Babylon Herald 01_23_2025

BEaCon

Also serving Babylon, Bay Shore, Copiague, Deer Park, Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, West Babylon, West Islip and Wyandanch

CRIME WATCH HERALD BaBylon

Photo Courtesy/Steve Gravano

Salvation Army volunteer Larry Gardner, and his wife Christine, center, with Town Councilman DuWayne Gregory, NYS Assemblyman Kwani O’Farrow, Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, Councilman Terry McSweeney, Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Town Receiver of Taxes Jennifer Montiglio and Councilmen Anthony Manetta and Tony Martinez.

NB resident honored for four decades of ringing the Salvation Army bell

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD

cbabirad@liherald.com

North Babylon resident Larry Gardner was recently honored by the Town of Babylon for his 40 years of service as a Salvation Army bell ringer at the West Babylon Stop and Shop.

Gardner, now a “Bell Captain,” has raised more than $200,000 over the years for the organization, which provides vital assistance to individuals and families facing hardships, including food insecurity and homelessness. This year alone, Gardner helped raise $10,000 during four Saturdays of bell ringing. A significant portion of the total came from EXIT Corp. International’s “Spirit of Giving” program, which donated $2,500 on top of Gardner’s efforts. The program has been supporting Gardner’s fundraising for the past decade. His commitment to the cause began after he became sober following years of battling

alcoholism. What began as a suggestion from his 12-step recovery program sponsor evolved into what he now calls “historical.”

His work culminated in a special recognition by the Town of Babylon, which declared Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, “Larry Gardner Day” in honor of his service. Gardner, who had once been homeless and at “rock bottom” in the very town that honored him, described the recognition as “extremely spectacular.”

“The most meaningful part of the ceremony was all the people who came from so many different parts of my life,” Gardner said. “It was very neat.”

Gardner had initially planned to retire from bell ringing after his final shift this year. However, a moment on that last day changed his mind. A woman approached him and told him that his kindness had changed her life. She explained how, one day, she had

Village of Babylon raises gazebo fee, plans seasonal events

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

The Village of Babylon is gearing up for the warmer months, with preparations underway for a variety of events and activities in the coming months.

At the Village Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 14, Trustee Frank Seibert announced that the new Lewis Circle playground has been installed. “It looks great, and I know a lot of kids are looking forward to it,” Seibert said.

He also voiced support for an increase in the fee to use the village gazebo, which has grown increasingly popular for weddings and other special events.

“I think it’s reasonable to have a slight increase as we have a lot of activity there, and it’s important to keep up the maintenance,” he said. The gazebo fee was last updated in 2019, when it was set at $175. It has now been raised to $225, but there will be no charge for those wishing to take photos at Argyle Park.

Seibert also mentioned that the village is preparing the details and registration for the Summer Recreation Program.

Newly appointed trustee Sean Goodwin presented his items at the meeting for the first time. He noted that the Conklin House would be reopening for tours every third Thursday of the month starting in February, and

had scheduled an afternoon tea for Sunday, May 4. with sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Goodwin also commended the success of the Christmas at the Conklin House event this past December. “It was a great Christmas at the Conklin House, and I want to thank the Babylon High School Band for playing outside in the cold for so many hours. They were fantastic,” he said.

In Other Business:

The board approved an increase for non-resident crabbing and dock parking permits from $50 each $75 each.

The board approved a request from the Babylon Lions Club to display No Parking signs on three meters in front of Café Il Villagio, 35 Deer Park Ave., during their take-out pasta dinner fundraiser on Sunday, Feb. 23, from 1 to 6 p.m. The club will also post temporary signs at various merchants and signs at village entrances from Feb. 8 to 23 to promote the fundraiser.

The board gave permission to hold the 2025 Pickleball Tournament at the Park Avenue tennis courts on Saturday, June 7, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, June 8, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., with rain dates scheduled for June 21 and 22.

The Babylon Village Arts Council was granted permission to use Argyle Park, specifically

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

NB resident recognized for 40 years of service to the Salvation Army

been crying after leaving the store, struggling with a difficult time. Gardner had listened to her, offered a hug, and reassured her that “God has her back.” The woman said that moment had turned her life around.

“She told me that moment changed her life,” Gardner said. “And it was like God told me, ‘You’re not done yet.’”

For Gardner, the outpouring of support and gratitude over the years has been overwhelming. He reflected on how many people now associate ringing the bell with the start of their holiday season, underscoring the deep impact of his decades of service.

“I love the longevity of this history, the fact that we’ve been doing this for so many years,” he said.

Gardner now plans to continue his work and is considering ringing the bell at multiple stores next year. “I really do have fun; we make it a party,” he said, describing himself as the “George Bailey of North Babylon.” He added that his life,

now that he’s sober, is truly a “wonderful life.”

“I could have never imagined being recognized by the Town of Babylon,” Gardner said. “I am so incredibly blown away.”

Village of Babylon hikes gazebo fee, plans new seasonal events

CONTINUED FROM COVER

the area in front of the playground, for their annual Art by the Falls outdoor art exhibit on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The rain date will be Sunday, May 18, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The

board also authorized the display of three signs at the village entrances from May 1 to May 18 to promote the event.

The board approved M. Roman’s request to hold a Pride Parade on Sunday, June 1.

The board gave permission to Lodestar Children’s Services Inc. to host a “Milestones for Mental Health” wellness walk on Saturday, May 3, with a rain date of Sunday, May 4.

The Babylon Methodist Church was authorized to display temporary signs at various village businesses through Saturday, Feb. 1, to promote their Ecumenical Hymn Sing event.

Upcoming Public Hearing

A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 28 to consider an application by Frankie Bragaglie and Babylon Crew LLC. for a Special Use Permit to open and operate a lounge/restaurant and a pickleball court at 96 East Main Street. The hearing will also address a proposed local law prohibiting retail stores that sell firearms within the territorial boundaries of the village. It will also addresss a proposed local law on the tax cap, which would authorize a property tax levy increase above the limit established nu law.

The hearing will start at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 153 W. Main St., Babylon.

For more information about the village and upcoming meetings, visit villageofbabylonny.gov or call 631-669-1500.

Salvation Army volunteer Larry Gardner, left, is given a proclamation from Supervisor Rich Schaffer on behalf of the Town to recognize his work for 40 years, as Town Board members and the public applaud his dedication.

‘End of the line’ for Babylon’s cherished model train show

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

The 13-year tradition of the annual Model Train Show at the Old Town Hall in Babylon Village ended this year, with the final event dedicated to Steve Quigley, who died in October 2024. Quigley, a passionate train enthusiast and local historian, was the mastermind behind the popular model train display.

Quigley, a member of the Long Island Sunrise Trail-National Railway Historical Society and its former president, created and expanded the show annually, which featured interactive displays showcasing community landmarks and local history. The exhibit allowed visitors of all ages to push buttons that sent miniature trains chugging through a replica of the Town of Babylon.

Pat Podesta, a friend of Quigley’s, described him as a “true gentleman and devoted family man” in a memorial post. Thomas Nuzzo, another friend, shared memories of their shared joy for trains, saying he would never forget their time together.

Leslie Mesnick, a colleague, called Quigley an effective and enthusiastic leader. “His partnership was invaluable, and he truly made a difference in the world of historical railroad preservation and education,” Mesnick said.

The show, sponsored by the Babylon Town Historical Society and the Town of Babylon Office of Historic Services, featured both modern and historical sites, including the Fire Island Lighthouse, the now-closed Blockbuster Video, Bethel A.M.E. Church, the Alhambra Opera House, and the Old Town Hall.

Judy Skillen, president of the Village of Babylon Historical Society, said the show was unique for its depiction of the entire Township of Babylon. She described Quigley as a kind man who had a talent for teaching others about the Long Island Railroad.

Steve Quigley

Mary Cascone, Town of Babylon historian, and her husband Jason, who served as the

CRIME WATCH

WOMEN CHARGED AFTER MASSAGE PARLOR RAIDS

Suffolk Police, assisted by other law enforcement agencies and the Town of Babylon shuttered two local massage parlors in the town and arrested several women, charging them with prostitution.

On Thurs., Jan. 9, following investigations using undercover officers, the Suffolk County and Amityville police departments reported the arrest of two women who were charged with prostitution and the unauthorized practice of a profession. In response to community complaints, the police conducted undercover investigations at the Eastern Foot Spa, 143 Merrick Rd., Amityville. Following that, and assisted by the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal and Building Department, the police arrested Liern Hua Yu, 38, of Flushing and Yan-Hua Lin, 44, also of Flushing, charging them with Prostitution and the Unauthorized practice of a Profession.

Then, on Jan. 16, Suffolk County Police today arrested two women for prostitution at a massage parlor raid in at 80G East Montauk Highway, and arrested Shang Fengling and Yan-Hua Lin. Fengling, 53, of Flushing. Both women were charged with Unauthorized Practice of a Profession, a Class E felony, and Prostitution, a misdemeanor.

All four women were issued Desk Appearance Tickets and are scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on a later date.

MAN SOUGHT FOR FORCIBLE TOUCHING

Deer Park/North Babylon: Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police First Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a man wanted for forcible touching incidents in Deer Park and North Babylon last year. Police said a man entered stores in

Deer Park and North Babylon and forcibly touched a male employee on at least two occasions between October and December.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

AUTOS STOLEN

• West Babylon: A Honda CRV was stolen from Marine Lane on Jan. 5 and reported to police at 10:23 a.m.

• Amityville: A 2012 Dodge was stolen from the parking lot of Greybarn on Jan. 4 at approximately 7 p.m.

• Amityville: On Jan. 4 at 6:20 a.m., a 1993

Continued on Page 9

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

display’s engineer, have been integral to the show’s success.

“Steve’s passing motivated us to do this one last year,” Mary Cascone said. “It’s special to see people recognize the significance of the display and remember things they had forgotten or never knew about.”

Cascone’s father, Ken

Schnepp, also attended the show, occasionally blowing a train whistle to enhance the experience. “It’s a family thing. We all still have that kid inside us,” he said, recalling the memory of receiving his first train set at age 2, purchased with his mother’s entire paycheck.

For 8-year-old Gabriella Biondo, a student at Tooker Avenue Elementary in West Babylon, the display brought familiar sights to life. “It looks like where we usually drive around, and I like being able to push the buttons. It’s very interactive,” she said.

Ashley Rasiak, who attended with her husband and three children, said the show had become a cherished holiday tradition. “I’ve come since I was little. I think it’s beautiful, and the kids love interacting with the display,” she said, adding that she appreciated Quigley’s dedication over the years.

Ashley and Brian Rasiak with their children Briley, Christopher and Emily

Gabriella Biondo

Ken Schnepp

Surveillance photo of suspect being sought by police in Forced Toughing incident.

OBITUARY

Deborah M. Lifton, music teacher, singer and ‘brilliant flame,’dies at 48

Deborah M. Lifton, a music teacher and accomplished soprano, died January 8 at the age of 48 after a courageous 18-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Lifton, of West Hartford, Connecticut, and formerly of Massapequa, was remembered as a “brilliant flame” by those who knew her.

“In her 48 years, Debbie left the enduring imprint of her talent and wisdom on the souls of all who knew her,” said her husband Daniel. “The warmth, generosity, and positive energy that she radiated in every interaction drew people to her like moths to a brilliant flame.”

Lifton’s musical career spanned opera, art song, and music education. A former classical soprano, she was not only a professor of voice but also a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. She inspired students around the world, believing in “teaching the whole person” and encouraging self-discovery through music.

Mrs. Lifton was the daughter of Arthur and Elaine (Pespas) Lifton. She was raised in Massapequa Park and graduated from Massapequa High School, where she starred in many musical theater productions. Her talent led her to competitive summer programs at the Eastman School of Music and the Boston University Tanglewood Institute.

Lifton earned a degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan, where she performed in major opera pro-

ductions and made lifelong friends. She later completed her Master of Music at the Manhattan School of Music in 2000 and went on to a successful 25-year teaching career. She taught at New York University, Ithaca College, Western Connecticut State University, and the Hartt School at the University of Hartford, where she also served as Vocal Division Director.

An exceptional vocal technician, Lifton was known for her unique approach to teaching. She believed that singing was not just about technique but also about understanding and communicating deep emotional truths. Her career took her to France, Hungary, China, Italy, and across the United States.

Lifton’s love of art song, which she considered the ultimate fusion of poetry and music, was exemplified by her 2007 win in the prestigious Joy in Singing competition and a sold-out recital at Merkin Hall in New York City.

She met her husband, Daniel Gurvich, in 2001 while they were singing together at the Ash Lawn Highland Festival in Virginia. The couple traveled extensively, visiting tropical beaches, Europe, and the national parks of the American Southwest.

Lifton is survived by her husband, Daniel Gurvich, of West Hartford; their daughter, Maria Gurvich; her parents, Arthur and Elaine Lifton, of Bloomfield, Connecticut; her brother, Jason Lifton, and his wife,

Local Worship Schedules and Services.

THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF BABYLON

Corner of Deer Park Avenue and James Street in the Village of Babylon, 631-661-5151

Website: babylonumc.org

Pastor: The Rev. Melissa Boyer

SUNDAY SERVICES

Catherine Ho, of Brooklyn; and nephews Harrison and Niko Lifton, of Brooklyn. She is also survived by her in-laws, Mark and Nadia Gurvich of Cary, North Carolina; sister-in-law Rachel Gurvich and her husband, Ken Chu, of Cary; and niece and nephew Hannah and Nathan Chu, of Cary. Additionally, Lifton leaves behind a network of lifelong friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity.

A memorial service to celebrate her life was held January 9 at the Carmon Funeral Home & Family Center in Avon, Connecticut, followed by burial at Beth El Cemetery. Shiva services were held January 10 and 11 at her home in West Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the Deborah Lifton Art Song Fund at bit.ly/deborah-lifton-fund.

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

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

WI Class of ‘75 holding reunion

The West Islip High School Class of 1975 is holding a class reunion July 19, 2025 at Captain Bill’s restaurant in Bay Shore.

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

Wing-eating challenge Feb. 2 at Moose Lodge

A Wing-Eating Challenge for charity will take place Sun., Feb. 2 at the Huntington Moose Lodge. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the Wing-Off will begin at 2:30 p.m.

There must be 2 Wing-eaters per team and the cost is $35. There is a minimum of 4 pledgers per wing-eater and a minimum of $25 donation per pledge. All pledges must be in before the event.

Proceeds will benefit Camp Good Mourning, a Long Island-based nonprofit that provides free bereavement camp pro-

grams for children coping with the death of a parent and/or sibling.

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

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

The Huntington Moose Lodge is located at 631 Pulaski Rd., Greenlawn.

For more information, call (631) 772-9115.

Congregation Beth Sholom

• Spiritual leader: Rabbi Abraham Axelrud, Ph.D.

• Shabbat services every weekend: Friday, 8:00 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m.

• Kosher catering for all types of functions

• Spiritual leader: Rabbi Abraham Axelrud, Ph.D.

• Shabbat services every weekend: Friday, 8:00 p.m. • Saturday, 9:30 a.m.

• Religious school - Pre Hebrew thru Bar/Bat Mitzvah

• Senior Time Thursdays – 12:30-4:30, all welcome

• Kosher catering for all types of functions

• Rabbi’s adult education classes

• Religious school - Pre Hebrew thru Bar/Bat Mitzvah

• Active sisterhood and men’s club

• Senior Time Thursdays – 12:30-4:30, all welcome

• Rabbi’s adult education classes

• Interfaith couples welcome

• Active sisterhood and men’s club

• New members welcome

• Interfaith couples welcome

441 Deer Park Ave., Babylon PO Box 64 631-587-5650

441 Deer Park Ave., Babylon PO Box 64 • 631-587-5650 congregationbethshalom.com

A friendly Conservative egalitarian congregation offering: facebook.com/cbsbabylon

9:30am - Worship in the Church Online at Website - 9:30am

Home of the James Street Players and the UMC Nursery School

Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors

• New members welcome For Information on advertising here call

facebook.com/cbsbabylon

■ WEB SITE: www.babylonbeacon.com / www.liherald.com/Babylon ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: cjames@liherald.com

Deborah M. Lifton

LONG LIVE

Work ethic fuels

Amityville’s resurgence

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Amityville’s girls’ basketball team is in the midst of a transformative season, thanks to a shift in culture and a renewed focus on hard work, chemistry, and dedication.

Head coach Tom Maloney, who joined the program three years ago, has helped instill a new level of discipline and commitment. “Our team has embraced an offseason program,” said Maloney. “Improving both their skills and team chemistry was very important because it was previously a missing element.”

The team started the 2024-25 season strong and is in a position to make the playoffs, sitting with a 5-9 overall record and 3-5 in league play. The Warriors find themselves on a two-game winning streak thanks to victories over Eastport South Manor on Jan. 10 and Wyandanch on Jan. 14.

A key component of the resurgence is the strong group of athletes, including a talented crop of upperclassmen and promising underclassmen. The junior class, including Delainey Katz, has been a standout. “Katz, who is graduating early, has been a defensive leader since her freshman year,” said Maloney. “She continues to be a crucial part of the team’s backbone, providing leadership both on and off the court.”

Senior Alana Henry, a three-sport varsity athlete and captain for the past three years, averaged a double-double last season and recorded a career-high 32 points in a game. “She is the heart of the team, leading by example with her work ethic and commitment,” Maloney said.

Another captain Natalia Baptiste, a sophomore and transfer from Queens, has been the starting point guard since eighth grade. “Baptist’s dedication to the weight room and offseason workouts has made her a pivotal figure in the team’s success,” Maloney said.

Freshman Aaliyah Jones, who won league Rookie of the Year last season, has also been a standout. As the team’s primary defender, Jones is tasked with guarding the best player on the opposing team and is among the top three-point shooters. Anayah Hampton, a three-year starter, provides toughness and a physi-

HERALD SPORTS West Babylon clings to playoff hopes

Media Origin Inc.i/Herald

Only a sophomore, Natalia Baptiste is one of the Warriors’ captains and a third-year starting point guard.

cal presence in the paint as the team’s center, while Jaellel Aikan, a key contributor off the bench, injects energy and grit into the lineup.

Maloney also lauded Amityville’s depth. Andrea Santos, a sophomore forward, Mariah Williams, another sophomore who is versatile to play multiple positions, and sophomore guard Jada Chatman all make impacts to the team despite not getting much playing time in games. “They make their teammates so much better,” said Maloney. “They all have bright futures and are on track to get significant minutes in the future.”

Along with assistant coaches Mike Abbondondolo and Olivia Thomas, Maloney has gotten his team to buy into the culture. “With a mix of experienced players like Henry and Baptist, and emerging stars like Jones and Aikan, I think it’s safe to say this program is on the rise,” Maloney said. “The hard work and dedication these girls put in are paying off.”

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

West Babylon’s boys’ basketball team faced a tough challenge against Comsewogue, ultimately falling 46-32 in a hardfought contest at home on Jan. 15.

Despite a determined effort, the Eagles struggled to find offensive rhythm, as the Warriors’ defense stifled their scoring opportunities throughout the game and held West Babylon to its lowest point total of this season so far.

West Babylon, led by head coach Tim Lynch, was unable to overcome Comsewogue’s strong defensive pressure and efficient scoring. The game started off with a promising pace, but the Eagles’ offense could not generate enough consistent production. West Babylon’s shooting woes were evident, especially as Comsewogue maintained a steady lead throughout the game, never letting the Eagles close the gap significantly.

“It’s tough to score when you are not able to knock down shots,” Lynch said after the game. “That was probably the worst we shot all season and it certainly came back to hurt us in the end.”

Guard Danny Rose was the standout player for West Babylon, finishing as its leading scorer with 10 points. Rose’s scoring helped keep his team within striking distance at times, but it wasn’t enough to mount a serious comeback.

Guard Arghyl Polanco also contributed to the scoring effort, adding 8 points. His work on the offensive end was important in trying to spark a potential rally, but Comsewogue’s defense proved difficult to break through.

Guard Noah Rosa and forward Jalen Campbell both chipped in with 4 points each. Guards Sean Flaack and Frank Gervasio rounded out the scoring for the Eagles, contributing 3 points each. Unfortunately for West Babylon, despite its efforts, it was unable to consistently execute on offense or capitalize on scoring chances.

Comsewogue, meanwhile, played with a well-balanced attack, combining solid shooting with stifling defense to maintain their lead throughout the game. West Babylon struggled to get

West Babylon’s Arghyl Polanco, left, drove to the rim during the Eagles’ 46-32 defeat to Comsewogue Jan. 15.

into an offensive flow, particularly in the second half when Comsewogue’s defense ramped up.

The Eagles are now 4-8 overall but are continuing to battle and believe that the season is far from over with still seven games to go.

Lynch believes the loss to Comsewogue will serve as a learning experience. “I still think that we are a playoff team,” Lynch said. “We just have to find a way to put this performance behind us and move on. We have been competitive all season long so if we can just clean up a couple of things, we will have a chance to win each time we step on the floor.”

West Babylon will need to focus on improving its offensive execution. It has not reached the 60-point mark in five straight dating back to its last win, 60-51 over Center Moriches Dec. 27 that saw Campbell lead the way with 18 points, followed by Rose ith 15 and Rosa, Gervasio and Modesto Tapia with 9 apiece.

Erik Lee/Herald

LIRR record on-time rate isn’t whole story

By JUAN LASSO jlasso@liherald.com

With New York City’s new congestion pricing system now in place, Gov. Kathy Hochul rode the rails to Syosset earlier this year, urging city-bound Long Island commuters to leave their cars at home and embrace “world-class” public transit.

On Long Island, the tolling program is expected to increase commuters’ reliance on the Long Island Rail Road. Weekday ridership climbed from about 77 percent of pre-pandemic levels in 2023 to roughly 80 percent last year.

Transit officials, meanwhile, are highlighting the improved service of the railway system, emphasizing a propublic transit message to court suburban commuters looking to avoid the $9 toll to enter Manhattan below 60th Street. LIRR President Rob Free boasted that a higher percentage of trains operated on time last year than ever before.

“Our 95.6 percent on-time performance in 2024 is our highest non-Covid year in the history that we’ve been tracking on-time performance,” Free said.

Three years of growth and growing pains

An analysis of LIRR data over the past three years, however, combined with riders’ firsthand accounts, paints a fuller — and undeniably more complicated — picture.

The number of late trains nearly doubled from 2022 to 2023, from 8,691 to 17,064. The surge, Free contends, resulted from the increase in post-pandemic service over the last two years amid landmarks like the opening of Grand Central Madison terminal in 2023.

“We operated over 77,000 more trains in 2023 than in 2022,” Free said. “We’ve operated a little over 316,000 trains in 2024, compared to 302,000 trains in 2023. That’s a huge lift.”

The new service into Midtown Manhattan brought with it a complete overhaul of the system’s train schedules. Some service lines and connections were cut, while others added more frequent service.

By the end of November 2024, the number of late trains for the year dropped to 11,480, as disruptions eased — although the number of delays remained higher than in 2022.

LIRR’s own operations are main culprit for delays

Despite fears of commuter frustrations and confusion with the opening of the new terminal, the main cause of train delays in 2023 and 2024 wasn’t passenger-related interruptions. Instead, it was train operations — issues like scheduling conflicts, slow boarding and late departures. These were problems largely within the transit agency’s control that ate into the time passengers needed to board and disembark.

Other problems, like delays caused by train door malfunctions in an aging fleet, were up 79 percent in the first half of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023. And the much-needed upkeep of the LIRR’s ailing infrastructure, from

According to state data, while the LIRR achieved a record 95.6 percent on-time performance in 2024, the number of delays remain higher than in 2022 due to operational issues, infrastructure maintenance, and the impact of increased service volume.

Riders report overall satisfaction with their service but, complained about missed connections, and weren’t happy about the possibility of another fare increase.

signal repairs to track maintenance, has also been a major contributor to train delays over the past two years.

For his part, Free said that a “heightened focus on infrastructure maintenance” has helped, cutting switch failures by 31 percent in 2024, with further work focusing on improving safety and efficiency planned for this year — even if that means more delays.

Historic on-time rate, but average delays stay the same

LIRR trains are more punctual overall, but the average delay of a late train hasn’t gotten any shorter. Rather, wait times have held steady — between 11 and 12 minutes — over the past three years.

Given what he described as an “explosion” of service since the beginning of 2023, Free views this consistency in lateness as a sign of a functioning

system. In the nation’s largest transit system, with lines of service so “interconnected that one hiccup on one of our branches can have systemwide impacts on our total operation, the on-time performance we are achieving is nothing short of a miracle,” he said.

Still, critics point out that the data on train delays misses a key detail: the agency’s “on or close to schedule” standard allows for a grace period of up to six minutes. Delays under six minutes aren’t counted, masking a significant portion of minor setbacks that can still disrupt commuters’ plans.

Riders like Sasha Hanson, who commutes from Valley Stream to her interior design job at Stonehill Taylor in Manhattan, contends that these unofficial hold-ups can be just as vexing when they cause missed connections, particularly at Jamaica Station.

“It gets obnoxious, especially when transfer delays hit at the last minute— usually right as you’re getting off the train,” Hanson said. “It’s not like you can avoid it ahead of time on your commute.”

The “amount of trains that we operate through this terminal is a huge impediment to our operation,” admits Free. “We are looking to improve this situation by putting in higher speed switches, lengthening the platform, and installing a new signal system among other capacity improvements.”

Riders give LIRR high marks — but not for fares

Despite delays, last fall’s MTA survey found that 76 percent of nearly 22,000 commuters surveyed were satisfied overall with their service. Yet some commuters who speak well of the railway also balk at the idea of higher fares.

“I don’t think fares should increase, because it’s costing me a lot of money just to get to school,” said Raya Adiva, a Valley Stream resident and high school senior who depends on the LIRR to get to school in the city.

The specter of more expensive fares looms over commuters as the MTA Board approves a $19.9 billion budget for 2025, which includes plans for a potential 4 percent hike in fares and tolls.

“What’s important to keep in mind is that the price of a monthly ticket is still cheaper now than it was in 2019,” Free said. “The way we institute fares is predictable, so our customers know when it’s coming. We’ve done an incredible job of maintaining cost and giving people good value for their money.”

Data Wrapper Illustration by Juan Lasso/Herald

Tim Baker/Herald

Bigger Space, Bigger Impact: Last Hope Thrift

Shop Relocates to 310 New York Ave.

Bow Wow! Meow! The Last Hope Thrift Shop is moving to a bigger store. Our new address will be 310 New York Ave., Huntington 11743.

Last Hope Animal Rescue is fortunate that our donations continue to exceed the size of our present thrift shop. After more than three years at 274 New York Avenue, we have grown from filling a “Cocker Spaniel-size” space to needing a “Great Danesize” space so we can display all our incredible merchandise in a visible and safe way.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

Our new, beautiful shop has more than double our current square footage. We want our customers and volunteers to be able to tap dance while their thrift shop magic happens this way-

•With a wave of the magic wand, one person’s unwanted items sell and become someone else’s new possessions, where all profits turn into goods and services for Last Hope’s homeless pets. *

Thrifting at a non-profit is the ultimate form of recycling. Discarded merchandise stays out of landfills and generates support for the non-profit’s mission.

We plan to open this new location on or before February 1, 2025; while continuing to be open Tuesday through Saturday (10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 274 New York Avenue during January 2025. We have already acquired new fixtures and moved tons of goodies to our new location. The new shop is a work in progress!

New Name: Last Hope Animal Rescue

Continued from Page 3

Thrift & Treasures

The new shop is on the same side of the street, two blocks south, closer to Main Street, set back slightly, next to FETCH Dog Grooming, and between Sedoni Gallery and Sur Argentinian Steak House, “catty” corner across the street from the empty Book Revue. There is free parking in the Chase Bank lot and adjacent municipal lot across the street, slightly north of our shop.

Blowout Moving Sale:

This week everything (except handbags) at our current thrift shop at 274 New York Avenue is 50% off. Only Jewelry $15 or under is half price. Fabulous Savings!

Last Hope was “born” in Huntington in 1981, originally rescued death-due dogs from Huntington Town Shelter and had thrift shop/secret animal shelters in Huntington back then. We are thrilled Last Hope Animal Rescue will continue to shine in Huntington in 2025.

More News Soon:

•Our official Grand Opening (after Feb. 1) at 310 New York Ave., Huntington.

•Our valet, car side pick-up of your donations at 310 New York Avenue.

For now, please continue to bring your generous donations to Last Hope in Wantagh or to 274 New York Avenue and please spread the word about our move to a new location.

For more information or to volunteer at our chic thrift boutique, call Joanne Milkbone at 631-671-2588.

CRIME WATCH

and stole $700 from a wallet left in the car.

Honda was reported stolen from Rainbow Lane.

Burglary

• East Farmingdale: On Jan. 3, someone broke into a home on Central Drive, stole $18,000 in cash, and took $40,000 in customers’ checks from a safe.

Criminal Trespass

• West Islip: On Jan. 2 at 8:04 a.m., a resident on Skipper Drive reported being confronted in his home by an unknown man who approached him with his fists clenched. When the homeowner asked who the man was, the suspect fled the scene.

Petit Larceny

• Copiague: On Jan. 6, someone stole two cricket machines valued at $700 from the Target department store on Sunrise Highway.

• North Amityville: On Jan. 6 at 11:20 a.m., an unknown person entered the Dollar General store on Great Neck Road and stole $4 worth of feminine products, fleeing the scene without paying.

• Wyandanch: On Jan. 5 at 7:20 p.m., som one entered an unlocked vehicle parked in front of 1434 Straight Path

An unknown male walked into a check cashing business on Bay Shore Road Jan. 2, showed a note to a worker there directing him to give him $8,000. The worker refused to comply with the demand and the man left the business.

Arrests

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Katherin Espinal, 23 of 2 Windham Rd., Brentwood; Francis Buckheit, 64, of 25 Timber Point Rd., East Islip; Richard Henry, 41, of 91 S. 24th St., Wyandanch; Patricia Abril, 25, of 450 Windmill Ave., West Babylon; Carolos Orndorff, of 9 Oscar St., Bay Shore.

Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance: Mark Gusmano, 50, of 35 West Santa Barbara Rd., Lindenhurst; Daniel Soto, 37, of 44 Oklahoma Ave., Bay Shore.

Menacing With a Weapon: Katherine Ramirez, 29, , 6 E. Sycamore St., Deer Park.

The above incidents were reported by Suffolk County Police and other local law enforcement and fire departments.

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Our Lady of Grace 5th grade Eagles CYO basketball team makes it to the playoffs

Our Lady of Grace West Babylon 5th grade Eagles CYO Basketball Team recently defeated Our Lady of Snow from Blue Point to win first place in the League Championship. The league championship game was held Dec. 20, and the team will be completing in the play-offs later this month. In the photo, top row: Head Coach Dianna Kazakis, Peyton Zito, Meadow Ferrigno, Maci Ferrigno, Emerson Forseth, Sara Demane, Aubrey Dunsmore, Assistant Coach Daniele Mussinan. Bottom row are: Isabella Williams, Jayla Streich, Anabella DeAngelilo, Madeline Mussinan and Eleni Kazakis.

21 graduating Farmingdale student athletes intending to compete on the collegiate level

The Farmingdale School District celebrated the accomplishments of 21 graduating student-athletes who will be advancing to compete at the collegiate level. A commitmentsigning ceremony took last month, to recognize these students for their unwavering commitment to academics and athletics.

Held at Farmingdale High School, the ceremony was a significant event filled with pride, excitement, and heartelt congratulations. Parents, coaches, and friends gathered to celebrate these student-athletes, who have demonstrated excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

“Your passion and dedication to your sport have brought you to this moment,” said Jeanne Berkoski, director of athletics. “A heartfelt thank you to the parents for your crucial role in supporting your children’s athletic pursuits.”

Paul Defendini, superintendent of schools, highlighted the importance of balancing academics with athletics, encouraging students to embrace the challenges and opportunities waiting.

“The entire Daler community extends its warmest congratulations to these talented student-athletes as they embark on the next chapter of their athletic and academic journeys,” he said. “Their achievements inspire all students, showcasing the rewards of hard work, dedication, and a growth mindset.”

The following Farmingdale High School graduating studentathletes have signed to play college sports: Juliana Abbene: soft -

ball at Mercy University; Angel Cartagena: baseball at Iona University; Jack DeLeo: baseball at the University of Mount Saint Vincent; Andrew Dillon: baseball at SUNY Oneonta; Ava Fierst: softball at St. John’s University; Gavin Gatchalian: football at Saint Anselm College; Logan Genna: lacrosse at SUNY New Paltz; Mia Hayes: diving at Drexel University; Katie Hecker: softball at Russell Sage College; Colin Horowitz: baseball at SUNY Maritime College; Matthew Hughes: lacrosse at the University of Bridgeport; Matt Ippoliti: lacrosse at Long Island University; Kiara Kegel: softball at Farmingdale State College; Aidan MacGilvray: lacrosse at Saint Leo University; Jake Mangio: lacrosse at Bryant University; Jack Molloy: baseball at the College of Staten Island; Allison Priestley: swimming at SUNY Oswego; Kevin Renneisen: lacrosse at DeSales University; Dylan Rosenberg: soccer at Russell Sage College; Loveleen Singh: cross country at Molloy University; Riley Walsh: lacrosse at Belmont Abbey College.

The governor assesses the state of the state

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul kicked off her fourth year in office on Jan. 14 by outlining her proposed 2025 agenda in her State of the State address. That agenda includes more than 200 initiatives, many of which would have an impact on Long Island.

Here are some of the key proposals Hochul discussed.

Affordability

Unsurprisingly, Hochul began the address with the issue on every New Yorker’s mind: the cost of living. New Yorkers have seen rising prices in housing, food, utilities, transportation and health care. According to RentCafe, the cost of living in New York is 26 percent higher than the national average.

The governor proposed tax cuts, rebate checks and savings from free school lunches, an initiative that could save a family of five $5,000 a year.

“I’m calling for a sweeping middle-class income tax cut benefitting 8.3 million taxpayers making less than $323,000,” she said. “The tax cut I propose today and will fight for in the coming months will deliver the lowest tax rates in seven decades and save hardworking taxpayers $1 billion.

“But that’s just the start,” she added.

A proposed $3 billion in inflation relief rebates would provide one-time payments of $300 or $500 based on income level and tax filing status. The initiative would have to be approved by the State Legislature.

Hochul’s budget also includes expanding the state’s child tax credit. Under the proposal, families could see the credit increase by as much as three times the current amount — up to $1,000 per child under age 4, and

Tim Baker/Herald

Gov. Kathy Hochul delivered her State of the State address on Jan. 14, discussing a wide range of policies. Above, the governor appeared at the Long Island Association’s State of the Region Breakfast on Jan. 10.

$500 for children ages 4 to 16. The changes would be phased in over two years.

She governor also proposed that households making up to $323,200 — roughly 77 percent of taxpayers — would be given an income tax break that could save households hundreds of dollars a year for roughly.

Education

Hochul unveiled a proposal that would offer free tuition to New Yorkers pursuing associate’s degrees in high-demand fields such as nursing, teaching, technology and engineering. The initiative would build on the state’s existing financial aid programs, and target residents between 25 and 55 seeking to learn new skills to look for jobs in essential industries.

Nearby states, including Massachusetts, have launched similar tuition-free college programs to address labor shortages and promote economic mobility.

Hochul also announced her support for universal free school meals. That would mean boosting state funds to expand an existing program that could reach 280,000 students who aren’t already covered.

Mental Health

Hochul, who is expected to seek re-election in 2026, took office in 2021 when residents statewide were grappling with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Many students faced — and continue to face — mental health challenges.

That has been a central focus throughout her administration. In her latest initiative, she aims to address concerns about random acts of violence committed by those with severe, untreated mental illness. Her agenda includes strengthening Kendra’s Law, which mandates outpatient treatment for certain people with mental illnesses who are not receiving care.

Additionally, Hochul is advocating for a Teen Mental Health First Aid program, to equip high school students with the skills to maintain their mental health and offer support to their peers. She also promoted mental health resources for after-school programs, to ensure students access to licensed health care facilities through state-funded programs.

Arena Football team to call Coliseum home

By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com

Arena Football is coming back to Nassau County, and this time it’s in a brand-new league in the form of the ENTFLA – the Entertainment Football Association.

Spearheaded by Hall of Famer and former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Andre Reed, flanked by league owner Doug Freeman with a slight style different: other than the fact that it will be indoors, is that it will be on 7-on-7 format with a reduced play clock, along with the elimination of kicking on fourth down, leading to overall higher-scoring and higher-paced games.

Uniondale and Nassau Coliseum will be the home of one of four teams in the ENTFLA, with the other teams based in Morristown, NJ, Danbury, CT and Fitchburg, MA. The season is projected to run from June to August.

The emphasis of the new league in the land of Billy Joel and bagels was to bring professional sports to local, blue-collar families without breaking the bank, with an added emphasis on entertainment appropriate for the entire family while at a pro game, confirmed by its mission statement.

League advisor Tommy Benizio said the real purpose is to bring something that’s affordable, fun and entertaining, giving families in Long Island a place to come without driving hours and pay hundreds of dollars in tickets and parking passes to watch football live in an arena.

Plus, it’s meant to be fun.

“Between the players flying over the wall, landing in your lap and knocking your hotdog out of your hand, you catch a football you get to keep it, the cheerleaders, the mascot, the dancing and T-shirt canons, it is a fun and entertaining thing for three or four hours on Sat-

urday nights,” Benizio said. “So before you can come into the building we want live music and jumping castles for kids and a beer garden, it’s a party.”

With over 100 high school football teams on the island, the league’s owners hope for a close connection between the youth of Long Island growing in the sport they love, and the professionals engaged in it. Roosevelt High School football head coach Joe Vito is excited to see how a local pro football team will create an additional positive influence for his players.

“I’m excited to be able to have my team come here and see and maybe dream about maybe being this one day,” Vito said. “I try to expose our kids to a lot of things and coming to this is will be something they’ll be exposed to, so they’re excited to get the opportunity to come.”

Reed, the league commissioner, is key on the possibility of giving all types of NCAA football players another avenue to play the sport they love even if they don’t make it to the Show.

“We’re gonna be pulling kids from college, that pool, and a lot of these that are going to play in this league, when they play in this league, it’s another avenue for them to get to the Big Time,” Reed said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re at, if you’re good enough and display those attributes that a team might want, you can find somewhere to go and get a chance. We feel this league is about that.”

Each team will play 8 regular-season games.

“Anytime that we could have another opportunity to have more of our kids play professional football, is a great opportunity that we love as we coach the youth,” Vito said.

The nickname for the “Long Island” or “New York” franchise will be determined through a naming contest. Visit goentfla.com for more information.

Courtesy ENTFLA

Buffalo Bills legend Andre Reed is commissioner of the new Entertainment Football Association, which debuts in June with four franchises including Long Island.

STEPPING OUT

Photos courtesy LICM

In the Orion spacecraft, future astronauts interact with buttons, levers and sounds as they learn facts about what it takes to bring humans to the Moon, and eventually to Mars.

Space explorers need to utilize limited resources on the moon to live and survive. At this work station, children transport objects to and from the surface using foam blocks.

for an out-of-this-world

adventure

‘Moon to Mars’ touches down at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Danielle Schwab

Calling all future space explorers! It’s time to set course to the moon, and beyond, with opportunities for kids to fuel their imaginations and dream bigger — and farther — than ever before.

“Moon to Mars” has rocketed into Long Island Children’s Museum, on view through May 4. The traveling exhibit, — created by Omaha Children’s Museum and designed with support from NASA’s Deep Space Exploration Systems at Johnson Space Center — brings the wonders of space to life for young learners. Through six immersive play zones, future explorers get a first-hand look at current space technology and discover the possibilities of future missions.

“We have the resources to bring a really complex topic to life for children, where they can understand what makes a mission possible like what tools are used or why astronauts need to wear protective clothing,” says Ashley Niver, the museum’s director of education.

Inspired by the current realities and the future dreams of space travel, the exhibit’s connection to real NASA technology is what makes it so compelling. Kids can climb aboard the Orion Spacecraft, designed to carry astronauts on future Artemis missions — using buttons, levers and sounds — or take the wheel of the Lunar Rover to explore the moon’s rugged surface.

“With the recent advancements in space exploration, like the launch of the James Webb telescope and the evolution of SpaceX, it’s the perfect time to introduce an exhibit focused on the future Artemis Mission,” Niver says. “We have so many leaps in space exploration and so many new things on the horizon.”

Clearly, creating advanced space technology is no simple feat. It involves creativity, problem-solving and much trial and error on the part of a diverse team. Young space explorers have the chance to dive into that engineering process, designing and building their very own rockets, and then launching their creations across the room.

“There’s a lot of engineering components that come into this, involving critical thinking for kids. These people [the spacecraft systems developers] have an incredible amount of skill and knowledge about space and creating these structures, but there are still things that they might realize don’t work, and to solve the problem,” Niver adds.

“The exhibit offers children endless opportunities to nurture their curiosity through the most effective way we know they learn: play. It also provides a valuable opportunity for parents to discover ways to incorporate big concepts like space exploration, physics and engineering into play at home. Whether it’s building a Martian landscape with pillows or creating a rocket ship out of a cardboard box, these activities spark storytelling that encourages imagination and inspires the ‘big thinkers’ of tomorrow.”

After young “explorers” have landed at their destination, there’s still much to be discovered. Visitors can get geared up in a spacesuit and explore a new world.

Among the components, kids can construct a new base using pulleys and blocks at the Moon Base Builder to make the planet or moon inhabitable.

Once the base is complete, step through the lunar leaps and feel the changes in gravity as you walk — or jump.

• Now until May 4

• $18 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

“You could take a leap and you have to work really hard to jump far on the moon. You wouldn’t have to do that because you don’t have the gravitational force pulling you as strong,” Niver explains.

Additional learning opportunities are found at the Space Academy Kiosk video display. It covers all things space exploration such as life in space, spacesuits, and real-life astronauts.

Each activity shows the boundless nature of space in kidfriendly fashion, perhaps even inspiring some future astronauts and space engineers.

“They can step into the role. It helps kids to connect to something that isn’t exactly what they know, they could put on a costume or a spacesuit and really embody that character. Hands-on play is a great way to engage them in content or topics that may be a little bit more foreign to them,” Niver says.

“The astronauts, at one point, were kids too. They dreamed of the same thing as you. You can understand the path that they went through that led them to their current career,” she adds.

As always, related programming enhances the exhibit experience. This time around, the museum is partnering with its Museum Row neighbor, Cradle of Aviation Museum.The Cradle’s portable, inflatable planetarium dome, the Digitalis Planetarium, will be in residence Feb. 17-21, for more space exploration. Families can discover the majesty of the stars and our universe during a 30-minute presentation led by a trained Cradle of Aviation educator. Four planetarium performances will be offered each day.

The LICM stage also gets in on the act with the futuristic production of “Interstellar Cinderella,” Feb. 7-March 21. Set in 3017, Cinderella is a space engineer who is looking to revolutionize space travel with her new invention.

While the exhibit is “in orbit” be sure to check out more related programming; information is on the museum’s website.

Acrobats of Cirque-tacular

Families will enjoy a new take on circus-style thrills when the Acrobats of Cirque-tacular visits the Landmark stage,. Cirque-tacular features one dazzling circus feat after another in a high-energy, family-friendly flurry of fun. Indulge your curiosity and celebrate your senses as this troupe of acrobats, aerialists and circus specialty artists bend, twist, flip, and fly into everyone’ hearts. Cirque-tacular’s performers — an ever-changing cast of elite aerialists, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, specialty acts and world-record holders from Broadway and Las Vegas stages — are hailed as “mesmerizing”, “incredible”, and “truly impressive.” The performers are revered as cutting edge leaders of the new American vaudeville movement. Explosive music that complements the performance and act adds to the fun.

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2 p.m. $38. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

‘Dancing with the Stars’

Dancing with the Stars is back on tour to heat up winter with a dazzling live production. See the ballroom brought to life in this new edition featuring everyone’s favorite Dancing with the Stars pros and special guests. They’ll perform glittering new numbers as well as some of the unbelievable showstoppers featured in season 33. The high-energy show puts the dancers in the spotlight, showcase their dynamic moves as seen during the series, along with some lively new twists. The tour delivers an unforgettable night of electrifying dance performances from worldrenowned dancers who topped the leaderboard.

Tuesday, Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com, tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Intergalatic adventures take flight.

THE Your Neighborhood

‘Easy come, easy go’

Queen-mania rocks on. Almost Queen returns to the Paramount stage with their homage to the beloved band, Saturday, Feb. 1 , 8 p.m. They don’t just pay tribute to the legendary band, Almost Queen transports you back in time to experience the magic and essence of Queen themselves. The band — featuring Joseph Russo as Freddie Mercury, Steve Leonard as Brian May, Randy Gregg as John Deacon, and John Cappadona as Roger Taylor — is “guaranteed to blow your mind” with iconic four-part harmonies and expertly executed musical interludes. dynamic live performance showcasing signature four-part harmonies and intricate musical interludes. The band’s authenticity shines through in their impeccable attention to detail and genuine costumes, while their live energy and precision captivates fans of all ages with an unforgettable concert experience. Almost Queen’s concerts are a true testament to the band’s love for Queen’s music.

The carefully curated setlist featuring Queen’s best-loved songs, like “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Fat Bottomed Girls,” and “Radio Ga Ga,” along with lesser known tracks. And of course, no Queen tribute concert would be complete without classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions!” It’s no wonder fans keep coming back for more. $79.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $34.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

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

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

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

Movie matinee

Come in from the cold and enjoy a movie on Farmingdale Public Library’s big screen. See ther 2004 political satire “Welcome to Mooseport” starring Ray Romano and Gene Hackman, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 1:304 p.m. A former U.S. president who has moved to a colorful Maine hamlet and suddenly finds himself running for mayor against another local candidate. Preference is given to UFSD #22 residents. To register and for more information, call (516) 249-9090. 116 Merritts Road., Farmingdale.

Model Train Show

The TMB Model Train Show features its ever-exciting show of model trains running in dozens of interesting settings, Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 9, 1-5 p.m., at the Upper Room Church. With new scenic areas to discover as well as familiar sights and a wide variety of trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains, all set in 6,500 square feet of fun for the entire family. Admission is free. So, mark your calendars now. 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills. For more information go to tmbmodeltrainclub.com.

2025 NYS Parks Winter Run

Series

Plan to run in the New Year when the 2025 NYS Parks Winter Run Series continues o the following dates: Robert Moses Jan. 19, Sunken Meadow Jan. 26, Jones Beach Feb. 2, All races start at 11 a.m. For more information contact Brendan Sagan at (516) 5313323 or go to events.elitefeats. com/25nyswinter. Heckscher State Park, East Islip, Field #2.

Bedazzle your book

Bedazzle your favorite hardcover book with rhinestones at West Islip Public Library, Thursday, Feb. 6, 7-8 p.m. Also discuss with fellow readers your 2025 reading list. With music and plenty of craft supplies to choose from. To register and for more information, call (631) 6617080. 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip.

Celebrate the ‘Year of the Snake’

The Vanderbilt Museum celebrates the Lunar New Year, Saturday, Feb. 1, 10 a.m.-noon Attendees will have the opportunity to make a paper lantern, learn Chinese calligraphy and create a traditional good luck decoration. $20, $18 for members. To purchase tickets, visit shorturl. at/yE3Xn. 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. For more information, call (631) 854-5579.

Valentine’s Chocolate Talk

West Babylon Public Library presents a Valentine’s chocolate talk, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 7-8:30 p.m. Explore how chocolate can be the perfect companion to those busy, messy and real-life moments that make up our relationships. For adults only. To register and for more information, call (631) 6695445. 211 Route 109, W. Babylon.

Teen Winter Reading Club

The Teens Winter Reading Club at Babylon Public Library extends until Sunday, March 2. Students are encouraged to join the library’s winter reading club. Fill out a review for each book you read and submit it at the Reference Desk for a raffle ticket for the prize of your choosing. For more information, call (631) 669-1624. 24 South Carll Ave., Babylon.

Having an event?

Bay Shore Historical Society 2025 Calendar

Bay Shore Historical Society’s 2025 calendar is on sale now. A 12-month calendar that features historic images of Bay Shore! A historic look back around town for each month. This fundraiser calendars help fund the society’s work to preserve Bay Shore history. Limited supply calendars are only $15 (plus $2 shipping). Stop by 22 Maple Ave., Bay Shore or mail your order form in with a $17 check (made payable to the Bay Shore Historical Society). Find the order form at bayshorehistoricalsociety. org/2025-calendar.

Fireplace Room Chat with Mayor Adams

Babylon Public Library hosts a discussion with Mayor Mary Adams, Thursday, Jan. 23 , 6-7:45 p.m. 24 South Carll Ave., Babylon. For more information, contact Mayor Adams’ office at (631) 669-1212.

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.

Knights of Columbus Annual Long Island Cares Fundraiser

Lindenhurst OLPH Knights of Columbus host their annual Long Island Cares Fundraiser, Thursday, Feb. 6, 6-9 p.m., at Cebollines Mexican Restaurant and Grill in Lindenhurst. $5 margaritas, sangria, beers and wine, as well as free chips and salsa. Honorary Chairman, Brother Knight and Town of Babylon Councilman Anthony Manetta will attend. If guests choose to support the 50/50 raffle, they receive a free drink. Donations also accepted. For more information, visit cebollinescomida.com or call (631) 592-9845. 170 Montauk Hwy., Lindenhurst.

First Presbyterian Church of Babylon requests food pantry items

First Presbyterian Church Food Pantry needs items this season. The church is requesting those interested in donating to stop by with any of the following items: pancake mix, oatmeal, boxed macaroni and cheese, spaghetti sauce, canned chicken, frozen beef patties, boxed potato, rice, canned soup and peanut butter. Donations can be dropped by the church house Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 79 East Main St., Babylon. For more information, call (631) 587-5838.

BACCA 50th Anniversary Commemorative Art Journal on sale now

BACCA has created a commemorative art journal in celebration of 50 years of the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts. The commemorative art journal features the work of 33 local artists, all of whom are BACCA members. To purchase your own copy of this full-color, 52page artfully designed book, visit the donations page at babylonarts. org/support-bacca. For more information, call (631) 587-3696

Learn to sew

North Babylon Public Library hosts Sewing 101 with Sue, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Learn how to thread the machine and how to make a bobbin. All materials are provided, and all pieces are precut so everyone brings home a finished project. Sewing machines will be provided, however, if you have one, bring it to class so you can learn on the machine you will use. To register and for more information, call (631) 669-4020. 815 Deer Park Ave., N. Babylon.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I INC. TRUST

2007-HE3 MORTGAGE

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-HE3, -againstSONIA JACKSON, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on August 5, 2024, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY ABS CAPITAL I INC. TRUST 2007-HE3 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES

2007-HE3 is the Plaintiff and SONIA JACKSON, 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 February 18, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 320 COMMACK ROAD, DEER PARK, NY 11729; and the following tax map identification: 0100-091.0001.00-061.002.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE HAMLET OF DEER PARK, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611567/2021. Peter Kramer, 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.

25-31. 1/16, 23, 30, 2/6

Public Notices — Your right to know

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, -againstCHRISTOPHER C. BRIGHT, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 16, 2022, wherein BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION is the Plaintiff and CHRISTOPHER C. BRIGHT, 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 February 18, 2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 10 HAYES ROAD, AMITY HARBOR, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100-182.0001.00-125.000. 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.: 617138/2017. Robert P. Valletti, 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 SA LE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES. 25-30 1/16, 23, 30, 2/6

REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

SELENE FINANCE LP, Plaintiff - against - JONATHAN DOERING, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of

Foreclosure and Sale entered on October 13, 2022. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 13th day of February, 2025 at 1:30 PM. 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 known as 1 Deer Lake Drive, North Babylon, NY 11703.

(Section: 150.00, Block: 01.00, Lot: 035.001)

Approximate amount of lien $533,112.56 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 603302/2018. Arthur J. Burdette, Esq., Referee.

Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY Tel. 516/742-1212

Dated: December 1, 2024

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 25-28. 1/16, 23 30, 2/6

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK. WISDOM VENTURES, LLC, Plaintiff, v. SUPERIOR DEVELOPMENT GROUP, INC., et al., Defendants. Index No. 607761/2021

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale granted herein on December 12, 2024, I the undersigned, the Referee in said Judgment named, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757,

County of SUFFOLK, State of New York on February 20, 2025 at 2:00 pm of that day, the premises directed by said Judgment to be sold and therein described as follows: Said premises being known as and by street address 92 Glenmalure Street, Amityville, NY 11701

District 0100 Section 172.00

Block 03.00 Lot 031.000 Said premises are sold subject to the terms and conditions of the filed Judgment and the Terms of Sale. Approximate amount of Judgment $362,600.00.

Dated: Garden City, New York

January 3, 2025

THOMAS G. TERESKY, ESQ., Referee

Adam E. Mikolay, P.C.

Attorney for Plaintiff 400 Garden City Plaza Suite 405 Garden City, New York 11530 (516) 222-2050 25-29. 1/16, 23, 30 2/6

LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF BABYLON SUFFOLK COUNTY, TOWN OF BABYLON STATE OF NEW YORK NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Inc. Village of Babylon will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 7:00pm at Village Hall, 153 West Main Street, Babylon, New York 11702, to consider the following:

•An Application by Frankie Bragaglia and Babylon Crew LLC., for a Special Use Permit to open and operate a lounge/restaurant and a pickle ball court to be located at the address of 96 E. Main Street, Babylon, New York 11702;

•A proposed local law prohibiting the establishment of retail stores that sell firearms within the territorial boundaries of the Village of Babylon.

•Proposed Local Law 0128PH of 2025– Tax Cap, authorizing a property tax levy increase more than the limit established in General Municipal Law §3-c. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that at said hearings all interested parties will be given an opportunity to be heard on said proposed Local Law at

the place and time aforesaid. Copies of the proposed Local Law will be available at the Village Hall at least five (5) days before the public hearing and may be seen during the regular business hours.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES VILLAGE OF BABYLON

Jean Marie Parker

Village Clerk

Dated: Babylon, New York

January 5, 2025 25-27. 1/16, 23

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0240-25-100444  for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 120 E. Main St, Bay Shore, NY 11706, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at The Heaven Pie LLC. 25-32. 1/16, 23

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON

ACCESSORY APARTMENT REVIEW BOARD

Pursuant to provisions of Local Law # 9 of the Babylon Town Code, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board will hold a public hearing in the Town Board Meeting Room in the East Wing of Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on Tuesday eve, January 28th, 2025. Public hearings begin 6:00pm.

NEW APPLICATIONS:

•Cosmo Laurino 30 Manor Lane

Copiague, NY 11726

SCTM#0100-192-3-46

•Rools Deslouches

3 Lana Court North Babylon, NY 11703

SCTM#0100-86-1-114

•Marynell Chicas 1517 10th Street Wheatley Heights, NY 11798

SCTM#0100-137-2-42

Printing Instructions: RENEWALS BY AFFIDAVIT APPLICANTS, ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR. ALL NEW CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED. All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Sandra Thomas, Chairperson, Accessory Apartment Review

Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York. Babylon Beacon: Thursday, January 23rd, 2024 25-34. 1/23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust National Association, not in its Individual Capacity but Solely as Owner Trustee for RCF 2 Acquisition Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Calvin S. Smith Sr, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 24, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 24, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 102 43rd Street, Copiague, NY 11726. 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 202.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 062.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $386,214.80 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #207634/2022. Cash will not be accepted.

Robert J. Cava, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 25-36. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

Notice of formation of Seaside Solutions LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/06/2024 Office location, County of Suffolk. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a process served to:

The LLC, 41 State Street, Suite 112, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: any lawful act. 25-22. 1/9, 16, 23, 30, 2/6, 13

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF Suffolk, US Bank Trust National Association, not in its Individual Capacity but Solely as Owner Trustee for VRMTG Asset Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Aiysha Nugent, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 21, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 13, 2025 at 3:30 p.m., premises known as 13 Ronald Drive South a/k/a 13 S. Ronald Drive, 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 165.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 038.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $413,568.59 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #208150/2022. Cash will not be accepted. Alison M. Varley, Esq., Referee

Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 25-16. 1/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURESTATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION

TRUST C/O U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, v. VEROLYN WOOD AKA VAL WOOD AKA VEROLYN S. WOOD AKA V.S. WOOD AKA STEPHANIE WOOD, ET AL, Defendants.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office

Public Notices — Your right to know

of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on October 31, 2024, I, Joy E. Jorgensen, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 12, 2025 at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757, at 10:30

AM the premises described as follows:

265 East Drive aka 265 E Dr Copiague, NY 11726

SBL: 0100-191.00-01.00148.000

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 617451/2022 in the amount of $514,523.23 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604

Tel.: 855-227-5072

25-17 1/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v. FED DUMERVILLE, ET AL, Defendants.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on October 18, 2019, I, Scott Lockwood, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 13, 2025 at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757, at 03:00

PM the premises described as follows:

75 Fillmore Avenue Deer Park, NY 11729

SBL No.: 0100-093.00-01.00146.000

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Babylon, County

of Suffolk, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 069384/2014 in the amount of $518,114.59 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604

Tel.: 855-227-5072

25-18 1/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR LVS TITLE TRUST XIII, Plaintiff, v. GREGORY J. CIEJKA, ET AL, Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on June 21, 2023, I, Thomas A. Abbate, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 11, 2025 at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757, at 11:00 AM the premises described as follows:

139 West 21st Street Deer Park, NY 11729

SBL No.: 0100-059.00-03.00076.000

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 614708/2016 in the amount of $508,889.56 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons

must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604

Tel.: 855-227-5072

25-19 1/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK BRANCH BANKING AND TRUST COMPANY, Plaintiff, Against DIANE SCHMIDT; PAUL G. SCHMIDT, et al, Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/20/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 2/6/2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 624 Adams Ave, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village Of Lindenhurst, Township Of Babylon, Suffolk County, State Of New York.

District 0103 Section 022.00 Block 02.00 Lot 036.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $262,297.85 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 609291/2015

Robert Fuchs, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 MIDLAND AVENUE, SUITE 205, PORT CHESTER, NY 10573

Dated: 12/19/2024 File Number: 19-300626 MB 25-20 1/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR SABR 2004-OP1 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-OP1, Plaintiff, Against JOANNE ANANIA

Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 08/19/2022, I, the

undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 2/12/2025 at 10:30AM, premises known as 48 Walnut Ave, Farmingdale, New York 11735, And Described As Follows:

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 047.00 Block 01.00 Lot 091.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $558,035.02 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 23768/2005

HARVEY SAVITT, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 12/30/2024 File Number: 560-1734 CA 25-23. 1/9, 16, 23, 30

Notice of formation of Vaccaro property management LLC, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 12/02/2024 . Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 11 west 21 street deer park ny 11729. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

25-24. 1/9., 16., 23,. 30, 2/6, 13

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, WATERFALL VICTORIA GRANTOR TRUST II, SERIES G, Plaintiff, vs. NORBERTO FERNANDEZ AKA NORBERTO F. FERNANDEZ, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on July 30, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Town of Riverhead-Riverhead Town Hall, 4 W. 2nd Street, Riverhead, NY 11901 on January 31, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., premises

known as 442 42nd Street, Copiague, NY 11726. 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 201.00, Block 01.00 and Lot 017.002. Approximate amount of judgment is $845,225.75 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 020509/2012.

Richard Lavorata, Jr., Esq., Referee

Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 25-12. 1/2, 9, 16, 23

Notice of formation of 6-8 Colt Babylon, LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on December 13, 2024. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY is designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to, 25 Davison Ln W, West Islip, N.Y 11795. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 24-765. 12/26, 1/2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Notice of formation of 4 Colt Babylon, LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on December 6, 2024. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY is designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to, 25 Davison Ln W, West Islip, N.Y 11795. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 24-766. 12/26, 1/2, 9, 16, 23, 30

REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiffagainst - RENEE WHITE, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 27, 2020. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 5th day of February, 2025 at 10:00 AM. 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, State of New York.

Premises known as 27 Piave Terrace East a/k/a 27 Piave Terrace, Lindenhurst, NY 11757.

(District: 0100, Section: 188.00, Block: 01.00, Lot: 030.000)

Approximate amount of lien $299,669.78 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 611542/2019.

Steven P. Bertolino, Esq., Referee.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: November 27, 2024

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 25-6. 1/2, 9, 16, 23

Public Notices — Your right to know

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 20071, -againstJOHNNY E. JONES, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on September 18, 2019, wherein HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2007-1 is the Plaintiff and JOHNNY E. JONES, 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 February 4, 2025 at 11:00AM, premises known as 40 SOUTH 29TH ST, WYANDANCH, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100-054.0004.00-044.001.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, 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.: 030161/2011. Daniel J. Murphy, 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.

25-8. 1/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, MT-

GLQ Investors, L.P., Plaintiff, vs. Jewel Nash, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 5, 2022 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on August 22, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 6, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 38 Hilltop Lane, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798. 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 014.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 020.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $410,281.73 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609043/2015. Cash will not be accepted.

Joy Jorgensen, Esq., Referee

Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 25-5 1/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR SG MORTGAGE SECURITIES TRUST 2006-FRE1, ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FRE1, Plaintiff, v.

ALICIA OTERO, ET AL, Defendants.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on October 25, 2018, I, Joy E. Jorgensen, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 6, 2025 at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757, at 11:00 AM the premises described as follows:

219 Cedar Ct Copiague, NY 11726

SBL No.: 0100-194.0002.00-099.000 & 100.000 ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 605237/2015 in the amount of $533,708.74 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604

Tel.: 855-227-5072 25-10. 1/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust National Association, as Trustee of the LB Igloo Series IV Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Babar Afzal, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 21, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 5, 2025 at 1:00 p.m., premises known as 14 North 11th Street, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798. 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 040.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 020.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $259,868.20 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #629417/2023.

Francesco P. Tini, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 193421-4 25-11. 1/2. 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY

NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff against SCOTT ORENSTEIN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered May 1, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 4, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 125 Greenwood Drive, North Babylon, NY 11703. District 0100 Sec 120.00 Block 01.00 Lot 039.000. 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. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $355,897.08 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 617742/2021.

“Deposit by certified funds only, made payable to the referee” The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Robert Samson, Esq., Referee ile # 6961459 25-7 1/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, Mill City Mortgage Loan Trust 2018-4, Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, as Trustee, Plaintiff, vs. Christopher Ferrell as Co-Administrator and Heir and Distributee of the Estate of Joan E. Franks a/k/a Joan E. Ferrell a/k/a Joan E. Ferrell Franks a/k/a Joan Ferrellfranks, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 21, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 26, 2025 at 1:00 p.m., premises known as 36 Jefferson Avenue, 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 164.00, Block 04.00 and Lot 007.001. Approximate amount of judgment is $367,045.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #607333/2023.

Brooke J. Breen, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 222393-1 25-37. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

Notice of formation of 4 Sons Charter and Guide Services LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 12/03/2024. Office located in Suffolk . SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC  172 West Lake Drive Lindenhurst NY 11757 . Purpose: any lawful purpose. 25-45. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13, 20, 27

PUBLIC NOTICE VILLAGE OF BABYLON 153 W. MAIN STREET, BABYLON, NY 11702

MUNICIPAL BUILDING PLANNING BOARD

MEETING AGENDA January 30, 2025 NEW BUSINESS: Vitale 49 Cedar Street Subdivision Skin By Mish 65 Deer Park Avenue Site Plan Review

OLD BUSINESS: Rogers 27 Caledonia Ave Driveway/Home 25-46 1/23

Notice of formation of ENSENADA PR LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/09/25 Office location, County of Suffolk. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a process served to:

The LLC, 434 Rutgers Road, West Babylon NY 11704 Purpose: any lawful act. 25-33. 1/23,30, 2/6, 13, 20, 27

LEGAL NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLKBABYLON.

CITIMORTGAGE, INC.,

SUCCESSOR BY MERGER

TO ABN AMRO MORTGAGE GROUP, INC., Plaintiff -against- BLANCA CABRERA INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AT LAW OF BLANCE TORRES, LUCIA CABRERA INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AT LAW OF BLANCA TORRES, et al

Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated February 27, 2024 and entered on March 5, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY on February 4, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Village of Lindenhurst, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the westerly side of South 16th Street, distant 192.95 feet northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of Reade Avenue and the westerly side of South 16th Street; being a plot 90 feet by 64.32 feet by 90 feet by 64.32 feet.

Section: 013.00 Block: 04.00 Lot: 018.000

Said premises known as 375 SOUTH 16TH STREET, LINDENHURST, NY 11757 Approximate amount of lien $657,156.00 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 033424/2013.

SCOTT SILLER, ESQ., Referee

David A. Gallo & Associates LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030

File# 7682.86

The above sale, originally scheduled for January 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. has been postponed. The new sale date has been rescheduled for February 4, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the same time and place.

SCOTT SILLER, ESQ., Referee. 25-35. 1/23

Public Notices — Your right to know

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY

CITIMORTGAGE, INC.,

Plaintiff against CHRISTOPHER J. NUGENT, et al Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered July 25, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 444 Windmill Avenue, North Babylon, NY 11704. District 0100 Sec 138.00 Block 04.00 Lot

041.000. All that certain lot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $317,309.48 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 605641/2023. For sale information, please visit www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

Ryan N Brown, Esq., Referee File # NY202200000280-1 25-38 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK - BABYLON

RMS SERIES TRUST 20201 BY U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS IN -

DIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE, Plaintiff -against- RICHARD S. ULLMER; KAREN M. ULLMER, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated April 12, 2023 and entered on April 17, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY on February 21, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the northerly side of 18th Street, distant 1382.56 feet easterly from the extreme southerly end of a curve having a radius of 25 feet and a length of 40.32 feet connecting the easterly side of Wellwood Avenue and the northerly side of 18th Street; being a plot 122.55 feet by 62 feet by 122.55 feet by 62 feet.

District: 0100 Section: 130.00 Block: 02.00 Lot: 004.000 Said premises known as 523 18TH STREET, WEST BABYLON, NY 11704 Approximate amount of lien $424,148.09 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 24219/2012.

VINCENT M. AMICIZIA, ESQ., Referee Kosterich & Skeete, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave, Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604 25-39. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, 2006-NC1, Plaintiff AGAINST MELCHIOR SANSONE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 24, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on February 25, 2025 at 10:30AM, premises known as 779 Peconic Avenue, North Babylon, NY 11703. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings

and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, Section: 140.00, Block: 04.00, Lot: 071.001. Approximate amount of judgment $1,125,237.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #015312/2009. Erin M. McTiernan, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-147435 84007 25-40. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK NEW REZ LLC F/K/A NEW PENN FINANCIAL LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, -againstBEVERLY V. DOWD, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on March 10, 2023, wherein NEW REZ LLC F/K/A NEW PENN FINANCIAL LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING is the Plaintiff and BEVERLY V. DOWD, 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 February 20, 2025 at 9:30AM, premises known as 81 PURDY LN, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0101-012.0005.00-030.001.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF AMITYVILLE, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 606513/2016. Arthur E. Shulman, 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.

25-41. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE NRPL TRUST 2019-3 MORTGAGEBACKED NOTES, SERIES 2019-3, -againstJEFFREY GOLDMAN, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on December 12, 2023, wherein WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE NRPL TRUST 2019-3 MORTGAGE-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2019-3 is the Plaintiff and JEFFREY GOLDMAN, 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 February 26, 2025 at 3:00PM, premises known as 300 DOLPHIN LANE, WEST BABYLON, NY 11704; and the following tax map identification: 0100-230.00-01.00044.000 & 065.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, 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.: 619973/2020. Joshua P. Blumberg, 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. 25-42. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 2019-4, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, -againstMARGARET HAYES A/K/A MARGARET E. HAYES, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 25, 2024, wherein TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 20194, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and MARGARET HAYES A/K/A MARGARET E. HAYES, 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 February 26, 2025 at 3:30PM, premises known as 103 NORTH 18TH STREET, WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100-039.00-02.00-110.002. ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE CITY OF WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 624057/2023. Joshua P. Blumberg, 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.

25-43. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13 Keep

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIA -

TION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2005OPT1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-OPT1, -againstNAHEED KHAN A/K/A NAHEED CHAUDHRY, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on April 11, 2024, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2005-OPT1, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-OPT1 is the Plaintiff and NAHEED KHAN A/K/A NAHEED CHAUDHRY, 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 February 25, 2025 at 1:30PM, premises known as 15 BRIARWOOD ROAD, WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100009.00-02.00-015.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, 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.: 617696/2018. Arthur Burdette, 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.

25-44 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WELLS FARGO BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE F/K/A NORWEST BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RENAISSANCE HEL TRUST 2004-2 Plaintiff, Against LESTON DOUGLAS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO GRESMORE BLACKMAN DOUGLAS A/K/A GRESMORE BLACKMAN A/K/A GRESMORE B. DOUGLAS A/K/A G.J. BLACKMAN DOUGLAS A/K/A G.J. BLACKMAN-DOUGLAS A/K/A GRESMORE J. BLACKMAN DOUGLAS A/K/A GRESMORE JESMA BLACKMAN-DOUGLAS; LENESHIA DOUGLAS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO GRESMORE BLACKMAN DOUGLAS A/K/A GRESMORE BLACKMAN A/K/A GRESMORE B. DOUGLAS A/K/A

G.J. BLACKMAN DOUG -

LAS A/K/A G.J. BLACKMAN-DOUGLAS A/K/A

GRESMORE J. BLACKMAN

DOUGLAS A/K/A GRES -

MORE JESMA BLACKMAN-DOUGLAS; et al

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/03/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 2/26/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 580 Albany Avenue, Amityville, New York 11701, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at North Amityville, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

District 0100 Section 173.00 Block 02.00 Lot 005.031 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $218,310.48 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 619557/2023

Brook J. Breen, Esq., Referee.

Public Notices — Your right to know

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 1/3/2025 File Number: 22-301172 CA 25-47. 1/23, 30, 2/6, 13

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WELLS FARGO BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE

F/K/A NORWEST BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR DELTA FUNDING HOME EQUITY LOAN

TRUST 1999-3, Plaintiff, Against TARA BIRT; KYLE BIRT AKA KYLE L. BIRT; GAVIN BIRT AKA GAVIN T. BIRT; et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/29/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 2/21/2025 at 10:30AM, premises known as 30 Winter Avenue, Wheatley Heights A.K.A. Wyandanch Heights, NY 11798, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Wyandanch, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

District 0100 Section 040.00 Block 01.00 Lot 113.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $153,334.41 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 616281/2018

Edward Heilig, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 MIDLAND AVENUE, SUITE 205, PORT CHESTER, NY 10573

Dated: 12/31/2024 File Number: 18-300921 MB 25-48. 1/23. 30, 2/6, 13

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, January 27, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to consider the following application(s) PUBLIC HEARING/MINOR SUBDIVISION

JOB# 24-53B; MR Property Builders, LLC: SCTM# 0100122-03-032: Zone - Residence B: SEQRA – Unlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant is proposing to subdivide a 17,500sf lot into one 10,000sf lot and one 7,500sf lot in order to erect a new two-story single family dwelling on Lot #2 and legally maintain the existing two-story single family dwelling on Lot #1.: Property is located on the northeast corner of Dubois Avenue and Monroe Street, Amityville, 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

Babylon Beacon: 1-23-25 25-49. 1/23

NOTICE TO BIDDERS VILLAGE OF BABYLON NEW YORK

SEALED BIDS will be received by the Village Clerk of the Village of Babylon at 153 West Main Street, Babylon, New York, 11702 on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at which time they will be publicly opened and read, and the Contract awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for the: VILLAGE OF BABYLON REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FOR DRAINAGE WORK

The project includes contracts for various drainage items to be utilized in Village of Babylon roadway projects.  The contract is for one year and may be extended to two additional years.  Drawings and specifications may be examined and obtained at the Village Hall,

between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM daily except Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays on and after Thursday, January 23, 2025.  A non-refundable deposit of $50.00 is required for each set of contract documents. Checks are to be made payable to the Village of Babylon.  Each proposal must be accompanied by a Certified Check made payable to the Village of Babylon in the amount of five hundred dollars ($500.00) for bid security.

Bid proposals should be made in sealed envelopes clearly marked “Requirements Contract for Drainage Work”. Said bids will be opened and read aloud at the above stated time.

The Village of Babylon encourages minority and women owned businesses to participate in all bids.

The Village of Babylon reserves the right to waive any informalities in Bidding and to reject all bids or to accept any Bid, which in the opinion of the Board, will be in the best interest of the Village.  By Order of the Board of Trustees

Jean Marie Parker, Village Clerk

Dated: January 15, 2025 Babylon, NY 11702 25-50 1/23, 30

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.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26

•Right This Way - A History of the Audience: 2 p.m. at the Village of Babylon Historical & Preservation Society Museum, 117 W. Main St., Babylon Village. There are a lot of books about stars, movies, directors, writers, designers and all the people whose work you see on the stage, screen and playing field. What they all miss is the most important collaborator of all -- the audience. When you sit down at a play or a movie or a concert—or even in front of the TV in your own home—you are taking part in one of the oldest and most mysterious forms of group human behavior. The lecture sheds light on fascinating stories from the past and issues that shape our lives today—everything from the ancient Greeks, the audience that saw Abraham Lincoln assassinated, the history of booing, the appeal of horror movies, the group reaction at sports events, right up to binge-watching Netflix. Everyone has been a part of an audience at one time or another. They probably never realized how important the audience experience is to human psychology and well-being. This program explores what the audience experience brings us, what it’s good for and how it may evolve in the 2020s.

MONDAY, JANUARY 27

•Babylon School Board of Education meeting: 7:30 p.m. For meeting information, call

531-893-7925 ; or visit their web site @ http:// www.babylon.k12.ny.us.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28

•Village of Babylon Board of Trustees meeting: 7 p.m. (work session); 8 p.m. (regular meeting); Village Hall, 153 W. Main St., Babylon. For additional meeting information, call 631669-1500; or email: info@villageofbabylonny. gov; or visit the web site @https://www.villageofbabylonny.gov.

•West Babylon School Board of Education meeting: 7 p.m. at the West Babylon Administration Building, 10 Farmingdale Rd., W. Babylon. For info., call 631-376-7008.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29

•Town of Babylon Town Board meeting: 3 p.m., Town Board Room, 200 E. Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst. For additional information, call 631-957-3100.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30

•Village of Babylon Planning Board: 7:30 p.m. @ Village Hall, 153 W. Main St., Babylon. For additional meeting information, call 631669-1500; or email info@villageofbabylonny. gov, or visit the web site @https://www.villageofbabylonny.gov.

•Academy Charter School - Wyandanch Campus board meeting, 5:30 p.m. at 100 Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Uniondale. For additional information, call 516-591-3030.

LONG B EACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time

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

STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

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

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

NYU Langone Health is recruiting participants for an exciting new study exploring why and how some people with dementia experience a return of mental clarity as they approach the end of life.

NYU Langone Health is recruiting participants for an exciting new study exploring why and how some people with dementia experience a return of mental clarity as they approach the end of life.

These episodes are known as paradoxical lucidity. If you have a loved one suffering from advanced dementia, they may eligible for this study.

These episodes are known as paradoxical lucidity. If you have a loved one suffering from advanced dementia, they may eligible for this study.

If interested, please contact the Parnia Lab research team at 917-227-0932 or pl@nyulangone.org

If interested, please contact the Parnia Lab research team at 917-227-0932 or pl@nyulangone.org Paradoxical Lucidity in Severe Dementia:

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OFFICE ASSISTANT PT Flexible Hours. General Office Duties. Phones, Filing, Light Bookkeeping. $20$25/ Hour. Salary Commensurate With Experience. Email info@cousinsmetal.com Or Call 516-536-7755

OUTSIDE SALES

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

HomesHERALD

The fires in L.A. got us wondering

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Q. I, like many others, am upset about the terrible fires happening in California. We were discussing it the other day, and are wondering what your opinion is about how these fires spread so quickly, considering that we were also having high winds at the same time. Are our homes safe? Do we have better building regulations? Could the same thing happen to us that’s happening in California? What can we do to prevent this and what do you think California should do?

A. It can happen here. We must all listen, observe and learn from this tragedy to avoid repeating it in our own communities. I have often written about the beginnings of rules and regulations, which began after the great fire of London in 1666 and, in this country, after the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. It took many decades and many lives lost to recognize that building codes were needed, however.

Unfortunately, the typical response, historically, is to immediately express horror, but as time goes on, become complacent that something that bad couldn’t happen here. Yes, it can happen anywhere, and certainly in communities where the buildings are closer together. So we need to listen when we’re told that it could happen, and realize why fire could burn down any community where nature’s forces work against our best planning.

We have seen the devastation, and some of us realize the many elements that contribute to disaster, such as drought, high winds, finish materials that combust and lack of ability to escape, to name a few. Our building codes are focused on life safety and limiting fire spread. At the right temperature, nearly everything burns.

California has similar codes, but many buildings were constructed prior to the newest, more stringent codes and did not have safety requirements for one- or two-hour resistive surface materials, interior sprinklers or opening protective devices like special shutters that drop to enclose spaces and reduce fire spread. Our roofs, siding, fences and interior materials, just like California’s, can ignite readily when hot embers land on them.

Rebuilding in California will have to include interior sprinklers, non-combustible exterior materials and community training in what to take, when to evacuate and how to do so safely without blocking the path of emergency responders. I expect that we will see greater distances between dwellings and backyard structures, less vegetation, cannons mounted on utility poles to shoot fire-retardant and fire break walls that can lift out of the ground to separate buildings. There are products on the market to do all of these things, though most have been developed for flood prevention or highly flammable building conditions. More people will choose cement board siding that mimics everything from stone to wood siding to preserve styles that are consistent with the building shape, and metal, cement or ceramic tile roofs that will not combust if a hot ember or coat lands on it, and metal window frames. Remember to choose safe materials. Good luck!

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“

The Sopranos” revolutionized television entertainment when it made its debut on HBO in 1999, and continued through 2007. On the surface, it was an organized-crime story centered on a mob guy in New Jersey named Tony Soprano. Below the surface, however, “The Sopranos” explored new levels of the complexity of human nature.

Yes, Tony Soprano was a monster capable of vicious brutality. But he was also an uppermiddle-income family man living in suburbia with a wife, Carmela, and two children he truly loved. Sure, he had his goomba, but he genuinely cared about and provided for Carmela, and would say hardly a bad word about her. He was a doting father who would take his daughter, Meadow, to visit prospective college campuses while taking time out along the way to murder

opinions

‘Woke up this morning . . .’

someone who had crossed him. All in a day’s work.

Then there was Tony’s mother, who had also plotted to kill him. Underlying all these contradictions was the reality that this vaunted tough guy and super stud was in therapy with Dr. Melfi, who treated him for anxiety and depression.

TThere was also a supporting cast of rogues and characters that would cause anyone anxiety. Big Pussy was Tony’s loyal friend, who turned out to be an FBI informer — a “rat.” Tony killed him, and dumped his body off the family boat so he could swim with the fishes. Bobby Bocola was an overweight killer who could play Santa Claus, and got himself shot to death in Trainland, the model train store on Sunrise Highway in Lynbrook.

Uncle Junior was an aging mob leader and family patriarch who was capable of casual cruelty.

hree of the stars of ‘The Sopranos’ offer their takes on what made the show special.

Recently, my wife, Rosemary, and I went to the historic Patchogue Theater for the Performing Arts to see “In Conversation With the Sopranos,” with Steve Schirripa (Bobby Bocola), Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti) and Vincent Pastore (Big Pussy), who reminisced about their experiences on the show and answered questions from the capacity crowd. The audience was made up of real people — middle-income Long Island families, many of whom, no doubt, had moved out here from New York City. Listening to the questions they asked, you’d conclude that they must have watched and rewatched every “Sopranos” episode.

discussing how they got their parts and their opinions of the other actors. James Gandolfini — Tony Soprano — was the glue that made “The Sopranos” work so well, and was extremely generous and always supportive. Dominick Chianese (Uncle Junior) was an exceptional actor and a totally mild-mannered gentleman off screen. Tony Sirico, who played Paulie Walnuts, was a psycho on and off screen but a loyal friend.

CChristopher, Tony’s young protégé, killed his girlfriend, Adriana, when he found out that she, too, was an informer. Paulie Walnuts smothered his mother’s friend to death with a pillow when she caught him stealing her money.

Schirripa is a good friend and a truly great guy, totally down to earth. I’d met Imperioli and Pastore when they did a similar show with Steve about six years ago in Westbury. Both are very talented but regular guys.

The show was terrific, with the trio

Particularly funny was Pastore’s story about how a real-life mob-connected restaurant in the Bronx had proudly displayed his framed photo on the wall — but because the show depicted him as a “rat,” the picture was taken off the wall and destroyed. Their presentations were terrific, as was the question-and-answer session. They had a great rapport with the audience. After the show I met briefly with them, and told them “The Sopranos” would never grow old. Schirripa and I said we’d connect again soon. I’m looking forward to it.

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

Rubbing elbows with three great men

olumnists generally like to write about happy things, or at least not dwell on the subject of death. But over the past few weeks, three very significant people have died, and in some or many ways, I had direct contact with all of them. I refer to the late President Jimmy Carter, Chuck Dolan and Dick Parsons.

I don’t claim to have been a buddy of President Carter’s, but I had one interesting experience with him that is still fresh in my memory. During my years in the Assembly leadership, there was a custom that all potential Democratic candidates for president be introduced to the members of both houses of the Legislature. It was the job of an assigned member to escort the potential candidate around the Capitol for the meet-and-greet.

Apparently, nobody in the leadership offered to take then Governor Carter to

meet the elected members. Almost by default, I raised my hand and offered to do the escort work. My first task was to meet Carter at the Albany airport. At the stroke of noon, he arrived in the waiting area, looking to find his good shepherd. I greeted him and drove him to the Capitol so he could make his pitch for why New York should support his candidacy.

During the following three hours, Carter made his case for being the next president. Late that afternoon, we returned to the airport, and I wished him the best of luck. He wasn’t convinced that he could win over doubting Democrats, but he was determined to go to all of the key delegate-rich states to convince the doubters that he was the man for the job.

i t was the White House operator, and to my surprise, President Jimmy Carter was calling.

He told me that he would be making a number of public-works grants on Long Island, and asked if I had any preferences for a grantee. I recommended my hometown of Long Beach as the recipient of federal dollars — but I never heard from Carter again.

On a note closer to home, I was one of thousands of people who had a chance to know Charles Dolan, who created Cablevision and countless other innovations. He was a giant in the communications industry, but he was just plain Chuck in private.

I had the good fortune to be invited to his Christmas receptions and his famous July Fourth parties. On every occasion, he had the ability to make you feel like you were the only person at the event.

ing him the recognition. At all times, Charles, the titan of the industry, was just plain Chuck.

My last tribute is to the late Dick Parsons, a giant in so many businesses who was known for his great negotiating skills. I met him in the late 1960s, when he was a counsel to Gov. Nelson Rockefeller. He eventually went into the private sector, as chairman of the Dime Community Bank and Time Warner.

I still fondly remember a lunch appointment of ours on the afternoon of the O.J. Simpson trial verdict. We spent an hour discussing how Simpson could avoid a conviction, but at all times he was just Dick Parsons, a regular guy talking about a world of issues.

After decades of meeting great people, I very much miss those who were humble and gracious, never making a big deal of the power and influence they were lucky to possess. There aren’t many of those people left on this planet.

Two years later, the modest and humble Georgian was the president. On a February afternoon, our home phone rang, and the woman calling said she was the White House operator. Despite being skeptical, I took the call, and to my surprise it was Carter calling.

One August, Chuck invited my wife and daughters to the Hampton Classic, a major event for equine aficionados. Chuck had acquired a new camera and took pictures of my family, which I used on our family holiday card that year. I credited him as the photographer, and I got a call from him, thanking me for giv-

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

JERRY KREMER

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HERALD

eHerald editorial

Serve the constituents, not the parties

arlier this month, those who were elected and re-elected in November took their oaths of office.

Long after the last ballot is counted, and as soon as the oaths are administered, the most important chapter begins — the work of governing. And now that Gov. Kathy Hochul has delivered her State of the State address and the legislative session is underway, New York’s elected officials face an urgent challenge: to move beyond partisan rhetoric to deliver for the people who entrusted them with power. While the election season is often defined by fiery speeches and ideological divides, the responsibilities of governing require cooperation, compromise and a steadfast focus on serving the taxpayers.

Hochul laid out her vision for the year in her address last week, touching on issues that transcend party lines, including affordable housing, public safety, economic growth and climate adaptability.

These are not Democratic or Republican issues; they are New York issues, and they demand solutions from leaders on both sides of the aisle. Yet the immediate responses to Hochul’s proposals

letters

Peter King walks a tightrope with Trump

To the Editor:

Re Peter King’s column “Once again, there’s a New Yorker in the White House” (Jan. 9-15): King should be commended for his once again skilled sleight of hand when it comes to comments about President Donald Trump. King managed to call him an “overlord” while at the same time showering him with praise for his supposedly singlehanded eradication of MS-13 on Long Island.

King can certainly walk the tightrope very well. Lest we forget, Trump’s focus on the gang was a convenient opportunity for him to launch his narrative that all migrants are criminals, murderers or rapists. The FBI, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and, most important, Long Island law enforcement should be praised for their diligent, exhausting work on this scourge. And any child could see through Trump’s blatant politicization last year of Officer Jonathan Diller’s murder. Really, Peter.

showed how entrenched partisanship can overshadow a shared commitment to progress.

Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion, but some of the reactions to the State of the State were all too predictable, either filled with vitriol for Hochul’s policies or unquestioningly agreeing with everything she said.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of divisiveness. The political climate in New York, as in much of the country, is polarized, with both parties often more focused on scoring points than solving problems. But taxpayers deserve better. They expect their representatives to work together — less as Democrats and Republicans than as public servants dedicated to improving the quality of life in their communities.

Addressing housing affordability, for example, isn’t merely a policy discussion — it’s a pressing issue for families struggling to make ends meet. Likewise, public safety can’t be reduced to talking points; it affects the lives of residents of cities, towns and villages across the state. And economic growth isn’t about partisanship — it’s about creating jobs, supporting small businesses and helping communities thrive. These priori-

ties require collaboration, creativity and the willingness to engage in tough but constructive dialogue.

The stakes are high. Trust in government is fragile, and elected officials must demonstrate that they can deliver results. That means setting aside political differences to focus on what unites us: a shared desire for a prosperous, safe and equitable New York. It means finding common ground on key issues while respecting differing perspectives.

As the state’s leaders embark on this legislative session, they must remember that their duty is not to a political party, but to the people they represent. Voters have made it clear time and again that they don’t want endless gridlock or partisan posturing; they want solutions. They want leaders who prioritize progress over politics.

The work of governing is not glamorous, and most of the time it doesn’t make headlines. But it is the foundation of a functioning democracy. Now that the campaigns, the election and the swearing-in ceremonies are behind us, it’s time for the winners to roll up their sleeves, put the rhetoric aside and get to work. The future of our state — and the trust of its people — depend on it.

How amusing that King chooses to focus on Trump’s New York roots, his beginnings in Queens and King’s memory of a smiling Trump appreciating King’s New York accent. As if these things could overshadow our new president’s slew of bankruptcies, criminal indictments, multiple accusations of sexual abuse and documented perpetration of fraud on the public via Trump University and the Trump Foundation. King also notes that Trump has made friends with County Executive Bruce Blakeman, former Congressman Lee Zeldin and county Republican Party Chairman Joe Cairo — MAGA supporters all. Birds of a feather flock together.

Of course, King is afraid that he and all the other Long Island MAGA tools that Trump used while campaigning will be discarded in his junk heap of no-longer-useful sycophants now that the election is over.

A new path forward for Long Island transportation

Long Island is a place of endless potential, where communities with rich histories thrive in scenic landscapes. Our ability to sustain this prosperity is at risk, however, due to a glaring issue: outdated and insufficient transportation infrastructure. The status quo is no longer an option.

MichAeLLe soLAGes

Long Island’s transportation challenges stem from years of systemic neglect and a funding model that doesn’t prioritize our region’s needs. Currently, Long Island’s funding mechanism is lumped together with New York City and other counties under the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council. This arrangement puts Long Island at a disadvantage, forcing us to compete for resources with the complex

and nearly endless needs of the five boroughs and beyond.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Long Island’s share of transportation funding has dwindled to just 6 percent, despite a population that would make us the third-largest city in the nation. We are being asked to do more with less, and the cracks are starting to show — literally, in our roads and railways. To address this crisis, we must rethink how transportation funding and planning are handled.

that we know how to prioritize best.

With the leadership of such an organization, we would be able to build a Long Island where commuting is seamless, roads are safer and public transit options are robust. Projects such as modernizing the Long Island Rail Road, improving safety on major highways, and developing environmentally friendly transit systems would finally get the attention they deserve.

Aregion that is key to New York’s economy is treated as an afterthought.

The creation of a Nassau Suffolk Metropolitan Planning Organization is the logical next step. By establishing a dedicated MPO for Long Island, we can ensure that our transportation priorities are no longer overshadowed by those of neighboring regions. The new organization would allow us to access federal funding directly, giving us the autonomy to address local issues

Letters

King is genuflecting to Trump again in an attempt to garner favor for New York in light of Trump’s continuing belligerent rhetoric about blue states and big cities. Most importantly, Long Islanders need a repeal of the state and local tax write-off cap imposed as punishment by Trump during his first term. Former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito promised to get that done, but caved in the end. Maybe the recent visit to Mar-aLago by Reps. Andrew Garbarino, Nick Lalota, Mike Lawler and the rest was enough to satiate Trump’s need for sucking up from his MAGA crew, and we’ll see a lifting of the SALT cap.

New Yorkers don’t need to “work to find common ground with the president” to become great again. We are one of the most beautiful and economically stable states in the country, with resources and opportunities not available in any other part of the nation. Do we have problems to be addressed? Sure we do. But we’re still great.

ELIzABETH MuRPHY Franklin Square

Town hikes taxes, and mailers, ads keep coming

To the Editor:

Nassau Republican officials at every level shamelessly waste taxpayer money on mailers and op-ed pieces that are purely partisan attacks on Democrats, and they cite one-party rule in Albany, overlooking the stark reality that Nassau County, its cities, towns and most villag-

es, is currently ruled by a single-party GOP machine, as it has been for most of our lives.

We all suffer from the Nassau and Town of Hempstead GOP’s relentless crusade to stay in power by gerrymandering, doling out patronage and perks to friends and family in the town’s employ, spending millions of taxpayer dollars on partisan mailers and television ads while imposing double-digit tax increases and fees on beleaguered taxpayers.

While Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin gave generous raises to his inner circle, again, he and his Town Board socked every town homeowner with a double-digit tax increase, sneaking in a 12.1 percent tax hike in December and over $850,000 in raises this month without mentioning it in any of the town’s famous and constant mailers. And this year the town refuses to post the names of those receiving raises. What are they hiding?

The town’s devious attempt to hide this nepotistic, self-serving resolution to give themselves, their families and friends substantial raises epitomizes Clavin’s resolve to hide the truth from voters. Or is this just a way to avoid recusing themselves from voting on raises to relatives?

It’s time for this charade to end. Clavin must stop raising our taxes in years he isn’t running, and then sending out tax-paid mailers at $80,000 a pop, claiming he is freezing taxes in an election year.

DENENBERG Merrick

Smaller New York regions, like Ithaca, already benefit from their own MPOs despite having far smaller populations and economies than Long Island. Why should our region, home to more than 3 million people and a cornerstone of New York’s economy, continue to be treated as an afterthought?

This is not just about transportation — it’s about Long Island’s future. Without the infrastructure to support our

growing population and economy, we risk losing what makes this region special.

Thanks to the leadership of State Sen. Monica Martinez and Assemblyman Steve Stern, legislation to establish a Nassau Suffolk MPO has been introduced, and as the chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus, I’m proud that we’ve included this important legislation in our 2025 People’s Budget Framework. Now it’s up to us to make this vision a reality. Passing this legislation would mark a turning point, signaling that Long Island’s needs would no longer be ignored.

Let’s seize this opportunity to secure Long Island’s place as a leader in transportation innovation. By creating a Nassau Suffolk MPO, we can build a future in which our communities are connected, our economy is strengthened and our residents enjoy a better quality of life.

Michaelle Solages represents the 22nd Assembly District.

FrAMework by Tim Baker

In last week’s brief “Gillen sworn in as a Congresswoman,” a few of the people in the accompanying photograph were misidentified. Those in the photo included Owen Finegan, Myles

The view from the Nassau University Medical Center — East Meadow

DAvE

Finegan, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Chris Finegan, u .S. Rep. Laura Gillen, Austen Finegan and Laine Finegan. The date of Gillen’s swearing-in was Jan. 3.

A modern approach to traditional values

‘Character Education’ has a new name: Social and Emotional

Catholic education has always been unique because it is values-based, and places a high level of importance on personal and interpersonal skills. This difference has been realized through the expectation of certain kinds of conduct in a Catholic school that reflects a student’s self-respect, and respect for others. Responsibility, and accountability for one’s actions have always been part of the higher expectation in Catholic school.

After years of experimenting with the latest educational fads, schools of all types across the nation are recognizing that investing in the social and emotional management skills of students will have a greater effect on the trajectory of their lives. Public, private and Catholic schools have all shown greater interest in what is now known as Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). Catholic schools, because they have never lost sight of this, are further along in the development and implementation of SEL programs.

Catholic schools across the Diocese of Rockville Centre have maintained their focus on the ‘character education’ of students, even as more permissive educational models were being implemented elsewhere. While current-

ty and self-discipline. In doing so, character education has systematically, yet seamlessly, been an integral part of the educational experience of generations of students.

Today, the heightened interest in SEL makes it clear that Catholic schools were on the right track all along.

Why Social Emotional Learning matters

Social Emotional Learning is viewed as attentiveness to the whole child’s needs. It is comprised of five major components: selfawareness, self-management, decision-making, relationship skills and social awareness.

Self-Awareness: A self-aware student will recognize how his or her thoughts, emotions, actions, and values impact their behavior.

Students are encouraged to embrace a growth mindset, recognizing that change is possible, and that they have the ability to become selfsufficient and confident.

Self-Management: Students are taught to regulate their own thoughts, emotions, and actions to align with their values. Selfmanagement emphasizes motivation, impulse control, organizational skills, and goal-setting.

Learning

appropriate social behavior, and participation in group and collaborative activities.

Social Awareness: The ability to empathize including those with whom they well as those from different moral, ethical backgrounds. everyone who has attended Catholic attest, these five principles are tradia Catholic education. In fact, characteristics are often the most easily

distinguishable differences in the way a young man or woman ‘carries themselves’ in their daily interactions with others. They are the characteristics that we subconsciously recognize and silently attribute to the student being ‘a Catholic school kid’.

Faith-based rigorous academics are enhanced by innovative teaching practices that prepare students for the modern tech-based world in which we live.

Photo: