Smithtown Messenger Archive June 13, 2024

F R I DAY, J U N E 1 4T H , 2 0 24

FLAG DAY Thursday, June 13, 2024 ~ Volume 136 ~ Issue Number 30 ~ $1.00 Credit: SCPD

Heuermann Charged with Two More Murders Suggests Decades-Long Killing Spree

By Matt Meduri Rex Heuermann, a Manhattan architect, and as of July 2023, the alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer, has been charged with two additional murders in the ongoing investigation.

Heuermann was initially charged in the murders of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello, the first three of the “Gilgo Four” victims.

The murder of the fourth victim, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, was attributed to Heuermann in January.

Last week, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney (R) revealed that not only has Heuermann been charged in the murders of Jessica Taylor and Sandra Costilla, but that Heuermann compiled his findings in a manifesto that likely helped him evade detection for decades.

Continued on page 3

State Holds First Public Meeting for Kings Park DRI Grant

By Matt Meduri

Residents gather for the first meeting on the Kings Park DRI Grant (Credit - Matt Meduri)

In January, Governor Kathy Hochul (D) visited Kings Park to deliver a prestigious $10 million grant for Kings Park’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). Long a priority of the Town Board, downtowns across the Town of Smithtown have received a series of upgrades and facelifts, including, but not limited to, sewer projects, streetscaping, beautification, and main street enhancements. St. James, Smithtown hamlet, and Kings Park have gotten the most attention, but Kings Park’s historic, quaint personality is set to receive additional improvements from the State grant.

A competitive grant process, Kings Park was just one of several localities within the entire State that received such funds in the latest round of grants.

Now, the process turns over to a series of public meetings, wherein the Kings Park community can voice their concerns, desires, and ideas as to how the grant money should be spent within the hamlet.

The first meeting was held last Thursday evening at the R.J.O Intermediate School on Old Dock Road.

Continued on page 10

FULL STORIES ON:

The Romaine Report Page 4

D-Day Vets Honored at LISVH Page 8

Loud Majority Holds First Summer Parade Page 16

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News Thursday, June 13, 2024

Continued from front cover

Heuermann Charged with Two More Murders Suggests Decades-Long Killing Spree

Heuermann’s growing implication in the serial killings suggest that his involvement in the crimes against sex workers spans decades, as Costilla’s remains were the first to be found in 1993 in North Sea, Southampton.

Costilla was not previously connected to Heuermann.

Her remains were tied to a suspect John Bittrolff, a Manorville carpenter who in 2017 was found guilty in the murders of suspected sex workers Rita Tangredi, of East Patchogue, and Colleen McNamee, of Shirley.

The adult daughter of Tangredi was reportedly close with Melissa Barthelemy, whose murder would later be attributed to Heuermann. Barthelemy’s mother said that Melissa’s phone had “a lot of calls” to Manorville around the time of her disappearance.

What set Heuermann and Bittrolff apart in the case of Sandra Costilla was the discovery of de facto blueprints in Heuermann’s Massapequa Park home.

Heuermann is also being charged in the murder of Jessica Taylor, part of whose remains were found in Manorville in 2003. The rest of her remains were found in Gilgo Beach in 2011.

D.A. Tierney stressed at a Thursday press conference in Riverhead that the indictments have been filed and that Heuermann must be proven guilty. Tierney thanked local law enforcement for their assistance, as well as the FBI and U.S. Secret Service.

Tierney also discussed newly-found digital evidence that the prosecution will use to make their case against Heuermann.

“We’ve recovered fifteen different types of cameras, twenty-seven computers, fifty-eight internal hard drives, twenty-two external hard drives, forty-six cell phones, nine Wi-Fi routers, forty-four SD Micro cards, seventeen tablets, fortytown USB devices, eight laptops, fifty hotel cards, four GPS devices, eleven music devices, thirty-six SIM cards, thirty-three miscellaneous items, and 647 CDs, floppy discs, VHS tapes, and miscellaneous tapes,” said Tierney. He added that the Secret Service is helping analyze the “massive amounts of data.”

“Heuermann had a significant collection of violent, bondage, and torture porn dating back to 1994,” said Tierney. “That material was very similar to the condition that two latest victims were left in. The images accessed by Heuermann are consistent with the crime scenes of both Taylor and Costilla.”

Tierney revealed that in addition to the plethora of technology and data found in his home, Heuermann had documented a manifesto that Tierney says aligns “identically” with some of the murders.

“We recovered a Microsoft Word document entitled HK2002-2004 on a laptop in unallocated space, meaning there was an attempt to erase that document,” said Tierney.

“Even when a document is erased on a device, forensic experts using particular software can retrieve it.”

Tierney says the document was a “locally-created draft,” one that was created on the laptop, not downloaded from the Internet. The document was found to have been created in 2000 and modified and overwritten numerous times between 2001 and 2002.

“As alleged in the bail application, the task force believes that this is a planning document utilized by Heuermann to methodically blueprint and plan out his kills with excruciating detail,” said Tierney. “This document establishes intent specifically to locate these victims, hunt them down, bring them under his control, and kill them.”

Tierney added that Heuermann’s “motivation, meticulous planning, and clear intent is obvious.”

“His intent was nothing short of murdering these victims,” said Tierney. “We allege the methodology in that document is, in some cases, identical to the methodology used to murder the six victims in this case.”

With the indictment against Heuermann in the earliest-found remains in the longinvestigated Gilgo Beach murders, the timeline has now been blown wide open, implicating the defendant in a much longer list of murders than previously thought by law enforcement.

Tierney also said that Heuermann’s manifesto contains “specific page number” references to John Douglas’ 1995 book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit. The prosecution believes that Heuermann studied the book “not to gain insight into his own behavior, but to improve his methodology and avoid capture by the authorities.”

Tienery says that while a copy of Mindhunter was not found in Heuermann’s home, another book by Douglas was found. Douglas is a retired special agent and unit chief with the FBI. A pioneer in criminal profiling, Douglas has written numerous books on criminal psychology.

The document also shows dump site metrics that align with the location of Jessica Taylor’s remains in Manorville.

When asked about the other murders that span the GIlgo timeline, Tierney reiterated that he and his department are committed to investigating the remaining murders, something he made clear when the charges were brought in the cases of the “Gilgo Four.” Tierney said then that the investigation is not concluding with those victims.

“We’re going to continue to investigate. We’ll talk about whatever other investigation is undergoing when and if we bring those charges,” said Tierney.

Another report shows early images of Heuermann at a rifle club in Manorville just days before the disappearance of his alleged victim Jessica Taylor. Prosecutors have obtained a day planner from July 20, 2003, that shows Heuermann was scheduled to attend a rifle training event at the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club that morning.

“Mr. Heuermann was not and is not a member of the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club,” club spokesperson Kerry Goldberg said. “Mr. Heuermann did participate in a few high-powered rifle events at the club, which were open to the public.”

The club sits on a portion of River Road and Connecticut Avenue. Connecticut Avenue becomes Halsey Manor Road just south of the club where Taylor’s remains were found.

A club member said that he and other members recognized Heuermann as a rifle competition attendee when photos of him were published after his arrest.

Legal experts now assume that Heuermann’s alleged crime spree is not just confined to Long Island, as he owns property in South Carolina and is known to have spent time in Nevada. Similar cold cases, especially among sex workers, are now on the radar in Nevada, South Carolina, Virginia, and New Jersey.

Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

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County News

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Thursday, June 13, 2024

THE ROMAINE REPORT:

Suffolk County Parks…

Only a Drive Away from Paradise…

Success Story Wyandanch OSHA

By Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine I know you have many options for getaways, but be mindful of the affordable, world-class hidden gems right outside your door.

Suffolk County is home to 63,000 acres of parkland and over 200 historic structures.

Often people move to Suffolk County for its proximity to New York City. They stay in Suffolk County, though, after experiencing all we have to offer.

We are continuously improving our parks through land acquisitions and upgrades. At Southaven County Park, we are rebuilding the dam with a new fish ladder that will greatly improve the ecology. At Indian Island County Park, we are building a culvert to replace an aging system, transforming Terrys Creek from a mosquito-infested stagnant water situation into an active tidal inlet.

We are making our playgrounds more inclusive for those with physical and mental impairments by installing communication boards and consciously designing for those visually impaired.

The County has such amenities as: • Beaches: Cedar Point, Cupsogue Beach, Indian Island, Lake Ronkonkoma,

Meschutt, Montauk, Shinnecock East, and Smith Point.

• Camping: Blydenburgh, Cathedral Pines, Cedar Point, Cupsogue, Indian Island,

Montauk, Sears Bellows, Shinnecock East, Smith Point, Southaven, and West Hills.

• Fishing: Saltwater – Blowfish, Bluefish, Fluke, Hickory Shad, Little Skate,

Menhaden, Porgies, Sea Robin, Snappers, Striped Bass and more. Freshwater – Black Crappie, Bluegill Brook Trout, Brown Bullhead Yellow Perch, Brown Trout, Carp, Chain Pickerel, Common Carp, Large Mouth Bass, Pumpkin Seed,

Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass and White Perch.

• Golf: Bergen Point, Indian Island, Timber Point, and West Sayville.

Now is the best time to take advantage of Suffolk County’s parks and purchase your Green Key Card. A Green Key Card is good for three years and quickly pays for itself. Green Key Card holders receive discounted rates at parks, beaches, golf courses, and reservations. You do not need to be a resident of Suffolk County to purchase a Green Key Card.

This summer, consider spending some time at a county park.

Visit https://suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks for more information.

Blydenburgh

Indian Island

In a collaborative effort with the Wyandanch Resource Community Center, the Electrical Training Center, and the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance, the Suffolk County Department of Labor (SCDOL) is proud to announce the successful graduation of nineteen individuals from the OSHA 30 certification class. Hosted by the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance, this specialized class, specific to the construction industry, provided essential safety training.

The graduation ceremony, a testament to the commitment and hard work of the participants, marks a significant achievement in enhancing the employability and safety awareness of the graduates. The partnership between SCDOL and the community organizations exemplifies the power of collaboration

in addressing the needs of the local workforce.

This achievement not only highlights the dedication of the individuals involved but also underscores the positive impact that community partnerships can have on providing valuable resources to our residents.

The OSHA 30 certification class in December 2023 equipped participants with essential safety knowledge vital for the construction industry. The graduation represents a collective effort to empower individuals with the skills and certifications necessary for a successful career in construction.

Bravo to all the graduates for their hard work and commitment to advancing their careers and prioritizing safety on construction sites.

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5

County News Thursday, June 13, 2024

Thorne’s Lithium Battery Bill Passes Legislature Suffolk Fire Academy Holds Battery Fire Demonstration As technology continues to increase in scope and ubiquitousness, possible dangers and new forms of emergency response come with it. Lithium ion batteries are no exception.

Despite having been extant for decades, the batteries are taking on new roles in forms of technology that are used by vast majorities of the population. Cell phones, laptops, and personal electronic devices are in higher use than ever. And with the ongoing pushes for renewable energy, generators, modes of transportation, and other appliances are utilizing the batteries for their longer lifespans, quick charging times, and unparalleled efficiency under large or consistent amounts of utilization.

However, in response to the growing number of house fires, injuries, and chances of combustion with inadequate usage, the Suffolk County Legislature has taken steps to not only ensure safety of Suffolk residents who purchase devices with lithium batteries, but also start awareness campaigns to help educate the public on proper usage of the batteries.

Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne’s (R-Patchogue) bill, I.R. 1230-2024, passed the Legislature unanimously. The bill would increase scrutiny on commercial vendors of the batteries to ensure all that are sold in Suffolk by retailers are legitimate by requiring certification by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) for compliance with Underwriters Laboratories standard 2849. The standard applies electrical and safety metrics for electric bicycles.

To mark the bill’s passage, Legislator Thorne, Chair of the Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness Committee, was joined by Legislator Leslie Kennedy (R-Nesconset), Chair of the Health Committee, along with dozens of representatives for Suffolk County’s fire districts for a press conference at the Suffolk County Fire Academy in Yaphank last Friday afternoon. In addition to the press conference, a demonstration was also held showcasing the quick and simple combustion of a multi-cell lithium ion battery when overcharged.

“In New York City alone, there have been hundreds of fires, 150 injuries, and eighteen deaths last year. We in Suffolk County will close the door before we lose even one life here,” said Thorne. “About a year ago, the Suffolk County Fire Rescue Commission, made up of New York State-certified fire educators, chiefs, and other fire organizations, created a Lithium-Ion Task Force to address approaches in firefighting and public education.

After working with the task force, the Suffolk County Fire Marshals Association, as well as other fire agencies, formulated a plan of attack of education, regulation, and removal of these untested, unregulated, dangerous batteries which are commonly found in mobility devices.”

The Lithium-Ion Task Force is currently educating firefighters on the dangers of the batteries, as well as educating the public on how to determine the best-quality products and how to use them. To date, the Suffolk County Fire Academy has trained over 1,600 firefights on the dangers and response to lithium-ion battery fires.

“This bill is essential. This bill will save hundreds, if not thousands of lives. We are blessed to have this,” said Legislator Kennedy.

Thorne said that there is a “plethora of unregulated, untested batteries flowing in[to Suffolk County], especially from online stores,” mostly from overseas.

“None of these batteries that are untested by a nationally-certified testing laboratory are safe in your homes,” said Thorne (pictured top).

Thorne cautioned the public against buying batteries online, especially from the cheapest option.

“A person might find a battery for five dollars online and think it’s a deal, but that battery can cost you someone or something that means so dear to you, including your house, family, children, and neighbors,” said Thorne.

Thorne said that Suffolk County is “fortunately” ahead of the game in stopping these types of fires before they can occur.

“We’re stopping it before we lose even one life in our county,” Thorne added.

Randy D’Arcy, Regional Technical Leader for Envista Forensics, demonstrated the consequences of overcharging of a multi-cell lithium-ion battery (pictured above).

The lithium polymer battery was selected for its standard usage and typical displays of combustion.

D’Arcy said that lithium battery fires are “self-limiting,” in that the fire depends on its surroundings to spread. He mentioned charging a cell phone under a pillow, as the pillow

Credit - Matt Meduri

By Matt Meduri

is combustible and can further spread the fire. The same logic applies to appliances that might be charged under curtains or around similarly flammable materials.

After just a few minutes of being connected to a power source and intentionally overcharged, slight hissing could be heard and smoking could be seen before the cells of the battery began audibly exploding one by one. The fire was contained since there were not flammable materials nearby, but the flames produced could have easily spread quickly under typical home-use circumstances.

“The number-one reason these batteries fail is mechanical damage, usually if you drop it, puncture it, or if it is hit with something,” D’Arcy told The Messenger. “Once a thermal runaway starts, it won’t stop. It will just transfer from one cell to the next.

Another reason is overcharging. We simulated a home user losing a charging cord and buying the cheapest one at a regular retail store.”

Stores like 7-11 sell a variety of chargers, but a non-manufacturer charger with a manufacturer-grade product can easily lead to a fire.

“Except for fire pits, barbecues, and fireplaces, the best fire is the one that doesn’t happen,” Don Lynch, Chief Suffolk County Fire Marshall, told The Messenger. Lynch says that investigating the fires can be difficult, as lithium battery fires happen so quickly, that the proof of a lithium fire is usually gone once marshalls begin investigating.

“In 2022, I had two fires that the Town Marshalls reported. In 2023, I had seven or eight. This year, I’m up to thirteen, and we’re not even halfway through the year,” said Lynch of reported lithium battery fires.”

Lynch cautioned against buying chargers or batteries from third-party online retailers, as these are often incompatible with certain products, come from overseas distributors, and cannot be tested in Suffolk County.

Thorne’s bill would only apply to lithium batteries physically sold by retailers within the county. The bill’s restrictions are largely unenforceable on products mailed directly to a consumer’s door. Therefore, the Legislature and the Suffolk County Fire Academy warn consumers of the potential dangers of buying cheaper, third-party batteries and/ or chargers online.

Chief Lynch also described a recent fire in Smithtown, wherein the homeowner heard popping and hissing from the garage. Although marshalls were unable to definitively pinpoint a lithium-related fire, Chief Lynch that the telltale signs were all there. The house was destroyed in the fire.

Chief Lynch also says that some fires are so small and easily contained, such as those caused by laptop or cellphone malfunctions, that users do not report the fires. Because of this Lynch, estimates that lithium-related fires are much higher than reported.

“Even if a resident doesn’t want a response from the fire department, we would encourage them reporting the fire anyway,” said Lynch. “It’s good for reporting purposes and it’s good to track the problem throughout the county. You can’t say you have a problem with something and not have any statistics to back it up.”

Lynch also says that lithium batteries cannot be discarded like other batteries can be; they must be recycled. Residents can go to call2recycle.org, enter their ZIP code, and the site will list drop-off locations where the batteries can be recycled.

Nick Kefalos, Chief Fire Marshall of Smithtown, and Assistant Chief Daniel Keegan, described a recent St. James fire that was fortunately able to be contained, but was caused by the exact oversights on display at the Fire Academy.

(Above) The litium battery combusts.

Keegan said that the fire was caused (Inset) A before and after look at a by a battery-powered skateboard that was lithium battery. (Credit - Matt Meduri) charging overnight under a window. The owner purchased a new cable for the twoyear-old skateboard from a major online retailer.

“It overcharged the battery by twice what it was rated for,” Keegan told The Messenger. “He had just bought the charger, it got delivered that night, he plugged it in at 5:00p.m., and by midnight, there was a fire.”

Luckily, the smoke detectors worked and one of the residents pulled a garden hose through the house from the backyard to extinguish the fire. There were also no combustibles around the skateboard. But Keegan, Kefalos, and Lynch all stressed the urgency of public awareness of these batteries, as the overcharged skateboard could have resulted in a serious house fire, injuries, or death.

Thorne’s bill will now be open to a second public hearing before a potential signature from County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches).

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Editorial Thursday, June 13, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Don’t Suffer Alone. It’s Not Worth It.

In today’s world, we’re taught one of two things: prioritize your emotions and feelings, consequences be damned; or, bottle up your problems and get back to work.

There are both logic and drawbacks to both schools of thought; however, proper applications are entirely subjective.

The bottom line is: your mental health is perhaps the most important tenet of your health you can maintain. Failing to prioritize your mental health is akin to ensuring a tree grows shallow roots, just to be split in the first storm that blows through town.

We here at The Messenger appreciate a good “awareness” day or month just as much as the next guy, but we feel that overt fanfare for a predetermined period of time can sometimes lead to fatigue in the period of recognition, and complete absence in the mind of the world for the other eleven months. Something as important as good mental health should be a regular advertisement. This isn’t to say awareness campaigns are inherently bad or counterproductive, but as June is Men’s Mental Health Month, we feel it’s imperative to call balls and strikes in terms of year-round significance.

Men stereotypically subscribe to the latter school of thought: bottling up emotions and problems, often to a fault. It’s almost the “manly” creed to retain expression and work hard for forty-to-fifty years and die of a heart attack. Not only is it not honorable, it’s not necessary.

Mental health concerns do not discriminate based on gender, and neither does The Messenger. We open these words of advice to anyone who believes they need more help than meets the eye.

The first step in solving a problem is recognizing the existence of one. Unfortunately, many people find that admitting a problem of poor mental health, mental illnesses, substance abuse, etc. are signs of weakness and capitulation in the larger breadth of life.

We couldn’t disagree more vehemently, as recognizing a problem is often one of the most difficult parts.

There are plenty of online portals for finding licensed mental health counselors, tailored specifically to your particular areas of struggle. ZocDoc, Better Help, and Psychology Today are just a few websites you could use to find a therapist right for you. Talk therapy can easily

work wonders, as simply expressing emotions can alleviate them, and voicing irrational thoughts or paranoia can make them seem as ridiculous as they might be.

However, some people need a more potent cocktail than just talk therapy, and there’s no shame in admitting that either. Some drugs known to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and a host of other mental health problems, such as Xanax, can have unintended and even addictive consequences on patients. Xanax is also being studied as a possible cause of early onset dementia.

Some professionals recommend one of several selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications essentially fill in the blanks in your brain to get it back in shape.

Zoloft, Prozac, and Lexapro are a couple of the mainstay SSRIs. Not each drug will affect the same person - or people - differently, so it’s important to consult with a medication manager to find the best drug and dosage for you.

Furthermore, admitting the need of help is no surrender; far from it. Voicing a need for help is perhaps the best victory you could give yourself. A surrender now means dozens of surrenders later down the line.

Finally, suffering is inevitable, but better to suffer in the company of good people, knowledgeable professionals, and supportive friends and family through it. For all you know, someone in your circle might recommend a medication that changes your life, or refer you to a therapist who helps you see clearly.

And if you suffer alone, there will be so many people who could likely say that they could have easily helped you years ago.

Don’t let the secular humanist world get to you. Don’t let the constant negativity of a “world about to end” run by people who can’t find any happiness in life rob you of yours.

Finding a therapist is important, but the world’s way is simply not the way to go. Is it any wonder that a society that has deliberately moved farther from God is more confused, more depressed, and more hopeless than ever?

Be your own best friend and prioritize your mental health. You owe it to yourself to not live rent-free in your own brain and to enjoy the short time that you, like all of us, have on Earth.

Tierney Again Demonstrates His Position as One of the Nation’s Best Prosecutors About a decade ago, Long Island was gripped by fear, as the nation was simultaneously chilled, of an apparent serial killer in and around the Gilgo Beach area.

For years, law enforcement agencies, district attorneys, and detectives could not catch a lead to save their careers. A case gone cold, it almost seemed as if finding the culprit was like finding a needle in a haystack.

The latest allegations show that that needle was an architect in Massapequa. While still not convicted, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney (R), his department, and other involved agencies have shown tenacity, tact, and resourcefulness in hopefully closing this chapter of Long Island’s history for good.

Last summer, the nation was shocked to learn that a suspect in the famous slaying had finally been identified. Since Rex Heuermann’s initial indictments in three murders, Tierney’s office has charged him with three other murders, not only possibly finding a suspect in the famous “Gilgo Four,” but also widening the potential timeline of murders going back to the 1990s.

Heuermann now faces charges in the murders of Jessica Taylor and Sandra Costilla.

Taylor’s partial remains were found in Manorville, just a stone’s throw away from an eastern Long Island rifle club at which Heuermann was a sporadic attendee.

Furthermore, Tierney’s investigation found hundreds of electronic devices and data storage units in Heuermann’s Massapequa home. The prosecution has also obtained a record of Heuermann’s Internet search history, which includes violent and gruesome forms of pornography, as well as a detailed manifesto that nearly identically aligns with the methods of murder used on his purported victims.

The cherry on top is that Heuermann is apparently a scholar of a former FBI criminal

psychologist, whose works the alleged serial killer studied to possibly cover his crimes and evade capture.

The moral of the story: Heuermann seemed like a completely normal guy living a normal life with his normal family. Little did anyone know that an alleged psychopath possibly responsible for perhaps the most gruesome crime spree this Island has ever seen was hiding in plain sight.

Tierney’s investigation is also alleging that Heuermann didn’t just murder out of circumstance; they allege that he methodically tracked his victims down to murder them.

Now, Heuermann’s links to South Carolina, Las Vegas, northern Virginia, and Atlantic City are all on the table for examination, as similar cold cases have risen in those locations with similar telltale signs of Heuermann’s doing.

But these are all allegations, let’s be perfectly clear. However, we put a respectable amount of stock in D.A. Tierney and his work. After being sworn in as Suffolk District Attorney in 2022, Tierney has not only made strident efforts in prosecuting fentanyl dealers and those who negligently contribute to the already-staggering overdose tolls, ensure public safety and awareness through seminars and summits, and called for local government reform at Social Services, but Tierney produced a suspect in the Gilgo Beach murders after a little more than a year in office.

Tierney has built an incredible record in such a short amount of time that it’s almost unconscionable that any candidate could even fathom running against him in 2025.

Tierney has not only kept valuable campaign promises, but he’s also upheld his oath of office overwhelmingly. We consider ourselves lucky to have such local leadership here in Suffolk County.

Albany’s Session Ends and Leaves Much to Be Desired We here at The Messenger usually like to take what we can get. However, living under Albany’s rule has much left to be desired for quite some time, but another mostly unproductive year as the state continues to fall apart truly takes the cake.

Although not quite as abysmal as last year, this year still showed that Albany Democrats are leaving regular New Yorkers behind in their quest for pathological altruism and progressive myopia. No movement on the disastrous bail reform laws, no changes to the laws for fentanyl victims and their families, and no immigration reform by ending sanctuary state and city statuses.

Instead, we survived the New York 2024 legislative year and all we got was a bloated budget, gutted school district funding, $2.4 billion for illegal immigrants, and a comment from Governor Hochul (D) that black kids in the Bronx “don’t know what the word ‘computer’ is.”

Oh, and we got this lousy t-shirt.

The indefinite postponement of the MTA congestion pricing in NYC is nothing more than an election year ploy to appeal to working-class New Yorkers who make up the

backbone of this state and this country. However, Hochul has earned the ire of many city residents and commuters by denying the already cash-strapped MTA (as if it’s not their own fault to begin with) additional revenue. We’ll label that one as a wash.

Perhaps the most egregious comment from Hochul we’ve heard this year, besides the “computer” comment, is that she effectively blamed Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney (R) for the premature release of the suspects in the Babylon dismemberment case back in April. She suggested that Tierney should have “done his job” in securing bail for the suspects. Hochul is not even aware of the bail law changes that were made when she was lieutenant governor, nor is she aware of how processing charges and conducting a criminal investigation work. Insulting one of the hardest-working prosecutors in the country who has more than earned his merit in just over two years in office is something that should have warranted advice of restraint from her colleagues.

The Messenger thanks our Republican legislators for their steadfastness in maximizing their influence in state government and enduring unenviable headwinds in Albany.

Op-Ed Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Broken Parole System Indicative of New York’s Criminal Justice Failures

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By Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay

The most important job of any government is to protect the people it serves.

Unfortunately, New York Democrats have shown little interest in protecting the people who have bravely served us. The state parole board’s persistent release of cop-killers in recent years insults the victims, their families and the entire community of law enforcement professionals.

Since 2017, the state has released forty-one cop-killers, a staggering number that defies explanation. Later this month, the board will consider the release of two others, Mitchell Martin and Eddie Matos. In 1982, Martin shot and killed NYPD Officer James Whittington. Matos was convicted of the 1989 murder of NYPD Officer Anthony Dwyer.

Should parole board commissioners continue their troubling pattern, there must be ramifications. They will once again disregard the sacrifices of those officers and their families – families who will not get to spend time with their loved ones ever again. Second chances are an important part of any criminal justice system, but they must be warranted and earned. Those who indiscriminately kill cops do not check either box.

Pro-criminal advocates will never stop calling for the expedited release of inmates, shorter prison sentences and a host of misguided ideas. But it is important to note that parole releases have risen sharply in recent years, especially involving the most serious crimes: Class A-1 violent felonies (murder, kidnapping, etc.). According to the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, in 2013, these parole-eligible violent felons making their first appearance in front of the board were released 19% of the time.

By 2022, that number skyrocketed to 42%. It’s a disturbing fact that the procriminal crowd fails to mention.

To anyone paying attention, it is clear New York is facing an uphill battle when it comes to public protection. The near elimination of bail and a broken parole system are factors contributing to New York’s instability. In response, I have proposed reforms that provide much-needed oversight of the parole board

and hold cop-killing criminals accountable. They include: • A.5225 (Barclay et al.)/S.1412 (Ortt) – Allows parole board members to be removed by a majority vote of the Senate and the Assembly in addition to removal by the governor. It also removes “for cause” language, requires a minimum of three board members to interview inmates seeking parole and requires a unanimous vote for each parole determination.

• A.3906 (Barclay)/S.1271 (Ortt) – Reinstates the Death Penalty in New York State, making it an available sentence for those convicted of Murder in the First Degree for the intentional killing of police officers, specified peace officers and first responders among others. Mandates life without parole for cop killers who do not receive a death sentence.

The 2024 Legislative Session featured many opportunities to deliver critical legislation to protect law enforcement and the general public, but, as is too often the case in Albany, liberal politics took priority over common-sense policy.

Sadly, this session will be defined by what was left out—meaningful legislation to protect the public—rather than what was passed.

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

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

Will We Ever See Electrification of the LIRR Port Jeff Branch?

By Larry Penner Electrification of the Long Island Rail Road Port Jefferson branch has been periodically advocated since the 1950’s by generations of elected officials with no success. In 1970, electrification was extended from Mineola to Huntington, providing some relief. In the 1980’s, discussions took place between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, LIRR, Suffolk County and various elected officials over which branch should be electrified first. The Ronkonkoma branch was selected over the Port Jefferson branch. It took thirty-five years before the completion of full double track electrification. Funding for this effort was provided by grants from the Federal Transit Administration.

The estimated cost to extend electrification beyond Huntington today according to the MTA’s 2024 - 2044 Twenty Year Capital Needs Assessment Plan is $3.1 billion.

Between inflation and changes in scope, it will easily grow to $3.6 billion over time.

This is necessary to pay for planning, design and engineering, environmental review, private property easements, land acquisition for construction of power substations, expansion of commuter parking, relocation and/or consolidation of existing stations, new stations and platforms, new electric multiple unit car storage yard, double tracking, third rail, signals, and construction management.

From start to finish, this could require fifteen years or more.

The next opportunity for MTA to commit funding to advance the Port Jefferson electrification project will be within five months when the 2025-2029 $51 billionor-more Five-Year Capital Plan is officially released by the MTA in October 2024.

This will be followed by formal adoption of this latest Capital Plan on or before January 1, 2025.

Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine’s (R-Center Moriches) MTA Board member Marc Herbst must convince MTA Chairman Janno Lieber and LIRR President Richard Frey to include funding. The New York State Department of Transportation provides significant financial assistance to the MTA. Suffolk County should request NYSDOT also contribute. The new State Senate Transportation Committee Chairperson Jeremy A. Cooney has expressed interest in supporting transportation projects in upstate, NYC, and Long Island. Project advocates should meet with both him and State Assembly Transportation Committee Chairperson William Magnareilli to obtain their support.

Members of both the State Assembly and Senate have access to their share of several hundred million in annual funding allocated for member item local projects. Every elected official whose constituents are within the Port Jefferson LIRR branch service area who claim to support this project can contribute their fair share of financial assistance. Senators Chuck Schumer (D) and Kirsten Gillibrand

(D) always boast how they bring home billions in transit dollars to New York State to pay for various transportation projects. They both need to come on board and assist in delivering funding from Washington.

Funding to advance this project needs to be programmed in increments, first, for planning, preliminary design, engineering, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review. Several hundred million to pay for these costs need to be programmed in the upcoming 2025 - 2029 $51 billion or more Five Year Capital Program. Following the federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is necessary to preserve future Federal Transit Administration funding eligibility.

Governor Kathy Hochul (D) must be convinced to instruct MTA Chairman Janno Lieber to request permission from FTA to enter this project into the agency’s Capital Investment Grant (CIG) New Starts/Core Capacity national discretionary competitive grant program.

Then comes final design and engineering, property easements, land acquisition and utility relocation. This would be followed by $1.6 billion in local MTA funding included in the MTA 2030 - 2034 $51 billion or more Five Year Capital Plan to leverage a similar amount in federal funding under a future FTA CIG Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA). It averages five years for a multi-billion dollar project like LIRR Port Jefferson electrification from entry to award of funding under this FTA program. As each new MTA Five Year Capital program comes and goes without dedicated funding, it will delay any hope of seeing Port Jefferson branch electrification.

Continued editorial support by The Messenger and others such as Newsday is also essential to keep this project on the radar screen by both elected officials at all levels of government along with funding agencies at the state and federal level if it is to become a reality in our lifetime.

Based upon my past experiences on other Federal Transit Administration MTA LIRR projects, even if all goes well as I’ve outlined, electrification of the Port Jefferson branch may not be completed until 2040.

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as a former Director for the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management. This included the development, review, approval and oversight for billions in capital projects and programs for NJ Transit, New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NYC Transit bus, subway and Staten Island Railway, Long Island and Metro North Rail Roads, MTA Bus, NYCDOT Staten Island Ferry, along with thirty other transit agencies in New York and New Jersey.

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News Thursday, June 13, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

D-Day Veterans Honored at Long Island State Veterans Home

By Matt Meduri An incredibly profound honor, and one that is exceedingly rare nowadays, is that of meeting a D-Day Veteran and thanking him for his service.

On June 6, 1944, eighty years ago this past week, Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy, France, in what would lay the foundation for the liberation of France and an Allied victory on the Western Front. To date, the operation is the largest seaborne invasion in history.

As the average age of these surviving Veterans is now 100 years old, the opportunity to honor these heroes is becoming more and more scarce each year.

However, the Long Island State Veterans Home (LISVH) in Stony Brook has two D-Day Veterans in their regular care, and both were honored on the eightieth anniversary of D-Day. Corporal David Wolman, U.S. Army Air Corps, 412th Air Service Group, 8th Air Service Force, 100th Bomber Group, awoke at 4:00a.m. for the D-Day invasion. He worked for seventytwo consecutive hours and was frequently the last voice airmen heard as their B-17 bombers took off from the runways. Corporal Wolman is the recipient of the World War II Victory Medal, the American Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Distinguished Unit Badge, and the Liberty Medal.

After the war, Wolman worked as a Broadway accounting clerk and joined the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in its inaugural year in 1959. Wolman originally lived with his wife Gladys and daughter Nancy in Brooklyn, before moving to Centereach in 1964.

Wolman, now 102 years old, has been a resident of LISVH since 2021.

“David, please know how honored we are to care for you here at the Long Island State Veterans Home,” said LISVH Executive Director Fred Sganga.

Private Frank Agoglia, U.S. Army, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division, was inducted into the Army on May 11, 1943 and sought active duty one week later.

Agoglia flew into France in a wooden glider, attempting to land troops behind German lines on the beach. Without any engines, the mission was incredibly dangerous, as the gliders were prime targets of anti-aircraft gunfire defending the beaches, and since the gliders had no runways or strips at which to land. Half of Agoglia’s men were killed as they landed behind enemy lines.

Agoglia would glide again into battle, this time in Holland just three months later. The mission was to secure a bridge that would allow Allied troops quick entry into Germany.

Agoglia is the recipient of the Purple Heart, the European, African, Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with two bronze stars, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Distinguished Unit Badge.

Agoglia returned home and joined the NYPD in 1947, retiring in 1980. Frank and his wife raised four children in Deer Park. Agoglia, now 100 years old, has eleven children and eleven great-grandchildren. Agoglia has been a resident of LISVH since 2023.

“Frank, we’re so proud that you’re here with us today and we’re so proud to provide you with the care that you certainly deserve as a World War II Veteran on D-Day,” said Sganga.

The event’s keynote speaker was John King, Jr., Chancellor of the SUNY System. King spoke of the strides that SUNY makes in supporting Veterans, before, during, and after service.

“We make special efforts and create special pipelines to recruit Veteran students and to serve them well,” said King. “Our military line students get tailored support from academic advising to onsite childcare. They can have their military experience reviewed for college credit and eligibility, saving significant time and money toward graduation.”

“As I stand here today, I am deeply moved by the quiet heroism that surrounds us.

A heroism born of a generation that doesn’t often speak about what they did, but whose

acts and contributions are profoundly felt by the world,” King continued. “I stand here in awe of what you did, and what so many residents here did, a world away, at such a young age, for this nation.”

Followed by King was Viviana DeCohen, U.S. Marine Corps, Commissioner of the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services. In addition to delivering remarks, DeCohen represented Governor Kathy Hochul (D) at the event. She remarked on General Eisenhower’s words to the troops before the invasion: “You are about to embark on heartening this Great Crusade. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hope, prayers, and the liberty of loving people everywhere march with you.

Your task will not be an easy one. Our home front has given us overwhelming superiority in weapons and munitions of war, and placed at our disposal great reserves of trained and fierce fighting men The tide has turned. The free men of the world are marching together in victory. I have full confidence in your courage, your devotion to duty, and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory.”

DeCohen then dissected the etymology of the word “service,” showcasing that the classical definition of the world implies prevailing through suffering.

“The etymology of the word service means to prevail as in pain, steady pain, long-lasting pain,” said DeCohen. “It also means to hit, to batter, and to smite. Those are old ideas and regimes of what service looks like and of what it means. It means that while others have slept, you have walked the floor, you have put your own comforts on the back burners that others may sleep. It means that when you had a restless night, others were sleeping in somber.

It means that you have done exactly what the military motto is, to ‘embrace the suck and do it anyway.’ Your service is what we are standing atop today.”

Agoglia and Wolman were then issued proclamations on behalf of the State and Suffolk County. State proclamations were given on behalf of Senator Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk), Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue), Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R-Medford), and Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson Station). A proclamation was also given on behalf of Congressman Nick LaLota (R, NY-01).

Ryan Johnson, a representative for the NYPD Detectives Endowment Association, delivered a proclamation for Agoglia’s service in the department after his service in Europe.

Wolman was also made an honorary detective.

Marcelle Leis, retired Chief Master Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force and NY Air National Guard, and current Director of the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency, issued proclamations on behalf of Suffolk County and County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches).

Leis was accompanied by Majority Leader Nick Caracappa (C-Selden) and Legislator Chad Lennon (R-Rocky Point), Chair and Vice Chair of the Veterans Committee, respectively.

“On behalf of 1.5 million residents of Suffolk County, it is an honor to be here,” said Leis before reading the proclamations.

After proclamations were issued, candles were lit at the base of a folded American flag, one that flew at the Calverton National Cemetery on the seventy-fifth anniversary of D-Day. The flag was then thrown on sacred ground at the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach on June 6, 2019. Upon its return home to Suffolk County, the flag was raised at the Armed Forces Plaza at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge.

“This day-to-day flag is hereby placed on permanent display at the Armed Forces Plaza inside the H. Lee Dennison Building,” said Leis. “This flag represents the history, bravery, service, and the sacrifice of all the service members on that special day.”

Colors were posted and retired by the Marine Corps League, Suffolk County Detachment, commanded by Jaclyn Imperati. Invocations and the closing benediction were done by Rabbi Joseph Topek. Musical stylings were provided by Jerome City Smith.

This Week Today Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

9

Thursday, June 13, 2024

National, State and Local Temperature Checks

By Matt Meduri National

outside of Pittsburgh. The district includes all of Mahoning County, home to Youngstown, once a Democratic bastion that delivered Trump the first GOP win in this district since 1972.

Rulli and Kripchak split Mahoning County’s votes directly down the middle Tuesday night.

Once Rulli is seated, the GOP will have 219 seats in the House, which will slightly grow their razor-thin majority just five months before Election Day.

Perhaps the largest news in the national political sphere is that of Senator Joe Manchin’s (I-WV) abandonment of the Democratic Party.

The lifelong Democrat has built a meteoric career in West Virginia politics. He first served in the House of Delegates in the 1980s before moving to the State Senate from 1986 to 1996. After serving as West Virginia’s Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005, State Manchin won a landslide victory to the governor’s office in 2004. He carried On Monday, Governor Kathy every county and nearly 70% of the Hochul (D) announced the launch of vote in his 2008 re-election.

New York Mobile ID, an app that allows Manchin then resigned the New York State residents to possess a governorship after winning a special digital form of their ID in lieu of physical election to the U.S. Senate after the forms of identification at airports. passing of the longest-served U.S. The Transportation Security Senator in history Robert Byrd (D-WV).

Administration (TSA) will now accept Beacon Research Kennedy: 6% Tyson Group Manchin won the Senate race by ten Mobile IDs at security checkpoints 1,075 RV 6/1-3 Star Tribune 800 LV 6/1-3 1,050 LV 6/6-9 points, securing a full term with 60% at JFK and LaGuardia airports, a of the vote in 2012. move that officials say will speed up Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Krysten Sinema (I-AZ). Sinema, like Since Manchin is no stranger to checkpoint lines and make traveling landslide victories, his thin three-point margin in the 2018 Manchin, came under regular fire for bucking progressive more convenient. midterms came as something of a surprise. Manchin hails legislation. She registered as an Independent before opting “Not only will New Yorkers be able to quickly display their from a bygone political era of the Mountain State, in which not to run for a second term.

IDs, but they will have control over the personal information Manchin, however, can leverage his newfound political they share,” said Hochul on X, formerly known as Twitter. fiscally conservative, working-class Democrats backed the Party of Jackson in droves. A border state during the Civil War, identity into a third-party run for his current Senate seat or Users can download the Mobile ID app for free on any West Virginia always had an identity in the face of national for the open governorship in West Virginia. State Democrats smartphone device. Account setup can begin with registering politics. West Virginia would only back nine GOP presidential are urging Manchin to jump into the race, as confidence in a phone number, followed by uploading pictures of the front nominees in the Twentieth Century. No Democrat has carried any generic Democrat flipping the solid-red state’s governor’s and back of a physical form of ID, such as a driver’s license West Virginia since Bill Clinton (D-AR) in 1996. However, West mansion seems slim, and Manchin’s 2018 opponent, Patrick or passport. A user can then upload an image of him/herself Virginia’s ancestral Democratic lean permeated significantly Morrisey, recently earned the Republican nomination. onto the app that will be verified with DMV. In immediate election news, the primary contests into the Twenty-First Century.

Once at the airport, a traveler can scan his/her app at the Democrats held both of West Virginia’s U.S. Senate seats officially wrapped up Saturday night with Democratic caucuses checkpoint without handing over the phone to a TSA agent. from 1959 until Shelley Moore Capito (R) flipped one of the in Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Biden won all fourteen The information is encrypted and shared digitally with TSA. delegates from Guam and all seven delegates at stake in the seats in 2014.

Users are recommended to still keep their physical ID Manchin underperformed the 2018 national environment, Virgin Islands. with them when traveling in case the digital ID cannot be Tuesday night, however, featured primaries in several verified. one which favored Democrats by about nine points, mainly by Republicans running Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, whose high-stakes contests in 2024.

For now, usage of Mobile ID is voluntary; however, it is In one of the most competitive House districts in likely to fall in line with federal requirements of a “RealID” by relatively recent arrival to West Virginia made conservatives the country, a freshman Maine state representative and next May for domestic air travel. comfortable with supporting a familiar face like Manchin’s.

After the Senate fell under 50-50 control following the professional stock car racer has earned the GOP nomination 2020 elections, with Vice President Kamala Harris (D-CA) to take on one of the House’s most moderate Democrats.

Local Austin Theriault will face Jared Golden (D) in Maine’s casting tie-breaking votes when necessary, Manchin quickly earned the title “the most powerful Joe in America,” as his Second Congressional District. Rural, industrial, and heavily Congressman Nick LaLota (R, NY-01), along with steadfastly moderate and intrinsically blue-dog voting profile Republican, Golden flipped the seat in 2018 and has warded Congressman Lou Correa (D, CA-46) introduced the Detection made him a thorn in the side of progressive legislation, but off two spirited challenges since then. A blue dog who Equipment and Technology Evaluation to Counter the Threat regularly bets his particular brand of iconoclastic politics of (DETECT) Fentanyl and Xylazine Act. The bill would allow not necessarily a savior of the conservative right either.

Manchin was initially seen as a massive underdog in against national headwinds, Golden will likely have his the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to research, this year’s Senate race, so much so that he chose not to seek toughest race yet, as Trump appears likely to not only win ME- develop, test, and evaluate equipment that would help law re-election, all but guaranteeing Republicans flip the other 02 by a convincing margin, but also appears likely to put the enforcement better detect fentanyl, xylazine, and other drugs. state overall in play.

Senate seat from West Virginia.

The bill would create a new statutory responsibility In Nevada, businessman Sam Brown (R) earned the right for the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) at DHS to Speculation has long insisted that Manchin was considering a moderate primary run against Joe Biden (D- to take on freshman Senator Jacky Rosen (D). Rosen flipped evaluate the effectiveness and conduct a cost-benefit analysis DE) for president. After that failed to materialize, Manchin the seat in 2018 and is one of this year’s most vulnerable of drug-detecting equipment used by federal, state, local, and was considered a possible “No Labels” contender or third- incumbents. tribal law enforcement agencies. It would also prioritize three Despite this, Rosen has polled well ahead of Biden, who areas of focus with the potential to include other areas of party vice presidential running mate, after his frequent fraternization with the think tank left Capitol Hill Democrats trails Trump by more than five points on average in the Silver focus in the future: portable detection equipment; equipment terrified of a party schism that could cost Biden a second State. In an era of decreased split-ticket voting, this race may that can separate complex drug cocktails to enable detection; come down to sheer turnout between the parties. All eyes and technologies that use AI and machine learning to predict term.

However, Manchin decided to make a somewhat turn to Rosen’s polling lead, which may or may not evaporate which substances are detected or detect a new substance not unexpected move. After much goading from moderate now that Republicans have selected a nominee. yet included in the drug reference library.

In North Dakota, 61% of voters approved a constitutional politicians and voters, Manchin has officially left the “Illicit narcotics such as fentanyl and xylazine have hurt amendment that would prevent individuals from being elected communities across this country, including at home on Long Democratic Party.

His decision came in the immediate wake of the guilty or appointed to Congress if he/she should reach eighty-one Island. We must give law enforcement every tool needed to verdicts announced against former President Donald Trump years of age by the end of his/her term. keep our communities safe while enhancing public awareness The passage is likely to be struck down by the U.S. about these substances’ effects,” said LaLota. “I am proud to (R-FL). In his statement, Manchin criticized both parties for prioritizing “partisan extremism” and “jeopardizing our Supreme Court, who in 1995 ruled that states cannot set partner with Congressman Correa on the bipartisan DETECT qualifications for Congress. democracy.”

Fentanyl and Xylazine Act to help our law enforcement Finally, Republicans underperformed in a special Ohio agencies better combat these substances that have claimed “Today, our national politics are broken and neither party is willing to compromise to find common ground,” said election to fill the term of Bill Johnson (R). Michael Rulli (R) too many lives and left countless families in despair. I am Manchin in a statement. “To stay true to myself and remain defeated Michael Kripchak (D) by just under ten points - committed to ending this public health pandemic and fighting committed to put country before party, I have decided to 54.7%-45.3% - in a safely Republican district that re-elected to make sure every ounce of these narcotics are off our streets register as an Independent with no party affiliation and Johnson with 68% of the vote in 2022. and out of our communities.”

OH-06 spans nearly the entire eastern border of the continue to fight for America’s sensible majority.”

The House’s companion legislation in the Senate (S.4419) Manchin now joins the ranks of three other Independents state. It takes in rural and working-class communities along was sponsored by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Jon Ossoff (Dwho still caucus with the Democrats: Angus King (I-ME), the West Virginia border up to the Pennsylvania border just GA), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ).

48% 48%

VIRGINIA

Even

41 45 %

%

MINNESOTA

Biden +4

46%

36%

FLORIDA

Trump +10

10 Continued from front cover

News Thursday, June 13, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

State Holds First Public Meeting for Kings Park DRI Grant

“This was our fifth run of trying to secure this grant,” said Councilman Tom Lohmann (R-Smithtown) (pictured below) in opening remarks. “Your tax money that goes to other places is back here in Kings Park where it belongs.”

The Town and community are being guided through the process by the State’s prize consultants for the Long Island region. The consultants have guided other communities through similar DRI grant projects before. The local planning committee is made up of community members, who also hold public meetings for the purpose of the grant.

The DRI, which is in its seventh overall year, assigns grants to municipalities in the ten economic regions of New York. In the Long Island region, previous recipients have been Westbury, Hicksville, Central Islip, Baldwin, Amityville, Riverhead, and Huntington Station.

Edward Lamson, Principal and Co-Director of Urban Planning at BJH, the State’s consultants, ran the presentation and informed the attendees on how the DRI works and what to expect throughout the course of the process as it pertains to Kings Park.

“The DRI program has a series of statewide goals for each community to aspire to,” said Lamson. “To create active downtowns with a strong sense of place to attract new businesses, enhance public spaces for arts and cultural events, to build a diverse population to complement housing and employment opportunities, to grow the local tax base, to provide amenities that support quality of life, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

Lamson used the Westbury project as an example of what the DRI grant could implement through public input. Westbury saw transit-oriented development (TOD) near the LIRR station, new pedestrian and sidewalk upgrades along the main street, and a small project plan to improve businesses, facades, and revenues.

Lamson also said that after a six-month period of public input, the consultancy firm and the local planning committee will evaluate the project proposals and make the recommendations to the State. The State then makes determinations based on those proposals.

“These [community] goals and vision statements will be used to evaluate the project,” said Lamson. “A lot of planning has been done to date in this community, and that’s also one of the reasons why this community was awarded the funds. You have a master plan, and we want to build on that momentum. At the very end of this, our goal is to ensure that many voices are heard and perspectives are heard about these projects and that proposed projects are carefully considered and vetted by both the town and the committee.”

Lamson said that property owners, homeowners, business owners, and residents alike can suggest project ideas for consideration. Lamson used an example from the Huntington Station project, in which a member of the public proposed new pathways from the sidewalk to the LIRR station. The Town adopted the idea and it was funded through the State DRI grant.

However, Lamson mentioned that not every proposal will make it into the final plan.

“The local planning committee must discuss - and these meetings are all public - and decide on the final list of projects to recommend. That’s part of the process, and that’s why we have five public meetings,” said Lamson.

Lamson stressed that the purpose of Thursday’s meeting was to begin collecting public input, deem which projects are eligible or ineligible for funding, and escalate those projects to the various boards and committees involved. Lamson said that projects submitted must be “ready to be implemented in the near future, are transformational, and feasible, meaning that they are projects of public support and they can fit within the town’s approval process.”

The four main categories of funding are all capital improvements or investments. The first category is public improvement projects, which includes street improvements, main street enhancements, parks, and public art.

The second category pertains to new development or rehabilitation of downtown buildings.

This can include proposals like mixed-use commercial or residential developments.

The third category involves small project grants, including facade improvements, small-scale renovations, or business assistance.

The fourth and final category of funding concerns branding and marketing. This includes signage, wayfinding, marketing services for the area, or branding service for the Chamber of Commerce.

The DRI does not fund stand-alone planning activities, operations and maintenance, preaward costs, property acquisition, training or program expenses, social programs, or public safety, nor does it replace existing resources.

A project must break ground within two years of receiving DRI funding.

The event was then open to public input and questions from residents.

One resident voiced his concerns on the state of the roads and the dangers they pose to pedestrians, to which Lamson said that while the Town has identified sites for streetscape

improvements, the scope of their assessment is not necessarily final.

Lamson asked for project submissions that pertain to traffic-calming measures, pedestrian crossings, or other safety features of the roadways.

Another resident mentioned visible, disorganized electrical wires, suggesting they be put underground.

A longtime Kings Park resident asked if the existing sewer projects would be able to handle possible development projects included in the DRI grant. Lamson said that much of that depends on public input, as well as an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), as well parameters set by Suffolk County.

The same resident also asked where the acceptance rate of proposed projects stands in relation to other Long Island communities.

Lamson said that the Huntington project received twenty project requests, which would have cost $20 million. The list was then narrowed down to what would fit into the predetermined $9.7 million grant from the State.

Bill Pawlirzyn (pictured left), a Kings Park resident, cautioned the audience against overdevelopment, stating that “transformation” means “change our town.”

“They want to diversify our population because they’re not happy with our current population,” said Pawlirzyn.

Kim Francisci asked about strains on services if development becomes part of the DRI plan. She compared Kings Park to nearby Northport, an incorporated village that has its own public safety. Francisci lamented slow response times from SCPD, as well as a twenty-minute ambulance response time for a recent car accident.

Francisci also asked about the code of conduct for committee members who submit projects of their own. Lamson said that committee members will not be involved in the deliberation of a project he or she has submitted. A committee member will not even be allowed in the room to discuss the project he or she has suggested.

Heather Speciale brought up the problem of absentee landlords, asking how the DRI consultants and committee will be able to mitigate the threat of an out-of-state landlord looking to cash in on the DRI grant funding in Kings Park.

“We are leaning towards the community to avoid these concerns,” said Lamson. “I think part of it is trying to get those absentee landlords to invest in these properties. If they’re not in the community, this is one way to get them.”

Attendees were then able to consult numerous easels with renderings of Kings Park, as well as sticky notes to include their suggestions and visions for the future of the area (pictured in top photo).

“I believe at the end of the day, Kings Park is going to see a really nice product,” Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) told The Messenger.

As a Kings Park resident himself, Wehrheim answered what he would like to see for the future of his community.

“I want to see beautiful streetscapes, which we have additional funding above the $9.7 million we’re getting from the State. That’s put away, so we’re going to plan nice streetscapes,” said Wehrheim. “Running electric underground is a good proposal, but we have to look at pricing on that. We tried that for the Lake Avenue [St. James] project, but PSE&G said it’s about $6 million per mile. King Park’s main street is a little less than a mile, but it’s something we’ll look at.”

Wehrheim added that he would like to see a “walkable” community with improved restaurants - a feasible plan with extended sewer capacities.

“Kings Park is centrally located,” said Wehrheim, referencing the numerous parks and beaches nearby, as well as the LIRR station in the heart of town. “It’s about bringing people into Kings Park to make the businesses profitable and raise property values.”

Apart from the DRI grant initiatives, Wehrheim said that the Town is currently looking at the vacant lot on the corner of Thompson Street and Main Street, a parcel he says would be “prime real estate” for central parking, perhaps with a small pocket park in the middle of the business district.

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) also attended the meeting, agreeing with the proposal that the electric wires should be buried along Main Street, as well as stressing “pride in ownership” as it relates to development.

“I’m not for these apartments. People didn’t move to Kings Park for apartments. I think a small number would okay, but I don’t think fifty of them on a quarter, half, or eighth of an acre is appropriate,” Trotta told The Messenger. “Half of them should be condos; we are robbing a generation of building equity. If you’re renting an apartment for $3,000 a month, you’re not saving any money. Developers want recurring revenue; they want to build and collect forever. If they want to do that, go to Queens.”

The application for project ideas is live at kingsparkdri.com/documents. Meeting slides and recordings can also be found at the link. Project works are due Friday, July 19, by 5:00 p.m. Late and incomplete project submissions will be accepted at the discretion of the local planning committee.

Long Island Locavore Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

By Nancy Vallarella

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Everybody Loves Carrots!

Credit - Nancy Vallarella

Carrot enthusiasts on Long Island, get ready to hop with joy! The local carrot growing season is in full swing from June through November, and it’s time to embrace the rainbow of these vibrant root veggies.

Did you know carrots come in a dazzling array of colors? Long before the Dutch gave us the classic orange carrot in the 17th Century, carrots were flaunting their hues in yellow, white, and purple. Today, orange carrots reign supreme as a prime source of beta-carotene. Meanwhile, purple carrots boast anthocyanins— powerful antioxidants, and white carrots offer a gentler flavor, while yellow carrots tempt with their sweet allure.

We all know the joys of chomping on a crisp carrot stick, perhaps dipped in hummus or a tangy dressing. Buttered and roasted carrots are holiday staples, and let’s not forget those handy frozen peas and carrots. But let’s venture beyond the familiar! How about a carrot dish that’s deliciously different, satisfying, and brimming with personality?

11 Chef Steven Gallagher Photo Credit The Trattoria

Enter The Trattoria in St. James, where Chef Steven Gallagher crafts a carrot soup that’s nothing short of a masterpiece. Thanks to Chef Gallagher’s generosity, we’re unveiling this culinary gem for you to recreate at home.

Chef Gallagher’s secret? The magic of locally sourced carrots from HOG Farm in Brookhaven hamlet. “You can really taste the difference on the plate, and it holds up better too,” he assures us.

Drawing on his rich culinary journey and a transformative trip to Paris—where he discovered the aromatic allure of vadouvan (French curry powder) in a mussels and carrots dish—Chef Gallagher (pictured above) has infused this recipe with a unique blend of flavors. Add to that a touch of Italian elegance with fennel in the mirepoix, mascarpone cheese, and a delightful crumble of amaretti cookies, and you have a soup that’s nothing short of divine.

Long Island Locavore was created by Nancy Vallarella.

Managing farmer’s markets, creating recipes, and giving food demonstrations all contribute to bringing awareness to all things farmed, fished, foraged, and produced on Long Island!

Spiced Carrots with Hummus, Toasted Pine Nuts & Carrot Top Pesto

Carrot Ginger Soup with Mascarpone & Amaretti Crumble

For more recipes, or to ask a question, DM @lilocavore495 on Instagram or contact her via email lilocavore495@ gmail.com

Serves 4-6

By Chef Steven Gallagher of The Trattoria, St. James Ingredients: • 2 lbs. carrots, sliced thin • 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil • 1 large onion (1 ½ cups), chopped • ¼ cup fennel (bulb only), chopped • 2 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 inch piece of ginger • 1 Tbs. vadouvan (French curry powder) • 6 cups vegetable stock (low sodium) • Basil stems (tied in a bundle) - optional • 2 Tbs. cold butter, cut into pieces – optional • Salt & pepper, to taste • Garnishes – mascarpone cheese and crumbled amaretti cookies Directions: 1. In a heavy-bottom 5-quart pot, warm 2 Tbs. of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, onion, fennel, and garlic. Grate half of the fresh ginger into the mix. Sprinkle in the vadouvan and season with salt.

Sauté the vegetables until they are tender.

2. Pour in the vegetable stock and heat until warm. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional grated ginger and salt if needed. Add the tied basil stems if using, and simmer for 40 minutes.

3. Once the soup is cooked, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Discard the basil stems. Transfer the soup to a blender, working in batches if necessary. When blending hot liquids, remove the center part of the blender lid and cover the hole with a folded kitchen towel to allow steam to escape safely. Alternatively, use an immersion blender and a fine wire strainer.

4. For a creamy, velvety texture, blend in the cold butter.

5. Return the blended soup to the pot and heat through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve the soup with a dollop of mascarpone cheese and a sprinkle of crumbled amaretti cookies.

Enjoy bringing this carrot creation to life in your kitchen!

School Highlights

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Thursday, June 13, 2024

Sweet Success for Smithtown High School East Musicians

They came, they ate chocolate and hit all the right notes. One hundred and sixty Smithtown High School East musicians returned victorious from the Music in the Parks festival at Hershey Park on May 31.

This was the music department’s first overnight trip, but one wouldn’t know since all three music groups excelled. The concert choir, under the direction of Mr. Mark Hegreness, received a superior rating and first place in their category.

Headed by Mr. Brian McCoy, the symphonic orchestra received a superior rating and first place in their category. They were also rated the Best Overall Orchestra.

The symphonic band, led by Mrs. Jennifer Leavy, received a superior rating and first place in their category and was also rated the Best Overall Band.

Striking the Right Notes at Smithtown HS West The Smithtown High School West jazz choir and concert choir, under the direction of James Brosnan, the jazz ensemble under the direction of Frank Scheno and the concert and symphonic orchestras under the direction of Joseph Cotignola, excelled at the recent Music in the Parks competition festival held at

Six Flags Great Adventure on May 11.

Music in the Parks is an exciting opportunity for students of the music program to participate in a competitive festival and also have a fun day at Six Flags. The first portion of the day consisted of a performance where the ensembles were adjudicated by master musicians in their respective field. The adjudicators recorded audio commentary and completed assessments for each group that will aid in refining the already impressive talents of these ensembles.

The jazz ensemble, jazz choir, concert choir and symphonic orchestra all received the highest rating of superior in their respective categories and the concert orchestra earned a very

impressive excellent rating. The jazz ensemble and symphonic orchestra were also awarded the honor of best Overall Ensemble in their categories.

In total, 115 Smithtown West musicians participated in the festival. Senior musician of the jazz and concert choir, Noella Sexton said, “Music in the Parks was an incredibly binding experience. As it produced one of the strongest senses of community I have ever experienced. Getting to watch the orchestra and jazz ensemble perform truly pulled on my heart, as well as performing in both choirs.”

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

School Highlights Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

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Thursday, June 13, 2024

Three Village Students Earn LISFA Scholarships Several violin players from the Three Village Central School District were awarded private study grants worth $400 from the Long Island String Festival Association.

Congratulations to Arrowhead Elementary School student Vivian Wei, and W.S. Mount Elementary School students Harry Dong and Renata Trujillo.

The scholarship goes toward private instrument lessons for these young musicians.

They were selected based on a student-written letter explaining why they want to be considered for the scholarship, as well as a teacher recommendation letter.

Sachem North Student Heads to Villanova on Full Scholarship Sachem High School North senior Ryan DeSimone is off to Villanova University this fall on a full scholarship. DeSimone earned the Presidential Scholarship after a rigorous selection and interview process.

The Presidential Scholars Program looks to recruit and support student-leaders who have a passion for learning and a commitment to serving their local community, as well as the broader civic community. There is no GPA requirement, however, the program draws academic and civic leaders who are actively engaged in learning both inside and out of the classroom.

DeSimone was first nominated for the program, then had to submit a meticulous application. Those who are selected as finalists then participate in an on-campus interview program. Nearly 2,000 nominations are submitted each year for the scholarship with only 25 students being selected.

Hauppauge Eighth Graders Complete First Year of Newton STEM Scholar Program

On May 23, several Hauppauge Middle School eighth grade students participated in a pinning ceremony to signify the completion of their first year of the Newton STEM Scholar program.

In his speech, Director of Science and Research Dr. Robert Wankmuller explained to students, “Just as Newton has three laws of motion, you have two more

apples to earn to become Newton STEM Scholars.” He then encouraged the sixth and seventh grade science research students to stick with research so that they too could become a part of the program.

Congratulations to students Sahmuel Babyak, Sophia Brown, Erin Cannata, Nicholas Castanzo, Chloe Coughlin, Dominick DeSiervi, Chris Dileep, Kiersten Drake, Luke

Gamble, Samuel Gamble, Sophie Greene, Joseph Kaydanov, Joseph Le, Matthew Monahan, Rheanna Samuel, Steven Tola, and Andrew Weir on completing their first year in the Newton STEM Scholar program.

Afterward, the middle school science research students presented their projects to all of the sixthgrade classes.

14

Civics 101 Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

The Necessary Standard for American Education

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.

The Rise and Fall of Competition in U.S. Senate Races

By Matt Meduri As the upper chamber of the U.S. Congress, the Senate provides states with equal representation; each state gets two. Senate terms are six years long with no term limits for incumbent. Once a body more reflective of the political whims of a state’s ancestral politics, the Senate has since grown to mirror presidential-level results very closely, resulting in the lowest number of states with split delegations since the direct election of Senators began in 1913.

Before the Seventeenth Amendment Originally, members of the U.S. House were elected popularly, as House districts are drawn to be roughly equal in population.

Senators, on the other hand, were elected by the respective state legislators, who in turn were elected popularly. The logic behind this was that the Senate was essentially the state’s lobbying arm in the federal government. Since local elections can swing wildly between election years, in tandem with presidential and midterm environments, it was assumed that the people would select local elected officials who they believed would best represent their districts. Those state legislators would then confirm the Senators to send to Washington.

With the passage of the Seventeenth Amendment in 1913, Senators began being elected popularly. The logic behind this move was to end pay-to-play systems in which allies of a state’s political party and friends of the capital in general could easily ascend to Washington.

Since then, the Senate map has evolved immensely over the various political eras the country has experienced. It begs the question of what kind of bargaining power certain parties in Washington would still have today if the Seventeenth Amendment was never ratified. Republicans held the Senate in New York from WWII until 2018, with a few years of Democratic control in between.

Theoretically, a Republican, or more moderate Democrat, could have represented New York in Washington as early as the last election, which was in 2016.

“Split” Delegations A split delegation is simply one that is shared between two parties. Split delegations are generally evident of elected officials who represent their states accurately in the eyes of constituents, as well as those of healthy competition.

Split delegations became more prominent in the 1960s and 1970s. In 1980, twenty-seven states had split delegations, and there were never less than twenty states with split delegations from 1973 to 1994.

As recently as 2014, Louisiana, Arkansas, Alaska, South Dakota, Iowa, and Illinois had split delegations. Red states like Indiana and Montana had two Democratic Senators each, while as recently as 2008, blue states like Oregon, Minnesota, and New Mexico had Republican Senators.

Now, only five states have split delegations, the lowest since the direct election of Senators began in 1913. Maine, Montana, Ohio, West Virginia, and Wisconsin have one Republican Senator and one Democratic Senator each. Technically, Angus King (I-ME) and Joe Manchin (I-WV) are Independents, but caucus with the Democrats. The same can be said for Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT), although those states have Democrats occupying the other seats.

A Decline in Competition The rise and fall in split delegations has always been cyclical, but the current dearth of cooperative Senate representation is unparalleled in American electoral history. Many assert that the downturn in split delegations is due to an increase in partisanship and a decrease in split-ticket voting.

Regarding the aforementioned states, Democrats flipped eight seats in the 2008 elections. Only one of them, Alaska, split their tickets, backing Mark Begich (D) for Senate and John McCain (R-AZ) for president. In 2012, Indiana backed Mitt Romney (R-MA) for president, but Democrat Joe Donnelly flipped the seat blue. That same year, Democrats were re-elected in North Dakota, Missouri, and West Virginia as Romney carried those states, while Republican Dean Heller was elected in Nevada despite having backed Obama on the same night.

2016 was a historic election night in many ways. However, the Senate elections were the first in which each state’s Senate elections mirrored their respective presidential results exactly.

2018 was no exception to typical anti-incumbent president midterm energy. Four states that backed Trump two years prior ousted incumbent Democrats, while Nevada ousted Senator Heller; Nevada had backed Hillary Clinton (D-NY) in 2016. Arizona was the only outlier, having backed Trump in 2016 but electing Sinema that year.

In 2020, Maine’s Susan Collins (R) was the only Senator to deliver a Senate result opposite that of the concurrent presidential vote.

Every other state opted for President and Senator of the same party.

Compare these results to those of 2000. Bush-won states that elected Democratic Senators in Missouri, Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota, and West Virginia. While Gore-won states elected Republican Senators in Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania.

These results only become more spread out the further back in history we go. We’ll look at 1976 since it was a close presidential election where the states were mostly evenly divided between Jimmy Carter (D-GA) and Gerald Ford (R-MI). This election also skips outliers from the Reagan landslides of 1980 and 1994 and thirdparty performances from Ross Perot (I-TX) in 1992 and 1996.

Democrats won Senate races in ten states that Ford carried, while Republicans won Senate races in four states that Carter carried.

Not only have states begun to mirror presidential results at face value, but they have also begun to mirror them in terms of margin as well, showing that candidate quality does not necessarily have as much of an effect on overperformance or underperformance as it once did.

Because of increased partisanship, the Senate’s alternating maps put certain states in the throes of partisan politics on a regular basis. Because of six-year staggered terms, Senators find themselves running in a presidential year in one election, followed by a midterm year six years later. This effectively guarantees competition on paper, as a state that safely elects one party in a presidential year could find itself in a competitive race in a tough midterm environment.

The Current Split Delegations and 2024 Landscape The five states with split delegations are political anomalies in and of themselves.

Maine is known for its intrinsic libertarianism, classical Yankee Republicanism, and ardent opposition to certain national trends.

One of the most bipartisan Senators of several sessions of Congress, Susan Collins won re-election by ten points as Joe Biden (D-DE) carried the state by nine points in 2020. Notably independent as well, Maine has given two terms - so far - to Angus King, who served two terms as governor as an Independent. Despite caucusing with Democrats in the Senate, King does not run on their ticket in elections.

Montana is known for a strict east-west divide, with the eastern two-third being friendly to Republicans as a mostly-agrarian landscape, and the western third being heavily Democratic, unionized mining towns. Democrats have occupied at least one Senate seat in Montana for most of its statehood, with Republicans having last held both simultaneously in 1911. Senator Steve Daines (R) made history in 2020 by becoming the first Republican ever reelected to the U.S. Senate from Montana’s Class II Senate seat.

Incumbent Jon Tester (D) is a regular overperformer, but he’ll have to generate roughly twenty points of crossover support to

retain his seat in a state that is likely to go Trump by about that margin. In every election since 1972, Montana has swung against the incumbent president, virtually erasing any margin for error Tester originally might have had. If Tester does somehow pull this out, it would be an electoral feat for the current age.

Ohio was once the quintessential swing state, but Democrats have suffered geography problems at the hands of the Trump era, as former working-class, mostly union households have left the party in droves. Not only can the Democrats not reliably count on Ohio’s electoral votes anymore, Democrats will have to try much harder to retain this seat for incumbent Sherrod Brown (D) this year.

West Virginia was once an ancestrally Democratic state full of union, blue-collar workers from the coal and steel industries. Joe Manchin barely got by in 2018, vastly underperforming the national environment, mostly to a weak opponent. However, running against a ticket that is likely to back Trump by at least forty points was seen as a virtually impossible task. Manchin opted not to run for another term, essentially guaranteeing a Republican gain in the closely-divided chamber.

Finally, Wisconsin is about as closely divided a swing state as it gets. Mostly partisan to begin with, Wisconsin re-elected Ron Johnson (R) in 2016 as Trump also carried the state, becoming the first Republican to do so since 1984. Johnson survived a tough reelection bid in 2022, but rode the weak GOP environment to another term. Wisconsin’s other seat, held by Tammy Baldwin (D), is on the ballot this year, and while she should be in danger, on paper, she might fare well despite the highly competitive presidential contest brewing there.

Republicans are bullish on businessman Eric Hovde’s (R) chances this year, but Wisconsin might continue its streak of swing state politics this year.

Around Town Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Legislator Trotta Recognizes Jacob Wolmetz as 13th District’s 2024 Youth Award Recipient In 2020, the Legislature established the Annual Youth Award to recognize an exceptional young person in each Legislative District. Legislator Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) named Jacob Wolmetz, of Commack, a sophomore at Hauppauge High School, as his district Youth Award recipient.

Shannon Griffin, the social worker at the school, nominated him.

Jacob is President of the Social Awareness/Students Against Destructive Decisions Club and Vice President of Model United Nations. He is also involved with the Student Council, Ignition (a freshman mentoring program), Natural Helpers, and on the Principal Honor Roll. He is the student representative for Cohen’s Strong Mental health, a program that

15

works with Northwell Health to promote mental health in schools. In that capacity, Jacob has advocated for funding in Albany and Washington, DC. Active in the French Honor Society, Jacob received both the bronze and silver medals from Le Grands Concours, a national French contest, in which he placed sixth in the country on the 2024 exam.

Legislator Trotta said, “Jacob is a bright young man who has accomplished a great deal for his age. All of his school extracurricular activities and his efforts to solicit funding to promote mental health in schools impresses me. He clearly has developed leadership skills, and other qualities of humanity so desirable in young people. I wish him much success with his future endeavors.”

2024 ‘Yaz’ Winner

Congratulations to Kings Park’s Hunter Colagrande for winning the 2024 Carl Yastrzemski Award! Named after the MLB Hall of Famer, the award is given to the best player in Suffolk County each year. The Stony Brook commit put up major stats this season with a 10-0 record, .30 ERA, and 104 K’s to earn this prestigious award.

Around Town

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Thursday, June 13, 2024

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Loud Majority Kicks Off Summer Rally Season, Zeldin Makes Guest Appearance

By Matt Meduri In the wake of the 2020 rallies effectively postponed by the COVID-19 Pandemic, many groups across the country took it upon themselves to organize their own displays of support for then-President Donald Trump (R-FL), with the primary modes of display being car parades.

Parades were seen across the country, from downtown Portland, Oregon, to northern New Jersey. But on Long Island, one group took to making the parades a de facto trademark: the Long Island Loud Majority (LILM).

Now under the leadership of Kevin Smith, one of the founders of the organization, LILM has kicked off the rally season with a car parade that ran from the Massapequa LIRR station to Babylon’s Cedar Beach on the afternoon of Saturday, June 8.

“This took a few days to plan,” Smith told The Messenger. “The response has been great,” he added, stating that nearly 3,000 attendees showed up for the parade.

“I think Donald Trump is going to be the first Republican president to win the popular vote in the last twenty years, and that’s going to come through Long Island,” said Smith.

“If he is going to win the popular vote, New York is going to be key in that.”

Smith addressed the crowd and discussed how keeping the attention on New York is vital to an aggressive push for the state on November’s Electoral College map.

The state has not backed a Republican nominee since it opted for Ronald Reagan (R-CA) in 1984.

Smith cited the latest Emerson College poll that shows President Joe Biden (D-DE) up just seven points when third-party candidates are included. Biden won New York by over twenty-three points in 2020.

“When you look at how Donald Trump is doing around the country, no matter what they throw at him, no matter how many times they arrest him, no matter how many times these charges are thrown at him, he continues to rise in the polls,” Smith told the crowd. Smith added that the way a vote can spread across the map is by registering voters. Smith and LILM registered four hundred voters at Trump’s Bronx rally last month. He also added that a friend he’s known for “thirty years” that was not “involved in politics” registered to vote before the rally officially kicked off.

“There are so many people not engaged in the political process, and then they wonder why their lives suck,” said Smith. “Their lives suck because they are not grabbing the opportunity they have and running with it.

If you wait for elected officials or members of Congress to save this country, we are screwed.”

Smith added that large media outlets, such as Newsday and News 12, were not on hand to cover the thousands of people rallying in Massapequa, despite their coverage of much smaller events in size and scope.

“They’re nowhere to be found and they wonder why nobody trusts the media

going further,” said Zeldin. “No longer will Democrats go on offense winning races in red states like Georgia. It’s time for Donald Trump and for all of us to go on offense, winning in places like New York.”

Zeldin added that New Jersey, Virginia, New Mexico, and Minnesota are also targets of competition from the GOP ticket this year.

“But we can’t take anything for granted,” Zeldin cautioned. “If anyone is talking about a ‘red wave’ or a ‘red tsunami,’ it’s okay to be optimistic, but you had better be doing everything in your power, all day every day,

to make it happen. People sometimes use the excuse of a ‘red wave’ to not work hard. Every time a poll comes out that says President Trump is ahead, work harder. Everytime a poll comes out that says Trump is behind, work harder.”

The Messenger caught up with Zeldin after his speech, inquiring about the ground game in New York and what parallels there might be from his nearsuccessful 2022 campaign.

“I think President Trump has shown a strong interest and motivation t earning the votes of New Yorkers, not

policies. They want to try something different. I think that President Trump has a great opportunity to expand the map,” said Zeldin.

The Messenger caught up with some attendees from the rally to gather their thoughts on the state of play in New York.

“I always thought I was a Democrat, but I didn’t know what I was voting for,” Jessica Makin, 31, of the Smithtown portion of Commack told The Messenger. “I don’t think it’s right that there are other countries who are okay with possibly damaging us.

We used to be feared as a country. We’re supposed to have the best system in the entire world, and even though it’s broken, we still have the best system.”

Makin, a corporate paralegal, said the June 8 car parade was her first of such an event.

“I have never experienced such love and admiration for each other,” John Flanagan - no relation to former Senator John Flanagan (R-East Northport) - said of the rally and the energy that comes with it.

“It’s an atmosphere of love and respect; it’s nothing like that you see from the other side.”

Flanagan, a CSEA Vice President from Shirley, said that roughly “95%” of his neighborhood supports Trump.

“Those who voted for Biden have all swung,” said Barbara Keuning of Levittown.

“These are lifelong Democrats who have had enough of the party.”

A Smithtown resident, who wished to be referred to only as Diane, called the recent trial against Trump “unfair,” and that “we’ve had enough of this leftist BS.”

just Republicans, but Democrats too,” Zeldin told The Messenger, saying Trump’s May rally in the South Bronx demonstrates Trump’s desire to connect with New York voters. He also mentioned Trump’s personal visit to the bodega of Jose Alba, a Manhattan clerk who was charged in 2022 by stabbing an ex-convict in self defense.

Alba made international headlines after he was charged by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D), but the charges were eventually dropped.

“There are a lot of New Yorkers who right now are getting burned by Democratic

A north shore Nassau County resident who wished to remain anonymous called herself a “Long Islander and a taxpayer.”

“I’ve been a Republican, but over the years I have voted for Democrats when I felt it was necessary,” said the supporter, stating that support for Trump is “absolutely imperative” this year. The supporter said that Trump will “bring America back together again.”

The rally landed in Cedar Beach later that evening. Smith said that this rally is the “first of many” from now until Election Day.

anymore,” said Smith.

Before the parade hit the road to Cedar Beach, former Congressman and 2022 gubernatorial candidate Lee Zeldin (R-Shirley) took the stage to address the crowd, not only behalf of himself and fellow New York conservatives, but also on behalf of President Trump.

Zeldin said that immediately as Biden’s term began, Biden took steps to “open our border, make life less affordable, attack parental rights, make it harder to access our own

energy and resources, and attack democracy in a way that he has relinquished the ability to lecture anyone else on democracy.”

Zeldin also said that Trump intends not to “pander” to voters, but instead to “earn their support.”

“President Trump isn’t trying to pander votes from the black community, the Hispanic community, or the Asian community,” said Zeldin. “He is trying to earn the support of Democrats who have been long disenfranchised.”

Zeldin added that if Democrats “truly care about something that transcends blindness and loyalty,” their best strategy would be to vote for Trump.

“If you care about your kids’ future, our border, and economic prosperity, and everything else that motivates all of us as conservatives, then even Democrats, too, need to try something different,” said Zeldin.

Zeldin also mentioned the recent Emerson poll of New York, saying that the poll indicates that Trump is within “striking distance” of winning New York. He discussed how Trump is often told that he is “wasting his time” by campaigning in Democratic bastions, such as the Bronx or Detroit.

“We are busting down that blue wall of Michigan and Wisconsin, and we are

County News Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

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Suffolk County Pays Tribute to Korean War Veterans at Monument Dedication Ceremony

By Cait Crudden Suffolk County Legislators, alongside community members and Veterans’ families, gathered at the new Monument unveiling at the Dennison building to honor the brave men and women who served in the Korean War. The solemn ceremony, held on a sunlit morning, paid tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of those who fought in what is often referred to as the “Forgotten War.” Against the backdrop of the monument, which stands as a solemn reminder of the county’s commitment to honoring its Veterans, Legislators spoke passionately about the significance of remembering and honoring the service of Korean War Veterans. The monument serves as a tangible symbol of gratitude and remembrance.

Legislator Nick Caracappa (C-Selden), Chair of the Veterans Committee, has prided himself on being a fierce advocate for Veterans. Caracappa delivered a heartfelt speech honoring the Veterans in attendance and expressing gratitude for their service. He was personally touched by his mother’s name being added to a plaque with veterans for her advocacy work in memory of her husband who was a Korean War veteran.

The ceremony also featured remarks from veterans who shared their personal experiences and reflections on the war. Among them was Sal Scarlato, President of the Korean War Veteran Central Long Island Chapter.

He paid tribute to those of the “forgotten war” including paying tribute to ally countries including South Korea

(631) 269-6421

and Turkey for their instrumental help at that time. Honored guests included the consulate general of Turkey and a senior honored guest from the consulate of South Korea.

As part of the ceremony, Legislators unveiled a new plaque commemorating Suffolk County residents who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War. The plaque, inscribed with the names of the fallen, serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of honoring those who gave their lives in service to their country.

In addition to the dedication ceremony, Suffolk County legislators raised awareness about the Korean War and its lasting impact on American history. Their initiatives, which include community events and outreach efforts ensure that future generations understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by Korean War veterans.

The Monument at the Dennison building, which has long served as a focal point for honoring Suffolk County Veterans, holds special significance for the community. The ceremony was moving with Taps playing at the end in remembrance of those lost in this conflict.

As the ceremony ended, attendees gathered around the monument to pay their respects and offer their gratitude to the veterans in attendance. For many, the event served as a poignant reminder of the debt owed to those who served in the Korean War and the importance of preserving their memory for future generations.

Father’s Day

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Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Let’s Hear it for the Fathers

By Peter Chidichimo Let’s face it: historically, mothers, and their associated holiday, have received more attention compared to Father’s Day. And why not? Mothers bond early with their newborns, especially where breastfeeding is involved, and who can compete with that? Also, mothers tend to take more time from work after giving birth and will likely play the larger role in their children’s early development. And when it comes to stay-at-home parenting, mothers win hands down.

However, let us not underestimate the role that fathers play. For example, according to Psychology Today, children with sensitive and supportive fathers achieve higher levels of social competence and better peer relationships, compared with nonsupportive fathers. Children whose fathers provide learning opportunities and interact with them frequently perform better in school and have more advanced language skills. Fathers can serve in these roles even when they do not live with the child.

Recent research has shifted from how father absence might affect a child’s development, to the potential effects of proximate father involvement.

For example, children who have regular, positive contact with their father tend to regulate their emotions better than children who have no contact with their father. If no father is involved, other caregivers can step in and serve those important functions.

Family structure is less important than having loving caregivers meet children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs.

Based on the above research, countries such as Norway and Sweden are endeavoring to encourage fathers and mothers equally in caregiving, by providing paternal as well as maternal leave. In general, it appears that in many countries, gender roles have become more equitable over time, and research now suggests that fathers play many important roles in child development. Such benefits include a child’s social adjustment, academic performance, and emotional maturity.

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Parental Relationship The parental relationship is also very important.

Conflict between parents is detrimental to a child’s well-being, especially if the conflict is hostile and unresolved. Supportive co-parenting relationships, by contrast, are associated with better social adaptation and fewer behavior problems in children.

Families function as “entire systems,” not just as isolated parent-child dyads.

The important thing here is parental contribution, with each parent contributing equally to a child’s well-being in different ways. Regardless of family structure, children need to have their physical needs met, but also require cognitive stimulation, and the need to feel loved and accepted. If a father or mother is not involved in the child’s life, another caregiver can serve these critical roles, but it is important for all caregivers to have support in their respective roles. This support can come from a child’s other parent, extended family, friends, or others.

According to the Institute for Research on Poverty, not only have we seen changes in the typical American family, but changes in the definition of “father” as well. Among the 72 million fathers in the United States today, there are biological fathers and stepfathers, but also men who serve in a less traditional legal or social role. Family structure can range from marriage, to cohabitation, to single parenting.

Further research demonstrates involved fathers are associated with positive effects on their children even before birth. During pregnancy, partner support is associated with fewer maternal health problems and more positive maternal and infant outcomes than among women who lack a supportive partner. A father’s supportive (or abusive) behavior can influence maternal attachment to their baby, and the quality of the partner relationship often predicts how both parents will respond to the needs of their child.

In numerous studies, positive father involvement is associated with children’s higher academic achievement, including stronger math and verbal skills. Socially, findings indicate greater emotional security, higher self-esteem, fewer behavioral problems, and greater social competence than among children who do not have caring, involved fathers. Again, the father role can be traditional or non-traditional.

Non-Resident Dads Given the decline of marriage, increase in divorce rates, and growth of nonmarital childbearing over the past half-century, many biological fathers don’t live with their children, which can reduce contact. Nevertheless, nonresident dads who have a successful coparenting relationship with their children’s mother tend to be more involved in their children’s lives. Conversely, numerous studies indicate that father absence can have negative effects on their children’s well-being. One study also found that women who had an involved father in childhood experienced fewer psychological problems as young adults than women who did not.

According to the Children’s Bureau, in early development, the relationship between the child and father can be equally as important as the child’s relationship with the mother. Early father involvement is related to positive health outcomes in infants, such as improved weight gain in preterm infants and improved breastfeeding rates.

Conversely, the absence of an involved father figure hinders development from early infancy throughout childhood and into adulthood. Unfortunately, there are psychological effects of the absence of a father figure for children that will persist through adulthood and beyond.

Gender-Specific Benefits It may be tempting to assume the father role has more of an impact on the development of boys versus girls, but actually that isn’t the case. The involvement of a father figure has unique and proven impacts on both sexes. In young boys, father engagement reduces the frequency of behavioral problems, while also decreasing delinquency and economic disadvantage in low-income families. For girls and young women, father engagement reduces psychological problems and the likelihood of depression.

While mothers are widely associated with nurturance and protection, there is evidence that fathers tend to be more involved in physical play, and that play activity is more physical and challenging than that of mothers. Fathers often encourage their children to take risks and be independent, whereas mothers typically emphasize avoiding risk and injury. A newer area of fatherhood study examines how fathers tend to encourage children “to explore, take chances, and overcome obstacles.” Naturally, there are documented cases where mothers assume that initiative.

In an ideal situation, having both a mother and a father, or at minimum, caring and competent substitutes, assists a child in obtaining a balanced and well-rounded development, whether they are male or female. According to the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), studies consistently show that while mothers and fathers have different styles of playing, engaging, and communicating with their children, both play unique but vital roles in a child’s healthy development.

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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.

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

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Biden Housing Scheme Could Ignite Another 2008 Mortgage Crisis

By Stephen Moore | AMAC Outside Contributor

Politicians in Washington have very short memories, so they repeat the same mistakes over and over.

It was only 17 years ago that the “subprime” mortgage crisis torpedoed the economy and sent the financial markets into the biggest tailspin since the Great Depression. Millions of Americans lost their jobs. One of the matches that lit that bonfire was Freddie Mac and its cousin, Fannie Mae, offering generous, taxpayerguaranteed mortgage insurance to risky borrowers on loans with low down payments.

It all blew up in the faces of the taxpayers even though the Washington experts said the chances of these mortgages going bust and taxpayers taking a loss was less than one in a thousand.

The biggest taxpayer bailouts went not to the Wall Street banks and investment companies but to Fannie and Freddie.

Here we go again. The latest scheme by the Biden administration is to encourage families to borrow more money by using the equity in their home as collateral. Home equity loans are often very risky. If prices fall, home equity can become negative. There is nearly $18 trillion in home equity, and it’s one of the largest sources of savings and ownership for American families.

Now the Biden administration wants to encourage Americans to borrow even more at a time when credit card and auto debts are at an all-time high. If homes fall in value, families could slip underwater and default — just like during the subprime crisis.

As The Wall Street Journal points out, the other “likely losers” from this scam “would be taxpayers.” The evidence is indisputable from 2008 that the mortgages that ended in default were low-down-payment and low-equity loans.

Why in the world would President Joe Biden want to go down this dangerous road again?

The obvious answer is that Biden wants to “stimulate” spending by putting more cash into the hands of consumers so they can rush and spend it before the election. They think this could be a plan that would provide extra wads of cash to homeowners at a time when Americans need to be saving and paying down debts, not spending.

The Bank of America believes this scam could result in $1.8 trillion in government-insured home equity loans. This is the homeowner equivalent of the student loan forgiveness program.

There’s another problem here. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were created to promote home ownership, not to juice government spending.

A home equity loan achieves the opposite by depleting a family’s ownership stake in a home. In other words, we now have the Biden administration encouraging Americans to have LESS home ownership.

Talk about mission creep.

The obvious question is: How in the world is this in the interests of taxpayers or the country?

It isn’t.

Almost comically, the Biden administration pledges this won’t cost taxpayers a penny. Uh huh. Just like Fannie and Freddie would never need a bailout. But oops. Then suddenly they needed some $200 billion in 2008.

This also is happening at a time when Fannie and Freddie are now insuring million-dollar homes. We don’t know many first-time homebuyers who start with a $1 million home. This is simply more debt overhang for taxpayers and a giveaway to the housing industry.

Washington is awash in debt right now, and Biden thinks America needs more of it. There must be a cheaper way to buy an election.

Stephen Moore is a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation and a senior economic advisor to Donald Trump. His latest book is: “Govzilla: How the Relentless Growth of Government Is Devouring Our Economy.”

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EXTENDED THRU JUNE 30

June 1–June 30, 2024

JUL 11–AUG 25, 2024

SEPT 12–OCT 27, 2024

July 20–August 25, 2024

20 WORD OF THE

Week

Origin: mid 16th century (as a

noun denoting an islander): from late Latin insularis, from insula ‘island’.

Source: Oxford Languages

Synonyms: limited, parochial, rigid

Bits & Pieces Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

INSULAR

SUDOKU

adjective Pronounced: in·suh·lr Definition: ignorant of or uninterested in cultures, ideas, or peoples outside one’s own experience.

Example: “The villagers led insular lives with minimal contact with the outside world.”

Antonyms: accessible, tolerant, unbiased

WORD WHEEL

This Week in History

See how many words you can create.

Must have center letter in word and can use letters more than once. 4 letter word minimum.

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June 15, 1775:

June 13, 1866:

U.S. House of representatives passes 14th Amendment (Civil Rights)

June 17, 1856:

Republican Party opens its first national convention in Philadelphia

June 18, 1928:

American aviator Amelia Earhart becomes the 1st woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean, landing at Burry Port, Wales

M I

George Washington appointed commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, the day after Congress establishes the force

June 14, 1940:

June 16, 2015:

TV personality and real estate mogul Donald Trump launches his campaign for the Republican nomination for President at Trump Tower

June 19, 1991:

Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar surrenders to police

Auschwitz concentration and extermination camp opens in Nazi controlled Poland with Polish POWs, later expanded to include civilian Jews, Roman Catholics, Gypsies and Soviet POWs (at least 1.1 million would die within its walls)

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Thursday, June 13, 2024

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Hayduk Engineering Celebrates Forty Years in Business

By Matt Meduri

The backbone of any community is its small businesses; more importantly, those that live for generations.

Hayduk Engineering recently celebrated its fortieth year in business. Started by Steve Hayduk, Sr. in 1984 in his apartment with rudimentary equipment, the firm has grown into a large space near Islip Airport and has been a staple in public-private partnerships across Suffolk County.

Hayduk team members and elected officials gathered at the office space in Ronkonkoma Wednesday afternoon.

“How fast forty years goes by,” said Hayduk, Sr. Hayduk said his inspiration to start the firm came to him in college.

“I simply wanted to get a degree in engineering and be a land surveyor. I wanted to have a little office in my home,” said Hayduk. “I worked for other engineering firms for eight years after I graduated.”

Hayduk compiled a list of clients from other engineers (noncompetitively), friends, and colleagues. He then told the story of an old colleague who found him at his new office address, only to find it was Hayduk’s apartment listed as a business suite.

“I’m so proud of where we’ve come. Nobody does anything by themselves.

Everything that I’ve done in my entire career has been a team effort, and I’ve been lucky enough to have people not just next to me, but behind me, as friends in the profession,” said Hayduk.

Majority Leader Nick Caracappa (C-Selden), Chair of the Public Works Committee, was the first to deliver remarks, saying that the Caracappa name has long been intertwined with the Hayduk name, dating back to his mother, Rose, and his brother, Joseph.

“We’re no strangers to some of the incredible projects Hayduk Engineering has done throughout Suffolk County,” said Caracappa, saying that their partnership with the County has been “instrumental.” Caracappa listed projects in which Hayduk Engineering has been involved, including Veterans monuments, such as Bald Hill, and sewage treatment plants.

“There’s a lot of pride, blood, sweat, and tears with your names on it and we’re all grateful for that,” said Caracappa. “We expect to see a whole lot more going on in the next forty years.”

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip) congratulated the firm on two decades in business, remarking on her long work experience with Hayduk. “[Then-County Executive] Bob Gaffney (R) had the foresight to have Steve Hayduk be his commissioner at the DPW. I saw Steve’s expertise, professionalism, and passion, especially when it came to forming the Veterans Commission to make sure that that incredible monument at Bald Hill got designed, built, and is standing

there for future generations,” said Carpenter. Carpenter related to Hayduk Sr.’s eventual handing down of the firm to his son, Steven Hayduk, Jr., saying she once owned a business that eventually got passed down to her son.

“This man and his company are really the personification of the American dream,” said Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches). “A person who drops out of Deer Park High School to serve in the military, comes back after being honorably discharged, graduates from Suffolk Community College, graduates from RIT, starts the business out of his apartment, and now has flourished and grown.”

Panico called the firm a “catalyst” for development and that they are a big part of the revitalization initiative in downtown Mastic Beach.

“Their work in Brookhaven Town is going to leave a lasting legacy that is going to be talked about long after we are all gone,” said Panico.

Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer (D-North Babylon) remarked that during his time in the County Legislature, his colleagues refused to confirm any of thenExecutive Gaffney’s nominees. Schaffer said he “didn’t regret” giving Hayduk his vote for Suffolk County’s DPW Commissioner.

“He has had a long-lasting impact on the future of Suffolk County with the projects that were done, with the work that was accomplished through DPW,” said Schaffer.

Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) completed the ensemble of town supervisors at Wednesday’s celebration.

“We just got finished with a $2.8 million project at Callahan’s Beach on the Long Island Sound,” said Wehrheim. “Many residents were beating us [the Smithtown Town Board] up because it wasn’t being done on a timely basis. Hayduk Engineering was there for us, and the result of that, Smithtown and Hayduk Engineering won three awards for environmental and engineering services to the town of Smithtown.”

Charlie Lefkowitz, Chairman of the Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA), wrapped remarks on Hayduk’s honor.

“I’ve worked both in the private sector and public sector with Steve and Steve Jr., and the fact is that they’re here passing the torch to the next generation. I look forward to working with Hayduk Engineering, to keep Suffolk County where it is as the greatest county in this state and one of the greatest counties in this country,” said Lefkowitz.

Following remarks, the ribbon was cut, and another forty years in business were toasted by attendees. Guests were treated to a barbecue cookout, as well as food and beverage trucks and lawn games.

Other elected officials in attendance included Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro (R-Shoreham), and Smithtown Councilman Tom Lohmann (R-Smithtown).

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Around Town Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

NYS Senate and Assembly Conclude 2024 Legislative Session Amidst Calls for Tax Relief

By Cait Crudden Credit - www.senate.gov

As the New York State Senate and Assembly wrapped up their 2024 legislative session, the absence of significant tax cuts for New Yorkers left many residents and lawmakers disappointed.

Despite calls for relief from high taxes and growing concerns about the state’s fiscal health, the session concluded without any major reductions in tax rates or significant reforms to the tax code.

The lack of tax relief comes at a time when many New Yorkers are grappling with the economic fallout from the COVID-19 Pandemic, rising inflation, and stagnant wage growth. With the cost of living continuing to rise and the state’s tax burden ranking among the highest in the nation, residents had hoped for meaningful action to ease their financial burdens and stimulate economic growth.

Lawmakers who had advocated for tax cuts and reforms expressed frustration at the lack of progress on the issue. New York State Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue), a vocal proponent of tax relief measures, criticized the session’s focus on other priorities at the expense of addressing the state’s tax burden as did his colleague, Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson Station).

“While I am pleased I helped secure record-breaking funding for our children’s schools and astounding assistance toward mental health services for adults and children, I am concerned that New Yorker’s did not receive any tax

breaks to help ease the financial burden families are facing,” remarked Assemblyman Flood in his end of session statement. He continued by stating “The priorities of the Albany Majority lack common sense and fail to address the critical concerns that keep families up at night or moving to more desirable states”.

The absence of tax cuts was particularly disappointing for small businesses, which have been struggling to recover from the economic impact of the pandemic.

Many business owners had hoped for relief from high property taxes, income taxes, and other expenses that hamper their ability to grow and create jobs.

While the session concluded without any major tax cuts, lawmakers did take some steps to address the issue of affordability in the state. Measures to provide targeted relief to low-income families, those living with mental health issues, seniors, and individuals struggling with housing costs were among the priorities addressed during the session.

As the dust settles on the 2024 legislative session, the lack of tax cuts remains a point of contention for many residents and lawmakers. With the next session after November’s election, the debate over taxes and affordability in New York is likely to continue on the campaign trail in the coming months. Voters will then have the chance to make their voices heard at the ballot box.

Senator Mattera Celebrates Eagle Scout Achievements On June 9, Senator Mario Mattera (R-St. James) was honored to recognize a distinguished group of young men who have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout after demonstrating tremendous hard work and ingenuity in their community-focused projects. The ceremony, held to celebrate these accomplishments, took place in recognition of their dedication and the positive impact they have made in their communities.

Brendan Kieran, a sophomore at Chaminade High School, made significant improvements to the basketball facilities at St. Philip and James School/parish by installing new basketball hoops and a fully lined court. He also enhanced the school’s outdoor seating by replacing broken picnic tables with new convertible ones for middle school students. Brendan’s projects not only improved the recreational facilities but also the daily lives of his peers.

Ryan Bennett, a graduating senior also from Chaminade High School, constructed a pergola over a baptismal font at St Mary’s Episcopal Church in Ronkonkoma. This new structure beautifies the church grounds and provides a peaceful gathering place for the community.

Steven Ciraolo, a junior at Smithtown East High School, contributed by installing educational signs that explain the life cycle of trees along a nature trail at Sweetbriar Nature Center. His project enhances the educational experience for all visitors, fostering a greater appreciation for environmental conservation.

Joshua H. Prew, a sophomore at St. John The Baptist Diocesan High School, focused on improving the community space at St. Philip and James Academy by clearing overgrown shrubbery and installing benches next to the outdoor basketball court, thereby creating welcoming outdoor seating areas for students.

Senator Mattera expressed his admiration for these young men, stating, “It is a privilege to recognize such remarkable young individuals who not only strive for personal growth but also seek to enrich their communities. The perseverance and creativity shown by these new Eagle Scouts are exemplary. We are all incredibly proud of Brendan, Ryan, Steven, and Joshua from Troop 7 in St. James. Their projects not only demonstrate their commitment to community service but also their ability to lead and inspire.”

Senator Mattera also took time to acknowledge the efforts of all who helped these young men on their journeys: “A heartfelt thank you goes out to the families, teachers, and all who have supported these young men on their path to becoming

Eagle Scouts. Their guidance and encouragement have been crucial to the success of these impressive projects. Congratulations to all involved.”

Senator Mario Mattera (R-St. James) has represented the Second District in the New York State Senate since 2021. The Second District contains the entire Townships of Huntington and Smithtown.

Around Town Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

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Thursday, June 13, 2024

MacArthur Airport Welcomes JetBlue as Newest Airline

soft drinks, and great customer service. From bold tailfin patterns, colorful and bright special liveries to unique plane names, customers can look forward to spotting more blue at ISP. “Today is a ‘blue-tiful’ day for our airport customers and for Long Island,” Carpenter added.

JetBlue senior leadership joined Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip), Airport Commissioner Shelley LaRose-Arken, and business and community leaders from across Long Island, to celebrate JetBlue’s announcement of nonstop air service from Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) to three popular destinations.

Beginning in October, JetBlue will operate daily service between ISP and Orlando (MCO), and four times weekly between ISP and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Palm Beach (PBI). All routes will feature JetBlue’s Airbus A320 aircraft, including 162 seats with 42 Even More® Space seats. To celebrate today’s launch, and for a limited time, travelers can take advantage of special $49 one-way fares for flights between ISP and these Florida destinations, available online only on jetblue.com.

“Our airport customers across Long Island have been expressing their clear enthusiasm for more air service at ISP, and JetBlue is consistently one of the most frequent requests,” said Supervisor Carpenter. We’ve been listening and working very hard to bring additional options to Long Island. Today’s announcement reflects our determination and active outreach as JetBlue will now serve Islip’s Long Island MacArthur Airport initially with three Florida destinations that the carrier carefully selected.”

“As New York’s Hometown Airline®, we are thrilled to bring JetBlue’s award-winning service to Long Island MacArthur Airport,” said Dave Jehn, Vice President, Network Planning

and Airline Partnerships, JetBlue. “Our decision to add nonstop flights to three popular Florida destinations is a testament to our commitment to providing customers with more convenient travel options to and from the places they most want to go.”

“We are energized by this exciting move by JetBlue to serve Long Island MacArthur Airport,” said Mitch Pally, Airport Advisory Board Chairman.

“We know Long Islanders love traveling between Florida and Long Island, and JetBlue’s decision to provide more service to three top Florida destinations reflects that opportunity.”

The JetBlue announcement caps a strong spring for Long Island MacArthur Airport. For the month of April, 2024, versus April, 2023, ISP’s air carriers increased domestic seats by 22.7%, nearly four times the U.S. domestic average of 6.3%, and more than any other commercial airport (small hub or larger) in New York and New England. (Source: OAG) “Long Island MacArthur Airport strives to provide excellent working relationships with our air carriers, low landing fees, and significant taxi time savings. Airlines are recognizing ISP as a distinct and highly desirable airport to serve New York, and customers in Nassau and Suffolk counties more and more are seeing the benefits of flying from Long Island’s convenient

About JetBlue JetBlue is New York’s Hometown Airline®, and a leading carrier in Boston, Fort LauderdaleHollywood, Los Angeles, Orlando and San Juan.

JetBlue, known for its low fares and great service, carries customers to more than 100 destinations throughout the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada and Europe. For more information and the best fares, visit jetblue.com.

About Long Island MacArthur Airport MacArthur Airport is located on Long Island, approximately 50 miles from New York City. It is the closest airport to 2.8 million Long Island residents, and to world-renowned attractions including the famous Hamptons, Wine Country, lighthouses, Fire Island, excellent theatre, award-winning restaurants, and Gatsby-era mansions. The Town of Islip owns and operates the airport, served by Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue and Southwest Airlines. Access to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) makes getting around Nassau and Suffolk counties convenient.

Train service from the Ronkonkoma / MacArthur Airport LIRR to New York City provides frequent transport. Long Island MacArthur Airport employs 6000 people directly and indirectly, with a $16M annual operating budget and an economic impact of $600M to the region and local economy.

hometown airport,” said Airport Commissioner Shelley LaRose-Arken. “These relationships and passenger preferences will become even more important in the years ahead, as we continue discussions in the community about a North Terminal providing true train-to-plane convenience from the LIRR Ronkonkoma / MacArthur Airport Station.”

Long Island Association President Matt Cohen agrees and commends the airport’s job creation, business leadership, and commitment to the community.

“MacArthur Airport continues to be a dynamic economic generator for all of Long Island, and the arrival of JetBlue just increases that important role in the future.

LIA joins Long Island MacArthur Airport in welcoming this popular airline,” said Cohen.

MacArthur Airport has completed over $100 million in planning and capital projects since 2016, including the rehabilitation of airfield taxiway and runway surfaces, a Ground Transportation Center and Walkway, a Fire Rescue Building, and is nearing completion on significant Mechanical Engineering and Plumbing capital improvements.

“These projects position the airport to be ready to welcome new carriers like JetBlue and serve our other three existing airlines and loyal customers across Long Island,” said Airport Deputy Commissioner Rob Schneider.

JetBlue – currently the sixth largest airline in the U.S. and the only major passenger airline based in New York – is known for having the most legroom in coach, live television and on-demand entertainment on every seatback, free and fast Fly-Fi broadband Internet, complimentary snacks and

Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.

Messenger Spotlight

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Paws of War Hosts

Second Annual Car Show

to Raise Money for Veterans in Need Paws of War recently hosted its second annual car show at its headquarters in Nesconset to raise money to support a local veteran in the Long Island community. The event raised more than $30,000 which will support the organization’s mission of providing a disabled Long Island veteran or first responder in need with a service dog. The car show, judged by the Fabulous 50’s and 60’s Nostalgia Car Club, included more than 250 vintage, classic and custom cars and military vehicles.

The pet friendly event also saw many attendees bring their dogs.

“Our programs at Paws of War support the mental wellbeing of the veterans and first responders here on Long Island. The money raised from the car show will further Paws of War’s mission of ‘Helping Both Ends of the Leash’ and directly fund a lifesaving companion or service dog for one of our local heroes,” said Paws of War, cofounder Robert Misseri.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community. With the support of everyone in attendance, we are able to give back to the heroes who have sacrificed so much for this country. As a volunteer, it is critical to host events like the car show to bring the community together and create meaningful relationships between the community and our heroes,” said Ray Meyer, Paws of War Volunteer and Car Show Organizer.

Service dogs focus on meeting their owner’s specific needs, providing them with peace of mind and the confidence needed to cope with PTSD and traumatic physical injuries.

Having service or companion animals has proven to be an effective way to enhance mental wellbeing and reduce veteran suicides.

Paws of War’s service dog training program is designed to train these animals to cater to their owner’s specific needs, which in turn will provide the veteran or first responder with peace of mind as they learn to cope with PTSD and other traumatic physical injuries. These animals bring comfort and joy to local heroes, which is proven to enhance their quality of life and save lives.

For more information about Paws of War and their programs, please visit, www.pawsofwar.org.

About Paws of War Paws of War is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) charitable organiza-tion that provides assistance and a wide range of programs to active, retired and disabled military members.

To learn more about Paws of War and the programs provided or to make a donation, visit its site at: http://pawsofwar.org.