Fleece and Fiber Festival at Hallockville Museum Farm
Town of Islip Music Festival
May 17, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
June 1, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
May 11, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Nesconset Spring Fling
Fleece and Fiber Festival at Hallockville Museum Farm
May 18, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Riverhead Mosaic Street Painting Festival
Jones Beach Air Show
June 1, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
May 24-25, 10:00 to 4:00 PM
May 17, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Ronkonkoma Street Fair
Nesconset Spring Fling
May 18, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
May 25, Hawkins Avenue
Smithtown Festival Day
June 1, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Riverhead Mosaic Street Painting Festival
Jones Beach Air Show
May 24-25, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
June 1, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Butterfly and Bird Festival at Sweetbriar Nature Center
Smithtown Festival Day
Smithtown Village Craft Fair
June 1, Main Street
June 7, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
May 24-25, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Butterfly and Bird Festival at Sweetbriar Nature Center
Splish Splash Opening Day
May 24
Famous Food Truck Festival at Deer Park Outlets
June 7, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
June 6-8, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Famous Food Truck Festival at Deer Park Outlets
Ronkonkoma Memorial Day Weekend Street Fair
June 6-8, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Lavender Festival at Waterdrinker Farm
Lavender Festival at Waterdrinker Farm
May 25, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
June 7-8, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
June 7-8, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Ocean Beach Memorial Day Parade
Farmingville Street Fair
May 26, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Farmingville Street Fair
June 8, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
June 8, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
7
Diane Caudullo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Matt Meduri STAFF
Cait Crudden
Raheem Soto ART
Sergio A. Fabbri GRAPHIC
Colin Herr
CONTRIBUTORS
PJ Balzer
Ashley Pavlakis
Madison Warren Smithtown, NY 11787-0925 Signature:
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
By Matt Meduri
May 8, 2025
Two Weeks of Free Golf for Suffolk Veterans
Although Wednesday morning was a bit overcast, sunny days are certainly ahead for Suffolk County, especially for those looking to hit the links.
Appropriately, the county with the secondlargest Veterans population in the country is helping those who served enjoy the summer a bit more: Veterans will be able to receive two free weeks of golf at select County courses.
These courses include Timber Point Golf Course in Great River, West Sayville Golf Course in West Sayville, Indian Island Golf Course in Riverhead, and the Bergen Point Golf Course in West Babylon.
The initiative was sponsored by Suffolk County Legislator Trish Bergin (R-East Islip) and co-sponsored by Legislator Chad Lennon (C-Rocky Point), the latter serving as the Vice Chair of the Veterans Committee.
Bergin and Lennon were joined by several Veterans’ advocates and leaders at Timber Point Golf Course in Great River on Wednesday morning to announce the initiative.
“It’s time that we say thank you again, and there’s never enough thank-yous for the sacrifice that our Veterans give to our country for our freedoms,” said Bergin. “So, it’s a nice opportunity for our Veterans to come out and golf. It’s two free weeks, one in May and one in November.”
Lennon, a Marine Corps Veteran himself and current Reservist, was eager to co-sponsor.
“A week during Armed Forces Week, the week of Veterans Day, is the perfect time,” said Lennon. “I know our Veterans are going to go out there and take advantage of this, as well as our service members who are still active-duty.”
Roby Johnson, of the Rusy Bohm American Legion Post #411 (Islip hamlet), is also the Chair of the Town of Islip Veterans Advisory Board. Johnson served in Vietnam from Christmas Day 1966 to Pearl Harbor Day 1967.
“It means a lot to me as a Veteran, and I know as other Veterans, especially
the golfing community of Veterans, they’re really going to appreciate this,” said Johnson. “It shows how much the community, the county, the town, think of our Veterans. Thank you.”
“Recognizing Veterans and the sacrifice that they make leaving behind their families and going and risking their lives for all of us. This is the least that we can do to say thank you in return,” said Bergin.
Timber Point Golf Course is located at 398 Great River Road in Great River.
West Sayville Golf Course is located at 200 Montauk Highway in West Sayville.
Indian Island Golf Course is located at 661 Riverside Drive in Riverhead hamlet.
Bergen Point Golf Course is located at 69 Bergen Avenue in West Babylon.
Huntington Station Man Sentenced to 23 Years for Assaulting Toddler
By Raheem Soto
In a case that underscored both the limits of trust and the role of accountability, a Huntington Station man was recently sentenced to 23 years in prison for the brutal assault of his girlfriend’s two-year-old daughter. The child, who had been left in his care while the mother went to work, sustained injuries so severe that emergency surgery was required to save her life.
The defendant’s name has been withheld so as to preserve the privacy of the child.
The incident occurred between February 17 and 19, 2024. During that time, the defendant — 33 years old — was babysitting the toddler. When the mother returned home, she noticed visible bruising. By the next day, the child was vomiting, unresponsive, and unable to stand. The mother brought her to Huntington Hospital, where doctors determined the child’s condition was critical. She was then transferred to Cohen Children’s Medical Center, where surgeons identified a significant injury to the small intestine caused by blunt force trauma.
On February 28, 2025, after a jury trial, the defendant was found guilty of Assault in the First Degree (a Class B violent felony), two counts of Assault in the Second Degree, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. On May 1, 2025, he was sentenced by Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei to 23 years in prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision.
District Attorney Ray Tierney (R), whose office prosecuted the case, issued a clear statement following the sentencing:
“Suffolk will not tolerate violence against children. I thank the jury for holding the defendant accountable for this vicious beating of a toddler.”
Assistant District Attorneys Katherine Flinchum and Kirsten Reilly of the Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Bureau handled the case. The investigation was led by Detective Christopher Albanese of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Special Victims Section.
What makes this case especially sobering is not just the violence itself but the circumstances that allowed it to happen. There were no strangers involved, no complex criminal plot — just a young child left in the care of someone who should have never been trusted with that responsibility.
Legal systems, by design, respond after the fact. In this instance, the process worked as intended. The evidence was presented, guilt was established beyond a reasonable doubt, and sentencing was handed down accordingly. Justice was delivered. However, that does not mean the problem is solved.
Holbrook Man Sentenced to 53 Years for Major Drug Trafficking Operation
By Raheem Soto
A Suffolk County man has been sentenced to 53 years in state prison after being convicted of operating a large-scale narcotics operation that involved deadly fentanyl, high-grade cocaine, and illegal firearms.
The conviction followed a multi-agency investigation that linked the defendant to two fatal overdoses and a sophisticated drug trafficking network stretching across Suffolk County.
Russell Defreitas, 55, also known as “Merc,” (pictured right) was found guilty on 92 separate counts following a jury trial and was sentenced on April 29, 2025, by Acting Supreme Court Justice Anthony Senft. Among the charges were Operating as a Major Drug Trafficker, multiple counts of drug possession and sale, weapons violations, perjury, and tampering with physical evidence.
victims in his possession.
During a court proceeding in May 2023, Defreitas testified on his behalf but was later charged with three counts of perjury for providing false statements under oath.
District Attorney Ray Tierney (R) commented on the sentencing, citing the limitations of current state law in addressing overdose deaths:
The investigation began in September 2022, when law enforcement responded to a fatal overdose in Holbrook. That incident led members of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office East End Drug Task Force to uncover a broader narcotics ring operating in and around Suffolk County. Defreitas, according to prosecutors, was at the center of the operation.
Evidence presented at trial detailed the extent of Defreitas’s involvement. On March 9, 2023, he rented a hotel room where a man and woman later overdosed. Rather than seek medical help, Defreitas instructed his associates not to call 911 and instead returned to remove drugs and paraphernalia from the room. He then went to a nearby Wendy’s to eat. Hours later, an associate called 911, but by then, both individuals were dead.
Defreitas was arrested on March 11, 2023, at another hotel. Search warrants executed that day uncovered cocaine, fentanyl, two loaded firearms, cutting agents, drug packaging equipment, and multiple hotel room key cards. Investigators also recovered bank cards belonging to overdose
“Today’s sentencing of this major trafficker, while significant, highlights the urgent need for stronger legislation. Chelsey’s Law in New York State would give prosecutors additional tools to hold dealers accountable when their products cause death,” said Tierney, mentioning a bill that he, along with many elected officials and family members, have lobbied for passage in Albany over the last couple years.
“This defendant’s actions directly led to two overdose fatalities, yet our current laws don’t allow us to charge these preventable deaths as the homicides that they are,” he said.
While fentanyl accounts for 67% of overdose deaths nationwide, according to the CDC, New York’s current legal framework does not classify fatal overdoses as homicides under state law. The proposed Chelsey’s Law seeks to change that by allowing prosecutors to pursue homicide charges against dealers whose drugs lead to death.
Defreitas represented himself at trial. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Jacob T. Kubetz and Raquel G. Tisi of the Narcotics Bureau, with investigative support from Detective Investigator William Warren of the East End Task Force.
With fentanyl now present in nearly 8 out of 10 drug-related deaths in Suffolk County, the outcome of this case illustrates both the scale of the problem and the current legal barriers in prosecuting overdose-linked fatalities.
For now, one drug trafficker is off the streets— but the laws surrounding accountability remain under review.
Holbrook Dad Sentenced for Toddler’s Death
By Hank Russell | Long Island Life and Politics
A Holbrook man was sentenced to five to fifteen years in prison for his role in the fatal overdose death of his 14-month-old son.
Wilkens Adonis, age 39, of Holbrook (pictured right), was sentenced to 5 to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty in March to Manslaughter in the Second Degree, for his role in the fatal overdose of his 14-monthold son, Joseph Adonis.
On January 3, 2024, Suffolk County Police responded to a 911 call reporting an unresponsive child at a Holbrook residence. When they arrived, law enforcement found Wilkens Adonis, his girlfriend, and their unresponsive 14-month-old son, Joseph Adonis, in the couple’s bedroom. The toddler was taken via ambulance to Stony Brook University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
When Suffolk County Homicide Squad detectives responded to the home to investigate, they found narcotics and drug paraphernalia in the bedroom where the child had been found. As a result, members of the Suffolk County Narcotics Section were called to assist with the investigation.
A search warrant of the apartment was executed, and law enforcement found over
one-eighth ounce of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, over one-eighth ounce of cocaine, alprazolam, methadone, drug packaging materials, digital scales, an electronic stun gun, a loaded shotgun, and a rifle — all of which were unsecured and easily accessible to the defendants’ children.
After conducting an autopsy, the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that the child’s cause of death was acute mixed drug intoxication by a mixture of heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl.
On March 17, 2024, Adonis pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the Second Degree, a Class C felony; Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree, a Class C felony; and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a Class A misdemeanor, before Acting Supreme Court Justice Philip Goglas.
On May 7, 2025, Adonis was sentenced to 5 to 15 years in prison
“The death of 14-month-old Joseph Adonis was as preventable as it was tragic,” said Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney (R). “Fentanyl should not be in houses where children reside. This should be a wake-up call to our state lawmakers. They need to make common-sense changes to our laws to protect children.”
National, State, and Local Temperature Checks
By Matt Meduri
National
The 2026 electoral landscape continues to take shape.
Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) (pictured right), one of the most powerful Democrats of the upper chamber, has recently announced he will not seek a sixth term next November. Durbin served in the U.S. House from 1983 to 1997 until his election in 1996. He has served as the Senate Democratic Whip since 2005, working under the majority leaders Harry Reid (D-NV) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Not only is Durbin the longest-serving Senate party whip in history, but he is also the dean of Illinois’ congressional delegation, meaning he’s served in Congress longer than his fellow Senator - Tammy Duckworth (D) - and the entire House delegation from the Prairie State.
more down-to-earth moderate over state counterparts, such as Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (R, GA14), who is generally seen as one of the party’s most toxic liabilities.
In other federal news, President Donald Trump (RFL) last week removed Mike Waltz (R-FL) from his post as National Security Advisor and tapped Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R-FL) to serve as interim advisor.
While Durbin’s vacancy doesn’t necessarily create a competitive race in blue Illinois, it does seem to have set off a scramble for which Democrat could clinch the relatively easy promotion.
Durbin has had the perk of having run in generally good Democratic years, with the 2014 Republican wave holding him to just an eleven-point margin.
Durbin’s 2014 margin more or less matches Kamala Harris’ (D-CA) margin in the presidential contest last year, a remarkable shift among one of the nation’s bluest strongholds.
But Illinois hasn’t exactly been friendly to the GOP for Senate races, with the Party of Lincoln having only won two elections since 1998. The last was Mark Kirk (R), who won the 2010 special election to fill Barack Obama’s (DIL) seat when he became president. Kirk then lost in 2016 to Duckworth.
Republicans haven’t won Durbin’s seat since 1978.
As of press time, Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D, IL-02) and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D, IL-08) have thrown their hats into the ring, with Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D, IL-14) having publicly expressed interest.
The race is likely to set off a tough primary for high-profile congressional members vying for the seat, a feature of the race the GOP could capitalize on, provided their primary isn’t divided, and if the race becomes engaged by next summer.
The House retirement list now grows to eleven, five Republicans and six Democrats - all of whom but one are seeking higher office. Congressman John James (R, MI-10) is a formidable candidate for Michigan governor, while Angie Craig (D, MN-02) poses a good opportunity for Democrats to hold Minnesota’s open Senate seat. Andy Barr (R, KY-06) also serves as a favorable prospect for the GOP to Kentucky’s Senate seat currently held and being opened by retiring Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY).
Initially, the move seemed disciplinary after the administration was involved in “Signalgate,” a national security incident in which Waltz included The Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg in a group chat on the messaging service Signal to discuss a military operation against the Iranbacked Yemeni Houthis. Goldberg subsequently leaked the chats.
Deputy National Security Advisor Alex Wong (R-NJ) was also implicated in the leaks and was removed from his post on May 1.
However, Waltz is now being teed up for Ambassador to the United Nations, a post originally intended for Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R, NY21) that was slow-walked by Senate Republicans to preserve a slim House majority. Stefanik’s nomination was withdrawn and she now seems all but certain to announce a bid for the 2026 New York gubernatorial contest.
State
Albany is reportedly trying to sneak in a last-minute provision to safeguard Attorney General Letitia James (D-Clinton Hill) (pictured left) amidst her apparently growing legal concerns.
Moreover, Republicans caught another tough break this week in their own prospects at expanding their majority.
Governor Brian Kemp (R-GA) has declined to run against freshman Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) in 2026. The Georgia race is seen as perhaps the most competitive, as Georgia appears to be a fully-fledged swing state. Kemp, who was narrowly elected governor in 2018 and more comfortably re-elected in 2022, is generally seen as a
residence, but also the number of units in an investment property, and listing her father as her husband. James has never married.
The charges, if true, would constitute mortgage fraud. She is also listed as a co-borrower on a house being purchased by her niece.
Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director William Pulte has asked U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi (R-FL) to investigate and consider prosecuting Letitia James.
Albany’s last-minute bill would cover those who “obtained representation by private counsel in response to any request, summons, command, subpoena, warrant, investigative interview or document request, audit, or legally compulsive process” started by the federal government after January 1, 2025.
James’ spokesperson has denied the allegations, stating, “Donald Trump promised a vicious revenge tour when he ran in 2024, and he’s put Attorney General James at the top of his list, and we’re ready to respond to these attacks.”
Local
The proposed $10 million taxpayerfooted fund would cover “any reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses incurred,” according to The New York Post, even if those legal probes are not directly related to the accused’s State employment.
The move comes at the tail-end of a drawn-out budget season in which negotiations have blown past the April 1 deadline as extender after extender is passed.
Under existing State law, current and former State employees can be reimbursed for legal fees to defend themselves from lawsuits that are directly associated with their work while in office. The Post notes former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s (D) (pictured right) scandals that are estimated to have cost New York taxpayers around $60 million.
James’ lawsuit stems from recent reports that she allegedly falsified bank documents and property records concerning a Norfolk, Virginia home, which James said would serve as her primary residence. The allegations also assert that James misrepresented facts in three separate instances to obtain government assistance and more favorable loan terms, with misrepresentations stemming not only from her state of primary
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) announced on Monday that the Suffolk County Water Quality Protection and Restoration Program and Land Stewardship Initiative (WQPRP) is now accepting applications for 2025. The launch coincides with Drinking Water Week on May 4-10.
“This program is an effective tool that aligns with our ongoing efforts to protect our waterways,” said Romaine. “This initiative brings local municipalities and our environmental community together with the goal of implementing critical water quality projects to make a significant impact throughout Suffolk County.”
“The WQPRP is a grant program funded under the Suffolk County Quarter-Percent Drinking Water Protection Program pursuant to Article XII of the Suffolk County Charter. It uses 11.75% of the total revenues generated each calendar year under the Quarter-Percent Drinking Water Protection Program to provide grant funding to municipalities and non-profit organizations for projects that protect and restore the County’s groundwater and surface water resources,” according to the County.
The application is open for municipalities, not-forprofit organizations, and Suffolk County departments. They can apply for projects such as: Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control & Pollution Prevention Initiatives; Habitat Restoration, Reclamation, and Connectivity; Land Stewardship Initiatives; No-Discharge Zone Implementation; and Education and Outreach.
A stipulation, however, is that eligible projects must be recommended for funding by the WQPRP Review Committee and subsequently approved by the eighteen-member Suffolk County Legislature.
Applications will be accepted through June 27, 2025. A virtual proposers conference will be held on Wednesday, May 21, at 11:00a.m.
For more information, contact wqprp@ suffolkcountyny.gov.
Trump and Zelenskyy Clash in Oval Office Over Ukraine Minerals Deal
By Cait Crudden
After a heated exchange earlier this year that erupted in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump (R-FL) and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over a proposed minerals deal that could reshape the geopolitical landscape and strengthen America’s financial stake in Ukraine’s future. The deal, which involves the United States securing access to Ukraine’s vast reserves of rare minerals, including lithium essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, has been touted by Trump as a strategic investment that would both recoup U.S. funds spent on Ukraine’s defense and ensure long-term stability in the region.
According to sources close to the administration, what began as a routine diplomatic meeting quickly escalated into a fiery debate as Trump pressed Zelensky on the necessity of securing American interests in exchange for continued U.S. financial and military backing. Trump insisted that the minerals deal would not only reimburse U.S. taxpayers for billions spent aiding Ukraine but also serve as a deterrent against Russian aggression by demonstrating America’s vested economic interest in Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Zelenskyy, while acknowledging the importance of U.S. investment, reportedly pushed back on certain terms, arguing that
Ukraine’s natural resources should remain under its control without excessive foreign influence. Trump, in turn, countered that without U.S. financial and military support, Ukraine would remain vulnerable to Russia’s relentless expansionist ambitions.
Ukraine possesses some of the largest reserves of lithium and other critical rare earth minerals in Europe. As the global demand for lithium skyrockets due to the EV revolution, securing access to these resources would provide the U.S. with a strategic supply chain advantage while weakening China’s dominance in the market. Trump emphasized that an economic partnership with Ukraine would be a “win-win,” ensuring Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction while allowing the U.S. to reap financial benefits from its significant aid contributions.
Beyond minerals, Trump pointed to the larger geopolitical implications of Russia’s continued war in Ukraine. If Russia were to succeed in its invasion, Moscow would gain control over critical trade routes in the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov, and the Dnieper River, cementing its access to Belarus—a puppet nation for Russian interests. Such control would enable Russia to exert influence over European supply chains and energy distribution, further destabilizing the region.
One of the most alarming concerns raised by Trump during the meeting was the prospect of Russia gaining control over Ukraine’s agricultural industry. Ukraine, often referred to as the “breadbasket of Europe,” supplies a significant portion of grain and other food products to European and third-world nations. Should Russia take over Ukraine’s fertile lands, the Kremlin could manipulate global food supplies, exacerbating hunger and economic instability worldwide.
Additionally, Trump and his advisors warned that Russian control over Ukraine’s nuclear power plants would create serious security risks, potentially giving the Kremlin additional leverage over European energy supplies. A Russian-controlled Ukraine could further embolden Vladimir Putin to exert influence over neighboring countries, undermining NATO’s strategic foothold in Eastern Europe.
Trump’s core argument in the Oval Office confrontation was that a financially vested United States would serve as a deterrent to Russian aggression. By ensuring that American industries and financial interests are deeply embedded in Ukraine’s postwar economy, the U.S. would make it clear to Putin that any attack on Ukraine would also be an attack on American economic interests.
Zelensky ultimately acknowledged the importance of continued American support but expressed reservations about losing too much control over Ukraine’s resources. While the Oval Office clash highlighted their differences, both leaders agreed on the fundamental objective: preventing a Russian victory and ensuring Ukraine remains free from Kremlin domination.
Following the intense discussion, both administrations are now working on refining the terms of a potential deal. Trump has directed U.S. trade and defense officials to explore additional incentives for Ukraine, while Zelensky’s team is reviewing proposals that ensure Ukraine retains sovereign oversight of its mineral wealth. The outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications, not only for Ukraine’s survival but for global markets, energy security, and international relations. With the stakes higher than ever, the U.S.-Ukraine partnership remains a crucial factor in countering Russian aggression. Whether the deal moves forward as envisioned by Trump or takes on a revised structure, one thing remains clear: America’s financial and strategic investment in Ukraine is essential for both nations’ futures and for deterring Putin’s ambitions.
The Moloney Family
LaLota Supports Bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act to Combat AI-Generated Exploitation of Minors
By Cait Crudden
Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) has joined a growing bipartisan movement in Congress to protect minors from the harmful and growing threat of artificial intelligencegenerated exploitation online. LaLota recently voted in favor of S. 146, the TAKE IT DOWN Act, a landmark bill that updates federal laws to address the spread of digitally altered explicit content, especially targeting material that victimizes children and teenagers.
“As a father raising three daughters in an increasingly digital world, I’m alarmed by the rise of AI-generated explicit content and the exploitation of innocent people online,” said LaLota. “The TAKE IT DOWN Act is a critical step to hold bad actors accountable and ensure that social media and web platforms aren’t complicit in the spread of digitally forged, graphic images. This bill updates outdated laws and gives victims—especially minors—the tools they need to fight back. I fully support the TAKE IT DOWN Act and am proud to support its House companion because no one should have their likeness twisted and weaponized against them.”
The TAKE IT DOWN Act, which passed with bipartisan support, aims to close major legal gaps in current law by addressing the unique challenges posed by AI and deepfake technology. The legislation strengthens protections for children and teens by criminalizing the non-consensual creation and distribution of explicit content generated using artificial intelligence, even if the imagery is digitally fabricated.
LaLota is also a cosponsor of the House companion bill, H.R. 633, introduced by Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (R, FL-27). Both the House and Senate versions of
the bill focus on modernizing the legal framework around online exploitation, giving law enforcement and victims more powerful tools to respond swiftly to abuses and enabling the removal of explicit deepfake content from online platforms.
The legislation is being hailed as a long-overdue update to federal law, which has struggled to keep pace with the rapid advances in generative technologies. While nearly all 50 states have laws that criminalize the non-consensual distribution of sexually explicit images commonly referred
Spanning
to as “revenge porn”, only 20 states have specific laws targeting deepfake non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII). Even among those, significant inconsistencies exist in how offenses are classified, prosecuted, and penalized.
Victims, especially minors, often face major hurdles in getting digitally altered images removed from websites, contributing to extended trauma and broader dissemination of harmful content. The TAKE IT DOWN Act addresses this problem directly by mandating that online platforms act swiftly to remove flagged content and by increasing accountability for those who knowingly distribute AIgenerated exploitation.
Over 100 national advocacy and child protection organizations have endorsed the bill, including groups focused on digital safety, civil rights, and technology ethics. They argue that this legislation is a crucial safeguard for young people in an era where realistic digital forgeries can be created and distributed at scale.
The TAKE IT DOWN Act represents one of the strongest federal efforts yet to combat the dark side of emerging AI tools and places the United States on firmer footing to address tech-enabled exploitation. With both Senate and House versions now advancing, lawmakers are optimistic that the measure will soon become law.
For LaLota, the vote reflects not only a policy stance but a deeply personal commitment. As a parent, he has personal skin in the game. If passed into law, the TAKE IT DOWN Act would be one of the most comprehensive federal protections for minors against AI-based exploitation to date.
Conveniently
By Matt Meduri
Sayville Dedicates Baseball Field to Coach Fitzpatrick
In some circles, the overarching thought of one’s purpose in life is to make as big of a mark on the world as possible.
In others’ views, however, making the biggest impact in your hometown can mean the world to generations before and after you.
That’s exactly what Sayville High School’s ceremony last week entailed, as it dedicated its baseball field to long-time coach and Vietnam War Veteran Barry Fitzpatrick.
The dedication took place shortly before the Sayville Golden Flashes’ game against Mt. Sinai, as part of Sayville’s annual Salute Our Troops Day.
Barry Fitzpatrick served with distinction in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1970, earning an honorable discharge as a first lieutenant.
Fitzpatrick then took up coaching baseball in Sayville, a position he would fulfill for over forty-five years. He served as varsity head coach from 1978 to 1999 and is the “winning-est” coach in Sayville history, boasting 316 victories and five league championships (1979, 1983, 1986, 1992, and 1999). Fitzpatrick was named Coach of the Year during each of those title-winning seasons.
Fitzpatrick also coached ninth-grade baseball, wrestling, and soccer. He also taught physical education from 1970 to 2003 across the Sayville Union Free School District’s four schools.
The renaming of the field in his honor was approved by the Board of Education in January. A bronze plaque has been installed on the Golden Flashes’ dugout and the banner above the scoreboard will bear his name, donated by the Sayville Athletic Foundation and the Sayville Baseball Booster Club.
“A coach, a teacher, a mentor, a leader, Barry Fitzpatrick has given his life to shaping the lives of young people both on and off our fields,” said Sayville Director of Physical Education, Health, and Interscholastic Athletics Dr. Ryan Cox. “But coach Fitz never truly hung up his cleats. Even after his retirement from teaching in 2003, he continued to coach as a loyal, passionate, and inspiring assistant coach, giving back every bit of wisdom and heart to this program, this school, and this community.”
A proud graduate of St. Bonaventure University, he joined the ROTC in 1964 and graduated in 1968 with a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He then trained at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he was then deployed to Vietnam.
“His legacy cannot be measured by numbers alone. It is written in the hearts of every athlete he coached, every student he taught, and every colleague who had the privilege of working alongside him,” said Dr. Cox.
Fitzpatrick was joined by his wife, Barbara, his children, Brian, Wendy, Thomas, and Barry, and eight grandchildren, Emma, Sean, Molly, Allison, Elizabeth, Timothy, Luke, and Luna.
“Coach Fitz, you are a Sayville Athletic Hall of Famer, a decorated Veteran, a true hero, not only in the service to your country but in how you lived your life with humility, courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others,” said Dr. Cox. “You have taught us all what it means to lead, to say, ‘Coach, you are one of the finest people I’ve ever met.’”
The ceremony was especially emotional for Dr. Cox, as he played for Fitzpatrick in the mid-1990s, later coached beside him for twenty years. He credits Fitzpatrick for having “shaped” his life, values, and the person he is today.
Town of Islip Councilman John Lorenzo (C-West Sayville) honored Fitzpatrick on behalf of the Town.
“Thank you, Coach Fitz, for all you have done for the community and for serving our nation,” said Lorenzo. “On behalf of the supervisor and a full Town Board, we’d like to thank you for all that you’ve done for our community over the years. Thank you so much, sir.”
Fitzpatrick’s wife, Barbara, spoke on Coach Fitz’s behalf.
“We know how much Barry loves Baseball and loves the school and we wanted him to be able to see how much they love him,” adding that Coach Fitz had been eager to throw out the game’s first pitch. She shared a humorous story detailing a game in which Coach Fitz likely would have been thrown out by the umpires, but the umpires just didn’t have it in their hearts to toss the beloved Coach Fitz.
“Our daughter, Wendy, asked him, ‘what was your favorite game?’” said Barbara Fitzpatrick.
“‘The one not played yet,’” was Coach Fitz’s reply to his daughter.
Photo credit - Matt Meduri
Coach Fitz throws out the first pitch (Credit - Matt Meduri)
Police Officer Stabbed in Amity Harbor; Bay Shore Man Arrested
By Hank Russell | Long Island Life and Politics
Suffolk County police arrested a Bay Shore man for allegedly stabbing a police officer in Amity Harbor.
First Precinct officers responded to Gibbs Road on May 6 at 12:26a.m. after a 911 caller reported two men attempting to steal items from vehicles. When officers arrived, they arrested Marcello Martinez at the corner of East Gibbs Road and Western Concourse while a second man fled.
A short time later, officers located Steven Vazquez hiding under a vehicle in front of 11 Gibbs Road. While attempting to flee from under the vehicle, Vazquez allegedly stabbed an officer in the upper right thigh and slashed him in the face.
A tourniquet was applied to the officer’s leg, and he was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated and released.
Vazquez, 22, was charged with second-degree assault, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, resisting arrest, menacing a police officer, and fourth-degree grand larceny. Martinez, 19, of North Babylon, was charged with possession of burglar’s tools and fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.
The two will be arraigned on May 7 at First District Court in Central Islip.
Editor’s Note: The Messenger spoke with Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association (PBA) President Lou Civello on the matter:
“Thankfully, our officer is going to be okay, but it was very close to him being stabbed in his femoral artery. He was stabbed in the groin; just a few inches the other way and we could have lost this officer,” Civello told The Messenger. “So, it just underscores how dangerous this job is. This is what our officers deal with when they’re out there protecting life and property here in Suffolk County. This was a quality-of-life crime.
“This individual was stealing out of vehicles. People here in Suffolk County have a right to be safe when they drive their car on the roadways. They have a right to be safe when they’re parking their car in their own driveway and to know that people aren’t going to go and steal from their own cars,” Civello continued. “In that, we need to focus on these quality-of-life crimes. It really brings back the problem of bail reform because this is one of these revolving door crimes where we continually let these people out.”
“There needs to be real repercussions for these crimes. Thankfully, again, we avoided tragedy, but just narrowly,” Civello concluded.
It is unknown if the defendant will be charged with a non-bail-eligible offense, although Civello says it’s likely he will be charged with attempted murder, a bail-eligible offense.
Hauppauge H.S. IB Film Student
Honored at Locust Valley Film Festival
Hauppauge High School IB Film student David Hendrick recently showcased his creative talents at the Locust Valley Film Festival, earning multiple top honors for his original short films.
David’s film, “Intermission,” took second place in the horror category, second place in editing and third-place overall in horror. Another one of his projects, produced with classmate Ethan Segal, “Will and Ned,” was awarded second place in the trailer category. Fellow students
Matthew Barshay and Avery Vivinetto also contributed to the production of the films, demonstrating the power of collaboration and creativity within Hauppauge High School’s IB Film program.
In addition to the category awards, David’s work was recognized with the prestigious Best in Show honor. As a result, his film has been selected to screen at the Long Island International Film Expo, an incredible achievement and testament to his artistic vision and technical skill.
Brentwood H.S. Student to Represent NYS at National Student Governors Conference
Brentwood High School student Olivia HarrisStevenson has been elected New York State Student Governor through the YMCA Youth and Government program, rising to the top of nearly 800 student participants and earning a spot to represent New York at the National Youth Governors Conference this June.
“When I heard my name called, it was just the best feeling ever,” Harris-Stevenson said. “I felt like I’d made it. It was such a rewarding experience, and I’m thrilled to represent my home state in Washington, D.C., this summer.”
The YMCA Youth and Government program offers students an immersive experience in state government. Participants draft, debate and vote on bills, enhancing their public speaking, critical thinking and collaboration skills. The program also includes a judicial component, in which students simulate appellate court proceedings,
and a press corps, which highlights the role of media in governance. The hands-on experience fosters leadership and a deeper understanding of democratic processes – up to and including its student elections.
Attendance at the National Youth Governors Conference, scheduled for June 8-12, is by invitation only based on each state’s student-gubernatorial election results. In Washington, D.C., Harris-Stevenson will attend leadership development workshops, network with other student governors-elect and meet with policymakers to discuss statewide initiatives.
“I am beyond proud of our remarkable students,” said Superintendent Wanda Ortiz-Rivera. “I have absolutely no doubt that Olivia will be running for president in the near future – with her fellow YMCA Youth and Government student advocates from Brentwood filling her entire cabinet.”
Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School Seventh Grader Introduces Wheelchair Basketball
In honor of Disabilities Awareness Month, Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School seventh grade Emma D’Antonio introduced the idea of integrating sports wheelchairs into the school’s physical education classes on March 20 and 21. As a dedicated player for the travel wheelchair basketball team, the New York Rolling Fury, Emma saw an opportunity to help her classmates gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for individuals who use wheelchairs.
Emma, who plays point guard for the team, wanted her classmates to experience the unique challenges and skills required to play sports from a wheelchair. With access to a handful of sports chairs, her fellow students first got used to moving and turning in the chairs before practicing shooting, dribbling and passing. Emma was there to share pointers and answer her classmates’ questions.
She hopes that by giving her classmates the chance to try wheelchair basketball, they’ll recognize the strength, determination, skills and perseverance it takes to navigate in a chair. “I want to normalize using and playing in a wheelchair,” Emma said. “Most kids don’t get the chance to experience what it feels like, and I want them to understand what it’s like to move and compete in one.”
Outside of school, Emma plays with the New York Rolling Fury weekly in Queens and helped her team secure a third-place win at nationals last year. She was also named MVP in her latest tournament. Looking ahead, Emma hopes to bring sports wheelchairs back to Oakdale-Bohemia Middle School next year to reach more students.
With a passion for the sport, Emma plans to continue playing throughout high school and dreams of competing for a division one college. Her ultimate goal is to represent Team USA as a Paralympian, and one day, coach others.
Around Town
Bay Shore Fire Department Celebrates 100 Years of Service
On Saturday, April 26, members of the Bay Shore community gathered at Captain Bill’s to celebrate a major milestone: the 100th anniversary of the Bay Shore Fire Department Engine Company #1.
Councilman Mike McElwee (R-West Islip) had the honor of attending the centennial celebration alongside Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip), where they presented an official citation recognizing the engine company’s century of dedicated service.
The Bay Shore Fire Department has stood as a pillar of safety and dedicated to the community, with Engine Company #1 at the forefront of countless emergency responses, volunteer efforts, and neighborhood support initiatives.
Councilman McElwee extends his sincere gratitude to all members-past and present- of the Bay Shore Fire Department for their unwavering service and dedication to the people of Bay Shore.
Councilman Mike McElwee (R-West Islip) has represented the Third Council District in the Town of Islip since 2024. The Third District contains West Islip, Baywood, Brightwaters, Ocean Beach, Saltaire, Robbins Rest, Atlantique, Lonelyville, Kismet, and parts of Bay Shore and Islip hamlet.
Councilman McElwee’s office is located on the First Floor of the West Wing of Town Hall at 655 Main Street in Islip. The office can be reached at 631-224-5559.
REMINDER: Second Half of Property Taxes Are Due on or Before May 31
The last day for payment of the 2024-2025 property taxes at this office will be Monday, June 2, 2025. After that date, taxes plus penalty and interest must be paid to the Suffolk County Comptroller’s office in Riverhead.
The Islip Tax Office is located at 40 Nassau Avenue Islip, NY 11751. Regular office hours are Monday-Friday 8:30a.m. – 4:30p.m. We will be open late on MONDAY, JUNE 2, 2025, from 8:30a.m. – 7:00p.m. for in-person payments. Our office will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025, in observance of Memorial Day.
Tax Receiver Andy Wittman (R-Sayville) reminds all taxpayers of our Online Payment Portal, Tax.IslipNY.gov as a secure and convenient way of paying property taxes in the Town of Islip. This portal is available to PROPERTY OWNERS only. Please consider using this option in lieu of mailing in your payment.
Community Science Educational Series Returns with a Focus on Invasive Species
The annual educational series, Community Science Long Island, returns this month for its fifth year. The series, which began in 2021, highlights participatory science programs that communities can take part in and helps illustrate how their engagement helps advance local research and environmental conservation.
This year, the series will highlight issues related to invasive species found across Long Island, providing guidance on how to identify them and best practices to reduce future spread. The series will run from May through August and feature both monthly webinars and in-person events, including nature walks and invasive species removal activities.
Community Science Long Island kicks off on May 15 at 7:00p.m. with a program on the invasive aquatic grass, phragmites (Phragmites australis), (picture right) which is also known as common reed. The presentation will be followed by a phrag pull at 9:00a.m. on Saturday, May 17 at West Brook in Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park in Great River. The series will wrap up in August with an island-wide coastal bioblitz, an event which invites people to head outside to snap pictures of every living thing they can find.
Association, Peconic Estuary Partnership, South Shore Estuary Reserve, New York Sea Grant, the Long Island Sound Study, and the Long Island Invasive Species Management Area.
People interested in joining any of the events and finding out more can visit https://seatuck.org/community-science-webinars/
Sophia Valsamos Foundation Supports Youth Emotional Health with Expansion of Wellness Kit Program
As part of its ongoing mission to promote emotional health awareness and wellness among young people across Long Island schools, the Sophia Valsamos Foundation (TSVF) is excited to announce a donation of curated wellness kits to the Northport-East Northport School District, for use in both middle schools, Northport High School, the district’s suspension programs and the alternative high school.
Created with compassion and purpose, each Wellness Kit includes a thoughtful assortment of sensory tools, self-care items, and inspirational materials, all aimed at providing comfort, promoting mindfulness, fostering resilience and bringing emotional health awareness to students
“In honor of my daughter Sophia, we’re excited to bring this program into schools, where so many young people face daily pressures and emotional challenges,” said Chris Valsamos, TSVF Board Director. “Our goal is to create safe, supportive spaces where students feel empowered to talk about emotional health and practice self-care without stigma. We’re thrilled to provide our kits to the Northport-East Northport School District to support these students on their journey.”
Anthony Ferrandino, a School Social Worker in the Northport-East Northport School District, welcomed the donation as a timely and meaningful addition to their ongoing efforts to support social-emotional learning.
“We are thankful to The Sophia Valsamos Foundation for their generous donation of wellness kits to our school community,” said Ferrandino. “These resources will provide our students with meaningful tools to manage stress, build emotional resilience, and feel supported during challenging times. Mental Health is a critical component of student success, and having access to these kits reinforces the message that it’s okay to ask for help and prioritize emotional well-being.”
TSVF is actively expanding its Wellness Kit initiative with the goal of reaching as many school districts as possible across the region. These kits are designed to help students manage anxiety and stress, navigate emotional challenges, and develop healthy coping strategies to support long-term wellness. TSVF invites educators, teachers, school administrators, counselors, psychologists, and social workers to request free wellness kits for distribution within their schools. By working together, we can foster supportive learning environments where students feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Support the Mission
TSVF invites the community to join in its efforts in supporting the mission and helping to make more wellness kits available to those in need. You can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Donations directly fund the expansion and distribution of wellness kits, ensuring that more young people receive the tools they deserve and need to heal and thrive. To contribute or volunteer, visit www.TSVF.org or email contact@tsvf.org.
About The Sophia Valsamos Foundation
Founded in 2018 in loving memory of Sophia Valsamos, a vibrant, artistic, intelligent, and kind-hearted 13-year-old who lost her life to suicide, The Sophia Valsamos Foundation is dedicated to empowering youth, building self-confidence, and promoting kindness. The foundation provides outreach programs, educational workshops, and resources for children, teens and families. Through advocacy, action, and the donation of wellness kits, TSVF works to break the stigma surrounding emotional health and create a culture of empathy, awareness and connection.
Community Science Long Island is being hosted by Seatuck Environmental
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
AMAC
Thursday, May 8, 2025
‘INSANE ORWELLIAN WORLD’: Ted Cruz Speaks Out As Accused Tesla Vandal Released to Receive ‘Gender-Affirming Care’
By Tyler O’Neil | Outside Contributor for AMAC
A court released from jail a suspect who allegedly set fire to Tesla vehicles in Kansas City, Missouri, in order to allow the suspect to continue receiving “gender-affirming care.”
Authorities arrested the 19-year-old suspect, identified as Owen McIntire, last month in Boston, after McIntire allegedly set fire to Tesla cybertrucks in March using “Molotov cocktails.” McIntire is a student at the University of Massachusetts in Boston and was visiting family in Kansas City at the time of the incident.
Federal prosecutors charged McIntire with malicious destruction of property and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm.
Judge Jessica Hedges issued an order setting release conditions, and prosecutors have asked the court to revoke that order.
According to Fox 4 Kansas City, which reviewed the defense’s documents, McIntire’s attorney argued the suspect should be released because McIntire is suffering “serious and ongoing” medical needs and treatments that could not or would not be provided while in federal detention.
“The defense filing says McIntire is undergoing treatment for depression and is receiving gender affirming care that began in March of this year—and that care would likely be interrupted or terminated in federal custody,” the outlet reported. McIntire’s attorney also cited his client’s lack of a criminal history and ties to the Kansas City area as reasons McIntire would not be a flight risk.
Prosecutors argued, however, that there is a “rebuttable presumption of detention” in the case because McIntire stands accused of violent offenses with a maximum prison term exceeding 10 years.
“The nature and circumstances of the charged offenses support detention in this case,” prosecutors wrote. “The offense involved the use of multiple destructive devices to firebomb Tesla vehicles at a Tesla dealership. Setting these vehicles on fire creates an extremely hazardous situation for anyone nearby and responding public safety officers and firemen.”
Prosecutors also wrote that “the weight of the evidence that the defendant made and used two destructive devices to commit arson is overwhelming.” They cited evidence that McIntire’s phone was located at the scene of the crimes and that the suspect was driving a car that fit eyewitness descriptions.
Laine Cardarella, the public defender assigned to McIntire’s case, did not respond to The Daily Signal’s request for comment by publication time.
Gender Confusion
While court filings and news reports unanimously refer to McIntire using male pronouns, the involvement of “gender-affirming care” introduces confusion into the reporting.
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, noted on a podcast Monday that McIntire could be male or female.
“I think this is a person who was born female, who has decided that she is a ‘he’ and wants to be a man,” Cruz said. “The reason I think that is we’ve googled it, and every damn story uses ‘he,’ ‘he,’ ‘he,’ ‘he,’ ‘he,’ and given the insane Orwellian world we live in, I think if ABC is referring to this person as a he and this person is transgender, that to me means the person was born a she.”
Ben Ferguson, Cruz’s co-host, responded, “This is a dude that grew out his hair and looks like a chick.”
The Daily Signal reached out to the Justice Department and to the University of Massachusetts in Boston, and neither shed light on McIntire’s biology.
“I can confirm that Owen McIntire has been enrolled at UMass Boston beginning fall semester 2024,” DeWayne Lehman, the school’s director of communications, told The Daily Signal in a statement Monday. “In keeping with [the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act], we cannot release protected information about any student.”
Three possible scenarios could explain the confusion: McIntire could be male and he could have belatedly claimed the need for “gender-affirming care” in a non-convincing manner, such that court records and news outlets still refer to him as male;
McIntire could be female and may have changed official records to present herself as male; or the “gender-affirming care” could be of the sort that does not directly relate to a “transgender” identity, such as hormone treatment to resolve a disorder.
The Trend of Tesla Violence
After President Donald Trump launched the Department of Government Efficiency to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government and presented Tesla CEO Elon Musk as the face of the effort, protesters have targeted Tesla to oppose DOGE. The Left’s dark money network has funded organizations helping the protests, and activists even published a map ostensibly plotting every Tesla dealership across the U.S. to enable vandals to target them.
Overview - AMAC -
The Association of Mature American Citizens
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.
AMAC plays a vital role in helping build the services that will enrich the lives of America’s seniors. AMAC Action, a 501 (C)(4) advocates for issues important to AMAC’s membership on Capitol Hill and locally through grassroots activism. To Learn more, visit amac.us
As The Daily Caller’s Audrey Streb reported in March, many of the vandals who targeted Teslas appear to identify as transgender or “nonbinary.”
McIntire’s name did not appear on Streb’s list.
She did, however, include 42-year-old Justin Thomas Nelson (who goes by Lucy Grace Nelson and who was charged with “malicious destruction of property” in Colorado); 27-year-old Erin L. White (who uses she/they pronouns and who was charged with criminal damage to property and trespass for allegedly vandalizing a Tesla center in Illinois); and 41-year-old Adam Matthew Lansky (who went by the alias Allison Tesla and who was accused of possessing Molotov cocktails while attempting to destroy Tesla property at a Salem, Oregon, car dealership).
WHERE BROADWAY MEETS MAIN STREET
22 Legal Insights
Thursday, May 8, 2025
Dispelling Common Myths About Asset Transfer After Death
By Sara M. Meyer, Esq.
As an estate attorney, I’ve encountered numerous misconceptions about what happens to assets when someone passes away. These misunderstandings often lead to a lack of estate planning, delays in asset distribution, family conflicts, extra costs, and financial complications.
Let me dispel some common myths about probate, beneficiary designations, and trust administration.
Myth #1: “My will determines who gets all my assets when I die.”
Your will only controls assets that you own individually that do not have a beneficiary designation. Assets that you own jointly with rights of survivorship with someone else, assets that have a beneficiary designation (sometimes referred to as Payable On Death or Transfer On Death designations), or assets held in a trust will pass outside of your will. These designations/ownerships trump whatever your will says about your estate distribution.
Myth #2: “My will keeps my family out of probate court.”
I often see surprised faces when I explain that a will does not avoid a probate proceeding – it actually guides the probate process. Think of your will as instructions for Surrogate’s Court on how to distribute your assets now that you have passed away. Without a will, New York State law decides who inherits your individually owned assets, which may not match your wishes.
Myth #3: “I don’t need a will because I am married.”
In New York State, being married does not automatically mean your spouse will inherit all your assets if you die without a will. Without a will, New York’s intestacy laws determine who inherits your individual property. If you die with a spouse and children, your spouse receives $50,000 plus half of the remaining estate, while your children share the other half (even if the children are minors!).
Myth #4: “If I create a trust, my heirs automatically receive my assets.”
Simply creating a trust does not avoid a probate proceeding or transfer your assets automatically. Your trust must be “funded” for it to be effective — meaning assets must be retitled in the name of the trust during your lifetime. I’ve seen many beautifully crafted trusts that failed because the person never completed the crucial last step of changing ownership of the assets to the trust.
Myth #5: “Trust administration is just as complicated as probate.”
Trust administration typically occurs without court supervision, allowing for privacy and efficiency that probate does not allow. While trustees must still follow legal obligations to beneficiaries, the process generally moves more quickly than probate and with fewer expenses. For Long Islanders with properties in multiple states, trusts also avoid the need for multiple probate proceedings.
What Long Islanders Should Know
Understanding how your assets will transfer after death empowers you to create an effective estate plan. Each transfer method—probate, beneficiary designations, and trusts—has advantages and limitations. The key is to discuss your goals with an estate planning attorney to craft a plan for your specific circumstances and family needs.
By addressing these matters proactively, you spare your loved ones’ confusion during an already difficult time and ensure your wishes are honored efficiently.
Sara M. Meyer, Esq. primarily practices in the areas of Elder Law, Estate Planning and Medicaid planning at Futterman Lanza, LLP. Sara Meyer assists families in preparing for any eventuality using asset protection, will preparation, revocable and irrevocable trusts, Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies and Living Wills. This compassionate and attentive attorney generates a sense of calm and understanding in her relationships with clients and their families.
Futterman Lanza, LLP is an elder law and estate planning law firm with staffed offices in Smithtown, Bay Shore, Melville and Garden City, New York. Sara Meyer primarily works in the Smithtown office, where we have celebrated our twenty-first anniversary serving the local community. The firm’s holistic approach anticipates and provides solutions in the ever-changing landscape. You can learn more about Sara Meyer and the firm by visiting www.trustedattorneys.com.
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Beyond the Binary: The Global AI Race Evolves
By Mollie Barnett
As the competition intensifies, new players emerge with distinctive strategies.
“China is not behind” in artificial intelligence, and this is a “long-term, infinite race,” Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang declared last week during a tech conference in Washington, D.C. His remarks underscored a growing recognition that the global AI landscape is more complex and competitive than many Western observers have assumed.
While headlines often frame the competition as a two-horse race between the United States and China, a more nuanced picture has emerged in 2025, with countries like Germany and the United Arab Emirates establishing distinctive approaches that challenge this simplified narrative.
The Gap Narrows Between U.S. and China
Recent data from the Stanford AI Index shows the U.S.-China AI competition tightening significantly. While the United States still leads in the number of notable models released, Chinese models are rapidly closing the quality gap. By February 2025, the performance difference between top American and Chinese models on certain benchmarks had narrowed to just 1.70%, down dramatically from 9.26% in January 2024.
The talent landscape shows equally significant shifts. China is now producing nearly half of the world’s top AI researchers, with figures ranging from 47% to 50% according to recent reports. This represents a dramatic redistribution of global AI expertise.
China’s approach to AI education is fundamentally different, integrating AI training from elementary school, creating a comprehensive pipeline that the U.S. approach doesn’t match. By contrast, America’s approach to workforce upskilling remains fragmented, particularly for mid-career professionals.
While the U.S. maintains advantages in private investment — $47 billion compared to China’s $13 billion in 2022 — and elite model development, structural challenges in education and data access present significant vulnerabilities.
Germany’s Industrial AI Strategy
While the superpower competition dominates headlines, Germany has carved out a distinctive position focused on industrial applications and ethical frameworks. The German government has committed €5 billion to AI initiatives through 2025, with a strong focus on manufacturing integration.
The country ranks third worldwide in robot density in manufacturing, with approximately 17% of German manufacturing companies already using AI and another 40% in planning stages. This industrial focus represents a different path than either the U.S. consumer-focused approach or China’s comprehensive strategy.
The German Federal Government advocates an “ethics by design” approach throughout all development stages of AI-based applications, according to the European Commission’s Germany AI Strategy Report. This aligns with broader European guidelines while taking into account recommendations from the national Data Ethics Commission.
Germany is building “AI made in Germany” — a trademark for secure, responsible AI applications aligned with European values. The country’s approach focuses on what they do best: precision engineering and industrial applications, while maintaining strong ethical standards.
UAE’s Financial Gambit
Perhaps the most surprising development in the global AI landscape is the United Arab Emirates’ aggressive positioning through massive financial investments and strategic partnerships.
In March 2024, Abu Dhabi established MGX, an AI investment vehicle expected to reach $100 billion in assets. This fund has already formed partnerships with global technology leaders including Microsoft, BlackRock, and Global Infrastructure Partners.
UAE government strategists have set remarkably ambitious targets, aiming to make AI contribute 20% of its non-oil GDP by 2031, according to analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Most recently, Abu Dhabi announced plans to become the world’s first fully AI-powered government by 2027, supported by a $13 billion investment in digital transformation.
In a major development this March, the UAE committed to a 10-year, $1.4 trillion investment framework in the United States, with significant focus on AI infrastructure, semiconductors, and energy. The announcement followed a meeting between UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Donald Trump, along with top U.S. officials and industry leaders.
The UAE’s approach demonstrates how smaller nations can participate meaningfully in the AI revolution without the scale of the U.S. or China. By strategically deploying capital and creating favorable regulatory environments, the country is establishing a unique role in the global AI ecosystem.
Regulatory Competition
The regulatory landscape for AI development varies significantly across these four key players, potentially creating advantages and obstacles for each.
U.S. privacy laws, including California’s Consumer Privacy Act, aim to protect citizens but may inadvertently limit access to training data. China’s less restrictive approach to data utilization prioritizes national security while enabling broader access for AI development.
Germany’s approach focuses on standardized frameworks at both national and European levels, while the UAE has developed comprehensive regulations through its Federal Decree-Law on Personal Data Protection and National AI Ethics Guidelines, balancing innovation with security considerations.
Beyond Technology: A Synergistic Approach
Industry experts increasingly emphasize that success in the AI race depends not merely on technological superiority, but on how effectively countries integrate AI into their broader economic and social systems.
“We’re seeing a more multipolar competition with specialized advantages,” explains one industry analyst. “Each nation’s approach reflects existing strengths and strategic priorities, suggesting there won’t be a single ‘winner’ but rather different models of success.”
According to tracking data from Epoch AI, approximately 81 large-scale AI models have been developed across 18 countries, ranging from early systems like AlphaGo to more recent models like Gemini. This proliferation suggests AI development is becoming increasingly distributed globally.
For policymakers, business leaders, and educators, the challenge ahead lies in developing strategies that address both technological advancements and fundamental societal needs—ensuring that AI truly improves human capabilities rather than simply advancing for its own sake.
As Huang noted when speaking with CNBC, “No country wants to outsource and let somebody else advance their intelligence.” The nations that succeed will likely be those that develop synergistic approaches, addressing societal issues alongside technical development.
