then the cost is $150. The cost for a 10-person table is $1,000. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well as journal advertisements.

For additional ticket offers and group rates, please email kimshea@kycinc.org

For more information about sponsorship opportunities and journal advertisements, please email ldaniels@kycinc.org or visit keepyourchangeinc.org.

Helen Butler Hall at Dominican Village is located at 75 Albany Ave., Amityville.

Get your ghost on for SUMC’s

‘trunk or treat’ event

Simpson United Methodist Church is hosting a Trunk or treat event on Thurs., Oct. 26 from 2 to 4 p.m., at the church, 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. Free Trick or Treating and event goers

October 26

are encouraged to attend in costume. There’s also a chance to. vote for the best decorated car. Rain cancels the event. For more information call Mary at (516) 991-8098.

Before and after photo of Richard Schmoll, 2023 TOPS New York King

Town of Babylon Pickleball Tournament nets winners

The 4th annual Town of Babylon beginner invitational pickleball tournament was held in Tanner Park in Copiague in late August. Twelve players representing six teams played a round robin format.

“It was a perfect day to play,” said director Hank Carpenter.

Players included Dan O’Callaghan, Nicole Baron, Hazel McEachin, Jean Caravello, Anthony Nastro, Christine Knespler, Ginny Neal, Lorraine Bushery, Annette D’Amato, Maria Massot, Michele Koetzner and Sue Brotowski.

Medal winners were: 1st place, Anthony Nastro and Christine Knespler; 2nd place, Ginny Neal and Lorraine Bushery; 3rd place Dan O’Callaghan and Nicole Baron.

Non medal winners received a jar of pickles.

BV Historical Society presents The 40’s in film: The War

The Babylon Village Historical Society will be presenting The 40’s in Film: The war, the homefront and the birth of film-part 1 on Fri., Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Babylon Historical Society.

For more information, please call (631)-669-1756.

The Babylon Village Historical Society is located at 117 West Main Street, Babylon.

Long Island Builders host networking meeting

On Wednesday, September 4 the Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI) held its first Associate Council meeting since the spring. The Long Island Builders Institute is the largest homebuilding advocacy group in New York State, made up of almost 800 companies consisting of the island’s largest homebuilders and associated trades. Their Associate Council meets regularly to discuss ways to better network with builders and to be aware of issues facing the industry.

This meeting focused on celebrating ‘Associate Appreciation Month’, a nationally recognized month where homebuilding organizations highlight how important and essential associate members are to their organization. Martin Dettling, Executive Vice President of the Albanese Organization and President of the Long Island Builders Institute took this time as an opportunity to present Beth Howard Price with an Associate Appreciation award. “Her dedication and commitment to not only this organization, but to our industry, deserves to be recognized.” Detting said.

“LIBI is all about connecting reputable people and businesses within our industry. The Associate Appreciation month highlights the contributions of the many associate members that we have,” said John Tudisco, LIBI member and Senior Architectural & Design Rep at Tilebar.

“It is always great to catch up with colleagues and learn about LIBI’s new opportunities. It was extra special to be recognized and celebrated today as an associate member, and we really appreciate the thoughtful gesture,” says Sheree Jeanes, Project & Commercial Sales Manager at Symmetry Closets.

“Our associates do so much for us, so this was our way of giving them an opportunity to have direct access to the

builders they may be looking to work with but haven’t had an opportunity to introduce themselves yet,” adds Lois Fricke, Operations Director of LIBI.

For details on the Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI), visit libi.org. Promotional items for businesses are printed as a courtesy by this newspaper, space permitting. Send items for consideration to us at acjames@liherald.com

Photos courtesy/ Brooke Carpenter

A blessing in every paw

“A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.” - St. Francis of Assisi (11811226)

October 4th is the feast day for St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals, Italy, San Franciso, and founder of the Franciscan religious order. Christian churches host pet blessings the first weekend of this month.

This feast day is observed in North America, Australia, and most of Europe. It is interesting to note that Türkiye, primarily a Muslim country, calls October 4th “Pet Day” to promote kindness to animals.

In 2021, Rebecca and Kyle, members of the pet ministry at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City, the Episcopal headquarters for Nassau County, asked Last Hope Animal Rescue if we were interested in partnering with the church to do supply drives and other projects for our pets. They would also offer online pet bereavement counseling to anyone interested.

It is as if the Cathedral has “adopted” our rescue organization. Besides the initial joint efforts, Last Hope has sent coats from our thrift shop to the church’s Long Island locations for the needy, and the Cathedral congregation was a generous contributor to our fundraiser for people and pet victims of the Turkish earthquake in 2023.

Cathedral Pet

Blessing 2024

This past Saturday was a beautiful day for a beautiful pet blessing at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City. Long Island Golden Retriever Rescue attended also. The outdoor setting is the lovely dog park fenced around the Mercer Divinity School.

via the Cathedral. Since then, she has become a Last Hope cat volunteer.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

During refreshments and socializing, the clergy gave individual blessings to each pet who “asked”. Goodies Galore! Hot dogs, snacks, and Somerset Brewery ales with a choice of pumpkin ale with a margarita-style rim of sugar and cinnamon, or a dark German blend. Yes, beer. I venture the Cathedral’s blessing may be the only church in the Western Hemisphere to serve homemade brew. It was a “religious experience “.

Special canines blessed included Hildy, a blind St. Bernard; Pharaoh, a young, deaf Saluki and Oakley, a former Greyhound track dog whose racing name was Mickey Dolenz after the Monkees band member.

Last Hope adoptable Beagle pups- Mollie and Bentley- mingled with the fifty or so dogs there. Some dogs were wearing angel wings in preparation for their benediction. Amelia, a Last Hope alumna Beagle, was present with volunteer Janis who adopted her from Last Hope almost 12 years ago.

Frankie our new Last Hope ambassadog, a fourpound Toy Poodle with crooked front paw, aged somewhere from nine to 16 years old, was liturgically blessed, the first time in her neglected life. My humane education partner Sue pushed her tiny Frankie around in a pink stroller while we told visitors her sad story.

Dean Michael and Father Eddie, assisted by Rebecca, recited the readings and blessing of the pack of pups and two cats: “Lord God, you inspired St. Francis to call all animals his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless these animals.”

Ironically, Rebecca had adopted two black kittens I trapped in Babylon Village before we knew each other

Woofie’s Mobile Pet Grooming was set up on the grounds and offered a portion of proceeds for nail clippings done yesterday to Last Hope. We brought cars full of supply donations from church members back to Last Hope. Believe in Blessings and a Cat Coincidence

On St. Francis Day 2021, Dean Michael, Rebecca, and Kyle came to Last Hope in Wantagh so Dean Michael could bless each one of our dogs and cats. They came bearing gifts- tons of pet food and other goodies. Special attention was given to a Golden mix with severe skin allergies, a Lab undergoing heartworm treatment, and a cat in remission from cancer.

Jax was alone in the big cage as you enter the cat adoption area. He made his presence known to the clergy and received his blessing.

Rebecca said later he reminded her of a beloved cat she had long ago.

After the Cathedral visitors left that day, Jax’s future mom called our cat adoption coordinator inquiring about Jax because something about his Petfinder photo attracted her. Yes, on October 4th. At the time she knew nothing about Jax just being blessed.

Two weeks later when registering Jax’s microchip, I filled in his address and noticed Jax lived at the same house number on Cathedral Avenue in Hempstead as the Cathedral’s number on Cathedral Avenue in Garden City. Jax can see the Cathedral from his window perch.

Will Mollie’s blessing come through for her too? At the Saturday blessing, a couple with a female Beagle were admiring our Mollie Beagle from a Kentucky shelter. On Sunday, the couple came to Last Hope to see her again and put in an application.

Reflect on this: Each pet in attendance is doubly blessed- by the Cathedral priests and by their caretakers/owners who cherish them. Or by their future owners? For Mollie, maybe. Bet St. Francis was beaming down on Mollie and pets blessed everywhere!

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, OCTOBER 10

• Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call President Michele Camilleri at (631) 598-1700 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

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11

• Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569

• St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631)-464-4899.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12

• Amityville Farmer’s Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church Lawn, 25 Broadway, Amityville. Sponsored by the Bay Village Civic Association. For more information, please email amityfarmersmarket@gmail.com or bayvillagecivic@aol.com

• Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631)-264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com

•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631)-464-4899.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13

• Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15

• 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.

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16

•Amityville Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting: 6 p.m. Amityville Public Library, 19 John Street, Amityville. For more information, email trustees@ amityvillepubliclibrary.org or call (631)-264-0567.

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

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk 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

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

Copiague rises above .500 mark

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

After a 1-3-1 start to the season, the Copiague girls’ soccer team has turned things around.

With consecutive wins over Hampton Bays, East Hampton, and Wyandanch, the Eagles got themselves back above .500. In those three games, Copiague outscored its opponents 16-1, including a dominant 8-0 victory over Wyandanch Oct. 1.

Nick Lorenzen has been coaching soccer in Copiague for almost 20 years. In his time, he has learned the importance of team chemistry. “I told our players this year that it is important for them to trust each other when they are out on the field,” he said. “Trust that everyone will be in the right positions and it will lead to success.”

Lorenzen pointed out how much depth this year’s group brings to the table. “Nobody is trying to do too much,” he said. “You can’t play like that and expect to win. “We have especially seen that approach from the seniors. “You can tell that they just want to win,” he added. “Nobody is being too selfish or is trying to do too much. They all want to play more as a team by drawing defenders and finding open teammates.”

Some key contributors include centermidfielders Samantha Fuentes and Daniella Jimenez. “They both have such great vision when they are in the game,” said Lorenzen. “Their connections with our forwards, Anesia Nicholas and Kaylee Campbell, have led to tons of offense.”

In the Eagles’ win over Wyandanch, all four of them found their way on the scoresheet, including a hat trick from Fuentes and two from Campbell. Midfielder Adriana Carbajal also found the back of the net in the shutout win.

HERALD SPORTS Babylon holds off Miller Place

Erik Lee/Herald Samamtha Fuentes had a hat trick Oct. 1 as the Eagles upped their winning streak to three in a row.

While the 16 goals in a three game span was exciting, the Eagles have also done a fabulous job shutting down the opposition. “Anna Cruz and Sophia Martinez have really held the fort down,” said Lorenzen. “They do such a good job in front of our goalie, Leilani Taro, who has been lights out in the box ever since the Huntington game.”

Copiague, which struggled in recent seasons, finds itself in a development league this fall which has led to all competitive games but there are no playoffs at the end of the year. However, that is not stopping Lorenzen’s squad from giving it its all each and every time they step on the field. “Our goal is still to win as many games as possible,” he said. “We want to continue to build this program in a positive way.”

The schedule from here on out consists of opponents that the Eagles have already faced this season so the competition is familiar. “We now know what it takes to win these games,” said Lorenzen. “Like I said, just continuing to trust each other and playing together as a team is all that I want to see. If we do that, I like our chances to continue these winning ways.”

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Another week has gone by in the high school football season and it was another victory for Babylon.

After starting the season with wins over Glenn, Port Jefferson, and Mt. Sinai, the Panthers held their Homecoming game against Miller Place last Saturday night and picked up a 57-48 Suffolk Division IV victory in what was a back-and-forth affair that featured plenty of offensive fireworks.

The Panthers took control early, scoring the first nine points of the game, starting with quarterback Kai Jankow’s 22-yard touchdown run. After heading into the halftime break holding onto a 30-13 lead, both offenses really found their groove in the second half. The two teams combined for 62 second-half points.

“Hats off to their coaching staff in that second half,” Babylon head coach Rick Punzone said. “Their quarterback played phenomenal and was right on all night and our secondary struggled to figure him out.”

While Babylon did not play well on the defensive side, the offense picked up the slack led by four rushing touchdowns for Jankow. “The offensive line did such a great job for us,” said Jankow, lauding the efforts of the front five consisting of Gavin McDonald, Michael Bender, Lorenzo DiNapoli, Savion Milner and Toprak Oziel. “They gave me the holes and room I needed to be able to run all over the field.”

The same goes for running back Aidan Winter, who ran for 284 yards and two touchdowns. “It is awesome to know that I can trust the guys around me when I have the ball in my hands,” Winter said. “We are a family who grinds together everyday to get better and I know I’m playing my best when I’m around them.”

Punzone also had such high praise for both Winter and Jankow. “Aidan is so explosive when he has the ball,” said Punzone when asked about his running back’s talent. “It’s nice to know that at any point, he has the ability to break a big run and take it to the house.”

At the quarterback position, Punzone

has loved seeing Jankow step up. “He has been phenomenal on both sides of the ball,” he said. “As the quarterback, he allows me to use Winter in all different creative ways.”

Despite the 4-0 start to the season, Punzone knows there is still plenty of work to do with half the season still remaining. “We did not beat Miller Place by 50 points,” he said. “We can definitely build off of this game and try to improve, especially on defense, because you can’t win a championship if you play like that.”

Babylon’s schedule is not going to get any easier. Their final four games are against Greenport/Southhold/Mattituck this week, followed by Bayport-Blue Point, Center Moriches, and Shoreham-Wading River. Three of those teams all currently hold records of 3-1 or better.

This will be a good test run for the Panthers as they gear up for what they hope is a deep postseason run in November.

Media Origin Inc. /Herald Babylon quarterback Kai Jankow ran for four touchdowns last Saturday night as the Panthers defeated Miller Place.

Kiwanis Club of Amityville makes donation to Good Samaritan Hospital

After a successful year of fundraising, the Kiwanis Club of Amityville was able to make a $500 donation to the Good Samaritan Hospital Pediatric Trauma Center. Pictured are Kiwanis Past President Margo Lasker, Hospital Foundation Executive Di -

rector Kelly Albanese-Scherer, Treasurer Rick Licari and Past Secretary Corky Amico.

For more information on the Amityville Kiwanis Club call 631-691-3274, email amityvillekiwanis@gmail.com or go online to amityvillekiwanis.org.

TOB paper shredding event, Oct. 19

The Town of Babylon will be hosting their annual paper shredding event on Sat., Oct. 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full), at the Babylon Town Hall in Lindenhurst.

This event is free and for residents only. No businesses, at this time. Destroy your personal documents, prevent identity event and protect the environment. It is requested that participants

also bring non-perishable items for the food pantry, if possible. The event will take place in the west parking lot. Rain date is scheduled for Sat., Oct. 26. This event is sponsored by Councilman DuWayner Gregory. For more information, please call (631) 957-3127. Babylon Town Hall is located at 200 East Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst.

Serving All Faiths Since 1908 Our 116th Year

Powell Funeral Home Inc.

Family Owned and Operated for Five Generations

67 Broadway, Amityville, NY 11701

(Route 110, Just North of Merrick Road, In the Heart of the Historical District) Tel: 631-691-0172

Handicapped Accessible Pre-Need Information Available

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

Rev. Thomas W. Cusanelli

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

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

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

30 Locust Ave., Amityville 631-789-2569

Rev. Akio Iyoda, Pastor

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

Voting primer: A guide to making sure you’re counted

By Anjolique Powell Correspondent

With Election Day, Nov. 5, as well as early voting, Oct. 26 to Nov. 3, rapidly approaching, this guide offers essential information about voting in Nassau and Suffolk counties as well as details on voter eligibility, registration, voting procedures, and absentee voting.

Information for this guide was collected through the League of Women Voters of Nassau County and the Nassau and Suffolk County boards of elections.

Am I eligible to vote?

In order to be eligible to vote, you must:

■ Be a United States citizen.

■ Be at least 18 years old (you can pre-register at 16 or 17).

■ Live in the county, city, or village for at least 30 days before an election.

■ Not be incarcerated for a felony conviction

■ Not claim the right to vote elsewhere.

How do you vote in the general election?

In order to vote in a general election in the U.S., you must be registered before Election Day. To find your polling place in Nassau, go to NassauCountyNy. gov/566/Board-of-Elections. In Suffolk, SuffolkCountyNy.gov/Departments/BOE.

Where/how do I register?

You can register to vote by:

■ Filling out a voter registration form found on either county’s Board of Elections website or the New York State Board of Elections website (at least 25 days before the election)

■ Registering in person at some public agencies.

■ Visiting the Nassau County Board of Elections from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. You’ll receive a confirmation card within two to six weeks. If you don’t receive it, call (516) 571-2411 to check on your application.

There are three ways for voters to cast a ballot in this year’s elections:

■ In person, during early voting, at any one of the 28 early voting locations or on Election Day at your designated polling place.

■ By mail – By early mail ballot or by absentee ballot. To request a ballot, go to Eections.Ny.Gov/request-ballot.

■ For military and oversees voting, go to Elections. Ny.Gov/military-and-overseas-federal-voting.

Do I need to register every year?

No, you’re permanently registered once you’ve registered. However, you need to submit a new application if your name, address, or party changes. If you move, notify the County Board of Elections and re-register.

Should I register with one political party?

You are not obligated to join a political party, however, according to the League of Women’s Voters, “Declaring a party allows you to vote in that party’s primary election, which in New York State is open only to party members.” Enrolled party members can also sign nomination petitions. It’s also important to mention that registering with a party doesn’t mean you have to vote for that party’s candidates. You’re always free to vote for any candidate in general elections.

What is early voting?

Early voting allows people to cast their ballots before Election Day. Early voting also allows voters to go to locations that are closer, like public libraries, public buildings, or community centers. However,

these locations will be different from your assigned Election Day polling place.

When and where does early voting take place?

Hours are:

■ Most days: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

■ Oct. 28: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

■ Oct. 29 and 30: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Check each county’s Board of Elections website for specific locations or location changes.

How do I know where to vote on Election Day?

In order to know where to vote you must look up your polling place, which can be found by entering your county, first and last name, date of birth, and zip code on the New York State Poll Site Search website. This site also tracks voter registration and absentee ballots.

Linda Devin-Sheehan, a board member of the Suffolk League of Women Voters, at the voter registration drive on the Stony Brook University campus on Sept. 11.

Can I still vote if I won’t be able to go to a polling place?

Yes, you can vote by absentee ballot if you’re unable to vote in person due to:

■ Not being in the county or New York City on Election Day

■ Temporary or permanent illness or physical disability

■ Primary care duties for ill or physically disabled individuals

■ Being a patient or inmate in a Veterans’ Administration Hospital

■ Detention in jail/prison (awaiting trial, grand jury action, or serving time for a non-felony conviction).

What is an absentee ballot?

An absentee ballot allows you to cast your vote if you can’t make it to your polling place on Election Day. It’s the same ballot you would receive if you voted in person. However, you can fill it out at home and mail it back or drop it off at the County Board of Elections or at an early polling place.

How do I request an absentee ballot?

To request an absentee ballot you can:

■ Download and fill out the Absentee Ballot Application from the New York State Board of Elections website.

■ Send a letter by mail to: Nassau County Board of Elections at P.O. Box 9002, Mineola, NY 11501 or Suffolk County Board of Elections PO Box 700, Yaphank, NY 11980.

■ In the letter, you must include:

■ Your name and date of birth.

■ The address where you are registered.

■ The reason for the request.

Remember, the Nassau County Board of Elections will take absentee ballots up to 10 days before the election. Under normal circumstances, the Suffolk County Board of Elections will send out ballots between one and three days after receiving an application.

Anjolique Powell is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism Working Newsroom program for students and local media.

A facsimile of a New York state voter registration.

Photos courtesy Gabby Daniels

State Senator Monica Martinez seeking reelection

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

Senator Monica Martinez, a Democrat representing New York Senate District 4 since 2021, is running for re-election this November. She faces Republican and Conservative candidate Theresa J. Bryant, who has not actively campaigned.

Martinez emphasizes constituent services and aims to address issues such as affordable housing, unemployment, and access to affordable insurance. “Sometimes life just happens, and for the constituents who call my office, life has happened,” said Martinez, a Brentwood resident.

She believes her personal experiences have equipped her to assist the community effectively. “We’re dealing in Brentwood with homelessness, drug use, and prostitution,” she explained, noting her collaboration with the MTA, Long Island Railroad police, community organizers, and other elected officials to improve local conditions. “At the end of the day, what every single individual wants is a good quality of life,” she added.

Martinez takes pride in her legislative achievements, particularly her sponsorship of the Water Quality Restoration Act. “I’m proud of the work we have done already in improving our water quality,” she said. “There has been a lot of money invested into our water and sewer infrastructure, but we need to make sure that everybody has good drinking water.”

Public safety remains a focus for Martinez, who has secured funding for police and first responders to enhance their effec-

tiveness. She has proposed a bill mandating security guard training in response to increasing school shootings. “My bill would require that security guards, armed or unarmed, go through this training and learn about the child as a holistic approach,” Martinez explained.

She emphasized the importance of knowing how to de-escalate situations involving children facing medical or mental health issues. “Public safety will continue to be a priority for me,” she said, affirming her commitment to providing law enforcement with the tools they need to foster safer communities.

Martinez has also worked to reduce taxes, establishing a permanent 2 percent property tax cap that puts more money in workers’ pockets. She advocates for transit-oriented development, which she believes can stimulate local economies.

ANNIVERSARY

“Besides building houses, you are building businesses, retail, and multi-purpose usage of land,” she said.

On the topic of affordable housing, Martinez stated, “We need to tackle it in a way where we bring all stakeholders in and truly look at the market value on what is considered affordable and what people are making in order to make those ends meet.”

Born in El Salvador, Martinez credits her parents, Ana and Antonio Martinez, with instilling a strong work ethic and a commitment to public service. “My parents are my everything,” she said. A former educator and assistant principal in the Brentwood School District, she described a pivotal moment that motivated her political career.

When a student confided in her about lacking heat, hot water, and food at home, Martinez realized her ability to help was limited. “Because of the bureaucracy and the red tape that exists in government at times, struggling families sometimes can’t get the help they need,” she said. “I felt that change was needed, and I wanted to help bring that change about.”

Since her election to the New York State Senate, Martinez has been able to provide for families in need. “I knew then that I had made the right choice since I was able to help more people beyond the four walls of my office, actually effectuating change,” she said.

At 47, Martinez lives in Brentwood with her dog, Cooper, and several cats. In her free time, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite television shows. For more information on Sen. Martinez visit nysenate. gov/senators/monica-r-martinez.

About the district

The 4th Senate District stretches from parts of Hauppauge, Central Islip, and Islandia, through Brentwood, North Bay Shore, and Deer Park, to West Babylon and North Amityville, reaching the Suffolk County/Nassau County line. The district’s geography has changed somewhat since 2022 and now includes all of Brentwood.

In the 4th Senate District, 34 percent of residents are non-Hispanic White, 17 percent are Black, 41 percent are Hispanic, and 2 percent are Asian.

The median household income in the district is $113,456. For comparison, the median household income in the bordering 8th Senate District, which includes Sayville, the Islip areas, Bay Shore, and Babylon, is $137,507.

The district has 88,761 enrolled voters, giving Democrats a registration edge with 40,517 Republicans, 2,407 Conservatives, 837 enrolled in the Working Families Party, and 55,720 voters choosing not to enroll in a party.

In 2022, incumbent Democrat Monica Martinez was re-elected in the 4th District, receiving 51.4 percent of the votes, while Republican Wendy Rodriguez garnered 48.6 percent.

Election Day is Nov. 5. The polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Celebrating 10 years of serving our community as The Safe Center!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024

Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, NY

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS COST $250 SPONSORSHIPS AND TICKET PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

If you are unable to join us, please consider making a donation in honor of our 10th Anniversary!

Scan QR code, visit TSCLIGala.org, or call 516.465.4774 to donate or purchase tickets.

Fall into a good book this Autumn...

An easy read with a storyline that takes place on Long Island; great mystery with vibrant characters, familiar places and intrigue that will capture your imagination from beginning to end.

“George’s morning runs were predictable and uneventful. This morning, however, George’s detective radar picked up on some unusual activity. Keeping his pace steady, he watched a tall Italian-looking lady,

I’m very excited to share some amazing news with you! Page Publishing has developed a partnership with ReaderHouse, the #1 site for indie & best selling books, that saves readers 10% when they purchase the book. For anyone interested in purchasing the book, feel free to use this link https://readerhouse.com/?s=9781662407550&post_ type=product and use the promo code FF- Save10 at checkout. It is that simple!

Get your copy of Gary Slavin’s novel today.

Also available at: Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com

NYS Senator Monica Martinez

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Hometown pride fills Amityville HS’s homecoming

On Sept. 28, members of the Amityville school community proudly paraded to Amityville Memorial High School during the school’s annual homecoming parade.

The parade featured the high school’s marching band, school administrators, board members, faculty, local elected officials, cheerleaders, and students from various Amityville schools. Marchers started their journey at the LIRR Amityville station and paraded down the local streets as onlookers cheered. Students dressed up and floats were decorated to represent this year’s theme of the fall season. Parents and supportive community members were also in attendance as they watched the group march down Broadway through the heart of the Village of Amityville all the way to the high school.

The high school’s cheerleading team held an amazing performance during halftime of the Amityville’s varsity football game against the Rocky Point Eagles. Halftime celebrations concluded with the crowning of the homecoming king Adonis Lyons and queen Tiffany Asbell.

Amityville’s varsity football team played with pride against the Rocky Point Eagles, but they lost with a final score of 28-20. The district would like to thank everyone in the Amityville school community who came out to show their support.

Photos courtesy/Amityville Union Free School District

Amityville’s varsity football team played with pride against the Rocky Point Eagles, but they lost with a final score of 28-20.

Above: Amityville School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert, far right, celebrated the high school’s homecoming court. Adonis Lyons and Tiffany Asbell were crowned homecoming king and queen.

Above: The high school’s cheerleading team held an amazing performance during halftime.

Right: Students from each school building joined their principals in marching through the Village of Amityville on Sept. 28.

STEPPING OUT

Fl!ppin’ out at the circus

It’s all a thrill with daredevils under the Big Top

By Danielle Schwab

The Big Top has sprung up on Long Island once again for a Fl!p Circus spectacular that brings audiences up close to the action.

The circus spectacle, which wowed audiences here earlier in the spring, brings its intimate Big Top experience back, now through Oct. 15, to Hicksville’s Broadway Commons.

Fl!p Circus was started by the Vazquez family, a long line of circus performers dating back over 50 years. Its older counterpart, the Circus Vazquez, originated in Mexico City in 1969 and has since ventured to the U.S.

While Circus Vazquez has one of the largest tents in America, Fl!p Circus has one of the smallest with around 800 seats. It brings a refreshing, more intimate look at the circus experience with no seat more than 50 feet from the ring.

“It makes it very different and very unique. We wanted to create a show that appealed more to the traditional side of the circus,” says Alexa Vazquez, a fourth-generation performer.

“The seats are made for a 360-degree view, so wherever

• Now through Oct. 15

• Weekdays, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 1 and 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m.

• Tickets start at $50 adult, $30 children; available at flipcircus.com or can be purchased in person at box office

• Broadway Commons, 358 N. Broadway, Hicksville

you’re sitting, you’re getting the best view. You feel like a part of the performance,” she continues.

Training since she was 15,

Vazquez showcases her acrobatic skills in her mesmerizing Hula Hoop gymnastics act. She weaves various hoops together simultaneously, including a giant hoop, the Cyr Wheel.

“It’s something where, if you lose concentration very quickly, it can go very wrong,” Vazquez explains.

“But at the same time it’s fun because people see a gigantic wheel, but then they see a smaller one. It’s confusing for them, but fun at the same time.”

Fl!p Circus takes traditional acts and gives them a contemporary twist with — in the grand circus tradition — an international flair. Jugglers, trapeze artists and daredevils from throughout the world — including Brazil, India, Chile, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and the U.S. — live and travel together from location to location.

That global flavor is led by Brazil’s favorite clown, Bubi Guiner, who brings his classic comedic routines and side-splitting antics to the U.S. for the first time. He may even invite you on stage as part of the show.

From India, watch as Hasan Ansari thrills audiences with his flexibility, performing body-bending maneuvers on a wooden pole, leaving you wondering how a human body can do that. Ukraine’s Anastasia & Misha present a stunningly synchronized and poetic presentation of dance and acrobatics. Also Pavel Valla Bertini, a fifth-generation performer from the Czech Republic, keeps everyone on the edge of their seats

with his unparalleled one, three and even 15-wheeled unicycle skills.

Others delight audiences with their fast-paced juggling skills, energetic roller skating feats, graceful dancing and acrobatics.

There’s always something new to enjoy, no matter how many times you go, according to Vasquez.

“Every year that it comes to town, you’re going to see a different show,” she says.

Every act brings a different culture to the stage. Each is accompanied by a special musical score, played by the Fl!p Circus Band. The versatile soundtrack ranges from classic instrumental to upbeat rock.

“I always like to say, with Flip to expect the unexpected,” says Vazquez. “As you walk into the stands — (with) the music, the lights, and the way the atmosphere is set — you’re inside a different world, and it’s something that you have to experience yourself.”

And, of course, there’s an assortment of tasty circus treats to munch on from the concession stand.

Capturing over 200 years of circus tradition into high-energy show, Fl!p Circus invites everyone to immerse themselves in the experience.

“We just want the audience to enjoy the show, and we want them to be transformed into what we’re doing,” says Vasquez. “We want the audience, when they come in, to feel welcome, to feel like they’re a part of the family.”

Tom Colicchio on ‘why he cooks’

Get an unprecedented insights into the life of one of America’s top chefs when Tom Colicchio brings his “Why I Cook” book tour to the Paramount stage. Part memoir-part cookbook, Colicchio’s newest book shares an exclusive look inside the mind and kitchen of the beloved multiple-Awardwinning chef, restaurateur, and television personality. Colicchio cooked his first recipe at 13-yearsold — a stuffed eggplant from an issue of Cuisine magazine that he picked up out of boredom — and it changed his life. Through 10 memoir chapters and 60 recipes, “Why I Cook” shares Colicchio’s personal reflections of more than 40 years behind the stove. From pre-dawn fishing excursions with his grandfather to running the flat-top at the snack shack of the local swim club, to finding his way as a young chef in New York City, into Tom’s life yet.

Saturday, Oct. 12, 2 p.m.$95, $65, $54, $35. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Anthony Pascal and Anthony Rapp

Get ready to be swept away with Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, the original stars of “Rent.” Their enduring friendship, spanning three decades, forms the heart and soul of this duo show, promising an evening filled with music, anecdotes and laughter. Pascal and Rapp’s friendship and history create an unforgettable evening of music, stories and fun. Expect songs from highlights throughout their careers, music that has influenced their lives, and of course some of the iconic hits from where it all began — meeting on the stage of “Rent.” Jonathan Larson’s iconic show, remains an international phenomenon, contuing a trajectory that began with it’s Off-Broadway opening all those years ago.

Thursday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. $69, $64, $54. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Visit landmarkonmainstreet.org for tickets and information, or call (516) 7676444.

Photos courtesy Fl!p Circus Modern yet vintage describes the Fl!p Circus experience.

One-On-One Citizenship Appointments

Steve Martin and Martin Short

Icons, collaborators and dos amigos Steve Martin and Martin Short have a relationship that’s evolved in unexpected ways since their SNL days. Their comic prowess has surely reached new heights since their involvement in Hulu’s smash hit “Only Murders in the Building.” The pair takes another comic turn as special guest performers at Tilles Center’s 2024 Gala, Saturday, Oct. 19, 8:30 p.m. These two funnyman display their impeccable talents as “The Dukes of Funnytown!” — a show that redefines the form in unexpected and profound ways, from two of the most influential and acclaimed talents of the past century. Their humor is often subversive, but it is always a joyous self-deprecating romp from two comedy masters driven to make each other laugh as much as the audience.

The jokes come at you at a rapid-fire pace with little set-up and big punch lines as they mock Hollywood and the fickle nature of celebrity, but the comedy truly soars when they lovingly (and relentlessly) roast each other. Martin and Short’s chemistry and timing on stage reflects a friendship forged over three decades, which developed when they met for the first time on the set of the 1986 film “Three Amigos.” These two titans of comedy have been touring together since 2015, when they launched their first live show. Tickets start at $70. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Amityville Public Library is offering one-on-one informational appointments to discuss the general citizenship process and how to prepare for the citizenship tests. through 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.

Hocus Pocus Night at Tanner Park

Stick around after the 2024 Fall Festival for Movie Night at Tanner Park, for a showing of “Hocus Pocus” on the big screen under the stars, Saturday Oct. 19, 7 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to sit on! Admission is free to movie night. 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague

Trunk or Treat

Simpson United Methodist Church hosts a Trunk or treat event, Thursday, Oct. 26 , 2-4 p.m., at the church. All are encouraged to attend in costume. There’s also a chance to vote for the bestdecorated car. Rain cancels the event. 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information call Mary at (516) 991-8098.

Farmers Market: Still goin’ strong

Moving into autumn, the Bay Village Civic Association reminds residents that its farmers market is still open every Saturday throughtout October,, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Parking available. The Great Lawn of FUMC, 25 Broadway, Amityville.

Babylon Town S.T.O.P Day

The Town of Babylon holds a cleanup for Stop Throwing out Pollutants (STOP) Day, Saturday, Oct. 12, rain or shine, 8 a.m.2:30 p.m., at the Residential Recycling Center. Residents are permitted unlimited free trips with an automobile and one free trip with pick-ups, vans or trailers (4 feet by 8 feet). These cleanup days are free of charge. Any vehicle larger than a van or pickup truck will not be permitted. No commercial waste is accepted. Field Street in West Babylon. For more information call the town at (631) 957-3000.

Title

Councilman Anthony Manetta’s 7th Annual Pasta & Sauce Drive

Councilman Anthony Manetta, in collaboration with the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America

Constantino Brumidi Lodge, hosts the 7th Annual Pasta & Sauce Drive to support the Town of Babylon Food Pantry, now until Friday, Oct. 18. It aims to gather essential food items to help those in need within the community.

Residents can contribute by donating pasta and sauce at three convenient locations: the Sons of Italy Constantino Brumidi Lodge, 2075 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park; Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst, and the Lindenhurst Memorial Library, 1 Lee Ave., Lindenhurst. All contributions will directly benefit local families, ensuring they have access to the nutrition they need. For more information, contact Councilman Anthony Manetta’s Office at (631) 957-4482 or visit his Facebook page @AnthonyNManetta.

Babylon Town Fall Festival

Join the Town of Babylon Department of Parks & Recreation for the 2024 Fall Festival, Saturday, Oct. 19 , 4-7 p.m., at Tanner Park. All your favorite activities are back including the hayride, pumpkin picking, giant maze and more! SouthBound will take the stage to perform live. Wowing crowds for over a decade, this four piece, tour de force captivates and enthralls crowds with their showmanship, talent and positive energy. Be sure to wear your Halloween costumes. Admission is free. 400 Baylawn Ave, Copiague. For more information call (631) 957-3000.

Having an event?

Annual County Marathon

The 10th Annual Suffolk County Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and 1K Fun Run will be held Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 19-20 . On Oct. 19, the 5K race begins at 9 a.m. and the 1K at 11 a.m., inside Gardiner County Park, Montauk Highway, Bay Shore. The 10k, Half Marathon and Full Marathon Start at 7:30 a.m., on Oct. 20 at the Babylon LIRR train station. Start line is on the corner of Railroad and Deer Park Ave. The best place to be dropped off is at Babylon LIRR, the North Side of the tracks (Park Ave). To register or for more information go to runsignup.com./

Items on The Scene page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to thescene@liherald.com.

Thomas H. Smith Ragamuffin Parade

Amityville Police Benevolent Association hosts the annual Thomas H. Smith Ragamuffin Parade, Saturday, Oct. 19 , 10 a.m. with a rain date of Oct. 20. Parade starts at 9/11 Memorial Park, Broadway at LIRR and ends at north parking lot of Park Avenue Elementary School. There will be goodies for the participants and a contest for the best costumes.

Latin Mix and Ballroom Dancing

If you’ve ever wanted to learn Latin dancing the easy way, this is for you. These classes, Saturdays, beginning Oct. 19 through Dec. 14, at Amityville Public Library, will cover Salsa, Merengue, Rumba and Cha Cha. In addition to simple and exciting Latin steps, this course will be covering styling, timing, and musicality. $10 check, cash or money order made payable to the Amityville Public Library is due at registration. 19 John St., Amityville. For information, visit amityvillepubliclibrary.org or call (631) 264-0567.

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 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.

P.S. I Love You Day Foundation donates serenity bench to Babylon

Jaimie and Brooke DiPalma of the P.S. I Love You Day Foundation donated a bench that was placed on the grounds of Babylon Town Hall on Sept.

The sisters established the foundation in memory of their father, a retired New York City police officer who died by suicide. On the day he passed, he dropped Brooke off at school, telling her, “I love you,” before driving away. Later that day, Brooke received the devastating news of his death.

This tragedy led the family to focus on the pain and loss associated with suicide, prompting Brooke to advocate for awareness of the stigma surrounding it and to address mental health issues.

Since then, Jaimie and Brooke, West Islip residents, have created P.S. I Love You, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting suicide prevention and awareness.

At the event, Babylon Town Councilmen Terence McSweeney and Anthony

Manetta, Town Clerk Geraldine Compitello, and Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly gathered to express their gratitude to the DiPalma sisters and the P.S. I Love You Day Foundation for the bench donation.

“This bench will provide a serene spot for individuals to reflect, relax, or simply enjoy the tranquil sounds and scenery of beautiful Town Hall Park,” McSweeney said.

“The P.S. I Love You Foundation is committed to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health,” Jaimie stated. “Its focus is to inspire hope for those impacted by mental illness and to create a nurturing community where everyone feels valued and supported.”

The foundation’s mission is celebrated annually on the second Friday of February, known as P.S. I Love You Day when participants wear purple to show their support. Next year, P.S. I Love You Day will be celebrated on Feb. 14.

For more information on how to get involved, visit www.psiloveyouday.net.

Kiwanis Club of Amityville hosts annual Field of Honor

In honor of Veteran’s Day, the Kiwanis Club of Amityville will be sponsoring a “Field of Honor.” This field of American flags will honor living and deceased veterans.

The flag you purchase is a 3x5 ft. flag mounted, with a personalized yellow ribbon, erected in precision rows on the front lawn of Amityville Memorial High School on Merrick Road.

The field will be on display from November 2 to 20. Set up will be at 8 a.m. on Sat., November 2 and the dismantling will take place on Sat., Nov. 20 at 8 a.m. A large percentage of the

proceeds will be donated to a local veterans organization. Your flag and yellow ribbon will be available for you to pick up as your memento once the field has been dismantled.

The cost is $25 for a flag honoring and $50 to be a sponsor. Checks should be made payable to The Kiwanis Club of Amityville, PO Box 804, Amityville, NY 11701. Please add an additional $5 for postage to your check if you wish to have your flag mailed to you. For more information, please email amityvillekiwanis@gmail.com or contact K. Schmidt at (631) 598-0744.

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, 25, 10/2, 9, 16

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Plaintiff AGAINST

John Ikhihibhojere; Bola Asemota; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 10, 2023, and Amended August 16, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on October 31, 2024 at 2:30PM, premises known as 508 Albany Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Amityville in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of NY, District: 0100 Section: 173.00 Block: 01.00 Lot: 134.000. Approximate amount of judgment $632,544.52 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 624177/2017. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District.

Pamela J. Greene, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP

f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: September 9, 2024 For sale information, please visit www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832 24-527. 10/2, 9, 16, 23

Public Notices — Your right to know

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 631468/2023 KINECTA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Plaintiff, vs JASMINE MORGAN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROBIN MORGAN-HAWKINS, ROBERT L. HAWKINS, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROBIN MORGAN-HAWKINS, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF ROBIN MORGAN-HAWKINS IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC & PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY, INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF ISLANDIA, LVNV FUNDING LLC APO CITIBANK, JEFFERSON CAPITAL SYSTEMS LLC JOHN

DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s).

MORTGAGED PREMISES:

31 South 23rd Street WYANDANCH, NY 11798 To the Above named Defendant: 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 Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental 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 Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Suffolk. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Robin Morgan-Hawkins Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Susan Betsy Heckman Torres of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Tenth day of September, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, in the City of Riverhead. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Robin Morgan-Hawkins (who died on June 25, 2022, a resident of the county of Suffolk, State of New York) dated the October 15, 2014, to secure the sum of $140,000.00 and recorded at Book 22537, Page 291 in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on October 31, 2014. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 11, 2023 and recorded on February 21, 2023, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book M00023485, Page 112. The

property in question is described as follows: 31 South 23rd Street, WYANDANCH, NY 11798 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME  If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: September 18, 2024 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 82721 24-528. 10/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 7:00 P.M. on THURSDAY, October 17th, 2024, to consider the following applications:

Application of John Palermo. Applicant seeks a special exception to maintain a solid 4 foot solid vinyl fence on a waterfront parcel pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (1) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the East side of Ocean Avenue approximately 285 feet South of Grace Court in a “Residential A” District known as 78 Ocean Avenue a/k/a SCTM# 101-9-7-11.

Application of Chris Ross / L.I.P.P. on behalf of Elizabeth Gandolfo. Applicant seeks a special exception to maintain a 6 foot solid vinyl fence pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on

the East side of Forrest Place approximately 110 feet North of Terry Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 97 Forrest Place a/k/a SCTM# 101-6-3-22.

Application of Kadandale Shetty. Applicant seeks multiple variances associated with the proposed erection of a Multiple Dwelling structure. Variance 1 is a Use Variance to allow the erection of a Multiple Dwelling in the Business District pursuant to Section 183-81 of the Village of Amityville Code. Variance 2 is to reduce the required setback from the average yard depth of 15’-9”to 12’-4” pursuant to Section 183-91 of the Village Code. Premises located on the East side of Broadway approximately 99 feet north of Dixon Ave in a "B-1 Business" District known as 379-383 Broadway a/k/a SCTM#101-2-4-23, 101-2-4-24, and 101-2-4-26.

Application of Soljenistsyn & Rachel Maurice. Applicants seek a special exception to maintain a 6 foot solid vinyl fence pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South side of Austin Avenue approximately 120 feet East of Lake Street in a “Residential B” District known as 13 Austin Avenue a/k/a SCTM# 101-4-4-20.

Application of Frank Allocca Jr of 52-50 Sprague LLC. Applicant seeks to renew a previously approved special exception to maintain the existing outdoor storage pursuant to Section 183-96 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the North side of Sprague Avenue approximately 415 feet East of Broadway (Route 110) in an “Industrial” district known as 50 and 52 Sprague Avenue a/k/a SCTM# 1012-4-6, 101-2-4-7, and 1012-4-8.

Application of Arthur Chiodo. Applicant seeks a use variance to maintain an existing non-conforming Mixed-Use Dwelling pursuant to Section 183-83 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West side of South Ketcham Avenue approximately 370 feet South of Morris Street in a “B-3 Marine Business” District known as 235 South Ketcham Avenue a/k/a SCTM# 101-11-1-18.

Application of Tuyet Van Nguyen. Applicant seeks renewal of a previously ap-

proved special exception for a non-owner-occupied two-family dwelling pursuant to Section 183-43 C (6) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the Northeast corner of oak Street and Wellington Place in a “residential B” District known as 66 Oak Street, a/k/a SCTM# 101-4-3-22. Application of Anthony Augello. Applicant seeks a renewal of a previously approved special exception for a mixed use dwelling pursuant to Section 183-82 A (10) (a) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the Southeast corner of Greene Avenue and Ketcham Avenue in a “Business 2” District known as 195 Ketcham Avenue, a/k/a SCTM# 101-5-2-37. By Order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 24-530 10/2, 9

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF Suffolk, SSA NE Assets, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Fifty Brefni Corp., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 21, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on November 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 50 Brefni Street, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 163.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 025.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $559,692.33 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612473/2021.

Daniel A. Russo, Esq., Referee

Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 24-531 10/9, 16, 23, 30

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

(Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on THURSDAY, OCTBER 24, 2024

BEGINNING AT 6:00

P.M.

6:00 p.m.

1. Application #24192 of Karin Capellan, 225 17th Street, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 26.7’ (for front deck); diminish distance to west side lot line from 6’ to 2’ (for garage). All in connection with the erection of a one car detached garage and a front deck. Property located on the north side of 17th Street, 1,317.23’ east of Straight Path, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-136-3-7

Zoning District: Residence C

6:05 p.m.

2. Application #24169 of Steven and Kathleen Cohen as trustees of the Cohen Revocable Trust, 9 Harbor Court, Copiague, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 15% to 30% (over by 1,901.7 sq. ft.). All in connection with legally maintaining a rear yard shed, a side yard shed, a rear deck with hot tub, and a paved patio. Property located on the north side of Harbor Court, 390.56’ west of Schooner Lane, Copiague, NY.

SCTM#0100-185-1-3

Zoning District: Residence A

6:10 p.m.

3. Application #24187 of Robert Perticone (applicant)/127 Great Neck Partners LLC (prop. owner), 55 Evergreen Street, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 10.1’ (for portico); increase total building area from 30% to 49.72% (over by 2,497.9 sq. ft.); increase the height of an accessory building (garage) from 14’ to 18’- 6’’. All in connection with legally maintaining a front portico and interior alterations to an existing two-family dwelling and a proposed two-car detached garage. Property

Public Notices — Your right to know

located on the east side of Great Neck Road, 138.56’ south of Crocus Court, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-221-1-18

Zoning District: Residence C

Subject Premises: 127 Great East Neck Road, West Babylon, NY 11704

6:15 p.m.

4. Application #24189a (Lot #1) of G&R Building Corp., 281 Main Street, Farmingdale, NY. Permission to diminish lot area from 10,000 sq. ft. to 5,857 sq. ft.; diminish width at front street line from 80’ to 59.34’; diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 25’; to subdivide a parcel of land from 100’ x 118.68’ into 100’ x 59.34’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of an 11,714 sq. ft. lot into two (2) 5,857 sq. ft. lots in order to erect two (2) new twostory single-family dwellings. Property located on the east side of Monroe Street, 160.66’ north of Lincoln Ave, Farmingdale, NY.

SCTM#0100-121-3-76

Zoning District: Residence B

Subject Premises: 49 Monroe Street, Farmingdale, NY 11735

6:20 p.m.

5. Application #24189b (Lot #2) of G&R Building Corp., 281 Main Street, Farmingdale, NY. Permission to diminish lot area from 10,000 sq. ft. to 5,857 sq. ft.; diminish width at front street line from 80’ to 59.34’; diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 25’; to subdivide a parcel of land from 100’ x 118.68’ to 100’ x 59.34’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of an existing 11,714 sq. ft. lot into two (2) 5,857 sq. ft. lots in order to erect two (2) new two-story single-family dwellings. Property located on the east side of Monroe Street, 101.32’ north of Lincoln Ave, Farmingdale, NY.

SCTM#0100-121-3-76

Zoning District: Residence B

Subject Premises: 49 Monroe Street, Farmingdale, NY 11735

6:25 p.m.

6. Application #24191 Specialty Hearse and Ambulance Sales Corp. (applicant)/Town of Babylon Industrial Development Agency (prop. owner), 5860 Engineers Lane, East Farmingdale, NY. Requesting renewal of a special ex-

ception permit to operate a public garage for auto repair of hearses and ambulances and sales of both; diminish off-street parking from fifty-one (51) parking stalls required to twenty-two (22) parking stalls provided; allow outdoor storage as per site plan. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for three (3) years; expired July 15, 2024). Property located on the east side of Engineers Lane, 919.66’ north of Central Ave, Farmingdale, NY.

SCTM#0100-7-1-26

Zoning District: Industry G

6:30 p.m.

7. Application #24179 of Simply the Best Auto Collision (tenant)/ Giaquinto Brothers LLC. (prop. owner), 902 Long Island Avenue, Deer Park, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to conduct a public garage for auto repair. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for two (2) years; expired April 20, 2020). Property located on the south side of Long Island Avenue, 447.07’ east of Carll’s Path, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-65-1-4.002

Zoning District: Industry G

6:35 p.m.

8. Application #24185 of David Penna, 700 10th Street, West Babylon, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a public garage for auto repair. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for three (3) years; expired June 11, 2023). Property located on the northwest corner of Route 109 and 6th Avenue, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-129-2-132

Zoning District: Business ESubject Premises: 655 Route 109, West Babylon, NY 11704

6:40 p.m.

9. Application #24-182 of Ok Petroleum Distribution Corp. (tenant)/1185 Straight Path Road LLC., 6 Fulton Street LLC., 9 Lakeway Drive LLC. (property owners), 45 Commerce Drive, Hauppauge, NY. Permission to allow a new gas station with convenience store and canopies on Straight Path and Fulton Street, non-permitted roadways; increase building height from 25’ to 27’; in-

crease canopy height from 20’ to 22’; diminish front yard setback from 15’ to 5’; diminish rear yard setback from 25’ to 10’ (adjoining residential use); diminish off-street parking from thirteen (13) parking stalls required to twelve (12) parking stalls provided; allow gas station to adjoin residential use; diminish driveway distance from adjacent property from 10’ required to 5’ provided on Fulton Street; allow gas station within 2,000 feet of another gas station; diminish distance of fuel tank to dispenser island from 10’ required to 8.4’ provided at north pump island; diminish distance between parallel diesel pumps from 20’ required to 16’ provided. All in connection with the proposed erection of a new gas station and two canopies. Property located on the southeast corner of Straight Path and Fulton Street, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-81-2-36, 37 & 67

Zoning District: Business E

Subject Premises: 1185 Straight Path, West Babylon, NY 11704

6:45 p.m.

10. Application #24-

184 of Ok Petroleum Distribution Corp. (tenant)/1185 Straight Path Road LLC., 6 Fulton Street LLC., 9 Lakeway Drive LLC. (property owners), 45 Commerce Drive, Hauppauge, NY. Permission to increase height of a ground sign from 6’ to 6’- 8”; increase area of price sign from 12 sq. ft. to 15 sq. ft.; diminish distance to property line from 10’ to 3.6’. All in connection with a proposed ground sign. Property located on the southeast corner of Straight Path and Fulton Street, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-81-2-36, 37 & 67

Zoning District: Business E

Subject Premises: 1185 Straight Path, West Babylon, NY 11704

6:50 p.m.

11. Application #24188 of 45 Dale LLC., 35 Dale Street, West Babylon, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a transfer station; increase building height from 35’ to 42’; allow two (2) parking stalls in front yard, not front of the building; diminish off-street parking from forty-three (43) stalls required to twenty-eight

(28) stalls provided; diminish landscaping from 4,820.4 sq. ft. required to 4,315.67 sq. ft. provided; increase number of buildings on the premises from one (1) to three (3). All in connection with the erection of a proposed 14,000 sq. ft. building to replace a fire damaged building for a transfer station. Property located on the east side of Dale Street, 242.60’ north of Edison Avenue, West Babylon, NY. SCTM#0100-74-2-22 & 23.008

Zoning District: Industry GB

Subject Premises: 45 & 53 Dale Street, West Babylon, NY 11704 ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE MUST APPEAR IN PERSON AT THE ABOVE HEARING. ALL CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED, TO BE FOLLOWED BY ADJOURNED CASES. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

MICHAEL KANE, CHAIRMAN

Dated: Babylon Town Hall Lindenhurst, New York September 30, 2024 24-532. 10/9

Keep Your Change Inaugural Sneaker Ball, Fri., Oct 18

The Keep Your Change (KYC) Inaugural Sneaker Ball will be taking place on Fri., Oct 18 at 6 p.m. at Helen Butler Hall at the Dominican Village in Amityville. Proceeds from the Inaugural KYC Sneaker Ball will go toward supporting various programs and initiatives that promote Keep Your Change, an organization that teaches students how to be successful in the classroom. The ball will also be honoring Community AllStars, Rev. Dr. Keith Hayward, Dan Lloyd, Andrew AyodejI and Sgt. Apryl Hargrove.

Tickets are $125 for a single seat up until Fri., Oct 11, and then the cost is $150. The cost for a 10-person table is $1,000. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well as journal advertisements. For additional ticket offers and group rates, please email kimshea@kycinc.org For more information about sponsorship opportunities and journal advertisements, please email ldaniels@kycinc.org or visit keepyourchangeinc.org.

Helen Butler Hall at Dominican Village is located at 75 Albany Ave., Amityville.

Massapequa Historical Society seeks vendors for Apple Festival

The Historical Society of the Massapequas seeks vendors for their Apple Festival, taking place on Sat., Oct 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Historical Society is looking for vendors selling homemade goods/ products, basket raffle donations and gift

cards from local businesses. For more information, please visit massapequahistoricalsociety.org/ festival-information-and-craft-exhibitorapplications.html, email pequahistory@ gmail.com or call (516)-510-3024.

Teacher a ides .............

Teaching a ssistants

$17.95/hr.

Floral Park-Bellerose Elementary School District

$19.95/hr. s ecurity personnel .. $20-$25/hr.

Bus Drivers.....

$25.14-$26.87/hr.

We have openings for teacher aides for the 2022/23 school year. 10-month positions available immediately, starting at $15.00/hr.

School Nurse, Part-Time

• Facilitate connections between families, students, and various community agencies and government offices to ensure families receive the support they need.

• Assist families and students in navigating social services and community resources, providing guidance and support throughout the process.

Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

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

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

Bus Monitors $19.32/hr. food s ervice personnel and c afeteria Monitor $16.00/hr. nurses sub .................. $175/day cleaners $40,454/year

• Conduct outreach to our school community to ensure equitable access to services and resources.

• QUALIFICATIONS: As per Civil Service

• SALARY: $40,525 - $55,000

We have an opening for a P/T school nurse, 2 days/wk mostly Wed & Thurs. Pro-rated salary, approx. $240.00/day. RN cert. required.

Please apply for positions via OLAS at www.OLASjobs.org

After School Child Care opportunities are also available. Please apply through scope www. scope online.us

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!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.

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.

POSITION DETAILS:

Flexible: Part-time or Full-time.

Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.

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

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

To Deliver Papers To Businesses in Massapequa, Amityville and Babylon 2 Days Per Week

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

JOURNEYMAN

COMMERCIAL/ RESIDENTIAL

Electrical Services. Traveling/ Valid License Required. 7-10yrs. Experience. $28-$34/ hourly. 516-739-3425, hrdepartment@valenteelectric.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

Medical Reception/Accounts

Receivable

Part Time- back-office work. Rockville Centre. Must be friendly, well-spoken. Computer literacy necessary. Back office includes collections/account receivable, verifying insurance and researching claims and some billing. Must be flexible (days/evenings). $18-$19/ Hourly. Email resume drsmnw@optonline.net or fax resume 516-763-4218.

Interested candidates should apply on www.olasjobs.org

You should address your letter of interest and resume to: Ms. Sherina Lucas Administrative Officer, HR Valley Stream UFSD Thirty 175 N. Central Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580 humanresources@VS30.org

Amazing Location

Nestled on a picturesque 75x118 lot, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Located on a peaceful, tree-lined cul-desac, this residence features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, including a private master ensuite. The airy living room, with its soaring cathedral ceilings, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The home boasts a formal dining room, as well as a bright and welcoming eat-in kitchen. The lowerlevel den is ideal for relaxation or entertaining, and the 2-car attached garage with direct access to the home adds convenience. Located near schools, parks, and shopping, this home is

Should we

avoid cedar for siding, too?

Q. We want to replace our cedar siding, and you wrote about not using cedar. Is that just for decks, or also for siding? Our community in Massachusetts insists on cedar siding, but has been accepting lookalikes if they meet their appearance standards at the community review. It wouldn’t make sense for us to consider cedar if it’s as much of a problem as you stated. Please let us know your opinion on what we should do, since we want to try to get the siding done before the winter.

A. In my column, answering the question about decks, I wrote that I don’t recommend cedar as either a structural material or finish board material because of its instability and maintenance issues, for decks, specifically. Natural wood is more reactive to the environment, because it used to be in the middle of a tree, and wasn’t intended to be exposed to the weather in its natural state.

The stronger, solid hardwoods are less reactive, but cedar is a soft wood that easily expands and contracts. Although it’s resistant to insects, it doesn’t last as long as other products. As a siding material, it’s not as big a problem, and it’s reminiscent of the original New England historical architecture it was employed for. It’s very attractive, and the issue of stability and durability is different for its use as a siding material.

CATSKILLS:

There are two basic kinds of natural cedar siding, cedar shakes and cedar shingles. Shingles are cut with blades and shaped uniformly, while shakes, also called “split” shakes, are cut to size at double the thickness (or more) and then split in half. That mimics the rustic and non-uniform look our first settlers developed for making the homes and meeting houses they constructed as weatherresistant as they could manage. The techniques and original tools are still used today.

You may want to reconsider when to do the work, whichever style you choose, because cedar is generally harvested in the winter and early spring, and you’ll get better-quality material to work with in the spring than in the fall. The reason the wood is harvested when it is is because the ground around cedar trees is boggy and swampy, and heavy equipment can’t get to the trees until the ground is hard and stable. (Incidentally, foresting requirements dictate that for every tree harvested, two trees must be planted, and about 1 percent of all cedar trees are taken in a season, meaning there will be plenty of cedar for you when you need it.)

Make sure you have an installer who knows to use a waterproofing membrane and drainage filter fabric first, before the cedar is applied, so the shingles or shakes don’t constantly sit against a wet wall after they’re attached. The original settlers understood this, and used strips of cedar to keep the shakes off the wall to drain and dry. Wetting and drying cycles cause accelerated decay. Good luck!

© 2024 Monte Leeper

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

Monte Leeper

Cable/TV/Wiring

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

Cleaning Services

MARINA'S CLEANING SERVICES: Cleaning Homes, Apartments, Condos, Offices. Experienced. FREE Estimates. 10% Off With This Ad. Serving Long Island. 516-670-7764

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Exterminating

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Home Improvement

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076

Miscellaneous

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES!

Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. Family Plumbing. 516-599-1011.

Power Washing

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

Telephone Services

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

Tree Services

FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP SURGERY AND SUFFERED AN INFECTION POSTOPERATIVELY and a Bair Hugger (BLUE BLANKET) forced-air warming blanket was used during the surgery, between 2020present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727

Health Coverage

FREEDOMCARE. LET YOUR loved ones care for you and get paid! Paid by Medicaid. Choose family or friends as your paid caregiver. Check your eligibility today! Call FreedomCare now! 1-855-385-7556

Legal Services

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for

and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803

Remembering a cherished friendship with Nelson DeMille

The bestselling, superbly gifted novelist Nelson DeMille recently died. The author of 23 books, including 17 bestsellers, DeMille was so much more than a brilliant writer. He was first and foremost an outstanding human being and a loyal friend.

The first book of his that I read was “Cathedral,” in the early 1980s. It was a gripping tale of an attack on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I was hooked. Among all of Demille’s books, I found “Gold Coast,” a satiric depiction of Long Island’s North Shore, to be a true classic. My wife, Rosemary, became an almost obsessive reader of his works.

I didn’t actually meet DeMille until the early 2000s, when I was privileged to be invited to several lunches hosted by Mets owner Fred Wilpon and New York jurist Sol Wachtler at which DeMille was also a guest. I was struck immediately by what a regular guy he was. Totally unassuming and down-to-earth. Humorous. Extremely intelligent, and

TAknowledgeable on so many topics. Never once telling us how many bestsellers he authored, or mentioning his service in Vietnam as an infantry commander, for which he was awarded a Bronze Star.

Those early gatherings opened the way for lunches, dinners and social gatherings at which Rosemary and I would see Nelson and his wife, Sandy, as well as get-togethers he and I would have with guys we each knew. I distinctly recall the wonderful evening Rosemary and I enjoyed at DeMille’s home, celebrating his 75th birthday with his family and a multitude of friends.

TRosemary, who, in what turned out to be Sandy’s final social event, invited her to a formal congressional lunch in Washington honoring then first lady Melania Trump.

That evening, Sandy joined Rosemary, our daughter, Erin, and me for dinner at a Capitol Hill restaurant, and she was as outgoing and upbeat as ever. Just months later, in September 2018, she died. As devastated as he was, Nelson never showed even the slightest bit of self-pity.

he bestselling author was still the blue-collar guy who grew up in Elmont.

Conversations with him ran the gamut of his varied interests, including dedication to his family and his concern for others. Nothing was more saddening or distressing than when Sandy, a nonsmoker, was stricken with lung cancer. The years following her diagnosis in 2014 were marked by peaks of hope, but then by the darkest valley in 2018, when Sandy succumbed after waging a courageous, uncomplaining struggle.

She was an absolute delight to be with. Intelligent and always upbeat. Sandy was the center of her husband’s life. She was especially friendly with

Rosemary and I continued to get together with DeMille and, if anything, our friendship and admiration for him only deepened. More than ever, I realized that, with all his fame and success, he was, at heart, still the blue-collar guy who grew up in Elmont. Though he moved easily with the socially upscale and the movers and shakers, he very much identified with cops, firefighters, construction workers and military veterans. Those were the people who, through guts and dedication, make our nation work with little recognition or acclaim.

DeMille also never left Long Island. His roots were here, and this was where he stayed.

He continued his literary efforts,

writing, as always, in longhand on yellow legal pads, and rushing feverishly to meet his publisher’s deadlines. His final work was “Blood Line,” published in 2023, which he co-wrote with his son, Alex. Last Oct. 11 I had the privilege of moderating a discussion of “Blood Line” with the two of them before a large audience at LIU Post.

Weeks later, on Oct. 28, Rosemary, and I got together with DeMille at the Paramount, in Huntington, at a reception prior to a performance by Bill O’Reilly and Sid Rosenberg. DeMille was in good spirits, and seemed entirely healthy, but that was the last time we were with him. Soon after, he let us know he was being treated for cancer, but was confident all would be well.

This went on for months. On June 6, Rosemary received an email from him, saying he had just one procedure left, and then we’d be getting together for dinner. That was the last we heard from him. Nelson died of esophageal cancer on Sept. 17.

His wake and funeral, attended by hundreds of admirers and friends, were a celebration of a wonderful man of great accomplishment. He will be missed. Nelson DeMille, R.I.P.

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

historic election for all the wrong reasons

his has been a political year like no other in my lifetime. It may be the only year that was dominated by mean-spirited and ugly conduct, all in the name of winning an election. I am not naïve, having run 12 successful campaigns for public office. But the desperate campaign being run by Donald Trump, in his quest for renewed power, will stand out in the history books for many years to come.

Let’s start with this backdrop. Trump lost the 2020 election by 7 million votes. His years of claims that his success was “stolen” are fake by any measure. He admitted that he was beaten by challenging the election results in Georgia. If you lost an election, why would you be asking the Georgia secretary of state to “find 11,780 votes”? What is sad is that there are millions of Americans who have fallen for that charade.

The second historical event that

taints the Trump re-election effort is the Jan. 6, 2021, riot on Capitol Hill. Trump once told Americans that they shouldn’t believe what they saw with their own eyes. Whether you’re blind or able to see, at Trump’s urging, hundreds of people broke down the doors to the Capitol and destroyed government property, and their actions contributed to the death of five people. That is not my conclusion. It is the findings of countless jurors who heard the facts after weeks and weeks of criminal trials.

D onald Trump’s vision of the nation is depressing and false.

And so, with the blemish of a torrent of facts that would undo any reelection effort, Trump commenced his 2024 campaign. He once claimed he would “drain the swamp,” but instead he has created a new swamp by conducting a campaign heavy with racial undertones, vicious personal attacks and attacks on the American court system.

There have been so many vitriolic assaults that it would take more than one column to adequately describe all of them. One of the current ones that deserves public scorn is his attacks on

the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio. Despite the pleas of the Republican governor of Ohio, the mayor of Springfield and many other elected officials, both Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance, have continued to spread false charges about Haitians eating dogs and cats.

I long ago learned that personal attacks on your opponent don’t get much voter applause. Trump has decided that calling his challenger, Vice President Kamala Harris, “mentally impaired” is a way to get voter support. He also thinks that attacking her appearance is a way to win over skeptical women voters. These tasteless tactics are not the way to get the support of the fast-shrinking independent vote.

One of the winning ways to get voters to be your boosters is to offer solid policy proposals and to give the public a chance to hear your vision for the next 10-plus years. Trump has offered little in way of new ideas, but has Project 2025 as his policy proposal. That 900-plus-page volume, drafted by former officials of his administration, calls for

dismantling the federal government as we know it and turning it over to prescreened loyalists who will complete a menu of bureaucratic horrors. Perhaps the most vexing part of the current Trump effort is his constant harping on what he thinks our country looks like. He describes America as a “failed state.” His vision of the nation is depressing and false. He claims that many thousands of the migrants who have come to America have committed major crimes. Any honest presidential contender would not tear down the country at a time when it wants a leader with a brighter view of the nation.

Obviously, my view of the Trump campaign is not a flattering one. Am I a partisan? I have spent all of my life cultivating relationships with my Republican counterparts, and have succeeded because of our mutual respect. But I draw the line when it comes to Donald Trump. I just don’t think he is the true face of America.

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

Amityville

Phone: (516) 569-4000

Fax: (516) 569-4942

HERALD

HeraLd editoriaL

Calling for fire safety, honoring local volunteers

With Fire Prevention Week — Oct. 6-12 — upon us, it’s important to reflect on the significance of fire safety in our communities, and to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians who keep us safe.

These men and women are truly local heroes, but they are also neighbors just a phone call away who risk their lives in hazardous situations that include fires and floods. They should never be taken for granted, and this annual observance serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in preventing fires and responding to emergencies of all kinds.

There are 71 fire departments in Nassau County — 69 all-volunteer, and two with both professionals and volunteers — along with six volunteer ambulance corps that provide fire, technical rescue and emergency medical help, all serving 1.3 million residents. In Suffolk, more than 125 volunteer fire and EMS agencies serve that county’s population of more than 1.5 million.

Fire Prevention Week is a nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness of fire hazards and promoting practices that can saves lives. President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed it a national observance in 1925 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which devastated much of the city and claimed hundreds of lives.

“Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!” is this year’s theme. The goal is to

Letters

educate people about the crucial role smoke alarms play in preventing injury and death when a fire breaks out in a home.

Three of every five home fire deaths occur in properties without working smoke alarms, and the risk of dying in a house fire is cut in half when there are functioning alarms, according to the National Fire Protection Association. This underscores the fact that fire prevention isn’t just about avoiding accidents — it’s about saving lives.

The American Red Cross also stresses the importance of installing smoke alarms. At the organization’s Sound the Alarm events, volunteers install smoke alarms for free. For more information, go to RedCross.org.

Education is paramount, too. Children, adults and seniors benefit from learning how to prevent fires and to respond appropriately if one breaks out. Teaching children not to play with matches, encouraging adults to avoid being distracted while cooking and reminding seniors to be mindful of electrical appliances are just a few essential lessons that can reduce the likelihood of fires.

It’s also important to honor the brave people who respond when fires and other emergencies occur. Volunteer firefighters often juggle full-time jobs and family responsibilities, yet they still make time to respond to calls for help — whether it’s a house fire, a car accident or a medical emergency.

Letter writer defending D’Esposito was ‘splitting hairs’

To the Editor:

In his letter last week, “Is D’Esposito vulnerable to a House probe?” Christopher Kane complained that the Herald owes Congressman Anthony D’Esposito an apology for an article about the hiring of his mistress and the daughter of his fiancée that was headlined “D’Esposito faces ethics probe over hiring.” Kane argued, in part, that D’Esposito didn’t violate any ethics rules because he wasn’t married to his fiancée.

However, according to a Sept. 23 article in The New York Times, “The House code of conduct prohibits members of Congress from employing spouses or relatives, including stepchildren. Though Mr. D’Esposito has never married, congressional ethics experts said that employing a woman akin to his stepdaughter, who shared a home with him, could breach the requirement that members of Congress ‘adhere to the spirit and the letter of the rules.’”

The Times article continued, “A separate provision adopted in the wake of the #MeToo movement explicitly states that lawmakers ‘may not engage in a sexual relationship with any employee of the House who works under the supervision of the member.’”

They undergo extensive training to ensure that they are equipped to handle the myriad dangerous conditions that can arise in an emergency, and they are often the only line of defense when a home catches fire and lives are on the line. It’s no wonder that so many people find firefighters’ dedication so inspiring.

The same is true for volunteer EMTs, who provide critical care during medical emergencies, administering life-saving treatment before a victim can be transported to a hospital. Their swift action and expertise often mean the difference between life and death.

A former Suffolk County volunteer firefighter and EMT who continues to serve as a paid paramedic and a New York City police officer explained why he became a first responder.

“I wanted to participate in something that allowed me to help my neighbors at their most vulnerable points in life, while also providing me with valuable life experience and training,” he told the Herald. “The fire department put me on a path to serve the people and communities that I live and work in, as well as (having) a second family I know would come to my aid should my family or I need it.”

We strongly urge you to be there for your local fire department’s next fundraiser or open house, salute the volunteers at their next holiday parade and, if you’re able, consider becoming one of them.

Although D’Esposito was not married to his fiancée, with whom he was allegedly cohabiting, it appears that in his letter, Kane was doing nothing more than splitting hairs!

Lastly, while he criticizes Laura Gil-

len, who “identifies as a Catholic,” apparently Kane is not that troubled by D’Esposito’s reported affair with a married woman (which ended her marriage) while he was engaged to someone else.

opinions After reforms, NUMC is on the upswing

For decades, Nassau university Medical Center has towered above the landscape, representing our community’s commitment to quality health care — for everyone. Public hospitals across the state face enormous challenges, and NuMC is no different. but as we close in on two years of executing substantial reforms, this irreplaceable institution is proving resilient and improving. at long Island’s largest public safety-net hospital and level 1 trauma center, each year the unwavering dedication of our staff provides $1 billion in services to more than 270,000 patients. Many of those patients are from our most at-risk populations, who can’t afford to pay for care and otherwise wouldn’t receive treatment.

leveraging new financial standards and practices, more-efficient systems and a renewed commitment to the patient and visitor experience, we are proving that we can be a model for success. our dedication to strengthening the foundations of the facility has recently been recognized by top health care organizations.

In august, after a rigorous evalua-

tion, NuMC earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of approval for Hospital accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its high-performance standards. to achieve this accreditation, NuMC underwent an indepth, multi-day, unannounced onsite review by a team that judged compliance standards in several key areas, including patient rights, infection control, surgical services and patient safety.

the hospital received two prestigious awards from the American Heart Association.

Just days later, NuMC’s team was again recognized, receiving two prestigious awards from the american Heart association. the hospital was honored with aHa’s Get With the Guidelines and Mission: lifeline achievement awards, reflecting our team’s adherence to the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines for heart disease and stroke. the aHa also noted that our efforts have led to improved patient outcomes, including more lives saved, shorter recovery times and reduced hospital readmissions. these awards come as we prepare for the construction and opening of a new Cath lab in 2025 that will enable the hospital to perform more lifesaving heart procedures on site. our emergency Room staff also continues to demonstrate excellence and success under the stress of a growing patient population. In September, after an in-depth investigative report by

Letters

Do we really want to be represented by someone who is so ethically challenged?

RobeRt tolle Cedarhurst

Abortion rights must be enshrined in N.Y.’s Constitution

to the editor:

I was unclear about Proposition 1, and my concern grew when I learned that women in states with abortion bans are dying. I wondered if New York’s abortion laws could withstand the radical extremists influencing our Supreme Court, Congress and potentially the White House. Despite Republican assurances against a national abortion ban, I remain skeptical, especially since the Supreme Court previously deemed Roe v. Wade settled law.

Moreover, the G o P made no effort to block the proposed ban on the abortion pill. While an outright abortion ban may not be imminent, without enshrining abortion rights in New York’s Constitution, it’s plausible that there will be attempts to erode women’s rights gradually. For these reasons, it’s crucial to condemn the fearmongering falsehoods spread by the radi-

Newsday on the crisis of long emergency room wait times on long Island, NuMC’s was ranked second out of all hospitals for average patient wait time, despite the fact that we serve more than 65,000 emergency patients each year. these recognitions required strategic planning, rigorous training and a culture of excellence that permeates every level of our organization. our staff of more than 3,600 undergo continuous evaluations and specialized training to ensure that we meet the highest standards of care, which is particularly crucial because we serve a diverse community with unique health needs.

While previous leadership spent money on new executive offices, we’re focusing on enriching the patient experience and expanding our services. We recently extended our onsite clinical office hours on tuesdays and Wednesdays until 9 p.m. for our pediatric, women’s health, general medicine and physical therapy services. Starting this month, we will have Saturday clinic hours as well for the first time.

this expansion helps make prevention and treatment more convenient for working families, and reduces emergency room visits. our first NuMC van was just delivered to help those with transportation needs. the opening of our

cal right about the ballot initiative and to vote “yes” on Proposition 1.

StePHaNIe CaPuaNo Wantagh

Now Trump will approve the SALT deduction?

to the editor:

then-President Donald trump and the Republicans limited our income tax deduction for state and local taxes. For two years the Republicans have controlled the House, so why haven’t Congressman a nthony D’esposito and the MaGa Republicans in the House introduced legislation to give us back our Salt deductions?

Now, in a desperate attempt to help D’ e sposito keep his House seat, t rump comes to New York and tells us he’s going to give us back the Salt deduction. He’ll do that right after he finishes building the wall and Mexico pays for it. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. It won’t be all bad when D’esposito loses the election. His friends in the town of Hempstead will give him a good job.

DeNNIS PatRICk bRaDY Rockville Centre

new Community engagement Center, our first public open house, our recent back-to-School program and other initiatives are also part of our effort to ensure that NuMC remains a hub for the broader community.

NuMC has long been a cornerstone of health care in Nassau County — more than just a hospital, we are a trusted partner and a critical lifeline for our neighbors. our hospital is often the first place people turn in times of need. We take our unique responsibility very seriously.

these certifications, initiatives and facility upgrades are just a small sample of the exciting results from nearly two years of management and operational reforms.

While NuMC continues to face financial challenges due to drastic state funding cuts that have not been restored, we are committed to building on the success of our recent fiscal reforms to safeguard this vital community resource.

NuMC is a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of our community. It represents our commitment to caring for one another. our collective support for the hospital means that our area will avoid the health care crises that plague other communities across the nation. Residents will have the peace of mind knowing they have a public hospital ready to meet any challenge.

Megan C. Ryan is interim president and CEO of Nassau University Medical Center.

Framework by Tim Baker

Election Letters to the Editor policy

In the interest of fairness and transparency during the election season, we will not publish letters in the Oct. 31-Nov. 6 issue, the final one before Election Day, that criticize a candidate or a specific issue. This is to ensure that no last-minute submissions are published without sufficient opportunity for rebuttal. Readers are encouraged to send letters to execeditor@liherald.com.

At the Family Street Festival — Bellmore

meGan C. rYan

Promoting unity and peace at Amityville Memorial High School

Amityville Memorial High School’s National Art Honor Society recently unveiled their Unity project.

In collaboration with the high school’s art teachers, the honor society crafted large, colorful letters that spelled out unity through papier-mâché. The project is now on display in the school’s art wing, and was created with the hope of bringing people throughout the school community together, junior and honor society member Elidi Laquidara said.

“We thought that this would be a great way to bring students together,” Laquidara said. “We’re hoping that this will bring unity to the school.”

Additionally, the group celebrated World Peace Day by sending their wishes for peace in the world during the school’s daily announcements.

Third graders ‘draw up’ goals at Deauville Gardens East

Copiague Marching Band places first in NYS Field Band Conference

The Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School marching band opened their 2024 season by taking first place at the New York State Field Band Conference competition on Sun., Sept. 15 in Brentwood. The band then hosted

their home show the following weekend at Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School. “We’re excited for the season ahead, and this first win was an exciting start,” said director Tristan Hayes.

Third graders in Ashley Capuana’s class at Deauville Gardens East Elementary School in the Copiague School District began the school year by setting individual goals. The students brainstormed one word that best described their goal for the 2024-25

school year before coloring and designing the word in large letters. The students were also tasked with describing why and how the word correlates with their goals for the year. Third graders chose words including confidence, peace and focus, to name a few.