Islip Messenger Archive Feb. 15, 2024

FEBRUARY 19

HAPPY PRESIDENTS’ DAY Thursday, February 15, 2024 ~ Volume 69 ~ Issue Number 17 ~ $1.00 Credit - U.S House of Representatives

Suozzi Wins NY-03 Special, Wins Crucial Seat for Dems

By Matt Meduri

The political world is no stranger to shocks and characters, but few perhaps eclipse the shocking character of former Congressman George Santos (R-Queens). Shortly after winning the Nassaunorthern Queens-based Third Congressional District in 2022 - by a wide eight-point-margin for the open seat - he was found to have fabricated not only nearly every aspect of his career, but also nearly every aspect of his existence.

Including, but not limited to, lying about his college education, or lack thereof, his finances, his genealogy, his immediate family, and his criminal record in Brazil, Santos alienated himself from nearly the entire House Republican Caucus before his first term formally began. After facing mounting calls from House Republicans to resign, including Suffolk’s own Nick LaLota (R-Amityville), Santos remained adamant in his position in the House, maintained his innocence, and even filed paperwork to run for re-election in 2024.

Continued on page 3

Palumbo, Giglio, LaLota, Thiele Host Environmental Roundtable

By Matt Meduri

(Left to right) Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Senator Anthony Palumbo, Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, and Congressman Nick LaLota.

Long Island’s unique proximity and relationship with the surrounding natural environment is one of constant discussion, importance, and planning. A thin sandbar surrounded by water, Long Island relies on its environment to sustain itself economically, mainly via tourism and aquaculture.

However, the thin sandbar is regularly considered on borrowed time regarding coastal erosion, the sole-source aquifer, and land preservation, among other concerns. An island only so big that continues to grow in population makes practices like conservation and agriculture much more complicated than they once were.

Elected officials, environmental leaders, and community activists convened at Suffolk Community College’s Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center in Riverhead last week for their annual environmental roundtable.

Continued on page 10

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Suozzi Wins NY-03 Special, Wins Crucial Seat for Dems Santos survived two expulsion efforts. However, after the Select Subcommittee on Ethics, on which Suffolk’s own Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport) served, produced a damning report on his conduct, mostly his campaign finance and associated ethical lapses, the House overwhelmingly voted to expel him, an event that has only happened five times prior, with three expulsions occurring during the Civil War. Santos became the first Republican House member to be expelled in addition to being the first to be expelled without a formal criminal conviction.

Tuesday night’s special election pitted former Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove), who represented the district from 2017 to 2023, against Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip (R-Great Neck), an Ethiopian-born Jewish woman who served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) before moving to New York.

As of the initial results, with 93% of precincts reporting, Suozzi defeated Pilip with 54% of the vote to her 46% - an eight-point margin that is nearly identical to the one with which Santos won in 2022. In terms of raw votes, Suozzi took about 91,000 to Pilip’s 78,000 - a margin of roughly 13,000 votes.

Suozzi won both county portions in the district. The bulk of Nassau County is contained within the Third District and Suozzi won it 53%-47%, about a six-point margin. In the small sliver of Queens within the Third District, Suozzi won by a more comfortable 62%-38% margin, about twenty-four points.

The Nassau part of the district includes Bethpage, Farmingdale, Glen Cove, Great Neck, Hicksville, Jericho, Levittown, Manhasset, Massapequa Park, Mineola, Old Brookville, Oyster Bay Cove, Plainview, Port Washington, Roslyn, and Syosset. The Queens portion of the district includes Floral Park, Glen Oaks, Little Neck, Queens Village, and Whitestone.

“Despite all the attacks, despite all the lies about Tom Suozzi and ‘The Squad,’ about Tom Suozzi being the ‘godfather of the migrant crisis,’ about ‘Sanctuary Suozzi,’ despite the dirty tricks…we won,” said Suozzi to supporters at his rally in Woodbury. Suozzi began his speech after protestors holding Palestinian flags heckled him for supporting “genocide.”

Suozzi referenced the attacks by Pilip and the Nassau GOP, likening him to members of “The Squad,” a hard-left progressive faction of the Democratic Party operating in the House.

The election was heavily determined by the migrant crisis, gripping New York City and State in ways unlike any other parts of the country. The 2022 elections across New York were seen as a referendum on the Democratic machine, while the 2023 local elections were seen as a further rebuke of the party’s tarnished brand in a region that is ancestrally Republican.

However, the attacks did not stick to Suozzi, arguably one of the party’s most prominent name-brand candidates. A self-proclaimed moderate, Suozzi also had the massive advantage of name recognition.

Additionally, support for Israel became a close second to immigration, as this significantly Jewish district could have been swung by either candidate, with Pilip’s advantage lying in her heritage and IDF service, and Suozzi’s in his party’s typical courting of the Jewish voting bloc.

Pilip called Suozzi to concede the race and congratulate him on his win.

“We are fighters,” said Pilip to supporters at her rally in East Meadow. “Yes, we lost, but it doesn’t mean we are going to end here. We are not going to give up, we will bring common-sense government.”

Pilip was joined by Congressmen LaLota and Garbarino, as well as Congressman Anthony D’Esposito (R-Island Park) of the neighboring Fourth District, and Nassau GOP Chairman Joe Cairo.

Pilip currently serves as Nassau County Legislator from the Tenth District.

She ousted four-term incumbent Ellen Birnbaum (D-Great Neck) in 2021.

Suozzi’s win complicates Republicans’ already-complicated House picture.

A nominal majority of 222 seats after the 2022 elections will dwindle to 221 once Suozzi is seated and once other vacancies are filled. Such a thin majority doesn’t account for vacancies, absences, and moderate brands of politics that

might buck party leadership. The House failed to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas because of Majority Leader Steve Scalise’s (R, LA01) absence for cancer treatment. Only when Scalise returned to the House floor on Tuesday did Republicans have enough votes to impeach Mayorkas.

The House currently has three vacancies: CA-20, vacated by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R); OH-06, vacated by Bill Johnson (R); and NY-26, vacated by Brian Higgins (D). With these factored in, Republicans have a working majority of 219 seats, with 218 required for a party to form a majority outright.

The result last night is not something, in my view, that Democrats should celebrate too much,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson (R, LA-04). “There are a lot of factors there. That is in no way a bellwether of what’s going to happen this fall.”

Johnson, while praising Pilip’s tenacity, said that she battled a large disparity in name recognition between herself and Suozzi, while also having what he called a “short runway” with an eight-week campaign.

Johnson now has to maintain control of his caucus, while pleasing moderates, the party line, and the populist wings of the GOP. The fact that Santos just so happened to represent one of the most significant and competitive districts in the country made it a much larger headache for Republicans than if Santos hailed from a safely Republican one elsewhere. The GOP’s historic gains in New York in 2022, despite an underwhelming national environment, ran straight through the Third District, with blue-leaning workingclass communities across Nassau, including the Town of North Hempstead, and a small portion of northern Queens.

Former Congressman Peter King (R-Seaford) represented part of the area until he was redistricted to the Second District after the 2010 Census. Former Congressman Steve Israel (D-Huntington) then represented the new Third District, which stretches from Kings Park to Flushing until his retirement in 2017.

The open seat was then won by Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove). Twice re-elected, he forewent a fourth term in 2022 to primary Governor Kathy Hochul (D). He came in a distant third in the primary behind New York City progressive Jumaane Williams (D).

The two dynamics of the special election to replace Santos in this changing district in a changing state made the race fairly straightforward: the scandal penalty inflicted on the GOP and the semi-baked incumbency from a former representative who still has name recognition and is fresh in constituents’ memories.

Suozzi’s name recognition precedes him: he served as Mayor of Glen Cove from 1994 to 2001, then as Nassau County Executive from 2002 to 2009. After a hiatus from politics, he was elected to the open Third District in 2016 where he served until 2023. A more moderate, labor-backed Democrat, Suozzi has had no trouble outrunning the top of his party’s ticket in an area that continues to drift rightward.

Although there is no perfect science in trying to mathematically determine a point spread for elections, there is an imperfect science in understanding that scandals generally hurt the party who owns them. The scandal penalty, especially in the current era of hyperpartisanship, is more akin to the ghost of the predecessor hanging over the immediate future of the district or state, whether that’s desired or not.

While Santos is almost caricature-like in just how chronically dishonest he was, many argued that the benefit of the doubt could have been afforded to virtually anyone else. However, the Third District is a diverse district with a foreign-born population accounting for nearly one quarter of the district, as of 2021. Additionally, the district is the wealthiest in the state and fourth-wealthiest nationally, and Democrats have a near-100,000 voter registration advantage over Republicans.

All that considered, the scandal penalty goes much further. Voters who ordinarily would not have voted for a Republican took a chance on Santos just to have all their second thoughts proven right.

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Editorial Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Suozzi’s Win a Boost for Dems but NY Still on Shaky Political Footing The special election to replace former Congressman George Santos (R-Queens) was, from the beginning, a litmus test for the Democratic brand in New York, as well as a possible bellwether for both parties’ strengths in a crucial suburban battleground ahead of the marquee 2024 presidential election.

And the results were fairly inconclusive, at best.

This isn’t to say Democrats shouldn’t be happy, but they shouldn’t celebrate too early. Likewise, Republicans shouldn’t be thrilled that they lost, but they shouldn’t be too hard on themselves either.

The first hurdle that Republicans had to clear was the ghost of George Santos looming over Nassau County. It was unclear from the beginning whether the GOP would be able to jump such a hurdle, or if it was even possible at all. While special elections triggered by resignation are a dime a dozen, there’s usually a built-in penalty for the party who owns that scandalplagued former representative. In safe districts for either party, the underdog might have a bit of a scandal-influenced boost, but usually never enough to make a significant difference. Overperformance is usually chalked up to that and the next general election produces results more in line with the district’s partisan lean.

However, neither Santos nor NY-03 are typical factors in a special House election. Not only was Santos - allegedly, as he has not been convicted - a fraudster, he was one of almost comical proportions. Just when the apparent lies and fraud couldn’t get more numerous and outrageous, they absolutely did, in the most sick and twisted ways possible. That type of scandal-ridden individual makes for a tough hold for any party, but even in a safe district, the GOP probably could have weathered the storm.

That brings in the next part of the equation: NY-03 itself is one of the most competitive and consequential districts in the country. A key urbansuburban district, well-educated, highly diverse, and one of the wealthiest in the nation, the GOP winning a district like this is not for the faint of heart or politically shaky. That’s why Santos’ eight-point win the open seat was monumental, as not only did Santos help the GOP wrangle control of all of Long Island’s House seats for the first time since the 1990s, but he was also a cog in the entire machine that gave the GOP a mandate for the first time in a long time in the State of New York.

A near-rejection of the NYC-Albany machine presented by former Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-Shirley) against Governor Kathy Hochul (D), Santos’ win helped bring back Nassau County to its ancestral Republicanism.

Furthermore, the win proved that stateside politics was permeating into federal elections, a level of ticket-splitting not seen recently and one that puts New York on questionable ground for the Democrats going forward.

It just so happens that someone like Santos represented a place like NY03. Not only did voters give Santos and the GOP the benefit of the doubt, but they did so by a relatively wide margin, only for Santos to prove their possible second-guesses correct.

When someone like Tom Suozzi (D-Great Neck) is on the ballot in this part of New York, it’s about as name-brand Democratic as you can get. Not only is Suozzi a familiar face - he’s been involved in Nassau politics since the 1990s - but he’s a safe bet too, according to Democrats. A more self-proclaimed moderate, Suozzi doesn’t have similar baggage that progressives do. His bigger hurdle was making sure the Democratic brand was not too toxic to insulate even a political titan like himself from reclaiming his old office.

Which he did, but just by eight points. While only 7% of precincts remain unreported, Suozzi seems to be resting around that margin. A margin closer to fifteen points is probably what would have been expected of a well-known candidate like Suozzi in a county where registered Democrats outnumber registered Republicans by nearly 100,000.

In short, Democrats can take a victory lap in knowing that their brand is entirely dead on arrival in one of the bluest states in the nation, but should exercise caution in overplaying their hand. Suozzi’s victory is fairly typical to where it would be expected, but probably not as strong as it could have been for a candidate of his stature. Additionally, Democrats can celebrate one less Republican vote in the House but now put Suozzi and the New York Democratic brand back over the fire, as Suozzi’s moderate record might help him stave off a challenge in 2024, but might earn him the chagrin of the national party and House Democratic leadership. On the other hand, a more liberal voting record from Suozzi might continue to hurt the party brand in New York, but with name recognition like Suozzi’s, it’s hardly a zero-sum game. Suozzi could vote more liberal than his previous record and probably still survive a spirited challenge, with presidential down ballot votes coalescing to drag him over the finish line.

Republicans can find respite in knowing that they came within single digits of holding a blue-leaning district against a political titan in a special election.

Notoriously low-turnout, this special election was different, as the voters knew this was high-stakes in every way imaginable. Republicans can also take pride in a decent showing with a starkly low-name recognition candidate who only had eight weeks to throw together a campaign.

On the other hand, the GOP must continue to deal with the fallout of Santos and better vet their candidates, as this entire episode has likely cost them valuable crossover votes that are now scared away after being so meticulously courted.

One thing is for sure: special elections are just that, special. It’s difficult to extrapolate general election data and trends from a special election, so trying to administer this result to the 2024 result in favor of either party is a fool’s errand at this point.

Suozzi will have to put his money where his mouth is and work with both parties to help solve the migrant crisis, especially as it pertains to New York.

Polling numbers show Biden immensely unpopular, and a recent Siena College poll shows Trump leading Biden among New York Latino voters, a massive gap that not only signals the possibility of a red NY-03, but of a red New York, overall.

P.S I Love You Day’s 2024 Theme: Love is Meant to Be Given Love is meant to be given. It is meant to be shared with the people we care most about. We share our love in hundreds of ways, all personal to our friends and family. Words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, physical touch, and gift giving are all our beautiful ways of showing these special people how much we care.

Love is meant to be given. It is meant to be spread throughout our communities, to our neighbors, peers, coworkers, and acquaintances. Though our love may not be as personal as such with family and friends, it is shown through kindness and neighborly efforts.

Love is meant to be given. It is meant to be internalized and given to ourselves.

Love is treating yourself with grace, dignity, confidence, and patience. Self-love is arguably the most important love to be given. It is a personal love like no other.

Love is meant to be given. It is meant to grow with each individual we meet, and expressed through kindness, small gestures, donations, and philanthropic work. Love is meant to be an immediate gift given from one human being to the next to create a well-adjusted, triumphant, and pleasurable society.

Love is meant to be given. A simplified truth that is the 2024 P.S. I Love You Day’s theme encourages communities to spread love to the world.

P.S. I Love You Day, Inc, is a unique and special organization to the Long Island community. Based in our very own West Islip, and grown to be a nationally known nonprofit, P.S. I Love You Day was born through the idea that “tragedy should not be the force for togetherness; togetherness should be the force that ends tragedies.” On the second Friday of February, this wonderful day is celebrated with the grief of lost loved ones, and the appreciation and love for those who live around us, no matter who they are.

Every February, the day reminds us to not only spread love, but to internalize it as well. To believe in the idea that love can be a healing and lifesaving power in even the smallest of quantities. The truth about love is that it is often lost in the busy and distracted lives we lead. The smallest acts of love, ironically, are the most often left behind as we live day-to-day.

Telling our family that we love them as we leave the house or hang up the phone, sending a “how are you?’ text to our friends, opening the door for strangers, waving a quick ‘thank you’ as the car behind us lets us merge.

P.S. I Love You Day reminds us that love is given, and should be given, to every human being we encounter. Something we as a society should aspire to accomplish every chance we get. Something The Messenger vows to accomplish, and urges all our readers to join us in spreading love every chance we get.

Op-Ed Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

7

What Trump’s ‘Retribution’ Really Means

By Matt Kane

Many have discussed a second This was followed by an obviously Trump presidency revolving biased January 6 Select Committee, around “retribution.” Trump’s which was recently revealed to Republican primary opponents have operated in a less than ethical have claimed that Trump, if remanner. When you consider all of elected, would be consumed this, and too much more to mention, with “personal grievances” at the it is no surprise that they are expense of “real issues.” Across hammering the retribution talking the aisle, leftists have attempted to point, trying to convince America program the masses into believing that any instance of them finally that any form of “retribution” — being held accountable for their more on what they mean by that own conduct would undoubtedly later — would render President be a product of a dictatorial regime.

Trump a dictator. However, both The irony. narratives contain easily exposed Despite their attempts, the flaws. truth remains the same. The oath The media have been chomping of office mandates that a president at the bit to twist Trump’s words to “faithfully execute the office of advance their dictator narrative. In President of the United States, response, Trump has given smart and to the best of their ability, political answers in saying winning preserve, protect, and defend the the election, as well as success, Constitution of the United States.”

Photo Credit: Fulton County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office That oath is broad by design, as will be his retribution. There is no doubt that winning and undoing each president faces a unique set detrimental Biden policies, similar of challenges at the time of their to when he succeeded the Obama administration, would be one form reign and is entrusted by voters to be able to recognize, and determine of retribution. However, no amount of politically nuanced attacks by his how to properly address them. “fellow” Republicans, or mainstream leftist gaslighting, can alter reality.

Lincoln dealt with slavery and the Civil War, FDR Hitler and World War Attacks on Trump are real issues that need to be addressed.

II, Reagan the Cold War and the USSR, and the list goes on. There is now Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley were predictably the loudest Republican a new war that has begun inside the United States by those who have voices echoing the “real issues” talking point. DeSantis has said Trump weaponized their power. Getting answers from and delivering justice to becoming the nominee would make the election “about legal issues, those who have carried out these harmful acts on Trump, and by extension criminal trials, and January 6,” suggesting that those issues, as well as the United States, to prevent it from occurring further would not be a people who have been wrongly harmed as collateral damage for aligning distraction, nor would it be dictatorial. with Trump — such as January 6 prisoners who continue to rot in prison, or Trump would be just as obligated to attempt to fix this new problem, Douglass Mackey, who was sentenced to seven months in prison after the known as the weaponization of government, as other presidents were newly inaugurated illegitimate Biden regime raided his home for a meme to fix the problems of their time. In fact, Trump would be derelict in his he had posted five years prior — will never receive the justice they deserve. duty if he were to not address these issues at least in some way, as he has As for Haley, after continuing to be soundly defeated in every primary already stated he believes that the problem will continue in perpetuity if election, including in Nevada, where she came in a distant second to “None not addressed. of These Candidates,” she continues to point out all of the “dysfunction” How one defines retribution in political terms is ambiguous. So how that comes with Trump, essentially placing the blame on him for being the should we expect Trump to address this if he returns to office? Last year, he target of increasingly obvious political persecution. pulled no punches in stating, “I am your warrior, I am your justice, and for Both were unique in how they demonstrated their lack of understanding those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution.” Then, of the seriousness of our newly weaponized government. Trump’s asked by Glenn Beck if he would “lock people up,” Trump said, “The answer entrance into politics began as a mockery but has now progressed into is, you have no choice, because they’re doing it to us.” Further, during his impeachments, indictments, ballot removals, arrests, and God knows what post–New Hampshire victory speech, when referencing an embarrassing else to come between now and November. These are real issues, and Nikki Haley celebratory I-came-in-last address to her astroturfed Democrat any candidate who suggests that these things should be “left in the past” supporters, Trump said, “I don’t get angry. I get even.” Trump, ever the concedes that he either isn’t aware of the legitimacy of voter concerns believer in “an eye for an eye,” in a business sense, to prevent misdeeds about these issues or is willfully ignoring them for political gain. Either from continuing, seems to understand the long-term importance of how explanation is disqualifying. what has taken place must be rectified.

Republicans ignoring or not recognizing these attacks as real issues is If Trump fulfills his constitutional duty in this regard, he will not be wrong. But Democrats’ current and most brazenly hypocritical instance of using government as a weapon for payback, or “personal grievances,” as gaslighting to date is even more alarming. Leftist TV panels can frequently Biden has. Instead, he will be cleaning up the deeply rooted, decades-long be heard shrieking at the thought of Trump indicting his political opponents. corruption in government that now plagues America, which would certainly Yes, they somehow say this without ever noting that Biden and his cronies fall under “success,” as he regularly references. have already set the precedent for this. They almost deserve credit for No, Trump will not be going after “journalists” or “the media” or any getting through their TV segments with a straight face. But despite all their given “political opponent” who has criticized him, as the media suggest. theatre, it isn’t “retribution” they truly fear, but rather accountability, and Instead, he will, within the confines of the law and presidency, aim to perhaps with good reason. protect America from enemies seeking to destroy it, whether they be Joe Biden has presided over a blatant, unconstitutionally weaponized foreign or domestic, as all presidents are required to do. That is something government. His former (and likely current) boss, Barack Hussein all Americans, regardless of candidate preference or political affiliation, Obama, began this tactic of American politicking by allowing his FBI to should demand from their commander in chief. spy on an incoming president, which Hillary Clinton and her campaign Matt Kane graduated from Stony Brook University with a bachelor’s masterminded. Nancy Pelosi willfully failed to secure proper security degree in political science. His work has been posted by President measures in the lead up to January 6, prioritizing optics instead, which Trump and published by RealClearPolitics. Follow on Truth Social: @ has led to the unconstitutional denial of due process for many Americans. MattKane. X: @MattKaneUSA

8

PBA Matters Thursday, February 15, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

The National Police Recruitment Crisis

By Louis Civello

SUFFOLK COUNTY POLICE OFFICER EXAM APPLICATIONS

One of the greatest threats to public safety in our nation is the police recruitment and retention 45000 crisis. Many issues get more 41504 attention such as bail reform, DATE / PENSION TIER APPLICATIONS 40000 border security, and the fentanyl 06/08/1996 TIER 2 41504 crisis. Still, without a properly 35000 03/31/2011 TIER 5 31038 staffed and experienced police 31038 department, all these problems 06/13/2015 TIER 6 20667 become exponentially worse.

30000 06/15/2019 TIER 6 20043 In 1996, the Suffolk County 06/17/2023 TIER 6 13455 Police Officer Exam had 41,504 25000 applicants who sought an 20667 20043 opportunity to join Suffolk’s 20000 Finest. The most recent Suffolk County Police Exam had only 13455 15000 13,455 applicants – a stunning 67% drop. Diminishing the 10000 applicant pool by such a drastic amount will inevitably lead to fewer qualified applicants filling 5000 vacancies. If we keep trending in this direction, we will not be able 0 to fill our ranks at all.

06/08/1996 03/31/2011 06/13/2015 06/15/2019 06/17/2023 The SCPD is not alone in TIER 2 TIER 5 TIER 6 TIER 6 TIER 6 this dangerous trend. Suffolk and Nassau counties both were forced to extend their then head out of town. test application filing dates, giving applicants more time to sign up, hoping to Join the force and you won’t be able to work from home, but you will get to increase the pool. New York City has taken even more drastic measures. The work nights, weekends, and major holidays. No snow days here, but you will get NYPD completely waived its test fee and reduced physical standards, eliminating an unhealthy dose of psychological trauma over your career. the requirement that applicants complete a timed 1.5-mile run.

Does being a cop seem worth it yet?

Nationwide departments are lowering standards to increase the number Well, maybe the promise of a pension has you interested. Unfortunately, of candidates who qualify. In Los Angeles, they relaxed physical standards, that’s been stripped down too. After the mortgage crisis, while the rich got richer, made their written exam less difficult, and ended the process of disqualifying public workers were asked to make some difficult sacrifices; police officers candidates for having serious financial issues. Worse, the Detroit Police were no exception. New pension tiers were created requiring employees to Department has begun asking people to apply even if they have outstanding contribute more and receive less in retirement. The economy recovered but arrest warrants. In a time when policing has become increasingly complex, we shockingly, Albany never restored benefits to workers. should be raising the qualifications needed to become an officer. Instead, we’re Oh, did I mention in New York we have a nasty habit of letting cop killers go overlooking drug use, disregarding criminal history, and dumbing down written free like the NYS Parole Board just did with Anthony Bottom? tests. This will inevitably come at the cost of public safety.

The deck is increasingly stacked against us. Everything we do is now on Today, officers are required to exercise great skill and critical thinking when camera to be second-guessed. Split-second decisions are being dissected by it comes to de-escalation and diffusing volatile situations, all of which is now on people who have never been police officers using slowed-down frame-by-frame body camera for the world to second-guess. Officers who cannot meet pre-hire body-worn camera footage. Laws don’t protect us, and the media turns us into minimum requirements will have great difficulty in succeeding at these tasks. villains. Most police officers I know are telling their children to stay far, far away The job only gets harder once you’re hired. Failing as a police applicant can be from this profession. We’re headed towards a cliff and if we don’t hit the brakes, tough but failing once you’re on the job can have disastrous ramifications for we’re going to drive right off. the individual and our communities.

The United States Department of Justice recognizes the recruitment and There are multiple factors contributing to cratering interest in becoming a retention crisis and held a convening of law enforcement and community police officer. The job has always been a dangerous one. It’s not fear of risking leaders from around the country on April 18, 2023. As a result, the Department your life that is driving people away, it’s risking your life for a society that seems of Justice created a report titled “Recruitment and Retention for the Modern Law to despise you. Police have been demonized almost to the point of no return. Enforcement Agency”. The report acknowledged the need to review benefits Whereas police used to be treated like heroes, we’re now treated as punching and compensation incentives. Among the recommendations were eliminating bags. We’re told police are too militaristic, the thin blue line flag is a racist caps on pensions and overtime pay, creating retention or other bonuses, and symbol, and anyone who supports police is a “bootlicker”. Schools push an increasing time off to be attractive to the modern workforce. anti-police narrative portraying police officers as predators, seeking to victimize In New York, this can be implemented by rolling back pension tier reform and people of color. These characterizations, although untrue, carry over into pop giving our recruits the same benefits as the generations that came before them. culture, society at large, and worst of all, public policy.

Next, we need to restore local control. Local communities have the most at “Police Reform” has made it more likely than ever that a police officer may go stake when it comes to their police force. They are the ones who elect local DAs. to prison for doing his or her job. The New York State Attorney General’s Office Reviewing police conduct should be in their jurisdiction. It shouldn’t feel like a has entire units dedicated to investigating the police. Under former Governor witch hunt whenever a police officer is involved in a critical incident. Thirdly, craft Andrew Cuomo (D), local DAs were stripped of their duties regarding police laws that serve the people, not a woke agenda. We need to repeal bail reform critical incidents and that authority was given to the highly political AG’s office. so the justice system isn’t a revolving door, and we need to establish a National This lends itself to the unjust prosecution of police officers for political gain and Police Bill of Rights that would stop officers from indeed we’re seeing a NYC Sergeant prosecuted right now for defending his being treated as second-class citizens. Give officers own life. The AG has also been given purview over alleged police misconduct. protection against bogus complaints by restoring New It’s a system that has been weaponized against police by violent thugs and gang York’s 50-a law. members. As a police officer, a few unfounded or outright false complaints from Last and most importantly, stop caving to the antifelons will land you in front of an inquisition board. There, the officer is treated police agenda. Policing is an honorable profession, one like a criminal. State investigators will scrutinize everything you do. Body cam of service and sacrifice. Start treating law enforcement footage is reviewed frame by frame sometimes seeing what the human eye officers with due respect. Stop defining police by the cannot. You’re forced to answer questions and your right to have a union rep actions of a few and instead focus on the majority who present is suspended. Refuse to answer or say the wrong thing and you get do an outstanding job. If we choose instead to ignore fired, or worse indicted; criminal liability, civil liability, your face on the news, the problem, the woke crowd won’t have any police to and your family put through hell. try to defund.

Makes you want to sign up, right?

Now, consider pro-criminal laws like bail reform. A group of migrants (here Louis Civello is the President of the Suffolk County illegally) can viciously beat police officers, walk out of court, laugh about it, and Police Benevolent Association.

This Week Today Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

9

Thursday, February 15, 2024

National, State and Local Temperature Checks

By Matt Meduri

National

Credit - flickr.com by Steve Kwak

Last week’s Republican Nevada Caucuses delivered an expected win: Donald Trump (R-FL) overwhelmingly carried the state with 99% of the vote. Texas pastor and businessman Ryan Binkley was the only other Republican candidate on the ballot. He received just under 1% of the vote.

Due to recent changes by the state’s Democratic legislature, the caucus format of voting was scrapped in favor of the more direct and transparent primary process. Nevada Democrats held their primary on February 6, delivering President Joe Biden (DDE) a large win. State Republicans held an unofficial non-binding primary the same night, which saw the unique-to-Nevada “None of These Candidates” option trounce runner-up Nikki Haley (R-SC).

Candidates could not file for both the nonbinding primary and the official caucus. Trump sat out the primary to obtain delegates from last week’s caucus. He won all twenty-six of the state’s delegates.

Trump also won the U.S. Virgin Islands Republican Caucuses the same night, winning 75% of the vote and all four of the territory’s delegates.

Trump has swept the first four contests so far and has sixty-two delegates to Haley’s seventeen. February 24 will host the South Carolina Republican Primary, which will likely see the exit of native daughter Haley if she loses to Trump decisively.

The latest shakeup to the presidential race is the suspension of self-help author Marianne Williamson (D-CA) on the Democratic line. Williamson launched a long-shot bid in 2020 before suspending in January.

Williamson received a collective 11,703 popular votes across the initial contests and received no bound delegates. She dropped out on February 7, and has made no formal endorsement.

The Democratic contest now pits Biden against Congressman Dean Phillips, (D, MN-03), who represents a once-ironclad GOP suburban area of Minnesota’s Twin Cities. A long-shot bid overall, Phillips has called on his party to address the writing on the wall regarding Biden’s electability and consistent general election and state polling that show Trump ahead.

Biden has won the two initial contests so far, as well as a non-binding New Hampshire Primary in a write-in campaign. New Hampshire disagreed with DNC rules to replace the state as the first-in-the-nation primary, causing Biden not to register or campaign in the state. In Iowa, Democrats have been conducting mail-in voting for the caucuses since January 12, and will continue until Super Tuesday, March 5.

In other big general election news, the Senate landscape now becomes clearer as Republicans are more than poised to flip control of the upper chamber.

Democrats face an even more daunting map than they did in 2018, which featured the same cycle of Class 1 seats. While Democrats have effectively forfeited West Virginia with the retirement of popular Blue Dog Joe Manchin, they also have significant work in defending the open seat in Michigan, where the GOP has not

won a Senate race since 2000. However, Democratic woes continue to materialize as Republicans landed a star and unexpected recruit in one of the nation’s bluest states.

Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan (R) (pictured left) announced his candidacy for the open seat being vacated by Ben Cardin (D). Hogan earned national recognition for landing the biggest upset of the 2014 general election cycle in flipping the Maryland governor’s mansion. In what polling, pundits, and Democratic leaders showed as an election of non-concern, Hogan ended up winning the solidly blue state by just under four points.

It’s important to note that gubernatorial elections often deliver different results from a state’s typical partisan lean at the federal level. Local issues, candidate quality, and stateside trends tend to outpace national moods and hot-button issues. However, for reference Maryland backed Barack Obama (D-IL) by twenty-six points just two years prior to Hogan’s upset. Hillary Clinton would win the state by a commanding thirty-three-point margin, followed by a near-identical margin by Biden in 2020.

Hogan was re-elected governor in 2018 by a comfortable twelve-point margin. His fiscal conservatism and more socially moderate-to-liberal policies made him a decent fit for Maryland and allowed him to become the first Republican governor of Maryland to win re-election since 1954 and the second overall in the state’s history.

Hogan was term-limited in 2022, and with Republicans nominating hardline conservative Dan Cox, the state flipped to Wes Moore (D) by a thirtytwo-point margin.

Hogan’s announcement for Senate does not mean he is a favorite to flip it, rather he is likely being run as a “sacrificial lamb” with an outside chance of scoring a historic upset.

Maryland has not elected a Republican to the U.S. Senate since 1980; the Class 1 seat - this seat - has not been won by a Republican since 1970. Additionally, the last close Maryland Senate race was in 2006, in which Senator Cardin won by just over ten points.

Senate races also vary from gubernatorial races in that they are more than likely to align with their federal election results, especially in an era of decreased ticket-splitting. However, Hogan can receive the benefit of the doubt in that he earned enough split votes in a deep blue state to serve two terms as governor. To assume a figure like Hogan, one who has been staunchly critical of Trump, can’t attract a decent number of Democrats negates the “wins above replacement” model that party strategists often use in determining their best electoral success with the best possible candidate over any generic replacement.

Again, we don’t expect Hogan to win the race, but his job is to get Democrats to spend money in the last state they thought they would: Maryland. Democrats sparing no expense here means taking the heat off of the slim Republican targets they have and allows Republicans improved chances at flipping additional seats. Democrats giving the ultra-blue state the benefit of the doubt means risking a humiliating upset and forfeiting another seat in an already-slim majority in the Senate.

Hogan’s entrance is by far one of the most significant developments of the 2024 election cycle and the race will almost certainly become more observably competitive throughout the next nine months.

State In addition to her controversial proposed cuts to school districts in her annual state budget, Governor Kathy Hochul (D) has proposed yet another controversial cut.

Governor Hochul has proposed a year-over-year decline to the state’s addiction treatment strategy.

According to reports, the strategy would receive an increase of 0.8% next year, but decline by 6.6%, or roughly $66 million, by 2028.

The move comes at a time when annual overdose deaths, especially in light of the fentanyl crisis, have continued to beat all-time records year after year since 2019.

Hochul’s proposal would offset the reduced addiction treatment costs with opioid settlement funds set to be paid to the state by large pharmaceutical producers and distributions through 2040. A 2021 state law prohibits those settlement funds from being used to replace other funds for combatting the state’s addiction and substance abuse problems.

Assemblyman Phil Steck (D-Loudonville), of the 110th District, chairs the Assembly Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

“The main thing that’s been going on in the governor’s budget overall is the use of the opioid settlements as the sole funder of increases of program funding in this area. That is not its purpose,” said Steck.

The Governor’s budget continues to receive criticism and will be debated by the legislature in hopes of achieving a passage by April 1.

Local Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) led his New York Republican colleagues in sending letters to President Biden (D-DE), Governor Hochul (D), and New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) opposing tax dollars going to perpetuating the migrant crisis.

“Instead of throwing more of our tax dollars at the migrant crisis, the Governor and Mayor Adams must seriously address the issue by fixing the underlying issues related to the migrant crisis,” said LaLota. “We can start by reversing anti-law and order sanctuary policies and not giving undocumented migrants taxpayer-funded credit cards. Not addressing the underlying issues will not fix the problem and has the potential to exacerbate it. They need to stop gaslighting New Yorkers and fix their bad policies that created this crisis.”

LaLota, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, outlined several steps the three officeholders can take without congressional approval: End Catch and Release; reinstate Remain in Mexico; enter into Asylum Cooperative Agreements; end parole abuses; Detain inadmissible aliens; use expedited removal; reign in taxpayer funded benefits for illegal aliens; issue a proclamation to suspend or restrict entry; resume construction of the border wall; and stop repositioning border agents away from the border.

All nine other Republican members of the New York delegation, including Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport), signed the letters in support.

10

News Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Continued from front cover

Palumbo, Giglio, LaLota, Thiele Host Environmental Roundtable Credit - DejaVu Designs on Freepik

The roundtable was started roughly thirty years ago by then-Senator Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson). The yearly tradition continued after LaValle’s 2020 retirement by his successor, Senator Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk).

“Incredible legislation has come out of this over the years,” Palumbo told The Messenger. “When Senator LaValle retired and I was running for his open seat, he asked me to keep these meetings going. I have been to many of them and it’s developed significantly over the years.”

Palumbo listed initiatives that were products of these meetings, including, but not limited to, the Community Preservation Fund, the Bond Act, the Pine Barrens Act, and the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. “Like any other piece of legislation, it starts with a good idea,” says Palumbo, referencing the workshopping this yearly meeting can produce. One such idea discussed at last week’s forum was the regulation of the horseshoe crab fishing industry, for which horseshoe crabs are harvested to be used primarily as eel bait. Another entails toxins and chemicals in cosmetic products, which can harm animals upon whom the products are tested or the people who use them.

“It’s everybody in,” said Palumbo.

“And that’s really the important part of this type of a forum is that you bring in all the stakeholders. In 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the Environmental Bond Act, equipping our state with a historic $4.2 billion to enhance environmental conservation and reduce the state’s carbon emissions.

As lawmakers, we bear the responsibility to ensure that these funds are spent wisely and as effectively as possible.

Our conversations today help guide our efforts as we work toward achieving these important goals.”

Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) of the First District headlined the meeting, alongside Senator Palumbo, Assemblyman Fred Thiele (D-Sag Harbor), and Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R-Baiting Hollow).

“Being pro-environment on Long Island is a bipartisan issue to ensure that our Island and our environment are not just great for us to utilize for our self-enjoyment, our preservation, or our economic goals, but for generations to come,” said LaLota. “It’s part of being a conservative. If you’re a conservative, you have to think long term, or that our environment ought to be a bigger part of our platform. It’s important that we’re all working together on this. This dynamic doesn’t exist at a bipartisan level throughout the rest of the nation.

We’re proud to have it exist here. I’m all in.”

LaLota discussed some of his initiatives he has sponsored during his first term in Washington.

“The first piece of legislation I submitted was the Plum Island Preservation Act. We should codify that,” said LaLota. “We should enshrine in federal law that, for perpetuity, we preserve Plum Island as an ecological preserve.”

LaLota also mentioned his bipartisan work with Congressman Joe Courtney (D, CT-02) in their efforts to reauthorize the Long Island Sound Program through 2028. The program was created in 1985 to study and address the environmental problems affecting the Sound and its associated bodies of water, including the watershed based in Canada.

LaLota and Courtney co-chair the Long Island Sound Caucus. LaLota also sits on the Climate Solutions Caucus, cochaired by Suffolk’s own Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport).

Beth Fiteni, a committee member of the Long Island Organics Council, mentioned that according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, there are “179 large institutions that are generating more than two tons of food scraps per week.”

“It looks like the food scraps are not going to any place on Long Island because there are no composting facilities or anaerobic digesters, so the food scraps are going off Long Island being trucked, like most of our garbage is, aside from the incinerators,” said Fiteni. “So, when it comes to anaerobic digestion, there is, I think, a place for it. We just have to be careful of the PFAS and the digestate, but we definitely would like to see more composting facilities on Long Island. We can put the nutrients right back into our soil for the farms here on Long Island, and it’s an economic opportunity as well for new businesses.”

Fiteni also says that the rollout of the program would need to occur on the township level, adding that the Council worked with the Town of Riverhead to organize food scrap drop-off sites.

“We just need to push the towns; they’re the responsible parties, but they need to be pushed to take that responsibility on. We need money for education and outreach.”

Joyce Novak, Executive Director for the Peconic National Estuary Program, thanked the elected officials for their work in preserving and fighting for the health of the region, but remarked that coastal erosion defense can only go so far past sand replenishment.

“It’s really important that areas of Long Island are supported for comprehensive resilience plans,” said Novak. “Resilience is unsustainable by just continuing to act in this defensive way. We have to play offense and look to the future, and we’ll point out that the East End does have underserved communities. They’re often overshadowed by the affluence, but they’re there, and I think we all need to make a more concentrated effort in that.”

Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker (D-Southampton) reverberated these comments, and even asked for temporary measures ahead of the summer season.

“I just wanted to implore and urge anything that could be done in terms of a temporary measure, in terms of sand placement, until that beach builds up as beaches usually do during the summer season,” said Welker. “So, temporary placement of sand along that mileand-a-half stretch of beach [Ditch Plains, Montauk] would be very much appreciated.”

Rob Carpenter, Administrative Director for the Long Island Farm Bureau, renewed his budget request for deer fencing and advocated for farmland prioritization in the five eastern towns.

“I am grateful for the insightful discussions at this year’s Environmental Roundtable hosted by Senator Palumbo,” said Assemblyman Thiele.

“Collaborating with dedicated leaders is crucial for shaping our legislative agenda to protect Long Island’s environment.

In Albany, I’m committed to securing state funding for initiatives that assist in essential environmental protection and programming. Conservation is key to maintaining our unique quality of life here on the East End and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”

“Our environment is the life blood of the East End, and our success depends on preserving that environment for today, and the future,” said Assemblywoman Giglio. “Working farms, active fisheries, scenic vistas, and clean water are the foundation upon which our community success is based. I thank each of you for continuing to support that which is so precious to our families, and I thank my fellow elected officials for their efforts to ensure these resources receive the funding they deserve. Our unwavering united support for the environment demonstrates the importance of this cause, and I pledge to continue that support, now and in the future.”

“Addressing climate change and our many environmental concerns is crucial to helping preserve our beautiful state for future generations to enjoy,” said Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson Station).

“Through conversations at Senator Palumbo’s annual Environmental Roundtable event, we can implement plans and discuss ideas to address ways to protect our waterways and ensure clean drinking water and beaches for people to enjoy.

I want to thank Senator Palumbo for organizing this important event and my colleagues for their participation and great efforts toward protecting our natural resource.”

Other elected officials in attendance were Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), Southold Town Supervisor Al Krupski (D-Cutchogue), Sagaponack Mayor William Tillotson, Westhampton Beach Mayor Ralph Urban, representatives for Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (R-Rocky Point) and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches).

Other community leaders and activists in attendance include President of Suffolk County Community College Edward T. Bonahue, Sid Bail of the Wading River Civic Association, George Hoffman of the Setauket Harbor Task Force, and Adrienne Esposito and Maureen Dolan Murphy of the Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

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School Highlights

12

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Sachem Central School District Recognizes Top Musicians During the Sachem Central School District Board of Education meeting on February 7, the district’s top musicians were recognized for their participation in recent music festivals and conferences, including the Long Island Strings Festival Association, the New York State Council of Administrators of Education AllCounty Festival, and the New York State School Music Association All-State Conference.

Chairperson for Secondary Music David Jaklitsch proudly presented the students to the board and congratulated them on their hard work and accomplishments.

P.S. I Love You Day in Three Village Students and staff turned the Three Village Central School District purple on February 9, to celebrate P.S. I Love You Day. The annual event encourages communities to foster an environment where everyone feels welcome, loved, and supported. It also seeks to end the stigma surrounding mental health. This year’s theme was “Love is Meant to be Given.”

Buildings across the district were decorated and students wore purple as a visual display of support for P.S. I Love You Day. This year, P.J. Gelinas Junior High School and Murphy Junior High School coordinated their efforts to celebrate. Art teachers Ms. Cappiello and Ms. Maritato at Gelinas worked

with their students to create a backdrop inspired by the P.S. I Love You Day theme. Students were excited to take photos in front of it.

Several elementary schools held spirit weeks to kick off the festivities and students participated in kindness activities throughout the week.

At W.S. Mount Elementary School, the student government wrote kind messages on a valentine to be displayed in the building. Staff greeted students on P.S. I Love You Day with more positive messages on the sidewalks outside.

Students were encouraged to spread the messaging of P.S. I Love You Day throughout the entire year.

School Highlights Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Hauppauge Middle School Presents ‘Seussical the Musical Jr.’ Hauppauge Middle School proudly presented their production of “Seussical the Musical, Jr.” in the school’s auditorium on January 26-27.

“Seussical the Musical, Jr.” is a fast-paced and fun journey through the lives of well-known Dr. Seuss characters such as Horton the elephant, JoJo the Who, and the Cat in the Hat, along with many other friends. The middle school actors spanned all grades and worked incredibly hard through months of rehearsals to bring the beloved characters to life.

The show was directed by Hauppauge Middle School clerical Elise Siegel.

“The actors worked so hard to bring everyone’s favorite Dr. Seuss stories to life through song and dance,” said Siegel. “They are a very talented group of students.”

The students put on a special preview show for their fifth-grade peers ahead of their debut date and were graciously met with laughter, admiration, and applause.

Then, on January 26-27, the auditorium was packed with family and friends, cheering the students on. The district congratulates the students on their exceptional performances and thanks the staff and parents who were instrumental in assembling the production.

Motivational Speaker Lloyd Bachrach Inspires Sylvan Avenue Motivational speaker Lloyd Bachrach visited Sylvan Avenue Elementary School in the Bayport-Blue Point School District to deliver his uplifting, “Yes, You Can!” program to the third, fourth and fifth grade classes.

Lloyd was born with a congenital bone deficiency which left his legs unusually small.

Due to the severity of his disability, doctors suggested there would be little or no hope for a normal life for Lloyd. Then, in high school and college, Lloyd became a champion gymnast, competing against able-bodied athletes.

Among his many accomplishments, in 1996, he competed on the USA Paralympic sit volleyball squad. Now, Lloyd travels the country delivering his message of positivity and hope.

The assembly at Sylvan Avenue centered around overcoming adversity to succeed.

Lloyd’s positive message inspired and motivated the elementary students to reach their ultimate potential and go for their dreams no matter what their circumstance.

13

History

14

Thursday, February 15, 2024

America the Beautiful: How History Shapes our Electorate New Mexico - The Land of Enchantment

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

This is the fifty-first of a series column that will look at the history of all 50 States, all 5 territories, and the Capital and the influence history has on our current political environments. The aim of this column is to capture that our country is not just red or blue, but rather many shades in between. Each Lower 48 state’s current political landscape can be traced back to its early settlement and geography and its particular involvement in the Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, and the Civil Rights Era.

By Matt Meduri One of the most uniquely diverse states, New Mexico has lived most of its history as a highly-relevant battleground.

Early History - A Rapacious Start The Spanish were the first Europeans to explore New Mexico in 1540 on a hunt for gold and silver.

Instead, they found many Native American tribes with whom they would clash for hundreds of years. The first Spanish settlement was established at Santa Fe in 1610, making it the oldest state capital in the country.

Since New Mexico was an isolated colony surrounded by native tribes, settlers were forced to share the land with the natives and navigate the complex social and political structures. On the other hand, the Spanish governors were ruthless in their exploitation of the Native Americans and the goods New Mexico provided.

The 1680 Pueblo Revolt is the most successful Native American uprising against colonists in North America. A coalition of tribes led the revolt against the Spaniards, killing over 420 of them. The revolt led the Spanish to abandon New Mexico for El Paso, Texas, where they would stay for over ten years until they were able to ally with the Pueblo against enemy tribes, such as the Navajo.

Under control of New Spain, New Mexico was caught squarely in the transitions of power during the period of Mexican independence. As a territory, New Mexico had certain privileges and separations from the federal government of Mexico after the latter’s independence from Spain in 1821. The Santa Fe Trail allowed trade and travel to the region, growing its population. The Mexican-American War saw native tribes and settlers of the area vehemently oppose U.S. occupation. Most of New Mexico would become U.S. territory after the war, followed by the rest of the land in 1853 via the Gadsden Purchase.

During the Civil War, the question of slavery was open as New Mexico was a territory at the time. Mexican legal tradition prohibited slavery, although Native Americans were still enslaved in the area. Since New Mexico was slated to be a slave state pursuant to the Compromise of 1850, the state actually played host to a Civil War battle.

The result was a strategic Union victory that prevented the Confederacy from capturing the Western states.

After much debate on the state’s compatibility with American culture, New Mexico became the fortyseventh state on January 6, 1912.

Twentieth Century Politics WWII’s Most Significant Player New Mexico Hispanics were treated as second-class citizens from the late 1800s into the early 1900s. Called “Nuevomexicanos,” this class of people were excluded from certain aspects of society. The discrimination led them to adopt a “Spanish American” identity to pledge their allegiance to the U.S. and distinguish themselves from Mexicans. Both World Wars allowed the Nuevomexicanos ample opportunity to demonstrate their American allegiance, signing up for the war effort for service to their country and their outward displays of patriotism. However, for a myriad of reasons, New Mexico would prove to easily be the most significant state in the nation during World War II. The war effort focused on New Mexico led the state to have the largest proportionate loss of servicemen than any other state during World War II. The state’s rapid modernization and immigration during the war effort forever changed the state’s economy and culture. The regular economic booster shot that wars typically provide was especially good to New Mexico, creating jobs and high wages.

New Mexico also famously served as the test site for the world’s first atomic bomb. Commissioned

by President Franklin Roosevelt (D-NY) under the Manhattan Project, scientists were tasked with the ultimate nuclear arms race. At the Los Alamos Research Center, the bomb was developed and tested, eventually leading to a swift end to WWII. Finally, New Mexico also had outsized influence in WWII from the Navajo Code Talkers. Due to forced assimilation, the Navajo language became sparsely spoken. With the American government looking for an indecipherable language to transmit messages, more than 400 Navajo Code Talkers proved valuable players during the war, and their code was never broken.

The end of WWII signaled massive changes for New Mexico. The federal government claimed millions of acres of land to build military bases, missile ranges, testing facilities, and research and development centers. Mass immigration consisted of people looking for economic opportunity, farmers of humidarea crops, oil workers, artists, and even tuberculosis patients seeking the dry, healing air all made New Mexico a new destination, but it also lost some of its unique cultural identifiers in the process.

New Mexico first participated in the 1912 election, voting for Woodrow Wilson (D-NJ), in what is considered the most politically diverse election in U.S. history.

The eastern border of New Mexico shared cultural similarities to the Southern Democrat machine, earning the nickname “Little Texas.” This region would allow Democrats to carry the state in its first two elections, as Republicans continued to spar over the “Old Guard” and the Theodore Roosevelt progressivism.

Wilson’s unpopularity due to foreign policy and skyrocketing inflation, as well as a re-unified GOP, led Warren Harding (R-OH) to be the first Republican to carry New Mexico in 1920. The GOP would win New Mexico in all three 1920s elections, culminating in a decisive eighteen-point margin for Herbert Hoover (RCA) in 1928. Al Smith’s (D-NY) Catholicism challenged the Democratic status quo, allowing Hoover to sweep the Little Texas region. Additionally, the Catholic heritage of New Mexico’s Hispanic population made it a nice fit for the GOP. FDR would cruise to victory in 1932, delivering the best presidential performance in the state to date.

New Mexico would back FDR in all four of his terms, as well as Harry Truman (D-MO) in 1948. 1952 would see the state back Dwight Eisenhower (R-KS), as well as the start of one of the longest bellwether county streaks in the nation: Valencia County. The Albuquerque-area county would back the winner of each election from 1952 until 2020.

As Catholic and Hispanic voting power waned in the state after WWII, New Mexico backed John F. Kennedy (D-MA) in 1960, followed by Lyndon Johnson (D-TX) in 1964. Here, New Mexico would develop a profile as a swing state, regularly flipping between both parties until the early 2000s. New Mexico has also been a reliable bellwether from statehood; since 1912, New Mexico has only backed the loser in three elections: 1976 (Carter), 2000 (Gore), and 2016 (Hillary Clinton).

1980 saw the landslide election of Ronald Reagan (R-CA), making Jimmy Carter (D-GA) the only Democrat to have been elected president without ever winning New Mexico.

In 1992, Bill Clinton (D-AR) would become the first Democrat to win New Mexico since Lyndon Johsnon in 1964. The watershed election would mark a shift in the state’s politics, as it would transition from a perennial swing state to a blueleaning battleground. New Mexico had the country’s thinnest raw vote margin in 2000, with Al Gore (D-TN) winning the state by just 366 votes out of more than 500,000 cast. George Bush (R-TX) is the last Republican to have won New Mexico, carrying it narrowly in 2004, credited to his support among Hispanic voters.

Geography - The Land of Enchantment New Mexico’s geography can be summed up by its three Congressional districts: 1. CD-01: Home to the state’s largest city, Albuquerque, and rural outlying areas. A moderately Democratic district, this is one that could be more competitive if the GOP can significantly swing Hispanic voters.

2. CD-02: Encompassing the entire southern border of the state and about two-thirds of the western border, this district is one of the most competitive nationwide. Containing parts of Albuquerque, as well as Las Cruces and Hobbs, the district actually only has a few blue-leaning counties. The district also contains part of the Little Texas region, now a staunchly Republican part of the state. Last decade’s iteration of this district was decently Republican, but Democrats scored an upset here in 2018. The GOP flipped it back in 2020, only for the Democratic gerrymander to deliver this seat back to the Democrats in 2022. This seat is one of the most competitive going into the 2024 cycle.

3. CD-03: A sprawling district across the northern border of the state and two-thirds of the state’s eastern border with Texas. Home to the bulk of Indian reservations, including the Navajo Nation, Santa Fe, Clovis, Farmington, and Taos. The northern counties are staunchly Democratic, while the eastern counties, former Little Texas counties, are solidly Republican.

Safely Democratic.

Current Political Leanings - An Open Question On paper, New Mexico should be a Republican state: mostly rural, religious, and industrious. The state ranks fifth in oil production and second in natural gas production nationwide.

The sizable Catholic population makes for more socially conservative values that could outpace the liberal lean of the state’s urban centers. However, identity politics concerning Native Americans and Hispanic voters have kept New Mexico just out of arm’s reach for the GOP. The GOP has found success on the state level, last governing the state in 2019.

Democrats currently control both Senate seats, with Republicans last having won one in 2002 and last having held both simultaneously in 1983.

Democrats have effective locks on the First and Third Districts, with the competitive Second currently held by Gabe Vasquez (D).

Republicans have not held both chambers of the state legislature simultaneously since 1929.

Going forward, if the GOP continues to court Hispanic voters, it could absolutely turn the state in their direction. An off-the-radar Senate race in 2020 shocked observers when the underfunded Republican came nearly within five points of winning the seat, owed to better-than-expected performance

by Donald Trump (R-FL) among Latinos. The intrinsic libertarian character of this state and high number of Independents regularly dictates who wins here.

As one of the nation’s poorer states, inflation and the border crisis could also be defining issues in the 2024 race and beyond.

New Mexico’s uniquely diverse electorate will certainly keep it relevant going forward.

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15

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Town Recognizes P.S. I Love You Day February 9, 2024, marks the fourteenth year of P.S. I Love You Day. This year’s theme is “Love is Meant to be Given,” a reminder to spread love to the world, to others and most importantly, to ourselves.

P.S. I Love You Day is held every second Friday of February. Created by the DiPalma family of West Islip after losing a loved one to suicide, the family’s mission is to bring awareness to the importance of mental health and decrease bullying.

“We strongly believe that by educating students earlier about mental health, the conversation will be easier to discuss, and students will be able to recognize when they or others around them need help,” according to the P.S. I Love You website. “On the second Friday of every February, we encourage communities to wear purple in order to foster kindness and a welcoming environment and educate others that mental health is just as important as physical health.”

“Mental health is health. It is as important as our physical well-being and is an essential part of our quality of life,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip). “The Town of Islip has many resources available, such as skilled mental health professionals at our YES Mental Health Clinic in Brentwood and fitness programs run through Department of Parks and Recreation, all of which can aid in improving the mind body connection.”

On P.S. I Love You Day, we ask everyone to wear purple to stand up against bullying, help end depression, and ultimately prevent suicide. It is our hope that as we walk around our communities, schools, and workplaces, we hear messages of positivity that make us all feel special, loved, and reminded that we are never alone.

Community Embraces P.S. I Love You Day Legislator Steven J. Flotteron (R-Brightwaters) helped mark the 14th Anniversary of P.S. I Love You Day on February 9 at Beach Street Middle School, Udall Middle School, Robert Moses Middle School, Islip High School, and West Islip High School.

Co-founders Brooke and Jamie DiPalma established P.S. I Love You Day, a non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating the stigma around mental health following the suicide of their father. Their mission is to instill hope for those affected by mental illness, fostering a supportive environment and a community where everyone feels welcomed, loved, and supported.

P.S. I Love You Day is celebrated on the second Friday of February each year. This year’s theme is “Love is Meant to be Given”. We encourage all to spread love to the world, others and most importantly, yourself.

This year’s stats are that they reached 330,000 people in 33 states across the US and Canada with more than 650 communities supporting the cause.

Brooke graduated from West Islip High School ten years ago where she was embraced by the administration and staff after her tragedy. She and her sister turned a tragic experience into a positive effort to help others going through similar experiences.

As they have done every year to help spread the word, 75 flags hung along Udall and Higbie, north of the High School and they sold more than 500 purple shirts. Brooke, who is a Financial Journalist, took the week off from work to speak on the cause at more than 20 schools this year. Her sister, Jamie, is a teacher in Sachem and couldn’t tour this year. It has been half of Brooke’s life since she lost her dad fourteen years ago. She carries PS I love you throughout every chapter of her life.

Town Employees Emphasize Women’s Cardiac Health Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip) and Islip Town employees wore red for the Town’s annual “Go Red for Women” campaign Friday, during February, American Heart Month.

Personnel from departments Town-wide contributed $5 each, to be donated to cardiac health and research programs at neighboring hospitals, Good Samaritan University Hospital and South Shore University Hospital.

“Symptoms of a cardiac event vary between men and women,” said Supervisor Carpenter.

“Today, the Town is shining a spotlight on women making a commitment to take charge of their own heart health and the health of those they love. We are grateful to our Town of Islip employees, who continue to embrace each and every opportunity to raise awareness, whether it be for breast cancer awareness, substance abuse treatment, or our wonderful partnership with the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Today, hundreds of

dollars were raised for cardiac health and research, and we are truly appreciative,” said the Supervisor.

Cardiovascular disease is the number-one killer of women, causing one in three deaths each

year. Most cardiovascular diseases can still be prevented with education and healthy lifestyle changes, according to the American Heart Association.

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Guest Column

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His Version Of History: The Putin Interview

By Walter Samuel | AMAC Exclusive Future generations of historians will owe Tucker Carlson a debt of thanks, as his interview with Vladimir Putin is far more of a historical primary source than a political document, and one which can be of immeasurable use to policymakers today, provided they understand what it is and is not.

As a source for information on Ukraine and Russian relations with the West, Putin’s commentary is interesting, but ultimately of limited value. As an insight into Putin’s thought process, and how Russian policy is formulated, however, Tucker’s interview with the Russian leader is invaluable. Understanding Putin’s theory of history, especially the passivity with which he views Russia’s role – as the victim of events and the actions of others rather than a protagonist itself – will be key to any policy the West might formulate toward Russia.

That viewers received the product we did seems to have come as a surprise to all involved.

Tucker Carlson may well have gone in expecting Putin to make his case to the American people, and it is clear that Carlson’s critics feared exactly that. The viciousness of the attacks on the very idea that Carlson would interview the Russian president were invariably linked with concerns that Putin would use the opportunity to spread propaganda which would undermine support for further military aid to Ukraine.

Leaving aside how fears that merely allowing Putin to present arguments against military aid to Ukraine implies an awareness among American leadership of the abysmal job they have done selling their own case to the American people, they need not have worried. Vladimir Putin was not interested in tailoring his words in order to make his case to the American swing voters, Tucker Carlson, or anyone else. Putin was speaking to history.

Putin’s interview has been widely mocked for the obsession the Russian president seemingly displayed with historical minutiae, and even Tucker himself seemed uncertain what Putin was seeking to accomplish. In a disclaimer at the start, Tucker admits that he and his team initially viewed Putin’s behavior as a form of filibuster, and “found it annoying,” prompting efforts to interrupt and put Putin “back on track,” efforts the Russian President also found annoying. At one point, Putin asked Tucker whether he wanted “a show or a serious discussion.”

It might be tempting, especially for those already predisposed to hostility to the Russian leader, to dismiss Putin’s actions as the sign of an autocrat who has gone mad with power. It seems more likely that Putin was taking advantage of the interview, but not in the way Tucker or his critics expected or feared. The Russian president saw this as a chance to ensure that his version of history would be told.

Vladimir Putin is an old man. Not as old as Joe Biden, and as the contrast between this interview and the Special Counsel’s interview with Biden indicates, much more lucid. But Putin clearly seems aware that almost his entire life lies behind him, and what is now taking place is merely an epilogue to what came before.

Putin may not have time to draft a memoir, and based on comments during the interview, clearly does not believe he has any way to get it fairly distributed in the West. His successors might then destroy any manuscript. He could have, of course, given this sort of interview on Russian TV, but the Russian people know his story, and that would have faded into archives. Tucker presented Putin with the chance to create a historical testimony with relevance to the West.

That testimony was less academic history and more more akin to a memoir or a court affidavit in the sense that it was designed to tell a story that the author believes to be true, and was vigorously researched and cited.

Unlike an academic history, Putin did not consider multiple interpretations of events, a plethora of motives for the actors involved, and reconcile facts which do not seem to fit. He knows what he thinks the truth is, and believes the facts support it. Therefore, he provides only one explanation for every event, and often seems remarkably uninterested in the motives of anyone else, most famously responding to repeated efforts by Tucker to explain why he thinks Western leaders behave a certain way with the suggestion Westerners should “ask their leaders.” In Putin’s view, any facts which undermine the story he believes to be true must be irrelevant.

For instance, we can probably take at face value that Putin wished to “move on” as he put it, from the Balkan conflicts after taking power, and tested Western resolve by asking whether Russia could join NATO. It is also likely true he received a negative response, which he interpreted as confirmation of Western hostility, and a personal rebuff. However, in the interview, Putin is mum on whether he held any actual interest in joining NATO or was merely on a fishing expedition, and all but admits no serious proposals were presented on logistics.

Presented with a hypothetical inquiry from Putin which may have been conveyed in jest, accompanied by no concrete proposals, or evidence Russia actually wanted to join NATO, it is easy to see why Western leaders would let drop an issue that would have required an extensive rewriting of their security structures. There is no reason to believe from Putin’s own words in the interview that he ever conveyed a real desire for Russia to join NATO, even if he believes a door was slammed in his face.

The same skepticism should be applied to three major components of his Ukraine policy.

The first is his complaint that there was no need for the CIA/Western powers to overthrow Yanukovych in 2014, after the Ukrainian president had agreed to appoint an opposition government and call early elections he was certain to lose. Putin is likely correct here. The overthrow of Yanukovych after he had made the agreement was unnecessary from the perspective of everyone’s interests, including those of the United States, and with hindsight it has had catastrophic consequences.

This is why it so curious that Putin seems to have given next to zero thought as to why it happened or even whether it did. For Putin, the CIA and United States overthrew Yanukovych when it served no purpose, after they had agreed not to do so. It does not appear to have occurred to Putin that this might be evidence not for irrational self-defeating hostility, but for incompetence.

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Warm & Cozy Miso Soup

Pysanky Egg Class

Ingredients: • 4 cups water • 2 teaspoons dashi granules • 3 tablespoons miso paste • 1 (8 ounce) package silken tofu, diced • 2 green onions, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces

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DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine water and dashi granules in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and whisk in miso paste. Stir in tofu. Separate the layers of green onions and add them to the soup. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

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NOTES: These are the basic, easy-to-find ingredients you’ll need to make this top-rated miso soup recipe: • Water: This easy miso soup recipe starts with four cups of water.

• Dashi granules and miso paste: Dashi granules and miso paste give the soup a bold, savory flavor base.

• Tofu: The protein in this miso soup is a package of diced silken tofu.

• Green onions: Diced green onions add a burst of color and flavor.

Recipe by AllRecipes, Image by vecstock on Freepik

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State News Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Assembly, Senate Republicans Push to Require Federal Notification in NY Illegal Migrant Cases Assembly Republican Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski) and his Republican colleagues in the Assembly and Senate discussed serious concerns with the state’s handling of the migrant crisis and subsequent crime taking place.

Legislation introduced by Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo (R,C-Sayville) and Sen. Andrew Lanza (R-Great Kills) would require state cooperation with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New York state, as the migrant crisis continues to spiral out of control. More than 170,000 migrants have entered New York since the crisis began.

“Joe Biden left the southern border open for three years, and illegal migrants have taken full advantage of the welcome mat rolled out by New York Democrats.

By undermining the authority of ICE and other federal agencies, Democrats threw gas on a fire and have no ability to get it under control,” said Assembly Republican Leader Barclay. “I commend Assemblyman Gandolfo for introducing this legislation as the migrant crisis continues to intensify. It’s time to restore the basic protocols that protect our nation’s sovereignty and our citizens.”

“The migrant crisis continues to spiral out of control as a direct result of open borders, sanctuary policies, and soft-on-crime measures championed by Democrats at the state and federal level,” said Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda). “Governor Hochul and President Biden could take measures to reverse the massive influx of migrants with the stroke of their pens, but they continue to allow it unchecked – leaving New York taxpayers on the hook and our streets less safe. I

applaud Senator Lanza and Assemblyman Gandolfo for this bill that will ensure law enforcement can cooperate with federal officials – if our governor and President won’t act to protect New Yorkers, the Legislature must step in to do so.”

In 2017, former Governor Andrew Cuomo signed Executive Order 170, which effectively designated New York as a sanctuary state and tied the hands of law enforcement when it came to cooperating with federal ICE agents. Governor Hochul, as governor, has the ability to rescind this order, but has not, and has taken no action to address the massive influx of illegal immigrants into New York City and the state.

In response to the inaction of the governor, Assemblyman Gandolfo and Sen. Lanza introduced legislation (A.9167)/(S.8533) that would require local and state law enforcement and certain courts to notify ICE of the arrest or conviction of non-citizens, reinstate the 365day maximum sentence for a class-A misdemeanor, and repeal the “protect our courts act” of 2020, which was designed to discourage cooperation and enforcement of federal immigration laws.

“New York Democrats have consistently worked to undermine federal immigration authorities and protect those who enter the United States illegally,” said Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo. “When migrants feel emboldened to commit acts of violence against New Yorkers, including police officers, it is clear that we need immediate action. We must compel law enforcement at every level to cooperate with ICE, and strengthen our laws

so that New York is no longer a preferred destination for illegal immigrants - especially those with criminal intent.”

“The failed immigration policies of President Biden and Governor Hochul are making New Yorkers less safe,” said Senate Deputy Minority Leader Lanza. Illegal migrants attacking our citizens and our brave men and women in law enforcement must be deported. This bill reverses course and allows our courts and police to notify federal authorities to get these dangerous people off our streets. I want to thank Assemblyman Gandolfo for sponsoring this bill in the Assembly, and Leaders Ortt and Barclay for their steadfast leadership on this issue,” This legislation would require law enforcement agencies in New York to forward fingerprints and associated reports to ICE upon the arrest of non-citizens. In addition, this bill requires courts in New York to notify ICE upon a felony or misdemeanor conviction of a non-citizen.

In recent years, New York state passed legislation that severely limits the ability of federal immigration officials to detain and track undocumented immigrants within the state. Democrat-supported laws have made New York an attractive destination for migrants by establishing New York as a “Sanctuary State.”

This bill would also restore the penalty for certain misdemeanor crimes committed by non-citizens, so it is in line with federal law to ensure truly reprehensible crimes are eligible for deportation. This would reverse a 2019 law that reduced the maximum sentence for these crimes and prevented the deportation of potentially dangerous illegal migrants.

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Continued from page 16

19

Thursday, February 15, 2024

His Version Of History: The Putin Interview

The Obama administration and E.U. lost control of their own supporters, and as in Syria, Libya, and Egypt, may have preferred to claim credit for things they had been too negligent to stop rather than admit their own powerlessness. Putin presents no evidence of deliberate involvement when he had the chance to do so during the interview, perhaps because he does not have any, or possibly because he felt no need. The idea that the CIA was not behind everything is inconceivable to him, so what good would evidence be when “everyone knows?”

Similarly, the interview segment about the Minsk 1 and 2 agreements is informative, not least because Putin, by telling Tucker he was willing to implement them, concedes that he did not do so. In short, Putin signed agreements not with the intention of complying with his written word, but potentially doing so if other conditions were met.

At best, by suggesting that none of the parties had much intention of following through, this demolishes the case that the West undermined the agreements. At worst, it implies negotiating with Putin is pointless as he so thoroughly expects bad faith that Russia preemptively will assume the right to violate agreements on day one.

Finally, the interview segment on the Istanbul negotiations between Ukraine and Russia suffers immensely from Putin’s habit of outsourcing blame to outside forces while displaying total indifference to their motives. Putin seems to imply that a near full agreement had been reached, only for the British to torpedo it.

Putin neglects to speculate why the British would do so, or why Ukraine would go along with British demands. This is particularly suspicious when Putin declines to offer Ukraine any terms for negotiations when prompted several times by Tucker, suggesting the problem is a law against such talks.

There are grounds for suspicion that we are not getting the entire story, and that the Istanbul talks ran aground on terms Putin is unwilling to disclose even now. Or, just as concerning, it is possible that Putin has yet to settle on precisely what he wants from this conflict.

What comes through on these topics, and dozens of others over the more than two-hour interview, is a version of history in which Putin was at once a protagonist, but a not particularly important one.

For Putin, it was on the United States and its allies, not himself, to formulate concrete proposals for Russia to enter NATO when he expressed vague interest in the idea. In Ukraine in 2014, the United States had the exclusive duty to control the actions of all parties, even though Russia helped precipitate the crisis. When it came to the Minsk Agreements, it was up to the West to implement them. If the West did so, he was willing to.

Finally, it is up to others to come up with proposals for peace in Ukraine now.

As it goes for Vladimir Putin, so it goes for Russia.

Throughout his historical lectures, we are told that Russia

does not make history, history happens to Russia. The Varangians and Mongols arrived, the Poles and Lithuanians advanced, Ukrainian nationalism developed based on foreign influences, and World War II occurred because mystical forces caused the Poles and Nazis to fail to come to a deal.

It will be up to future historians to determine the truth of whether Putin is more a villain or victim of history. Current policymakers, however, should take one key insight from the Tucker Carlson interview: It is not what Putin thinks about Poland, Mongols, or even Ukraine and NATO that matters. Rather, it is that Putin perceives himself as weak, as someone who does not make policy but is forced into it. He was forced into hostility to the West, non-compliance with Minsk, pulling out of Istanbul, and now into allying with China to counter the United States and undermine the U.S. Dollar. Everything is someone else’s fault.

What this means is that Putin can be “forced” into things, but will

O N

never take the initiative. For Putin to be forced into a compromise in Ukraine by Western support would be just another chapter in the personal and national history he provided.

Waiting for Putin to formulate terms, propose them, and implement them in the event of military success is an idea so foreign that the Russian president has clearly not contemplated it. Putin made clear repeatedly he will not propose terms, and expects them to be brought to him, whether in his demand Ukraine repeal its purported law against negotiations, or his refusal to provide Tucker with answers.

If there is going to be any sort of end to the war in Ukraine, America and its allies are going to have to do the work. Putin’s is content to let it happen, and then comment on it later.

Walter Samuel is the pseudonym of a prolific international affairs writer and academic. He has worked in Washington as well as in London and Asia, and holds a Doctorate in International History.

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Bits & Pieces

20 WORD Denouement

Thursday, February 15 , 2024

OF THE

Week

Origin: Mid 18th century: French dénouement, from dénouer ‘unknot’.

Source: Oxford Languages

Synonyms: finale, culmination, climax Antonyms: beginning, origin

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Football Terminology

Noun Pronounced: de·noue·ment [dānoo’mäN] Definition: The final part of a play, movie, or narrative in which the srands of the plot are drawn together and matters are explained or resolved.

Example: “The mysteries were all revealed in the book series’ thrilling denouement.”

This Week in History Word Ladder 2/15 The aim of the game is to get from the given initial word to the given final word by changing only one letter per line. Note that every line must be a valid word.

Sometimes there are several possibilities.

Initial word: HEAD Final word: TAIL Goal: 6 words

February 20, 1856 The John Rutledge, the steam packet ship coming to New York from Liverpool, crashes into an iceberg, resulting in the loss of 120 passengers and 19 crew members. Thomas Nye of New Bedford was the only person of the 140-passenger ship to survive.

February 20, 1872 One of New York City’s most prestigious and famous art museums, New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, opens. Home of almost 500,000 works of art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or better known to locals as The Met, is one of the top tourist destinations in New York with 3.41 million visitors in 2022 alone.

1.

2.

February 20, 1899

3.

Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, American businessman and heir of Pan Am Airways is born in Roslyn, New York. Whitney founded Pan Am Airways in 1927, at only 28 years old, and built it to be the largest international airway carrier in the country in the 20th Century. The company ceased operations in 1991 and Whitney passed away a short year later in 1992 at 93 years old in Sarasota Springs, New York.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

February 17, 1995:

9.

10.

Check our Instagram @MessengerPapers and our Facebook for the answers to this week’s games.

Colin Ferguson, murderer of six Long Island Rail Road passengers, is found guilty on six counts of murder and 19 counts of attempted murder. Ferguson is currently serving a 315 year prison sentence at Upstate Correctional Facility near the New York-Canadian border for the massacre. On December 7, 1993, Ferguson boarded an LIRR train headed to Penn Station in Queens at the Merillon Avenue station where he opened fire, reloading at least once, before being tackled by passengers.

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21

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Adams Named in Lawsuit Involving Housing Vouchers, Migrants

By Christian Wade | The Center Square Contributor New York City Mayor Eric Adams is being sued by homeless advocates for not implementing a new law expanding the city’s low-income housing voucher program amid an influx of tens of thousands of migrants.

The lawsuit, filed by the Legal Aid Society on behalf of four homeless individuals, faults the mayor for failing to implement three laws overhauling the city’s rental assistance program, known as CityFHEPS. The plaintiffs have asked a Superior Court judge in Manhattan to grant an injunction ordering the city to comply with the laws.

“Respondents are unlawfully denying petitioners the benefit of critical protections the Legislature intended them to have, while they face eviction and languish in shelter, creating exactly the evil the Legislature sought to prevent – households eligible for a subsidy meant to prevent eviction will be evicted because Respondents have failed to act in accordance with the law,” the lawsuit reads.

The Legal Aid Society, which advocates for the city’s homeless population, said the court needs to compel the Adams administration to comply with the expanded voucher program.

“The Adams administration’s refusal to implement the law is unacceptable, and the city must take immediate action to ensure that the thousands of New Yorkers who are experiencing or are on the brink of homelessness and who are now eligible for CityFHEPS can secure safe, longterm and affordable housing,” read a statement from Robert Desir, a staff attorney with the society.

The package of bills would allow New Yorkers facing eviction to apply for rental vouchers and eliminate a rule requiring people to stay in shelters for 90 days before they are eligible to receive a voucher. It also prohibits landlords from deducting utility bill charges from a voucher and raises the cutoff income level to qualify for assistance.

Adams vetoed the proposal last year, saying it

Anthony Quintano from Mount Laurel, United States, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

would be too costly to the city. He estimated the price tag at $17 billion over five years, $7 billion more than the City Council projected.

The council overrode Adams’ veto by a vote of 42-8 in July and gave the mayor until Feb. 7 to implement the law and said he hasn’t complied with the demands. In December, the Adams

administration informed council members that it couldn’t implement the new laws due to “substantial financial, operational and legal issues.”

Last week, the council voted to authorize Council President Adrienne Adams to file a legal challenge to force the mayor to implement the new laws.

Under the CityFHEPS program, a household must have a gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and face eviction. About 36,000 households use the program, according to the city.

In 2023, the city spent nearly $500 million on the program, almost double what it spent in 2021, according to the city’s Independent Budget Office. The department estimates that expanding the voucher program would cost the city between $3 billion and $36 billion over the next five years.

The dispute over implementing the rental voucher law is the latest development in a widening intra-party rift between Adams and the Democratic-led Council, which recently overrode the mayor’s vetoes of a police stop bill and a ban on solitary confinement in city jails.

It also comes as the city grapples with the influx of tens of thousands of migrants that have pushed its emergency shelter system to the brink of collapse.

The city is providing temporary housing and other needs for about 65,000 migrants, which it says has cost more than $2 billion over the past year.

“The mayor’s disrespect for everyday New Yorkers, especially those facing homelessness, not to mention this council and our speaker, is shameful,” New York City Council Member Tiffany Cabán, a Democrat, said in a statement on Wednesday. “He has proven that he cannot be trusted. This city deserves so much better.”

E-buses: Republicans Seek Delay for ‘Mother of All Unfunded State Mandates’

By Christian Wade | The Center Square Contributor Delaying a mandate requiring hundreds of school districts to replace fossil fuel powered buses with e-vehicles has been requested of the state by New York Republicans.

State Assemblyman Phil Palmesano called the requirements the “mother of all unfunded state mandates.” State Sen. George Borrello said, “Like so much of the state’s climate agenda, there is no cost-benefit analysis of this mandate or any realistic plan for how to pay for it.”

The mandate, which went into effect in 2022, requires new school bus purchases to be zero emission by 2027 and all school buses in operation to be electric by 2035. Republicans want to push that deadline out to 2045, and examine the results of studies of the e-vehicles’ reliability.

Borrello, R-Sunset Bay, said school officials across the state “are becoming increasingly concerned about the tremendous financial and operational challenges associated with this one-size-fits-all requirement.”

“This mandated conversion will have a price tag in the billions, with New York state taxpayers simply expected to foot the bill,” he said.

Palmesano, R-Corning, said it will ratchet up costs for school districts, and ultimately taxpayers.

“At a time when our state is bleeding billions of dollars because of the migrant crisis and school aid cuts are hitting rural and suburban districts, neither our schools nor our taxpayers can shoulder crushing new costs,” Palmesano said in a statement.

The lawmakers say the upgrades would cost the state and school districts between $8 billion and $15.25 billion more than the cost of replacing them with new diesel buses. Meanwhile, utilities have said the electrical upgrades needed to charge the buses could run as high as $15 billion statewide.

The average new electric school bus costs about $400,000, compared to traditional gas-powered buses which cost around $130,000, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Borrello and other Republicans have filed a bill that would rescind the electric bus mandate and replace it with a state-funded pilot program that would allow schools to test the vehicles.

Another bill would require the state Department of Education to conduct a cost feasibility analysis for each school district before requiring them to comply with the mandate.

Critics of New York’s mandate note that other states with cold winters have been experiencing problems with the charging of the vehicles that limits their reliability. They cite reports that electric buses are “gathering dust” in garages because of mechanical problems and hard to access parts and technical support.

Borrello said while other states are testing the feasibility of electric buses for their regions through pilot programs, New York Democrats “rushed to enact a mandate” without gauging the impact.

“This is a movie we’ve seen before in Albany and it never ends well,” he said.

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Theatre & the Arts Thursday, February 15, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

A Standing Ovation for EastLine’s Opening Night of

‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ “The Diary of Anne Frank” is a stage adaptation of one of the most famous books published posthumously, “The Diary of a Young Girl.” The playwrights Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett were a husband-andwife screenwriting team perhaps best known for their adaptation of the 1943 short story “The Greatest Gift”

by Philip Van Doren Stern, which the beloved Christmas classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life” was based on. The couple spent eight years completing this play, which opened on Broadway in 1955 and received the Tony Award for Best Play and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. EastLine Theatre’s production features Wendy Kesselman’s 1997 revision of the Goodrich and Hackett adaptation.

The BACCA Arts Center in Lindenhurst is an intimate space, which allowed Danny Higgins, the innovative director of this powerful two-act drama, to bring an immersive theatre experience to the audience. Throughout the show, you will feel as if you are locked away in the Secret Annex with the Franks, the Van Daans, and Mr. Dussel. The entire cast is superb, and the interpersonal relationships between the different characters rang true, keeping the show’s emotional grasp rock solid throughout. “The Diary of Anne Frank” is one of those rare plays where the actors stay on stage the whole time, cleverly dramatizing the harsh truth that in real life, there was no other place for them to hide and no room in the Secret Annex for them to get away from each other. Kudos to Higgins for his masterful lighting, which helped set the play’s somber, realistic, and often terrifying tone.

Chloe Adamczyk was perfectly cast as Anne Frank, a strong-willed, intelligent teenager awakening to her sexuality, longing to live life, but stuck in involuntary confinement by a world gone mad. Anne wants to be a writer and says, “I want to go on living even after my death!” Adamczyk is a gifted actor whose expressive body language and facial gestures spoke volumes. I loved the fun and tender moments she shared with her older sister, Margot, beautifully portrayed by the talented Victoria Kay. Kay brought a quiet strength to this role. When the Gestapo officer barged into the Secret Annex, the terror-stricken expression on Kay’s face sent chills down my spine.

Gary Tifeld delivered an award-worthy performance as Otto Frank, Anne’s kind, supportive, and protective father. The drama closes with Tifeld giving one of the most gut-wrenching monologues you will ever hear on any stage. Tears rolled down my eyes as he painfully described the dire fate of his friends and family members. Melanie Lipton commanded the stage as Edith Frank, Otto’s devoted wife, and she was believable as Anne and Margot’s troubled but loving mother.

The Van Daans also shared the Secret Annex. As time went on, the tension between the two families grew stronger and stronger, so much so that Edith Frank insisted, after catching Mr. Van Daan stealing a piece of bread, that he and his family must find another place to hide, a feat damn-near impossible for them to accomplish. Ted Moriates, as Mr. Van Daan, and Staci Rosenberg-Simons, as his wife, had dynamic onstage chemistry. Their easy banter provided much-needed comedic relief throughout the play. They also shared many poignant moments that added to the play’s emotional impact. Michael Devereaux gave a memorable performance as Peter, their timid and hypersensitive teenage son, and Anne’s love interest.

Lee Kurfist gave a standout performance as Mr. Dussel, a neurotic dentist who shared a room with Anne.

Watching him fiddle with his dental tools and struggle to learn French from Anne were some of the more lighthearted moments in the play.

“I never thought I’d live to see the day a man like Mr. Frank would have to go into hiding.” These heartbreaking words were spoken by Mr. Kraler, a man who worked for Otto Frank and risked his life to help the Frank family and the others escape the Nazi death camps. Peter Goike III gave a nuanced performance as Mr. Kraler, a man who mustered up the courage to do what needed to be done despite his fears. Clare Lowell was outstanding as Miep Gies, a kind, moral woman who hated the Nazis and brought food, good cheer, and news of the outside world to the people locked away in the Secret Annex.

The authentic period costumes by Chery Manniello and the outstanding sound design by Danny Higgins and Dan Moses Schreier added to the overall success of this stellar production.

This haunting real-life drama about a horrific time in history is a heartrending and enlightening experience, one you and yours don’t want to miss.

Performances are at the BACCA Art Center in Lindenhurst and run through February 25, 2024. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at eastline.ludus.com. More information is available at eastlinetheatre.org or by calling 516-749-5047.

Chloe Adamczyk, Victoria Kay

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright.

She has a BFA in Theatre from UCONN and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of “Grant Me a Higher Love,” “Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships,” and “Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic.” Her full-length plays, “Beethoven, The Man, The Myth, The Music,” and “Angel’s Mice and Men” are published by Next Stage Press. www.Grantmeahigherlove.com.

Ted Moriates, Michael Devereaux, Staci Rosenberg-Simons

Gary Tifeld

Lee Kurfist, Gary Tifeld, Melanie Lipton

Sports Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

WFHS Girls’ Varsity Basketball Clinch Second Consecutive League Title

23

Ducks Sign Former Padres Infielder Ivan Castillo Switch-Hitter is First Player to Join 2024 Roster

The Long Island Ducks recently announced the signing of infielder Ivan Castillo.

The former Major Leaguer begins his first season with the Ducks and 12th in professional baseball.

“We are excited to welcome Ivan to Long Island,” said Ducks Manager Lew Ford.

“He is a versatile player who has spent time at three infield positions and all three outfield positions during his professional career.”

The William Floyd Colonials girls’ varsity basketball team defeated Patchogue-Medford on Friday, February 9, by a score of 67-47 to clinch their second consecutive League I title! The Colonials are currently 18-1 overall (141 in League I) and are preparing for an exciting playoff tournament. The New York State Sportswriters Association (NYSSWA), in their latest rankings released February 11, has the Colonials ranked as the No. 12 Class AAA-ranked team in all of New York state.

In their league-clinching victory, which was also the senior game, Jacky Sutherland scored the 1,000th career point of her Colonial career. Jacky became the second varsity player this season (Kayla Gilmore) to surpass 1,000 career points.

In the game, Shy Hawkins scored 30 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, four steals, and three blocks; Kayla Gilmore had 20 points, six rebounds, five steals, and three assists; Sutherland finished

with 13 points, six rebounds, and three assists; and Natalie Samlihan added five rebounds, four points, and an assist.

The Colonials have one regular season game remaining before the playoffs begin – a road game at Brentwood on Wednesday, February 14, at 6:00p.m.

Team members include Brooklyn Barnes, Chloe Campbell, Kelis Gandy, Kayla Gilmore, Shy Hawkins, Kayden Meyer, Victoria Nelson, Zen Pastor, Natalie Samlihan, Janiyah Smith (manager), J.J. Stewart, Jacky Sutherland, Destiny Talbert, Ava Tiedemann, Rylie Wiegand, and Andie Will.

The coaching staff includes Rich Sinclair, head coach, and assistant coaches Robert Hodgson, Max Campbell, and Michael Clauberg.

Congratulations to the talented student-athletes and their coaches on another great victory in what has been a season full of them! Best of luck in the playoffs! Let’s go, Floyd!

Castillo reached the Major Leagues with the San Diego Padres in 2021, picking up his first MLB hit and run batted in with a pinch-hit RBI single off St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Genesis Cabrera on May 16 at Petco Park. In addition to the Padres, the Dominican Republic native has played with the Cleveland Indians, Toronto Blue Jays, and Kansas City Royals organizations, reaching Triple-A with Cleveland and Kansas City. He has compiled a .263 career batting average with 32 home runs, 321 RBIs, 409 runs, 840 hits, 154 doubles, 35 triples, and 124 stolen bases in 903 games.

The 28-year-old was named a Florida State League Post-Season All-Star in 2018 with Dunedin (A+, Blue Jays), hitting .304 with five homers, 44 RBIs, 41 runs, 118 hits, 25 doubles, and 8 triples that season. He was also named a Texas League Mid-Season All-Star in 2019 with Amarillo (AA, Padres), finishing the year with a .313 batting average, a .347 on-base percentage, eight homers, 57 RBIs, 62 runs, 135 hits, 30 doubles, 5 triples, and 15 stolen bases. Most recently, the switch hitter played with Acereros de Monclova of the Mexican League in 2023. In eight games, he totaled a homer, three RBIs, a run, and a walk. Castillo was originally signed by Cleveland Indians as an international free agent in 2012.

The Ducks are entering their 24th season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip, New York. They are the all-time leader in wins and attendance in Atlantic League history, led all MLB Partner Leagues in attendance in 2023, and have sold out a record 706 games all-time.

For further information, visit LIDucks.com or call 631-940-DUCK (3825).

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Messenger Spotlight

Thursday, February 15, 2024

No Man Left Behind

@bravofoxtrot.1776 on instagram

By Kaitlyn Foley Groundbreaking and lifesaving work happens all around us, yet, as human beings, we get caught up in our own lives, our own groundbreaking and lifesaving moments, that those of others can be difficult to see. In the same sense, we often forget about those we do not see, those who may be struggling under our noses, those who were once on the top of the world then were dragged down by financial, societal, and bureaucratic forces.

These were just some of the points made between Veterans who are working with the Bravo Foxtrot United Veterans organization.

Based out of Bay Shore, Bravo Foxtrot is a nonprofit, charitable organization that works to reach and build relationships with Veterans who are living on the streets or in encampments.

Through these relationships, they provide these Veterans with basic necessities and items needed for survival like food, clothing, shelter, sanitary items, etc. With each Veteran Bravo Foxtrot encounters, they develop plans to meet the personal and individualistic needs of that Veteran. This could entail referrals to mental health services, Veteran support facilities, financial literacy training, job training, and reconnection efforts towards the person’s family and friends.

Founders of Bravo Foxtrot, Matthew Simoni and Jade Pinto, have been advocating for unhoused and mentally ill Veterans for three years since the organization’s founding in 2021. Simoni served in the military for nearly a decade in Naval Special Forces with topsecret clearance. He fought in three combat deployments, multiple classified missions, ranked E-6, or petty officer first class, and was personally selected and trained to participate in the prestigious Chief of Naval Operations, Priority One Command: Naval Special Warfare Development Group.

Simoni, himself, endured a bout of homelessness after reintegrating with society postdeployment.

“After my discharge in 2016, I myself ended up homeless, divorced from my wife at the time, a stranger to my children, I lost my home, I struggled with mental health, suicidality, self-medicating, just really struggling to stay alive and I was lucky enough to along that path of life to have met the right people,” said Simoni as he conversed with fellow Veterans of the Port Washington VWF Post. “I am now no longer ashamed or embarrassed. I can speak in front of a room of people, and I wear it as a badge of honor because that is what enables me. To be able to reach out to these Veterans and to be able to connect with them and relate to them in a way that they can understand.”

Because of his personal experiences, and background in the military, Simoni can create special and mutually respected relationships with Veterans who are currently living on the streets or in encampments. Using his and Jade’s own financial means, as well as donated items from local stores and supporters, Simoni and his volunteers drive their

Bravo Foxtrot bus into wooded areas where they often find these encampments located right here in our towns.

These trips to deliver items are often recorded by the Bravo Foxtrot team and can be watched on their YouTube Channel. A deep dive into what Simoni, Pinto, and their Bravo Foxtrot team do on a daily basis can be watched in their documentary, Long Island’s Forgotten Heroes which was released in October 2022.

“It’s not a simple process,” explains Simoni.

“The damage from being outcasted by society and living in that way for a number of years, the longer they stay that way, the harder it is to get out. You spend two years walking into the woods, you’re going to spend two years walking back out.”

The work of Bravo Foxtrot is easier said than done. Many of the Veterans that they meet on a day-to-day basis are not initially trusting nor do many of them want the help the organization offers. The mission of Bravo Foxtrot is not to force their brethren out of homelessness.

Instead, it is to build a relationship, a sense of trust, a mutual understanding between fellow veterans, figure out what the individual does want, and then facilitate their successful reintegration back into society, their communities, and their families.

In Bravo Foxtrot’s first three years of operation, they have accumulated 125 case files and successfully reintroduced 25 Veterans back into society.

The organization has resources to help Veterans in many ways that the government system may fall short. They have been approved by the Office of Temporary Disability and Assistance (OTDA) to house 20 or more Veterans in an adult shelter. They provide basic essentials, talk groups, virtual meetings, and consistent advocacy. As many Veterans will attest, the Veteran Affairs (VA) system can also be a tricky and complicated beast to navigate, so Bravo Foxtrot has volunteers who can help navigate the system, and facilitate Veterans in getting the benefits and help they deserve through the VA. Fusco Branstein and Rada law firm is also an official sponsor of Bravo Foxtrot, providing the much-deserved legal aid for Veterans as they reach financial stability in their journey.

“It takes a Veteran with similar experience to truly connect and gain the trust and respect of his comrades,” says Bravo Foxtrot. “We have been successfully bridging the gap between lawyers, political figures, and our respected Veterans, many of whom are struggling in life.”

The future of Bravo Foxtrot is bright, as Matthew and Jade have great ideas and programs on the horizon that will help thousands across Long Island, and hopefully eventually, millions around the county.

“Some of us paid with our lives all at once, but many of us paid with our lives over a lifetime. I’m one of those people. With that, I just want to say God bless our troops and God bless the principles, life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness that make our great nation free.”