Amityville Herald 10_16_2024

HERALD aMIT yvIllE

RECoRD ROUNDTABLE

Amityville firefighters at the scene of house fire on Meadown lane October 5.

Amityville home destroyed by fire Community reaching out to help family

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Amityville community has come together to assist a local family whose home on Meadow Lane was destroyed by fire Saturday, Oct. 5. The couple, Yasmin and Jeff Cohill, have two young children and lost their home and almost everything in it, including some of their pets. Saved, however, was the family dog.

“They suffered the unimaginable, unthinkable tragedy; they lost their house and some of their fur babies. Both cars are destroyed, and the rest is unknown at this point, but they have shelter for the time being until they start this nightmare of a journey to rebuild. Please help if you can,” wrote Erin Gonzalez, who has established a GoFundMe page (https://shorturl.at/53InC) for the family.

In addition, residents are collecting clothing and household items for the family. The boys and girls are both youth medium. Items can be delivered to the home of Tracey Cullen Herbert at 54 Bay Avenue, Amityville and placed in the bins on the covered porch.

The fire was reported at approximately 5 p.m. and upon arrival Amityville firefighters found heavy fire and smoke conditions on the second floor of the split home. One occupant was at home when the fire occurred but had escaped safely and uninjured before police and firefighters arrived. She was taken to a local hospital for smoke inhalation.

Amityville Fire Chief Stephen Juliano said approximately 20 Amityville volunteers were at the scene and were assisted by about 30 oth ers from Copiague, North Amityville, Mass

Copiague’s Rigaud Destime pursues basketball dream

Athlete tries out for Long Island Nets

By NIKO SCARLATOS Correspondent

For many young boys, growing up to be a professional basketball player is a cherished dream. Copiague’s Rigaud Destime recently took a significant step toward that goal by trying out for the Long Island Nets, the Brooklyn Nets’ affiliate in the NBA G League.

Raised in Copiague, Destime played basketball at the College of Staten Island, where he helped his team win a conference championship as a freshman. Although his sophomore season ended with a loss in the conference title game, he earned a spot on the All-Conference Tournament team.

After completing his four years at Staten Island, Destime traveled to Madrid, where he earned a master’s degree while playing basketball at the semiprofessional level. “That was a great experience for me,” he said. “I loved every second of my time in Madrid.”

Upon returning to the United States, Destime’s passion for basketball remained strong. When he learned of the Long Island Nets’ tryouts, he seized the opportunity. “I think it went well,” Destime said. “The coaching staff runs a great program that allows us to showcase our talent, so I’m glad I

was given the chance.”

Pursuing a dream that many consider unrealistic is challenging, but Destime encourages young athletes not to be deterred. “My advice to kids with sports dreams is to work smarter, not harder,” he said. “Talent is not always everything. Be disciplined and ask the right questions.”

He also emphasized the importance of overcoming fear. “Do not be afraid to put yourself out there,” he said. “You never know, you might find yourself in a room that you didn’t think you would be in.”

Making the Long Island Nets and making an impact on the team is within reach. Last year, Kameron Hankerson, a tryout participant, played in 28 games for Long Island during the 2022-23 season and competed for Brooklyn in the Las Vegas Summer League. Craig Randall II also rose from tryouts to training camp, eventually being named the G League’s Most Improved Player.

Destime’s pursuit of his lifelong dream is inspiring, making him an easy player to root for. Regardless of whether he lands a spot on the 2024-25 Long Island Nets roster, his efforts have not gone unnoticed in his hometown of Copiague.

Photo Credit/GoFundMe

Babylon’s IDA hosts event focusing on mental health

The Babylon Industrial Development Agency (IDA) recently hosted its latest Business Summit Series at the East Farmingdale Fire House, focusing on the vital topic of mental health and wellness in the workplace. This event featured a panel of experts, including Dr. Annmarie Wacha-Montes, Clinical Director at Northwell Health; Diana Lillo, Co-Founder of Moss Wellness Workspace; and Rob Labiento, Director of the Town of Babylon’s Health and Wellness Program.

Coinciding with World Mental Health Day on October 10, the summit emphasized the urgent need for businesses to prioritize mental health in professional environments. “Mental health is an issue that touches every industry, and businesses need to be proactive in supporting their employees’ well-being,” said Tom Dolan, CEO of the Babylon IDA. He stressed the importance of fostering open dialogue, reducing stigma, and implementing effective wellness initiatives through events like this.

Dr. Wacha-Montes highlighted the essential role supportive environments play in helping employees manage trauma and stress, which can enhance workforce resilience and productivity. “Mental health is integral to every workplace,” she stated, urging employers to create cultures that recognize and support mental health

Fall

into

challenges.

The panelists discussed various approaches to promoting mental health and wellness, particularly in today’s fast-paced work environments. Dr. Wacha-Montes emphasized the importance of trauma-informed practices, advocating for a supportive culture for employees experiencing stress or trauma. She noted that businesses should implement strategies that acknowledge the impact of traumatic experiences, enabling employees to feel safe and supported at work.

Lillo addressed the significance of workplace design in promoting mental well-being. She argued that the physical environment significantly influences employees’ mental health.

“Workplace design goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that naturally foster well-being,” she said. Environments that encourage relaxation and creativity can significantly enhance productivity and overall employee satisfaction.

Labiento offered practical strategies for developing sustainable wellness programs, even for businesses with limited budgets. “A successful wellness program doesn’t require a huge budget or extensive space,” he noted.

“It starts with small, sustainable steps that prioritize both physical and mental health.” His insights resonated with small and medium-sized busi -

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nesses that may feel overwhelmed by the challenges of implementing comprehensive wellness initiatives.

This summit marked the second installment of the IDA’s Business Summit Series for 2024, reflecting its commitment to addressing pressing issues affecting the local business community. “Through panels like this, we can collaborate and find innovative solutions that benefit both businesses and the broader community,” Dolan said.

The Babylon IDA hopes to reinforce the importance of mental health and wellness as part of its broader mission to drive economic growth and enhance community well-being, said officials. By facilitating discussions among experts, the IDA seeks to promote a skilled workforce capable of adapting to the evolving needs of modern businesses.

The panelists also participated in a Q&A session, allowing attendees to address specific concerns related to mental health in their workplaces. Questions ranged from initiating wellness

programs to addressing stigma among employees hesitant to seek help. The panelists reiterated that open communication and a culture of support are crucial for encouraging employees to prioritize their mental health.

As the summit concluded, attendees were encouraged to take the insights gained from the discussions back to their organizations and consider how to implement new strategies for promoting mental health and wellness. Emphasis was placed on creating actionable plans that can lead to lasting improvements in workplace culture. Overall, the event served as a vital platform for sharing knowledge and fostering connections among local businesses committed to enhancing employee well-being. By continuing to address the complex issue of mental health in the workplace, the Babylon IDA supports the local business community and contributes to a broader movement aimed at improving mental health awareness and resources across industries.

Community working to help family displaced by house fire

Continued from page 1

apequa, North Lindenhurst, South Farmingdale, and the Village of Farmingdale. West Babylon and Lindenhurst were on standby at the Amityville firehouse.

Two firefighters suffered from heat exhaustion; one was taken to the hospital while the other was treated at the scene.

“My first engines did a great job at the scene in stretching hoses into the home and knocking the fire down significant-

ly,” said Juliano. “And the other departments that were called out for mutual aid were there in a timely fashion and we appreciate that.”

Also quickly responding were neighbors who were there immediately to help the family out, said Juliano. “When something like this happens it is nice to know that everyone is there—the volunteers and the community—to help out as much as we can.”

Photo Courtesy/IDA

Shown are Marcus Duffin, Babylon IDA Board Member; Tom Dolan, Babylon IDA CEO; Diana Lillo, Co-Founder of Moss Wellness Workspace and Founder of Inspire Design; Dr. Annmarie Wacha-Montes, Clinical Director for Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience & Recovery at Northwell Health; Gerry Compitello, Babylon Town Clerk; Rob Labiento, Town of Babylon Health and Wellness Program Director; and Bill Lindsay III, Panel Moderator.

NYS Sen. Alexis Weik is running for reelection

By MIKE POLANSKY Correspondent

New York State Senator Alexis Weik, who represents the 8th Senatorial District, is seeking reelection. She faces opposition from Democrat Francis R. Dolan, but information from the Suffolk County Democratic Committee indicated that he is not running an active campaign.

A lifelong Suffolk County resident, Weik grew up in Ronkonkoma and Oakdale. She graduated from Connetquot High School and earned an associate degree from Farmingdale State College and a business degree from Dowling College. She and her husband, Jim, a retired Suffolk County police officer, live in Sayville and have three children, one of whom is also a police officer. They also have one granddaughter.

Weik served as Receiver of Taxes for the Town of Islip from 2011 to 2020, focusing on customer service and operational efficiency. “I loved that job,” she said. “There’s nothing better in the world like helping solve people’s problems.”

Now completing her second full term in the Senate, Weik is a member of several committees, including Civil Service and Pensions, Women’s Issues, Education, Local Government, Social Services, and Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs.

Weik emphasizes that listening to her constituents is key to her role. “It’s not what Alexis Weik thinks; it’s what does my district want; it’s my job to represent my district,” she said, noting her enjoyment of community engagement.

She has applied this philosophy to her votes on the controversial Equal Rights Amendment, which will be on the ballot in November as Proposition No. 1. In 2022, while representing a more liberal constituency in the for -

mer 3rd Senate District, she voted in favor of it. However, after reapportionment, she was representing the more conservative 8th District, she voted against it.

Weik expressed concerns about the transgender provisions in Proposition No. 1, stating, “I’m not anti-transgender, but I am firmly against people who were born male competing in women’s sports. It’s dangerous and abusive. Women have fought so hard for equality for more than a hundred years. No matter how equal we may be in our brain power and ability to get a job done, women are not as physically strong as men.”

NYS Senator Alexis Weik, a Republican, i s seeking reelection in the 8th SD

She is also passionate about revitalizing Long Island’s wetlands, saying, “Our wetlands are dying, and they’re the reason that we’re flooding so badly, and the more flooding, the more the wetlands erode.” She is working on a plan to replace invasive phragmites with native plants and highlights the success of revitalizing Brown’s River in Islip.

On the issue of New York being a “Sanctuary State” for illegal immigrants, Weik called it “a terrible idea that costs New York money that we don’t have.”

She added, “It’s cruel, it’s inhumane, and we need to stop it.”

Weik criticized state-level education policies, quipping, “I think that the governor needs to go back to

The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police and other local police and fire departments.

CARS DAMAGED IN STORE PARKING LOTS

Copiague: A vehicle that was parked in the Target department store parking lot at 1149 Sunrise Highway was damaged. The owner reports the front driver side area of the vehicle was apparently struck by another driver who left the scene. That occurred Sept. 29 at approximately 1 p.m.

Amityville: A truck that was parked in the parking lot of C-Town shopping center, 721 North Broadway, was damaged when someone apparently threw a rock into the vehicle;s windshield, causing it to shatter. The incident occurred Sept. 29 at 1 p.m. LARCENY

school.” She opposes the elimination of the “hold harmless” feature of state foundation aid, which she believes would deprive schools of necessary funding. She also views the mandate for all school buses to be electric by 2035 as “unrealistic, unaffordable, and unsafe.”

Additionally, Weik and her Republican colleagues voted against a new state law moving many local elections from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years, stating, “When you glom them all into one year, you’ve lost all the individual messages of all the individuals running for office,”she said. She became emotional discussing the “bail reform” legislation enacted by the Democratic majority. “Our state has done everything in its power to take away the desire to be a police officer, the effectiveness of being a police officer, law and order in our communities, and the consequences for actions, and they’ve been very successful at it,” she emphasized. “The Democrat Party has passed every kind of atrocious, horrifying, and dangerous bill they could think of. They have turned New York State into a dangerous, irresponsible disaster. The Democrat Party, and only the Democrat Party, wears that responsibility around their neck, and every time someone dies because of it, the blood is on their hands.”

CRIME WATCH

Amityville: Police retrieved a bike that had been reported stolen from a location on Broadway and was able to return it to its owner on Oct. 1. No one was charged in that incident.

Amitville: A clerk at the 7-Eleven store at 282 Merrick Road called police Sept. 4, shortly after midnight, to report that a customer was causing a disturbance. The person went into the store, removed merchandise and fled south on Grand Central Ave. in a vehicle.

ARRESTS

John Jerrick, 24, of 17 Prospect St., Amityville was arrested and charged for an incident that occurred at 3:50 a.m., Sept. 28 on Avon Drive. The police said his vehicle struck a police vehicle.

Driving while intoxicated or impaired: Jennifer Myers, 37, of 782 Ber -

muda Rd., West Babylon; Christian Velasconaranjo, 46 of 55 Corey La., East Meadow; Carlos Gaviria, 52 of 248 Silver St., West Babylon. Grand Larceny: Jean Simon, 35, of 17 W. Kissemee Rd., Lindenhurst. Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Danielle Giannini, 43 of 15

About the district

The 8th Senate District spans Long Island’s South Shore, including Ronkonkoma, Holbrook, Bohemia, and Sayville in the east, extending through Islip, Bay Shore, Babylon, Lindenhurst, and Amityville to parts of Farmingdale, as well as all of the Massapequas in the west.

Eighty percent of the district’s residents are non-Hispanic White, 12 percent are Hispanic, 3 percent are Black, and 2 percent are Asian. The median household income in the district is $133,507. For comparison, the median household income in the neighboring 3rd District, which includes Patchogue, Bellport, Coram, Selden, Shirley, and Mastic, is $111,090.

With 171,764 enrolled voters, Republicans hold an edge in registration, with 111,094 voters registered as Democrats and 134,098 voters choosing not to enroll in a party. Weik was re-elected in 2022, receiving 69.3% of the vote against Democrat John Alberts, who garnered 30.7%.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 5. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Early voting is available at designated locations through Sunday, November 3.

Raleigh La., King Park. Petit Larceny: Thomas Koehler, 36, of 18 Sophia Ct., West Babylon; Cristobal Cercadocineros, 62, of 898 Goodrich St., Uniondale. Criminal Possession of Stolen Property: Rohmel Palmer, 40, address unknown.

NEWS BRIEFS

First United Methodist Church hosting Fall Fling Sat., Oct. 19

The First United Methodist Church will be hosting a Fall Fling on Sat., Oct. 19 from 10 a. m. to 3 p. m. The rain date will be scheduled for Sat., Oct. 26. There will be a Farmers Market as well as

craft and artisan vendors. The First United Methodist Church is at 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152.

Newspapers Reborn: Communities get their local news back after NY coalition wins tax credit

By AMANDA MOTT

Earlier this year, the Amityville Herald Record joined more than 200 other local newspapers in New York State to launch the Empire State Local News Coalition, which successfully advocated for a state tax credit to support jobs in local newsrooms across the state.

Special to the Herald Richner, founder of the Empire State Local News Coalition and director of Richner Communications, which owns the Long Island Herald newspapers.

Now, the fruits of this effort are paying off.

Spurred by the Newspaper and Broadcast Media Jobs Program — the nation’s first tax credit incentivizing hiring at local media outlets — three new local newspapers were launched earlier this month in areas previously impacted by newsroom closures in Westchester and on Long Island.

Two of the three Westchester communities that lost their newspapers earlier this year saw the founding of the Rivertowns Dispatch (Ardsley, Hastings-OnHudson, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington) and The Recorder (Bedford, Lewisboro, Pound Ridge). A third newspaper, the Floral Park Villager, debuted on Long Island in a community that lost its own weekly paper during the Covid-19 pandemic, further demonstrating the program’s ability to revive local journalism and reestablish connections within these communities.

“When we support local journalism, our communities win,” said Zachary

He added, “The launch of new local, independent news outlets in Westchester and Long Island is a testament to the momentum created by New York’s passage of the nation’s first tax credit for hiring at local media outlets. We started the Empire State Local News Coalition after some of these very communities lost vital news sources earlier this year and are thrilled by this resurgence in a shockingly short amount of time.”

The Empire State Local News Coalition, which represents over 200 New York newspapers, was instrumental in advocating for the program’s inclusion in the State budget, which offers a 50 percent refundable tax credit on the first $50,000 of each employee’s salary, with a cap of $300,000 per business over three years. The passage of this bill aims to help combat the state’s rapid decline in local journalism in New York. The state has lost nearly half of its newspapers and thousands of media jobs over the past two decades.

Publishers of the new newspapers shared their optimism and positive outlook for their industry in light of the Newspaper and Broadcast Media Jobs program. Allison Schulte, publisher of the Rivertowns Dispatch, said, “We launched

ANNIVERSARY

the Rivertowns Dispatch to bring back local news to the communities of Hastingson-Hudson, Irvington, Ardsley & Dobbs Ferry after our old local newspaper closed earlier this year. We launched the Rivertowns Dispatch because we believe starting with a shared set of facts makes for richer community life, and that newspapers can be fun as well as useful.”

She added, “We are thrilled for the passage of the New York Newspaper and Broadcast Media Jobs Program because it makes it easier for us to hire full-time, quality journalists to share the news and information our communities want and need. We are so grateful to the Empire State Local News Coalition for its advocacy in bringing urgency to the challenges facing New York’s local media industry.”

Lloyd Trufelman, co-founder and publisher of The Recorder, highlighted the critical role of local news in preserving democracy: “The launch of The Recorder, a nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom, shows New Yorkers recognize that a healthy democracy depends on access to reliable, quality news sources to stay informed.”

Trufelman expressed hope that similar policies would continue to bolster nonprofit news outlets and support a diversified local news ecosystem.

On Long Island, Meg Morgan Norris, publisher of the Floral Park Villager, emphasized the program’s importance in the decision to launch the new paper. “The loss of Floral Park’s longtime newspaper, the Gateway Bulletin, during the Covid-19 pandemic was devastating for this tight-knit community. With the tax credit, there is a path to long-term fiscal stability for outlets like ours,” Norris said.

As local journalism continues to face evolving challenges, the Empire State Local News Coalition and Amityville Record Herald remain committed to advocating for long-term sustainability in the industry so that communities like Amityville have trusted local news sources.

These new publications mark a hopeful step forward in the resurgence of local media across New York, with the coalition pushing for continued legislative support to ensure the long-term sustainability of local journalism.

NEWS BRIEFS

Type O blood donations urgently needed

There is a critical shortage of Type O

cal.

“As Long Island faces a critical shortage of Type O blood, I urge residents to help save lives by donating as soon as possible,” said Martinez. “Having an adequate supply of blood products during medical emergencies can make the difference between life and death. Be a lifesaver, make a donation today.”

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

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024

Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, NY

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

NYBC hosts daily blood drives and operates 19 area donor centers to reach donors and meet local hospitals’ needs. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, find a donor center near you or schedule an appointment, visit nybc.org or call 1-800-688-0900.

cjames@liherald.com

ereynolds@liherald.com rglickman@liherald.com legalnotices@amityvillerecord.com

Copiague Chamber of Commerce invites sponsors for Hometown Holiday Magic

The Copiague Chamber of Commerce will be presenting Copiague’s Hometown Holiday Magic, and they are welcoming everyone to join in the fun of making Copiague shine this holiday season by sponsoring a holiday tree at Gateway Park.

The Holiday Light Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will be taking place on Sun., Dec. 8. The parade will begin at 5 p.m. and the ceremony will be at 6 p.m. Decorate your tree and your business logo will be celebrated throughout the season from November 30 to December 1. Sign-up now as there are a limited num-

ber of trees available. The cost is $100. The Chamber will provide the tree and lights and you provide the decorations. Please, no glass. Decorations are to be removed January 11.

Make checks payable to: Copiague Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 8, Copiague, NY 11726, and include your name, business, phone number and email address.

For more information, call (631) 2262956.

Gateway Park is located at 2295 Great Neck Rd., Copiague.

Learn Latin dancing at Amityville Library

Amityville Public Library will be hosting Latin Mix Dance classes on October 19 and 26, November 2, 9, 16, 30 and December 7 and 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

If you have ever wanted to learn Latin dancing in a supportive environment, this course is for you. The classes will cover Salsa, Merengue, Rumba and Cha Cha. The course will also cover

styling, timing and musicality.

To register, the fee is $10 check, cash or money order, and can be made payable to the Amityville Public Library or be brought to the Circulation Desk in the library.

The Amityville Public Library is located at 19 John St., Amityville.

For more information, please call (631) 264-0567.

Kiwanis Club of Amityville plans annual Field of Honor

In honor of Veterans 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 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., Nov.r 2 and the dismantling will take place on Sat., Nov. 20 at 8 a.m.

Your flag and yellow ribbon will be

available for you to pick up as your memento once the filed has been dismantled.

A large percentage of the proceeds will be donated to a local veterans organization.

The cost is $25 for a flag 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, email amityvillekiwanis@gmail.com or contact K. Schmidt at (631) 598-0744.

Narrow defeats sting Copiague

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

With just three games remaining, Copiague’s boys’ soccer team finds itself with a record of 5-8 overall, including a 1-4 mark in league play.

While the door is still open for the Eagles to make a run, they have suffered some heartbreaking losses along the way. “This has really been a torturous stretch,” coach Jim Konen said. “Multiple times we have given up a game-winning goal in the final two minutes.”

During those games against Newfield, a game they lost 2-1, and Bay Shore, where they fell 3-2, the Eagles also had scoring chances of their own late in the game but were unable to capitalize.

“We have battled the whole way in each contest,” said Konen. “It’s just been super unfortunate to see things not go our way. We have been very unlucky.”

Despite some tough losses Copiague has suffered along the way, Konen has been pleased with the players’ attitude as they continue to move forward. “I like our attitude at practice,” he said. “The spirits are still really high which is important, especially during this time of year.”

A big reason for all the positivity is thanks in large part to two veteran leaders. Senior midfielders Christian Cabrera and Anthony Ramierez have both played huge roles in terms of leadership. “Anthony is a four year varsity player while Christian has been on varsity for three years and you can tell by the way they have led,” said Konen. “It’s been awesome to see them take that next step this season.”

As for the approach going into the final three games against Connetquot, Lindenhurst, and Bay Shore, the Eagles’ goal is to continue to keep their foot on the gas pedal. “We have to play desperately,” Konen said. “We are close to being eliminated at this point so we need points in every contest which is something we are capable of if we play the right way.”

One of the biggest keys to success for Copiague has been its ball movement. In its 3-2 win over Sachem North Oct. 10, that

HERALD SPORTS Babylon in ‘drive for five’ mode

Odane

proved to be the case. “We had assists on all three goals in that game,” said Konen, referring to the helpers from Jon Contreras-Mejia, Kevin Cruz and Ismael Garcia. “When we move the ball, we are a really good team.”

When looking for offense the team looks to guys like Cruz, who leads the team with seven goals, and Anthony Ramierez, who has scored in each of the last three contests. The Eagles have also seen offensive contributions from junior midfielder Ismael Garcia, who netted a goal in a 5-2 loss to Commack Oct. 10.

Kendel Serranno has had a steady year in goal as well, recording 73 saves, so his clutch play will certainly be needed down the stretch, along with help from defenders Rene Canales and Odane Purcell, who both do a lot on the back end.

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Post season time is on the horizon which means the Babylon boys’ soccer team is gearing up for what it hopes is another deep run.

The four time defending Suffolk County champions have started this season 11-1 overall with a perfect 11-0 record in league play.

Coach Dennis McGovern has been coaching soccer in Babylon for a long time and has been at the helm of the boys program for 10 years, following a 12-year stint coaching the girls’ team.

Due to his extended time at Babylon, he knows his players very well. “I have been coaching this year’s senior class since they were in eighth grade,” McGovern said. “They have won the county championship four times which shows that they all have tons of experience.”

McGovern has built the program in a perfect way. “Our culture here has been outstanding,” he said. “Everyone knows what it takes to win around here.”

What has allowed Babylon to keep this culture year after year is the success. “The tradition of us winning has allowed new guys to look up to that when they arrive,” said McGovern. “I would say that’s a big reason as to why we are well on our way to yet another league title this year.”

One of the Panthers’ four captains is Michael Burke, who McGovern called the best player in the league. “He’s everything to us,” McGovern said.

Another captain is two time All-State midfielder Ciaran Stein. Aidan Krollage, who leads the balanced attack with 13 points, and Aidan Kistner are the other two captains and all four have done a great job leading the charge. “We would not be this good without the four of them,” McGovern said.

Another key contributor has been Charlie Murphy. The senior currently leads the Panthers with 9 goals. “We are so glad to have Charlie back from Chaminade,” said McGovern. “His goal scoring ability has been huge for us.”

In the box, Trace Cerrone has been keeping opponents at bay all season long and is a huge reason why the Panthers have an impressive eight shutout victories. “Trace is one of the best goalies in the league,” McGovern said.

Even with all the winning for Babylon over the last few years, there is still so much motivation. “We have lost the last two years in the Long Island championship game,” said McGovern. “The motivation to win both a Long Island and State title, which is very much in reach this year, is what keeps our players humble.”

That motivation has led to a team motto this year of “stay humble and work hard,” and the hope is that this year’s Babylon team will get over the hump.

The Panthers still have regular-season games against Greenport, Pierson/ Binghampton, and Center Moriches before the Class B playoffs open.

Sheryl Amorosino/Herald

Purcell, left, is one of Copiague’s strong contributors on the defensive end.

Sheryl Amorosino/Herald

Dominic Kunhla, left, and the Panthers are seeking not only a fifth straight county title but also L.I. and state crowns.

A Bushel of Apple Activities at Deauville Gardens West

To kick off the fall season, students in Sarah Ottati and Matthew Schneider’s classes at Deauville Gardens West Elementary School in the Copiague School District participated in interdisciplinary apple activities. Students took part

in measuring apples and tested whether their parts would sink or float. They then examined the apples’ different features and wrote about their favorite kind. After taking tallies, the classes voted green apples as their favorite variety.

Keep Your Change inaugurates its

Sneaker Fall, 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 October 26

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

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.

BV Historical Society presents The 40’s in film October 18th

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.

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.

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.

Photos courtesy/Copiague School District

The Xolo’s journey from Aztec reverence to lifesaving therapist

This time of year, dog lovers commemorating Indigenous Peoples Day may want to learn about a North American indigenous breed that was developed and revered by the Aztecs.

“Happiness is a warm puppy.” The Aztecs understood the truth of this long before Snoopy or Charlie Brown. They invented the canine heating pad, known today as the Mexican Hairless or Xolo, a rare and ancient breed.

As far back as 3,500 years ago, the Aztecs realized that the body heat generated by Xolos—a small, often hairless dog—could soothe aching joints and sore muscles. Nancy Gordon of San Diego discovered this medical marvel in 1999 when a friend’s Xolo puppy sitting in her lap eased her constant pain from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, conditions she developed after a serious car accident. Forced to give up her practice as a social worker and relocate from Oregon to California, Gordon understood how debilitating pain could halt life as one knows it.

Gordon founded Xolos for Chronic Pain Relief™ (X-CPR™) to share this canine remedy with others suffering from chronic pain. Starting in 2002, she trained and placed Xolos to provide pain relief, assistance with daily tasks, and companionship. Xolos are natural retrievers, capable of learning to pick up dropped objects, open and close cupboards, and even pull up socks or tug on sleeves.

Living with these intuitive dogs can also help ease depression, immobility, and isolation caused by constant pain, she said. “One of my clients credits her Xolo with her ability to return to the ‘productive’ world,” Gordon noted “She was able to go back to school, acquire a job, and get off disability income, all because of how much better her Xolo made her feel.”

is no shaggy dog story

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The Toy size, weighing about 10 pounds, is ideal for therapeutic purposes. These dogs instinctively drape themselves over necks, knees, and limbs to relieve arthritic aches. Gordon’s own dogs worked as a team: her coated Xolo provided traction to her shoulders while her hairless Xolo added warmth.

With society facing issues related to addictive pain medications, Xolos present a safer alternative. Sharon Sakson, a volunteer puppy raiser for X-CPR, is also an author, breeder of champion Brussels Griffons, and a dog show judge. She has extensively researched the healing power of dogs. While writing her book, “Paws & Effect“ (Alyson Books, 2007), she visited Gordon and was impressed by the Xolos’ abilities.

“Their instant rapport with people in pain amazes me,” Sakson said. “Xolos tend to bond with one person.”

Sakson raised Xolo puppies for the program, where Gordon purchased the pups from breeders.

After socialization, leash and crate training, and housebreaking, the pups learned commands such as “Look” and “Wait.” They were ready for placement between six months and a year old, with Gordon matching each dog’s temperament to the client’s needs.

In 2010, my veterinarian asked me to find a dog for Henry, an active gen left alone suddenly. (He had ridden his bicycle six miles a day until he turned 90.)

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 17

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

•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

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18

•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 19

•First United Methodist Church Fall Fling: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., First United Methodist Church Lawn, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 264-0152.

•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.

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

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20

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

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22

The term “Xolo” is short for “Xoloitzcuintli” (pronounced “show-low-eats-queent-lee”), derived from the name of an Aztec god and the word for “dog.” The ancients believed Xolos possessed mystical powers. According to creation stories, humans and Xolos were formed from the same Bone of Life. Xolos were a gift to humans, meant to guard them in life and guide them in the afterlife.

Over the years, the number of purebred Xolos dwindled near extinction. In the last century, the breed gained popularity among Mexican artists and celebrities, who identified only 10 authentic Xolos in remote parts of Mexico. Enthusiasts collaborated to revive the breed, with artist Diego Rivera starting his first Xolo breeding kennel in 1925. He and his wife, Frida Kahlo, kept Xolos and often featured them in their artwork.

Xolos can be hairless or coated, with the hairless pups radiating more heat. They come in three sizes:

After his best friend died, Henry adopted Aiden, the man’s dog. With little warning, Aiden succumbed to cancer. Henry’s next dog needed to weigh less than 20 pounds, because he was on a waiting list for senior housing in Connecticut.

Timing is crucial for cosmic canine matchups. The same week, Sakson mentioned that Zora—one of her Xolo pups— was too timid and a bit too big for X-CPR placement. Zora, a one-year-old coated miniature Xolo weighing 19 pounds, sounded perfect for Henry. Sakson brought Zora to Henry the next day. Love at first sight was an understatement. Zora, renamed “Rachel,” became Henry’s shadow. They were inseparable, enjoying long walks together for nine years. Rachel had a calm maturity unlike that of a typical year-old dog, reflecting the wisdom of her Aztec heritage. She soothed Henry’s loneliness and warmed his heart. “I love her, and Rachel loves me. She makes me glow,” he said.

Paw note: When Rachel died, Henry adopted a Last Hope dog named Avery. While Avery is not a Xolo, she is following in Rachel’s pawprints. Henry is now 93.

•Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-7468.

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23

•Amityville School District Board of Education Combined Session Meeting: 7:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, please call (631)-565-6000

•Town of Babylon Rental Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-4434.

• 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.

Rachel, a coated Xolo, with Henry.

Two hairless Xolo’s.

Legislator Donnelly and Office for the Aging announce upcoming Fall Senior Advocate schedules in Babylon

S.C. Leg. Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park) is informing Babylon residents about the local Suffolk County Office for the Aging Fall 2024 Senior Advocate Schedule.

Senior advocates are county representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to appropriate community agencies.

“It is so important for us to provide our senior citizens with the assistance and information they need in ways that are most convenient to them. These visits allow our seniors to connect with our county’s senior advocates right in their own communities,” said Donnelly. “I hope all those interested in the services that the Suffolk County Office for the Aging provides will take advantage of this opportunity.”

This fall, Senior Advocates will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Babylon:

•Deer Park Library, 44 Lake Avenue, Friday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

•North Amityville Nutrition Center, 48-C Cedar Road, Amityville: Wednesdays, Nov. 13 and December 18, 10 a.m. to1 p.m.

•Rainbow Center, 293 Buffalo Avenue, Lindenhurst: Wednesdays, November 6 and December 4, 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

•Tanner Park Senior Nutrition, 2 Tanner Park, Copiague: Wednesdays, November 13 and December 11, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

•Spangle Drive Center, 4385 Spangle Drive, North Babylon: Tuesdays, Oct. 29, Nov.26 and Dec. 17, 12 to 3:30 p.m.

•West Babylon Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon: Thursday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

•Wyandanch Senior Nutrition, 28 Wyandanch Avenue, Wyandanch: Wednesdays, Nov. 6 and December 4, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare, answer

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at: Amityville Herald Record, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or may call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329

We will also consider publishing clear black and white or color photos with the articles.

questions and make recommendations and referrals.

For more information about available services or directions to any of the locations, call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at (631) 853-8200.

“For more than three decades, the

Suffolk County Office for the Aging has been providing full and trouble-free access to critical services,” Donnelly said. “I am glad to see their great professional community outreach program continue and hope that every senior resident will make full use of it.”

Powell Funeral Home Inc.

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

Handicapped Accessible Pre-Need Information Available

Local Worship Schedules and Services

ST. PAUL’S

LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

Rev. Thomas W. Cusanelli

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

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

ST. MARY’S CHURCH

175 Broadway, Amityville 631-264-0004

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

Sunday:

SIMPSON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

30 Locust Ave., Amityville 631-789-2569

Rev. Akio Iyoda, Pastor SUNDAY

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

• ROMAN CATHOLIC •

Rev. Gerard Gordon Pastor Masses : Saturday 5:00 pm Sunday 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:00 Noon, and 5:00 pm Church: www.stmartinschurch.org School: www.smtschool.org 37 Union Ave. Amityville, NY 11701 • 631-264-0124

Nine Copiague students headed to All-County festivals

Nine student musicians from Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School have been selected to participate in the Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association’s All-County Division IV in either mixed chorus, treble chorus or band. T he students will perform on Nov. 15 along with select 11th and 12th graders from throughout the county.

Congratulations to Christopher Cobian, Samari Cooper, Wagner Garcia, Vaiva Kean, Daniel Kister, Mykelle Moore, Analiz Rosario and Kayla Ventura for chorus, and Rhiana Coleman for band.

In photo, some of them are shown with Copiague High School Principal Joseph Agosta, Director of Fine Arts Jennifer Ross-Troise, chorus teacher Gina Occhiogrosso and band teacher Eric Dobmeier.

Great Neck Road 3rd graders show off their research skills

Third graders in Dan Sliwowski’s class at Great Neck Road Elementary School in the Copiague School District went on a safari adventure during a recent literacy unit on animal adaptations.

The students have been studying different animals and learning about the adaptations they make to survive. Working collaboratively in small groups, they were assigned four animals to explore: an elephant, a hyena, a giraffe and a lion. The 3rd graders then conducted research on their Chromebooks, using Kiddle, a kid-friendly search engine, to identify an adaptation for each animal and how it helps them survive.

Amityville Historical Society to honor three special residents at Autumn Dinner

The Amityville Historical Society is holding its annual Autumn Dinner on Sat., Nov. 2 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club, 31 Unqua Place, Amityville.

This year’s honorees are Deputy Village Mayor Kevin Smith who will receive the William T. Lauder Award; Michele Camilleri who will receive the Distinguished Service Award and Richard Rosenbusch, CPA, who will receive the Special Recognition Award. There will be a cocktail hour, open bar and dinner and tickets are $120 per person.

For tickets, sponsorships and more information, call Ellen Ricciuti at 631-691-6391.

Third graders at Great Neck Road Elementary School

studied animal adaptations.

Photos Courtesy?Copiague School District

in the Copiague School District

Photo Courtesy/Copiague School District

STEPPING OUT

Back to the basics:

Building with BLOCKS

Young imaginations reach new heights at ‘Block Party’

By Danielle Schwab

From a futuristic spaceship to a giant castle, there’s no limit to what can be created with blocks and a little creativity.

Young “builders” are invited to show off their skills at “Block Party,” a free-play exhibit for all ages to enjoy.

But be sure to visit soon — Long Island Children’s Museum’s seasonal exhibit is short-lived. It runs through Nov. 3.

“This new exhibit for the museum is so open-ended and encourages so many different modalities of learning and types of play within the space,” says Ashley Niver, the museum’s director of education.

While kids may play with smaller blocks at home, these big foam blocks come in larger-than-life proportions — so visitors can make their biggest creations yet.

Steve Martin and Martin Short

• Now until Nov. 3

• $17 museum admission, $16 seniors 65 and older

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

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

fun.

“These are structures that they can build, that they can climb on, they can go through or under. They can use a lot of dramatic play with this since it’s all just open-ended play, which is what we love,” Niver says. “So there’s a lot of processes happening during this kind of play, and it really invites a lot of collaboration between the adults and the kids as well as peer-to-peer, to work together.”

From long, bendable cylinders to the stackable rectangles, the blocks can be used as the catalyst for an endless assortment of building projects. The results are limitless.

The blocks are all blue, intentionally so. The single block color creates a blank canvas for endless creative possibilities. By eliminating the distraction of multiple colors, children can immerse themselves fully in their designs, focusing on construction and creativity without worrying about matching hues. Thus children are able to immerse themselves fully in play, according to Niver.

“When you have a lot of visual distraction, it’s actually harder for kids to unleash their imagination and learn and have that creative output be as successful,” she explains. “So basically, having them all in one color allows a better opportunity for that to flourish.”

Prompts throughout the exhibit space guide the builders, if some inspiration for their block masterpieces is needed. Build a shelter for a real (or imaginary) pet or perhaps a robot that actually works. The exhibit even challenges everyone to see how high you can build.

For smaller creations, a table of hand-held blocks is available to play with as well.

“The appeal of this exhibit lies in its immersive quality,” Niver says. “While children are accustomed to playing with small blocks that fit in the palm of their hand, here they encounter a larger-than-life experience.”

Once the build is done, it’s time to put young imaginations to the test! Kids can put the spotlight on their creations and produce interesting shadows on the wall for interactive storytelling.

The exhibit was created in conjunction with “Worldwide Day of Play,” an initiative of Nickelodeon with the Association of Children’s Museums to get families engaged with their environment through screen-free play while fostering the benefits of skill-building activities.

“Block Party’” encourages children to develop their motor skills, enhance their muscle strength

“We think it’s really important for the kids to disconnect because they don’t have as many opportunities to do that these days. I find that screens are becoming so much more prevalent, and they’re so accessible in different areas,” Niver says.

“To really set the scene and just bring it down to the basics of building blocks, it’s so beneficial to them for their development, with a lot of social emotional learning happening.”

This is the first exhibit to be installed after the museum’s Fall Fix Up — the annual two-week closing period every September when the museum conducts maintenance and exhibit refresh, along with staff training.

“We go over different aspects of learning and play and try to educate our staff and empower them for when we reopen. We make sure that we reopen in a really impressive way for our visitors, to welcome them back,” Niver adds.

At the Block Party, no dream is too big, so it’s time to get building — one block at a time.

Photos courtesy LICM

Museum visitors are invited to an oversized “block” party where giant lightweight blocks turn playtime into extraordinary adventures. Stack them, crawl through them or team up to make dream designs come true. Construct castles, mazes, fantastical creatures or secret hideaways.

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 guests at Tilles Center’s 2024 Gala. 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.

Saturday, Oct. 19, 8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $70. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Anthony Rodia

Anthony Rodia lets loose with his “Totally Reliable” tour. A firstgeneration Italian-American, Rodia came out of the womb making people laugh. In his 20s he tried a few open mics, but ultimately took a different career path as finance manager of a luxury car dealership. In 2019, Rodia returned to comedy and left his day job to become a full-time stand-up comic. He hit the ground running and performed 100 shows in just nine months, and within three years gained a massive fan base online and around the country. In a short time, Anthony gained over 900,000 social media followers and his YouTube videos have amassed over 22 million views. Rodia’s comedy pulls from his real life and razor-sharp observations on marriage, parenthood and just about everything else.

Saturday Oct. 19, 7 and 9:30 p.m.

$89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

THE Your Neighborhood

Rock the Dock

Ambrosia, John Ford Coley and Peter Beckett (The Voice of Player), will come together for a magical night performing all of their 1970s and ‘80s Billboard Top 40 Hits, on the Tilles Center stage, Friday, oct. 25, at 8 p.m. Yacht Rock the Dock shines the spotlight on the original artists, with Elliot Lurie, as they reinvigorate their many beloved tunes. Enjoy Ambrosia’s everlasting hits including “How Much I Feel,” “You’re the Only Woman” and “Biggest Part of Me.” John Ford Coley, most known as half of the Grammy-nominated duo England Dan and John Ford Coley, performs many memorable hits, including “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” “Love Is The Answer” and “Nights Are Forever Without You.”Peter Beckett, Player’s original lead singer and songwriter. was voted by Billboard Magazine as Best New Single Artist in 1978 for Player’s hit “Baby Come Back.,” while Elliot Lurie is best known as the vocalist for Looking Glass, and sang lead on the band’s hit single “Brandy.”

These songs are the soundtrack to a generation. Today’s so-called smooth yacht rock music scene would not be yacht rock without the contributions of these Grammy winning artists. What emerged primarily from southern California during one of the greatest periods of music is a classic rock radio staple across the U.S. You cannot turn on the radio without hearing many of these songs every day. As younger generations of music fans fall in love and embrace these classic rock/soft rock hits, everyone realizes that these songs are becoming bigger now than at any time since their heyday, which by common consent stretched between 1976 and 1983. Get ready to Rock the Dock! Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at TillesCenter.org or (516) 2993100.

Movie matinee

Babylon Public Library shows the 1948 film, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, on Friday, oct. 18, 2-4 p.m. Bud Abbott and Lou Costello star in this horror comedy that has three of Universal’s most classic monsters: Frankenstein, Count Dracula and the Wolfman. For more information, call (631) 669-1624. Babylon Public, 24 S. Carll Ave., Babylon.

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

Crochet Class

North Babylon Public Library hosts a Crochet class, Wednesday, oct. 23, 6-7:45 p.m. Bring your projects and questions to crochet expert, Joan Jewhurst. Beginners, please bring an H hook and a skein of #4 worsted weight yarn. To register, call (631) 6694020. 815 Deer Park Road, N. Babylon.

AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Fair

Amvets Ladies Auxiliary 18 hosts craft and vendor fair, Saturday, Nov. 2,10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free and there will be a 50/50, raffles and a cake sale. Amvets Post # 18, 141 Carleton Avenue, East Islip. For more information or to request a space, contact Gloria Morck at (631) 277-9842, cell at (516) 885-1410 or email gcm42@aol. com.

Friday Flick

Head to the West Babylon Library on Friday, oct. 18, for a movie, on the library’s big screen,1-4:30 p.m. See “Watchers” (PG-13) in meeting room B. The film follows Mina, a 28-year-old artist, who gets stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland. When Mina finds shelter, she unknowingly becomes trapped alongside three strangers who are watched and stalked by mysterious creatures each night. The event is for adults. 211 Route 109, West Babylon. For more information, visit wbab.suffolk. lib.ny.us or call the library at (631) 669-5445.

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 station.

The 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.

Ghost Cookie Decorating

Students in grades 6-12 can get into the Halloween spirit by decorating ghost cookies at the Babylon Public Library, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 3-4:30 p.m. in the large community room. The library will provide the cookies and icing. Please note that this program may not be suitable for teens with food allergies. To register visit shorturl.at/ M9kuB. For more information, call (631) 669-1624. 24 S. Carll Ave., Babylon.

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?

Empire Defensive Driving Course

Improve your driving skills at the defensive driving program at West Babylon Public Library, Saturday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Attend this class and you may be eligible for an auto premium discount and reduction of violation points. A $35 non-refundable check or money order (no cash) payable to Empire Safety Council is due at sign-up.

Please be aware that space is limited, and payment is due within 48 hours of registration to keep your spot. One registration per person. For more information, visit wbab. suffolk.lib.ny.us or call the library at (631) 669-5445. 211 Route 109, W. Babylon.

Chat with the Mayor

Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams is available for a chat with residents at Babylon Public Library, Thursdays, Oct. 24, 6-8 p.m.; Nov. 14, 6-8 p.m.; also Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2-4 p.m. 24 South Carll Ave., Babylon. For more information, call (631) 669-1624.

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.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media.

It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

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. The drive 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.

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 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

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

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

NOTICE OF LEGAL POSTPONEMENT OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 30, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST is the Plaintiff and HENRY THOMAS JR., ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on October 29, 2024 at 1:30PM, premises known as 17 PINE ROAD, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100-099.0001.00-040.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 602719/2020. Robert A. Macedonio, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF

IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

24-533. 10/16

The Town of Babylon Rental Review Board will hold a Public Hearing at The Town of Babylon, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York (East Wing Board Room) on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 6:00pm NEW APPLICATION

1. Rohia Siddiqi 307-309 Cabota Ave. Copiague NY 11726

SCTM NO: 0100-199-1-43

2. 10 McKinley LLC 10 McKinley Ave. Lindenhurst NY 11757

SCTM NO: 0100-227-1-62

3. KEL Homes LLC 40 Scudder Ave. Copiague NY 11726

SCTM NO: 0100-196-1-7

4. Sinem Kara 28 Karen St. West Babylon NY 11704

SCTM NO: 0100-209-1-32

5. Claudia Enriquez 1 Midwood Rd. West Babylon NY 11704

SCTM NO: 0100210-276.001

6. Anthony D’Angelo 19 Brevoort Place Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 010020-1-10 RENEWALS

1. Schlomo Lavi 410 Dixon Ave. Copiague NY 11726

SCTM NO: 0100-177-2-85

2. Stephen Licata 20 Pine St. SCTM NO: 0100-83-1-128

3. Timothy Walsh 150 Archer Ave. Copiague NY 11726

SCTM NO: 0100-199-4-28

4. Wyandanch Homes & Property 25 Parkway Blvd. Wyandanch NY 11798

SCTM NO: 0100-80-1-4 5. Wyandanch Homes & Property

276 State Ave. Wyandanch NY 11798

SCTM NO: 0100-83-4-5 24-535. 10/16

Fundraiser for Massapequa firefighter John Delano Jr.

The Massapequa Fire Department is holding an event, Delano Strong fundraiser on Sat. Oct. 19 from 3 to 7 p.m., at the main firehouse.

On. Sat., May 11, 2024, John Delano Jr., the son of exChief John Delano, while sitting on a bench prior to the start of a softball game, as struck in the temple by an errant throw and suffered traumatic brain injury. Since then, except for occasionally opening and closing his eyes, and involuntarily hand and arm movement, John Jr. has been in a prolonged coma.

He has a house and a family and money from this fundraiser will go to his family to help cover his care and the regular bills of his household.

Donations are being accepted. There will be food, drinks, raffles, music and a 50/50 raffle. The cost is $20 per person.

For more information call the fire department at (516) 798-0040 or go online to massfd.org

Last Hope annual auction fundraiser, Nov. 10

Join Last Hope for its annual auction fundraiser on Sun., Nov. 10. The. Baskets and Bidding and Booze! Oh My! The event will be held at Mulcay’s in Wantagh. There will be live music, a buffet, ipen bar and more. You will be able to bid on art and décor, jewelry, sports memorabilia, housewares, attraction tickets, gift cards and more.

Tickets are $75 in advance and $80 at the door. Tickets are available at astHopeAnimalRescue.org. For more information call Melanie at (516) 319-2014.

Battle of the

Badges

Sunday, Oct. 27

It’s time for the Battle of the Badges, where the Amityville Fire Department and Amityville Police Department meet on the field for a friendly softball game.

The event is being held Sun., Oct. 27 beginning at 5 p.m., at the Amityville Beach Softball Field. There will be drinks, food, tee shirts and a 50/50 raffle and what promises to be a night of fun. All proceeds go to charity.

Do you have something good to shout about?

Let us help you share the good news about your wedding, anniversary, birth, graduation or any other happy event.

Send items to us, including photographs, at cjames@liherald.com Please include your name and phone number for verification.

Questions?? Call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329 1274811

Public Notices — Your right to know

Pursuant to Chapter 213, Article II of the Building Zone Ordinance of the Town of Babylon, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at TOWN BOARD ROOM (Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on THURSDAY, OCTBER 31, 2024

BEGINNING AT 6:00

P.M.

6:00 p.m.

1. Application #24193 of Robert Nalewajk and Monica Bermudez, 248 West 20th Street, Deer Park, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 30% to 36% (over by 454.4 sq. ft.). All in connection with the erection of an inground pool and paver patio. Property located on the west side of West 20th Street, 250’ north of Oakland Avenue, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-84-2-119

Zoning District: Residence C

6:05 p.m.

2. Application #24199 of Tatiana M. Viloria and Mark A. Ricketts, 1565 Herzel Boulevard, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 24.8’ (for portico); diminish west side yard setback from 12’ to 10.2’; diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 29.7’; increase total building area from 20% to 44.5% (over by 2,454.76 sq. ft.); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for paver patio); diminish distance to west side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for paver patio). All in connection with the erection of a second-floor addition and a two-story addition. Property located on the south side of Herzel Boulevard, 800’ east of Fifteenth Avenue, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-138-132.002

Zoning District: Residence B

6:10 p.m.

3. Application #24198 of Shannon Smith (applicant)/Maverick Center, LLC (prop. owner), 8 Salt Meadow Road, Babylon, NY. Permission to increase number of wall signs per elevation from one (1) to three (3) on the north wall. All in connection with proposed

wall signs. Property located on the south side of Sunrise Highway, 121.3’ east of Autumn Place, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-157-313.001

Zoning District: Industry Eb

Subject Premises: 520 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, NY 11704

6:15 p.m.

4. Application #24197 of Art of Form Architectural Services (applicant)/ JS Babylon Honda Realty, LLC (prop. owner), 159 Broadway (Rte. 110), Amityville, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to conduct a public garage as an auto repair shop and car wash. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for three (3) years; expired March 16, 2022). Property located on the south side of Evergreen Street, 144.33’ east of Great East Neck Road, West Babylon, NY.

CTM#0100-217-2-57 & 78.001

Zoning District: Industrial D

Subject Premises: 80-100 Evergreen Street, West Babylon, NY 11704

6:20 p.m.

5. Application #24195 of WMK, LLC D/B/A Mobility Works (tenant)/ Lambeth Realty Company (prop. owner), 4199 Kinross Lakes Parkway, Richfield, OH. Requesting renewal of a special exception permit for an automotive sales showroom for handicap accessible vehicles; diminish off-street parking from seventy-five (75) parking spaces required to thirtyone (31) parking spaces provided; allow outdoor storage of four (4) vehicles in side yard; a non-permitted location; allow outdoor storage without fencing enclosure. All in connection with a portion of an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year; expired April 20, 2024). Property located on the east side of East Jefryn Boulevard, 1,049.80’ south of Grand Boulevard, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-67-1-24.049

Zoning District: Industry Ga

Subject Premises: 80 East Jefryn Boulevard, Deer Park, NY 11729

6:25 p.m.

6. Application #24196 of WMK, LLC D/B/A

Mobility Works (tenant)/ Lambeth Realty Company (prop. owner), 4199 Kinross Lakes Parkway, Richfield, OH. Requesting renewal of a special exception permit to operate a public garage for customization and service of handicap accessible vehicles; diminish off-street parking from fifty-six (56) parking spaces required to thirtyfour (34) spaces provided; allow outdoor storage of four (4) vehicles in side yard; a non-permitted location; allow outdoor storage without fencing enclosure. All in connection with a portion of an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year; expired April 20, 2024). Property located on the east side of East Jefryn Boulevard, 1,743.45’ south of Grand Boulevard, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-67-1-24.050

Zoning District: Industry Ga

Subject Premises: 90 East Jefryn Boulevard, Deer Park, NY 11729

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 October 7, 2024 24-536. 10/16

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AND/ OR INFORMATIONAL HEARINGS BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON PLANNING BOARD

Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning Board will hold public and/or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, October 21, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon

thereafter as can be heard to consider the following application(s):

PUBLIC HEARING/SITE PLAN REVIEW/BAR/ RESTAURANT/LIFTING OF COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS

JOB# 24-38ADF; Tanger Outlets Center: SCTM# 0100-068-01-046.020: Zone – GA Industry: SEQRA- Type II Action: Applicant proposes interior alterations to an existing tenant space in Tanger Outlets for a change of use from retail to a 475 seat bar/restaurant and arcade/ place of amusement for “Main Event”, along with minor site improvements. Additionally, the applicant proposes amendment to IDA covenants and restrictions which can only be altered by approval of the Planning Board.: Property is located on the north side of Grand Boulevard, 1,660’ east of Commack Road, Deer Park, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Patrick Halpin, Chairperson of the Planning Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York PRINTING INSTRUCTIONS

Amityville Record: 10-16-24 24-534. 10/16

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

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

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable

Email Marketing Expert to join our team.

If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

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 open-

ings 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.

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $33,280 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

HomesHERALD

A Home For All Seasons

Babylon Village Office Space for Rent. Main Level Professional Office Suite.

Approx. 800' ft-900' sq ft. Private entrance, ample parking and storage. Asking...$2650+ part utilities. For information and details, please email: C21adamsrealestate@gmail.com

Step into a world where past elegance meets modern innovation. This remarkable 1930s Tudor has been thoughtfully transformed for the 21st century, seamlessly blending

An architect for a sunroom?

Q. I’m buying a sunroom for my breakfast room on the back of my split-level house, about 8 feet off the ground. I’m being told by the contractor that I need an architect and sealed plans. Since it’s basically a kit of parts that will go on my existing deck, why do I need this? It seems like a lot of extra expense the sunroom people didn’t tell me about. If I already have a permit for the deck, it should be allowed, right? I haven’t bought the sunroom yet. I’m just trying to be sure I know the whole story before I do this, probably by spring, when the weather is better for construction. Any advice would be helpful.

A. Do things once, the best way. A deck isn’t habitable, but a sunroom is, and a permit is required. Plans have to show structural support, energy and building code compliance. Rain, moisture and ice are your primary concerns.

Real Estate

WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670 Out Of Town/Real Estate

CATSKILLS: 3 BEDROOMS, 2 baths, 14 acres. 26x48 poured foundation, Needs Work. $169K. Owner. 607-434-8350

You need the whole story without the sales part. Just like any purchase, issues you might not expect are still important, like finding out what kind of oil to add to your snow blower before the engine seizes or that windows without factory tinting can allow ultra-violet sunlight rays to fade your carpet. As an architect for a largely popular sunroom manufacturer in the 1980s and ’90s, I experienced many issues with their construction.

Pre-engineered panel systems are designed by the company, hopefully by engineers, and should come with plans, from the manufacturer, that can be sealed and signed by their in-house engineer. If not, plans may need to be drawn from scratch by an architect or engineer that you hire so those plans can be integrated with your house. Integrated means that the company generally just sells you a product and doesn’t necessarily give any indication of how to support the unit or how to attach the unit system to your house so that it won’t leak or move.

This is the general failing of the system, since, as I experienced with most of the installations, the part I could detail was free of leaking or movement, but the units themselves leaked nearly every time. We could detail how the edges of the unit could be sealed and redundantly weather-stripped and flashed, but the frames around the glass and wall edges would unseal and leak. I even met with the corporate president/owner and identified the specific problems. Promises to correct leak issues were made but not kept, and eventually I gave up.

I looked at a two-year-old system while discussing other work for a home recently. The owner described the back-and-forth misery he and his family were experiencing with their sunroom and the company. Even 25 years after I gave up, the same company is still doing things the same way. You need a detail-oriented architect and installer, even if you think you don’t. The cost of doing things twice is much greater. Good luck.

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

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Join the necessary fight against spotted lanternflies

The Herald and other publications have detailed the negative impacts of the invasive spotted laternfly on Long Island, and while the population of these unwelcome insects continues to require intervention to prevent their unchecked spread across our region, there are steps that every Long Islander can take in their own backyard to protect against them.

FRAnK piccininni

At the Long Island Conservancy, we are eager to share some tips that will make a positive impact — and in some cases, multiple positive outcomes by eradicating not only this invasive insect, but also invasive plants that serve as the lanternfly’s primary food source.

First off, much like the MTA’s famous slogan, if you see something, squish something! This fall, keep your eyes peeled for egg masses, and make sure to destroy them through the spring.

Removing the tree of heaven, an invasive non-native plant, is a top priority when it comes to proactive ways to erad-

icate the lanternfly. The tree of heaven is a fast-growing, invasive species across North America that you may not recognize by sight, but you certainly can by scent — it’s also known as the stinking sumac, stink tree, stink weed, and a variety of other names including “stink.”

The plant is spreading with the same vigor as the lanternfly, and removing it eliminates the insect’s favorite food. Mechanical removal is possible: Girdle it, rip it out and remove it; whatever you can do to set them back. Make sure to follow up to ensure it doesn’t regrow.

a species displaced halfway across the world.

S quash them, plant milkweed, and yank out all the tree of heaven you can find.

Many land managers and conservation professionals have warned against mechanical removal, encouraging the use of herbicides instead. In our experience, this isn’t necessary; while the removed/damaged trees will sucker up, if you pull the suckers biweekly for a growing season, the roots will give up the ghost and the problem can be eliminated.

The tree of heaven is a significant problem in our region, not just because of the smell, but because it chokes out beneficial native plants. In the case of the lanternfly, the plant is essentially the closest thing to “home cooking” for

If getting rid of that awful smell isn’t enough incentive, early scientific research suggests that lanternflies that feed on the tree of heaven sequester toxins, called quassinoids, that make our native birds extremely less likely to eat them. So the lanternflies are essentially exempt from the food chain, another reason why so many have managed to thrive in our competitive environment. This is, by the way, why they have those bright red warning colors!

And the tree of heaven isn’t the only invasive species of plant that supports the lanternfly population. Porcelainberry and other species that originated in Asia are key sources of food. Every pernicious invasive species removed means more available space for native, healthy species to grow and thrive on Long Island.

When it comes to native species, there are a few to consider planting, like milkweed. I’ve seen dead lanternflies on milkweed plants — it appears that the dopey insects feed on them and poison themselves. (If you need a bonus reason to plant milkweed, the influx of mon-

arch butterflies is lovely!)

While taking steps to remove invasive plants in your yard and replace them with native species is proactive, some people are well past that point — they’re dealing with infestations. In that case, you may be ready to set up a trap around a native host tree.

Observe where the lanternflies congregate most on your land and set your trap up there. While they tend to like walnut and sumac the best, they’ve been seen on maples, birches, sycamore and other trees. Building a trap is easy — you can find a step-by-step guide at https://extension.psu.edu/how-to-builda-spotted-lanternfly-circle-trap.

For saplings that aren’t big enough for a proper trap, just knock the bugs into a soapy dish. Some will hop away, but they’re quite easy to catch this way, and if you do this once a day, over time you’ll see fewer of them returning.

While combating the spotted lanternfly has been compared to trying to keep water off the beach because there are so many, by eradicating invasive species like the tree of heaven, we are helping to protect our environment now and for years to come.

Frank Piccininni is the president of Spadefoot Design and Construction and a co-founder of the Long Island Conservancy.

How to talk to young people about elections

Every four years, citizens of the United States have the privilege of voting in the presidential election. It is one of the most sacred and awesome responsibilities of being an American citizen. Reflecting on the ideals set forth in the Constitution, it is crucial that we engage our students in conversations about the election process to help them understand and appreciate the significance of voting. Although discussing politics in public schools can be uncomfortable for some, particularly in today’s polarized environment, remaining silent on these issues is actually detrimental. Educators have a responsibility to help develop young people into informed, active participants in the democratic process and, hopefully, the next generation of civic leaders.

As a former high school social stud-

ies teacher, I believe the election season is the perfect opportunity to make learning more relevant by bringing textbooks to life. There are so many invaluable skills students can learn during local and national election cycles. First, they should be taught about the election process. Many of our students come from other countries, including those that do not have participatory democracies. Teachers can use the upcoming elections as a time to provide a refresher on the branches of government and how elections function in the U.S.

We need to help students understand the significance of voting.

developed guidelines for identifying news media bias, which includes differentiating news from opinion, understanding that bias is a spectrum and recognizing our own biases. These are all extremely valuable skills that students will benefit from even after the election cycle has passed.

Additionally, we can teach students how to navigate the media landscape and identify bias in the media. With the widespread use of social media as primary news sources, it is often difficult for young people and adults alike to differentiate fact from fiction or evaluate the credibility of a news source.

The News Literacy Project, an organization devoted to ensuring that all students are skilled in news literacy,

Another critical skill students can develop when learning about elections is how to consider different perspectives. With the explosion of the internet and social media algorithms, it is very likely that young people who get their news from online media sources are never confronted with opinions or values that are different from their own. In order for students to successfully navigate life after high school and become leaders in the global workforce, however, they must be able to listen to the opinions of others, seek to understand a variety of perspectives and engage in civil discourse and debate. These skills are essential for navigating real-world challenges.

Finally, teaching about elections

offers an excellent opportunity to discuss with young people the importance of voting. As educators, we counter voter apathy by teaching students about the historical struggle for voting rights in this country, particularly for historically marginalized groups, such as women and African-Americans. These discussions may evoke strong emotions, but they are vital to helping students understand why voting matters and how our country has evolved.

We should remind students of the importance of taking part in local elections in addition to the national presidential elections. We should also explore ways for young people to practice exercising the right to vote in school, and provide opportunities for them to voice their opinions on local issues in the community.

This is a really exciting and pivotal time in our country, with history unfolding before our eyes. It is our duty to ensure that the next generation is not only witnessing these moments, but is engaged with and prepared to shape them.

Monique Darrisaw-Akil, Ed.D., is superintendent of the Uniondale Union Free School District.

HERALD

sHeraLd editoriaL

The Mets are a case study in grit

ports often provide the most visible examples of overcoming the odds. Take, for example, the New York Mets, who, in late May, suffered a crushing loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, leaving them 11 games under .500. Many fans and baseball insiders had all but written them off, but the Mets didn’t quit.

Instead the ball club made strategic lineup changes and, most important, held firm in their belief that they were still a great team. The result? A remarkable turnaround that put them 30 games over .500 and propelled them into this week’s National League Championship series.

Pitcher Jim Abbott is another powerful example of overcoming adversity. Born without a right hand, Abbott faced enormous challenges from an early age, but refused to let his physical difference define or limit him. He eventually reached the major leagues, and not only pitched at the highest level, but tossed a no-hitter for the Yankees in 1993.

This lesson isn’t just for athletes. Struggling students can reassess their study habits, ask for extra help, and find the support they need. A professional facing new challenges at work can seek out training, lean on colleagues for advice, and even turn frustration into motivation. Teachers, mentors and coaches thrive on helping others succeed, so seeking help isn’t a weakness — it’s a smart move.

Letters

Climate change should be on voters’ minds

To the Editor:

As the election draws closer, we cannot ignore the growing impact of climate change on our communities. Hurricane Helene and now Hurricane Milton, along with dozens of wildfires this past summer, are all clear warning signs of a very real climate crisis.

This issue deserves more attention than it has received so far this election cycle. During the presidential debate, only one brief question was asked about climate at the very end.

The fact is, the climate crisis impacts us all, no matter where we live or how much money we make. Americans are being told to flee their homes and risk losing everything. Meanwhile, Big Oil continues to put profits over people by prioritizing fossil fuels that continue to destroy our environment.

We cannot afford to lose any more time in the fight against the climate crisis. We need leaders — at the federal, state and local level — who believe in the science of climate

Overcoming adversity isn’t just about persistence, but is about a mindset of constant learning and growth. Whether you’re falling behind in school, at work or on a sports team, the temptation to surrender can be overwhelming. But those who thrive amid adversity don’t see challenges as walls; they see them as steppingstones to progress.

If you’re a student struggling to grasp difficult concepts, feeling like you’re always two steps behind, it’s easy to lose hope. At work, new technologies and methodologies might feel like waves crashing over you, leaving you disoriented. And for an athlete, the weight of defeat can make the rest of the season feel like an uphill climb that’s no longer worth making.

So how does a person, or a team, regroup and find success after falling behind?

While determination is key, succeeding isn’t just about plowing through. It’s about strategic adaptation. It’s about identifying what’s important, what’s holding you back, and making meaningful changes — sometimes inspired by others, and sometimes by digging deep into yourself.

The first step often is simply asking for help. And that’s nothing to be ashamed of. We’ve all been there!

Adversity isn’t a dead end. It’s a detour that offers new pathways to growth and success, but only if we’re willing to stay the course, make adjustments, and push beyond the initial

impulse to give up. And real-life stories of overcoming adversity can be powerful sources of inspiration, because they demonstrate that success is often born from struggle, resilience and perseverance.

J.K. Rowling’s journey to becoming the world-famous author of the Harry Potter series is a classic example. Before Harry Potter became a household name, Rowling was a struggling single mother living on welfare. She wrote the first Harry Potter book in coffee shops, often battling self-doubt and rejection. No fewer than 12 publishers rejected the manuscript before Bloomsbury finally took a chance on it.

Thomas Edison, one of history’s greatest inventors, failed over a thousand times before making the first light bulb work. When asked about his repeated failures, Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” His relentless drive and ability to see failure as a learning opportunity helped him change the world.

Real-life stories such as these are just a sample of what people can achieve, while illustrating that the journey to success is rarely smooth. At press time, the Mets were down 1-0 to the Dodgers in the NLCS — down, but far from out. The team has shown its fans what it means to push through, learn, adapt, and remain focused on the next game all season long. Here’s hoping that valuable lesson continues.

opinions

The last thing Suffolk needs is a sales tax increase

aproposition on the ballot next month proposes to increase the Suffolk County sales tax to fund sewers, on the inaccurate theory that sewer construction will provide cleaner drinking water. over-sewering, however, can do more harm than good, and, in any event, the county has huge amounts of cash left over from federal Covid aid, thereby obviating the need for a sales tax increase.

While sewers may be needed in some areas with high water tables, or where higherdensity workforce housing or industrial development is needed, extensive sewer development to mirror that in nassau County may be wasteful and counterproductive.

If building sewers led to cleaner drinking water, as some proponents claim, nassau County, which is 90 percent sewered, would have cleaner water than Suffolk (only 27 percent of which is sewered), but that isn’t the case. In fact, nassau completed a study in 2022 looking for ways to tap into new york City’s reservoir for a cleaner, more plentiful water supply.

Moreover, sewers haven’t improved our shellfishing harvest or prevented algae blooms. If they did, shellfish harvesting would be robust in nassau County and absent in Suffolk. But there is little shellfishing going on in nassau, with the exception of oyster Bay, which, ironically, is the one area of nassau not sewered. the drop-off of shellfishing in our bays corresponds to the installation of sewers in nassau and western Suffolk in the 1970s.

too much sewering leads to a depletion of the water table, because sewers require a tremendous amount of groundwater to clean waste. that water is flushed out into the ocean and not replenished in our groundwater, as is the case with septic systems. that in turn leaves a gap in our subsurface water, which can result in saltwater intrusion, as well as nitrate contaminants on the surface being sucked down into our aquifer. nor do street-based sewers, which are not hooked up to outflow pipes, resolve the issue of nitrogen flowing into our streams and tributaries via road runoff. the county should not be raising the sales tax any further for this purpose when hundreds of millions of dollars are available in county reserves — Covid

t he 1986 increase was supposed to preserve our groundwater forever.

aid that came from the federal government, which can be used for environmental purposes. of equal concern is that the sales tax increase is tied to a provision that would further extend the current quarter-penny sales tax for another 30 years — despite the fact that this program doesn’t expire for six more years. the sales tax funds property tax relief, stabilizes sewer rates, and preserves open space and pays for other environmental projects. Since very little open space remains to be purchased, the formula should be changed so that some of those tens of millions of dollars can fund sewer construction and cesspool remediation instead of raising the sales tax even further.

Sewers are indeed needed in some areas, but oversewering elsewhere will be far more expensive and less protective than other available options. officials need to do more cost-benefit analysis of paying $20,000 to $30,000 for an upgraded cesspool compared with bringing current systems up to code, and to determine the impact each alternative will have on our environment. Planners should lay out the cost of the construction of tertiary treatment plants and determine if they are better than expanding hookups to existing sewer

Letters

change and are willing or can be convinced to take bold action before it’s too late. So I urge everyone: When you cast your ballot next month, think of our planet and the people that call it home.

MartIn MelkonIan Uniondale

The MTA’s capital plan doesn’t have a chance

to the editor:

l ong Island r ail r oad riders should be concerned that the Metropolitan t ransportation authority’s $68 billion, five-year, 2025-2029 Capital Plan isn’t worth the paper it’s written on. Gov. k athy Hochul claims she can find additional state and federal funding to make up for the missing $15 billion in congestion pricing revenue from the current $51 billion 2020-2024 capital plan. She promises the same for making up the $33 billion shortfall in the proposed plan. t his leaves the M ta with a record $48 billion shortfall in funding! the plan will be dead on arrival.

allocation of funding for advancing toward a state of good repair in all capital asset categories should be a higher priority than any system expansion projects. Funding for the $7.7 billion Second avenue Subway Phase 2 and the $5.5 billion Brooklyn/Queens Interboro express light r ail Connector would be better spent on repair projects. Metro n orth r ailroad’s $3.1 billion Bronx e ast Penn Station a ccess project should be put on hold. Forget about the $7.5 billion Second avenue Subway Phase 3, the 125th Street Crosstown extension, as well.

Don’t be surprised in 2025 when both the governor and the l egislature reduce the proposed $68 billion plan by billions. I predict it will end up somewhere in the $50s billion range, to deal with more realistic future funding availability.

larry Penner Great Neck

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.

systems or constructing new sewers that don’t help recharge the aquifer.

let’s get all those numbers together, do a comparison and then decide how much sewering we want, how many new tertiary plants we prefer and how many super-sized cesspools we think are worth it. let’s get that info in hand before we ask for billions of dollars more from our residents.

remember that in 1986, it was touted that by increasing the sales tax by a quarter of a penny, we would preserve our groundwater forever. Well, $3 billion has been spent on that venture since then, and now we’re being told, “oops, we have to do it all over again.”

Don’t be bullied into approving this tax increase by those with vested interests scaring you into believing you’ll be drinking polluted water unless you give them billions of dollars to save you. of Suffolk’s 600 wells, only two have ever been threatened.

We can be proactive without having our already outlandish taxes being raised once again.

Steve Levy is president of Common Sense Strategies, a political consulting firm. He served as Suffolk County executive, as an assemblyman, and as host of “The Steve Levy Radio Show.” He is the author of “Solutions to America’s Problems” and “Bias in the Media.” www.SteveLevy.info, Twitter @SteveLevyNY, steve@commonsensestrategies.com.

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.

Framework by Harriet Katz

On a trip to Ohio, visiting the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

steVe LeVY