Vets Kayak Across Long Island Sound in AwarenessRaising Feat
By Matt Meduri
Veterans and their advocacy and support organizations host countless events every year to raise money, awareness, and support for the issues Veterans face upon returning home.
However, an event over the weekend was truly one of significant proportions, as thirty Veterans kayaked twenty-two miles from Bridgeport, Connecticut, into the Port Jefferson Harbor, with the number twenty-two symbolic of the twentytwo Veterans who, on average, take their lives every day in the United States.
The Messenger met with a Marine Corps Veteran and Paws of War Veterans Advocate and Crisis Manager Mike Kilano, who took on the monumental challenge for the first time this year, at Steers Beach in Asharoken last month while he was preparing for the excursion.
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Supervisor Wehrheim Addresses Community Concerns Over Railyard, Bull Run
By Matt Meduri
Smithtown’s Tuesday board meeting was held at the Eugene Cannataro Senior Center in St. James due to accessibility issues at Town Hall following devastating flooding brought by remnants of Hurricane Ernesto.
The board meeting was also unusual in that Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) engaged in a question-and-answer style of interaction with residents during the public portion, during which residents are allotted three minutes of speech that usually does not constitute input from the Town Council.
For months, residents have descended on Town Hall to make the Council aware of their opposition to the proposed railyard in Kings Park, as well as the application for an assisted-living facility on the historic Bull Run Farm property in St. James.
Wehrheim brought clarity on these hot-button issues, as some residents took to the microphone to question the Council on their support or opposition for said issues.
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Wehrheim speaks to a constituent at Tuesday’s board meeting (Credit - Matt Meduri)
A Walk Towards Grace Monthly Bereavement Series
Wehrheim Addresses Community Concerns Over Railyard, Bull Run
The divergence from the typical board meeting procedure began with concerns stated by Bob Semprini, President of the Commack Community Association, who read concerns and complaints from people in his community regarding the proposed rail yard, including, but not limited to, ending support for Republicans for local office, suggesting some members of the Town Council have “been there too long” and that “it’s time for a change,” and accusations of the Town Council “hiding something.”
“There is no application [for the rail yard before the Town Council],” said Wehrheim. “I can assure that when an application does arrive at the Town of Smithtown, all of the comments about the environment, the rail coming in, the noise, the trestle collapse, will all be addressed.”
Wehrheim added that “land use professionals” will go through the conventional processes of vetting the application against all standards before the Town takes a vote on it. He also said that such information has been distributed to the local papers. The Messenger ran Supervisor Wehrheim’s letter to the public in our August 22 edition.
“We’re not land use experts,” Wehrheim said of himself and the Town Council. “But we have land use experts, and I can assure you that they will look at every single concern that every resident of Smithtown has. The comments will absolutely be considered before this board makes any decisions on moving forward, if and when there is an application.”
Wehrheim cautioned that if the Town Council “prejudges” an application, the Town will “get sued for a lot of money.”
Wehrheim referenced a smaller example of the legal jeopardy into which the Town could suddenly be thrust by describing the application for the Sonic restaurant in Nesconset across from the Smith Haven Mall.
“The residents of Country Pointe did not want the Sonic,” said Wehrheim, who was a councilman at the time. “The Board started talking about not approving it. The property owner went to court, and the court decision was that we cannot predetermine an application based on residential opposition. You have to allow them the process by law. We did, but the residents were still not happy. They appealed the decision and the homeowners association raised $30,000 on their own. They lost and the Sonic was built.”
Wehrheim invoked the cautionary tale to relay to the public that the board often cannot voice support or opposition for a project until it goes through the various independent government boards before reaching the Town Council.
Wehrheim also said that the project’s developer, Toby Carlson, has been “put through the ringer” already with regards to the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) recent approval to extend the 5,000-foot rail line for commercial use. Townline Rail Terminal, LLC proposed the line, which would run one train in and one out along the LIRR Port Jefferson line. The purpose of the railyard would be to mitigate the buildup of construction debris prompted by the end-of-year closure of the Brookhaven landfill.
“I live about 1,200 feet from that line. I’m a lifelong resident of Kings Park, and I understand everybody’s concerns. I would never do anything in my office that would destroy the community,” said Wehrheim. “There is no application at this time; I don’t know whether Mr. Carlson is putting one in or not. If the plan doesn’t work environmentally, planning-wise, or engineering-wise, then he won’t be able to build.”
A Kings Park resident thanked Wehrheim for his answers on the rail yard, but also stated that Wehrheim and the Town Council have vocally supported the project. Wehrheim countered this claim by asserting that Smithtown has only supported a plan of shipping construction debris off Long Island via rail, rather than hundreds of trucks making daily trips, not the Kings Park rail yard project specifically.
“I supported that concept, and that’s based on meetings from the supervisors association, meetings with the State DEC, and with federal officials,” said Wehrheim.
The resident’s concern also includes the shipment of ash from the landfill and the recent sale of Winter Brothers to Waste Management, a national carrier of ash and construction debris.
Wehrheim responded by saying that as plans change, the municipalities’ priorities must also change. He said that the Town of Brookhaven might be looking at a one-to-two-year extension from the State Department of Environmental
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Conservation (DEC) to continue burying ash in the Yaphank facility.
“A lot of things change, there’s a lot in motion,” said Wehrheim. “Waste Management is a multi-billion dollar conglomerate that bought up everything. Maybe there will be no market for Mr. Carlson to put a project together.”
Another Commack resident questioned the Council on hazardous waste and the Town’s oversight of such transfers, namely as it pertains to environmental concerns, stating that the “federal government doesn’t care.”
“We will have control of that [hazardous waste transfers], because the Town of Smithtown and New York State DEC, which Mr. Carlson operates under, control the Carlson property,” said Wehrheim. “They could ship in hazardous materials, but those materials would sit in a railroad car because it would violate the law to unload it into a truck on that property.”
Wehrheim also cautioned that if Toby Carlson turns the entire fifty-acre parcel into Townline Rail property, rather than Carlson Corp. property, the federal government would control the whole fifty acres thereby negating control by the town.
“We’re doing everything in our power to make sure that that doesn’t happen, because then we would have a problem,” said Wehrheim.
Wehrheim told attendees that he and the Town Council “converse about this [rail yard] every single day.”
A Fort Salonga resident took issue with Wehrheim’s aforementioned letter. The Supervisor clarified the letter was intended for “unsubstantiated rhetoric” against the Town Council over the rail yard, namely questions of how Wehrheim and the Council can “sleep at night,” or “live with themselves” over the proposal, even going as far as to imply the Council is harming children who live near the Carlson property.
“To institute that this Board, myself, or anybody sitting here, would do anything to harm the life of a child is ludicrous,” said Wehrheim. “Those comments required a response because we do everything possible to support the residents.”
Wehrheim also addressed concerns of heavy development along Old Northport Road, stating that the current slate of industrial properties was a “mistake” made by Smithtown officials in the 1950s and 1960s.
“All thirty of those properties operated illegally at one time, because the Town Board sent all the heavy industry to that location because there was nothing there,” said Wehrheim. “They then allowed subdivisions to be built right up against the industry. In my opinion, that was a mistake. We’re trying to clean up that entire corridor from Indian Head Road to Fort Salonga.”
Wehrheim mentioned plans for a Starbucks, the recently built daycare center, the solar farm, a proposed soccer academy, and an orthopedic medical center.
“Those are the things we’re trying to bring to the community as opposed to asphalt plants, brick-making facilities, and rock-crushing facilities,” said Wehrheim.
A St. James resident brought up the ongoing legal battle between the Town and the developer who has proposed an assisted-living facility at the Bull Run Farm property. The Town’s reticence on the issue has been required during litigation in federal court. The developer is seeking a special exemption for the property that, under the current Master Plan draft, never existed in the Residential zoning. The developer is suing the Town over a Fourteenth Amendment right violation against “future residents.”
“We denied that special exception, and as a result of that, the developer felt the need to sue us,” said Wehrheim. “I have every faith in our attorneys that we will fight that. There isn’t anyone on this board who supports that project.”
After their comments and conversations with Supervisor Wehrheim, residents thanked Wehrheim and the Board for their input and stated that they “felt better” about the projects now knowing the Town’s positions on some of the most controversial proposals in Smithtown this year.
Wehrheim quipped that he violated his “three-minute” rule, but felt it was necessary to allay fears and concerns of the public.
The Town of Smithtown and the Supervisor personally will make time daily for Residents who have any questions or concerns. The Town Board Meetings have a public comment period, however it is not the traditional venue for a back and forth response. Residents are encouraged to email the Town if they require answers in a timely manner. Emails are public record and Residents may request that their emails be entered into the record of any board meeting subject or agenda item.
The Smithtown Messenger is a community newspaper serving Smithtown, Kings Park, St. James, Nesconset, Hauppauge, Commack, and Stony Brook
Entered as a second class matter at the Post Office of Smithtown, NY, under act of December 28, 1879. Periodicals postage paid out of Smithtown, NY. This newspaper will not be liable for errors appearing in any advertisement beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error.
The opinions expressed in byline articles, letters and columns are those of the author and not necessarily those of Messenger Papers, Inc, its publishers or editors. Pictures submitted for publication remain property of the publisher.
Postmaster: Send address changes to Smithtown Messenger, P.O. Box 925, Smithtown, NY 11787
Long Island Life & Politics
LILP Exclusive: Think Tank Suggests Alternative to Congestion Pricing
By Steve Levy
Over the past decade, New York State leaders have imposed numerous gimmicks to keep the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) afloat: unprecedented borrowings and huge fare and tax hikes. The latest money grab is in the form of the congestion pricing proposal that was originally scheduled this spring to charge motorists for driving into Manhattan. The proposal was placed on hold by Governor Kathy Hochul, but it is widely believed she will introduce a revised version after this November’s election.
These measures will further burden New York’s taxpayers and commuters but will do nothing to solve the structural imbalance in the MTA operations.
The point is, state leaders have it wrong. The MTA doesn’t have a revenue problem. It has a SPENDING problem.
A recent report issued by our Center for Cost Effective Government suggests that the only way to prevent the ultimate collapse of MTA finances is not through congestion pricing, but rather by imposing a State-authorized financial control board which would have the authority to restructure contracts, onerous work rules, and wasteful overtime policies.
These burdensome contracts and rules and regulations within the MTA have led to significant financial stress for the authority.
• The MTA faces a budget gap of $2.5 billion in 2025 and 2026.
• Subway service delays tripled between 2012 and 2017.
• The MTA has a lower percentage of trains that arrive on time compared to other major subway systems. The MTA’s History of Inefficiencies
The following are prime examples of the MTA’s irresponsible and wasteful spending:
1. $20M Employee Lounge at Grand Central Station in 2009 (Source: NYS Senate)
2. $7M Doghouse in Dutchess County in 2009 (Source: NYS Senate)
3. At $2.5 billion per mile, construction costs of the Second Avenue Subway were 8 to 12 times more expensive than similar subway projects in Italy, Istanbul, Sweden, Paris, Berlin, and Spain. (Source: Bloomberg)
4. Engineers and Conductors Earning $283K Plus $10K/Month Pension (Source: NYS Senate)
5. 10,482 MTA workers were paid at least $100,000 annually in 2013. (Source: Empire Research Group)
6. More than 700 MTA workers earned $100,000 or more in overtime in 2023, contributing to a 9% increase in payroll costs, according to a new report by the Empire Center for Public Policy. (Source: Newsday)
7. $10,000 for shoes for Desk Workers. (Source: Newsday)
8. Underreported $500M While Seeking 2002 Fare Increase (Source: New York Times)
9. More than 1,100 employees doubled their salaries in 2023 as the agency’s overtime bill skyrocketed to nearly $1.3 billion. (Source: CBS News)
10. Excessive Staff Levels and Outsourcing: • 698 in Human Resources • 443 in Legal • $10M in Outside Legal Services • 444 in Public Relations • 359 in Accounting • 166 in Labor Relations.(Source: NYS Comptroller, 2005)
These examples are only a fraction of the mismanagement within the agency. Additional abuses include:
• Overtime Abuse: In one notable case, an employee earned $344,000 in overtime alone. Subway workers, including administrative personnel, average $155,000 annually, with some earning as much as $240,000—double the industry norm. (Source: Newsday, 2024)
• Disability Abuse at LIRR: Nearly 97% of Long Island Railroad retirees took advantage of the disability system at the height of the scandal. (Source: New York Times)
• Exorbitant Construction Costs: Railroad construction costs in New York reached an astronomical $2.6 billion per mile, compared to $170 million per mile in Atlanta. (Source: High Speed Rail Alliance)
• Mismanagement and Inefficiency: Tunnel-boring in New York employs 25 people, whereas Spain performs the same work with just nine. Seniority-based overtime practices led to inflated salaries in the latter years of employment and pension padding. (Source: NYPost, High Speed Rail Alliance)
• Misuse of Funds for Employee Salaries: In 2015, the MTA spent $9.85 billion on employee salaries, retirement, and post-employment benefits, which exceeded total revenue collections by $1 billion. (Foundation for Economic Education)
• Job Duty Restrictions: Subway cleaning workers were not even permitted to replace light bulbs in 2012, a clear illustration of inefficiencies and poor resource management. (Source: NYPost).
• Inefficient fare collection: The MTA lost an estimated $690 million in unpaid fares and tolls in 2022. (Source: Blue-Ribbon Panel Investigation)
Our analysis highlights the numerous times control boards have been implemented in various jurisdictions throughout the nation to stabilize governments that were on the verge of fiscal collapse.
• New York State law prevents the MTA from filing bankruptcy, but the state can impose a financial control board.
• Control boards have been implemented in cities and municipalities including New York City, Nassau and Erie Counties in New York; Detroit, Michigan; San Bernardino, California; Vallejo, Californian; and Stockton, California.
In the 1970s, as New York City was on the verge of fiscal collapse, the state of New York and the federal government intervened, establishing the Municipal Assistance Corporation (MAC) and imposing a Financial Control Board (FCB) to oversee the city’s financial operations. The FCB wielded broad powers, including the authority to approve or reject the city’s budget and borrowing plans, ultimately restoring fiscal discipline and rebuilding investor confidence. The potential imposition of a financial control board on the MTA reflects a similar need for oversight to ensure financial stability and to prevent history from repeating itself.
In 2003, Buffalo, the largest city in Erie County, faced a severe fiscal crisis characterized by a massive budget shortfall, compounded by an expensive new labor contract with city police and other budgetary strains. The state’s intervention led to the creation of a control board with significant oversight powers. This board had the authority to approve or disapprove budget proposals, borrowing plans, and labor contracts, and reviewed every expense over $50,000.
In 2011, Jefferson County, Alabama, filed for the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history, driven by a disastrous sewer project that pushed its debt to over $4 billion. The financial crisis of 2008 further exacerbated the situation by causing interest rates on the county’s debt to soar, making it unmanageable. In response, the county restructured its debt by issuing $1.8 billion in new debt to refinance the existing $3.2 billion sewer debt, with creditors like J.P. Morgan Chase conceding significant reductions.
The third-largest municipal bankruptcy at the time, San Bernardino, California, serves as a major example of state-led financial restructuring. When the city entered bankruptcy in 2012, it had a cash deficit of $18.2 million and a projected $45.8 million budget deficit. Declining revenues from property taxes, vehicle license fees, and redevelopment funds had severely impacted the city’s finances.
San Bernardino’s resurgence following its 2012 bankruptcy declaration highlights the transformative power of municipal bankruptcy restructuring. Exiting bankruptcy in 2017 marked the end of a prolonged financial crisis characterized by a severe cash deficit and high unemployment.
The city now boasts over $40 million in cash reserves—25% of its general fund budget—and projects a $2.5 million budget surplus for the current fiscal year, a stark contrast to the $45.8 million deficit at the time of bankruptcy. Substantial investments in infrastructure, including repaving 53 streets and enhancing key avenues, along with improvements to parks, senior centers, and tree trimming services, underscore the city’s commitment to revitalization.
In the years after Detroit declared bankruptcy, the city has experienced a significant resurgence. Detroit ultimately shed $7 billion in debt and restructured an additional $3 billion, allocating about $1.7 billion toward city improvements. The bankruptcy proceedings eliminated $7.8 billion in payments to retired workers and relieved the city of $4.3 billion in unfunded healthcare obligations and future costs. This financial reset allowed Detroit to emerge from state financial oversight and control by December 2014.
This financial stabilization was pivotal in attracting private investments, particularly in the downtown area, leading to a revitalization marked by new businesses, trendy restaurants, and upscale housing. Wall Street responded positively to these developments, upgrading Detroit’s credit rating, which, although still below investment grade, is a significant improvement from its postbankruptcy lows.
The bankruptcy allowed for the addressing of the significant underfunding in its pension funds. The gap in the city’s two pension funds, the General Retirement System (GRS) and the Police and Fire Retirement System (PFRS), amounted to $3.5 billion. Pension liabilities represented 19 percent of the $18.3 billion in total liabilities accrued by July 18, 2013, the day the city filed for bankruptcy. GRS benefits were cut by 4.5 percent, and 2.25 percent cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) were eliminated. PFRS beneficiaries had their COLAs reduced from 2.25 percent to 1 percent, avoiding steeper cuts because police and fire employees do not participate in Social Security.
CONCLUSION
Although the MTA cannot declare bankruptcy under current law, state leaders have another option: placing the MTA under the oversight of a financial control board. A financial control board would allow for the restructuring of the MTA’s contracts, its outdated work rules, and its costly spending practices. Like actions taken in other fiscally distressed municipalities, such as Detroit, financial control boards restore fiscal stability by enforcing oversight and reforming budgetary practices.
So, before the Governor and state legislative leaders once again seek more borrowings, and higher taxes and fares, they should instead concede that the structural imbalance within the MTA is so far gone that restructuring through a financial control board is the only logical solution.
The Center for Cost Effective Government is a think tank dedicated to exposing wasteful government spending and educating the public on various measures that can control taxing and spending for the purpose of creating more hospitable conditions for taxpayers and the business community. www.centerforcosteffectivegovernment.org
For more from Steve Levy and Long Island Life and Politics, visit their website at https:// lilifepolitics.com/
By Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine
Happy Grandparents’ Day
Being a grandfather has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Watching my own children become parents lends itself to more happiness than I can possibly share now. So, on behalf of myself, my wife Diane and my entire administration, I extend a happy Grandparents’ Day to all the grandparents of Suffolk County.
As within my own grandchildrens’ lives, the unconditional love you share with your grandchildren is invaluable. Grandparents are often said to “close the space between generations.”
Thinking about this statement, it’s really true. We are able to support our children in their great leap into parenthood and our grandchildren’s development. We become the bedrock of our families.
Everything old becomes new again, and a small part of that truth is us sharing our stories and our interests with our grandchildren. Reinforcing the traditions I impressed upon my own children, watching them take root in my grandchildren and then nurturing this growth is heartwarming.
Regularly, there are so many outlets to engage our grandchildren. I personally like to play board games with my grandchildren and take them to the beach. Here in Suffolk County, there is no shortage of free music events and craft fairs to enjoy. Other popular activities to share include scrap booking, storytelling, gardening music and dancing.
This September 8, enjoy Grandparents’ Day and enjoy this time with your families. It goes by too fast.
And for those 55-years and older who still have that drive, I want to share the ability to become a foster grandparent. It is the ability to share that spark and that passion another time. Foster parents receive monthly care rates, Medicaid coverage, and supportive services.
It is not so much a do-over as the ability to do-again. Old age is more a
state of mind than a physical reality. As such, we are never too old to make a difference in a child’s life.
To inquire about becoming a foster grandparent, please visit https:// suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Social-Services/Family-and-ChildrenServices.
Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) has served as Suffolk County Executive since 2024. He has previously served as a Suffolk County Legislator, Suffolk County Clerk, and Brookhaven Town Supervisor.
The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has approved the Townline Rail application for a 5,000-foot rail line onto the CarlsonCorp property in Kings Park.
During a thorough Environmental Assessment, the STB addressed questions and concerns raised by residents. Unfortunately, misinformation continues to circulate in the community. You can read the STB’s full environmental findings by scanning the QR Code below.
some of the following misconceptions about this project:
HazMat Because the Town of Smithtown and the State DEC have jurisdiction over the transloading facility and will not permit hazardous materials to be transloaded at the facility, materials such as chlorine, petroleum products, or other hazardous chemicals will not be transloaded on or off of rail cars coming in and out of Townline Rail.
Hours of Operation Loading and unloading of material will take place under our permitted hours of operation Monday through Saturday with one train per day in and out; this will not be a 24/7 facility.
Truck Traffic Transportation of sand, gravel, and other materials to the industries along Old Northport Road by rail reduces truck traffic into the area from other locations. Shipping ash and construction debris off Long Island by rail significantly reduces truck traffic on our major highways.
Environment The STB’s analysis states that with mitigation measures that we have agreed to, there will be minimal to no adverse environmental impacts (EA at pg. iii) and “no impacts on groundwater.” (EA at pg. 50)
Zoning The Town of Smithtown updated Master Plan acknowledges the history of Old Northport Road as an industrial corridor which contributes to the local economy and states this area is not for residential development.
The best option for the future
Townline Rail is an environmentally preferred alternative to trucking materials off Long Island. It will reduce emissions and traffic congestion and is recognized as a more cost-effective option to trucking. The Townline Rail Terminal will save taxpayers money, create jobs, and benefit the environment. To learn more, visit CarlsonCorp.com.
Townline Rail must now apply to the New York State DEC and the Town of Smithtown for authorization to construct the transloading facility. With this next step, we believe it is important to address
Proposed Townline Rail Terminal
We see and hear these words plastered on social media, television, and the editorial pages of newspapers every year.
But when words are repeated so often, they lose their edge, through no fault of their own, rather, the passage of time and what accompanies it.
The duty of us all now is not only to never forget what transpired twentythree years ago, but to ensure those words remain sharp in our memories and evident in our conduct.
The worst terrorist attack on our nation’s soil completely changed how our country and the world worked in a fraction of second. More importantly, it changed countless lives equally as fast, and we owe it to those fallen, those affected, and those who gave all to save others to never let the creed of “always remember” retain its bite.
September 11, 2001, was the thin veneer that transformed how we view the world, how we view each other, and how we view the fragility of life, even through the minutiae of simply boarding a train to commute to work in the morning. It was the fine line between civilization and unadulterated chaos; a relatively open nation and one constantly watching its back; peace and pure evil.
The lives forever changed, the children - who are now adults - who grew up with a parent, the sheer will of the first responders who ran into a setting unlike any they had ever likely imagined without hesitation. That’s why we should strive to never forget.
The military and governmental landscapes forever changed, the uncertainty of another attack of that caliber brewing somewhere in the world, the disregard some people today have for their country, their servicemembers, and their liberties. That’s why we should work to never forget.
To Never Forget Kudos to Supervisor Wehrheim
In light of recent controversial developments in Smithtown, the community has been understandably confused and even outraged at the prospects of some of these projects, chief among them being the Kings Park rail yard.
For those not in Smithtown, the rail yard is a proposed project that is currently not before the Smithtown Town Council. The Surface Transportation Board (STB), an independent federal agency, approved the construction of a 5,000-foot rail off the main line for commercial use. The construction of the rail yard itself has not been approved or vetted by various organizations under whose purview the proposal falls. The rail yard is seen as a viable solution to offset the closure of the Brookhaven landfill, slated for the end of this year. The alternative to shipping construction debris and ash off Long Island, besides via rail, is by trucking it off, which is assumed by many to be an unwanted burden on the already-clogged roadways of Suffolk County.
It’s not lost on us here at The Messenger, and it’s not lost on the vast majority of Americans either. At the risk of sounding hypocritical by referencing words repeated ad nauseum that they tend to lose their significance, we simply ask our readers to remember the patriotism, unity, and determination of September 12. Surely, we would never want another September 11, but we’ll take September 12 any day.
For reference, our country was somewhat intensely divided. The 2000 election was a nail-biter that pit people against each other for months, the world was reacting to new technology and new changes that made many nervous of their capabilities, and the world altogether was careening into the nascent Twenty-First Century.
It’s not that much of a different picture today, depending on who you ask, but we shouldn’t need a calamitous event to realize that we need each other to ensure our great country remains standing. We shouldn’t need the worst sights imaginable to remind us of the fragility and sanctity of life.
This year, remember that “not forgetting” is more than just saying it. Don’t let those words lose their bite, and more importantly, treat your loved ones as if your next bus ride is your last. That’s perhaps the most stark takeaway from the September 11 attacks, in that such a serene, typical Tuesday morning quickly unraveled into a nightmare of cinematic proportions.
Always remember the impact the attacks had, of course, but always remember the position you hold in others’ lives and vice versa. Those who hate us can take away buildings and even people, but they can never remove impacts and imprints left by those who care so much to retain them.
The Messenger honors all who lost and were lost in the September 11 attacks, and we especially thank and honor the first responders who sacrificed their lives or health on that day.
have provided residents with a better starting point in how to address the problem.
matches where nothing was accomplished. He quipped that he “broke his own three-minute rule,” but felt it was necessary to address concerns of the public.
We think Wehrheim’s interaction with the public in this way could serve as a turning point in the rhetoric surrounding the rail yard. We commend the actions from the Supervisor and hope that the community will consult with Town Hall on these matters as these projects progress.
That said, the residents of Smithtown, namely Kings Park and Fort Salonga, have been petrified of the idea of a rail yard in their community. While understandable, many community members have fallen prey to online rumors and unreliable information that have spurred much more outrage than was probably necessary. This isn’t to say residents didn’t act within their rights - all did, except for one who insinuated that the Town Council is intentionally trying to harm children with construction of the rail yardbut rather, more accurate information would
Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) took the liberty of interacting with speakers during Tuesday’s board meeting to address these concerns head-on, a relatively unusual approach given that speakers are given three minutes to address the Council before the next speaker is called to the microphone.
Unorthodox as it was, residents were elated to have their concerns addressed and some said they “felt better” about the rail yard after Supervisor Wehrheim set the record straight on the status of the project and allayed fears about federal government oversight.
Wehrheim referenced the former administration’s take on board meetings, which he equated to chaotic screaming
Expanding Broadband Internet is Critical for Education, Economy, Health Care and Infrastructure
By Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay
About thirty years ago, home Internet access was for a select few, but today, reliable high-speed Internet is an essential part of modern-day communication, education and economic growth. Broadband access helps us connect with others, it offers endless amounts of new information, allows businesses to prosper and so much more. We saw the true benefits of high-speed broadband during the pandemic when people worked remotely and conducted business as usual during our nation’s most unpredictable times.
Just recently, the U.S. Department of Commerce approved $664 million for New York to expand broadband to areas where it is currently lacking, also known as the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. The goal is to improve affordability and provide broadband at every residence and business in the state by 2030 and expand rural cell phone coverage every year between 2025 and 2030.
A 2021 analysis by the State Comptroller’s Office found that more than one million New York households did not have access or a subscription to home broadband services as of 2019. The report also found that New Yorkers aged 65 and older and those with low educational attainment did not have broadband subscriptions, placing these individuals at a disadvantage as they are unable to attain information and resources that are readily available to those with Internet access.
Consider the educational component alone. If you are a parent, you want what’s best for your child in terms of opportunities. Internet access allows students to have a vast amount of information and resources at their fingertips, it enables students to collaborate with their peers and teachers from different locations, and most importantly, it levels the playing field for students from underprivileged backgrounds, providing them with equal opportunities to learn and succeed.
Additionally, a Brookings Institution study found the economic outcomes of investing in broadband cannot be underestimated. Increasing access to broadband infrastructure in rural areas leads to higher property values, increased job and population growth, higher rates of new businesses and lower unemployment numbers. Broadband expansion also offers access to remote health care providers and gives people the chance to apply for
government assistance, offering those individuals a better quality of life.
The Assembly Republican Conference has been in full support of broadband expansion. Last year, Assemblyman Robert Smullen organized five rural equity forums, which in part focused on growing access to broadband and increasing cell coverage to all parts of our state. From these forums, our Conference created the Regional Broadband Expansion and Access Program (A.4686) to decentralize the current “New NY Broadband” process and allow localities to work together and design regionally based plans to ensure Internet access to every person in their designated area. As the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new “remote world,” where the economy and our health care/education systems are dependent on a reliable broadband infrastructure. We have seen New Yorkers struggle to attain reliable Internet access; our proposal would put the power back in the hands of localities that understand their own regions better than Albany-based state agencies and would increase access to remote-based employment, education and health services that are a part of the post-pandemic world.
Regardless of your location or socioeconomic status, broadband access means more opportunities for New Yorkers; more opportunities for students to succeed, for businesses to prosper and for our economy to grow. Broadband access is necessary for society to thrive.
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.
How to Show Students That Free Markets are Better than Marxism
By Steve Levy
When you’re a young and impressionable college-aged student, you have a mind of clay that can sometimes be molded to the whims of your revered elder professors. Many of these Marxist-leaning college educators preach a dogma that fits rather snuggly into a young person’s sense of idealism and altruism.
As Churchill famously said, if you are not a liberal when you’re twenty, you don’t have a heart; if you’re not a conservative at forty, you don’t have a brain. So, be skeptical when your professors preach to you that America is a horrid place, where the rich and powerful – usually meaning the white male patriarchy – exploit those of lesser means.
Not having the knowledge to counter these one-sided arguments, many young people tend to adopt this seemingly humanistic philosophy that seeks to take from the greedy and give to the poor. If only we could crush the wealthy and redistribute their income in a more socialistic fashion, everyone would be happier, say the socialist professors.
It’s hard to preach the values of capitalism to youngsters who have been ingrained with the thought that capitalists are nothing more than greedy power brokers angling for the next dollar at the expense of a poor defenseless exploited member of the working class.
The anti-Marxist elements within our society do a lousy job countering the Marxist propaganda preached primarily in our colleges, but which is now seeping more readily into our K-12 schools and the culture at large.
So, here are a few steps that Americans wanting to preserve our special status in world history can take to negate the indoctrination that our young students have endured in our academic institutions.
First and foremost, understand that words matter.
The term “capitalism” evokes images of Charles Dickens’ Tale of Two Cities or Gordon Gekko in Oliver Stone’s movie, Wall Street, proclaiming that “greed is good.” What 20-yearold wants to be part of that? Instead, we should use the terms “free market economy” and “free enterprise” to describe the American success story. Freedom is a word that’s hard to belittle.
Don’t you want the freedom to start your own business? Don’t you want the freedom to keep enough of your hard-earned money so that you can control your discretionary spending rather than surrender it to a deep state? Don’t you want the freedom to work more or less depending on your particular needs, or to invest your money in an enterprise with which you are impassioned, and be able to reap the rewards? Don’t you want the freedom to work harder to earn more to better your station in life?
As I stated in my book Solutions to America’s Problems, explain that equality, for equality’s sake, is a foolish notion. What good is having equality with everyone else if we are all equally poor? A level of inequality is certainly superior to that, especially if everyone’s piece of the pie grows as the economy is stimulated.
Take the difference between North and South Korea. Look at the two countries from a spaceship. In the evening, the north is dark, barren, and desolate. The south is thriving with light and energy.
There’s far more inequality in the south, but even the poorer folks in South Korea live better than the average North Korean citizen who lives in basic poverty.
That’s why Kamala Harris’ quest for equal outcomes as opposed to equal opportunity is so dangerous, and so un-American.
And if that doesn’t work, try this: Imagine thirty students in this class went on a boat trip, hit rough seas and got stranded on a deserted island. It makes sense that, early on, we’d try to gather fruits and farm the land and share it collectively. It would help us survive, but only at a bare sustenance.
Now imagine further that, upon exploring the island, one of our clans came upon a person who had built a big house and had cultivated an impressive working farm with advanced equipment, including hoes, tractors and an irrigation system. Imagine that he extended an offer to the stranded group. “I’ll help you grow your farm and dramatically increase your harvest by lending you some of my equipment,” the farmer said. “The only thing I ask in return is a ten percent take of the harvest. Since you will be tripling the number of crops you can grow, it will be a small price to pay.” The farmer gets wealthier, but so do all of the stranded students who, thanks to the advanced equipment loaned by the owner, can eat better and have more time for leisure. It’s a win-win for everyone. That is what capitalism – or a free market- is all about.
The collectivism of Mao’s China never worked. China allowed hundreds of millions to escape poverty because Deng Xioaping introduced a form of capitalism in the 1980s. A billion people in Asia escaped poverty over the past three decades because industrialization, international trade and capital investment flooded the continent.
And don’t forget to tell these impressionable students that Venezuela was the richest South American democracy just twenty-five years ago. Then they elected a Marxist, Hugo Chavez, who confiscated wealth and imposed an extreme form of socialism that made it one of the hemisphere’s poorest countries.
And now we have the Democratic nominee for president preaching Chavez’s policies of price controls and taxing unrealized capital gain.
If Venezuelans had the opportunity to turn back the clock and keep the communists from gaining power, they’d do it in a nanosecond. The question is: Will we learn from their failures?
And will we stop vilifying free markets and stop the trend within our schools that indoctrinate our younger generation that socialism and communism are utopian goals they should strive toward?
Steve Levy is President of Common Sense Strategies, a political consulting firm. He served as Suffolk County Executive, as a NYS Assemblyman, and host of “The Steve Levy Radio Show.” He is the author of “Solutions to America’s Problems” and “Bias in the Media.” www.SteveLevy.info, Twitter @SteveLevyNY, steve@commonsensestrategies.com
By Matt Meduri
County Legislature Faces Opposition on Non-Profit Contracts Bill
Three weeks ago, Suffolk County Legislators Trish Bergin (R-East Islip) and Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) sponsored I.R. 1687, a bill that would amend the Suffolk County Code to provide the County more oversight into the internal fiscal operations of nonprofit entities seeking County subsidies.
Bergin and Trotta were joined by Deputy Presiding Officer Steve Flotteron (R-Brightwaters), Catherine Stark (R-Riverhead), and Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue) in unveiling the measure. The Legislators argue that non-profits seeking government subsidies should have to prove their worthiness of said funds against executives’ salaries, which can often range well into six figures.
The current version of the bill would use Governor Kathy Hochul’s (D) salary - $250,000 annually - as a benchmark against which non-profits would be examined for County funds. The bill would also require disclosure of identities of individuals who make donations or gifts to non-profits. After the introduction of the bill, Legislator Trotta told The Messenger that if the legislation were to go into effect, there would be multiple pathways for examination and exemptions.
The current draft of the legislation would also not apply to hospitals.
Non-profits leaders, volunteers, and community members descended on Hauppauge during the Legislature’s Wednesday general meeting to voice their opposition.
Neil Falkenhan, an East Hampton resident and insurance advisor with Epic Brokers and Consultants, a large, national insurance brokerage, was the first to speak during the public portion.
“My understanding is that Suffolk County already imposes a cap on the administrative portion of contacts and most non-profit contracting with the County allocates only a small percentage of these allowable administrative costs to executive salaries,” said Falkenhan. “The requirements to disclose private funding sources will deter potential donors and hinder the ability to raise additional funds.”
Falkenhan also said that he finds the benchmark against Governor Hochul’s salary an “arbitrary and irrelevant metric,” stating the joint tax return filed by the Governor and her husband was close to $2 million.
“The county has processes to evaluate the overall cost and quality of services to ensure the prudent use of taxpayer dollars, the management of a contractor’s organization, including salaries, day-today operations, and the likes should be left to the contractor who knows their organization and industry the best,” said Falkenhan. “I feel that this resolution misses the mark and unfairly targets non-profit
organizations that are providing valuable public and social services to residents of Suffolk County.”
Bob Creighton, Vice Chair of Governance and Nominating on the board of directors for Family Service League, said that charitable organizations such as the one he represents “cannot provide significant contributions” to their communities “without funding from various governmental agencies.”
“The partnership between governments and the not-for-profit community has allowed for the efficient delivery of essential services that government is illequipped to deliver on its own,” said Creighton, also a corporate lawyer with Farrell Fritz Attorneys. “While not-for-profits are driven by their missions and aim to meet community needs, they are businesses and face all of the same complex issues faced by their for-profit counterparts. The not-for-profit segment employs tens of thousands of Long Islanders and provides many millions of dollars of needed services.”
Creighton added that the legislation is “unnecessary” as “adequate checks and balances are already in place.”
“Programs funded by the county are held accountable both fiscally and programmatically and are subject to audit and control by the county comptroller’s office,” said Creighton, adding that notfor-profits report “detailed financial information” on IRS Form 990. “Boards work diligently to minimize administrative costs because this statistic is so important to the donor community.”
Creighton also said that the legislation would “unfairly burden the not-for-profit community without impacting any of the other organizations that do business with the county,” with the required disclosure of donations expected to have a “chilling effect” on their ability to raise funds.
“Many donors desire to give anonymously and certainly would not want the detail of their charitable giving made public,” said Creighton.
Robert DeTour (pictured left), a retired hospital CEO and former member of the Governor’s Mental Health Council, said that he understands the Legislature’s concerns about the salaries of trustees.
“As a trustee, we want the most for our funds,” said DeTour, who said that boards consider qualifications and costs of hiring an executive.
“If contracts don’t cover it [salaries], it’s usually the trustees who pay for it,” said DeTour, who currently serves on four not-for-profit boards. “We give you a deal because our objective is to get the most experienced and qualified leadership. The boards I’m on have established a 75 percentile salary range as the ceiling because we want to be competitive,
attract and retain talent for our clients, but always be mindful of our fiduciary obligations to keep costs at a minimum and services at a maximum.”
DeTour criticized the legislation’s exemptions of hospitals receiving County subsidies, asking if “Northwell is better than the not-for-profits who run women’s shelters,” as an example.
“If you want money, rob a bank, not the corner grocery store,” said DeTour.
Interestingly, the meeting room produced a familiar face voicing opposition to the legislation: Dave Calone (D-Setauket) (pictured below), candidate for Suffolk County Executive last year.
“By eliminating qualified contract agencies that can do the job well and provide services for Suffolk County residents well, we’re reducing the number of qualified bidders on our contracts. We reduce competition for contract bidding, we drive costs up, not down,” said Calone. “If we eliminate qualified contract agencies, it may fall to the County to deliver these mission critical
services. And for the County to develop that expertise, put together the workforce needed to deliver those services, as opposed to well trained, well experienced not for profits, that will cost the county more money. It’s a more expensive way to do it, not a less expensive way to do it.”
Calone leveraged his experience in the public and private sectors, stating that executives of not-forprofits have a “very different job” than those who are in the private sector or government sector.
“Unlike in government, they don’t get pensions, so they have their retirement savings built into their salaries. Unlike in the private sector, not-for-profits are very frequently understaffed, and the executives are often wearing multiple hats, doing multiple things. It’s not just really one job, sometimes it’s many jobs that they’re doing,” said Calone.
Towards the end of the public portion, Legislator Trotta attempted to ask a question to a concerned constituent.
“The purpose of this is to give more money to the frontline workers and housing,” said Trotta to the constituent, who rebutted that the Legislators are “missing the point.” She walked away from the podium before Legislator Trotta could ask further questions.
Legislator Bergin motioned to recess the legislation for further deliberation and said it was a “work in progress.” All six Democrats on the Legislature opposed the recess: Ann Welker (D-Southampton), Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), Sam Gonzalez (D-Brentwood), Minority Leader Jason Richberg (D-West Babylon), Rebecca Sanin (D-Huntington Station), and Tom Donnelly (D-Deer Park).
I.R. 1687 was recessed in a 12-6 party-line vote.
Legislator Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) (Credit - Matt Meduri)
This Week Today
National, State and Local Temperature Checks
By Matt Meduri National
The Israel-Gaza War has reached a new height as Israel recovered the bodies of six hostages killed in Gaza last weekend. The development has led to mass unrest, with hundreds of thousands of protestors taking to Israel’s streets to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s perceived failure of securing a ceasefire deal.
The country’s largest labor union said that the “entire Israeli economy will shut down” in an effort to join the protests.
A spokesman for the military wing of Hamas, the terrorist group occupying Palestine, said that the execution of the six hostages were in response to Israels’ successful hostage rescue in Nuseirat in June. The spokesman said that the new protocols were given to Hamas terrorists to execute hostages if Israeli troops were near.
Netanyahu said on Monday that the hostages were shot in the back of the head and that Hamas would pay a “heavy price.”
The hostages include Hersh Golberg-Polin, Ori Danino, Eden Yerushalmi, Almog Sarusi, Alexander Lobanov, and Carmel Gat. Hostage Yerushalmi was seen in a prerecorded video, recorded by Hamas, in which she urged Netanyahu to broker a deal to end the war. The video is one of several similar ones recorded by Hamas, which many say are forms of psychological warfare by forcing the hostages to read the statements.
The six hostages were among the 251 taken to Gaza on October 7, when Hamas launched their initial assault on Israel’s border that killed 1,200 people.
In election news, Massachusetts held their primaries on Tuesday.
Two-term Senator Elizabeth Warren (D) was unopposed for renomination. Warren won her first term over Scott Brown (R) in 2012. Brown had won a 2010 special election in the deep-blue state that was seen as an accurate bellwether for the dire electoral year Democrats would have in November. Warren reelection in 2018 with 60% of the vote over Geoff Diehl (R).
This year, Warren faces John Deaton (R), who took 65% of the vote in the three-way Republican primary. He faces a significant uphill battle to take on Warren in one of the bluest states in the country.
The GOP is also taking a pass on most of the state’s congressional districts, as they have only run candidates in MA-08 and MA-09, the
least-Democratic leaning of them all. Democrats currently control all nine of Massachusetts’ House seats, as well as both Senate seats. Democrats are running unopposed in the seven other districts. No Republican has won a House seat from the Bay State since 1994.
The seven unopposed Democrats join a list of twenty-nine other districts without dual-party contests. Twelve Republicans and eleven Democrats are running unopposed.
State
A former aide to Governor Kathy Hochul (D) and former Governor Andrew Cuomo (D) has been arrested and charged with acting as an agent of the Chinese government.
Linda Sun, a former deputy chief of staff to Hochul and an aide to Cuomo, was charged with violating and conspiring to violate the Foreign Agents Registrations Act (FARA), which requires individuals and entities to register with the Department of Justice if they work on behalf of foreign entities while in the United States. FARA also requires individuals to disclose their relationships, activities, receipts, and disbursements with foreign entities Sun is also charged with visa fraud, alien smuggling, and money laundering conspiracy.
Sun’s husband, Chris Hu, was also charged with money laundering conspiracy, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and misusing means of identification.
The charges come after their Manhasset home was raided by the FBI in July.
Prosecutors allege that Sun, while working for the New York State government, influenced the messaging of high-level State officials on issues pertaining to relations with China. She is also accused of blocking Taiwanese government representatives from access to the State officials, as well as obtaining official New York State proclamations for Chinese government representatives without authorization.
Prosecutors have also alleged that Sun and Hu used shell companies, iCloud accounts, and WeChat messages as tools in their crimes. All messages obtained on said accounts are in Mandarin.
Defense attorneys say the charges are “inflammatory” and “overly aggressive.”
A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that he and the agency were unaware of Sun’s actions on behalf of the Chinese government, but that the country
opposes “malicious associations and slander against China.”
Sun’s professional record goes back to 2009, when she was hired as chief of staff in now-Congresswoman Grace Meng’s (D, NY-06) when Meng was in the Assembly. Then-Governor Cuomo’s administration hired Sun in 2012 as Director of Asian American Affairs. Afterwards, Sun became Director of External Affairs for Empire State Development, followed by a 2018 return to the Cuomo Administration, where she earned the title Chief Diversity Officer. She was later employed by the State Department of Financial Services.
Sun was hired as Deputy Chief of Staff when Governor Hochul assumed the State’s top job in August 2021. She put in about a year at that post before moving to Deputy Commissioner for Strategic Business at the Department of Labor.
Sun was fired from that position in March 2023, when Hochul’s office found “evidence of misconduct,” although the Governor’s office failed to elaborate, but that they were assisting law enforcement through the process.
Prosecutors say that Sun had been acting as an agent of the Chinese Communist Party, working at their behest and to advance the political interests of the CCP. The indictment also includes Sun’s efforts to obtain “unauthorized invitation letters” from the Governor’s office, which were subsequently used to aid travel of Chinese government officials into the U.S. for meeting with New York State officials.
Prosecutors also allege that Sun and her husband received substantial compensation for their work, including travel benefits, event tickets, employment for Sun’s relatives, gourmet food items, the last of which were delivered to Sun’s relatives.
One of the methods in which Sun allegedly advanced China’s international relations was by ensuring that Governor Cuomo gave praise to China for their help in the response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. She also allegedly stymied U.S. praise for Taiwan for providing 200,000 masks to New York City.
Governor Hochul says that she is “absolutely shocked” at the developments and that it was a “betrayal of trust.”
“The fact that a spy for a hostile nation was embedded at the highest levels of our state government under two administrations is an alarming security failure, jeopardizing both New York and the entire country,” said Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) in a statement.
“New York should be a beacon of freedom, a place where people flee from oppressive regimes, not a platform for spies to infiltrate our government and undermine our state and nation.”
Both Sun and Hu pleaded not guilty to all charges in federal court on Tuesday. Sun’s bond is set at $1.5 million, while Hu’s is set at $500,000. Their next court date is set for September 25.
Local
Suffolk County detectives are now reeling with an unusual case: human remains found in a suitcase.
The suitcase was discovered at 11:50a.m. on Tuesday morning in a wooded area next to 320 Nassau Road in Huntington.
The Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Officer is conducting an autopsy.
The case is somewhat similar to the Babylon case that rocked Long Island in the spring, wherein remains of two humans were found scattered around parts of Babylon Town.
To end on a brighter note, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) has announced that Smith’s Point Beach in Mastic has had its summer hours extended to September 15.
“Keeping open our most accessible county beach allows our residents to beat the heat and enjoy our amenities a little while longer,” said Romaine in a statement. Lifeguards will be on duty on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00a.m. to 5:30p.m. and parking fees will be collected from 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m.
Visit https://suffolkcountyny. gov/Departments/Parks for more information on Suffolk County Parks.
Continued from front cover
Vets Kayak Across Long Island Sound in Awareness-Raising Feat
“As a Veterans advocate, I’ve been there. I was almost part of the twenty-two a day,” Kilano told The Messenger. “Between Paws of War, who saved my life with my dog, I’ve realized there are other things you can do to clear your mind and that are therapeutic to other Veterans.”
Kilano served in the Marine Corps from 1999 to 2003 and was part of the initial invasion of Iraq in March 2003. Kilano served for five months as a radio operator and helped pave the way for U.S. forces to take Fallujah.
“When I got out, I didn’t know what to do with my life. I couldn’t sleep and I always had that need for action,” said Kilano. “I did very dangerous jobs until I had to go into a VA hospital for my PTSD-related illnesses.”
Kilano says that he experienced significant weight gain due to the complications and hospitalization, one of the problems that was remedied with a Paws of War service dog.
“Someone like me, as a Veterans Advocate, can listen to you and talk to you. I’ve been there, so if I could do it, and you’re speaking and looking at me, I know that someone else could do it as well,” said Kilano, referencing his overcoming of personal obstacles and reintegration to society.
Kilano, a resident of West Babylon, was joined in Port Jefferson Harbor by his wife of sixteen years and his four children. He’s also proud of his four cats and his rottweiler, Nova.
“Those are my lifelines; they’re why I keep pushing on,” said Kilano of his family.
Kilano says that hours of near-daily training for a couple months before the event not only allowed for physical fitness and weight loss, but a moment to enjoy the tranquility of being out on open waters.
“This is my mission away from the battlefield, whether
I’m talking to a homeless Veteran who feels like there’s no hope in his life, or driving to someone’s house to deliver a dog to benefit someone,” said Kilano.
Kilano also spoke of the cooperation and camaraderie of the mission across the Sound.
“I had a buddy in my kayak and we were struggling. We had complications with the pedals, we almost flipped over a couple of times. We had a journey within the journey itself,” said Kilano.
One of the kayakers was none other than Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (C-Rocky Point), a Marine Corps Veteran himself and current reservist.
“This year was the most kayakers we’ve had and every kayaker is a Veteran,” Lennon told The Messenger, referencing some of the many groups involved, including, but not limited to, Paws of War, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Project Nine Line, the Marine Corps League, Sail Ahead, and Suicide Awareness and Remembrance (SAR) Flag.
“There should be more awareness of these issues that are ongoing in our country. There are members I served with who took their own lives, and I think every Veteran you talk to probably knows somebody, if not multiple, unfortunately,” said Lennon, who serves as Vice Chair of the Veterans Committee. “But then we come here, we have a resource fair to make sure our Veterans, Blue Star Families, and Gold Star Families can get what they need. This is a symbol so everyone understands that we’re coming together as a Veteran community and as a community of Suffolk County.”
Frank Lombardi, one of the founders of the yearly tradition, said that Veterans are no strangers to such physically grueling challenges for the purpose of raising awareness, such as a bicycle ride from the Pentagon to Gettysburg.
“Our first year was 2016 and we’ve been building each year,” Lombardi told The Messenger. Lombardi says that his organization, Kinexion, coordinates with the Coast Guard to notify them of the kayakers. The kayakers also had a sailboat in front of them, donning an American flag, to keep the kayakers on course, including chase boats to keep them visually apparent to other boaters and to stock the kayakers with food and water during the trip.
“The trip seems tougher physically, but it’s actually tougher mentally,” said Lombardi. “You spend five, six, seven hours on a kayak and there’s really nothing to do out there, and as soon as you leave Bridgeport, Long Island never gets closer.
Legislator Lennon said that Veterans are no stranger to such types of mental exhaustion.
“In the military, you’re doing humps, you put on one hundred pounds of weight, and just walk for miles. It’s the same mentality, except you’re on the water this time,” said Lennon.
Lombardi also added that the entire event, including the resource fair, is completely volunteer-run by the Veterans’ organizations.
Well over one hundred spectators gathered to welcome the kayakers onto Port Jefferson Public Beach at around 6:00p.m., along with Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson Station), Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency Director Marcelle Leis, and a representative for Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa (C-Selden), who serves as Chair of the Veterans Committee.
The resource fair and event culminated in a well-deserved barbecue for the kayakers, as well as live music, good company, and a well-received message.
Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses Garbarino’s Bill to Improve Care for Americans with Late-Stage Breast Cancer
By Cait Crudden
In a display of bipartisan cooperation, the Problem Solvers Caucus has officially endorsed the Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act, a piece of legislation introduced by Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport) and Congresswoman Kathy Castor (D, FL-14). The bill aims to significantly improve care for Americans battling late-stage breast cancer by eliminating the current waiting periods for federal disability insurance benefits and Medicare coverage for individuals undergoing treatment for metastatic breast cancer.
The endorsement from the Problem Solvers Caucus, a group comprised of an equal number of Democratic and Republican members of Congress, highlights the urgency and importance of addressing the needs of those suffering from metastatic breast cancer. This type of breast cancer, also known as stage 4, has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body resulting in a high mortality rate, making timely and comprehensive care critical for those diagnosed.
Under current regulations, patients with metastatic breast cancer face a fivemonth waiting period before they can access Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, followed by a 24-month waiting period to receive Medicare coverage. These waiting periods can pose significant challenges for patients, who often face high medical costs and require immediate treatment to manage their condition effectively.
Congressman Garbarino’s bill seeks to eliminate these waiting periods, allowing patients to receive SSDI benefits and Medicare coverage as soon as they are diagnosed.
“In the fight against metastatic breast cancer, every day counts,” said Garbarino (R, NY-02). “The arbitrary waiting period for SSDI and Medicare coverage only increases the suffering of those battling this disease by delaying access to the health benefits they should immediately be eligible for. For some, the unspeakably short life expectancy associated with metastatic breast cancer means they may never receive their benefits. That outcome is unacceptable. That’s why I introduced this bill to waive these onerous waiting periods, relieve the potential financial burden on those with the disease, and allow them to focus on what’s important - fighting the cancer.”
The Problem Solvers Caucus’ endorsement underscores the bipartisan appeal of
the Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act. The caucus is known for promoting initiatives that can garner support across party lines, and their backing of Garbarino’s bill sends a powerful message about the importance of healthcare access.
“The Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act provides crucial support to patients and their families by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and offering vital assistance when needed,” said Congressman Nick LaLota (R, NY-01). “I am proud to co-sponsor this sensible bipartisan legislation and urge all my colleagues to join me in supporting it.”
Patient advocacy groups and cancer organizations have lauded the Problem Solvers Caucus’ decision to endorse the bill. Many have expressed gratitude for the legislative push to remove barriers to care, emphasizing that this change will improve quality of life and health outcomes for those living with the disease.
“As a cancer survivor, I know that timely access to preventative testing and treatment is critical,” said Congressman Dan Kildee (D, MI-08). “I’m proud to champion this bipartisan bill to connect those diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer with the care they need in their fight against this horrible disease.”
With the backing of the Problem Solvers Caucus, the Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act has gained new momentum. The endorsement increases the likelihood of the bill advancing through the legislative process and highlights the need for urgent action to support individuals with metastatic breast cancer.
Congressman Garbarino and his colleagues remain hopeful that the bill will continue to gain bipartisan support and ultimately be signed into law, providing much-needed relief to thousands of Americans affected by late-stage breast cancer.
By Matt Meduri
TheMessenger’s Presidential Forecast
We’ve recently unveiled our forecasts for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. At a glance, Republicans have an overwhelming chance of taking control of the Senate, via a virtual lock on flipping West Virginia and momentum on their side in Montana to oust three-term Senator Jon Tester (D). Races in Ohio, Michigan, and Nevada are pure toss ups, while Democrats only have long-shot odds of ousting Republicans in Texas and Florida. We favor Republicans to gain control of the Senate with 51 seats, current odds in mind.
In the race for the House, we rate 217 seats as at least “tilting” towards the GOP. 218 is required for a majority. Democrats are not far behind at 200 seats in their favor. 18 seats remain as toss ups in our eyes. If the national environment is close, which is highly likely in favor of either party, the GOP should be able to grab some crossover appeal in more moderate districts to retain control of the lower chamber. We will provide more updates on the Congressional races as Election Day draws near.
But since we’ve passed Labor Day - happy belated to all of our readers - that means we’re fully on the campaign trail. And with that, we’ll unveil our initial forecast for the presidential race.
Former President Donald Trump (R-FL) is the first Republican nominee in history to receive three consecutive nominations for the White House. He has swapped his 2016 and 2020 running mate in Governor Mike Pence (R-IN) for political newcomer Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH), who was first elected in 2022. The Trump-Vance team faces perhaps the greatest boomerang in modern politics in the form of the midsummer ticket-switch from the Democrats. The Party of Jackson wrapped up its business in Chicago last week, setting the stage for Vice President Kamala Harris (D-CA) and Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) to defend the policies and platform of Joe Biden (D-DE).
Had we released an initial forecast when Biden was still on the ticket, it would have looked a lot more favorable for a large Trump win, or even a landslide. This was mostly due to Biden’s hemorrhaging in state and national polls in nearly all of the battlegrounds and some deep-blue ones as well. Harris seems to have regained control of the ship in terms of polling among demographics tantamount to a Democratic win: young voters, minority voters, and Independents. At the time, Trump was favored to sweep all or most of the battlegrounds, while Biden and company looked likely to play only defense this year.
The presidential landscape changed even more drastically with the suspension of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and his subsequent endorsement of Trump. It’s hard to tell exactly what effect that will have on the overall electorate, but if Trump stands to gain just a couple of percentage points of RFK support into his corner, it could make a massive difference in a close race.
We’ve discussed this in our Civics 101 column (page 14) before, but we’ll give a brief overview of the Electoral College. States’ congressional districts represent the population proportionately. California has the most districts - fifty-two - and six states are tied with just one district. These districts constitute the U.S. House. The Senate, on the other hand, represents states equally; each one sends two
Senators to Washington, regardless of population. A state’s number of electoral votes is determined by the combination of these two numbers. New York has twenty-six congressional districts and two Senators, giving it twenty-eight electoral votes.
Safe: These states are highly unlikely to become competitive and one party has significant odds to win them.
Likely: One party has several distinct advantages, but the state has potential to become engaged or see a thinner-than-usual margin.
Leans: One party has a certain set of advantages, but the race is certainly considered competitive. Upsets are not out of the question here.
Tilts: One party has a slight enough advantage that cannot be overlooked in the analysis of the horse race. These states are certain to remain competitive until Election Day.
Toss Up: No party has a distinct advantage. These states will decide the next president. Electoral votes for each state are denoted in parentheses.
The Toss Ups
ARIZONA (11): Once a Republican stronghold of the Southwest, Arizona has now become one of the most competitive states on every level. The Phoenix-metro area is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, and it is clearly demonstrated on the urban sprawl’s influence on state politics. Democrats had only won the Copper State once since Harry Truman (D-MO) in 1948. That was in 1996 when Bill Clinton (D-AR) carried the state over Bob Dole (R-KS), while also losing Phoenix’s Maricopa County. Biden ended the streak in 2020 and now both campaigns are heavily engaged. Not that long ago, Republicans held almost every statewide office here. Now, Democrats have both U.S. Senate seats, the governor’s office, and marginal majorities in the state legislature.
Trump’s strategy in Arizona is to campaign to Latino voters, who ideologically seem more at home in the modern GOP as opposed to the modern Democratic Party, a group among whom Trump has seen some tectonic shifts in polling throughout the year. The border crisis is certainly going to hit
home to many in the Copper State.
Harris’s strategy is campaigning to younger, more progressive voters. Arizona’s urban centers are full of them, especially as Tucson and Phoenix continue to grow as transitory communities, those with relatively low full-time residency.
Georgia (16):
The Peach State was another shocker in 2020, as Biden became the first Democrat to carry Georgia since Clinton in 1992. Before that, Georgia had not been carried by a Democrat since native son Jimmy Carter (D-GA) in his landslide loss to Ronald Reagan (R-CA) in 1980. Georgia’s shifting political moods stem from the explosion of growth in the Atlantametro area and highly politically active blocs of minority voters. Georgia is also experiencing a “tale of two states,” where intensely conservative exurbs are now battling with progressive-leaning suburbs and urban areas.
Trump’s strategy here is to campaign to black voters who were soft on Biden. Trump had been registering as high as 30% black support nationwide, a historically lopsided figure that would virtually end Democrats’ presidential prospects should such statistics become perennial. Campaigning with RFK and possibly former Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (I) could help bridge a valuable gap with moderates who can’t stomach Trump but don’t want four more years of Biden.
Harris’ strategy in Georgia is to march straight into Atlanta and galvanize black and suburban voters. 2020 proved that the political scales in Georgia don’t require much pressure to tip. Harris would have to reconcile every ounce of support Biden had four years ago, which might be a tall task in such a competitive state that still has an intrinsic Republican lean. If Harris were to lose any states of the Biden coalition, Georgia is our first bet. RealClearPolitics
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2024 Election is No Better Than a Coin Toss
Continued from previous page
MICHIGAN (15):
The Rust Belt giant gained a much-needed political shift in 2016, when Trump became the first Republican to win the Wolverine State since George H. W. Bush (R-TX) in 1988. His win, although razorthin, proved that the GOP could in fact break the “blue wall” and that a populist message could still win, despite the shoe being on the other political foot. Michigan is dominated by deep-blue Detroit, unionized, blue-collar cities along Lake Huron, such as Saginaw, Bay City, Midland, and Flint, and Grand Rapids to the west. These areas proved pivotal to a Trump win in 2016 and a close margin four years later. Trump held historically large and long leads in the polls against Biden, but the race has become much more dynamic since Harris became the nominee.
Trump’s strategy is to repeat his 2016 formula of campaigning to working-class voters who feel both parties have long forgotten them. Frequent campaign stops in the aforementioned workingclass cities will be his key to success, as well as promising revitalization in the Detroit-metro area. However, a key part of his 2016 success is largely out of his control: lack of enthusiasm for Hillary Clinton (D-NY). Had just a few thousand more Democrats gone to the polls in 2016, Michigan would have never flipped.
Harris’ strategy in Michigan plays out more like a minefield than a campaign blitz. While large unions have not yet endorsed a candidate, Harris might be experiencing a honeymoon effect in Michigan perhaps more severe than in other states. Michigan was the only Rust Belt state where Trump had aggregate leads of more than five points - a large margin for a Republican in a generationallyDemocratic state. Harris might face several tough working-class crowds in defending the last four years of “Bidenomics.” Additionally, she has the growing rift between the Democratic Party and the Arab-American community, which has a significant presence in Michigan. The primary results were brutal for Biden, as more than 100,000 voters marked their ballots for “Uncommitted” delegates in a protest vote due to his stance on the IsraelGaza War. Those groups have made it clear they’re not finished protesting the top of the ticket, which will be decisive in a state like Michigan.
Nebraska’s Second Congressional District (1): Only worth one electoral vote, NE-02 is a unique demonstration of how just one electoral vote can go a long way. Nebraska and Maine are the only two states that award electoral votes based on the popular vote winner in each congressional district. The popular vote-winner of the statewide vote in Nebraska gets two electoral votes. NE-01 and NE-03 are safely Republican districts, giving Trump four from the Cornhusker State. NE-02 is based solely around Omaha and its suburbs. A fairly conservative city that has trended blue in the last few elections, Omaha has been able to receive national attention, especially in close races. Obama was the first presidential nominee to cause an electoral vote split in Nebraska in 2008. Trump retained NE-02 in 2016, but lost it in 2020.
Trump’s strategy is to play into manufacturing and energy. Nebraska has large oil, natural gas, and agriculture industries, all tied together by trains. North Platte, although on the other side of the state, is home to the largest trainyard in the world.
Harris’ strategy would be to play just to Omaha’s somewhat younger, up-and-coming generation of voters. Downtown Omaha is home to forms of nightlife with slightly progressive overtones.
Regardless of strategy, if either candidate is spotted in Omaha in the closing days of the campaign, it means we’re in for a tight race, as one electoral vote not overlooked by either campaign means they’re not taking any chances in an election that could go either way.
in 2020, but it now emerges as perhaps the best pickup opportunity of Rust Belt. Pennsylvania is a heavily-working class state, where the political geography has changed significantly over the last twenty years. Central Pennsylvania is intensely Republican, while the GOP has made inroads in blue-collar communities like the suburbs of Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre, a coal-mining town just south of Scranton. Pennsylvania’s statewide races are dominated by the clout of deepblue Philadelphia, while a few swing counties throughout the state serve as landing strips for almost any campaign: Erie (northwestern PA), Centre (central PA), Dauphin (south central PA), and Bucks (eastern PA).
Nevada has been a white whale for Republicans for the last few cycles. After having not backed a Democrat since 1964, Nevada backed Clinton in 1992 and 1996 and has been a swing state ever since. The GOP hasn’t been able to capture the state since George W. Bush (R-TX) in 2004, with 2016 and 2020 delivering near-identical close margins. Nevada is a difficult state to prognosticate: the heavy entertainment industry makes for a much more transient population, ruby-red desert counties have difficult counterbalancing the uberliberal ski towns near Lake Tahoe, and it’s the only regularly-competitive state where Republicans are overestimated in the polls.
Nevada only has two competitive counties: Clark (Las Vegas) and Washoe (Reno). The former hasn’t backed a Republican nominee since 1988 and the latter since 2004.
Trump’s strategy is campaigning largely against the COVID lockdowns and subsequent business restrictions. While we’re completely out of the pandemic at this point, the state’s entertainment industry felt passionate enough to oust Governor Steve Sisolak (D) in 2022 over the issue. Latino voters and border security will also be tantamount a Trump win here. Nevada’s status as a western state gives it a historically-Libertarian mindset, one that might allow for the de facto Trump-Kennedy fusion display to court the middle.
Harris’ strategy is campaigning to minority voters and younger voters. Both campaigns will be relegated to Las Vegas and Reno, which plays out well for Harris, as both are moderatelyblue counties. Harris’ proposed tax increases on business and future capital gains might not resonate with a state built more on business than on colleges and universities. Harris will need to galvanize as much young support as possible, while also staying on message in the state’s fulltime communities.
PENNSYLVANIA (19):
The Keystone State was another member of the Bush, Sr., coalition of 1988 that Trump was able to flip in an upset in 2016. He narrowly lost the state
Trump’s strategy would entail heavy workingclass messaging, especially on the steel and coal industries outside two decently-blue cities on opposing ends of the state: Scranton and Pittsburgh. Out-of-control crime in Philadelphia could also be used as a campaign platform, although more of such control would come down to the municipality. Trump will also need to hit those prime swing counties across the state to pull together a decent coalition of supporters.
Harris’ strategy would be to campaign in the urban areas and ensure turnout stays at 2020 levels. Any slip in enthusiasm means handing Trump Pennsylvania and likely the election.
WISCONSIN (10):
Trump’s win here in 2016 was perhaps the biggest upset of the night, as the campaign had only moderately contended the state, while Hillary Clinton did not once visit the Badger State after the convention. After a razor-thin Biden win, Wisconsin will likely remain a toss up until Election Day. Anchored by Madison and Milwaukee, Democrats start with a decent floor, but the mass exodus of blue-collar workers, namely in the state’s famous dairy industry, means a large chasm in support for Democrats. Republicans also have a geographical advantage over Democrats, in that they’re concentrated all throughout the state, while Democrats are only tightly concentrated in the two urban areas.
Trump’s strategy will consist of his Rust Belt marketing: job creation, union endorsements, and industry-friendly policies. His 2016 win of campaigning to a “forgotten” group of Middle America might still resonate, but the shine of that message might not be as prominent as Democrats in 2020 were sure not to repeat Clinton’s 2016 mistakes, and are sparing no expenses this year either.
Harris’ strategy will require her presence in the state’s urban areas and will need to ensure that moderates are courted into her campaign and every Democrat in the state gets out to vote.
We’ll explore the other states in our forecast in a later column.
RealClearPolitics average: Harris +8
FiveThirtyEight average: Harris +6
NEVADA (6):
Thursday, September 5, 2024
The Necessary Standard for American Education
The Federal Election Commission
By Matt Meduri
We find ourselves at the official-unofficial start of the campaign season, which lends itself to an appropriate topic: The Federal Election Commission (FEC). The FEC is an independent agency of the U.S. government and is charged with enforcing U.S. campaign finance laws and overseeing federal U.S. elections. Its responsibilities are described as: “to disclose campaign finance information, to enforce the provisions of the law such as the limits and prohibitions on contributions, and to oversee the public funding of Presidential elections.”
History
The need for campaign finance reform and an independent regulatory agency was identified by President Theodore Roosevelt (R-NY) in 1905. Numerous legislative actions were taken between 1907 and 1966, with most of those actions resulting in their repeal. The FEC was formed in 1974, pursuant to the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA), where lawmakers identified the need for a body to enforce and regulate campaign finance law. At the time, its six-member panel was appointed by both chambers of Congress and the president. Two were selected by the president pro tempore of the Senate, two by the Speaker of the House - each with recommendations from the chambers’ minority and majority leaders - as well as two by the president.
However, the 1976 Supreme Court decision in Buckley v. Valeo found that the FEC Commissioners were “Officers of the United States” under the Appointments Clause of the U.S. Constitution, requiring the president to nominate commissioners and the Senate to confirm them, exactly how most presidential Cabinet members are confirmed.
In 2002, Congress passed the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA), which banned national parties from raising and spending soft money, added restrictions on advertisements on issues, and increased federal contribution limits.
In 2010, campaign finance laws received another massive overhaul in the form of Supreme Court cases Citizens United v. FEC and SpeechNow.org v. FEC. The ruling in the former case allowed corporations and unions to fund ads created independently from the campaign, while the latter ruling allowed the formation of Super Political Action Committees (PACs).
In 2012, McCutcheon v. FEC struck down limitations on individual contributions, no longer relegating individual donors to a set amount of candidates and parties to whom they could contribute in an election cycle.
Composition
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.
collectively at least $100,000. Candidates must also agree to limit spending primary elections combined to $10 million plus the difference in the price index. Candidates must also limit campaign spending in each state to $200,000 plus the difference in price index, or to a specified amount based on the number of voting-age individuals in the state, whichever is greater. State limits in 2024 range from the lowest in Wyoming - $1.2 million - to California$30.1 million.
This is just one of the programs that the FEC administers, monitors, regulates, and investigates (if necessary).
The FEC also submits its reports on how much federal campaigns have raised and spent. Donors who give more than $200 each have their names, addresses, employers, and job titles logged in said reports. The database goes back to 1980.
The FEC is also the de facto starting point for federal campaigns, president, House, and Senate. The commission requires that a candidate report his or her finances once he or she has raised or spent $5,000 for the purpose of the campaign. The candidate then has fifteen days to register with the FEC and designate an official campaign committee to monitor funds and expenditures for the campaign. Committees must have an official treasurer and cannot support any candidate besides the one for whom it is registered
Candidates then submit detailed financial reports to the FEC every quarter. Such reports are publicly available on the FEC’s website and are often used as tools in prognosticating a candidate’s potential electoral success.
Each commissioner serves a six-year term, but each term ends on April 30. Term limits are attached to the seat rather than the incumbent. The terms are staggered; thus, two commissioners are appointed every two years. The Chair of the commissioner rotates on a yearly basis, with no commissioner serving as chair more than one during a six-year term. Commissioners may serve more than once as chair if they serve beyond their term and no successor is appointed. Commissioners continue to serve their terms until a replacement is confirmed. This is to ensure a quorum of commissioners, as a body as small as the FEC could be kneecapped if Congress were to intentionally or unintentionally delay a president’s nominee.
By law, no more than three commissioners can represent the same political party. Also by law, four votes is considered a quorum and is required for any official action of the commission. The purpose of this feature is to prevent partisan control of what’s intended to be an independent body. The commission meets in closed sessions to discuss information that are legally required to remain confidential. Meetings that are held to develop policy and/ or vote on legal and administrative matters are public.
Sean J. Cooksey (R) has served as Chair of the FEC since January 1, 2024. He was appointed in 2020 by Donald Trump (R-FL). Appointed to fill the 2018 resignation of Lee E. Goodman, Cooksey’s term expired in 2021. A replacement’s term would expire April 30, 2027.
Ellen Weintraub (D) serves as Vice Chair and has served as a commissioner since December 9, 2002, appointed by George Bush (R-TX). Her term expired in 2007. A replacement’s term would expire in 2025.
Trump appointed three other commissioners: James E. Trainor III (R), Shana M. Broussard (D), and Allen Dickerson (R). All were appointed between June and December 2020 and the former two commissioners’ terms have expired as of 2023. Their replacements’ terms would expire in 2029. Dickerson’s term expires in 2025.
Joe Biden’s (D-DE) only appointment to the FEC comes in the form of Dara Lindenbaum (D). She was appointed in 2022 and her term expires in 2027.
Oversight
The FEC enforces federal campaign finance laws, limitations and prohibitions on contributions and expenditures, the reporting system for campaign finance disclosure, investigates and prosecutes violations, audits campaigns, and administers public funds for presidential elections.
Under the presidential public funding program, eligible candidates can receive federal funds to pay for qualified expenses of their primary and general election campaigns. Tax dollars match the first $250 of each contribution from individuals that a candidate receives during the primary and funds a major party’s nominee’s general election campaign.
An eligible candidate is one who has raised more than $5,000 in at least twenty states -
The FEC’s oversight also extends to much smaller matters that might set precedent for the future. In 2018, Liuba Grechen Shirley (D-Amityville) ran against then-Congressman Peter King (R-Seaford) in NY-02, now represented by Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport). Grechen Shirley used campaign funds to pay a caregiver for her two young children. The FEC ruled that candidates can use campaign funds for childcare costs as a result of time spent campaigning. Grechen Shirley became the first woman to receive approval to spend campaign funds on childcare.
Deadlocks
The commission has been heavily criticized for its alarminglyhigh rate of deadlocks. As an evenly-divided board in terms of numbers and partisanship, the FEC can deadlock relatively easily, and since a four-vote minimum is required to permit action by the commission, some items and initiatives can simply die on the table. From 2008 to 2014, the FEC had a 14% deadlock rate, accounting for over 200 tie votes.
A famous example of FEC deadlocks include the 2021 inquiry over Donald Trump’s payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels and whether the payment violated federal campaign laws during the 2016 presidential election. The 2-2 decision by the FEC, evenly-divided between Democrats and Republicans, produced no further action, resulting in a closed inquiry. Allen Dickerson, then Vice Chairman, recused himself, and Independent Commissioner Steven Walther did not vote.
More recently, the FEC deadlocked over a June 2023 request to create guidelines for campaign advertisements using content generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The vote failed in a 3-3 tie, with Republicans voting against the request and Democrats voting for it. Commissioner Dickerson argued that the FEC did not have the authority to regulate AIgenerated advertisements.
Further Criticisms
Apart from its tendency to deadlock with no other recourse, the FEC has faced additional forms of criticism over the years.
Some have accused the commission of capitulating to regulatory capture, in which a regulatory agency falls to the interests of those whom it is supposed to regulate, mainly by acting as an arm of parties, politicians, and interest groups through its rulings. The bipartisan structure of the committee has also earned it accusations of being “toothless,” further substantiated by deadlocks with little to no forms of appeal.
Another criticism of the FEC is more endemic to the short time spans for which campaigns last, rather the actions or inactions of the commission. Based on its Congress-approved structure, the FEC must follow certain steps and procedures when investigating a complaint. Defendants must respond to the complaints, the FEC must heavily investigate and analyze the complaint, followed by legal procedures if necessary. The time it takes for the FEC to conduct its business usually well elapses the duration of the campaign. Should a candidate under investigation by the FEC win his or her election and assume the seat, the FEC’s work will likely be done long after said candidate is seated.
The FEC has also been criticized for potential First Amendment right violations. The FEC’s role in this became prominent towards the end of the Obama Administration, in which the FEC deadlocked on votes to regulate social media platforms used for political speech. Additionally, the FEC deadlocked on a vote whether to punish Fox News for its selection criteria it used in an August 2015 Republican primary debate. FEC Democrats reacted to the network’s decision of dividing the historically large field of Republicans into two debates, with the low-polling candidates debating in a separate program. The complaint was filed by Mark Everson (R-MN), a dark-horse candidate for president that year who was not invited to said debate. He claimed those changes were effectively an illegal corporate contribution to the high-polling candidates.
Nathan Dean and The Damn Band Return to Smithtown with End-of-Summer Concert
Nathan Dean and The Damn Band returned to Smithtown for an unforgettable end-of-summer country music concert at Callahans Beach. On Saturday, August 24, the parking lot and campgrounds were transformed into an outdoor concert venue, as Nathan Dean and The Damn Band made Smithtown the last stop on their coast-to-coast Unsupervised Tour. The free concert was sponsored by Cosentino Companies and organized by David Capo in conjunction with Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park), the Town Council, the Parks Department, and Public Safety. Local families packed the parking lot with tailgate-style picnic setups, while residents wishing to be closer to the band set up beach chairs and blankets to enjoy the live performance. The show was emceed by David Capo.
“We were ecstatic when we learned that Nathan Dean and The Damn Band wanted to return to Smithtown.
We were doubly blessed when Cosentino Companies generously agreed to sponsor the cost of the event for the second year running, so the community could enjoy a great show absolutely free,” said Supervisor Wehrheim. “I’d also like to thank and acknowledge David Capo, who originally introduced us to the band, in addition to the Parks Department, Public Safety, and local foodie favorites Ralph’s Famous Ices and Philly Pretzel Factory. This band is the real deal. They had us all dancing under the stars as the sun set on our gorgeous newly-renovated Callahans Beach. Kids were playing in the new playground area, while friends found a great spot up by the campgrounds. It was a much-needed break after dealing with a week of cleanup and storm damage. Everyone had a blast, and I look forward to planning their return next summer.”
Bill
Drums and Backup Vocals
Chris Duke: Bass
Founded in Arizona in 2005, Nathan Dean and The Damn Band are a prime example of hard work paying off. Playing well over 200 shows a year and regularly touring across the country they’ve gone from a weekend warrior bar band to a high energy, crowd pleasing, headlining band, thanks mostly to their drive and their incredible fan base. From catchy and heartfelt originals to country/rock and pop favorites, once you see a show you’ll understand why they’re one of the most sought-after bands on the touring scene right now. They’ve shared the stage with artists like Dylan Scott, LOCASH, Big and Rich, Cody Johnson, Randy Rogers Band, Diamond Rio, Eric Church, and countless others. They were recently nominated for three Josie awards in 2021 for Entertainer, Artist, and Group of the year.
Town Approves Speed Limit Change, Working with Huntington to Restrict Truck Traffic
By Matt Meduri
The Smithtown Town Council voted 5-0 at their Tuesday Town Council meeting to authorize an amendment to the Uniform Traffic Code to change speed limits on a section of Town Line Road in Commack.
The section of road stretches from Commack High School and North Ridge Elementary, about 230 feet south of Scholar Lane, north towards the intersection of Marshmallow Drive and Cornflower Lane. The change reduces the speed limit to twenty miles per hour in the extended area for the designated school zone.
The change comes at the request of the Commack Civic Association, who notified Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) and the Town Council of frequent speeding. With the school year approaching, the civic association asked to make the school zone safer for school children. Smithtown Traffic Safety will install new signage within a week of the change, a Town spokesperson told The Messenger. The spokesperson also said that there will likely be a grace period for drivers to become accustomed to the changes, but that the Suffolk County Police Department will be contacted to patrol the area and enforce the new limit.
Civic groups along Town Line Road also requested that tractor-trailer traffic be restricted from the road. Since Town Line Road is split between Smithtown and Huntington, the Town Council will have to await action from Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth (R-Lloyd Harbor) and the respective Town Board.
Supervisor Wehrheim stated at Tuesday’s meeting that Huntington is “amicable” to the traffic restrictions.
About Nathan Dean and The Damn Band
Nathan Dean: Lead Singer and Guitar
Jason Judd: Lead Guitar and Backup Vocals
Bogan:
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
By Diane Caudullo
Whether it be refreshing water, carbonated soda, or a cold, crisp beer, having it come in a one-serving size is both a convenience and a luxury that we have grown very accustomed to.
But it comes at a cost.
So many individual bottles and cans, both plastic and glass, go from serving its very useful purpose to tossed garbage in minutes flat, and in our very disposable world mindset, we toss and go.
Turning Trash into Treasure!
To be fair, when single-use bottles and cans were introduced, they solved some problems that the beverage manufacturers were having. From initial glass and stoneware (late 1800s) that were rinse and reuse, to aluminum cans that have changed in their material composition, manufacturing process, and environmental impact over the many years, and finally the invention of the plastic bottle (early 1970s) to continue striving for lightweight and disposable containers.
However, the current use of all of the above methods, in such massive quantities, (minus the stoneware) has now just become a different problem: what to do with them all. They obviously can be recycled but they can’t without action from us.
Hopefully, you have been following my Redemption Journey. Yes - it’s a thing! (or possibly an obsession). I decided I could turn my usually discarded-at-the-curb recyclables into diapers for young mothers in my area. Again, I hope this is something you have been following, but a content writer and paper deliverer here at The Messenger, PJ Balzer, and a bit of a hometown hero in the Shirley-Mastic-Moriches area makes sure that those who might be struggling a bit making ends meet have what they need. He and his wife Catherine Gutierrez focus especially on moms trying to afford diapers and formula for their babies and food for young children.
It’s just so easy to do. I quickly bypassed the $10 and the $20 mark with ease, set my sights on $50, and wrote an article or two about it. We had wonderful people donate their cans and bottles and I told Miles at One Earth Recycling to add it to my account.
We’d also like to give a huge shout out to Joseph Markowski and Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue). This past week, I had the pleasure of sending PJ $175.00 all from a few people handing bags of recyclables to Miles instead of leaving at the curb.
This is only the beginning. This journey will continue and it is my hope that more and more people will join in. We will nickname it the Diaper Brigade so no one has to remember my last name, although the original article might just be hanging on the wall inside the store as a reminder. Just hand in your recyclables - and have them label the bag for diapers! (Pictured above left) is PJ with some of the diapers he was able to buy with the money. He keeps different brands and sizes on hand and people know they can call on him when they are in a pinch.
Senator Dean Murray was visiting One Earth Deposits to take a tour of the business (pictured above). He is working on legislation to improve and expand how we are handling our recyclables. The Messenger will bring that information to you as it develops. Senator Murray had said he would add to our collection, so PJ and I made it a point to be there as well for a few reasons: to take the tour with the Senator and start hearing his ideas, to thank him for his generous donation, to truly thank Miles for making it so easy to do this and for having real concern for our environment, and last, to report back to you all about PJ and his new collection of diapers.
Miles of One Earth Deposits also accepts the plastic wrap that all the cans and bottles come in - there is no money for that but if he collects enough of it he can have it turned into a park bench. This would be a great civic project for any organization. He also accepts regular household batteries. Not everyone realizes this, but you should not be throwing
By PJ Balzer
Refocusing on What’s Important
Now that summer is a thing of the past, life slows down on a little on our island. The summer months are filled with hustle and bustle, packed beaches, and extended weekends. The autumn months tend to be a little slower, spent at fall football and soccer games, sitting around bonfires, and figuring out what to do with all of the apples we picked at the orchard. Soon it will start getting dark earlier and we will spend more time at home.
The fall is usually the season I do a little more reflecting on my life, taking some honest inventory in how I’m spending my time and where I’m investing my talents. I used to live a really fast life, as many of us do in New York. “Slow down a little” is almost a blasphemous statement for us. For nearly ten years of my life, I lived in New York City. The epicenter of the entire globe of commerce, opportunity, networking, fashion and fame. Like Jay-Z said, “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.”
In those ten years, I had a roommate for most of them who was a friend of mine from my late teens and twenties. He used to frequent a barber shop I worked in at the time and was a friend of my friends. We ended up clicking and hanging out a lot, pretty much daily.
He was originally from College Point but moved out to Mastic with his elderly mother to finish high school. His mom had him well into her forties, he never once mentioned anything about his dad. He was always eager to move back to Queens so after I graduated from Hofstra and was willing to give an honest attempt at a job in big city corporate America. We moved into a nice two-bedroom apartment in up-and-coming Astoria.
One day, he ran through the door early from work in a total anxious frenzy, not knowing what to do with himself. Corporate didn’t work out for me too long, so I was home all day and worked in the night clubs until early in the morning. His work schedule was just the opposite though so something was
definitely wrong. “My mom fell and isn’t doing good,” he said. She was well into her seventies at this point.
A few days later, she passed away. Even though she was older, it was relatively sudden and unexpected.
His family was poor. They were able to afford one Friday viewing for her wake, a burial the following day and a humble dinner at his sister’s house after. My friend offered to drive us both out to the island since I had given up my car after moving to Queens. My response to him was, “I make most of my money on Friday and Saturday night. I can’t make it with such short notice.”
Our relationship was never the same after that and rightfully so. His mother’s passing brought to the surface the quality of a friend that I truly was or wasn’t. I was the friend too busy uping the amount in my Chase bank account to make it to your mother’s funeral.
Since then, I’ve seen fire and flood, medical bills and tragedy take away everything a person worked for. I’ve seen people lose everything and make it all back and then some. I’ve seen a person suddenly pass away shortly after retiring from a lifelong career. Never enjoying something he worked his entire life towards. Life is full of blessings and hardship, victory and seemingly defeat. It’s all a part of a much bigger plan at work.
One thing I’ve never seen though is a person get the time back that they lost. My friend’s mother’s wake was only once. I chose to miss it. That child’s graduation, sports game, award ceremony or dance recital is the same. Life is both fleeting and fragile, we truly never know how many tomorrow’s, sports events or ceremonies have been granted to us with those we love.
I hope you’ll take some time this fall and refocus on what’s truly priceless and of utmost value in life. I’m going to take some time to do the same.
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
The Biggest Issue in This Election
By Betsy McCaughey | AMAC Outside Contributor
Free speech is under attack across the globe. Last week, a Brazilian judge shut down X for refusing to obey government censorship demands, France arrested Pavel Durov, CEO of the unregulated app Telegram, and a Hong Kong court convicted two journalists of sedition for publishing material critical of the government.
The U.S. is the next front in the battle over free speech. Voters here must decide if they want the government to limit what they can hear and read, the scientific information they can get and the political views they’re exposed to. That’s Vice President Kamala Harris’ definition of “freedom.”
Harris claims she’s campaigning for freedom, but her track record shows she’s the enemy of the most important freedom – free speech. She uses government power to muzzle those who disagree with her.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s letter to the House Judiciary Committee last Monday should serve as a red flag to everyone who values freedom. Better late than never, Zuckerberg called it “wrong” for the Biden-Harris administration to strongarm Facebook to take down postings indicating masks don’t work and COVID-19 vaccines might produce side effects. “I regret we were not more outspoken about it,” Zuckerberg wrote.
Zuckerberg’s letter confirms evidence already presented to the U.S. Supreme Court and in congressional testimony showing that the BidenHarris administration repeatedly pressured social media companies to censor – getting them to do the dirty work the First Amendment prohibits government from doing directly.
Three days after Zuckerberg’s letter made headlines, CNN’s Dana Bash interviewed Harris but never asked about her role in censoring social media. That’s journalistic malpractice.
She did tell Bash that her “values haven’t changed.” That’s for sure.
Harris chose as her deputy campaign manager Rob Flaherty, who was formerly the White House director of digital strategy – the person who called the shots about what got censored. Promoting Flaherty is another red flag that your freedom will be snuffed out in a Harris/Walz administration.
Elon Musk, CEO of X, isn’t mincing words about the threat Harris poses to free speech.
On Friday, Brazilian Judge Alexandre de Moraes shut down X, imposing fines on anyone there who tries to use the platform. The judge’s rationale will sound frighteningly familiar – to protect democracy. In 2022, Moraes was given sweeping powers to take down “disinformation” about the outcome of a highly contested presidential election there. Musk had repeatedly flouted Moraes’ censorship commands.
After the shutdown Friday, Musk issued a warning to Americans: “The attacks this year on free speech are unprecedented in the 21st century. It will happen in America too if Kamala/Walz gain power.”
Moraes’ justification for shutting down X is identical to what Harris has said to defend censorship. In 2019, as California attorney general, she wrote to then-Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, asking him to deplatform then-President Donald Trump. When CNN’s Jake Tapper asked her if that would violate the First Amendment and lead to a slippery slope with half the nation eventually getting censored, Harris doubled down, insisting censorship is necessary to defend democracy from those who spread “misinformation.”
That’s the vernacular of tyrants. And what about her deeds?
In 2016, as California attorney general, she tried to enforce a state law compelling religious pregnancy centers to post information offering state-funded abortions. In short, compelling the centers to advertise what violates their beliefs. Harris defended the law in federal court, but ultimately the Supreme Court ruled against it.
In another unsuccessful end run around the First Amendment, Harris tried to compel conservative nonprofits in California to release their donors’ names, but the Supreme Court ruled her demand an unconstitutional intimidation of donors, violating their First Amendment rights. Even the usually ultraliberal
American Civil Liberties Union opposed Harris’ demand. Harris has been an enemy of the First Amendment throughout her career.
On Aug. 18, as he suspended his campaign, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. assessed Biden-Harris, warning that “what alarms me is the resort to censorship, media control, and weaponization of the federal agencies,” which he called “an attack on our most sacred right of free expression.”
Zuckerberg, Musk and Kennedy – unlikely bedfellows but all identifying the same danger.
Trump pledges to end government censorship. Harris is promising a $6,000 handout to new parents for “a crib, car seat, and baby clothes.”
Don’t sell out your children’s freedom.
Overview - AMAC -
The Association of Mature American Citizens
The Association of Mature American Citizens represents Americans 50 plus. AMAC is centered on American values, freedom of the individual, free speech, and exercise of religion, equality of opportunity, sanctity of life, rule of law, and love of family, with benefits at all levels.
AMAC plays a vital role in helping build the services that will enrich the lives of America’s seniors. AMAC Action, a 501 (C)(4) advocates for issues important to AMAC’s membership on Capitol Hill and locally through grassroots activism. To Learn more, visit amac.us
20 Bits & Pieces
WORD OF THE Week
Origin: French, literally ‘reason for being.’
Source: Oxford Languages
Synonyms: basis, rationale, purpose
Antonyms: inutility, inactivity, minutiae
RAISON D’ÊTRE
noun
Pronounced: ray-zawn-DET-ruh
Definition: : the most important reason or purpose for someone or something’s existence.
Example: “The prodigy quickly made apparent that music was his raison d’être.”
SUDOKU
See bottom left for the answers (please don’t cheat!)
September 11, 2001: Two passenger planes hijacked by Al Qaeda terrorists crash into New York’s World Trade Towers causing the collapse of both and deaths of 2,606 people
This Week in History
September 5, 1666: Great Fire of London ends, leaving 13,200 houses destroyed and 8 dead T I E D N A C
See how many words you can create. Must have center letter in word and can use letters more than once. 4 letter word minimum.
September 10, 2008: The Large Hadron Collider at CERN, described as the biggest scientific experiment in the history of mankind, is powered up in Geneva, Switzerland
September 9, 1776: First true supermarket, the “Piggly Wiggly” is established by Clarence Saunders in Memphis, Tennessee
September 9, 1776: Congress officially renames the country as the United States of America (from the United Colonies)
September 8, 2022
Queen Elizabeth II dies at Balmoral Castle after ruling for 70 years, as the UK’s longest-serving monarch. Her eldest son inherits the throne as King Charles III
September 7, 1888: Edith Eleanor McLean is 1st baby to be placed in an incubator at State Emigrant Hospital on Ward’s Island, New York
Cole Swindell Rocks the Stage with Opening Act Ashley Cooke at Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill
By Cait Crudden
The Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill was buzzing with excitement on Saturday night as country music fans gathered for a spectacular evening of live music, good food, and fun under the stars. Headlined by country star Cole Swindell, with rising star Ashley Cooke as the opening act, the concert drew a packed crowd, filling the venue with the sounds of country hits and the cheers of enthusiastic fans.
The night kicked off with Ashley Cooke, who wasted no time in getting the crowd on their feet. The young singersongwriter, known for her catchy tunes and engaging stage presence, delivered a spirited performance that set the tone for the evening. Cooke’s set included some popular songs which were met with loud applause and cheers from the audience. Her mix of heartfelt lyrics and upbeat melodies warmed up the crowd, and by the time she finished, the energy in the amphitheater was electric.
As the sun set and the amphitheater lights illuminated the stage, the anticipation reached its peak. Headliner Cole Swindell, known for his string of chart-topping hits and dynamic performances, took the stage to a roaring welcome. Swindell opened and immediately captivated the audience with his powerful voice and engaging charisma.
Swindell’s set was a mix of fan favorites and newer tracks, including hits like “Chillin’ It,” “You Should Be Here,” “Break up in the End”, and “Single Saturday Night.” He interacted with the crowd throughout the show, creating a personal connection that made the night feel like a celebration among friends. Fans sang along to every word, creating a unified chorus that echoed through the amphitheater.
The Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill provided the perfect backdrop for the concert, with its spacious lawn seating and state-of-the-art stage. Concert-goers enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, setting up beach chairs and blankets on the lawn, where they could sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. The amphitheater’s setup ensured that every seat offered a great view of the stage, making the experience enjoyable for everyone in attendance.
Food and drink vendors were stationed around the venue, offering a variety of options, from classic concert snacks to refreshing beverages. The aroma of pizza and empanadas wafted through the air, adding to the festive atmosphere. Attendees mingled with friends and family, creating a community feel that enhanced the concert experience.
The Cole Swindell concert at the Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill was more than just a performance; it was a memorable night of music, camaraderie, and summertime fun. As Swindell continued with his set, crowd-favorite “Ain’t Worth the Whiskey,” had the audience on their feet, dancing and singing along, making it clear that this was a night to remember.
For country music fans on Long Island, the concert was a highlight of the summer, offering a chance to enjoy top-notch performances in a beautiful outdoor setting. With the success of events like this, the Catholic Health Amphitheater continues to solidify its reputation as a premier venue for live music and entertainment in the region.
78th Annual Shinnecock Pow-Wow
By Joe Cuminale
On Labor Day, I attended the 78th annual Shinnecock Pow-Wow on the grounds of the Shinnecock Reservation. This has been an annual tradition for me for forty years. As I entered the grounds of the reservation, I could feel the positive energy flowing. Tribes and dancers from all across North America - Canada, the United States, and Mexico – and even some from South America, were gathered in peace to celebrate and compete in various dance competitions
There were many vendors on site with many different unique, hand-made items, from blankets to silver jewelry and everything in between. The aroma of fresh home-made foods filled the air. A Native band called Blackbird began the day with their own brand of original music, which had many people dancing in the field in front of the stage. Finally, the emcee for the event called on all dancers to assemble for Grand Entry. The Grand Entry is always a spectacular site, with handmade dance garb of all the colors of the rainbow and dancers of all ages, from young children to the Elders and all ages in between, all giving the audience a preview of the dance competitions yet to come.
As all the dancers finally arrived on the stage, the Tribal Chaplain delivered a beautiful invocation and blessing of all in attendance. All visitors
remained standing, and Veterans in attendance joined the dancers on the stage for the Raising of the flags of The United States of America and of The Shinnecock Nation. Veterans joined dancers in a dance to salute Veterans for their service.
After a short break and more music from the drum circles and singers, it was time for the various dance competitions to commence. I would like to say thank you to all for their hospitality and for allowing me to take photographs on their Sacred Land. I am already looking forward to next year’s event.
School Highlights
Three Village Welcomes
Staff at Superintendent’s Conference Day
Three Village Central School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kevin Scanlon, district administrators and leaders welcomed back faculty and staff during Superintendent’s Conference Day, held at Ward Melville High School on August 28. The goal of the program was to set the tone for the start of the 20242025 school year.
Board of Education President Susan E. Megroz Rosenzweig first thanked the faculty for the honorable work being done, which contributes to the
district’s progress and innovative educational programs. She also noted that “human connection is your superpower.”
Dr. Scanlon congratulated new hires and recently tenured faculty and introduced members of the administration. He also reviewed the district’s 360 Survey Results and district goals for the 20242025 school year. After wishing everyone a happy and healthy year, Dr. Scanlon remarked, “We need to find the good in everything we do,” and reminded everyone that they are “here for the kids.”
Smithtown Campers Design Robots for Competition
Smithtown Central School District students attending SCOPE summer camp recently took part in a VEX and Lego Robotics competition at Accompsett Middle School.
Eighth and ninth graders designed robots from scratch and participated in games where their robots tried to pop balloons on the opposing robots and collected as many balls as they could.
Beyond science and engineering principles, VEX Robotics solutions encourage creativity,
Hauppauge Students
Excitedly Begin 2024-25 School Year
Hauppauge School District welcomed students for the 2024-25 school year on September 3.
teamwork, leadership, passion and problemsolving among groups.
Younger campers designed Lego robots to complete obstacle courses.
Smithtown High School East senior Abigail Brennan, who is a member of the Smithtown High School robotics team, helped lead this summer activity for the first time at SCOPE.
“If I can get people to get involved with robotics and love it as much as I do, that’s all I could ask for,” Brennan said.
Following Dr. Scanlon’s remarks, Three Village School Administration Association President Corinne Keane and Three Village Teachers Association President Brian Pickford welcomed the group. Staff members then dispersed for department and faculty meetings and time in their classrooms. Additionally, they participated in a professional development day on August 29.
By Ashley Pavlakis
From Long Island to Paris: Pagonis Swims with Purpose
The 2024 Olympic Games took place earlier this summer in Paris, France. For two-and-a-half weeks, people around the globe crowded around their televisions to cheer on their country in thirty-two different sports. Long Island saw three of their own compete at the Olympics in soccer, basketball, and swimming. Now, Anastasia Pagonis, a swimmer from Garden City, is set to compete at the Paralympic games over the next two weeks.
Anastasia Pagonis is a two-time Olympic swimmer, having competed in Tokyo as a 17-yearold. The now 20-year-old American has set a world record (WR) and an American record in her sport. Pagonis took home gold and bronze medals in the 2020 games, returning in 2024 looking for more.
Pagonis is a Paralympian, which means the athletes competing have some form of disability that falls under one of 10 allowable impairment types deemed by the International Paralympic Committee. In the case of Pagonis, she’s categorized under vision impairment. The freestyle swimmer has a disability called Autoimmune retinopathy. The disease caused Pagonis to begin to lose her sight at age 11, before losing it entirely by age 14. Swimming had been a constant activity in her life, having been there since before she lost her vision. Her training may look a bit different, but the end goal is still the same.
Pagonis’ disability class is S11, which means swimmers in the designated class are considered to be totally blind and therefore must wear blackened goggles. Pagonis recently debuted two new sets of special goggles for the 2024 games, one pair with U.S.A. and the American flag, and another with the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Showcasing the iconic Lady Liberty on her goggles while in the pool is a reminder of where she’s from. Although her family is originally from Greece, Tas [nickname], is a New Yorker.
While some might let their disability hinder them, Pagonis has not wavered. She’s used it as an opportunity to educate people about blindness on social media through TikTok and Instagram. The world champion also has a companion to keep her company and help guide her when needed. Radar, a labrador retriever, serves as Pagonis’ eyes in his job as a guide dog.
“He’s [Radar] changed my life. I didn’t have any freedom or independence before him. Now that I have him, I feel like a totally different person,” said Pagonis, in a 2021 interview with NBC News.
In a video produced by the Olympic Committee in 2021, Pagonis expressed how swimming plays an important role in her life. She described the sport as her happy place, somewhere she feels free. Losing one of your senses entirely is tough, but Tas has taken on the task of not letting the loss of vision get in the way of her dreams.
Long Island native, Anastasia Pagonis, an inspiration to those around her, looks to change the way we “see” the visually impaired in the pool and throughout life.
Wheels Down: Ready, Set, Derby
By Ashley Pavlakis
When the derby comes to town, people generally get fired up about it. In this case, it’s a women’s roller derby league known as the Strong Island Derby Revolution (SIDR). The league debuted in 2011 with the help of local women’s skaters looking for a place to compete. Of the thousand-plus leagues worldwide, Long Island has its own right here in Suffolk County. The roller-skating contact sport first debuted in 1935 and has continued on the fast track since then.
“As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we rely heavily on our community, fans, and supporters. We feel the support of our fans at every event we have. Our fans are locals from across Suffolk County, who actively support local businesses and groups, “said Kristi “BB” Altieri, Captain of the Revolution.
All Sportz, a multi-sports complex in Melville, is the home of the Strong Island Derby Revolution. The league runs entirely on the women who compete in it as well as volunteers who want to help the sport continue to grow. The women of SIDR have fostered an environment of passion, positivity, and healthy competition.
“We currently have two teams- the Revolution which is our A-team and the Slaughters of the Revolution which is our B-team. The bout (game) schedule is from April to November and consists of four home bouts and four away. Our next home game is September 14 against Bay State from Massachusetts,” said Altieri.
The sport itself is simple: two teams generally made up of fifteen players each skating five aside on a roller rink for two (2) thirty-minute periods. Now, a lot can happen in sixty minutes. The game, otherwise known as a “bout,” is all about strategy. It’s not just women on wheels, there’s a method to
the madness that ensues. There are three positions, jammer, blocker, and pivot. The player in the jammer position is the only one who is allowed to score points for their team. With that being said, strategy comes into play for the remaining players to figure out the best way to get those points. The athletes wear quad roller skates as opposed to inline skates, as well as standard protective gear for contact sports.
“The game is both physical and mental. There’s a lot of strategy that goes into playing. Trust and communication between your teammates play a huge part in the success on the track. Some of the Revolution players have been playing together for years and it shows when we are together, “ said Altieri.
Roller derby has been in existence for decades, with the first-ever bout being held in Chicago. Long Island welcomed roller derby as an organized sport when Strong Island Derby Revolution was established in 2011. The popularity of the sport on the island has grown since then.
“Our bouts have anywhere from 300-500 fans each time. Many [are] returning, but also many are new to the sport. Our league continues to grow with new skaters as well. No experience is necessary, so we train them from the ground up. Most of our skaters had no prior skating experience when they joined,” said Altieri.
Organized sports for adults have been on the rise for Long Island residents to join and enjoy over the last few years. Sports such as pickleball, cornhole, bocci, and even roller derby are some of the few sports that provide a fun, social, and competitive atmosphere.
“Roller derby is a community. Strong Island is a league where we pride ourselves on supporting one another and pushing each other to be the best we can be, on and off the track,” said Altieri.
Ronkonkoma Street Fair Brings Community Together with Food, Fun, and Festivities
By Cait Crudden
The annual Ronkonkoma Street Fair, held by the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce, was a resounding success this past weekend, drawing a large crowd of local residents eager to enjoy a day filled with food, shopping, and community engagement. Held on Hawkins Avenue from Portion Road to Church Street, the fair featured an array of vendors, delicious food options, and activities for attendees of all ages. Despite the summer humidity and occasional rain showers, spirits were high, and the sense of community was palpable.
From early morning until late afternoon, the streets of Ronkonkoma were lined with vendors offering a variety of goods, including handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and home décor items. Shoppers had plenty of options to choose from, with something for everyone, whether they
were looking for unique gifts or everyday essentials.
of fan favorites from The Looney Tunes.
The Ronkonkoma Street Fair also served as an opportunity for local elected officials to connect with their constituents in a relaxed and festive environment.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) made an appearance, greeting residents and discussing local issues. Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy (R-Nesconset) was also on hand encouraging patrons to donate blood, alongside Legislator Leslie Kennedy (R-Nesconset).
Legislator Anthony Piccirillo (R-Holtsville), Assemblyman Doug Smith (R-Holbrook), and State Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue) with his dog Pete were also in attendance and chatting with constituents who were enjoying the festivities. The presence of these officials underscored the importance of community events as a platform for civic engagement and direct dialogue between residents and their representatives.
In addition to the shopping and food, the street fair provided a platform for important community services.
A blood donation truck was set up, allowing attendees to make a life-saving contribution by donating blood. The sight of the residents lined up to donate was a testament to the spirit of generosity and community support that defines Ronkonkoma.
Families with children had plenty of entertainment options to keep the young ones busy. Inflatable bounce houses and slides were set up, providing endless fun for kids. Laughter and squeals of joy could be heard as children jumped, climbed, and played together. This added to the festive atmosphere, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy.
As the day went on, the streets remained packed with residents enjoying the offerings of the fair. Friends and neighbors chatted, local business owners connected with new customers, and families spent quality time together. The Ronkonkoma Street Fair once again demonstrated the strength and vibrancy of the local community, providing a day of fun, food, and friendship.
The food trucks were a major highlight of the event, serving up mouth-watering dishes that satisfied every craving. Attendees could be seen enjoying classic sausage and peppers, Greek specialties like gyros and souvlaki, the popular and tangy fried pickles, and a variety of ice cream flavors to cool down from the sun. The enticing aromas of grilled meats and sweet treats filled the air, drawing hungry fairgoers from one stand to the next.
Attendees were also treated to a variety of live music, which was opened by the American Air Power Museum Band, conducted by Ed Albinksi. The wind symphony played favorites from The Blues Brothers, The Wizard of Oz, and even a compilation
As the event came to a close, many attendees expressed their appreciation for the fair and looked forward to its return next year. The Ronkonkoma Street Fair has become a beloved tradition, bringing together residents, vendors, and officials in a celebration of community spirit. With its diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere, the fair continues to be a highlight of the summer season on Long Island.
