Islip Messenger Archive Dec. 19, 2024

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Thursday, December 19, 2024 ~ Volume 70 ~ Issue Number 9 ~ $1.00

Heuermann Charged with Murder of 7th Gilgo Victim

By Matt Meduri

Credit - Matt Meduri

The famous cold case that rocked the nation decades ago continues to develop.

Defendant Rex Heuermann is now being charged with second-degree murder for the death of Valerie Mack, the seventh murder allegation he faces in the mounting case against him regarding the Gilgo Beach serial killings.

To date, Heuermann has been charged with the deaths of several other victims, including the “Gilgo Four,” the original four victims found along Gilgo Beach in 2010.

In July 2023, District Attorney Ray Tierney (R) made the stunning announcement that, at long last, a suspect had been identified. At that time, Tierney unveiled the first- and second-degree murder charges in relation to Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Lynn Costello.

The “Gilgo Four” charges were complete with a January 16, 2024, superseding indictment that alleges Heuermann is responsible for the death of Maureen Brainard-Barnes.

(Above) D.A. Tierney announces developments in Gilgo Beach case. (Inset) Heuermann.

Continued on page 4

Town of Islip Spreads Cheer with Angel Tree

By Cait Crudden Town of Islip employees embraced the spirit of the season this year, spreading holiday joy through their generous participation in the 2024 Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. More than 60 children, or “Angels,” were adopted by town staff, who thoughtfully selected toys, bicycles, dolls, games, and other gifts from each child’s holiday wish list.

The collected gifts were bundled, labeled, and transported to the Salvation Army headquarters in Northport, where they will soon be distributed to families in need. The Angel Tree Program, a longstanding initiative of the Salvation Army, pairs donors with children who may not otherwise receive gifts during the holidays. This year, Town of Islip employees went above and beyond to ensure that dozens of local children will experience a magical holiday season.

Continued on page 3

(Credit - Town of Islip)

FULLFULL STORIES STORIES ON:

Aldi Opens in Central Islip Page 3

Gandolfo Selected for ON: Leadership Role Page 9

Bergin’s Brief: November 2024 Page 15

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Islip Matters Thursday, December 19, 2024

Continued from front cover

Town of Islip Spreads Cheer with Angel Tree “I am incredibly proud of our Town of Islip employees, who every year go above and beyond to make the holiday season magical for children in need. Their kindness and dedication brought joy to more than 60 children, and truly embodies the spirit of giving and the strength of our community,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip).

Employees eagerly adopt Angels and carefully shop for gifts that match the children’s wish lists. From dolls and action figures to bicycles and board games, town staff delivered an impressive array of presents, ensuring that each child will wake up to a joyful surprise.

This year’s participation highlights the strong sense of compassion and generosity among the town’s workforces. Employees spend weeks coordinating their efforts, bundling and preparing gifts to meet the program’s deadline. Their dedication not only brought happiness to the children but also provided much-needed support to families facing challenges this holiday season.

In addition to the Angel Tree Program, the Town of Islip is continuing its efforts to make the holidays brighter for families in need. The Town’s Youth Bureau is currently hosting its annual Toy Drive and is inviting residents to participate. Those who wish to help can drop off new, unwrapped toys at Town Hall, located at 655 Main St., Islip, or Town Hall West, located at 401 W. Main St., Islip. The collected toys will be distributed to local children, helping make their holidays just a little more special.

The success of the Angel Tree Program and the town’s Toy Drive highlights the community’s commitment to caring for its neighbors during the holiday season. Town officials encourage residents to continue supporting local initiatives and help brighten the lives of families in need.

With more than sixty children receiving gifts through the Angel Tree Program and ongoing efforts through the Toy Drive, the Town of Islip has once again shown the power of generosity and the strength of its community spirit.

PX4 Development is proud to announce the grand opening of the fourteenth Aldi store in Long Island, located at 215 Carleton Avenue in Central Islip. The new store opened its doors to the community with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local leaders, community members, and enthusiastic shoppers.

This new addition to the Aldi family is part of a broader effort to enhance shopping convenience and accessibility for the residents of Central Islip and surrounding areas. The store features a modern design with a focus on sustainability and efficiency, offering a wide range of products at Aldi’s fantastic prices.

“We applaud Aldi for choosing Central Islip as their newest location, alongside these wonderful apartments, condos, and homes. Central Islip is a vibrant community, and with this new conveniently located supermarket, residents have so much at their fingertips,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip).

Michael F. Puntillo, Managing Partner at PX4 Development, expressed his enthusiasm about the project by saying, “Today marks a significant milestone not only for PX4 Development but also for the Central Islip community as we open the doors to the new Aldi store at 215 Carleton Avenue. This project epitomizes our commitment to enhancing community infrastructure and bringing much-needed retail options to the area. The overwhelming turnout and robust sales we’ve witnessed today reaffirm our belief in the positive impact of thoughtful development. We are immensely proud of this achievement and grateful for the collaboration from local leaders, agencies, and the community, which made this success possible.”

The opening event was a vibrant community gathering. Immediately following the ribbon cutting, over 150 people lined up to explore the store’s offerings and shop. The enthusiasm and support of the community members highlighted the positive impact this store is expected to have on the area.

PX4 Development extends heartfelt thanks to Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter, Town Councilman James O’Connor (R-Great River), Town of Islip Planning, Engineering, and Building Departments, and numerous other individuals and organizations including Suffolk County Department of Public Works, Suffolk County Water Authority, Suffolk County Department of Health, J.R. Holzmacher P.E. LLC’s Tony Zalak and Paul Carroll, IMEG’s Michael

DeGiglio, VHB Engineering’s Dave Wortman and Patrick Lenihan, Central Islip Civic Council, Coalition of Good Neighbors, and Vision Long Island. Their collaboration and support have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

Central Islip Selected as Aldi’s 14th Store Island-Wide

About PX4 Development For over seventy years, PX4 Development has been a trailblazing force in the real estate development industry. With a legacy of excellence, we have developed over 15,000 residential units and executed transactions totaling over $1 billion. Our unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability sets us apart as we continue to provide our clients and partners with unparalleled construction and development management services.

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News Thursday, December 19, 2024

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Continued from front cover

Heuermann Charged with Murder of 7th Gilgo Victim

On June 6, 2024, Heuermann’s computer Tierney once again in a summer raid of the announced more Massapequa Park home, charges, now eclipsing which also produced a the original scope of litany of devices, hard the “Gilgo Four” and drives, tapes, and other branching out now paraphernalia.

The to remains found in document, referred to Manorville.

He was as the “HK Document,” charged with secondallegedly contains degree murder in relation Heuermann’s modus to both Jessica Taylor operandi for the and Sandra Costilla. The murders, as well as his June indictment was seemingly deliberate especially revealing in the attempts to cover his case, as it demonstrated tracks and get in the Heuermann’s seemingly mind of a detective. innocuous whereabouts However, the HK at a sport rifle range just Document coincides around the corner from with the state in which where he would leave the Heuermann home the remains of Melissa was found by authorities, Taylor. It also opened according to Tierney and Attorney Gloria Allred flanked by family members of Gilgo victims (Credit - Matt Meduri) up the possibility of the Gilgo Beach Task his connections to the Force. It leaves the door outstanding ten other of possibility open for potential victims related to the Gilgo Beach murder spree that is assumed to murders to have been committed in the home, only for Heuermann to have have taken place from 1993 until 2011, as well as to locations far removed from allegedly scattered the remains across Suffolk County. the western end of Suffolk. The remains of Sandra Costilla were found in North “If you look at the planning [HK] document and if you look at the adhesive Sea, a hamlet in the Town of Southampton that borders the Peconic Bay. staining on the walls and decomposed tile, certainly all of that is consistent Now, on December 17, 2024, Rex Heuermann faces a second-degree with the commission of those murders,” said Tierney, noting that, as of now, murder charge in the death of Valerie Mack. there is no specific evidence showing that Mack was killed in the home while On or about November 19, 2000, three individuals with a hunting dog Heuermann’s wife and daughter were away, a detail consistent with the other were combing the woods of Manorville, only to stumble upon a black plastic murders tied to Heuermann so far. bag wrapped with duct tape. The remains were found about one mile west of Meanwhile, the defense continues to raise questions about the use of the Halsey Manor Road and north of Mill Road. Inside the bag, the hunters found cutting-edge DNA evidence, claiming the technology is too new and has never additional black bags and a decapitated human, later been used in New York State to aid a prosecution, identified to be Mack. while also only having been used a “handful of times” Both of Mack’s hands had been severed from her in other countries in a similar fashion. Tierney said he “The family are extraordinary body above the wrists, while her right leg had also been anticipates those challenges to culminate in a specific people and we are honored to amputated at the mid-calf. However, her head, hands, hearing about what kinds of evidence are on the table prosecute this case for Valerie and right foot were conspicuously absent from the bag in for this investigation, with a judge signing off on the and her family. I think the Mack Manorville and would not be discovered by authorities for admissibility of the evidence in court. family is emblematic of other another eleven years.

However, Tierney remains confident that even if the On April 4, 2011, during an expanded search of the DNA evidence is deemed inadmissible, the prosecution families in this case, who have Gilgo Beach area, Mack’s skull, hands, and right foot were still has plenty of evidence with which to build a case. steadfastly stood by their loved discovered along Ocean Parkway, less than 1.5 miles from “We have the phone records, the financial records, ones and jealously guarded where Jessica Taylor’s skull, hands, and forearm were the Internet searches, and the various things that he their memories, and we have discovered. Mack’s remains were discovered on the same has kept since 1993,” said Tierney. “All the evidence nothing but respect and side of the road and at a similar depth within fifty feet contains a certain picture, and the picture will need to admiration for those victims’ from the edge of the parkway, positing that any suspect prove itself.” would likely be tied to both victims.

Moreover, old newspapers and magazines with families.”

For years, Mack was referred to by detectives as articles about the Gilgo Beach murders and ensuing D.A. Tierney “Jane Doe #6,” but only until a May 28, 2020, DNA report investigation were found in the home, which successfully identified her as Valeric Mack. prosecutors allege Heuermann kept as “souvenirs” or Born June 2, 1976, in Atlantic City, Mack was born “mementos” from his spree. One obtained was a July Valerie Lyn Fulton. After years of being shuffled through the foster system, 29, 2003, copy of The New York Post that discussed the investigation in Mack she was adopted by the Mack family. In 1994, Mack, aged 17, gave birth to a and Taylor. son and lived with her son’s father in Wildwood, New Jersey. However, in 1996, “I scored a touchdown in high school. I still have that article,” Tierney Mack had her first run-in with the law in Philadelphia, working as a prostitute, quipped, yet with a tone of seriousness that relays the massive case his team advertising online and conducting “street walks.” has been building since last July.

Joanne and Edwin Mack, parents of Valerie, were present, but did not speak The prosecution believes that a hearing will be scheduled as early as before the press.

February or as late as March regarding the admissibility of the DNA evidence, “The family are extraordinary people and we are honored to prosecute but that a trial could come sooner than expected as well. this case for Valerie and her family,” said D.A. Tierney, joined by the families As of now, Tierney and the Gilgo Beach Task Force cannot make certain of the victims who have previously been tied to Heuermann. “I think the how many more indictments, if any, would emerge before a trial commences.

Mack family is emblematic of other families in this case, who have steadfastly Tierney said that the “answer to the question” of when a trial will begin stood by their loved ones and jealously guarded their memories, and we have “changes on a daily basis,” depending on the evidence and witnesses the nothing but respect and admiration for those victims’ families.” prosecution receives.

Tierney touted the mitochondrial DNA evidence that has been utilized “We have an obligation to investigate these cases and provide closure to to identify a possible suspect in Heuermann, while also ruling out the as many families as we can, and that’s whether or not this results in additional defendant’s wife and daughter. He also mentioned the document found on charges for anyone,” said Tierney. “

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County News Thursday, December 19, 2024

More Drones Spotted Across Suffolk, Two Spotted in Nassau

By Hank Russell Credit - FMT

Long Island Life & Politics sought to confirm more drone sightings that occurred in Suffolk County over the past few days. Witnesses called the Suffolk County Police Department to alert them of sightings above the Village of Port Jefferson, Brookhaven National Laboratory and the North Fork, according to multiple new sources.

As previously reported, LILP confirmed reports of 16 sightings with the SCPD. However, the agency could not say where exactly in the county the drones were spotted.

According to news sources, the drones were spotted in Port Jefferson and Brookhaven National Lab on December 13, and more drones were seen between December 12 and December 15 on the North Fork, based on eyewitness accounts. Once again, LILP reached out to the SCPD about the latest reports and was referred to the statement that was put out together with County Executive Ed Romaine.

“In light of the recent drone sightings throughout the East Coast, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) and the Suffolk County Police Department are working closely together along with our state and federal law enforcement partners

to monitor the situation in real-time,” Romaine and the SCPD said in a joint statement.

LILP also reached out to the Nassau County Police Department. They said that they received two phone calls about drone sightings on the evening of December 15 but could not disclose their exact locations.

Governor Kathy Hochul (D) called for the federal government to help with this growing problem, and the government responded.”

“In response to my calls for additional resources, our federal partners are deploying a state-of-the-art drone detection system to New York State,” she said in a statement.

“This system will support state and federal law enforcement in their investigations.

We are grateful to the Biden Administration for their support, but ultimately, we need further assistance from Congress. Passing the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act will give New York and our peers the authority and resources required to respond to circumstances like we face today.”

This article originally appeared in Long Island Life and Politics. For more from LILP, visit them online at lilifepolitics.com.

LaLota Appointed to House Appropriations Committee First NY Republican Since 2009

By Cait Crudden Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) has been appointed to the powerful House Appropriations Committee for the 119th Congress, marking a significant achievement for both LaLota and New York Republicans. He is the first Republican from New York to serve on this influential committee since former Congressman James T. Walsh left office in 2009.

In a statement following the announcement, LaLota expressed his gratitude and outlined his commitment to fiscal responsibility and advocacy for Long Island communities.

“I am deeply honored to have been selected to serve on the influential House Appropriations Committee and grateful for the support of my colleagues throughout this process. This new role is an incredible opportunity to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and transparently, strengthening national security, supporting hardworking families, and addressing the needs of communities across Suffolk County,” said LaLota.

The House Appropriations Committee plays a critical role in the federal government, overseeing how taxpayer dollars are allocated to fund agencies, programs, and essential operations. This committee directly shapes national priorities by determining funding for key sectors, including defense, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and homeland security.

To manage its vast responsibilities, the Appropriations Committee is divided into twelve specialized subcommittees, each focused on distinct areas of federal spending.

This structure allows for in-depth review of funding requests, ensuring that resources are distributed efficiently and effectively. Beyond allocating funds, the committee also exercises oversight to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse, holding the federal government accountable for how taxpayer dollars are spent.

LaLota’s appointment marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first New York Republican to serve on the committee in fifteen years. Former Congressman Walsh, of Syracuse, was the last New York Republican to hold a seat on the Appropriations Committee before leaving office in 2009. LaLota’s selection underscores his growing

influence within Congress and reflects his colleagues’ confidence in his ability to handle this critical responsibility.

Since taking office, Congressman LaLota has been an advocate for Suffolk County, securing over $150 million in federal funding for local communities and projects during his first term. This funding has supported key initiatives in areas such as infrastructure, public safety, and economic development, directly benefiting Long Islanders. LaLota’s new role on the Appropriations Committee positions him to amplify those efforts, ensuring that federal resources address local needs.

As a member of the committee, LaLota will play a vital role in shaping funding decisions that impact both his constituents and the broader national agenda. He has emphasized his commitment to restoring fiscal discipline in Washington while prioritizing funding for critical programs that strengthen the economy, national security, and quality of life for hardworking families.

“Serving on the Appropriations Committee is both a privilege and a significant responsibility. I am committed to advocating for the priorities of Long Islanders, delivering critical funding to Suffolk County, and helping restore fiscal discipline in Washington, ensuring federal resources benefit the people I am proud to represent,” remarked LaLota.

Congressman LaLota’s appointment to the House Appropriations Committee represents a significant step forward for Suffolk County and New York Republicans. With this new role, LaLota has an opportunity to bring Long Island’s needs to the forefront of federal spending discussions while working to ensure transparency and accountability in the budgeting process.

His leadership on this influential committee will be closely watched, as he continues to advocate for local priorities and work toward restoring fiscal responsibility at the federal level.

Suffolk Sees Bump from Rating Agencies

By Hank Russell Suffolk County just received an increase in its short-term ratings from both Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings. The announcement was made by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches).

Fitch Ratings assigned an A rating to Suffolk County’s $46.8 million GO refunding serial bonds and a F1+ rating for the county’s upcoming sale of $350 million of tax anticipation notes. The report indicates the county’s rating outlook is positive.

According to Fitch Ratings’ website, an A rating “denotes expectations of low default risk,” and a F1 rating “[i]ndicates the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments relative to other issuers or obligations in the same country. … Where the liquidity profile is particularly strong, a “+” is added to the assigned rating.”

According to Fitch’s report, “the Positive Outlook reflects Fitch’s expectations for the county’s continued budgetary stability and maintenance of a sound reserve position.”

S&P Global Ratings assigned an AA- long-term rating to Suffolk County’s $46.8 million GO refunding bonds and a SP-1+ short-term rating to the County’s $350 million tax anticipation

notes. S&P’s outlook on the long-term ratings is stable.

An AA- rating means its “capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.” The SP-1+ rating shows the county “possess[es] a very strong capacity to pay debt service,” based on information from Bond Desk.

According to S&P’s report, the long-term rating reflects “the county’s stronger management practices and financial performance that have paved the way to historical levels of reserves and budgetary flexibility heading into fiscal 2025.”

“Suffolk County continues to implement fiscally sound policies that make our County safer and more affordable,” said Romaine. “Two separate rating agencies have increased the County’s ratings for the upcoming sale of tax anticipation notes to each agency’s highest rating level for short-term borrowing notes. The increased ratings affirm our commitment of a responsible government to our residents as we will save millions of taxpayer dollars over the long-term.”

This article originally appeared in Long Island Life and Politics. For more from LILP, visit them online at lilifepolitics.com.

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Editorial Thursday, December 19, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

A Big Year for the U.S., an Even Bigger Year for Suffolk If there could only be one year for the history books, 2024 would certainly make that cut.

We’re sure that many have been fatigued, or perhaps downright exhausted by the events of this year. From the national level to the local level, we witnessed the history books being printed.

For starters, the biggest anticipation of the year was the tumultuous 2024 cycle, culminating in a historic victory. With Donald Trump (R-FL) having declared his candidacy earlier last year, the question then pointed to the primaries, both those for Republicans and Democrats. As other Republicans tried to paint themselves in a different light, Democrats became desperate to avoid certain electoral defeat in November.

Meanwhile, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. mounted a historic Independent bid for the White House, accomplishing the near-insurmountable feat of obtaining ballot access in all fifty states. Democrats essentially overthrew Joe Biden (D-DE) once the legacy media and the Democratic machine could no longer excuse his clearly-obvious cognitive decline.

That said, we disagree vehemently with Biden’s policy positions, but the four years of strenuous work on the world stage, internationally embarrassing himself, is inexcusable. Biden deserves to retire in peace and enjoy his final years away from the spotlight.

But it’s nothing short of historic nonetheless; Biden became the first incumbent president since Lyndon Johnson (D-TX) in 1968 to not seek re-election. The tone of the

D.A. Tom Spota (D), and former D.A. Tim Sini (D).

We’ve seen New York deal with the migrant crisis first-hand, with the problem likely pushing New York into battleground state territory, as well as conversations with some local electeds on the issue, such as Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo (R-Sayville). Assemblyman Doug Smith (R-Holbrook) proved to be of sound counsel on the Foundation Aid cuts to school districts, perhaps the most controversial issue presented to New Yorkers this year.

Bobby Kennedy, Jr. himself descended on Holbrook, a Villa Lombardi’s, no less, in early May to make his pitch to Suffolk voters during his climb to ballot access in the Empire State.

We even witnessed a near-totality solar eclipse in April, with our coverage from the nexus of our townships of coverage: Lake Ronkonkoma.

Babylon dismemberments, bail reform, workforce housing, sewers, the final report on the 2022 cyber attack - which shows just how amateur the administration of Steve Bellone (D-West Babylon) was - as well as the fight against the eventuallyapproved Proposition One all dominated headlines throughout the year.

We also got to have some fun. We went up in the air with the U.S. Army’s Golden Knights Parachute Team and watched them jump out of their plane to perform skydiving stunts at the Jones Beach Air Show. We went up in the air with STEM students at Gabreski Air National Guard in Westhampton. We even got a front-row seat to the Port Jefferson prom, a tight-knit, community-guided event in which the entire village gets to participate.

campaign fundamentally changed, followed by the most undemocratic display from the party concerned about “threats to democracy” when Kamala Harris (D-CA) was decided as leader.

Of course, perhaps the single-most defining moment of this year was Trump’s near-assassination in Pennsylvania, the first time a president, sitting or former, had been shot since 1981. The picture of Trump raising his fist, ear bloodied, will probably go down as one of the most historic images taken in American history.

And yet, he survived another attempt, albeit one that was thwarted before shots were fired.

His victory in the 2024 election was as swift as it was decisive; while not a landslide, it was certainly a clear victory that could spell doom for the Democratic Party when the numbers are fully considered.

We’ll also take a moment to pat ourselves on the back. In the October 31 edition of The Messenger, we accurately forecasted the presidential race, correctly calling all fifty states, as well as defining the margins in some staunch blue-wall states that could be on the competitive table in 2028.

But even away from the national politics, this year produced some big moments, including, but certainly not limited to, the end of the Syrian Civil War, the ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the continuing dominance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and just how capable and pervasive it has become, the Diddy allegations, notable passings - Joyce Randolph (The Honeymooners), Shelley Duvall (The Shining), and Carl Weathers (Rocky) to name a few - as well as the general shift in technology, science, and capabilities that is unparalleled to the past.

For us here at The Messenger, we had a great year bringing our readers the most pressing stories, and Suffolk County’s year was perhaps just as historic.

For starters, Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) was inaugurated as Suffolk’s first Republican county executive since 1999, while he was accompanied by the first Republican supermajority in the County Legislature since 1996. Shortly thereafter, Governor Kathy Hochul (D) came to Kings Park herself to deliver grant money - kudos to Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) and company for shepherding that DRI process through multiple times until they were awarded $10 million in grant funds - as well as grant funds for North Bellport - kudos to Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches) for making revitalizing once-neglected communities a top priority during just his first year in office.

We received more developments of the Gilgo Beach case, in which the original “Gilgo Four” were all attributed to alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann - kudos to Ray Tierney (R) for cracking a cold case wide open and identifying a possible suspect, even when the investigation was stymied by former SCPD Police Chief Jimmy Burke, former

Donald Trump himself held a rally at Nassau Coliseum, the Long Island Ducks celebrated their nine-millionth fan, Jake’s 58 broke ground on their massive expansion and overhaul, and Suffolk voters approved yet another ballot measure to increase sales taxes to fund wastewater solutions.

Former Legislator Sarah Anker (D-Mt. Sinai) has been under investigation since October for allegedly removing and/or destroying documents from her Sixth District office before now-Legislator Chad Lennon (C-Rocky Point) took office. Somehow, we’re one of the only outlets to have covered this in-depth, and the first to the story in our October 10 edition. We’re eagerly awaiting the thoughts of other sources in Suffolk - Newsday would be a good start.

But our biggest break of the year was our exclusive on John Avlon (D-Gramercy Park). We were the first source to break the story on his tax documents and property records that cement him to a Manhattan residency, despite trying to pitch his Suffolk connections to working-class voters from his Sag Harbor summer home. He lied about when it was purchased, and better yet, he requested an interview with us just before Election Day. We reached out. He did not reply. The initial story we ran in April would only get picked up by other sources until mid-summer, with The Messenger receiving a shoutout from The New York Post, who now seems to be our neighbor to the west as they very recently unveiled plans to expand to Nassau County. Nassau Executive Bruce Blakeman (R-Atlantic Beach) has already designated the paper the official paper of the county.

Finally, in what we deem to be the most historic moment in Suffolk this year: the red light camera program officially ended, marking the end of a fourteen-year program that was almost unanimously viewed as a cash grab. The Bellone Administration and Democratic-led Legislature instituted a $30 administrative fee that has been deemed illegal. But Romaine and legislative Republicans made good on the promise to not renew the program, and to deliver an “honest budget,” which did not include the estimated revenue from the extortion scheme months before the program was not renewed. It’s very rare to see a tax or fine be repealed once they’re instituted.

Every Thursday Romaine and Legislature, especially the Republican caucus, receive the biggest MVP award this year, in our opinion.

It was a tumultuous year, but certainly one for the history books, and that case could not be truer for Suffolk County.

It has been a great privilege to serve our communities, and we look forward to continuing doing so, perhaps even better and even broader, in 2025.

The Messenger wishes all of our readers a Merry Christmas, a Happy Chanukah and a happy, hopeful, and perhaps even more historic New Year.

Op-Ed Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

Statement Regarding End of Suffolk County Red Light Camera Program

By Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey For years, I have publicly called into question the merit of the Suffolk County Red Light Camera Program, particularly due to a significant increase in accidents at red light camera intersections in my legislative district.

Because of this, my name became synonymous with buzz words like “money grab” and “scam alley,” which I coined for the one mile stretch of Route 109 and Great East Neck Road in West Babylon that was home to five camera intersections.

Reports issued by Suffolk County found that these intersections showed an overall increase in both the total number of accidents and accidents with injury. In particular, the intersections of Montauk Highway and Great East Neck Road/Bergen Avenue in West Babylon as well as Route 109 and Great East Neck Road showed more than a 100% increase in total accidents and accidents with injuries. Both intersections are in the topfive of intersections that showed the most significant increase in accidents and accidents with injuries in the Program. It became clear to me and to many that safety on this stretch of roadway was not the priority, but revenue was.

It was the stance of the County that “The Suffolk County Red Light Camera Program is intended to reduce red light running, and by extension the occurrence of crashes.” Utilizing a Suffolk County Department of Public Works Review of the program, it was found that: • Overall, there was a 59.6% increase in the total number of accidents from pre-enforcement to active enforcement.

• The total number of accidents during the active enforcement period exceeded the projected number of accidents based on Countywide growth rates.

• Countywide, the number of rear end and overtaking accidents was higher than projected.

• The total number of accidents that involved fatalities was unchanged.

The Red-Light Camera Program was sold to the public as a public safety program, but the “gotcha” profitminded goals of the program provided an undue tax on the hard-working men and women of our County. It was my intention to eliminate the revenue-generating goals of the program, and today we say mission accomplished.

Now let me be clear, I am not opposed to a program,

if it’s done right. A red-light camera program does have the ability to serve a legitimate public safety interest. But to do so, the Program must be free of traps like “scam alley,” where the saturation of cameras has resulted in higher accident and injury counts without public safety benefit.

Legislator Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst) has represented the Fourteenth District in the Suffolk County Legislature since 2014, and as the Presiding Officer of the Legislature since 2021. The Fourteenth District includes Babylon village, Lindenhurst, and parts of Copiague, GilgoOak Beach-Caprtee, North Babylon, North Lindenhurst, and West Babylon.

The Fourteenth District office is located at 125C South Wellwood Avenue in Lindenhurst and can be reached at 631-854-1100.

Ineffective DAs Should Be Removed

By Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay New Yorkers’ concerns about crime and public safety haven’t subsided since Albany’s botched criminal justice “reforms” in recent years. In fact, the shortcomings of Democrats’ policies and inadequate prosecutorial priorities become more glaring with time. A recent Siena Poll shows a majority of New Yorkers believe crime has worsened in the past year.

Amid heightened tensions, law-abiding citizens want action. They’re getting just the opposite. The highprofile case of Daniel Penny in New York City shows how backwards liberal prosecutors have become. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) should never have prosecuted the former Marine. Thankfully, Penny was acquitted by a jury earlier this week. Bragg’s handling of this case is emblematic of his and other Democrats’ broader failure to prioritize public safety and fairness during his tenure. His outright refusal to prosecute certain criminal offenses while pursuing politically driven prosecutions has emboldened criminals and sent a dangerous message.

This case has brought renewed attention to the dire consequences of Bragg’s policies and the need for direct action. In an effort to provide voters with the tools to hold

A Proposal for Tax Relief for Seniors

I’ve lived in Nesconset for over fifty years.

Both the Town and I have grown and prospered.

Being a retired couple, even though childless, we have to watch our spending.

Many times, I have seen my neighbors move once their children graduate from high school.

I propose that once a person reaches the age of 65 and has lived continuously in Smithtown township for over twenty years, they receive a 5% property tax reduction. At age seventy, a 10% reduction, and after that, every ten years an additional 10%. The above is an example and could be adjusted; the maximum reduction to be capped at 50%.

Paul H. Schmutz Nesconset

elected officials accountable, I introduced a constitutional amendment (A.9334) that would allow for the recall of a district attorney. The recall would be initiated by a petition signed by voters within the county. Finally, people would have a mechanism to remove officials who fail to uphold the law.

This call to action was inspired by the successful recall election in San Francisco. Former District Attorney Chesa Boudin was removed from office in 2022 by voters for his soft-on-crime approach to the job. Alvin Bragg is no different and New Yorkers should be afforded the same opportunity. Prosecutors who fail to hold criminals accountable only exacerbate the problem.

In the coming months, the Legislature will have the opportunity to reconsider the deeply flawed criminal justice changes that have swept an era of lawlessness across the state. Issues such as bail reform, Raise the Age, the parole system, mask bans, and cooperation with immigration agencies need to be reconsidered and corrective measures implemented.

The actions taken by Daniel Penny wouldn’t be necessary if the justice system weren’t compromised by liberal

political ideologies jeopardizing public safety. It is essential to reexamine these policies and, once again, prioritize the safety of our communities. Refusing to put the interests of law-abiding citizens before those of the most violent and dangerous individuals in our community is a gross dereliction of duty. I urge my colleagues to consider this much-needed measure of accountability and restoration of power to the people.

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 breached 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.

Letter to the Editor Response to Steve Levy Article December 5, 2024 I was reading Steve Levy’s article dealing with concerns about conservative overreach. I think we should keep this discussion active concerning changes in education. For a long time, I’ve had the opinion that our education department has been used to indoctrinate and espouse only the views accepted by the intellectual elite. At the very least, we could provide a more balanced education.

There have been those that have developed better systems, ie: Admiral Rickover. I was trained in one of his systems that very quickly equipped his Nuclear Navy with new personnel.

The removal of the basic learning of history from our high school curriculum is alarming and seems to be the reason we have so many embracing the same ideologies that have led to destruction and oppression.

I have recently been watching on YouTube a series done for TV by the late Dr. Francis Shaeffer and I realized that he foresaw our day, even though he died about forty years ago. The series was called “How We Should Then Live.”

Fred Baumbach Center Moriches

Hochul’s Pre-election Bribe Governor Hochul’s (D) $3 billion dollar proposed Inflation refund to taxpayers funded out of a surplus of excess tax revenue is nothing more than a pre-election bribe to grease the wheels of her upcoming 2026 reelection campaign. Offering those with income under $150,000 a $300 check comes to $25 monthly over one year. Offering joint filers with income under $300,000 dollars a $500 check comes to $41.66 monthly over one year, There are better alternatives such as reducing the state sales tax, using the funds as a down payment toward reducing Albany’s $423.4 billion long-term debt which represents $21,700 per citizen, or help fill the $33 billion shortfall in the MTA’s proposed $68 billion 2025 - 2029 Five Year Capital Plan.

Larry Penner Great Neck

County News

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

County Takes Stand Against Street Takeovers

Suffolk County is following the lead of State officials who, in October, unveiled legislation aimed at cracking down on street takeovers and side shows staged by drivers who intentionally take to quiet suburbia to wreak mayhem on the roads.

The State version of the bill is being carried by Senator Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) and Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R-Baiting Hollow). At that time, County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches), along with several Legislators, made a promise to introduce similar legislation at the County level.

Not only has reckless driving been a nuisance and a culprit in defacing crosswalks and intersections with tire marks, but the side shows have injured other motorists and hindered law enforcement vehicles from responding to calls. Furthermore, the drivers are communicating in online spaces to plan these types of crusades, even hailing from Upstate New York, while others actively block roads and parking lot entrances and exits to prevent typical traffic flow from interrupting the dangerous displays.

During the recess of the Legislature’s final General Meeting of the year, the entire Legislature, along with Executive Romaine, Chief Assistant District Attorney Allen Bode, and SCPD Deputy Commissioners Kevin Catalina and Belinda Alvarez-Groneman made their statement against such drivers on Tuesday afternoon in Hauppauge.

“One of the issues that we’ve had is these sideshows where these cars are coming out and driving recklessly, upsetting neighborhoods, closing down roads, and impeding traffic for the emergency vehicles,” said Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst), adding that the problem has been persisting for months.

“In October, we had a young woman who had her femur broken after a group of cars went from Queens to Nassau to three different places in Suffolk, ending up at the Gateway

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Plaza in North Patchogue,” said Chief A.D.A. Bode (pictured left). “After that, in November, there was another takeover at Sunrise Highway and Commack Road; at that location, there were multiple crashes.”

Bode also mentioned a police car that had its tires slashed by spectators of the sideshows, as well as an officer who was assaulted by spectators, and an officer that was dragged by a car.

“The District Attorney’s office is prosecuting these cases, but it’s not enough,” said Bode, calling for legislation to impose stricter penalties and hopefully serve as a deterrent. He added that Tierney is requesting a form of prevention before “someone is killed,” according to Bode.

Additionally, Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for anyone who has information about future street takeovers that leads to arrests.

Of the proposed legislation, I.R. 2024-2024, Bode says that it would allow police to arrest and Tierney’s office to prosecute spectators involved in the illegal takeovers.

“Drivers don’t do these stunts alone,” said Bode. “Spectators go with them, they shut down intersections, they film the stunts for social media. They harass and assault our first responders, police, and emergency personnel, and they block legitimate traffic.”

Bode recounted an October incident that prompted the State legislators to draft a bill in Albany, in which an ambulance was blocked from passing through an intersection by one of the takeovers.

“The cars that are used by illegal stunts and the cars that are used to block off those intersections are now subject to forfeiture,” added Bode. “So if you want to go to a street takeover and follow someone doing stunts, we will take your car. Spectators will no longer be able to gather in crowds, blocking traffic, and encouraging this dangerous behavior without any consequence to themselves. If you participate, you are complicit and will face legal consequences.”

County Executive Romaine called the initiative one that will fulfill promises from the County to keep Suffolk safe.

“Public safety is the first obligation of every government, and we’re stepping up to the plate to address a problem before it gets out of hand and to make sure we keep the public safe,” said Romaine. “This piece of legislation is critical. I thank the Presiding Officer, the Legislators, and the police department, who will have the job of enforcing this.”

SCPD Deputy Commissioner Kevin Catalina (pictured middle left) spoke more indepth about what law enforcement is observing regarding these incidents.

“These events don’t happen in a vacuum. There’s plenty of planning that goes into it. There’s organizers and there’s participants,” said Catalina. “They post this on social media and that’s what fuels these incidents.”

Catalina also referenced a recent case in Florida, where police officers were injured due to the fires that were lit in the street.

“This isn’t unique to Suffolk County, but what is unique is the resolve of Suffolk County to get in front of this issue, to deal with it, and draft the correct legislation that makes law enforcement’s job much easier in dealing with this issue,” said Catalina, adding that a nascent task force to handle the issue has already proven successful.

“We made arrests, issued summonses, and more importantly, we sent a message to this community that we’re not going to tolerate this anymore,” referencing a recent case at the Ronkonkoma LIRR Station.

Bode added that while legislation has existed to curb forms of traffic interference, among other issues, the “Public safety is the first proposed bill is more of an amendment obligation of every government, to add stunt shows. and we’re stepping up to the “This legislation has been around plate to address a problem in drag racing form for years, and before it gets out of hand and to there’s a body of case law. The people make sure we keep the public who were dropping the flag to start the races were always participating. safe. This piece of legislation The definition in the law is that you is critical. I thank the Presiding knowingly participate.”

Officer, the Legislators, and Bode clarified that a bystander the police departwho happens to record a stunt show ment, who will is not likely considered a willing have the job of participant, only if said person is deliberately following the caravan enforcing this.” to record each stunt session after the other. Drivers or passersby County Executive simply recording the show will not Ed Romaine be considered liable for willing participation.

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

National, State and Local Temperature Checks

By Matt Meduri

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A Long Island Assemblyman has been assigned a leadership role within his conference.

Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo (R-Sayville) (pictured below right) has been appointed Assistant Minority Leader Pro Tempore in the Assembly Minority Conference. The position plays a vital role in floor debate preparations and floor activity management for the conference.

“I am truly honored that Minority Leader Barclay has entrusted me to serve our conference in this new role,” said Gandolfo. “We are at a critical juncture in our state, as more and more New Yorkers are realizing that the status quo just isn’t working. I look forward to advocating for the common sense values of our conference that will make New York a better place for all.”

Gandolfo is set to replace Mary Beth Walsh (R-Ballston), who has been appointed Minority Leader Pro Tempore.

“I am pleased to appoint Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo as Assistant Minority Leader Pro Tempore,” said Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R-Pulaski) (pictured left).

“Jarett’s leadership, dedication and work ethic have earned him the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and those characteristics will serve him well in this crucial role. His position as second chair enables us to effectively advance our legislative agenda and manage floor activity during session. I’m confident he will be successful in this role and look forward to working alongside him this year.”

Credit - NYS Assembly

Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Peter Welch (D-VT), three progressive Senators, believe the amendment would “restore democracy” by removing the indirect aspect of U.S. elections and replacing it with a simple popular-vote method.

“In an election, the person who gets the most votes should win. It’s that simple,” said Schatz. “No one’s vote should count for more based on where they live. The Electoral College is outdated and it’s undemocratic. It’s time to end it.”

By definition, the U.S. is considered a constitutional republic, but one that is a hybrid system of democratic and republican ideals.

Schatz and company take chagrin at the fact that in the last twenty years, two presidents were elected without winning the popular vote: George W. Bush (R-TX) and Donald Trump (R-NY) in 2016.

In addition to expanding his margin in the College from 306 in 2016 to 312 this year, Donald Trump became the first Republican since 2004 to win the popular vote. He received just over 77 million votes to Harris’ near-75 million.

“In 2000, before the general election, I introduced a bipartisan resolution to amend the Constitution and abolish the Electoral College. I still believe today that it’s time to retire this 18th century invention,” said Durbin, adding that he finds the College “disenfranchises millions of Americans.”

Democrats claim the necessity of the amendment is found in their recent underperformances in key swing states.

“It’s always worth reminding people: It’s really hard for Democrats to win battleground states,” said David Plouffe, a senior adviser to Harris’s presidential campaign, on “Pod Save America,” a progressive podcast produced by Crooked Media.

“Let’s look at Pennsylvania: 25% of the electorate is liberal, roughly, 34% is conservative. So, in every battleground state, there’s more conservatives than liberals.”

This is perhaps the boldest call for the abolition of the Electoral College since Hillary Clinton (D-NY) herself called for

A Long Island Senator has recently secured a big legislative win in Albany.

Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue) (pictured right) introduced legislation this year amending the existing “Gio’s Law,” which clarifies that all counties in New York State, outside of New York City, can enact legislation to allow law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel to carry and administer epinephrine autoinjectors, otherwise known as EpiPens. The intent of the bill is to curb deaths due to allergic reactions that cannot be halted due to affordability or accessibility of the product.

Murray’s bill was signed by Governor Kathy Hochul (D) last month and was inspired by the Suffolk County version of the bill, sponsored and passed by Legislator Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue), a former EMS professional of over thirty years.

EpiPens can reverse the effects of an allergic reaction by increasing blood flow and relaxing muscles. “Gio’s Law” was named after Giovanni Cornago, a fourteen-year-old boy from Lynbrook who died from a reaction to a peanut allergy in 2013.

“As we prepare to enter into the holiday season, part of our traditions include feasting with family and friends… but doing so can also increase the chances of food allergy interactions, which can have tragic results,” said Murray in a statement.

Murray had submitted the bill in 2023, but concerns of costs became front-and-center in the debate, while supporters of the bill noted that first responders are already allowed to carry and administer Narcan to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

The bill was co-sponsored by Senator Julia Salazar (D-Brooklyn).

“Allergic reactions can be extremely dangerous, and seconds count to ensure treatment is administered in time to save a life,” said Governor Hochul. “With the placement of EpiPens in every Suffolk and Nassau County police car, we ensure first responders have the tools and training they need to respond rapidly in an emergency. Thank you to my partners in the Legislature for their advocacy and assistance seeing this through.”

Anaphylaxis claims anywhere from 500 to 1,000 lives annually in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) finds that one in three adults and one in four children have at least one allergy, with 6% of U.S. adults and children affected by food allergies.

Meanwhile, Murray has been an advocate, along with the Senate Republican Conference in urging Hochul to, in the upcoming budget, close the loophole in the Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP). The program is intended to prevent “doctor shopping,” wherein patients simultaneously seek care from several practitioners with the intention of receiving additional prescriptions.

I-STOP allows providers to access patient prescription histories to potentially curb the activity.

Currently, there is no mandated reporting requirement when a doctor is apparently over-prescribing medication, specifically opiates.

“It seems that New York State Department of Health officials rely on the pharmacies to voluntarily notify them when there may be a problem with a doctor over-prescribing,” said Murray. “Unfortunately, many times this voluntary reporting doesn’t occur right away or in some cases it doesn’t happen at all. This issue needs to be rectified.”

Assemblyman Keith Brown (R-Northport) (pictured below right), who has carved out a niche in Albany working on substance abuse disorders and their related problems, agrees with Murray.

“When a doctor is found to be in violation of the I-STOP PMP, he or she should be suspended immediately and the pharmacies notified not to take any prescriptions from these doctors pending a revocation hearing of their license by the State Education Department,” said Brown. “I want to thank Senator Murray for being on top of this issue for many years now and helping to protect New Yorkers from bad doctors who are over prescribing opioids and ruining people’s lives. The Governor can easily fix this at the agency level.”

Murray and Brown penned a letter to Hochul voicing these concerns. They earned the support of Suffolk Senators Mario Mattera (RSt. James), Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk), and Alexis Weik (R-Sayville), as well as Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda).

The letter suggests that the Governor include $500,000 of additional funding in the upcoming budget which would fund an additional two Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) to conduct data analysis and interagency communication; fund two FTEs in the Department of Health Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement for investigators of I-STOP’s PMP tips and complaints; and one FTE in the Department of Education Office of Professions to provide I-STOP interagency investigatory and licensure issue support.

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State

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Senate Democrats have submitted a bill to abolish the Electoral College.

The move comes just as the states and the District of Columbia certified their votes and the respective slates of electors all voted as pledged. The final result mirrors that of the November election: 312 electoral votes for Donald Trump (R-FL) and 226 votes for Kamala Harris (D-CA).

Congress will meet in a joint session to read aloud the results from the states on January 6, 2025.

However, that looming obligation of the federal government is not stalling Democrats’ intentions of repealing one of the most unique electoral systems in the world, one that has accompanied the United States since its founding.

Abolishing the Electoral College would require a constitutional amendment, a monumental political task that has not occurred since 1992 with the ratification of the Twenty-Seventh Amendment.

A constitutional amendment would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of Congress, a majority that does not exist if a vote is taken strictly along party lines. For context, a two-thirds majority in the Senate is 67 votes out of 100 available, while the same majority in the House would be 290 votes out of 435 Representatives.

Thereafter, three-fourths of the state legislatures must ratify the amendment for it to become part of the U.S. Constitution.

the country to “move beyond it” in the wake of her stunning loss to Trump in 2016, in which she won the popular vote, but lost the election.

“I think it needs to be eliminated. I’d like to see us move beyond it, yes,” Clinton told CNN’s Anderson Cooper in 2017.

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Around Town Thursday, December 19, 2024

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Long Island MacArthur Airport Earns 2024 Tourism Trailblazer Award

By Matt Meduri

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip) announced recently that Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) is the recipient of the 2024 Tourism Trailblazer Award! The award was presented December 3 at Discover Long Island’s annual gala celebrating travel and tourism industry achievements.

“Receiving this 2024 honor validates years of hard work at Long Island MacArthur Airport,” said Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “We’re grateful to Discover Long Island and the travel and tourism community for the support and acknowledgment of the airport’s accomplishments this year, including new JetBlue air service, many new nonstop routes, a successful tourism outreach campaign, and the launch of a new website delivering attractive customized content to potential airport customers in destination cities,” she added.

A Tourism Trailblazer Award acknowledges new or renovated attractions or promotional campaigns that enhance tourism by creating opportunities for destination development, visitor retention, or promotions leading to tourism growth or enhanced visitor experiences.

“In 2024, the airport’s innovative air service development efforts resulted in significant capacity additions,” said Airport Commissioner, Shelley LaRoseArken. “JetBlue became ISP’s fourth air carrier with nonstop service to Palm Beach, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. Breeze Airways inaugurated three long sought-after nonstop Florida destinations from MacArthur Airport – Vero Beach, Sarasota, and year-round service to Fort Myers. Southwest Airlines added its only nonstop service to Miami from the New York City region.”

“As a Board Chair of Discover Long Island, I see the benefits of Long Island MacArthur Airport and Discover Long Island collaborating to realize Long Island’s full promise, job creation opportunities and quality of life,” said Mitch Pally, DLI Board Chair and Town of Islip Airport Advisory Board Chairman.

“The airport’s accomplishments represent a powerful force for good for our region, with more on the horizon in the future,” he said.

Additionally, MacArthur Airport is completing terminal construction projects elevating its level of customer service and the overall experience for passengers using the airport.

Airport leadership was joined at the gala by Andrew Uzenoff and Lindsay Haggerty from JetBlue’s leadership team; Islip Supervisor Carpenter, and Deputy Airport Commissioner Robert Schneider.

The event was held at the Bourne Mansion located in the hamlet of Oakdale in the Town of Islip. Oakdale is known for its gilded era homes and gardens, providing an ideal location for the Gatsby-themed Discover Long Island Awards Gala.

Connetquot’s Tri-M Honor Society Holds Fourth Annual Addie’s Army Toy Drive This year, the Connetquot High School Tri-M Music Honor Society sponsored the fourth annual Addie’s Army Toy Drive to benefit children and families staying at the New York Metro Ronald McDonald House.

Addie’s Army was established in 2021

by Connetquot High School choir teacher Nicole White and her family in honor of her daughter, Addison. Nicole and her husband, Ryan, lived at the Ronald McDonald House in spring 2021 while Addison received critical care at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. When Addison came home, they wanted to give back to the amazing charity and help others in the way they were supported during a time of need.

“When I asked the Tri-M officers if they wanted to ‘sponsor a box’ for the toy drive, they agreed without hesitation and were enthusiastic about spreading the word,”

said Ms. White. On November 19, Tri-M officers Hannah Antony Raj, Brynn Burke, Samantha DeLuca, Ava Ross and Gianna Stecker, alongside club adviser Ms. White, presented approximately 175 toys and a $250 check from the Connetquot Teachers Association. In total, Addie’s Army donated over 1,000 toys this year to families in need.

“It is truly touching to see the Connetquot community come together to support our charity and the thousands of families that stay at the Ronald McDonald House each year,” said Ms. White. “Ronald McDonald House Charities is a home away from home with fully stocked kitchens, a meditation room, an exercise room and one-of-a-kind designer bedrooms and bathrooms. The students received an invaluable experience by being there and contributing to such a worthy cause.”

Smithtown Messenger - Brookhaven Messenger - Islip Messenger - Thursday, December 19, 2024

School Highlights

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

Islip Cosmetology Students Get Inspired by NYIB Visit

Students from Islip High School’s cosmetology program recently embarked on an enriching field trip to the New York Institute of Beauty, where they had an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of esthetics. The visit was highly interactive, with students actively participating in demonstrations and handson practice, including giving and receiving facials under the guidance of professional estheticians. This real-world experience not only allowed them to refine their skills but also provided valuable insights into

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potential career paths within the beauty industry. Additionally, students were given an overview of various trade college options and professional certifications available, opening their eyes to the diverse opportunities for further education and advancement in their chosen field.

“The trip proved to be an inspiring and informative experience, sparking new aspirations and solidifying my students’ commitment to their future careers in cosmetology,” teacher Lorraine Knoblauch said.

Connetquot Art Teacher Named NYSATA’s Teacher of the Year

During Connetquot’s October 28 board of education meeting, Director of Fine Arts and Music Vincent Malafronte announced that Idle Hour and John Pearl elementary schools’ art teacher Krystal ZagloolRivera received the New York State Art Teachers Association Teacher of the Year Award (Region 10) for her outstanding contributions to the field of art education and service to the regional and state organization.

"Throughout my time as her supervisor, I have observed Mrs. Zaglool-Rivera’s enthusiasm for teaching, her strong relationships with students, and her commitment to creating a welcoming classroom that fosters creativity through innovative, student-centered projects,” said

Vincent Malafronte. “We are very proud of Mrs. Zaglool-Rivera for being recognized for her hard work and dedication to our program."

Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Zaglool-Rivera serves as an executive board member for the Suffolk County Art Leaders Association where she leads professional development classes throughout the year.

“Art education is a true passion of mine,” said Mrs. Zaglool-Rivera. “Being able to educate children about art and inspiring them to create their own brings me so much joy. I also love sharing ideas with other art educators throughout the county and state. To be chosen for an award like this is a true honor and a dream come true.”

Pines Elementary Hosts Exciting Student Council Election The atmosphere at Pines Elementary School in the Hauppauge School District was electric as third, fourth and fifth grade students participated in the highly anticipated student council elections. On November 6, the school hosted a pep rally where eager candidates took to the podium to campaign for leadership roles.

School spirit filled the gymnasium as candidates for president, vice president, secretary and treasurer addressed their peers, outlining why they were the best choice for the job.

With their speeches, each candidate aimed to inspire their fellow students with promises of positive change and school improvement.

Students rallied behind their favorite candidates, creating colorful posters to show support. The votes were counted, and the results were announced on

November 8, revealing the newly elected officers who will lead the school with pride and dedication.

Congratulations to Brooke Russello (president), Connor White (vice president), Christian Bullock (secretary), and Nicholas Pesqueira (treasurer).

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School Highlights Thursday, December 19, 2024

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Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School Lends a Paw to Francesca’s Furry Friends The Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society was hard at work the first two weeks in December, collecting donations such as dog and cat food, treats, toys, blankets, and cleaning products for the nonprofit group, Francesca’s Furry Friends.

Francesca’s Furry Friends was started in honor of Francesca Gallo, who was passionate about helping animals in shelters during the holiday season. Francesca, unfortunately, lost her battle with leukemia in her teens, but the tradition she started many years ago continues with the help

of the Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School National Junior Honor Society and their adviser, Mrs. Senia.

Throughout December, posters were hung around the school, notifying students of this important event and announcements were made by honor society members each morning. This year, Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School collected over a dozen large bags filled to the brim with dog and cat food, toys, treats, collars, leads, and blankets. On December 8, all of the items were donated in Francesca’s honor to the Almost Home Animal Rescue in Patchogue.

Using Tower Gardens as a Classroom Tool Students at Sachem High School North are using Tower Gardens as a classroom tool. Recently, Mr. Logiudice's food trends classes and Ms. Frosina's horticulture classes grew two towers of basil for a cooking lesson on pesto. The Tower Gardens are used

all year long to grow various greens for use in both the general education cooking classes and the essential kitchen skills classes.

In addition to using the Tower Gardens, Mr. Logiudice's classes have planted in the outdoor garden at High School North for a hands-on learning experience about growing their own food.

Bayport-Blue Point Laces Up for a Cause The Bayport-Blue Point School District successfully hosted its third annual Community & Cocoa 5K Fun Run/Walk on December 14, bringing together students, families, staff and community members. In collaboration with the high school’s Wellness Club and the district’s Social Emotional Learning Committee, the event was organized by several of the high school’s students with the goal of raising awareness for suicide prevention.

The morning kicked off with a special half mile “fun run” for elementary school students on the Bayport-Blue Point High School track. Led by the Grinch, the young runners were cheered on by high school students who held signs and encouraged them as they circled the track. Each elementary participant received a commemorative ornament for their efforts.

The 5K run/walk followed, attracting participants of all ages from throughout the district and community. Proceeds from the event will benefit the high school’s Wellness Club, helping fund student-led initiatives and programs focused on mental health and wellness.

“People often ask me, ‘What’s so special about BBP?’, and this is really what is so special about our community,” said Superintendent Dr. Timothy P. Hearney. “Whether we’re celebrating someone’s success or going through tough times, we continuously come together.”

The Community & Cocoa 5K Fun Run/Walk serves as a testament to the district’s ongoing commitment to supporting the social-emotional well-being of its students and the greater community.

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Civics 101 Thursday, December 19, 2024

The Necessary Standard for American Education The Certification of the Electoral College

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

This column will seek to address the long-forgotten concept of civics and how it relates to American government in general, from the federal level to the local level. This column will explore Constitutional rights, the inner workings of government, the electoral process, and the obligations and privileges of citizens.

By Matt Meduri This week, we’re pausing our in-depth autopsy of the 2024 election results to discuss a timely topic: the certification of the Electoral College.

Despite the population voting for president in November, they’re not voting directly for their preferred candidate. Instead, they’re voting for a slate of electors who are pre-pledged to back the nominee who carries their state. These electors make up the Electoral College and have spent the last few weeks in the process of formally certifying Donald Trump’s (R-FL) and Kamala Harris’ (D-CA) wins in the recent presidential election.

Background on the Electoral College One of our very first Civics 101 columns discussed the Electoral College fully, as well as the Twelfth Amendment - which outlined how our elections are constitutionally administered - in a separate article.

The Electoral College is composed of the collective number of U.S. House Representatives and U.S. Senators allotted to each state. The House represents the states proportionally, with larger states receiving more congressional districts, and, therefore, more electoral votes. California has the largest batch at 54, while six states are tied for the lowest and lowest-possible number, just 3 electoral votes. Congressional districts are added or eliminated based on interstate population shifts pursuant to the results of the U.S. Census, conducted every ten years. States whose population shifts did not qualify for the addition or removal of a congressional district - and an electoral vote redrawn their lines to accurately reflect intrastate population shifts.

The Senate, meanwhile, represents the states equally, with each receiving two Senators, regardless of population or size.

A state’s Electoral College vote tally is a combination of these two figures. For instance, New York has twenty-six congressional districts, plus the two Senators, making for twenty-eight electoral votes.

The College has 538 votes available: 435 congressional districts, 100 Senators, and three electors from the District of Columbia, who have participated in every election since 1964, never one backing a Republican candidate.

The goal for either candidate then is to reach a majority of the votes available, which comes out to the magic number of 270. The first candidate to reach this number wins the election.

Only two states, Maine and Nebraska, award electoral votes based on the popular vote-winner in each congressional district in the state. Nebraska’s first split came in 2008, the first occurrence since the state shifted from its winner-take-all process in 1992. Maine’s first split came in 2016, after adopting the process in 1972. The 2020 election marked the first time both states split their votes in the same election, a historical anomaly that was repeated this year.

Who Are the Electors?

Once the votes have been tallied and winners and losers have been called, the process is then kicked, not to Congress, but to the states. Although the process is somewhat ceremonial, it does uphold the institution of the Electoral College and is a vital part of the election process that ultimately concludes with the certification of the results by Congress, followed by Inauguration Day on January 20.

Assuming there are no faithless electors, a topic we’ve also discussed in a dedicated Civics 101 article, the final electoral vote count should exactly mirror the results of the election. In this case, Trump should win 312 electoral votes to Harris’ 226, the lowest number of electoral votes for a Democrat since 1988.

Thirty-seven states and D.C. require electors to vote for the pledged candidate, while many have laws that remove, replace, and/or otherwise penalize electors who attempt to vote apart from the election results. However, while faithless electors are relatively rare, the tumultuous 2016 election culminated with seven faithless electors, with Trump losing two and Hillary Clinton (D-NY) losing five.

With the results fully certified as of Tuesday night, no faithless electors emerged, nor were there any attempts, as far we can see.

The electors for the College may be state elected officials, party leaders, or residents of a state that have a personal and/or political connection with their party’s presidential candidate. The slates of electors are determined before the election by both parties, with only one slate of electors sure to cast their votes in December.

Since Vice President Harris won New York, the twenty-eight electors all backed her. Notable names include Governor Kathy Hochul (D), New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D), State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli (D-Great Neck Plaza), Attorney General Letitia James (D), Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx), and even Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers.

These figures, as well as the other electors, all casted their votes for Harris.

Had Trump won New York, an entirely different slate would have voted for him.

Notable figures include Suffolk County Republican Party Chairman Jesse Garcia (R-Ridge), Suffolk Conservative Party Chairman Michael Torres, Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda), Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R-Pulaski), Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (R-Atlantic Beach), Assemblyman Karl Brabenac (R-Westbrookville), former Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-Shirley), and New York State Republican Committee Chairman Ed Cox. The Certification Process After the election results are tallied, the process begins with filing the Certificate of Ascertainment, which each state is required to file. The certificates are due six days before the electors are scheduled to meet. This year, electors met in their respective state capitals on Tuesday, December 17.

The only rules of the certificates are that they are signed by the governor and include the state seal.

The Certificate of Ascertainment itself contains the slate of electors, by name, for each candidate, including third-party and minor candidates. The certificate will note which slate received the largest number of votes, with the number printed alongside the winning slate. However, not all states include the names of the presidential candidates themselves on the certificates.

Each elector adds his/her signature to a Certificate of Vote, with which the Ascertainment is paired.

Once the votes are formally cast, seven duplicates are made. The first pair of certificates go to the vice president - the president of the Senate - who will preside over the final count and certification of the election results by Congress in January. The vice president, in this case Kamala Harris, will open fifty-one envelopes - all states and D.C. - to read aloud the winners of each state in the presence of a joint session of Congress. The vice president also receives the pairs of certificates from each state. This year, the deadline to receive the pairs of certificates from each state is December 28.

Another two copies are sent to the Archivist of the United States - an appointed position currently held by Colleen Shogan - at the National Archives and Records Administration with the same December 28 deadline.

The secretaries of state each keep two copies of the pairs, one in the event that the original pair does not reach the Archivist or the U.S. Senate, and one for public display and inspection.

Another pair goes to the U.S. District Court Judge for the respective state, while two extra copies are made as emergency backups in the event the other copies or the originals are lost or destroyed.

Electors also receive copies of the documents.

In late December, the Archivist will transfer all the pairs of certificates to Congress, which will be followed by the joint session of Congress on January 6, 2025. Here, it is permissible for members of Congress to challenge the results of each state, something that has occurred in four of the seven elections this century: 2000, 2004, 2016, and 2020. A challenge to a state’s result requires one House member and one Senate member to submit the objection. If that occurs, the two chambers of Congress separate and have two hours of debate and to vote on whether to continue the count.

Both chambers must vote by a simple majority (50% + 1) to agree with the objection for it to stand.

If not, the objection fails.

If no candidate receives 270 electoral votes, either through successful congressional objections, faithless electors, or third-party candidates, the Twelfth Amendment kicks in, empowering the House to select the president (one vote per state), and the Senate to choose the vice president (one vote per Senator). In the case of the House, the top-three vote-receivers are the only candidates from which the House can choose. If this were the case this year, Trump, Harris, and Green Party candidate Jill Stein - who took third place with just 0.55% of the national popular vote - would be in contention for the presidency.

Bergin’s Brief Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

BERGIN’S BRIEF NOVEMBER 2024

TRISH BERGIN, SUFFOLK COUNTY LEGISLATOR, 10TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

Legislator Bergin attended the “Creating Transformational Change for Families Involved with the Child Protective System” conference on November 8. Held at the Van Nostrand Theater at the Suffolk County Community College Brentwood campus, Legislator Bergin had the opportunity to meet keynote speaker, Katie Beers, and Carolyn Gusoff, authors of Buried Memories. The conference provided a plethora of resources, while also encouraging outcomes that benefit parents and their children. Thank you to all the speakers for sharing their experiences and knowledge.

On November 21, Legislator Bergin recognized Charles Mitchell Jr. as the 2024 LD10 Non-Profit Volunteer Honoree.

Charles settled in Central Islip in 1977 after serving in the United States Army for 11 years. He always knew he wanted to give back to his community and chose to do so with the Central Islip Civic Council’s Emergency Food Pantry. Each week, he happily arrives to assist in receiving and packaging food deliveries. Additionally, the Council’s partnership with Christian Cultural Center allows them and Charles to serve approximately 600 families a month. Thank you for your dedication to giving back to our community, Charles!

In collaboration with the Central Islip Civic Council, Legislator Bergin hosted a “Money Smart for Older Adults” event on November 14. Held at the East Islip Public Library, this free seminar was jointly developed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corpo-

ration (FDIC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to assist older adults in preventing fraud, scams, and other forms of elder exploitation.

Legislator Trish Bergin (R-East Islip) has represented the Tenth District in the Suffolk County Legislature since 2022. The Tenth District includes East Islip, Great River, Islandia, Islip Terrace, North Great River, Ronkonkoma, and parts of Central Islip and Hauppauge.

Legislator Bergin serves as the Chair of the Seniors and Human Services Committee; Vice Chair of the Economic Development, Planning, and Housing Committee; Vice Chair of the Government Operations, Personnel, and Information Technology Committee; and serves on the Committees on Education and Diversity; and Labor and Consumer Affairs.

The Tenth District office is located at 44 East Main Street in East Islip and can be reached at 631-854-0940.

Smithtown Messenger - Brookhaven Messenger - Islip Messenger - Thursday, November 7, 2024

Legislator Bergin hosted the November General Meeting of the Legislature. Pastor James Lee, from Christ Community Church in East Islip, delivered the invocation. Thank you for attending!

On November 7, Legislator Bergin attended a joint press conference with County Executive Romaine (R-Center Moriches), District Attorney Ray Tierney (R), and the Department of Social Services to announce comprehensive changes made to the County’s Child Protective Services system. In the aftermath of the Thomas Valva case, the County put together a committee to drill down on the grand jury report to ensure true changes were made.

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Local History Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, December 19, 2024

By Ellyn Okvist, B.Sc. Our beloved “Christmas Tree,” as it was known in the winter season, was a great pleasure for all who have ever participated in the holiday festivities in our community.

Wearing many hats, as they say, it was our Christmas Tree for a month, and represented other patriotic holidays, but boldly stood tall as our World War II Memorial Tree for the remainder of the year.

As the weather gets colder and anticipation begins for Christmas, we remember our “Christmas Tree,” and the memories it held, so proud to bring joy to all who passed by, filling the night with thousands of colored Christmas bulbs and lighting our way.

Actually, we were all sharing the tree, with its permission.

The tree was originally placed after the death of our town’s beloved David Girardet, who was shot down in his Grumman Hellcat near the end of WWII. Walter “Bunny” Gubner, who owned the Evergreen Nursey, brought the tree here in his Ford Model AA truck, and planted it on the northeast corner of the Newton/Girardet property.

At that moment, history was made.

The small but sturdy tree became the Lake Ronkonkoma World War II Memorial Tree. From that moment on, local WWII soldier/sailors that came home from active duty would stand in the heart of town at the intersection of Hawkins Avenue and Farm-to-Market Road (now Portion/Horseblock Road) and salute the tree in honor of their friend David Girardet, KIA, and to honor their country. Knowing many of our original WWII Veterans, you can be sure they would not have been concerned with a pizza place and a convenience store now facing them. They always made the best of all situations. That’s why they were our heroes.

The tree grew over the next 75-odd years, and never bothered anyone, nor did it ask for anything in return. It was protected by the property owners, and by Suffolk County when the property was sold.

The day non-community members turned their back on our tree was devastating. The concerns of so many present and past residents were shared, but to no avail.

Progress? We think not.

On Veterans Day 2022, our tree was taken down with respect and dignity. The loss of that tree has taken a piece of everyone’s heart.

Some of us remember the careful planning and attending the Christmas Caroling at both trees, but it was the younger crowd that remembers the magical night we would all celebrate at two trees, allowing both Ronkonkoma and Lake Ronkonkoma to share the Christmas holiday.

Since 1946, we have records of Christmas caroling that took place concurrently at the Railroad Station and in the Village, opposite ends of our community. It was a spectacular event; singing and festivities would get underway at 7:30p.m. at the Railroad Mall, followed by the 8:30 switch down to the WWII Memorial Tree at its rightful spot, Hawkins and Farm-to-Market Road. These were unrehearsed songfests, and the entire community was urged to attend. Many of these early caroling events were sponsored by the Lake Ronkonkoma Civic Association.

The year 1959 was a washout due to rain, but the rain date of 12/19/1959 allowed the dozen years of this tradition to happen a day later. Spontaneous community caroling, free refreshments consisting of hot chocolate and donuts at the WWII tree supplied by the law firm of Ehrman and Marino and distributed by the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts - and candy canes from the Civic Association. Brookhaven Town Clerk-elect Arthur McComb served as the Master of Ceremonies. The caroling was sponsored by the Lake Ronkonkoma Civic Association, with an assist from the newly formed Chamber of Commerce of Lake Ronkonkoma.

In 1960, the Christmas caroling was once again planned at each tree. It was the

Credit - Ellyn Okvist

O Christmas Tree

thirteenth annual renewal of the event. The Town officials planted three Norway maples on the mall at the railroad station to replace the three Dutch elms donated by Maude Adams, a popular resident, which had succumbed to disease.

The Norway Maples, starting at ten feet tall, were to mark the spot for future caroling at the station. The Lions Club of the Ronkonkoma’s operated at the program in conjunction with their annual distribution of food baskets for the community’s underprivileged. The caroling was sponsored by the Lake Ronkonkoma Civic Association and the Chamber of Commerce of Lake Ronkonkoma.

In 1961, more than 200 participants and both the Lakeland and Ronkonkoma fire departments were on hand to supply flood lights from the parked fire trucks at both locations to illumine the area.

Cookies, candy, and hot chocolate were available in the adjacent law office of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marino. The caroling was sponsored by the Lake Ronkonkoma Civic Association, the Chamber of Commerce of Lake Ronkonkoma and the Lions Club of the Ronkonkoma’s.

The Sachem schools chorus and band were added, church choirs, scouts and other groups who were all welcome, and this once-ayear honor to Christmas is remembered by many in the community.

A good question: who paid the electric bill?

The merchants in both areas paid a fair amount each to the fund and covered the bills. Working together for the residents to enjoy the holidays was number-one in the cause.

For many years, a very small group of citizens had been assembling at the WWII Memorial Tree on December 7. They would stand in silence, and the Ronkonkoma Fire Department would activate their alarm at 7:48a.m., the exact time our country was attacked in 1941.

The group of people would show respect to our military who died during the surprise attack conducted by the Empire of Japan every year, many remembering as a child the initial shock of the infamous day. The tree would have a modest floral piece on the ground under the mahogany landmark sign with a black and purple drape and the Military Jeep of Jo Molinari would always be parked next to the tree in solidarity.

The Armed Forces Day Ceremony, always held on the third Saturday of May, found the tree wearing happy and elaborate red, white, and blue decorations, and many handmade decorations made by the Boy Scouts, local community members, Gold Star Mothers, and Blue Star Mothers. The crafts were made on the three picnic tables constructed and placed by a Boy Scout Eagle Project from Levittown. Different groups were present yearly, but the most genuine were our local World War II Veterans. Fire Departments of Ronkonkoma, Lakeland, and Nesconset were among the displayers of our country’s flag. Horse groups, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, William Merrit Hallock American Legend, AMVETS, VFW, local school musical bands, and new faces every year joined in the event.

Christmas at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church with Father Edward Wisbauer was something you will never forget. I may be a bit biased, but Father Ed taught us Christmas like no other.

Religious responsibilities, church loyalty, and always time for fun to reward a great job.

The mobile Christmas caroling was added to our holiday when Jake Watral, owner of Watral & Sons, started the tradition by supplying his personal trailers, decorated in advance. He and his crew would assemble at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and load us up on them. We would slowly drive around town, disembark, and sing at selected sites for hours. It was like a parade in the middle of winter. We brought much joy to so many, as a parish we spread Christmas Cheer. My favorite recollection was the cold brisk air on my face as we circled Ronkonkoma Lake, made stops in town, and rounds of additional stops on the open roads until we once returned to St. Mary’s.

Merry Christmas to All! Thank you for supporting our community as we begin the year 2025!

The Lake Ronkonkoma Heritage Association 4 Cherry Street, Lake Ronkonkoma 631-831-1670

The Romaine Report Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

A Year of Progress: Building a Safer, More Affordable Suffolk County

By Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine After twelve years as the Brookhaven Town Supervisor, in 2023 I decided to run for Suffolk County Executive to make our county safer and more affordable and to restore professionalism to every county department.

Good governance is about doing what’s right for taxpayers and employees, and that’s exactly what we’ve focused on since I have taken office.

Fiscally, we are on the right road, and our efforts have been recognized. The county’s 2024 budgeting has earned Suffolk two bond ratings and three credit rating upgrades as of early December.

As promised, we’ve brought new leadership to the Suffolk County Police Department, hired 200 new officers, and added 50 new detectives to tackle crime across the county. New leadership has put the department on track for continued success, and my administration will provide what our law enforcement agencies need to protect our communities.

The Department of Social Services was in crisis when I took office. Poor management, low staffing, and tragic incidents resulted in Suffolk County being among the worst-performing DSS operations in New York State. For example, Suffolk was last among counties processing SNAP applications, which provide people in need with food. Due to new leadership and a complete overhaul of DSS operations, Suffolk is now the best in New York State.

New call center policies have reduced SNAP wait times by more than 95%, boosted employee morale, and decreased caseloads. While there is still work to be done, especially in filling the over 1,000 open positions, we’re making real progress.

To address these vacancies, we launched the “Suffolk is Hiring” campaign, meeting job seekers where they are—on social media, at college campuses, and at job fairs. This proactive approach shifts from reactive to addressing problems before they become crises.

When I took office, many county buildings were in terrible shape—leaky roofs, broken systems, and general neglect. These buildings belong to the taxpayers and house our dedicated workforce. We’ve made it a priority to bring these

spaces up to standard, both for the employees and the public who rely on these services.

Here are just a few of the results our taxpayers are already seeing: • 246 acres of land preserved—a significant increase from previous years, thanks to reforms in the Department of Economic Planning that streamlined the process.

• Sewer projects funded in Smithtown, Wyandanch, Wheatley Heights, Deer Park, the Forge River, and Southwest Sewer Districts. These projects are critical for protecting our environment and revitalizing downtown areas.

• $56 million invested in public safety equipment, ensuring our police and first responders are better equipped to keep our communities safe.

• Major improvements to county parks planned for 2025, offering enhanced recreational spaces for families.

• Micro transit zones to improve connectivity on the East End, making it easier for residents to access essential services and work opportunities.

None of this would be possible without the incredible team I have by my side.

Together, we are committed to making Suffolk County safer, more affordable, and a place where every resident can thrive.

I look forward to continuing this important work next year and wish all of you a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) has served as Suffolk County Executive since 2024. He served as a Suffolk County Legislator from 1985 to 1989 and again from 2005 to 2012. He served as Suffolk County Clerk from 1989 until 2005, and as Brookhaven Town Supervisor from 2012 until 2023.

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THE TOWNLINE RAIL TERMINAL

ADVISORY COUNCIL Dear Community Members,

You may also reach me by mail at the following address:

In January 2025, Carlson Corp and Townline Rail will launch a monthly Zoom meeting to discuss the development of the Townline Rail Terminal Project. These meetings are designed to educate and inform the community about the progress and details of this important initiative.

Toby Carlson, 140 Old Northport Rd., Kings Park, NY 11754

We are currently seeking volunteers from the community to serve as community representatives or advocates. These individuals will closely follow the project’s development and help share updates and insights with others who may not have the ability or resources to engage directly.

If you are interested in taking an advisory role in this significant project, we encourage you to reach out. This is an unpaid position and would require a commitment of 4 to 8 hours per month.

To express your interest, please email me directly at Toby@carlsoncorp.com.

Kindly include a brief paragraph about yourself, your interest in the project, and how you feel you could bring value to the advisory council.

140 Old Northport Road Kings Park, New York 11754 631 368 4000 | CarlsonCorp.com

We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make this project a success for the entire community.

Best regards,

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Thursday, December 19, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

The End of the Long Obama Era

By Walter Samuel | Outside AMAC Contributor

In December of 2016, President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, and much of their staff gathered to listen to a performance by the cast of the musical Hamilton at the White House. When the actors performed the song “One Last Time,” in which George Washington explains his decision to retire over the objections of Alexander Hamilton, the Democratic audience broke into tears, drawing parallels to the end of Obama’s tenure and viewing the impending Trump administration as the end of an era.

They were eight years too early. November 2016 was merely the beginning of the end.

It is fitting that a musical about the life of Alexander Hamilton became the cultural zeitgeist of the Obama administration’s dying days. Hamilton was the founding father who was most skeptical of the idea of democratic self-government, believing in the necessity of unelected institutions to restrain it.

Like Hamilton’s Federalist Party, the Democratic Party (and quite a few nominal Republicans) gave up on the American people, preferring instead to place their faith blindly in powerful institutions. Like the Federalists, they were wrong and found themselves swept away by the tide of history.

Most importantly, just as most Federalists, including John Quincy Adams, made their peace with that reality, more than a few on the left today seem to be reacting to Trump’s re-election not with the horror that followed Hillary Clinton’s 2016 defeat, but with relief.

One of the most promising developments over the last month has been the acceptance by an increasing number of Democrats and left-wingers that there can be no going back. They will need to make their peace with the Trump era.

I predicted this exact outcome several months ago when I suggested that what was at stake in this election was the future direction of both parties. A Harris victory would be a victory for the suburban professional elites who had dominated American politics between 1988 and 2016 by acting as swing voters. It would have sent a message that Democrats could win in alliance with them, while Republicans could not win against

them, leading both parties to pander to institutionalist elites.

By contrast, a victory for President Trump would demonstrate that those largely white professionals no longer wielded decisive power, in the process not just empowering conservative supporters of Donald Trump, but also critics within the Democratic coalition.

That is precisely what is happening. Donald Trump’s victory has shifted power within both parties. On the Republican side, it has empowered Donald Trump to stand firm against establishment opposition to his agenda, shifting the balance of power that existed during his first term.

More interesting are the developments on the Democratic side, where Trump’s victory has empowered figures like the Young Turks’ Cenk Uyghur to speak out in favor of working with the new Department of Government Efficiency to attack the entrenched Pentagon bureaucracy. Bernie Sanders, meanwhile, has flirted with endorsing Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s efforts to challenge Big Pharma.

Both developments mark a break with a Democratic Party which under Barack Obama identified with those academic elites who staff bureaucratic institutions, and then under Joe Biden identified the nation itself with institutional bureaucracy.

Questioning public health experts became conspiratorial under this Democratic Party, and parents questioning educational officials became domestic terrorists. Questioning the intelligence community, meanwhile, became sedition, and questioning election officials became an “attack on democracy.” To paraphrase South Park, the mantra “Are you questioning my authority?” replaced appeals to the working-class as the classwarfare battle cry of the Democratic party during the Obama and Biden years.

Democrats’ forced introspection is a healthy development for the country.

It is difficult to overstate how toxic the identification of the Democratic Party with the bureaucratic class of America’s institutions was for both parties. It corrupted both. With the Democratic Party becoming little more than a deferential bodyguard for whatever Continued on following page

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Overview - AMAC The Association of Mature American Citizens

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The Association of Mature American Citizens represents Americans 50 plus. AMAC is centered on American values, freedom of the individual, free speech, and exercise of religion, equality of opportunity, sanctity of life, rule of law, and love of family, with benefits at all levels.

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Continued from previous page

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decisions these institutions produced, there was no pushback when they embraced dangerous fads such as child gender transition or demonstrated repeated incompetence on everything from national security to basic law and order.

Democrats blindly adopted policies which were not just toxic, but self-evidently mad, not because they appealed to voters or even to many Democrats themselves, but because their “betters” told them to. Their embrace of open borders, child gender transition, and defund the police were the products not of internal debate, but deference to authority.

As for those institutions, the deference of the Democratic Party to them exacerbated longstanding tendencies toward unaccountability.

Agencies such as the CIA and FBI have been prone to seeing themselves as the true defenders of the nation for decades, treating elected officials as little more than inconveniences – something that generations of American liberals used to be well aware of.

With Democrats suddenly embracing these agencies’ delusions of grandeur, they began to perceive the refusal of Donald Trump and his supporters within the Republican party to do the same as a threat to themselves. Identifying themselves with the national interest, it was a short step to categorize support for Donald Trump as a threat to the nation.

The result was increasingly blatant interventions into domestic politics, matched with an internal homogenization that pushed out dissenters. If Donald Trump represented a threat to the FBI and CIA, then it followed that Donald Trump supporters within the FBI and CIA could not be loyal to those institutions. Even apolitical types who did not “recognize” the “threat” were less reliable than partisans.

As a result, Republicans hoping to gain entry to these institutions were forced to hide their politics.

The spread of DEI throughout the Pentagon and intelligence agencies has been a more complicated process than a mere mandate from the Biden or Obama administrations, as it accelerated while Donald Trump was president as well. It was an organic response to the Democrats making loyalty to the bureaucracy a core ideological principle, which is why the far-left takeover of institutions cannot be ended merely with an executive order from a newly inaugurated President Donald Trump.

Ultimately, the left’s attempt to politicize everything from the FBI to corporate board rooms had the precise opposite impact as the stated goals of DEI or diversity. Rather than bringing institutions closer to the American people, it turned a gap into a chasm, with the added effect of dragging not just institutions, but the Democratic Party into open opposition with the American people. The consequences were on full display in November, when every demographic group except for white women with college degrees swung toward Donald Trump.

Most importantly, the defeat seems to have left the Democratic institutional alliance with no pathway forward. Following the 2016 election, both sides consoled themselves with the belief that their combined forces could have reversed the outcome. Through the 2022 midterms, they could convince themselves that they had done so.

The 2024 results, however, have revealed the

truth. The Democratic Party, even with the support of the FBI, CIA, higher education, and much of corporate America, cannot win elections, and therefore cannot deliver the political protection those institutions need.

In turn, the support of those institutions is clearly not enough to allow Democrats to win elections, which is causing many on the left to question just what they have gained by sacrificing their principles on the altar of rehabilitation for the Liz Cheneys of the world, or treating Anthony Fauci as the Oracle of Delphi.

Make no mistake: this breakup is not coming because the institutions and Democratic Party have realized their alliance has been bad for America. It is coming because

they realize that it is bad for them.

Nonetheless, its end will be good for America because it has the potential to restore a balance to both the American government and society. America needs political parties based around different ideas, not a political party based around having no ideas other than blind deference to authority. It needs institutions that see themselves as servants of the will of the American people as expressed through elections, not ones who see one of those parties as the instrument of their will.

Increasingly, that looks like what Donald Trump’s second term will deliver as its legacy.

B R I N G I N G B R OADWAY TO M AI N S T R E E T O N

S T A G E

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N E X T

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the musical

Bits & Pieces

20

WORD OF THE

Week

Etymology: late Middle English: via Old French from Latin jocundus, variant (influenced by jocus ‘joke’) of jucundus ‘pleasant, agreeable’, from juvare ‘to delight’

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, December 19, 2024

SUDOKU

JOCUND Adjective Pronounced: jaa·knd Definition: cheerful and lighthearted

Example: “The holiday season culminated with a jocund office party.”

Synonyms: merry, bright, jolly Antonyms: melancholy, crestfallen, disconsolate Source: Oxford Languages

See bottom left for the answers (please don’t cheat!)

This Week in History December 19, 1958: First radio broadcast from space, US President Dwight D. Eisenhower (R-KS) sends a Christmas message “to all mankind, America’s wish for peace on Earth and goodwill to men everywhere”

WORD WHEEL R

T O

F V

December 20, 1946:

U A

Christmas classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” film, directed by Frank Capra, starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore premieres in New York

First game of basketball, based on rules created

by James Naismith, played by 18 students in Springfield, Massachusetts

December 23, 1888: Vincent van Gogh purportedly cuts off his left ear, after argument with fellow painter Paul Gauguin, and sends to a female courtesan for safe keeping

December 22, 1989:

December 25, 1:

After 23 years of dictatorial rule, Romania ousts Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu

The first Christmas according to calendar-maker and Eastern Roman monk Dionysius Exiguus

December 24, 1818:

See how many words you can create.

Must have center letter in word and can use letters more than once.

4 letter word minimum.

December 21, 1891:

Christmas carol “Silent Night” composed by Franz Xaver Gruber is first sung at St Nicholas parish church in Oberndorf, Austria

In Memoriam Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

By PJ Balzer

Thursday, December 19, 2024

21

The Impact of One Life

This past week, the William Floyd basketball community and Mastic Beach, Mastic, and Shirley community at-large lost a giant.

Maybe not necessarily a giant in power, prestige, or resources as most would define the words. But a giant in heart, in service to others, in selflessness, and most importantly, a giant in love. Coach Darrell Sumpter of Mastic Beach unexpectedly lost his life in a tragic car accident on Sunrise Highway on Friday at the age of 51.

The Messenger wrote a story on Darrell not even a year ago. “The Muscle Behind the Hustle” was a full-page story highlighting Coach Darrell’s love for his community, its children, and youth; the extra mile he went for each individual; how he used the game of basketball to attempt to divert young people away from the streets and idleness, towards the court, hard work, scholastics, and lifelong lessons of practicing discipline. In the process of caring for his players both on and off the court, Darrell was central and monumental to the rebuilding of the success of the basketball program at William Floyd. friends, and school staff to present the family with the game ball. It was hard to find a single dry eye in the building.

During my last interview with Darrell in January of last year for “The Muscle Behind the Hustle,” my closing question to Coach D was, “So Coach, before we wrap up the interview, I’d like to know a personal and lifelong goal of yours. It can be basketball related or not, something personal you’d like to achieve.”

Darrell’s only answer was, “I’d like to have a thousand people at my funeral who my life has had an impact on. That’s true success in my opinion.”

Well done, Coach D.

Later Friday afternoon, as his community learned of his untimely passing, social media started to explode with pictures, stories, and tributes to a true friend of his community. Childhood friends, school staff, current and past players of his, coaches from opposing schools, and neighbors began surfacing stories about “Coach D.” Many recalled how he had helped them and been a friend to them through a hard season of life; he had given to them regardless of himself being in need. Childhood friends posted pictures of from their teenage years and hanging out around the Tri-Hamlet community, while former players posted video and audio clips of his inspirational words. In one recording Coach Darrell is heard saying, “I know your dad’s not here, but he’d be so proud of you if he was. I know how much he loved you and seeing you play basketball.”

Since then, the community has rallied around the Sumpter family including Darrell’s wife and children. Dejah Sumpter, Darrell’s daughter and right hand in both coaching and helping, posted a GoFundMe asking the community and everyone who loved her father with assistance for a proper burial. The GoFundMe has raised upwards of $60,000 and is still rolling. With many people expressing that for all Coach D has done for them, the least they could do is contribute. Some of the contributions are coming even from local children who sent whatever they could. One donation was for $11, which alone speaks in volumes.

Darrell Sumpter leaves not only a legacy of love behind for the sport of basketball and his players, but also for his family first and foremost. He loved his family and his children visibly, daily, and practically, making love an action word not only a phrase. By doing this, he has set an example for many young people in the community without present fathers of what one was supposed to do and the great responsibility being a father is.

Tuesday evening, only a few days after their assistant coach’s passing, the William Floyd boys’ varsity team took on the neighboring Longwood Lions in a game that the Colonials dedicated to Darrell. It was an emotional night for the thousand in attendance as a beautiful speech was given and a thousand people sat in complete silence to give honor to the empty seat on the Colonials’ bench. After an intense backand-forth game, the Colonials came out on top by a score of 66-57. After the game, a few hundred people gathered around the Sumpter family including alumni, family

22

Holiday News Thursday, December 19, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Brookhaven Fire Marshal Demonstrates Dramatic Christmas Tree Fire Hazards

By Cait Crudden

Editor’s Note: Although this demonstration was conducted by the Town of Brookhaven, we feel it is pertinent enough to readers in Smithtown and Islip as well. Suffolk County held their own holiday fire demonstration at the Suffolk County Fire Academy in Yaphank. We have included extra details from that press conference here as well.

This past week, Brookhaven Town Chief Fire Marshal Chris Mehrman, alongside Supervisor Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches), Deputy Supervisor Neil Foley (R-Blue Point), and members of the Town Board, delivered a striking demonstration to highlight the dangers of improperly cared-for live Christmas trees. The event, held at the town’s Division of Fire Prevention, utilized a “burn pod” staged to resemble a living room, where the rapid ignition of a dry Christmas tree was dramatically showcased.

The demonstration began with an attempt to ignite a branch from a fresh, well-watered Christmas tree. The branch did not burn, illustrating the importance of proper tree care. In stark contrast, a dry, unwatered tree quickly erupted into flames, engulfing the “burn pod” in a matter of seconds.

The fire destroyed the simulated living room, including gift-wrapped packages, vividly showing how a small oversight can lead to devastating consequences.

Chief Fire Marshal Mehrman also took the opportunity to educate attendees on the proper use of Christmas tree lights, emphasizing fire safety during the holiday season.

Supervisor Panico underscored the seriousness of the demonstration: “It took only seconds for this fire to develop and cause severe damage in the burn pod. This was a frightening, first-hand look at what could happen to a home if Christmas trees are not sufficiently watered. I urge everyone to follow all the fire safety precautions and have a safe and happy holiday season.”

The demonstration was accompanied by sobering statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Between 2016 and 2020, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home structure fires per

year caused by ignited Christmas trees. These fires resulted in 2 civilian deaths annually, 11 civilian injuries annually and $12 million in direct property damage annually.

Although Christmas tree fires have declined over the past 20 years, the risk remains significant. In 2020, 180 Christmas tree-related fires were reported, with 41% occurring in December and 33% in January. Electrical distribution and lighting equipment accounted for 44% of these fires, with heating equipment contributing to 13%.

The County stated that over 21 million real Christmas trees will be sold for home use this year. Between 2018 and 2020, 800 fires were caused by holiday decorations. Of those, 38% were electrical, 35% were due to wiring (cords, plugs, bad lights, or circuit overload), 20% were from heating sources, and 7% were from candles.

To ensure a fire-safe holiday season, residents are urged to follow these NFPA recommendations: Select a fresh tree. Choose one with green needles that do not fall off when touched. Remember to trim the trunk. Cut 1–2 inches from the base of the tree before placing it in the stand. Position your tree carefully. Keep the tree at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles, and heat vents. Ensure it does not block an exit. Hydrate your tree daily. Add water to the tree stand and refill it daily.

Always be mindful with the lights. Use lights that are in good condition, free of frayed wires or broken bulbs. Turn lights off when leaving the house or going to bed. For more tips on holiday fire safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.

This demonstration served as a vital reminder of the importance of fire safety during the holidays, ensuring that families can enjoy the season safely and without incident.

The County shares, in addition to the advice of Brookhaven, that residents should only buy trees from reputable sellers, avoid overloading outlets – stick to one high-wattage appliance per socket to avoid overheating – and keep cords out of reach to prevent chewing hazards for household pets.

Sports Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Comsewogue Girls Bowling: Getting the Ball Rolling in 2024-2025

23

By Ashley Pavlakis

Bowling is usually a fun pastime activity for kids or adults to enjoy a day out.

But for the Comsewogue varsity girls bowling team, they’re bowling to win.

The Warriors are members of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) and compete in League I. They are led by twenty-one-year head coach Brian “Bo” Frimmer, an avid bowler himself who enjoys the game and the job.

“Last year we did pretty well, we were in league III and we finished in second place behind East Islip. We went to Counties and didn’t really fare too well, but the girls were excited that we made it. It was a full day of tournamentstyle bowling so it’s fun,” said Frimmer.

Frimmer was excited at the prospect of having the same group of girls this year, giving the team a chance

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to build upon the work from last season.

“There’s eight girls on the team and they’re all returning from last year. We didn’t have any seniors last year so it was nice to be able to have a full returning squad. They’ve all been bowling together now for three, four, years cause a lot of them started when they were in middle school,” said Frimmer.

For the Warriors, they have three girls who can bowl hardcore when called upon. Izzy Grillo, Reese Agarenzo, and Sasha Pagan are Frimmer’s top gals.

“They bowl against girls from the other team, so it’s head-to-head. Each point really matters to try and win the match. I always try and put my best against their best to try and get as many match points as we can.”

Sophomore Izzy Grillo, who has been on the team since seventh grade, bowled a 740 versus Middle Country. She set a new series high as well as a new game high with a score of 279.

“It feels great. The game just went on and I could just feel myself getting better and better with the lanes. It just felt much more natural and I ended up bowling better than I thought I would,” Grillo told The Messenger.

Frimmer stressed the importance of bowling being a strategic and mental game. Finetuning in practice helps to keep

things flowing during matches.

“What we work on a lot in practice is just making spares. The biggest thing with bowling is you just gotta make your spares. I tell the girls all the time, you’re going to make your runs with your strikes, but if you have an open frame, it kind of destroys your score,” said Frimmer.

Bowling might not be for everyone, but the Comsewogue Warriors, they’re learning the ins and outs of what it means to bowl like a pro.

“You can’t just get up there and pick up a house ball and chuck it, there’s a lot more to it and you have to know your oil patterns, how your ball is going to break, how the lanes are going to break down,” said Frimmer.

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Messenger Spotlight

Thursday, December 19, 2024 Photo credit - Janette Pellegrini

CM Performing Arts Presents: ‘A Christmas Story: The Musical’

By Diane Caudullo

This holiday season, the CM Performing Arts Center is bringing to life the heartwarming and humorous tale of Ralphie Parker with its delightful production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical.” Set in the 1940s, this charming musical adaptation captures the essence of the beloved 1983 film, offering audiences a nostalgic journey filled with laughter, warmth, and holiday cheer.

Talented Cast Breathes Life into Beloved Characters At the heart of this production is the talented cast, whose performances have been met with sold out shows. Brady Schumacher and Jackson Rodin take turns portraying the determined and imaginative nine-year-old Ralphie Parker, each delivering a performance that captures the character’s innocence and relentless pursuit of his dream Christmas gift: an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.Their energetic and authentic portrayals make Ralphie’s adventures both relatable and endearing.

Ryan Nolin shines as “The Old Man,” Ralphie’s gruff yet loving father. Nolin’s performance strikes a perfect balance between humor and heart, especially in scenes featuring the infamous leg lamp and his humorous battles with the household furnace. Mary Caulfield brings warmth and patience to the role of Mrs. Parker, the nurturing mother who holds the family together amidst the holiday chaos.

A classic story brilliantly narrated by James O’Connor as the audience all relived all the moments made famous by the original film, seeing it evoked fond memories while offering new and delightful moments. Families, in particular, have found the musical to be an ideal holiday outing, with its appeal spanning generations.

Attendees have highlighted the engaging performances of the cast, especially the young actors playing Ralphie and Randy. Their energy and authenticity have resonated with both children and adults, making the characters come alive in a way that is both vibrant and relatable.

The balance of humor and heart in the musical has struck a chord with audiences. Iconic scenes, such as the leg lamp dance and Ralphie’s imaginative daydreams, elicit laughter and warmth, while the production’s creative staging and catchy musical numbers, including “Ralphie to the Rescue!” and “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!” add to the overall enjoyment and festive spirit.

A beautifully performed song of “What a Mother Does” by Mary Caulfield had emotions high throughout the audience. Highlighting the love and beauty of the everyday family routine where nothing, yet everything, is special.

“A Christmas Story: The Musical” at CM Performing Arts, really captures the magic of the season. The combination of a talented cast, engaging performances, and enthusiastic audience response makes this show a memorable and heartwarming experience for all who attend. This production not only brings the classic story to life but also reinforces the enduring charm and joy of Ralphie Parker’s timeless Christmas adventure.

CM Performing Arts Center is located at 931 Montauk Highway in Oakdale.