Islip Messenger Archive Mar. 28, 2024

Suffolk D.A. Office Hosts Fentanyl and SeminarXylazine

By Matt Meduri

One of the biggest, and most silent, killers of today is fentanyl, a highly potent, addictive, synthetic chemical that is being found in street drugs and counterfeit pills in staggering amounts. Only a tiny amount of fentanyl must be consumed in order to prove fatal, which has taken the nation and Suffolk County by storm.

Assistant District Attorney Nicole Felice held a free public seminar discussing the dangers of fentanyl and a relatively new drug, xylazine, at the Success Community Care Clinic in Oakdale.

Xylazine, commonly known as “tranq,” is a sedative typically reserved for cattle and other large animals. It can be used to calm animals for surgical procedures, as a local anesthetic, or pain reliever. Some people report mixing xylazine with

fentanyl to prolong and enhance the euphoric high from fentanyl.

Xylazine is also known as a “zombie drug,” for its flesh-rotting effects on users.

Continued on page 3

Ronkonkoma Holds St. Patrick’s Day Parade

By Matt Meduri

Thousands lined the sidewalks of Hawkins Avenue and brave the cold and the wind on Sunday afternoon for Ronkonkoma’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The Brookhaven-Islip hamlet is no stranger to large, crowd-gathering events that feature collaborative efforts from fire departments, community organizers, businesses, and elected officials from both sides of the Town line.

Running from School Street to Thorne Street, the march began around 2:00p.m. as bagpipers, floats, and fire trucks made their way down the Irishflag-adorned street, with the intrinsically-Irish Flanagan’s Pub standing out as a prominent landmark looking over the event.

Continued on page 10

St. Patrick (left) and spectators outside Flanagan’s Pub (Credit - Matt Meduri)

Continued from front cover

Suffolk D.A. Office Holds Fentanyl and Xylazine Seminar

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported that in 2022, nearly a quarter of all fentanyl seizures contained xylazine.

Xylazine is not a controlled substance in the U.S.

Assistant D.A. Felice has been with the Suffolk County D.A.’s office since 2010 and she has worked in narcotics specifically since 2015.

“With respect to fentanyl, we have been handling these cases since about 2017, when fentanyl really became predominant,” said Felice. “Before that, it was mostly our regular old cocaine cases and heroin.”

Felice handles many overdose death cases and has worked in that concentration since 2018. Felice is also a Special U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. She follows many of those overdose cases to the federal level.

“Fentanyl is not something new to you, and I’m guessing that a lot of you have known people or heard of people who have overdosed because of fentanyl use, right? It’s very sad, unfortunately, but true,” said Felice. “We have seen such a large uptick in overdose deaths recently that we have started to focus our attention, in conjunction with the Suffolk County Police Department, on handling those cases. We, right now, are really trying to get manpower together to focus on them because this is becoming such a large issue. Xylazine has really been responsible most recently for a very large amount of these deaths.”

Felice then played a 911 call of a parent who found his daughter dead from an overdose. His frantic panicking was cut short when a neighbor, who was medically trained, told him that it was “too late” to perform CPR.

“By the time that people are found, most of the time they are already dead,” said Felice. “The reason is, especially when fentanyl is mixed with xylazine, that the overdose can happen so quickly that it doesn’t give any time for EMTs to remedy it. One thing that we have seen is because xylazine, unlike fentanyl, is not an opioid. It does not react the same way to Narcan.”

Narcan can help reverse the often fatal effects of fentanyl.

Felice said that inmates in the Suffolk County Jail can be given Narcan several times only for there to be no reaction. This is due to fentanyl being cut with xylazine.

“This is leading to deaths; Narcan was saving people,” said Felice. “We have people that overdose ten times in a year and were brought back. But now, if you end up with a sample that’s got fentanyl and xylazine, you’re not going to come back from that. So it’s very unfortunate, and it’s happening every day.”

Felice also said that the close proximity to New York City “contributes to an abundance” of the drug supply in Suffolk County. Felice also said that packages and parcels are also being used to ship drugs between Suffolk and NYC, allowing drugs to be purchased on the dark web through a source who has a connection in another country.

“Sometimes they’re coming through the mail as fully mixed fentanyl already, and sometimes they’re coming as the components of fentanyl, and then are being mixed here, either in the city or in the county. But they’re coming from everywhere, and it’s a very lucrative business,” said Felice.

Felice said that the profits are so large that traffickers often “don’t care” that law enforcement has intercepted their shipments.

“We are prosecuting people for the possession and sale of drugs. We are also helping to investigate the parcel cases where it’s coming through the mail and we prosecute people for that,” said Felice. “We work with our federal partners, the

DEA, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and with the Eastern District to try to stop that interstate, inter-county, intercontinental commerce of those substances.”

Felice then showed slides of various illicit drugs and how to identify them, including crack cocaine, powdered cocaine, and heroin.

“When fentanyl first started coming onto the scene, it was mostly mixed with heroin, and one of the questions I would ask people is if they could spot the difference between fentanyl and heroin,” said Felice. “They look exactly the same.”

Felice said that most heroin users would inject the drug intravenously through a syringe, but the easy and quick high from fentanyl-based pills form has allowed heroin to take a “back seat” to fentanyl.

Felice also said that fentanyl-based cocaine is leading to frequent overdoses, as a regular user would not be able to tolerate a comparable amount of fentanyl. “If one of the batches that they get has fentanyl in it, that’s going to lead to an immediate overdose. They’re not used to it, it’s not the same type of substance as cocaine, and the reaction to the body is going to be very severe and immediate,” said Felice.

Felice said that while fentanyl-laced marijuana, edibles, and vape pens are prevalent, they’re not of high concern in the eyes of the Suffolk County D.A.’s office.

Instead, Felice says prescription pills are of much higher concern, as fentanyl can be used to make nearly identical-looking pills for a fraction of the manufacturing cost. Felice also says that because of crackdowns on prescriptions and recent public perceptions of certain prescriptions has created a new market for counterfeit pills.

“Everything about it is going to look like a legitimate pill, but when you test the pills, they’re not going to contain Oxycodone or any of the components of a legitimate pill,” said Felice. “Nine out of ten times, I would venture to say nowadays it’s probably ten out of ten, the fake pills contain only fentanyl, or fentanyl and other dangerous substances like xylazine.”

Felice says that young people nowadays run a much more severe risk of experimenting with recreational drugs as is typical for the age group. Adderall and Xanax are two targets for counterfeit pills.

“The vast majority of the overdose cases I handle are people between the ages of 20 and 24,” said Felice. “For a little while, 26 was my number. But these are people’s kids who they thought they were going to get to see them for their whole life and have this great future, and it’s cut short. Sometimes, it’s just a tiny portion of a pill.”

Felice described a recent case of a twenty-three-year-old girl who purchased a fake Oxycodone pill. In order to receive the high faster, she broke off a piece of the pill, crushed it, and snorted it. She was found dead still in the driver’s seat of her car in her driveway by a neighbor the next morning.

Felice presented a difficult issue perpetrated by a complex network of motives, including greed, profit, and carelessness. She discussed her education outreach programs in high schools, asking kids if they would eat from a dirty restaurant if they did not know what was in their food. Likewise, pills should always be refused in that regard, because it’s even more likely that they are toxic and can almost immediately end a life too soon.

Success Community Care Clinic is located 405 Locust Avenue in Oakdale.

Suffolk Sheriff Welcomes Newest K9 to the Ranks

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. (D) welcomed the Sheriff’s Office’s newest K9, Hondo, last week at a brief ceremony. Sheriff Toulon presented Hondo with his official shield, and Hondo showcased his skills including a drug search and an apprehension demonstration.

“We are excited to welcome Hondo as our newest fourlegged member of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Toulon. “Just weeks after his training he already completed a successful missing person search, and we look forward to all the future investigative work he will do to keep our County safe.”

Hondo is a one-year-old German Shepard who received eight months of training in detecting drugs, patrolling, and searching buildings and locating missing or wanted individuals. Hondo will also do traffic patrol with the Sheriff’s Office’s DWI Unit.

Weeks after completing his eight-month training, Hondo assisted in tracking down a missing individual in Riverhead.

He was vital in helping find the missing teenager who fled on foot from the County Court complex and was shortly found behind electrical components in a wooded area in the complex.

Hondo joins a force of two other Deputy Sheriff K-9s and three Correction Office K-9s.

Senate Republicans Join Business and Labor Leaders in Opposition to NY Heat Act

Senator Mario Mattera (RSt. James), ranking member of the Senate Energy Committee, along with Senators Tom O’Mara (R-Big Flats) and Rob Rolison (R-Poughkeepsie) and members of the Senate Republican Conference were joined by New Yorkers for Affordable Energy Executive Director Daniel Ortega at a Capitol press conference today to call for a cost benefit analysis of New York’s climate policies and to oppose a costly new mandate, the New York Heat Act.

Since Democrats passed the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act in 2019, Republicans have demanded answers about its cost, expressed concerns about its mandates and questioned if its goals were realistic or achievable.

Further, the Senate Republican Conference has unanimously opposed new energy costs and mandates such as the NY Heat Act/ Affordable Gas Transition Act. These policies will raise rates for at least 75% of New Yorkers, eliminate thousands of good-paying union jobs and slap up to $50,000 in costs on homeowners who may be forced to transition from natural gas to electric heat.

“There needs to be a realistic plan not an ideological ban that will cost New York ratepayers trillions and result in real job losses for our hardworking men and women of labor,” said Senator Mattera. “As a proud union leader who creates jobs, I know there is a better approach that avoids this costly ill-conceived and reckless approach to our energy future.

It is up to those who are pushing this to accept reality and to join us to come up with a realistic way forward that protects our ratepayers and our workers both now and in the future.”

“The NY Heat Act is a disaster on the horizon for the vast majority of middle-class ratepayers,” said Senator O’Mara. “New York is already one of the least affordable and highest taxed states in America. Our state leads the nation in population loss. The Heat Act will only make it all worse. The Albany Democrats continue to impose unaffordable and unrealistic clean energy mandates with no concern for their affordability, feasibility, or reliability. They keep reaching deeper and deeper into the pockets of middle-class taxpayers, destroying family budgets, killing local jobs, and devastating local economies with the promise of very minimal or realistic benefits for most New Yorkers.”

“We all favor a cleaner environment; the question is how we achieve this outcome in a way that does not impose more harm and heap more costs on struggling working- and middle-class families,” said Senator Rolison. “Governor Hochul’s (D) plan will hurt blue-collar workers and raise costs on ratepayers who have watched their bills skyrocket in the last year. By banning the 100-foot rule and imposing new mandates for electrification before most industries are ready, the governor has set up Hudson Valley homeowners,

businesses, and utility customers to fail.”

New Yorkers are already struggling to pay high utility bills, largely driven by policies conceived by Democrats. Even before CLCPA was passed in 2019, 25% of the delivery charges on utility bills were made up of New York State taxes and fees.

Since then, things have only gotten worse. According to an analysis by the Empire Center for Public Policy of the first CLCPA report published by the Department of Public Service last summer, rates have already been driven upward by as much as 9.8%.

Passing the NY Heat Act would be a disaster for most ratepayers. While the bill caps utility costs for 25% of New Yorkers according to its sponsors, the money needed to continue to operate the grid will merely be picked out of the pockets of the 75% of those who do not receive any assistance. This is a classic political bait and switch, where a small group benefits while hard working middle-class families bear the burden. Further, the NY Heat Act would eliminate the “100-foot rule” for gas service that would lead to thousands of utility workers losing their jobs.

“On behalf of our collation of business and labor organizations, I want to thank Leader Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) and the Senate Republican Conference for fighting back against energy policies that are expensive, ill-conceived and bad for our economy,” said Daniel Ortega, Executive Director of New Yorkers for Affordable Energy. “We need common sense and not extreme climate ideology to lead the way. New York is blessed with an abundance of resources. If we plan carefully, we can reduce emissions, protect jobs, and keep costs reasonable for consumers. In order to get there, we must pause on our current course, appropriately measure the costs already imposed and stop passing new mandates like the New York Heat Act, which only make things worse.”

The New York Heat Act (S2016-A) passed the Senate in 2023 and again, this year. Governor Hochul has included a version of it in her budget that she calls “The Affordable Gas Transition Act”.

To view details of The New York Heat Act (S2016-A) scan QR-code

(Left to right) Senator Tom O’Mara, at podium Senator Mario Mattera, Senate Republican Leader Ortt and Daniel Ortega, Executive Director of New Yorkers for Affordable Energy

NY’ers Patience is Short, But Their Memory is Not

It’s already been four years since New York made what a rational nation would have considered a laughing stock of itself in 2020. Except what transpired was no laughing matter.

Under the mandates of the New York Department of Health (DOH), COVID-positive patients were transferred to nursing homes in order to shoulder the burden of helpless patients as hospitals buckled under the stress.

As per the order referenced on page seven, the DOH insisted that all nursing homes “must comply with the expedited receipt of residents returning from hospitals” to nursing homes.

The order also states that nursing homes were specifically prohibited from denying patients readmission to the homes based on suspected or even a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Nursing home staff were also not allowed to test returning residents for the virus.

Is it a mystery to anyone why the public was so adamant in bucking the overarching mandates of local, state, and federal governments in ensuring we maintain six-foot distances and wear masks while walking to our tables at the restaurant, but taking them off while we eat and converse?

It’s because New York acted so indignantly towards the most vulnerable population that they lost all credibility as the pandemic was just in its fledgling stages.

We can’t fault the state government and medical personnel for simply not knowing what to do in that crisis. It was an unprecedented disaster of catastrophic proportions, one that will likely send nurses and doctors to therapists for years to shed the understandable guilt of trying everything in their power to save lives only to fail repeatedly. The novel virus was truly powerful in March 2020, and we owe our endless thanks and respect to the frontline workers who quite literally risked their lives trying to gain control of the disease.

But we can certainly fault the government for such recklessness in exposing some of the most vulnerable members of our population to such an illness and without regard for the staff’s health.

What’s worse: residents were completely relegated to their rooms and family was barred from coming into direct contact with them.

This is where we have questions. If the public could not enter for fear of bringing the virus in or contracting on the premises, then why not test and quarantine infected residents? On the other hand, if residents returning from the hospital did not require testing, then why bar the families from visiting?

Was it an abhorrent misunderstanding of how pathogens spread and how contact with loved ones is one of the best medicines?

Was it a hasty “any means necessary” attempt at freeing up hospital beds, consequences be damned?

Was it intentional culling of populations likely to require readmittance to the hospital?

We may never know, but we thank our elected officials for trying every day to get answers.

Our memories are long and we certainly remember this day as one of the most shameful and unnecessary in our state’s and nation’s history.

We must also remember all the closed businesses, mask mandates, vaccine passports, inexplicably delayed or absent services, plexi-glass dividers from behind which we could not hear the cashier so we poked our heads around them negating the purpose of them completely, and the slew of other ultimately pointless measures that served primarily as the government’s mandate that we “must comply.”

We must also remember the ruling elite’s maskless parties, ritzy restaurant gatherings, forced hair salon openings for personal appointments, carte blanche travel and services, and absolutely no relation whatsoever to the vast majority of the population.

And yet, we are still waiting on answers.

Is the Opposition Really the Best We Have for NY-01?

Let’s address the elephant in the room - or former elephant: in a desperate plea to remain relevant, ex-Congressman George Santos (R-Queens) has decided to abandon his primary challenge to Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) in favor of a long-shot Independent bid for NY-01.

As if a chance of him returning to Congress wasn’t a long shot as it was. And we’d assume he’s got a better chance of seeing Elvis than he would have at garnering just 100 petition signatures for a chance to run in the Republican primary.

Now he needs 3,500 signatures by the end of May to qualify for an Independent bid.

We’re not ones to assume a safe bet ironclad. There are always outside chances of upsets; that’s politics. But what we can be fairly certain about is that Santos lacks any significant appeal, and certainly candidate quality, to even pose a remote threat to LaLota or even the Democrats vying for the right to challenge the freshman Congressman in a district that contains most of the nation’s largest suburban county.

Santos was rather short with us over the phone in our attempt to get a comment from him on his campaign going forward into a relatively uncommon political feat: running a third-party campaign for a House seat. They say that no press is bad press, but since Santos insists on being a walking, talking liability, we’re inclined to disagree with that platitude, at least just this once.

We’re also intrigued as to why Santos thinks he has a better shot at returning to Capitol Hill via NY-01 rather than attempting a rematch with Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove) in his home turf in NY-03 or primarying a vulnerable incumbent in Anthony D’Esposito (R-Island Park) in NY-04. We’re assuming it’s because he’s burnt his bridges to a crisp in Nassau County that he figured what’s a few more next door in Suffolk.

But since we’re looking at analyzing the realities of this race, we don’t intend to give Santos any more attention that he already clearly craves. It’s amazing how someone can suck all the oxygen out of the room by saying hardly anything of substance.

But is the Democratic bench really that much better?

Thankfully, a frustratingly out-of-touch character already suspended once he realized that he had no realistic shot of winning nomination against two other characters. Former State Senator Jim Gaughran (D-Northport) announced his run for Congress in August and recently suspended his campaign and endorsed John Avlon (D-Sag Harbor). Gaughran said he was motivated to re-enter politics after the overturning of Roe V. Wade, citing that his daughter now has fewer rights than her grandmother did.

Does anyone know what year it was when women gained the right to obtain credit cards in their own names for the first time?

1974.

Gaughran is sixty-seven years old, yet he thinks his own mother apparently had more rights than his daughter does now.

It’s just one example, but it’s one too many of the straw-grasping attempts Gaughran had made to carve a niche for himself in a state where abortion rights are codified and there’s no indication of a federal law codifying abortion rights to the benefit of any ideology.

Thankfully, Gaughran realized the task is simply too tall for him and we’re glad we don’t have to hear such hot-air arguments from him on the campaign trail.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. Democrats are rallying behind a familiar face: Nancy Goroff (D-Setauket), the Chair of the Chemistry Department at Stony Brook University. Goroff ran against then-Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-Shirley) in 2020 and lost by just under ten points as Donald Trump carried the district by just four points.

Furthermore, Trump only carried Suffolk County in 2020 by a couple hundred votes

out of more than 750,000 cast.

The current configuration of NY-01, had it been in effect for the 2020 election, would have seen Biden narrowly win it, making LaLota one of over a dozen Republicans nationally who represent Biden-won seats.

By these metrics, Goroff is a weak candidate. She’s not the weakest underperformer, but Democrats might have a better shot by consulting a wins-above-replacement model in seeking a fresh face. To Goroff’s credit, the district is more competitive than the one for which she campaigned in 2020 and LaLota only has one term under his belt. It’s not the worst idea to run her again, but it’s also not the best.

We also don’t think that a doctorate degree makes someone intrinsically qualified to hold public office. It’s not a demerit, but talking about it constantly is.

Good for Nancy that she is well-versed enough in a certain topic to make scientific advances and work with our great students at Stony Brook. That we will not deny. But such experience attached to such a degree does not automatically make one qualified to represent almost 800,000 residents of Suffolk County.

Then from left field (pun intended) enters John Avlon, a former CNN anchor and former editor-in-chief of The Daily Beast. If anyone should have run a third-party bid for NY-01, it should have been him, as he was a notable cofounder of the No Labels movement. But instead, he’d rather abandon the calls for centrism and bipartisanship and run as a Democrat.

We can’t fault him for understanding just what an uphill climb a third-party bid for a House seat is, but we can fault him for effectively selling out his beliefs and work for just a chance he could take on LaLota in November.

Avlon makes his home out in Sag Harbor, not a bad thing on its own but it certainly doesn’t beat the ritzy East End Democrat stereotype, especially with his background in mainstream media.

Avlon told The Hollywood Reporter that his impetus for running was that there is a “real chance to flip a seat from a first term Republican, sort of Trump hugger/Trump flunkey, who is far too right for the district.”

The funny thing is: LaLota is in a classic “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” situation.

Santos is attacking him from the right, calling him a RINO and a sellout. Goroff and Avlon attack him for being a Trump sycophant and yes-man to hyper-conservative politics.

Which is it, guys?

The fact of the matter is: LaLota has represented his district accurately and has certainly brought home the bacon. LaLota endorsed Trump for president, but most of his social media posts, initiatives, and results are purely Suffolk-centric. LaLota has been an immense advocate for preserving Plum Island, ensuring that Stony Brook University receives much-needed grant money, securing wastewater management funds for Towns that desperately need it - such as Riverhead - and has brought in funding for Westhampton’s Gabreski Airport, home to the 106th Rescue Wing, and even Fisher’s Island Airport.

We see him as effective and in line with his campaign promises.

For the sake of centrism and the voters, we’d hope that the Democrats - and whoever claims George Santos - could do better. But for the sake of NY-01, we’re okay with the bench this year, as any nominee seems like they’ll have a tough time knocking off a freshman like LaLota, while Trump is almost certain to win Suffolk handily and make inroads in New York overall.

Smith Seeks Accountability on COVID-19 Nursing Home Order Anniversary

By Assemblyman Doug Smith

Four years have elapsed since a controversial executive order by former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s (D) health department set off a chain of events culminating in his resignation. On March 25, 2020, an order was issued mandating that all nursing homes in New York State accept COVID-19 positive patients, a directive that controversially included a ban on testing incoming residents for the virus. This policy, reversed mere weeks later, left an indelible mark on the state’s handling of the pandemic, particularly in its nursing homes.

The fallout from this decision was profound. In August 2020, I joined with colleagues from both the Senate and Assembly, to participate in a bipartisan Hearing on COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes. We demanded answers from the Health Commissioner on the true toll the virus had taken on nursing home residents. Astonishingly, within an hour, the Commissioner was abruptly withdrawn from the proceedings by Governor Cuomo himself.

The quest for transparency did not end there. Lawmakers across party lines, the U.S. Justice Department, and the Empire Center, a non-profit watchdog, all sought clarity on the matter. It wasn’t until January 2021, following a legal mandate, that New York State was compelled to disclose the requested data to the Empire Center. The subsequent leak of a Zoom call, in which Cuomo’s office admitted to freezing up under federal scrutiny, only added fuel to the fire.

This saga took a dramatic turn when Assemblyman Ron Kim (D-Flushing), a participant in the infamous Zoom call, publicly accused Cuomo of threatening his career. Kim’s bravery opened the floodgates for others who had been similarly intimidated or harassed by Cuomo, including eleven women who came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct. These revelations precipitated Cuomo’s resignation on August 24, 2021.

Yet, the aftermath of Cuomo’s departure has done little to soothe the wounds of those affected. It was later unearthed that the Cuomo administration might have underreported nursing home deaths by over 15,000, a discrepancy possibly motivated by a $5 million advance Andrew Cuomo received for a book he authored on pandemic leadership. Further controversy arose over the use of taxpayer-funded staff for the book’s completion, sparking ongoing legal debates over potential violations of state ethics laws.

Today, as we mark this grim anniversary, the promised investigation by Governor Kathy Hochul into the Department of Health’s initial order remains pending. The silence from the state government, devoid of any apology or accountability, is deafening.

As a member of the Aging Committee who stood demanding answers in that August 2020 hearing, I affirm that the quest for truth and justice for the 15,000 lives lost is far from over. The memory of those we’ve lost and the fight for accountability continue to guide our actions. We owe it to them, and to the people of New York, to ensure such a tragedy never occurs again.

Assemblyman Doug Smith (R-Holbrook)

represents the Fifth District in the New York State Assembly. The Fifth District is split between Brookhaven and Islip and includes Farmingville, Holbrook, Holtsville, Islandia, Lake Grove, Lake Ronkonkoma, Ronkonkoma, and parts of Bohemia, Centereach, North Patchogue, and Selden.

The Fifth District office is located at 4155 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 9, in Ronkonkoma and can be reached at 631-585-0230.

The State’s Cannabis Operation Needs a Complete Overhaul

By Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay

New York’s attempt at legalizing cannabis has been a predictable failure. Our inefficient bureaucracy is troubling enough when it comes to basic policy items like infrastructure and taxation, so a complex policy like the commercial sale of cannabis was destined to be a nightmare for this administration.

For this reason, the Assembly Minority Conference has continued to ask for transparency, clarity, and robust auditing of the burgeoning program. Last March, our membership wrote a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul (D) and Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli (D) expressing concerns with the rollout of the state’s program. Since then, little progress has been made to get statesanctioned shops up and running and illegal pop-up shops closed down. This may be because the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) only employs a dozen or so investigators to pursue illegal operators—a losing battle compared to the more than 1,500 illegal shops open in New York City.

As we also noted in our letter, New York is one of many states to permit the sale of cannabis. Yet instead of prioritizing applicants with the qualifications and experience required to succeed, the OCM prioritized applicants with drug offenses and criminal histories. Only in New York are criminal records more appealing than records of proven success. Too many strong applicants have been boxed out due to this system, and the cracks are beginning to show.

The Assembly’s One-House Budget proposal includes a Cannabis Rescue and Relief Fund of $80 million to offset cannabis-related expenses plaguing cultivators and processors facing financial hardship—products have expired and OCM is facing multiple lawsuits—but there is no guarantee that money will make it into the final spending plan. Estimates show that by the end of the fiscal year, New York will have experienced a net loss of over $203 million since the program’s inception. If this was a private business, the doors would have already been closed.

Unsurprisingly, a few days ago, Governor Hochul announced a review of the state’s program after acknowledging it has, so far, been a “disaster.” She’s right; 7,000 applications are in front of the state, yet only about 83 stores

are open. Jeanette Moy, the commissioner of the Office of General Services (OGS), has been tasked with expediting the process and getting more shops open in the coming weeks. But is OGS really the right vehicle to tackle these challenges? Perhaps an independent, third party is better suited to identify and mitigate these problems.

Since the 2021 Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act was passed, New York has been at a loss to get the legal cannabis market up and running properly. The delays in the application process and the overflow of illegal shops are just a fraction of the problems with the operation.

As I said from the beginning of the state’s cannabis effort, a gray market was inevitable, and whenever state government tries to establish regulatory oversight of an industry, there are two guaranteed results: doing business here is going to become more onerous and less profitable. While we’ve seen neighboring states, like Massachusetts, create functional, profitable programs, New York’s has been mired in dysfunction. The economic impact of this mismanagement is growing in the wrong direction. It’s not too late to get this program back on track, and I hope the governor takes seriously how detrimental the initial implementation has been to New York.

If you have any questions or comments on this or any other state issue, or if you would like to be added to my mailing list or receive my newsletter, please contact my office. My office can be reached by mail at 19 Canalview Mall, Fulton, NY 13069 and by email at barclayw@nyassembly.gov. You may also find me, Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay, on Facebook or Twitter at @WillABarclay.

Assemblyman Will Barclay (R-Pulaski) is the Assembly Minority Leader and has represented the 120th Assembly District since 2003. The 120th District contains most of Oswego County and parts of Jefferson and Onondaga counties.

The Race for NY-01

Switching Teams: George Santos Leaves GOP, to Run as Independent for NY-01 Race Heats Up Between LaLota, Avlon, and Goroff

The race for NY-01 continues to develop as ex-Congressman George Santos (R-Queens) has made yet another unexpected announcement as he attempts to return to Capitol Hill.

On March 7, Santos announced a primary challenge against freshman Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville), whom Santos called a “RINO” (Republican In Name Only) on his Twitter announcement.

On March 22, Santos wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, expressing his chagrin at the 101 Republican House members who voted to pass the budget to keep the government funded.

“All the Republican Party wants to do is lose and beg for money to keep losing! I’m done,” he wrote.

In a subsequent Tweet, Santos announced his departure from the Republican Party and that he will continue his congressional campaign in New York’s First Congressional District as an Independent.

“After today’s embarrassing showing in the house I have reflected and decided that I can no longer be part of the Republican Party. The Republican Party continues to lie and swindle its voter base. I in good conscience cannot affiliate myself with a party that stands for nothing and falls for everything. I am officially suspending my petitioning in #NY01 to access the ballot as a Republican and will be filling [sic] to run as an independent. I will take my Ultra MAGA/Trump supporting values to the ballot in November as an Independent.”

Santos added, “@nicklalota and @JohnAvlon ill see you boys in November!”

Santos is referring to John Avlon, a former CNN anchor and former editor-in-chief of the Daily Beast who is running in the Democratic primary to earn the right to challenge LaLota in November.

Santos will be required to file an Independent nominating petition and collect and submit 3,500 signatures within NY-01 to the Suffolk County Board of Elections reached Congressman Santos by phone, but Santos declined to

Avlon recently joined the primary alongside Stony Brook Chemistry Department Chair Nancy Goroff (D-Setauket). Goroff ran for NY-01 in 2020 against then-Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-Shirley), losing by just under ten points. Goroff announced her campaign against LaLota in October 2023.

Goroff was recently endorsed by several 2023 Brookhaven Town candidates. She collected the endorsements of Mike Kaplan (D-Coram), who ran for Brookhaven Highway Superintendent against Dan Losquadro (R-Shoreham); Carol Russel (D-Coram), who ran against Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point); Lillian Clayman (D-Port Jefferson), who ran against Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches) for the position of Brookhaven Town Supervisor; Alyson Bass (D-Ronkonkoma), who ran against Councilman Neil Manzella (R-Selden); and Kerry Spooner (D-Calverton), who ran against Karen Dunne Kesnig (R-Manorville). None of the candidates garnered more than 40% of the vote against their respective opponents.

Avlon is a co-founder of No Labels, a 501(c)(4) that supports centrism and bipartisanship through what it calls the “commonsense majority” with their slogan “Not Left. Not Right. Forward.”

No Labels has been vocal about putting up a bipartisan “unity ticket” as an “insurance policy” for the 2024 presidential election if “both major parties nominate presidential candidates that the vast majority of Americans don’t want.”

No high-profile contenders for the election have sought the No Labels label. Avlon launched his campaign after New York’s congressional district map was settled after the lawsuit overturned the special master-drawn map used in the 2022 elections.

Avlon says he is a candidate who could “appeal and energize not just Democrats but Independents.” Avlon also says that despite being an Independent, he intends to run as a Democrat to build the “broadest possible coalition to defeat Donald Trump and win back the House from his ‘Maga’ minions who don’t ever seem interested in solving problems.”

Avlon says that Congressman LaLota is one of those “minions,” who said LaLota is “doing whatever Trump wants, including blocking a bipartisan border security deal.”

A spokesperson for Congressman LaLota called Avlon a “Manhattan elitist who “knows nothing about Suffolk County other than Sag Harbor croquet matches and summer cocktail parties in Bridgehampton.”

LaLota himself wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, criticizing Avlon’s use of the phrase “in Long Island” rather than “on Long Island.”

“Saying ‘in’ Long Island instead of ‘on’ Long Island shows you haven’t spent much time here,” LaLota wrote on X. “When Manhattanite @johnavlon made the mistake this week, it showed the arrogance and ego of a man using his Hamptons summer home to run for Congress to represent a people he doesn’t know.”

As of December 31, 2023, LaLota has just under $1.3 million cash on hand. Goroff raised almost $530,000 by the end of 2023.

Avlon and Goroff are the only two Democrats remaining in the primary, as former State Senator Jim Gaughran (D-Northport) suspended his campaign after only raking in $126,000 by last year’s end. Gaughran announced his candidacy this summer primarily in response to the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe V. Wade

“As I see what’s going on here on Long Island and nationally, I decided it’s time to s0tep up,” said Gaughran. “My daughter now has fewer rights than her mother and grandmothers had.”

Gaughran was part of the 2018 blue wave that flipped control of the State Senate by ousting twenty-four-year incumbent Carl Marcellino (R-Syosset). Gaughran defeated thenTown Board member, now-Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth (R-Huntington) by a narrow two-point margin in 2020.

Gaughran chose not to seek re-election in 2022, citing the redistricting that altered the landscape of his district. Originally representing the Fifth Senate District, the entire Town of Huntington was shifted to the Second District, represented by Mario Mattera (R-St. James). Mattera was re-elected decisively over former Suffolk County Legislator Susan Berland (D-Dix Hills) that year.

Attorney Craig Hershkowitz (D-Northport) dropped out of the Democratic primary for NY-01 to challenge Senator Mattera this year.

The First Congressional District now includes the entire Townships of East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Smithtown, Southampton, and Southold, as well as all of northern Brookhaven, eastern and southern Brookhaven from Moriches to Eastport and Calverton, as well as most of Huntington. The lawsuit-driven map redrawn shed the bluer parts of Huntington - Lloyd Harbor, Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington Bay, Halesite, Huntington hamlet, and Huntington Station - to NY-03, now represented by Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove). As a result of the changes, NY-01 has gotten slightly redder.

LaLota defeated then-Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming (D-Noyac) by an elevenpoint margin in 2022 for his first term.

How an Independent Santos bid will affect the race is unclear, but it certainly means less of a spectacle in the Republican primary at this point. Some Republicans who feel disaffected by LaLota’s more moderate voting record might find solace in a protest vote for Santos, but there isn’t likely enough crossover support for Santos to pose a serious threat to LaLota. It’s also unlikely that Santos will hurt the Democratic nominee based purely on partisanship.

At this point, LaLota is still favored to win the red-leaning and red-trending NY-01, but the race will certainly develop more once Democrats select a nominee.

This Week Today

National, State and Local Temperature Checks

By Matt Meduri

National

The presidential primaries had a quiet week after several big days of contests. March 23 saw Democrats hold their primary in Missouri while both parties held their votes in Louisiana.

Both presumptive nominees Donald Trump (R-FL) and Joe Biden (D-DE) won their respective contests, as all major contenders have now suspended their campaigns and only nominal opposition remains in the race.

In Missouri, Biden won handily with 85.3% of the vote, with the “Uncommitted” option receiving 11.7%. The ballot option is one that started in Michigan ahead of Super Tuesday to rally a protest vote against Biden for his stance on the war in Gaza. The initiative aimed to receive 10,000 votes in Michigan, home to one of the largest Arab-American populations in the country. The effort earned 100,000 votes and has since spread to multiple states.

Biden 110 of Missouri’s 114 counties, with just four counties showing unreported results as of press time: Hickory, Holt, Putnam, and Sullivan. It is assumed these counties will go to Biden once results are tabulated.

Biden will win all sixty-four delegates from Missouri. Republicans held their Missouri Primary on March 2, which was won by Trump in a landslide.

In Louisiana, Biden won the contest with 86.1% of the vote and won all sixty-four parishes - county-equivalents in Louisiana. He fell below 75% of the vote in several lowpopulation counties, the first type of result Biden has posted since the primaries started in January. He fell below 50% in Cameron Parish, where just sixty-one votes were cast.

Biden took all forty-eight delegates from the Pelican State.

By contrast, Trump won Louisiana with 89.8% of the vote. He carried all sixty-four parishes and fell below 90% of the vote in two parishes: Caddo, home to Shreveport, and St. Tammany, home to Covington.

Trump won all forty-seven delegates available.

Republicans have held primaries or caucuses in thirtythree states, four territories, and the District of Columbia, while Democrats have held contests in twenty-nine states, two territories, and the Democrats Abroad primary. Democrats canceled their primary in Florida.

With the nominating contests more than half over, both candidates have amassed enough delegates to be their parties’ presumptive nominees, with Trump collecting 1,686 delegates and Biden winning 2,600.

Democrats will hold a primary in North Dakota on March 30, followed by primaries in Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin on April 2. Both parties have canceled their primaries in Delaware, originally scheduled for April 2.

In other political news, the GOP majority becomes even more threadbare as Congressman Mike Gallagher (R, WI-08) has announced an early resignation.

The move will leave Republicans with a barelygovernable majority of 218, the minimum number of seats a party must capture in order to gain control of the lower chamber. Gallagher’s resignation, effective April 19, comes off the heels of the resignation of Ken Buck (R, CO-04), whose March 22 departure was predicated on frustration with a dysfunctional Congress and “widespread cynicism” bred by his party.

Gallagher has represented the Green Bay-based Eighth District in Wisconsin since 2017. The seat is firmly Republican and is not expected to be competitive in November, although a special election typically has more elasticity concerning seats generally regarded as “safe” for a party.

The resignations not only complicate Republicans’ attempts to govern after winning back the Speaker’s gavel in a lackluster 2022 midterm performance, but also complicates their marketing for the 2024 elections. With split-ticket voting at historically-low levels, the party who wins the White House will not only likely dictate control of the Senate vis-à-vis down ballot energy, but will also likely swing competitive districts in his direction. If Republicans had a larger buffer in the House, resignations of Gallagher, Buck, as well as recent resignations of Bill Johnson (R, OH-06) and former Speaker

Kevin McCarthy (R, CA-20), would not have been nearly as consequential in convincing voters to re-entrust them with the gavel.

However, Republicans can find some security in their prospects of retaining the House in an unlikely venue for such energy: California.

With California’s laboriously slow vote-counting process finally completed, both parties have a much better idea of their prospects in over a dozen seats across the state.

California operates in a top-two primary system, wherein all candidates, regardless of party, appear on the same ballot. The top two vote-receivers advance to a general election runoff, regardless of party as well. Multiple urban House seats frequently see two Democrats vying for a control of a district.

Democrats were unsurprisingly shut out of the special election to replace Kevin McCarthy in CA-20, one of the reddest districts in the state. Assemblyman Vince Fong (R) and Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux (R) advanced from the primary, ensuring Republicans retain control of the seat.

However, Republicans can find solace in their stellar performances in swing districts they currently hold and blue districts they intend to flip. In CA-09, based around Stockton, Republicans collectively earned more of the primary vote than Congressman Josh Harder (D). Initially on the competitive radar, the seat now shifts to more contentious territory as the GOP scored a top recruit in Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln (R).

In the Central Valley, a rematch is brewing in CA13, based around the San Joaquin Valley. Freshman Congressman John Duarte (R) defeated Adam Gray (D) in one of the tightest elections last year, but defeated Gray by ten points in the primary. The two will rematch in November.

In Orange County, Michelle Steel (R), first elected in 2020, cleared 50% in her Orange Countybased CA-45, while Democrats fumbled early attempts at fielding candidates. The race is off to a sleepy start but Steel appears firmly in the driver’s seat.

In CA-47, based around Huntington Beach, 2022 challenger Scott Baugh (R) advanced from the primary and led the GOP candidates to capture about half of the collective primary vote. Baugh ran a close race against Congresswoman Katie Porter (D) in 2022. Porter forewent another term to pursue a failed bid for the U.S. Senate nomination, losing to Adam Schiff (D, CA30) and former MLB star Steve Garvey (R). Republicans now have a half-rematch scenario in an ancestrally-red part of Southern California, improving their odds to net a seat this year.

pulling the bridge into the Patapsco River. Seven vehicles are said to have fallen into the water. Two people have been recovered, with one in critical condition. At least six construction workers are said to be missing and one casualty has been confirmed.

State

Intraparty fighting continues in Albany as the budget deadline of April 1 looms in the peripheral. Governor Kathy Hochul (D) and Attorney General Letitia James (D) are sparring with legislative Democrats and Big Tech lobbyists over their proposal to ban certain social media feeds that they say are a danger to mental health of minors.

Their plan, looped into the state’s comprehensive budget, would seek to ban social media platforms from constructing algorithm-based feeds, which they say are addictive, to children under the age of 18 without parental consent.

“If we don’t have the guts to take action to protect our children from what has now been demonstrated to have a detrimental effect on mental health, then shame on us,” said Hochul.

The “Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation for Kids Act,” or SAFE for Kids Act, would require parental consent for social media companies to send notifications to devices used by minors between the hours of 12:00a.m. and 6:00a.m. The act would also require the platforms to give parents the ability to limit the amount of time their children spend on social media apps.

While the idea is generally supported by Albany Democrats, they believe the specifics of the plan should be deliberated in a separate plan and excluded from the budget due April 1.

Republicans also performed well in the primary to take on Congressman Mike Levin (D, CA-49) in this Orange County-San Diego-based seat.

Republican incumbents Kevin Kiley (R, CA-03), Mike Garcia (R, CA-27), Young Kim (R, CA-40), and Ken Calvert (R, CA-41) each earned impressive amounts of the vote in their primaries, while Democrats Jim Costa (D, CA-21), Raul Ruiz (D, CA-25), and Julia Brownley (D, CA-26) could possibly find themselves in close contests this year.

In other political news, Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., announced his running mate as thirty-eight-year-old Nicole Shanahan.

Shanahan is a Silicon Valley lawyer and entrepreneur who donated $4.5 million to Kennedy’s campaign for a Super Bowl ad. She is also a former member of the Democratic Party. She also gave the maximum-allowed $6,600 to Kennedy’s campaign when he was running in the Democratic primary. Shanahan has also donated to Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, and Marianna Williamson.

Finally, in non-political news, the nation was stunned by the early-Tuesday-morning collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland. A freight ship appears to have lost power while attempting to pass under the bridge, instead colliding with one of the support cars, instantly

Local

Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) (pictured left) has introduced a bipartisan bill with Congressman Mike Levin (D, CA49) that would make it illegal for “political campaigns to use pre-checked boxes to solicit recurring contributions.”

“As the former Suffolk County Elections Commissioner, I’ve prioritized integrity, transparency, and accountability in our political system. Pre-checking the box for recurring contributions is deceptive and unethical and it undermines democratic principles,” said LaLota. “Americans should freely choose their contributions without coercion or trickery and ending automatic recurring contributions is vital to restoring trust in our politics. This bipartisan legislation is a step in the right direction.”

LaLota also cosponsored H.R. 6610, the Passport System Reform and Backlog Prevention Act, which passed the House with bipartisan support. The legislation would reduce passport processing times, address backlogs, and “bolster the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs’ processing capabilities to streamline the application and processing experience for American travelers.”

Finally, LaLota also secured $1 million for drinking water infrastructure for the Town of Riverhead. The funding comes from the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations, which was recently signed into law. The money will fund the “extension of 37,000 feet of public water main and the connection of 90 homes located south and east of the former Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant at Calverton.” Groundwater in Riverhead has been contaminated and residents currently do not have access to clean drinking water.

“The Town’s intent to fully address the important need to provide potable water to our residents has been repeatedly supported by our elected federal public officials at the behest of the entire Riverhead Town Board and with strong public support,” said Riverhead Town Supervisor Tim Hubbard (R-Aquebogue).

Ronkonkoma Holds St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The parade’s Grand Marshal was Greg Plante, president of Outercounty Construction Corp., started in 1986 and located at 2229 Pine Avenue in Ronkonkoma. His Deputy Grand Marshals were Kenneth Lukas and Robert DeRosso, and the Ambassadors were Thomas Healy, Sheila Carpenter, and Rich Poska.

Vehicles and personnel from the Holtsville, Lakeland, Nesconset, and Ronkonkoma Fire Departments provided the crowd with up-closeand-personal looks of their everyday trucks, as well as some vintage automobiles.

Girl Scout Troops 92, 3787, 2122, 47, 1081, and 3849 marched in the parade, as well as Boy Scout Troop 272 and Cub Scouts Pack 48.

Local sports teams included the members of the Sachem Sports Club Cheerleading Team, who were national champions in the National High School Cheerleading Championship last month, placing first in the Traditional Recreational Affiliated-12U division, as well as the Connetquot Ravens Fall 2023 Division Soccer Champions.

Other floats and participants consisted of: The St. Regis Council of the Ronkonkoma Knights of Columbus, Post #4651, and the Columbiettes of the same chapter; the Rotary Club of the Ronkonkomas; the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce, with President Ed McNamara in attendance; MulvihillLynch Irish Dance Studio, of Lake Ronkonkoma; St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Pope Pius XII Council #17159; AMVets Post #48; members of the Long Island Group of the Civil Air Patrol; St. Mary’s Episcopal Church; Get

Chopped, the Mobile Barber Bus; New York Cancer and Blood Specialists; Briguglio Quality Irrigation and Lawn Care Services; Long Island American Bikers for Awareness, Training, and Education (ABATE); Founding Sons LE/MV MC; Daniel O’Brien Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning; Roof Tech N.Y.; Deepwells Haunted Mansion; L.I. Diesel Guys; members of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority; Ratchet Industries; New York Power Solutions; Strong Island Derby Revolution; SoBol Ronkonkoma; Perry’s Florist; Woody’s Exterminating; and Van’s Tree Service.

Elected officials included Assemblyman Doug Smith (R-Holbrook), who represents the Brookhaven-Islip split Fifth District, Brookhaven Town Councilman Neil Manzella (R-Selden), of the Third Council District, and Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy (R-Nesconset).

Sponsors of the parade were Ronkonkoma Rotary Club, Flanagan’s Pub, Tobins Pub, Home Towne Tavern, Shenanigans, Lake House, Frogzz Saloon, Conquer Exterminating, Relations Auto Body and Towing, and Tri-State Moving Service.

Smithtown MessengerBrookhaven MessengerIslip Messenger -

Hauppauge Robotic Eagles Place at Regional Competition

Hauppauge High School’s FIRST Robotics team participated in the FIRST Robotics Hudson Valley Regional Competition. Out of 48 participating teams, the Hauppauge Robotic Eagles, team 358, came in 18th place.

The team, working with an alliance of two other robots, made it all the way to the semifinals. The Hauppauge Robotic Eagles were also named fifth best

for autonomous mode, where the robot was able to score points entirely off of the student programmed mode.

The team looks forward to competing in the Long Island Regional Competition at Hofstra University from March 21-23. The district congratulates the team and their two advisers, Sal Sparacino and Casey Collins, both Hauppauge High School, and FIRST Robotics alumni.

Sachem High School North Announces Top of the Class of 2024

Sachem High School North proudly announces the top of the Class of 2024. Congratulations to valedictorian Avi Talsania and salutatorian Ryan DeSimone.

Valedictorian Avi Talsania has demonstrated a passion for academics, specifically in science research. During his high school years, Talsania participated in the Columbia Science Honors Program and the science research program at High School North. This past year, Talsania completed research as part of the Garcia Summer Research Internship Program at Stony Brook, as well as at Yale University’s Haskin Laboratories. He has taken numerous Advanced Placement courses and was named a National Merit Commended Scholar for his achievement on the PSAT exam. Talsania is involved in several extracurriculars at High School North. He is the founder and president of the HOSA chapter for future healthcare professionals and placed in the statewide HOSA competition. Additionally, Talsania serves as a co-president of the DECA club and qualified to attend the international DECA competition as a junior. His involvement extends into the fine arts where he is an accomplished flautist. This year, Talsania was named an alternate for the All-State festival.

Talsania is involved in the greater Sachem community. He has hundreds of hours of shadowing experience at several medical offices including Desire Dental Care, Eye Vision Associates, NY Cancer and Blood Institute and Mid-Suffolk Neurology and Sleep Medicine. He also serves as an outreach administrator and volunteer coach at the Northsouth Foundation.

Salutatorian Ryan DeSimone is a well-rounded student and is actively engaged in the school community. His academic excellence and high achievement in several Advanced Placement courses earned him acceptance into various honor societies as well as the National Society of High School Scholars. DeSimone is a recipient of an AP Capstone Diploma and was named an AP Scholar with Distinction. In addition to academic-based extracurriculars, DeSimone is a member of the Sachem robotics team, interact club and DECA club, where he was named a regional winner for business services marketing. Additionally, DeSimone is an advanced piano and clarinet player and has performed in multiple statewide NYSSMA festivals, while also being a member of the jazz band at High School North.

Outside of the classroom, DeSimone dedicates time to benefit the community. He is a Sibshops facilitator, providing guidance in a recreational setting for young siblings of children with special needs. Additionally, he worked as a camp counselor at Hidden Pond Day Camp, supervising children while fostering friendships and providing a safe environment. His service has

impacted the greater community – in 2023, DeSimone expanded upon his AP Research paper to contribute to a local rally for the New York State budget.

Sachem High School North congratulates both Talsania and DeSimone for their remarkable achievements while in Sachem and wishes them the best in their future endeavors.

Connetquot High School’s HighScoring Seniors Join ‘1500 Club’

Connetquot High School seniors Varshith Basa, Victoria Douglas, Devin Elster, and Rhea Shetty each scored higher than 1500 on the SAT exam.

This impressive accomplishment earned the students spots in the school’s “1500 Club,” and their plaques will join those of alumni club members, hanging outside the guidance office. The district congratulates them on this well-deserved achievement.

West Islip Senior Named Lincoln Scholar

Anna Kalinowski, a senior in the International Baccalaureate program at West Islip High School in the West Islip Union Free School District, was awarded the Abraham Lincoln merit scholarship at Gettysburg College in the amount of $41,000 annually.

The Lincoln Scholars Program is a dynamic educational experience that connects students academically and socially to a community of scholars. Students work alongside world-class faculty and are exposed to experiences that help them further develop their intellectual potential. At its core, the Lincoln Scholars Program is a mentorship program that promotes academic excellence, personal growth and professional development.

East Islip Mock Trial Team Finishes in Top Eight in Suffolk County

East Islip High School’s mock trial team had an exciting and highly successful 2023-2024 season, winning rounds against West Islip, Babylon, Kings Park, and Deer Park and qualifying for the playoffs. They won the Sweet 16 on March 13, then advanced to the Suffolk County quarterfinals on March 20, where East Islip finished in the top eight in the county.

The New York State High School Mock Trial Program is an educational competition in which high school students gain firsthand knowledge of law and courtroom procedures while acting as attorneys and witnesses in a criminal trial. East Islip social studies teacher Patsy Lester established the team in 2000 and has coached East Islip every year since with the help of attorney and East Islip resident Brian C. Mitchell. EI graduates who participated in mock trial have gone on to compete in college mock trial for top colleges and universities, and many have gone on to law school and successful careers in law.

“This was one of the most talented groups I have ever had,” Lester said. “I was so impressed by their performance and couldn’t be prouder if they were state champs. I’m looking forward to next year already. We are especially grateful that Superintendent Manzo and Assistant Superintendent Belz came to watch the playoff round at District Court on March 20.”

America the Beautiful: How History Shapes our Electorate Long Island - Strong Island

By Matt Meduri

For the penultimate article in this column, we feel it’s necessary to review the history and politics of Long Island as if it were its own state. A truly anomalous region compared to similar areas of the country, Long Island has outsized influence on the national political stage.

Early History and Revolutionary WarA Crucial Battleground

Long Island was first explored by Europeans with the arrival of Giovanni de Verrazzano in 1524. The western portion of Long Island was settled by the Dutch, who called it ‘t Lange Eylandt, which translates to “the long island.” The Dutch were also the first settlers of Manhattan and Staten Island. Plymouth Colony laid a claim to Long Island but did not settle it, and Charles I of England gave the Island to William Alexander. Alexander would obtain Shelter Island and Robins Island and then sell most of eastern Long Island to New Haven and Connecticut colonies.

The English settled in Southold in 1636, followed by Lion Gardiner, who would purchase an island from the Montaukett people, which would later become known as Gardiner’s Island. Gardiner’s Island has been owned by the family, is one of the largest private islands in the country, and produced Julia Gardiner Tyler, the First Lady of the United States to President John Tyler (Whig-VA). Southold remained under the jurisdiction of Connecticut until 1674. England took control of New York from the Dutch in 1673, while the Towns of Southold, Southampton, and East Hampton would not submit to the new rule, a problem that was quickly defused by the British and the Connecticut Colony.

Long Island would play host to the largest battle of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of Long Island. Long Island was controlled by the English crown for much of the war. Primarily rooted in Kings County - now Brooklyn - the battle saw espionage and raids across the Long Island Sound. Arguably the most famous contribution from Long Island was that of George Washington and Benjamin Tallmadge’s Culper Spy Ring, which was instrumental in uncovering Benedict Arnold’s betrayal of the United States with his intention of handing over the American fort at West Point, among other findings.

A famous landmark of the Culper Spy Ring was that of Roe Tavern in Setauket, where Washington spent the night in April of 1790, as Austin Roe, the innkeeper, was one of his spies during the war.

Sag Harbor also played host to a famous raid in eastern Long Island in 1777, as colonists carried out raids against the British using whaleboats across the Long Island Sound.

Industrialization and Twentieth Century PoliticsA Republican Machine

Long Island, as well as New York, had modest slave populations until laws gradually instilling abolition passed in 1799, with the last Long Island slaves freed in 1827. Long Island has always been home to small family farms and an industrial economy, as was primarily the case in the Northern states. The demand for slavery on Long Island was markedly less than it was in the South. No Civil War battles were fought on Long Island, but camps and regiments trained and housed soldiers before they headed south. Long Island felt the positive and negative economic effects of the war, from manufacturing war materials, to feeling the disruption of commerce due to shortages and interruptions of the shipping industry.

Long Island was still mostly agricultural and rural going into the 1800s, as suburbanization started with wealthy New Yorkers looking for new, quick ways to commute from Brooklyn Heights into New York City. Steam ferries and streetcar lines began to tie southern Kings and Queens counties together. The Long Island Rail Road began in 1836 as a ferry-to-rail route from Manhattan to Greenport, with connections to Boston as well. The LIRR is the oldest railroad in the country still operating under its original name and charter. As the “Gateway to Boston,” the LIRR would easily set the stage for suburbanization on Long Island.

The construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883 finally connected Long Island to the rest of the United States. Long Island was originally home to three counties: Kings,

Queens, and Suffolk. In 1898, Kings and Queens were incorporated into the City of Greater New York, which abolished all cities and towns within them. The eastern 280 square miles of Queens County was not part of the plan, which formed into a new county, Nassau County, in 1899.

Both Nassau and Suffolk counties were controlled by the Republican Party for most of their histories. Since the advent of the Republican Party in the 1856 election, Suffolk has backed Democrats at the presidential level only nine times: 1976, 1884, 1912, 1964, and the five elections from 1996 to 2012. Its distinct Republican lean is derived from its cultural alignment with the classical Yankee liberalism of New England, combined with distinct economic and industrial development as an advantage of its proximity to New York City. Of all elections going back to 1884, the GOP only had three elections within ten points: 1888, 1976, and 1992, the latter of which was affected by Ross Perot’s (ITX) 21% of the vote. In short, the GOP had a firm hold on Suffolk County.

Since Nassau’s first election in 1900, it has backed Democrats ten times: 1912, 1964, and in every election from 1992 to 2020. Like Suffolk, Nassau was won by Woodrow Wilson (D-NJ) in 1912 due to the vote-splitting between native son Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft (R-OH). Both counties were won by Lyndon Johnson (D-TX) in his 1964 national landslide over Barry Goldwater (R-AZ).

With Bill Clinton’s (D-AR) watershed 1992 election, working-class and classically liberal voters realigned with the Democratic Party, pushing states like Connecticut, Maine, and New Jersey to be consistently blue states today. Since New York was already a blue state at that point, the realignment of Long Island was less pronounced.

A point that is incredibly unique to Long Island is that of the relationship between organized labor and the Republican Party. Even in Franklin D. Roosevelt’s (DNY) four wins in New York - and nationally - he failed to carry both Suffolk and Nassau. This was mostly due to Long Island’s separation from the corruption and gamesmanship of NYC’s Tammany Hall. As many from the City moved to Long Island, as well as many ethnic groups, the Island’s population exploded, and with it, the need for work and organized labor.

Labor leaders and politicians mimicked the playbook from Tammany Hall and created a strong base of ancestral voting by recruiting then-discriminated-against Italian Americans from NYC. In short, political support turned into jobs, jobs turned into permanent residence, and permanent residence allowed for generational support of the GOP. Unions still hold outsized influence on Long Island, and as organized labor appears to be flirting with the GOP on a national level in the era of Trump, it has only helped swing Suffolk and Nassau back to the right.

Geography - Strong Island

1. Kings County - Home to Brooklyn; Democrats can usually rely on 70% of the vote here in any given election. Since the advent of the GOP, Kings has backed them only six times since 1896, the last being in 1924. Some southern neighborhoods, such as Park Slope and Bensonhurst, have been trending red, flipped by Curtis Sliwa (R) in the 2021 NYC Mayoral race and consolidated by Lee Zeldin (R-Shirley) in the 2022 gubernatorial election. As the GOP looks to court Jewish and Asian voters, margins in Brooklyn will be key to seeing how those efforts play out.

2. Queens County - Home to Queens Borough, the least Democratic of the four solidly blue Boroughs. Home to JFK and LGA airports and notable neighborhoods such as Jamaica and Flushing, Queens is one of the most diverse

This is the fifty-seventh 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.

parts of the country. Queens has backed the GOP presidential candidate eleven times since 1872, most recently in 1972 for Richard Nixon (R-CA). Zeldin scored an impressive 40% of the vote here in 2022, a margin that the GOP will certainly attempt to repeat and expand upon to make New York more competitive.

3. Nassau County - One of the wealthiest counties in the nation, Nassau is home to two cities - Long Beach and Glen Cove - the four Towns of Oyster Bay, Hempstead, Massapequa, and North Hempstead, as well as 64 villages and 60 hamlets. Nassau is Democratic-leaning at the presidential level but is much more Republican down ballot.

4. Western Suffolk - Home to the Towns of Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown; all except Babylon are at least Republican-leaning. Republicans have solid locks on the quaint Smithtown on the North Shore, working-class Islip on the South Shore, and sprawling, diverse Brookhaven in the center of the county. Western Suffolk is home to Congressmen Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) and Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport) and is the base of the working-class population in Suffolk County.

5. Eastern Suffolk - Home to the five Towns of East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Southampton, and Southold; more Democratic-leaning overall. Home to the lion’s share of Suffolk’s agriculture, snowbird communities, fisheries, tourism, and prime real estate. East Hampton, home to Montauk, Sag Harbor, and Gardiner’s Island (by proxy) is the Democratic bastion of Suffolk. Southampton is generally GOP-working-class to the west of the Shinnecock Canal, with upscale Democratic communities to the east. Riverhead is a solid lock for Republicans, while Southold appears to be trending Democratic due to new arrivals from NYC. Southold is home to the famous Plum Island, as well as Fisher’s Island, just several miles off the coast of Connecticut. Shelter Island is a mixed bag entirely, but elected a Republican Supervisor in 2023. Interestingly, Shelter Island is home to New York’s lowest-population village, Dering Harbor, at just 50 people as of 2020. Environmentalism goes far on the East End, creating another unique niche for local Republicans.

Suffolk overall is home to thirty-three villages and over 150 hamlets.

Current Political Leanings - A Red Sandbar

Republicans took control of the County Legislature in 2021 and formed a supermajority in 2023. Ray Tierney (R) was elected District Attorney in 2021, flipping the seat red. Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) became the first Republican to be elected as County Executive in 2023, consolidating total GOP control of all county offices in Suffolk and, in conjunction with Nassau, on Long Island overall for the first time since the 1960s. In 2023, the GOP secured a 5-0 majority on the Huntington Town Board, and County Executive Romaine won Democratic-leaning Babylon by four points. Central Islip and Brentwood are home to considerable Hispanic populations, where rightward shifts among Latino voters have been observed in the Fourth Senate District in 2022 and the Ninth Legislative District in 2023.

The first Nassau County Legislature was seated with a 13-6 Republican majority in 1996, and now-County Executive Bruce Blakeman (R-Atlantic Beach) was the first Presiding Officer. The GOP made major gains in Nassau in 2021 by electing Blakeman as County Executive and they retained the County Legislature, District Attorney, and Comptroller offices. The Town of North Hempstead elected a Republican Supervisor - Jennifer DeSena (R-Manhasset) - for the first time since 1989. In 2023, Republicans defeated three Democratic incumbents on the Long Beach City Council, winning control for the first time in nearly fifteen years.

Long Island has also been home to statehood movements. The unofficial flag was designed by Cesidio Tallini, with the four stars depicting the four counties, and he called the state “Winnecomac.” In 2022, Assemblyman Keith Brown (R-Northport) proposed secession from New York, stating Long Island can be financially independent. Additionally, secession movements also apply to the East End, where the proposed county of Peconic County has been floated for the same idea that Long Island should secede from New York: finances.

As working-class voters, labor unions, and the Latino population, to name a few key demographics, trend Republican nationally, it’s difficult to see where Democrats can quickly take back ground on Long Island. The young, college-educated population is considerable, but due to fundamental gains made by the GOP in such a short period of time, the momentum is truly unparalleled elsewhere. Long Island continues to be a prime battleground and possibly a bellwether for national politics, and as the GOP looks to contend New York in November, Long Island will be ground-zero in that endeavor.

Extraordinary Women Honored by Islip Town Board

March is National Women’s History Month, serving as a poignant reminder of the profound impact women have on their communities and on the lives they touch.

The Town of Islip takes immense pride in recognizing and celebrating the achievements, strength, and resilience of women from all walks of life. Their unwavering dedication, passion, and tireless efforts contribute to the rich tapestry of our Town, making it a better place for everyone.

To celebrate March is Women’s History Month, Town officials honored a few of the outstanding women from the community beginning with Holocaust survivor Edith Gross

Born in Czechoslovakia in 1928, Edith Gross has lived a life of resilience, strength, and unwavering faith. Despite enduring the tragedy of losing her mother at a young age and the horrors of Nazi concentration camps during World War II, Edith never lost her sense of humanity and compassion. Her ability to find light in the darkest of times,

exemplified by her generosity in sharing what she had, even when it was so little, is a testament to her indomitable spirit.

After being liberated by Allied forces, Edith embarked on a journey to rebuild her life, first in Israel and then in America. Overcoming the challenges of learning a new language and finding employment, she went on to create a beautiful family, becoming a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Edith’s legacy extends beyond her family, as she has dedicated herself to educating generations about the Holocaust, sharing her profound story and message of love, kindness, and unity. As the inaugural speaker at the Town of Islip Unity Council Lunchtime Speaker Series, Edith’s words and wisdom have brought light to the world, making her an inspirational figure in our community and beyond.

“For her extraordinary life, tireless efforts, and the indelible mark she has left on countless lives, it is our privilege to recognize Edith Gross,” said Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip).

Dr. Janice McCormack has dedicated over three decades to providing exceptional cardiovascular care to the Islip community. As a highly skilled and compassionate cardiologist at South Bay Cardiovascular Associates, she has touched the lives of countless men and women, offering expert diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care for a wide range of cardiac conditions. Her areas of expertise include echocardiography, cardio-obstetrics, adult congenital disease, and cardio-oncology, showcasing her commitment to staying at the forefront of her field.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. McCormack has made significant contributions to the advancement of women’s heart health. She played a key role in launching the Good Samaritan Hospital Women’s Heart Wellness Program, which focuses on treating women of childbearing age with underlying cardiovascular disease. Her tireless efforts to educate and empower the community through adult lecture series, school health fairs, and local food pantry support demonstrate her unwavering dedication to promoting heart-healthy habits and helping those in need. Dr. McCormack’s outstanding achievements, coupled with her compassion and community involvement, make her a true role model and a deserving recipient of this Women’s History Month recognition.

Barbara Raymond-Obas, a tireless advocate for health equity and social justice, has made a profound mark on the communities she serves. Born and raised in Brooklyn by her single mother, a West Indies immigrant, Barbara learned the value of hard work and the importance of pursuing the American dream from an early age. Working hard to pay for her college education, she earned degrees in both human services and communications, laying the foundation for her impactful career in public health and community activism.

As the Director for Policy Organizational Strategy in the Office of Diversity Equity at FOCUS, Inc., and the Civic Engagement Chair for the NAACP, Barbara has been instrumental in creating policies that have improved the health services of Black and Brown communities, protected voters’ rights, and promoted equal employment opportunities. Her unwavering commitment to uniting the community is evident through her involvement in numerous organizations, such as the NY State Community Action Association, HIV Advisory Board, and Women Diversity Network. Barbara’s leadership in organizing events like the National Week of Prayer, Annual Multicultural Dinner, and Nassau/Suffolk ETE - Suffolk Knows Health Fair, demonstrates her dedication to ending the HIV epidemic, combating stigma, and promoting health screening and testing. Her belief that it takes a village to raise tomorrow’s leaders inspires her tireless efforts to create a more equitable and just society for all.

Phyllis Boccio, a decorated EMT with an impressive thirty-four years of dedicated service to the Holbrook Fire Department, has made significant contributions to her community. Throughout her career, Phyllis has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to saving lives and ensuring the safety of those in need. Her exceptional skills and compassionate nature have earned her numerous accolades, including several Life-Saving Awards from the Holbrook Fire Department and a prestigious Life-Saving Award from the American Red Cross. Phyllis’s expertise and leadership have been invaluable to the department, as evidenced by her roles as Second Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, and Captain, as well as her tireless efforts in mentoring and training incoming EMTs since 1991.

Phyllis’s passion for serving others knows no bounds, as demonstrated by her remarkable response rate and dedication to her duties. In 2023 alone, she responded to an astounding 623 EMS alarms, 86 motor vehicle accidents, and 588 fire alarms, while also participating in 481 ambulance rides. Phyllis’s commitment to her community is truly unparalleled. Even at the age of 80, she continues to re-certify as an EMT, showcasing her lifelong dedication to this noble profession.

Phyllis Boccio’s selfless service, extraordinary achievements, and unwavering devotion to saving lives make her a shining example of the impact one person can have on their community, and a most deserving honoree for our Town’s Women’s History celebration.

Legendary Composer Stephen Schwartz Inducted Into LIMEHOF

The Messenger’s final question to Schwartz was what his advice to young composers, specifically in the film industry, would be.

“I’m still learning,” said Schwartz. “I finally learned Logic and how to link it up to my equipment and instruments. It’s not something I’ve done before, but I’m learning it and having fun with it.”

Logic is a professional-grade software used for composing and syncing music, typically for film and other media.

The Messenger also got to speak with the drummer for the original stage production of Godspell, Rick Shutter.

“It was like being shot out of a cannon,” said Shutter, describing what it felt like to be part of such a hit musical at just nineteen years old. “One of the actresses, Joanne Jonas, recommended me to Steve. I auditioned for him in my house in Malverne and got the gig.”

Shutter played drums for all applicable numbers at Saturday night’s variety show in honor of Schwartz on the second floor of the Hall.

In attendance also was pianist Paul Shaffer, who had a lengthy career as the musical director and band leader for Late Night with David Letterman (1982-1993) and Late Show with David Letterman (1993-2015).

Shaffer began his career in 1972 when Schwartz invited him to be the musical director for the Toronto production of Godspell, which starred Victor Garber, Gilda Radner, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Dave Thomas, and Andrea Martin. Shaffer played piano for Schwartz’s Broadway show The Magic Show in 1974 and then became a member of the house band on NBC’s Saturday Night Live.

Shaffer told the story of how he was not looking for a job, but just happened to have Schwartz overhear him playing the piano.

“I had just gotten out of college in Toronto. I was accompanying friends of mine who were auditioning for Godspell, and I played one song for a girlfriend of mine, and Stephen Schwartz said, ‘I want to talk to that piano player,’” Shaffer told The Messenger. “And he said, ‘can you stay for the rest of the day and play the auditions?’ And I did. And at the end of the day, he said, ‘do you think you could get a band together and conduct a show?’ I’d never done anything like that in my

life. So, Steven Schwartz heard me play a little bit and hired me, and then he brought me to New York after that to play for him in The Magic Show on Broadway in 1974. So, if it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t even be here tonight.”

Shaffer played the piano for several numbers at Saturday night’s show.

Carrie St. Louis, who played Glinda in the Broadway and national touring productions of Wicked from 2014 to 2016, told The Messenger that in addition to Schwartz, her biggest inspiration has been Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd

“Stephen is just so incredible and I feel very lucky to be able to honor him today,” said St. Louis. She performed a rendition of “Popular” and “For Good,” the latter of which she performed with Teal Wicks, who played Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in several productions of Wicked.

“Two of my biggest career moments have been in Stephen’s shows,” Wicks told The Messenger, referring to Pippin and Wicked. “He has a brilliant ear for beautiful ear-worn melodies that can lodge into your brain. But then he also has such a huge breadth of other musical vocabulary, whether it’s jazz and blues, classical, or whether it’s like Prince of Egypt. He takes different worlds and combines them into these incredibly catchy songs.”

Dale Soules, who performed in The Magic Show in 1974 said that Schwartz is “the only composer I’ve ever worked who sat down and taught me the song himself.”

The tribute show consisted of numbers from Godspell, Wicked, The Magic Show, and Pocahontas. Schwartz himself performed a new number for his upcoming musical with Kristen Chenowth, The Queen of Versailles

Band members from the original Godspell show were able to perform several numbers from the play, and the entire company closed with the curtain call of Day By Day

“This was so very moving for me,” Schwartz told the crowd after his formal induction. “This means so much to me as a Long Island boy.”

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at 97 Main Street in Stony Brook at the easternmost end of the Stony Brook Village Center.

Suffolk County Executive Romaine Announces Launch of the Water Quality Grant Program

In honor of World Water Day, which was March 22, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) announced that the Suffolk County Water Quality Protection and Restoration Program and Land Stewardship Initiatives, known as WQPRP, will accept applications for 2024 starting on April 1, 2024.

“This program is an effective tool in our ongoing work to clean and protect Suffolk County waters,” Romaine said. “It is unique in the way it brings Towns, Villages, and the not-for-profit environmental community together with the County to work on projects that make an impact locally and regionally.”

WQPRP is a grant program funded under the Suffolk County quarter-percent Drinking Water Protection Program pursuant to Article XII of the Suffolk County Charter and uses 11.75% of the total revenues generated each calendar year under the quarter-percent Drinking Water Protection Program to provide grant funding to municipalities and non-profit organizations for projects to protect and restore the County’s groundwater and surface water resources.

Eligible projects must be recommended for funding by the WQPRP Review Committee and approved by the Suffolk County Legislature.

For more information on the application process contact wqprp@suffolkcountyny.gov.

Municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, and Suffolk County Departments can apply for projects such as:

• Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control and Pollution Prevention Initiatives

• Habitat Restoration, Reclamation, and Connectivity

• Land Stewardship Initiatives

• No-Discharge Zone Implementation

• Education and Outreach

Applications will be accepted through June 1, 2024. Applications from 2023 will be rolled over and considered along with any new applications that are received.

The launch of 2024 application process coincides with World Water Day, an annual day of observance recognized globally by the United Nations that raises awareness for clean water worldwide.

“This program is an effective tool in our ongoing work to clean and protect Suffolk County waters. “It is unique in the way it brings Towns, Villages, and the not-for-profit environmental community together with the County to work on projects that make an impact locally and regionally.”

– Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine

Suffolk and Nassau County Republican Committees Endorse Donald J. Trump for President

Suffolk and Nassau County Republican Chairmen Jesse Garcia and Joseph G. Cairo, Jr., have endorsed Donald J. Trump (R-FL) for President.

“President Trump won Suffolk in 2016, we were the largest county in America to vote for him in 2020,” said Garcia (pictured right). “And we will make sure he wins big once again on November 5.”

“Nassau County has turned solidly ‘RED’ in recent years, embracing the sound and sensible governmental policies of President Trump,” stated Cairo. “We are eager to be part of a resounding election day victory for Donald Trump in 2024.”

“Suffolk County residents are feeling the pain of the Biden agenda,” said Garcia. “We stand ready to help put leaders in office who will once again put Suffolk and America First. Only with a Trump Presidency will we have a secure Southern border, foreign policy with peace through strength, and a reversal of the economic hardships created by the Biden administration.”

“The choice for President is clear in 2024,” observed Cairo. “Neighbors who are concerned about crime, safety, taxes and the economy support President Trump. Donald J. Trump will secure the border and put an end to Joe Biden’s sanctuary city policies, which have made communities less safe. What’s more, Donald Trump will fix Biden’s broken economy and provide meaningful tax relief for working families.”

“We cannot afford four more years of the crime and deadly drugs like fentanyl flowing into our communities,” stated Garcia. “The contrast this November could never be clearer. While President Trump was in office, he personally came to Suffolk County for a roundtable on gang violence, which led to bold policies and decisive action that indisputably made our streets safer. This is the leadership we need and deserve.”

“The future of our nation is on the ballot this November,” announced Cairo (pictured right). “Our nation is facing unprecedented dangers abroad and at home because of the weak and directionless policies of Joe Biden. President Trump is the only candidate for the White House who fully supports the right of Israel to defend itself against terrorists, and our world was a safer place under Donald Trump. We need President Trump today more than ever.”

“Americans from all walks of life are waking up to the nightmare of Democrat rule, said Garcia. “Donald Trump is building a powerful coalition, including longtime Democrat voters who are abandoning blind partisan loyalties. We all know the stakes. The Suffolk County Republican Committee looks forward to doing its part to take back the White House and save this great country.”

“President Donald J. Trump has the full backing of the Suffolk County Republican Committee,” concluded Garcia.

“The Nassau County Republican Committee is proud to wholeheartedly endorse Donald J. Trump for President of the United States,” added Cairo.

Kennedy’s St. Paddy’s Day Bash

A fundraiser was held last week for Suffolk County Comptroller (R-Nesconset) at Napper Tandy’s in Smithtown. The “St. Paddy’s Day Bash” featured a packed house of supporters and featured guests such as County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches), Smithtown Supervisor Ed Werheim (R, Kings Park) Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo (R-Nesconset), Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy (R-Nesconset), and Smithtown Republican Chairman Bill Ellis.

Origin:

Middle English: via Old French from Latin austerus, from Greek austēros ‘severe’.

Source: Oxford Languages

Synonyms: stern, harsh, unfriendly

Adjective

Pronounced: aa·steer

Definition: severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance.

Example: “The job interview was especially intimidating due to the hiring manager’s austere demeanor.”

Antonyms: genial, approachable, cordial

Hauppauge High School presents ‘Peter Pan’

Photography by Frank Bayer

Hauppauge High School’s fine and performing arts department took audience members to the magical world of Neverland with their production of “Peter Pan” on March 1 and 2. The classic tale of three siblings Wendy, John and Michael and their adventures with the boy who never grows up and the Lost Boys had attendees enjoying a show filled with fairies, mermaids and pirates.

If you have a Christening, Communion, Bar Mitzvah, or would just like photos of your child’s sporting event or family party, reach out to Frank at fbayerphotos@gmail.com for rates and availability!

Brown: COVID-19 Claimed 80,000 NY Lives

Since 2020 – This Death Toll is Not to Be Taken Lightly

New York State legislators convened in Albany to address the fouryear anniversary of the COVID-19 Pandemic and New York’s mandate that forced COVID-19-positive patients into nursing homes across the state.

“I am very proud Congressman Molinaro (R, NY-19) and my colleagues from both the Assembly and Senate Republican Conferences have come together to call for an independent COVID-19 study to be done,” said Assemblyman Keith Brown (R-Northport). “Families and individuals throughout our state were impacted in some capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic—daily life changed significantly, and many loved ones were lost.”

in infected nursing homes, on the frontlines as essential workers or in over-crowded hospitals. It’s extremely important we review our state’s response to the pandemic, so we can better prepare for similar situations should they arise,” Brown concluded. “Identifying the mistakes that were made since the pandemic began in March of 2020 could prevent COVID-related casualties on such a large scale from occurring in the future.”

Legislator Flotteron Recognizes America’s Boating Club of the GSB’s Commander

Legislator Steven J. Flotteron (R-Brightwaters) recognized America’s Boating Club of the Great South Bay’s Commander James M. Milton, JN, a member since 2007, on being re-elected for the fourth time at the Annual Change of Watch Ceremony at the Ancient Order of Hibernians in East Islip.

“It’s surreal that today marks the four-year anniversary of the infamous order issued by the New York State Department of Health, which required nursing homes to accept COVID-positive patients,” Brown continued. “Our state owes the thousands of grieving families who lost family members and friends answers.”

“80,000 New Yorkers did not have to die during the pandemic, whether

Assemblyman Keith Brown represents the Twelfth District in the New York State Assembly. The Twelfth District spans across the Towns of Babylon, Huntington, and Islip, containing the hamlets of Baywood, Centerport, Cold Spring Harbor, East Northport, Eaton’s Neck, Elwood, Greenlawn, Halesite, and the villages of Asharoken, Huntington Bay, Lloyd Harbor, and Northport. The district also includes parts of Commack, Dix Hills, Deer Park, Fort Salonga, and North Bay Shore

For more information about Assemblyman Keith Brown, please visit his official Assembly website https://nyassembly.gov/mem/KeithP-Brown/

A unit of The United States Power Squadrons, promoting safe boating through education, James M. Milton, has been very active in many phases of Squadron work earning 17 merit marks based on dedication and work he has successfully completed. He founded and is the Team Leader of the Squadron Emergency Response Team, whose mission is to provide on-water emergency support on the Great South Bay and has been Captain and Team Leader since its inception. He is also the Chairman of the National Member Benefits Committee, recently being awarded the Dominic Segrete Award for going above and beyond for District 3.

Legislator Steve Flotteron (R-Brightwaters) has represented the Eleventh District in the Suffolk County Legislature since 2018. The Eleventh District includes parts of North Babylon and West Babylon within Babylon Township, as well as Brightwaters, Fire Island, Ocean

Brentwood Students Celebrated for STEM Challenge Achievement

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip) kicked off the March Town Board meeting by recognizing two exceptional students from Brentwood High School, Alisha Ahsan and Stephanie Pizano, for their outstanding achievements in the National STEM Challenge.

These talented seniors have been named among the 125 champions of the prestigious competition, which showcases their innovative solutions to the pressing issue of nitrogen pollution in Long Island waters.

Alisha Ahsan, a 17-year-old from Bay Shore, has made a remarkable impact with her research on the effects of nitrogen pollution on eelgrass. Her proposed method to help restore the declining sea grass by gluing seeds onto live shellfish, has the potential to make a significant difference in the health of Long Island’s marine ecosystem. Alisha’s project has not only earned her a place among the champions of the National STEM Challenge, but also an opportunity to present her research at the Long Island Sound Summit.

Stephanie Pizano, an 18-year-old from Brentwood, has invented a groundbreaking filter designed to reduce nitrogen pollution from fertilizer runoff and septic waste. Her innovative solution has the potential to positively impact the water quality of Long Island’s bays and harbors. Stephanie’s dedication to her research has not only earned her recognition as a champion in the National STEM Challenge, but also a chance to compete in the International Science & Engineering Fair in Los Angeles.

The success of Alisha and Stephanie is a testament to the exceptional work being done by the educators and mentors at Brentwood High School. The research program, led by educator and scientist Rebecca Grella, has consistently produced high-achieving students who have gone on to make significant contributions to the field of science.

“We are so proud of the outstanding work being done by Brentwood High School’s students and educators, and we congratulate them on their continued success,” said Supervisor Angie Carpenter.

Beach, Saltaire, West Bay Shore, West Islip, and parts of Bay Shore, Captree, and Islip hamlet within Islip Township.

Legislator Flotteron is the Deputy Presiding Officer of the Legislature and serves as the Chair of the Public Safety Committee, Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, and serves on the Committees on Education and Diversity; Government Operations, Personnel, and Information Technology; and Ways and Means.

The Eleventh District is located at 4 Udall Road, Suite 4, in West Islip and can be reached at 631-854-4100.

Huntington Native Stephen Woods, Jr., Returns

The Long Island Ducks today announced the signing of righthanded pitcher Stephen Woods, Jr. He returns for his first season with the Ducks and seventh in professional baseball.

“Stephen impressed us a lot as part of our starting rotation in 2023,” said Ducks Manager Lew Ford. “We look forward to having him back on the mound for us this season.”

Woods, Jr., made eleven starts for the Ducks during the 2023 season. He posted a 7-2 record with a 3.77 ERA and 60 strikeouts to 27 walks over 59.2 innings of work. The Huntington native was named the Atlantic League’s CoPitcher of the Month for April/May after going 4-0 with a 3.03 ERA and 31 strikeouts in six starts. He was also voted by ALPB managers to the league’s Ballpark Digest Mid-Season All-Star team. Woods Jr.’s contract was then purchased by the Fubon Guardians of the Chinese Professional Baseball League on July 5. At the time of his departure, he ranked second in the league in wins, fourth in strikeouts and eighth in ERA.

The 28-year-old has previous experience pitching in the Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays and San Francisco Giants organizations. He reached Triple-A Omaha with the Royals in 2022 and went 2-0 with a 4.28 ERA in 41 appearances that year combined

between Omaha and Double-A Northwest Arkansas. A graduate of Half Hollow Hills East High School in Dix Hills, he was named an MiLB. com Organization All-Star in 2017 after posting a 2.95 ERA and 113 strikeouts in 110.0 innings across 23 starts with Augusta (A, Giants). Woods, Jr., was originally selected by the Giants in the eighth round of the 2016 amateur draft.

The Ducks are entering their 24th season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip. 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)

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

Celebrating its third decade, the Atlantic League is Major League Baseball’s first Professional Partner League, a player gateway to the major leagues, and a leader in baseball innovation. Over its 25-year history, the ALPB has sent over 1,400 players to MLB organizations while drawing over 47 million fans to its familyfriendly ballparks. Please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.

MLB Goes International

By James Haupt

It was a unique start of the season for the MLB this year as it hosted the Seoul series from March 17-21. This was a two-game series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres at the Gocheok SkyDome in Seoul, making this the first-ever MLB game in Korea. The games were part of the 2024 MLB World Tour, including trips to London, Mexico City, and Santo Domingo.

Fans of the MLB may not have realized that the season has technically already begun. The Seoul Series marked the start of the season despite Opening Day taking place this Thursday, March 28. The two games began at 6:05 EST on their respective days.

There were six total games throughout the week with four of them being exhibition matches. The Dodgers scrimmaged the Kiwoom Heroes while the Padres scrimmaged the LG Twins, and both teams played against Team Korea.

The last two matches were between the two Major League teams and counted as the first official games of the 2024 season. Game 1 took place on Wednesday, March 20, and resulted in a 5-2 Dodgers victory. The second game was a high-scoring battle that saw the Padres win 15-11, giving both teams a record of 1-1 to start the year.

The stars on both teams exceeded expectations in this opening series. Dodgers OF Mookie Betts had the best performance batting 6-9 with 2 walks, 1 home run, and 7 total RBIs over the two games.

Padres third baseman and designated hitter Manny Machado

was quiet throughout the series until he made a late impact in Game 2 with a monster 3-RBI home run to seal the win.

Other notable players include Dodgers Catcher Will Smith and Padres 1B Jake Cronenworth. Smith went 4-6 in the second game with 2 RBIs. Cronenworth had a terrific 4-4 performance in the same game in which he recorded a triple and 4 RBIs.

One of the most exciting stories was the Dodger debut for Shohei Ohtani and the team and MLB debut for Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Both players signed tremendous contracts in the offseason that broke records and made LA clear World Series favorites.

Ohtani had a decent showing in two games, batting .300 with 2 RBIs and 1 stolen base. Yamamoto had a rough start to his career, allowing 5 runs in his first inning, and then being pulled out. It’s difficult to immediately adjust to the MLB after pitching in Japan, but it was still exciting to see Yamamoto take the mound for the first time.

This series is a representation of the MLB’s efforts to expand the game on a global scale. Baseball has a massive fanbase all over the world, making it important for the MLB to branch out and interact beyond the U.S.

The next international series will take place in Mexico City from April 27-28 between the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies. Fans around the globe look forward to more of these international games as the MLB continues to impact the whole world.

Image by freepik

By Matt Meduri

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) prides itself on preserving pieces of musical history, artifacts, and memorabilia, as well as inducting Long Islanders who have had significant impacts on culture through their music.

The Hall is no stranger to prestigious guest appearances, often involving their inductees. The Hall is currently displaying a Billy Joel retrospective display, a walkable exhibition that takes the guest from the beginning of Joel’s career to his current musical endeavors.

But LIMEHOF hosted a different figure of legendary status for his late but well-deserved induction in the Hall: Broadway and film composer Stephen Schwartz.

Born in New York City in 1948, Schwartz’s family moved to Williston Park, Nassau County, and Schwartz graduated from Mineola High School in 1964.

Schwartz is perhaps best known for his lyrics and composition for the hit Broadway musicals Godspell (1971), Pippin (1972), and The Magic Show (1974). By age twenty-six, Schwartz had three hit musicals running simultaneously on Broadway.

Schwartz would also collaborate with other renowned composers of his time, including Leonard Bernstein, for whose Mass he would compose the lyrics, and Alan Menken, for whose orchestral scores he would provide lyrics for Disney hits Pocahontas (1995), with the notable song being “Colors of the Wind,” and The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996). Schwartz would also provide numbers for Dreamworks’ first animated feature The Prince of Egypt (1998), with the finale number “When You Believe” earning him an Academy Award.

Schwartz would return to Broadway in 2003 to compose music and lyrics for the hit musical Wicked. He would later rejoin Menken at Disney to provide lyrics for the 2007 film Enchanted

Schwartz has been involved in screen adaptations of his stage productions and is currently scoring the music for the film adaptation of Wicked, slated for release later this year.

Schwartz is also credited as a composer and lyricist for

The Baker’s Wife (1976), Children of Eden (1991), and Geppetto (2000), and as a lyricist for Rags (1986).

Schwartz’s induction into LIMEHOF was slated for 2020, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The induction ceremony took place at the Hall on Saturday, March 23. In addition to the guest of honor himself making the trip out to Stony Brook, a company of talented actors and musicians from the stage and screen performed some of Schwartz’s most well-known numbers. Performers primarily consisted of people who have worked closely with Schwartz over his five-decade-long career.

The Messenger had the rare opportunity to not only be treated to performances by such professionals, but was also able to chat with Stephen Schwartz and discuss his beginnings, inspirations, and future plans.

“My parents were very excited to hear that I’m finally being inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame,” Schwartz told the press. “They feel like I finally made it. There’s something special about Long Island; it’s where I’m from.”

When asked if he remembers the first time he sat down to write a song, Schwartz described hearing his neighbor, famous Broadway composer George Kleinsinger, play his compositions.

“When I was about six or seven, I was able to go over to the piano and pick out the tune,” said Schwartz, referencing an early ear for perfect pitch. “After a couple of times, George told my parents that they should get me a piano and put me in lessons.”

Schwartz said his first song was for a puppet show called High Dog that he and his sister created.

Schwartz mentioned an early inspiration for the song “Popular” from Wicked, which was about a cheerleader he had a crush on in high school.

“I always pictured her when I was writing that song,” he said. “I think everybody brings his or her background to what they write.”

Schwartz says he’s always subscribed to the philosophy of “follow your bliss.”

Legendary Composer Stephen Schwartz Inducted Into LIMEHOF

“I was nervous about trying to be in show business and I thought I should probably get a real degree, but my father encouraged me to pursue what I want to pursue,” said Schwartz.

The Messenger inquired about Schwartz’s early musical inspirations.

“My parents took me to see Broadway shows when I was very young,” said Schwartz. “I had a lot of influence from Rodgers and Hammerstein and the old classics.”

Schwartz says that as a classically trained pianist, he had specific affinity for the Russian composers of the Romantic Era, specifically Mussorgsky - known for Pictures at an Exhibition and Boris Godunov - Rachmaninoff - known for his elaborate piano concertos - and Prokofiev - known for his ballet Romeo and Juliet.

“I would also always go back to Beethoven and how he voiced chords, as well as the French impressionists Ravel and Debussy,” Schwartz added.

When we asked what his favorite quote, motto, or words to live by are, Schwartz invoked the wisdom of Jesus, as shown in the musical Godspell, which is an onstage modern adaptation of the Gospel of Matthew.

“Always treat others as you would have them treat you,” said Schwartz. “If everybody in the world just did that, we’d be doing a lot better.”

The Messenger also asked Schwartz of his favorite collaborators with whom he’s worked over the years.

“All of the collaborations have been very meaningful to me,” said Schwartz. “Of course, Alan Menken, he and I are very close friends, and he, in some ways, helped resurrect my career, so I’ve always been grateful to him for that. I’ve also loved my work with Leonard Bernstein and Charles Strouse. I’ve learned an enormous amount from all three of them.”

Schwartz provided the English lyrics for Bernstein’s Mass (1971) and collaborated with Strouse on Rags (1986).

continued on page 16