The Times of Smithtown - December 29, 2016

The Times of

smiThTown

Fort salonga east • kings park • smithtown • nesconset • st james • head oF the harbor • nissequogue • hauppauge • commack Vol. 29, No. 44

December 29, 2016

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Peo Pl e o f T h e Ye a r 2016 Honorees Anthony Tanzi, Sean Lehmann, Linda Henninger A3 Smithtown Children’s Foundation A4 Tim Eagen A5 Cause Cafe A7 Smithtown Food Pantry A9 Crime Stoppers A10 Carolyn and James Borella A12 Alan Alda A15 Kate Calone A16 Mikey Brannigan A19 COPE Officers A20 Northport Community Drug and Alcohol Task Force A21 Joe Cognitore & Mark Baisch A23 Tom Manuel A26 Greenlawn American Legion Post 1244 A27

Photo by Kevin Reddding

Mike Borella, left, stands with his parents, Carolyn and James Borella, who were chosen as one of Times Beacon Record News Media’s People of the Year for 2016.

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PAGE A2 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

A message from the publisher

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The Times of Smithtown is proud to continue an annual tradition of honoring members of the community who have contributed in a significant manner to its residents and institutions during the past year.

These are the people who go the extra mile to improve the quality of our lives. In these pages, we salute their achievements. We also realize that these men and women are not unique. They are symbolic of the many who devote their efforts to the good of our hometowns. We salute them all and thank them for their service to the community we all love.

Three years ago, we changed the format of how we honor our People of the Year. Now we have one edition for each of the three towns we cover — Brookhaven, Smithtown and Huntington — combining winners from multiple papers.

We also eliminated the categories we previously used to organize the winners, such as medicine, sports or the arts, as we found that they were limiting us in how we were able to honor people. Every winner is simply a person of the year, no matter what their concentration. And instead of

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A3

Kings Park trio work to revitalize downtown area

By ReBecca anzel Three Kings Park community leaders partnered to improve and invigorate the hamlet’s downtown area.

Chamber of Commerce President Anthony Tanzi, Civic Association President Sean Lehmann and Civic Association Vice President Linda Henninger had received feedback from residents and business owners for years that the area needed to be revitalized.

Together, they hosted three meetings attracting about 300 residents each to create a vision plan representative of the community’s wishes for downtown Kings Park, which includes parts of Main Street, Pulaski Road, Indian Head Road and Meadow West. The plans included ideas for more sewers in the town to help accommodate new businesses and affordable housing.

Tanzi and Henninger proposed the completed vision to the Smithtown town board at a meeting in November. The town is waiting on a marketing study to be completed before accepting the plan.

“You just have to drive through Kings Park to see we have great bones and offer a lot,” Henninger said in a phone interview.

“We can really make this the jewel it can be.”

For their leadership and commitment to improving Kings Park, Tanzi, Lehmann and Henninger are being recognized as three of Times Beacon News Media’s People of the Year.

“They work hard to make Kings Park a better place to live. It’s their persistence against resistance from the county, the state and the town that makes them successful —

ing would not be good for the hamlet.

One of their immediate efforts has been to hold a concert series and farmers market on Main Street, a way Lehmann said he hoped would encourage other residents to begin utilizing the downtown area.

“This is a unique community and we love it,” Lehmann said. “Kings Park has a very small town feel and plenty of open space, so when we thought about revitalizing our downtown, we wanted it to still feel quaint and fit with the character of the community.”

Henninger was quick to point out that while she, Lehmann and Tanzi helped to organize the project and make sure a plan was created, revitalizing downtown Kings Park was a group, community effort. The left photo from Tony Tanzi; right from Sean lehmann

Tony Tanzi, left, has worked with Sean lehmann, middle, and linda Henninger to bring new life to downtown Kings Park. they just keep going,” Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) said. “This is something that kids should look at and say, ‘These guys don’t stop and when you don’t stop, you get results.’”

Tanzi, a third-generation Kings Park resident, owns a hardware company, construction firm and several properties in the area.

He said he hopes by revitalizing downtown, younger residents, including his four children, will want and can afford to stay in Kings Park.

“Younger residents not only want the ability to move around without having to get a car, they want to live in an area that has an entire community built into an off-

shoot of where they live,” he said.

Henninger, a mother herself, agreed that upgrading downtown Kings Park is a way to keep residents and attract new ones. She has always been active in the town. A Fort Salonga resident, Henninger has been a member of the civic association since 1992 and formed a group called Kings Park Neighbors Association, which helped prevent the sale of the Kings Park Psychiatric Center to a private developer.

That fight is how she and Lehmann met.

He moved to Kings Park in 2005 and got involved with KPPC because he thought the developer’s plan to build multifamily hous-

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best part of the 18-month project, she and Tanzi agreed, was seeing residents come together to better the hamlet.

“It’s easy to get tons of people coming out to fight against something they don’t want, but it’s very rare that you can get people to come out and talk about something they do want,” Tanzi said. “We got so many people engaged and excited about it that they came out and participated.”

Henninger echoed the sentiment.

“When you’re doing something for the good of the town, of the community, anything can be accomplished,” she said.

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PAGE A4 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Smithtown Children’s Foundation supports community’s youngest residents

By Nicole Geddes

smithtown children’s Foundation volunteers smile at an event. and more for children in the community.

Fitzgerald talked about one instance when they helped cover the cost of driving lessons for Deidre Kearns, a Smithtown resident.

“I am so proud to have helped, [Kearns], an emancipated minor, having nowhere to go who slept on a park bench,” Fitzgerald said. “Someone in the community took her home, and we paid for her driving lessons.”

Today, Kearns is a recipient of the Kaylee Rivers Courage Award and gives back to SCF by volunteering her time and graphic design skills to create logos for them.

Aside from residents in the community lending a hand when needed, local businesses also support SCF to achieve and maintain the above mission by donating

Photo from Facebook

their time and various resources.

Kevin Dernbach and Christine Fortier, second-generation owners of Maureen’s Kitchen are longtime Friends of SCF, a title given to local businesses that support the not-for-profit.

“We have been SCF’s supporters since day one, supporting their golf outings and hosting the Holiday Breakfast and Boutique,” Dernbach said. “We provide breakfast for that event at one of the Smithtown schools.”

She said it’s a no-brainer to support the not-for-profit.

“If you can’t support the community you do business in, why are you in business?” Dernbach said.

Fitzgerald agreed that helping the foundation in turn helps the community.

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For children and families in Smithtown, one organization is always there to lend a hand.

The Smithtown Children’s Foundation fills the void offering more than just a shoulder to lean on but a robust team of supporters throughout the community of Smithtown.

For this reason, Times Beacon Record News Media has chosen the Smithtown Children’s Foundation as People of the Year.

The foundation is on a mission to provide financial and emotional support to children and families within the Smithtown community by bridging family, friends, neighbors and local business to act as one in times of crisis.

Executive Director and Co-Founder Christine Fitzgerald said she never planned on creating this group.

“I had no intention at the time of starting a not-for-profit, and neither did my co-founders who I met simply because we all decided to host fundraisers for this family,” she said.

Smithtown Children’s Foundation was formed in 2008 by three women to help local kindergartner Kaylee Rivers who was diagnosed with stage four neuroblastoma.

“When we met, it was for the sole purpose of helping one another run these events so we could help a family who we all knew was in crisis,” Fitzgerald said. “As we pooled our resources, we were building something to help the entire community.”

The foundation has raised funds to help with health costs, education opportunities

“Assisting us is their opportunity to become a resource for their community and it is a way for them to have an immediate impact on the people who are supporting their businesses,” she said.

Stacey Sanders, executive director of Smithtown Youth Bureau, said her organization also contributes to the foundation.

“We do fundraisers for them, supporting their programs and they support ours,” she said. “We can count on them, they do very good work.”

Word of mouth has also been an important means of keeping the community informed.

“We enlisted ambassadors from schools within the district who keep their school informed of who we are helping, how we are helping and what businesses are supporting our efforts to accomplish these goals,” said Fitzgerald.

SCF has a myriad of support from student clubs such as DECA, Leadership, Interact and various honor societies to the Smithtown Industry Association Board and the Smithtown Teachers’ Association.

Fitzgerald said she hopes the Smithtown Children’s Foundation inspires other areas.

“Charity begins at home and it’s our hope that we can encourage others to start chapters under our tutelage in their own communities.”

For more information on Smithtown Children’s Foundation visit www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com or contact Christine Fitzgerald at fitzybbcf@optonline.net.

DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A5

Kings Park superintendent brings success to district

By Victoria Espinoza victoria@tbrnewpapers.com

has an issue or a problem everybody comes out and helps. They really value service, whether it’s in the armed forces, police, In two years, Superintendent Timothy fire, rescue or just typical service to the Eagen has become the king of Kings Park’s community. All of those things are part of school district. what I believe in.”

Under his leadership, the district has Rudy Massimo, principal at RJO Intermecreated robotics clubs and educational diate School, said Eagen has had a tremenprograms for children from kindergarten dous impact on the morale at Kings Park. up, started work on about $41 million in “I’ve never seen teachers more imimprovements to the district’s facilities, pressed with a superintendent before,” he brought back old clubs and worked tire- said. “He really turned around the entire lessly to make sure the level of education district. To watch it happen is absolutely students receive is up to par. amazing. He has made [Kings Park] an For these reasons, Times Beacon Record amazing place to work.”

News Media has selected Eagen as a Person When Eagen got to work, one of the first of the Year for 2016. jobs he said he wanted to tackle was facility A North Shore native, the superin- upgrades throughout the district. tendent grew up in South Huntington “Every time we turned the corner it was and graduated from Walt Whitman High another area that needed attention,” he said.

School. His undergraduate “So the bond was degree from Alfred University ‘I’ve never seen teachers big.” The capital was in ceramic engineering, a project bond refspecific education he said still more impressed with a erendum was aphelps him today. proved by voters superintendent before.

“As an engineer you’re in December 2015, trained to solve problems, and He really turned around and came in at that is essentially what I do for the entire district. ... He about $41 million. a living,” he said. “It’s not necImprovements like essarily science problems, but has made [Kings Park] an roof replacements, whatever the problem of the amazing place to work.’ bathroom renovaday might be.” tions, hardware re— rudy massimo placements and asHe said after college he switched over to the “family phalt and pavement business” of education. His mother and fa- upgrades are planned at every school in the ther are both retired teachers, and his sister district. Kings Park High School has some bigis a high school English teacher. ticket items including auditorium upgrades, Eagen worked in the South Huntington gymnasium renovations and the creation of a school district for 15 years, starting as a substi- multipurpose athletic field and accompanying tute teacher and working his way to assistant concession stand. The plan was divided into superintendent for curriculum and instruction. certain projects being carried out each year.

In 2014, he arrived at Kings Park — a This past summer the new track was installed community he has great respect for. and about $8 million in other improvements “One of the things I really like about were carried out.

Kings Park is the things that are important Eagen said he is proud of the improveto the community and the school district,” ments done thus far, and is eager to continue he said. “Over the two years that I’ve been working to improve student experiences at here and in my research when I was ap- facilities within the district. plying for the job, there were three things In terms of curriculum, Eagen has asthat stood out: Kings Park pride, family and sured Kings Park students are getting the service. Pride you hear about all the time most up-to-date education possible.

— it’s a very proud community. And then “Robotics has been pretty big,” Eagen family and service, it’s a very close-knit, said. “As well as classes focusing on profamily-type community. When somebody gramming, logic, research — things of that

File photos

above, timothy Eagen has been the superintendent at Kings park for the past two years; below Eagen stands with a Boy scout and his Eagle scout project in Kings park.

nature. We hear a lot about college and caMassimo said Eagen has created an envireer readiness … there’s a lot of truth to ronment for teachers and students to excel.

“He allows us to really run with our that in concern to how competitive it is to ideas,” he said. “You take pride in what get into college right now.”

Eagen said in his first year at Kings Park, you’re teaching your students. This initiastudents and parents approached him with tive has encouraged us to return to creative the desire to create a robotics club, and he academic freedom — sometimes you get lost in the testing world. He’s inspiring to hit the ground running.

Through help from local legislators and everyone in the administration.”

The Kings Park school board agreed, school staff, the team was formed and was even able to compete at an annual competi- Eagen has done wonders for the district.

“The board continues tion hosted at Hofstra University in the spring.

‘Over the two years that to be impressed with Dr. Eagen’s leadership and “Under the heading of family, we all came I’ve been here, there are vision for the Kings Park Central School District together and made it three things that stood as well as the Kings Park happen,” Eagen said. community at large,” After the club was out: Kings Park pride, members said in a joint formed, Eagen began family and service.’ email statement. “He is working to create a robotics — timothy eagen a constant advocate for program for all grades in our children — whether the district. Students now work with programmable robots, that they it be striving for advancements in our curcan move, and make sing and dance. The dis- riculum, our facilities and our programs or leading advocacy groups at the retrict also offers a summer robotics camp.

“It’s just really cool,” Eagen said. “It’s gional and state level on behalf of public the whole coding logic, it’s 21st century education. Dr. Eagen is also a constant lessons. Really what we are trying to do presence at community events — whether is ensure every student graduates with a it be school concerts, plays and sporting general understanding and some skills of events, or local events like parades or programming, robotics, logic and code. It’s group meetings. We are fortunate to have him leading our school district.” good stuff. Kids pick it up so quickly.”

PAGE A6 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A7

Top file photo, bottom from Vanessa Bishop

above, the staff at Cause Cafe smile at the opening; owner Stacey Wohl hopes to create as many jobs as possible for children with developmental disorders.

Cause Café gives jobs to kids with learning disabilities

By Ted Ryan Along Fort Salonga Road is a quaint café, filled to the brim with baked pastries and freshly brewed coffee. But the best part of this shop isn’t the treats, it’s what the café is doing for the community.

Stacey Wohl is the founder and president of Cause Café, a small business that offers jobs to young adults with cognitive and developmental disorders, such as autism.

It is for this reason that Wohl and the staff at Cause Café have been named People of the Year by Times Beacon Record News Media.

Wohl got started in the coffee business through working sales in a newly acquired coffee company with her ex-husband.

During her time working sales in this

new business, she had her two children, Brittney, 19, and Logan, 17, who were both diagnosed with autism. Wohl eventually stopped working to take care of them.

In 2010, Wohl moved to Northport, where she founded her own nonprofit, called Our Own Place, after getting assistance from friends who were also in the nonprofit business. The company provides unique opportunities to special-needs children and their single parents. The organization’s ultimate mission is to open a weekend respite home for families of children with cognitive disabilities that will provide job training and socialization skills to its residents.

Two years later, Wohl started her own coffee business, Our Coffee with a Cause

Inc., a business that employs individuals with disabilities was about twice that of those cognitive and developmental disabilities, and without disabilities.

Wohl can vouch for the need of more funds local charities that support them. It was created in response to the growing con- jobs for the disabled — she experiences it cern for special-needs individuals on Long Is- first hand regularly.

“I get three or four calls a day, or people land who are aging out of schools to find job opportunities and a learning environment to walking in with their resumes, or parents walking in for their child, or job coaches acquire real-life skills.

And on May 7, Wohl opened Cause Café coming in, all asking me for jobs,” she said.

“And we need to get more customers first in Fort Salonga.

Alex Alvino, the head chef of Cause before we can hire more people,” said Wohl.

Dorina Barksdale is one of the parents Café said he appreciates the chance Wohl has offered to not only him, but to those whose child, Johnathan, was able to find work at the café. with special needs as well.

“Johnathan loves his job, and he feels “Stacey’s been great,” he said in a phone interview. “I’m thankful for her for giving accepted and wants to work at the café,” me this opportunity; it’s such a humbling she said in a phone interview. “I see Stacey twice a week, she’s compasexperience to be a part sionate and offers a family of this. I really think ‘Stacey wants to make atmosphere for Johnathan this place has potential, and within a couple of a difference for my son, to work in. Stacey wants to months, it’s just going as well as for other kids make a difference for my son as well as for other kids to take off.” with disabilities who want to Wohl’s children are with disabilities who work.” both actively involved in want to work.’

Wohl said she believes the the café as well.

— dorina barksdale reception of the Cause Café Brittney works at the has been good, especially café after school and on during its early months, but weekends where she busses tables, frosts cupcakes and assists acknowledges the fact the number of opWohl in instructing a cupcakes class the café portunities for those with special needs is offers. Logan busses tables, works behind dependent on the demand for business.

“The community was very supportive of the counter and takes out the garbage.

Wohl said she is looking to change the us the first few months when we opened, business model of the Cause Café into a and we just need to remind them again that nonprofit so it can offer more opportuni- we are here,” said Wohl.

Even though owning a business such as ties, like the ones her children have, for this comes with difficulties, Wohl has no those with disabilities.

“It makes sense for us and for the busi- doubt that the rewards outweigh the risks.

“When you come in here, you see that ness model so that we can hopefully get grants and donations to be able to hire you are giving a kid a job that might not have a job. … When you are buying it [cofmore kids with special needs,” she said.

And the demand for jobs for young fee] from us, you are helping to employ adults with disabilities is high. According someone that would be sitting home othto the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2015, erwise and not having an opportunity to the unemployment rate for people with work,” she said.

PAGE A8 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A9

Smithtown Food Pantry supports residents in need

By Ted Ryan

Photo from Ted Ryan

Pat Westlake, executive director at the pantry, smiles surrounded by donations.

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On March 4, 1984, the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry opened its doors for the first time, and it has served the community in full force ever since. For their support of residents in need, the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry is recognized as the Times Beacon News Media People of the Year.

The food pantry was established to assist the residents of Smithtown who need help feeding their families and is made up of seven churches within Smithtown: the Byzantine Church of the Resurrection, the First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown, the Smithtown United Methodist Church, St. Andrews Lutheran Church, St. James Episcopal Church, St. Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church and St. James Lutheran Church.

According to Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry Executive Coordinator Pat Westlake, it has only gotten more and more successful since its creation.

“They helped about 40 people that first year,” said Westlake. The number has grown each year as more and more people needed help.

The food pantry’s accomplishments are entirely based on the community’s largesse and support.

“People in town are very generous … everything is donated or we purchase it with donations that people give,” Westlake said. “Everyone here is a volunteer, no one gets paid … we depend on this community.”

Each of the seven churches has its own coordinator, and the churches rotate who is running the emergency food pantry every month. The coordinator from each church runs the daily operations and has at least three volunteers working every day.

The people who come to the food pantry go beyond just the poor. In Smithtown, the list of profiles of those who ask for food is longer and more diverse than one might expect.

“Most of the clients come when there’s a problem,” Westlake said. “They lose a job, they get downsized, there’s illness in the family, senior citizens taking in grandchildren, divorces. Most of our clients need a helping hand through that rough time, and that’s what we’re here for.”

With so much need from the community, there are many who rise to the challenge to give to the unfortunate.

During the Thanksgiving season of 2015, a man gave food to the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry. He opened his trunk to reveal more than $100 worth of food to be dropped off.

After thanking the man for the generous donation, Westlake said she ask for his name. “He replied, ‘Joe, just Joe.’ He wouldn’t give his last name.”

After asking what the food pantry was short on, Joe came back the next day with another trunk full of food as well as a dozen turkeys for the Thanksgiving season.

After Westlake thanked Joe for his generosity, he responded, “You helped me a couple of years ago and I always promised I’d pay back.”

It’s because of residents like Joe that the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry has been able to give to those in need for 32 years.

The food pantry has been a big help to the community, and local legislatures such as Smithtown Town Supervisor Pat Vecchio (R) recognize its role.

“The Food Pantry is a most wonderful organization that does great work for those in need,” Vecchio said. “The pantry lives up to the perception that we should feed the hungry. I am proud of the fact that the pantry is part of our town.”

Jean Kelly, the coordinator at St. Thomas of Canterbury, supervises the food pantry every seventh month and said that people may be surprised how many Smithtown citizens are in need.

“There are many more people in the community of Smithtown that need assistance than you would ever imagine,” she said in a phone interview. ““If they do come in, many people cry; they’re embarrassed. But we try to make them feel comfortable, [we] don’t want them in any way to feel that they are in any way a burden to anyone.”

The Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry is located at 90 Edgewater Avenue in Smithtown. You can call 631-2657676 to see what donations are most needed or if you need help feeding yourself or your family.

PAGE A10 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Crime Stoppers reduces illegal activity on North Shore SCPD branch involves the community to help with tips for investigations and arrests

By ReBecca anzel During its 22-year partnership with the Suffolk County Police Department, Crime Stoppers has served as a way for residents to share tips about crime anonymously in their neighborhoods without fear of punishment, and has helped cut crime and aid myriad criminal investigations The not-for-profit organization expanded its repertoire of resources to include a general tip line, 800-220-TIPS (8477); another tip hotline for information about drugs, 631852-NARC (6272); a website and a number for text messaging. Since 1994, its 22,287 tips generated by community members helped solve 42 homicides, closed 1,688 active warrants and led to 2,154 arrests, as at October.

Times Beacon Record News Media is recognizing Crime Stoppers as one of its People of the Year for the organization’s work fighting crime and the heroin epidemic in Suffolk County.

Legislator Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai) File photos above and below right from ScPD; file photo below left by Rebecca anzel said the organization is indispensable to the clockwise from above, members at a Patchogue benefit concert present crime Stoppers with a large check representing donations community.

“Crime Stoppers is a valuable asset and has received; drugs recovered thanks to tips from crime Stoppers; and Mike DelGuidice at the concert fundraiser. created a great partnership with our police department to reduce crime in Suffolk County,” they have been doing without the support of she said in an email. “They work diligently to Police Commissioner Tim Sini, First Deputy coordinate information from the public and the Commissioner John Barry and Police Chief media to solve crime and make arrests. I am Stuart Cameron. Amarr has worked with four proud to support Crime Stoppers and appreci- administrations and said this one strategically ate the dedication of the police officers and vol- embraces Crime Stoppers as a partner and has done more in less than 12 months than he has unteers who keep our communities safe.” seen accomplished in the The organization is staffed by unpaid volun- ‘It gives the public a voice past 10 years.

“We have reinvested teers, most of whom are in our partnership with former law enforcement and an understanding Suffolk Crime Stopor veterans. President Nick of how important pers,” Sini said. “It’s a Amarr, a Marine and Crime great, great, great way Stoppers volunteer for 14 law enforcement is in years, said the organiza- keeping our freedom and we’re able to engage with the public and tion’s real value is in providwe’ve done a lot of good ing residents with a safe way protecting our children.’ to help law enforcement — Nick AmArr for the communities.”

The 8-month-old narprotect their communities. cotics tip line alone had “It gives the public a voice and an understanding of how important law enforcement led to a 140 percent increase in the amount of is in keeping our freedom and protecting our search warrants issued by August; hundreds children,” Amarr said. “That’s very important of drug dealers have been arrested; the police For Save-A-Pet Animal Rescue founder heard that parents across Suffolk County call department has seized a substantial amount of to me and everyone on our board.”

Amarr also said Crime Stoppers’ employ- money; and is on pace to confiscate more ille- and president, Dori Scofield, whose son Dan- in information they hear from their children ees would not be able to continue the work gal firearms than ever before, according to Sini. iel died in 2011 from a heroin overdose, the about drug dealers and unsavory activities in work Crime Stoppers is doing to combat the their communities.

“They’ve made a huge difference,” Kroll county’s heroin epidemic is invaluable.

“The only way we’re going to combat said. “The police department can’t fight all this epidemic is by working together in dif- crime without any help and the Crime Stopferent forces and stopping the drugs in Suf- pers being a liaison between the public and folk County and helping our youth that are them is only a plus.”

Tracey Farrell, formerly Budd, a Rocky already addicted and educating children and parents,” Scofield said. “This epidemic takes Point mother who lost her son Kevin to a hera village to combat and our police and the oin overdose in 2012, agrees the service Crime Crime Stoppers are an important part of that Stoppers provides is life saving to many kids.

“In the few months that it [NARC line] village.”

Crime Stoppers is funded completely by has been out, it has made a huge difference,” donations, which it uses exclusively for re- she said. “It’s nice that people see when they wards for tips leading to an arrest. In July, the make a phone call, something is happening. I organization hosted a benefit concert at The can’t say enough about how great this is.”

Farrell also said she thinks residents are Emporium in Patchogue, raising $58,000 in one night. Amarr said it will host another less interested in the cash reward that comes after a reporting. fundraiser at the same venue next year.

“I think they’re happy they have some Teri Kroll, chairperson of People United to Stop Heroin, part of Long Island Council on place to report things going on in their own Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, spoke at neighborhood,” she said. “[And Crime Stopthe event in support of Crime Stoppers five pers] needs to keep getting information out months ago. Since then, she said she has there wherever they can.”

DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A11

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PAGE A12 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Nesconset couple plants deep roots in community

By Kevin Redding kevin@tbrnewspapers.com

works with them at the nursery, the Borellas built the first Garden of Freedom — a special garden decorated with statues, American Carolyn and James Borella of Borella flags and a banner thanking those who serve Nursery have been making Smithtown a the country as firefighters, police officers, better, kinder and prettier place to live for military personnel, as well as K9 dogs — decades — although they would probably in New York, for which they were recently refuse to take any credit for that. recognized at a dedication and community The Borellas, whose family business celebration by Suffolk County Comptroller of wholesale growing officially started in John M. Kennedy Jr. (R) and Suffolk County 1958, have gone out of their way to beautify Legislator Leslie Kennedy (R-Nesconset). just about every inch of the town, often free According to Martin Aponte, president of charge, and that’s just a small percentage of the 9/11 Responders Remembered Park of the dynamic duo’s selfless efforts. in Smithtown, the two have been instruFor all they’ve done to mental in providing help their community and whatever the site needs its people thrive, the Borel- ‘Their level of helping since it opened in 2011. las have been recognized as [and] sharing is “They have been so Times Beacon News Media gracious with supplying beyond what most People of the Year. us plants and bulbs and Carolyn Borella, 61, said people are capable of trees at no cost,” he said. everything they do comes “Around Christmastime, being aware of.’ from the heart. they have been giving us “We love living here, we — mike donnelly so much roping and so love this community [and] many wreaths; they are all the businesses; we want a staple in the town of people to live here and we want Smithtown Smithtown and their hamlet of Nesconset.” to stay beautiful,” she said in an interview.

Aponte said the Borellas are great peoJames Borella, 55, who was raised ple who believe in giving back. in the house that still stands next to the “They’ve been generous with so many nursery, said he can’t imagine ever leaving others throughout the community,” he said. where he’s been his whole life.

Just mentioning their names ushers in “I have a lot of friends retiring shortly a wave of praise and admiration among or [who] have retired and they’re all mov- Smithtown residents. ing and say ‘why don’t you move and retire “[They] are two of the kindest, most out in the Carolinas or Florida?’ I say ‘there giving and hard working people I have ain’t no way in hell I’m leaving here.’ Ev- come to know,” Mike Donnelly, organizer erything I love is within this town.” of Smithtown’s 350th anniversary parade When she’s not serving in the Nesconset said, in which the couple was honored.

Chamber of Commerce, Smithtown Busi- “Their level of helping [and] sharing is ness and Professional Women’s Network or beyond what most people are capable of at the Smithtown Historical Society plan- being aware of. Running into them always ning festivals and taking care of the farm makes me feel good.” animals sheltered there, Carolyn Borella Christine DeAugustino, president of the joins her husband in going to local restau- Nesconset Chamber of Commerce, said the rants to put poinsettias in their windows, Borellas have been quietly supporting the donating leftover flowers and plants from town behind the scenes for years. their greenhouses to spruce up town hall, Speaking specifically about Carolyn and growing vegetable flats for different Borella, DeAugustino said “the woman’s churches to feed the local hungry. got a heart of gold.”

With their son Mike Borella, 37, who Carolyn Borella, known for loving all

Photo above by Kevin Redding, below from Borella website

Above, Mike Borella, left, stands with his parents, Carolyn and James Borella, at their family nursery in nesconset; below, Some of the flowers at their nesconset nursery. people and animals alike, recently held a fundraiser at the historical society and raised $6,000 for the maintenance and feeding of the animals, which include horses, ponies, sheep, chickens and barn cats.

Fittingly, she also served as Mrs. Claus for holiday celebrations in Nesconset.

Carolyn Borella said her mother inspired her to give back. “[Growing up] in Valley Stream, we were very money-challenged and I was raised by my mother, who was both my mother and my father because my father left when I was a very young girl,” she said. “My mother taught me three things: Soap and water is cheap; you will always be clean. I know how to cook and grow a garden, so you will always have food. And I will teach you what’s in your heart, and you will be the richest girl in the world ... and I am; I may not have everything but I have it all.”

The couple met March 28, 1987, and got married 90 days later on July 3 at the foot of her mother’s hospital bed right before she died. They’ve been inseparable ever since.

She said they have a complete ying-

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yang dynamic, and the fact they get along so well working together 365 days a year, 7 days a week, is a testament to that.

The nursery business came from James Borella’s family. His mother was raised in the world of greenhouses as his grandfather had a string of them in Flushing, Queens, back in the 1930s and ’40s. His father, on the other hand, was a potato farmer who would eventually be persuaded to drop his trade and start a nursery with his wife.

As James Borella said, it wasn’t much of a challenge for his father since working in the greenhouse is just “glorified farming.”

When his parents were retiring and mulling over the idea of closing down their long-running business, James Borella, who had been an employee, couldn’t bear seeing all their hard work disappear and decided to take it over in 1990.

From there, he was a one-man-band working behind the desk, growing in the greenhouses, hopping in the truck to deliver everything, until about 1995 when it was all getting too much for him to carry on his own.

He said he went to his wife and asked if she could come in and help, and she joined in, committed to building something together with him.

“That’s when Borella Nursery really started to go in a completely different direction and become the Borella Nursery it is today,” Mike Borella said, who works mostly in sales but also drives and delivers and helps customers. “From then until now, we’ve probably tripled our business.”

He said he wanted to make it known there are things besides working that his parents enjoy, like being in the Smithtown Bay Yacht Club.

But, naturally, the couple has taken it upon themselves to donate all the plants there, as well as organize three movie nights during the summer at Long Beach for the yacht club community.

“We set up a painter’s tarp, bring the movie, I bring a cotton candy machine and popcorn,” Carolyn Borella said. “It’s all free.”

DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A13

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A15

‘MASH’ star continues to effectively communicate science

By Daniel Dunaief In a world of tirades and terrifying tweets, the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University is encouraging its professors and students to do something the center’s namesake urges: Listen.

Tough as it is to hear what people mean behind an explosive expression that fuses reason and emotion, the scientists in training, established researchers and others who attend some of the lectures or workshops at the center go through an exercise called “rant” in which each person listens for two minutes to something that drives their partner crazy.

Afterward, the scientist has to introduce their partner to the group in a positive way.

The staff at the Alan Alda Center finds inspiration, a role model and a humble but willing listener in Alda, the highly decorated actor of “MASH” who has spent the last several decades drawing scientists out of dense shells constructed of impenetrable jargon and technical phrases.

For his dedication to forging connections for scientists, Times Beacon Record News Media is pleased to name Alan Alda a 2016 Person of the Year.

“He’s doing a wonderful job,” said Jim Simons, the former chairman of the Stony Brook Mathematics Department and hedge fund founder who shared the stage with Alda this summer as a part of a Mind Brain Lecture at Stony Brook. “I can’t think of anyone better to be an honoree.”

Simons described a moment with Alda, who is not a scientist nor does he play one on TV, when he was sharing some abstruse mathematics. Alda’s eyes “glazed over when I was first talking to him. He’s teaching scientists not to get a glaze over their audience’s eyes.”

Alda works tirelessly to share a method that blends scientific communication with the kind of improvisational acting he studied early in his career.

“Improv is not about being funny,” said Laura Lindenfeld, the director at the center.

“It’s about being connected.”

Last June, Alda was a part of a team that traveled to California to share an approach that is in demand at universities and research institutions around the world. The day of the workshop, three people who were supposed to help lead the session were delayed.

Photos by Constance Brukin, Cold Spring Harbor laboratory

alan alda, below left, received the Double Helix award from Cold Spring Harbor laboratory this month, at a ceremony at the american Museum of natural History. above, the lab’s president and CeO, Bruce Stillman, on left, presents the award to alda.

Alda suggested that he run the event, which would normally involve several instructors and break-out groups. Learning about the art of connecting with an audience from someone who reached people over decades through TV, movies and Broadway performances, the attendees were enchanted by their discussion.

“He’s the master,” said Lindenfeld, who was at the campus when the team received news about the delay for the other instructors.

As soon as the session ended, Alda headed for Los Angeles to conduct a radio interview.

“I handed him a granola bar,” recalled Lindenfeld, who joined the center last year. “I was afraid he hadn’t eaten.”

Alda celebrated his 80th birthday earlier this year and shows no signs of slowing down, encouraging the spread of training techniques that will help scientists share their information and discoveries.

The Alda Center is planning a trip to Scotland next year and has been invited to go to Norway, Germany and countries in South America, Lindenfeld said.

When the University of Dundee received a grant from the Leverhulme Trust to create the Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, officials in Scotland, one of whom knew Lindenfeld personally, researched the Alan Alda Center’s mission and decided to forge a connection. Lindenfeld helped coordinate a congratulatory video Alda sent that the Scottish centre played at its opening ceremony.

“Everyone present from the highest Law Lord in Scotland, through to the principal of the university and the Leverhulme trustees did not know it was going to happen, and so it was a huge surprise that stunned the room into complete silence,” recalled Sue Black, the director of the centre in an email. “Brilliant theatre of which Mr. Alda would have been proud.”

Established and internationally known scientists have expressed their appreciation and

admiration for Alda’s dedication to their field. women in science.

The training sessions “drag out of people The glass ceiling is a “real issue for womtheir inhibitions and get them to think about en in science,” said Valerie Lantz Gefroh, the interacting with the public in ways that they improvisation program leader at the center. might not have felt comfortable doing before,” “We’re hoping to give [women] better comsaid Bruce Stillman, the president and CEO of munication tools so they can move forward in Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. This month, their careers.”

The center is also adding new courses.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory gave Alda the Double Helix Medal at a ceremony at the Next fall, Christine O’Connell, who is a part of American Museum of Natural History in New a new effort at Stony Brook called the Science Training & Research to Inform Decision and is York City.

Stillman described the public understand- the associate director at the center, will teach ing and perception of science as “poor.” To a course on communicating with policy and bridge that gap, Alda’s programs “induce sci- decision makers.

That will include encouraging scientists to entists to feel comfortable about talking to the invite state senators to see their field work, gopublic about their ideas and progress.” ing to Congress, meeting with Nobel Prize winner Eric a senator or writing position Kandel suggested that Alda’s acpapers. In political discussions, complishments exceed his own. scientists often feel like “fish “There ain’t many Alan out of water,” O’Connell said.

Aldas, but there are a lot of The course will give scientists Nobel Prizes out there,” Kanthe “tools to effectively endel said. While Kandel is “exgage” in political discussions. tremely indebted to having Scientists don’t have to be won the Nobel Prize,” he said “advocates for or against an isthe totality of Alda’s accomO’Connell said, but they plishments are “enormous.”

— Jim Simons sue,” do have to “be advocates for The Alda Center is working with Columbia University, where Kan- science and what the science is telling us.”

Given an opportunity to express her appredel is the director of the Kavli Institute for Brain Science and a professor, to develop ciation directly to Alda, Black at the University an ongoing program to foster scientific of Dundee wrote, “Thanks for having the faith to collaborate with our centre so far away in communication.

Kandel, who considers Alda a friend, ap- Scotland, where we are trying to influence the preciates his support. Kandel said Jeff Lieber- global understanding of forensic science in man, the chairman of the Department of Psy- our courtrooms — where science communicachiatry at Columbia, asked Alda and Kandel tion can make the difference between a guilty to give a talk on issues related to neurosci- or an innocent verdict and in some places, the ence. Lieberman “was my boss,” Kandel said, difference between life and a death sentence.”

To borrow from words Alda has shared, “I had to be there, but [Alda] didn’t have to and that the staff at the center believe, “Real be there. He goes out of his way for people.”

In 2017, the center will not only share its listening is a willingness to let the other communication techniques around the world, person change you.” Even if, as those who but it will also create conferences for timely have gone through some of the sessions, the scientific topics, including climate change and speaker is ranting.

‘He’s teaching scientists not to get a glaze over their audience’s eyes.’

PAGE A16 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Open Door Exchange helps those in need make a house a home

By DOnnA nEwmAn donna@tbrnewspapers.com Furniture is a necessity. It allows a family to sit at a table and eat together. It gives children a place to do homework. It provides the opportunity to open one’s home to guests. It’s essential for a good night’s sleep.

People transitioning from homelessness, domestic violence shelters, military service or displacement following a disaster need more than just a roof over their heads.

Inspired by a youth mission trip to a furniture bank just outside Washington, D.C., Kate Calone wondered if such a service would fly on Long Island. For some, this might have been a daunting task, but Calone set about researching and planning. She organized a feasibility committee and piloted the group to take off.

The Open Door Exchange is rounding out its second year of operations, having served more than 300 Long Island families and individuals in need. Referred by social service agencies and nonprofits, people can “shop” with dignity, by appointment at the organization’s rented Port Jefferson Station warehouse, which is configured to resemble a furniture store. All pieces are free of charge.

For her compassion, determination and leadership in helping Long Islanders in need, Calone is one of Times Beacon Record News Media’s People of the Year for 2016.

A graduate of Yale University and Harvard Law School, Calone spent six years as an attorney before entering the Princeton Theological Seminary. When she and her husband Dave, who ran against Anna Throne-Holst in the 2016 Democratic primary for the 1st Congressional District and Suffolk County judge, returned to Long Island to raise their three children, Calone worked at the First Presbyterian Church in Northport before joining the Setauket Presbyterian Church as associate pastor, to work with the Youth Group.

When she returned from D.C., she told retired Setauket businessman and church member Tom Kavazanjian her idea and asked if he’d be interested in helping.

Having great respect for Calone and her worthwhile cause, he said yes.

“Kate’s leadership is unique,” he said. “She leads with a quiet confidence and is one of the most unassuming and selfless people I know. Everything she does, she does with such grace.”

With a lot of planning — and the help of a group of dedicated volunteers — Open Door Exchange was launched in January 2015, recounted Stony Brook resident and retired school teacher Diane Melidosian, who was also an early recruit.

“This was no easy undertaking,” she said. “Since there is no cost to the recipient, all costs associated with this program are handled through fundraising, grant writing and contributions.”

There were lots of logistics to be worked out and the committee used A Wider Circle, the furniture bank in the outskirts of D.C., as a model.

East Setauket resident Bonnie Schultz said being a part of the creation of Open Door Exchange energized her.

“I’d never been part of a startup,” she said. “It’s exciting. And [the organization] has grown by leaps and bounds. The amount of furniture that goes in and out of [the warehouse] is incredible.”

She said even some clients come back to volunteer.

Another member of the exploratory committee, Stony Brook therapist Linda Obernauer, said the youngsters who traveled on the mission played an important part in advancing the idea of a Long Island furniture bank.

“Kate got more interested as the kids got into it,” she said, adding that Calone has served as a role model to many of them. “People who are ‘of the fiber’ do the right thing. Kate doesn’t have to have accolades, she helps people because that’s who she is.”

File photos by Susan Risoli

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Above left, residents walked on the Greenway Trail to raise funds and awareness for Open Door Exchange.

Above right, Kate Calone checks out an end table at the organization’s warehouse in Port Jefferson Station.

DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A17

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A19

Northport runner brings home gold at Special Olympics Mikey Brannigan doesn’t let his autism stop him from shattering track records, inspiring others

By Kevin Redding kevin@tbrnewspapers.com One of America’s fastest mile runners has a habit of shattering not just records but expectations both on and off the track.

Mikey Brannigan is coming off a monumental year at just 20 years old. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, he said the odds were stacked against him, forcing him to work twice as hard as anybody else.

But in 2016, the odds didn’t stand a chance as Brannigan continuously knocked them down on his way to the finish line.

For his athletic achievements and for inspiring so many people, Mikey Brannigan is a 2016 Times Beacon Record News Media Person of the Year.

In August, Brannigan ran a 3:57 mile at the Sir Walter Miler meet in Raleigh, North and accepting people with disabilities.

Carolina — becoming the first person with According to Edie Brannigan, his mesan intellectual disability to break the 4:00 sage to students is to “follow your dream, record —and a month later, competed in give it your all, and do well in school.” the Special Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, “He’s doing autism awareness through Brazil, under the T20 Paralympic classifi- the sports world,” his mother said. “People cation, where he took home the gold after with autism see they can be elite athletes a dominating 3:51 mile in the 1500 meters. because somebody’s done it now. They “He’s Mozart on the track,” Sonja Rob- have autism in their lives and see Mikey ... inson, his coach at the New York Athletic he’s doing it for them. It’s incredible. He Club, said in a phone interview. “When it moves people.” comes to running, he’s a genius, and it’s She said her son has had to work mind-boggling what he’s accomthrough a lot of disappointplished and how far he’s come. He ment and rejection, but he’s ‘He’s Mozart does not let the autism define him. come out on top.

I say to him all the time ‘you have on the track.’

Brannigan was just 12 autism, autism doesn’t have you.’” months old when his parents — sonja He came home from Rio not knew there was something difrobinson just a hero in Northport, where ferent about him. At 2 years, he’s always been celebrated, but around he was diagnosed with autism, and when he the country, serving as inspiration for any turned 3, his parents were advised to start kid with special needs. Brannigan even looking at group homes for him, as she said participated in the Macy’s Thanksgiving he wasn’t able to speak in a communicative Day Parade this year with his fellow New way until he was 5, and struggled to keep up York Olympians. academically.

“It’s been a crazy roller coaster,” Bran“He does everything he can to engage nigan said in a phone interview. “I accom- and he’s got the best outlook ... but to have plished a lot of my goals and achievements.” a conversation, unless you’re talking about When he’s not running, Brannigan and his running, is difficult for him,” his mother said. mother, Edie Brannigan, speak to parents and When he was in fourth grade, his pareducators in Northport about autism, bullying ents signed him up for Rolling Thunder,

File photos by victoria espinza

Above, Mikey Brannigan displays his gold medal; below, Brannigan greets northport students as they welcome him back after his victory at the Olympics; top left, students at northport hold signs praising Brannigan’s victory. a not-for-profit running club aimed at kids with special needs. The club gave him structure and provided an outlet for his natural ability to run fast. He’s been hooked on the sport ever since.

It was the running that helped him become a better student, Edie Brannigan said. By sixth grade, he was capable of doing age-appropriate work in the classroom.

“The autism serves the running and the running serves the autism,” she said. “He can focus like nobody else can in running.

It’s not just about feet and legs, it’s about your head. He has that intense focus and that serves him well. [From there] he was able to absorb information and process it in a way that he never had before. He just kept amazing everyone and excelling.”

So much so that Brannigan was running for the Northport High School cross country team when he was still in eighth grade.

Under Jason Strom’s coaching, Mikey would become the two-mile record holder in the state with a time of 8:45, and by senior year he was recognized as one of the 10 best high school runners in the country.

“It’s been tremendous to see everything he’s gotten to do and experience over the last year,” Strom said in a phone interview. “[I] root for him every step of the way. He’s always been a really good kid and always been very focused and hard working toward his goals, so it’s nice to see that come to fruition.”

Strom said when Brannigan was on the team and went to meets, students from other schools would come up and ask to take pictures with him.

“Mikey transcended the ranks and was a rock star among high school track kids,” he said.

Even though dozens of colleges were interested in scooping him up, Brannigan was unable to attend any of them because his autism makes taking standardized tests like the SATs and ACTs near impossible.

Instead, Brannigan’s been training professionally with the New York Athletic Club under Robinson and going to Suffolk County Community College part-time.

In the last year, he’s trained all over the world, from Berlin to Saudi Arabia to Doha to Toronto and, of course, Rio. “He’ll have a long career,” Robinson said. “This is what he wants to do. It’s his chosen career. When he has a passion for something he’s going to master it ... and he loves the sport of track and field.”

His mother said everything the family was afraid of when Brannigan was a kid — that he wouldn’t be independent or have a job — has been put to rest, but she can’t take any credit for that.

“People say ‘oh you did such a good job [with him]’ to me and I think ‘yeah I don’t think I did that,’” Edie Brannigan said. “I think his success is his alone. He’s so dedicated and gives his all every single day.”

PAGE A20 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Community-oriented officers work to better residents’ lives

By ReBecca anzel Suffolk County Police Department Officers Angela Ferrara and Jamie Wendt are no strangers to Huntington residents.

The 2nd Precinct’s two community-oriented police enforcement officers, otherwise known as COPE officers, are dedicated to working with and getting to know their community. Instead of focusing on enforcement and policing, Ferrara and Wendt attend community meetings to hear residents’ concerns, host events to connect with members of their community and even spend afternoons helping local kids with their homework.

“We want to help residents,” Ferrara said in a phone interview. “We want to make them safer, make their lives better.

We love what we do. The COPE unit is here for the community and we’re always available for anyone that needs us.”

For their work connecting with residents in Huntington and bringing together the community with the Suffolk County Police Department Times Beacon Record News Media has named Officers Ferrara and Wendt as People of the Year.

“The COPE officers are phenomenally effective and popular in the community,” Police Commissioner Tim Sini said in a phone interview. “We want to make sure we break those barriers and always enhance the relationships that we have with the communities we’re tasked to protect. They are very much a part of the fabric of our community.”

The unit has been in existence for a long time, but it was redefined in 2014 as part of

SCPD’s community policing model. COPE officers are tasked with building a trusting relationship with the communities the police protect. Sini said community partnership is a key aspect of SCPD’s mission and this unit is an integral part of that.

Ferrara has been a COPE officer since 1998. She left the 2nd Precinct between 2007 and 2010 to become an academy instructor but has been in her current position since she returned. Ferrara also leads the Police Explorers program, for kids ages 14 to 21 who show an interest in law enforcement careers.

Wendt is a Dix Hills native. She has been a COPE officer for about a year and also volunteers with local fire departments. Between the two of them, Ferrara and Wendt attend community meetings and events, and they plan their own as well.

Wendt organized a successful one in April — an ice skating event at the Dix Hills Park Ice Rink for children from the Tri Community and Youth Agency to teach them how to skate. She is a United States Figure Skating Association double gold medalist and has been coaching various skating disciplines for 19 years, so she said it was a fun way for her to share her expertise.

Tri CYA Regional Director Debbie Rimler said Wendt and Ferrara spend time with the kids whenever they can and always attend the organization’s events. The ice skating event attracted children ages 8 through 17, and they left asking when they could skate with the officers again.

Ferrara said events such as that one are her favorite because she gets to interact

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above left, angela Ferrara smiles; right, Jamie Wendt skates during an event. with the younger generation.

“I just love being around the children because they’re the future,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see the kids grow up and become adults too. If any of our guidance is helpful, that’s a great thing.”

Most recently, the officers participated in the SCPD’s Shop with a Cop event at Target. The department gives $50 gift cards to kids in the community who may not have the resources to purchase Christmas gifts, and officers take them shopping, helping them pick out toys and other presents.

“The faces on these children when they’re

able to pick out gifts with a uniformed police officer is something special,” Sini said. “The event is such a great way to have our officers interact with and serve as role models for children while bringing holiday cheer to them.”

It is events like these that Jim McGoldrick, a Huntington Station resident, said is what makes the COPE officers so invaluable.

“Without Angela and Jaime, I don’t know where Huntington Station would be,” he said. “They’re so involved with our community, our kids — everything.

They’ve become part of our family.”

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A21

File photo above; below from sean Boylan

above, members of the northport community Drug and alcohol task Force smile with their banner during the cow Harbor Day parade; below, anthony Ferrandino, cochair of the task force, back left, and sean Boylan, back right, stand with members of the task force at a board of education meeting.

Northport Drug and Alcohol Task Force unites, educates community

By Victoria Espinoza victoria@tbrnewspapers.com The Northport-East Northport Community Drug and Alcohol Task Force took 2016 by storm.

The organization raised $19,000 for a local youth group, organized its sixth annual Recovery Awareness and Prevention educational week districtwide and secured a $625,000 federal grant — not a bad way to commemorate its 10th year in existence.

The local organization works to eliminate drug use and substance abuse in the Northport-East Northport community as well as promote prevention, offer educational resources for parents and community members and more.

For the work the task force does for the community, Times Beacon Record News Media has chosen the members of the Northport-East Northport Community Drug and Alcohol Task Force as People of the Year.

Anthony Ferrandino, co-chair of the task force, said he’s pleased with the work the group was able to accomplish this year.

“It’s definitely a good feeling,” he said in a phone interview. “We’ve grown so much, it’s nice to break through certain thresholds.”

Sean Boylan, Ferrandino’s co-chair, agreed the task force accomplished a lot in 2016.

“We’ve come a long way as a task force,” he said in a phone interview. “This year was a tremendous amount of work.”

Ferrandino said the mission of the task force is to educate as many students, parents and community members as possible about the dangers of drugs — and it’s safe to say they exceeded their goal this year.

In June, the task force worked with the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport to host the premiere of a short film “Grace,” created by Marisa Vitali, a former heroin addict. The film depicted the struggles and triumphs of living life in recovery, and after the film Vitali answered audience questions and discussed her own personal experience with

drug addiction. At the event, Ferrandino said he was thrilled to see how many community members they were able to educate that night.

Boylan echoed the sentiment, saying the success of the fundraiser was great but the real achievement was the conversations had.

“The tremendous event was the question and answer portion after the show,” he said.

“We had many different subgroups talk about recovery and have real conversations with our community members. It was awesome.”

The premiere raised $19,000 in ticket and raffle sales, which was donated to the Youth Directions and Alternatives, a nonprofit with a new establishment in Northport that hosts free programs and events for the Northport youth. The YDA recently started offering a prevention program for kids as well.

Ferrandino said organizations like the YDA are key to reducing the amount of kids who turn to drugs.

“We collaborate with everybody,” he said. “It really takes an entire community to be on the same page to create change. We create partnerships and try to change the culture of a community.”

The task force is committed to branch out into the community as much as possible. They have organized countless Narcan training programs, prescription take-back events and most recently town hall events to try and collaborate with leaders with their new federal grant.

Late this September, the task force received more than half-a-million dollars in a grant that is part of the Drug Free Communities Support Program, a White House project that works to reduce youth substance abuse by promoting communitywide participation and evidence-based practices.

For winning this nationally competitive grant, the task force will receive $125,000 per year for the next five years. It enables the hiring of a full-time task force coalition leader and supports a range of coordinated practices and evidence-supported activities aimed at prevention. The programs include parent education, social media initiatives,

pharmacist/youth collaboration and stricter law enforcement practices.

This is where the group wants as much community input and support as possible.

“We’re trying to create partnerships with local doctors, business owners and more,” Ferrandino said. They hope to use their grant as effectively as possible and educate as many residents as they can.

This past October, the task force successfully hosted its sixth-annual RAP Week — a five-day event in every school in the district that featured special guest speakers, activities and assemblies dedicated to raising awareness of prescription drugs, alcohol and other unhealthy habits in an effort to highlight the dangerous impact they can have on a person’s life.

Northport Superintendent Robert Banzer praised the work the task force does within the schools.

“We are very pleased The Drug & Alcohol Task Force is being recognized for their continued efforts to confront a pervasive problem facing the youth of our community,” he said in an email. “The Task Force, under the leadership of Anthony Ferrandino and Sean Boylan, is made up of a diverse group of community members who all share the same resolve: bringing an end to drug and alcohol

abuse and providing resources, awareness and opportunities for healthy decision-making, free of addiction.”

Boylan said he is thankful for all the support the district gives the task force to allow them to dedicate an entire week to teaching the students.

He said one memory from this year that sticks out for him was walking in the Cow Harbor Day Parade down Main Street.

“We’ve done it for many years, in the past we’ve had ten kids walking with us,” he said.

“But this year we had more than 70 kids and parents, holding banners and wearing shirts.

It was so symbolic; to me that is the impact we’re having. It’s showing we’re making an impact on a lot of different levels.”

But the work is far from over, both cochairs said.

“We have a long way to go,” Boylan said.

The task force holds open meetings on the second Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the superintendent’s conference room at the William Brosnan Administration Building, and Boylan said new members are always welcome.

“What’s great about us is we’re made up of volunteers that bring their own passions to this,” he said. “They are dedicated to this community.”

PAGE A22 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A23

Duo builds homes for vets as hand up, not hand out

By Desirée Keegan desiree@tbrnewspapers.com Receiving keys can be a magical moment for anyone, but for Joe Cognitore and Mark Baisch, they’re more excited about handing them over.

The Rocky Point VFW Post 6249 commander and the developer and owner of Landmark Properties, respectively, have been building and giving homes to veterans for the last four years. They’ve created 11 homes so far, and this year, the duo amped up the intensity to build three homes, with a fourth in the works.

For their work in the community and for dedicating their time and efforts to honoring and helping those who served our country, Cognitore and Baisch are Times Beacon Record News Media’s People of the Year for 2016.

“It’s bittersweet,” Cognitore said.

“There’s many candidates that we come across and every one of them deserves the home. Just to hear their stories is amazing.”

Cognitore first met Baisch at a fundraiser Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro (R) was hosting. Not knowing anyone at the event, the two found themselves sitting at the same table, and Cognitore began talking about the possibility of building a home for a disabled veteran.

“I thought it’d be one and done,” Baisch said, laughing, while thinking about the first home. “I never thought it would get to this level, but what we’re able to do for these families is so good that it would be hard for me to think about not doing this.”

The two recently unveiled the 11th home for returning veterans to the Cote family, who now own a home in Miller Place. The Bonacasas and Johnsons also received homes this year.

“I’m at a loss with words for everything they did for me and my family,” Deborah Bonacasa said. She is an Air Force veteran whose husband, Staff Sgt. Louis Bonacasa from Coram, died after a suicide bomber detonated himself outside Bagram Airfield in northwest Afghanistan.

“They’re professional and thoughtful. I think it’s great what they’re doing for veterans and recognizing and advocating and stepping up to do things for those who do so much for our country.

This house is, and they are, a constant reminder that there are great people still out there willing to help people.”

Rocky Point social studies teacher Rich Acritelli said no one cares more about veterans — and the entire hamlet — than Cognitore.

“He’s always got the community at his heart,” he said. “He personifies everything that a citizen should be, in terms of national and local service, between being in the military and always working for the betterment of his community.”

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai) was proud to see how the two stepped up for the Cote family, who were kicked out of their home when the landlord let the Sound Beach property fall into foreclosure. The family has also struggled with illness. Mother Renée Cote has acute intermittent porphyria, a

File photo above from VFW Post 6249; file photo left by Kevin redding

above, VFW Post 6249 Commander Joe Cognitore speaks at an event; right, Mark Baisch sits as new homeowner Deborah Bonacasa signs papers for her new home; below, Megan and Joshua Johnson smile in front of their new home. rare and painful metabolic disorder that requires expensive biweekly treatments, which she has undergone for 14 years at John T. Mather Memorial Hospital in Port Jefferson. Her 7-year-old son, Zachary, was diagnosed with Grade 4 medulloblastoma, brain cancer, in June 2014, and endured 42 rounds of radiation and nine months of intense chemotherapy, until he was also diagnosed with acute intermittent porphyria.

“They are literally warriors to those that need help,” Anker said. “They get out there, they understand the struggles and they’re there to help, and that’s what’s so important. When Mark heard about Zachary Cote’s situation, he came to the rescue. Talk about superheroes, they are our local superheroes.”

Cote’s husband Glen was a U.S. Army combat medic in the Gulf War, before coming home and suffering an on-the-job inthat disabled him.

— Renée Cote jury“Anyone that met them couldn’t believe what a great family,” Cognitore said. “Especially Zachary, what a little gentleman.”

But Renée Cote said she can’t believe what a great group Cognitore, Baisch and the rest of the developers and donators are.

“I could sit there and write a million thank you cards, and to me, it would not be enough for what they’re doing,” she said. “And I don’t even think they realize what they’re doing.

To first serve our country, and then to give back — and I mean give back in a huge way — it’s good to be surrounded by people like that. They’re angels walking the Earth.”

Baisch said his contractors and the community showed more support for the Cotes’ new home in Miller Place than on any other house. There were over 30 volunteers, some of whom have been helping Baisch since the first home. Many of them donate windows, garage doors, bathtubs and furniture. Local supermarkets and civic associations also give gift cards to help the new family acclimate to the area.

“They just continue to give and give and

‘I don’t even think they realize what they’re doing. To first serve our country, and then to give back — and I mean give back in a huge way — it’s good to be surrounded by people like that.’

give every time we do one of these homes, and they never let me down,” Baisch said of his contractors. “It’s really the only way these homes could come together. We’re not a charity; we consider these homes a hand up, not a hand out. They do the best they can and it’s amazing how much they keep giving. It shocks me after 11 houses that they’re like ‘Mark, let’s do more.’”

Cognitore said he enjoys creating a community of veterans.

“Once they get into these homes, they’re a great neighbor, a great citizen, they keep up their homes, they pay their taxes, so everything works out,” he said. “It’s a win for everybody.”

The veterans appreciate that as well.

“It makes me feel at home knowing there are veterans out there like me,” Bonacasa said. “If we ever needed each other, we’re right there.”

Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner (C-Rocky Point) said she’s thankful that most of the homes have been built in her district.

“It’s very heartwarming,” she said of the welcome-home ceremonies. “It’s impossible to not get choked up. Especially the most recent one with the Cote family — they’ve had some significant challenges. They were struggling, and Joe and Mark saved them.”

Baisch said that the real tragedy of it all

is the fact that without his help, the families wouldn’t be able to remain on Long Island.

“They had no real chance of having a family here and living here if it weren’t for these homes, so that’s the all-encompassing enjoyment out of it,” he said. “These people would have been long gone, and they’re not the types of people we’d like to see leave Long Island. They served their country and they’re Long Islanders, each and every one of them. For them to have to leave because they can’t afford to live here, there’s something wrong with that.”

Bonner said what the “dynamic duo” does shows their true character.

“Mark is very altruistic, and he’s never looking for a pat on the back about it, he just feels passionately about it and does it because he thinks it’s the right thing to do,” she said.

“And Joe is a tremendous advocate for veterans and a true Patriot. Their hearts are bigger than their wallets. It’s more about doing the right thing than it is about making money.”

Baisch said as long as Landmark Properties is around, he’ll continue to do something like this.

“It’s one of the best feelings of my life,” Baisch said. “I can’t explain it. I can’t come up with words enough to tell how wonderful it feels. The thought of not continuing doing this doesn’t even enter my mind.”

PAGE A24 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Religious ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

STONY BROOK CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY Connecting to God, Each Other and the World

400 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket (631) 689–1127 • Fax (631) 689–1215

www.stonybrookchristian.com Pastor Troy Reid Weekly Schedule Sunday Worship w/nursery 10 am Kidmo Children’s Church • Ignited Youth Fellowship and Food Always to Follow Tuesday Evening Prayer: 7 pm Thursday Morning Bible Study w/Coffee & Bagels: 10 am Friday Night Experience “FNX” for Pre K-Middle School: 6:30 pm Ignite Youth Ministry: 7:30 pm Check out our website for other events and times

BYZANTINE CATHOLIC RESURRECTION BYZANTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH

38 Mayflower Avenue, Smithtown NY 11787 631–759–6083 resurrectionsmithtown@gmail.com www.resurrectionsmithtown.org Father Tyler A. Strand, Administrator, Joseph S. Durko, Cantor Divine Liturgy: Sundays at 11:15 am Holy Days: See website or phone for information Sunday School Sundays at 9:15 am Adult Faith Formation/Bible Study: Mondays at 7:00 pm.

PrayerAnon Prayer Group for substance addictions, Wednesdays at 7 pm A Catholic Church of the Eastern Rite under the Eparchy of Passaic.

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. GERARD MAJELLA 300 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station (631) 473–2900 • Fax (631) 473–0015

CATHOLIC

ST. JAMES ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 429 Rt. 25A, Setauket, NY 11733 Phone/Fax: (631) 941–4141

Mission Statement: In faith we come together to celebrate the Eucharist as a Parish Family; and as a Catholic community of faith, we are sent to be Christ to the world around us.

Rev. James-Patrick Mannion, Pastor Rev. Gerald Cestare, Associate Pastor Rev. Jon Fitzgerald, In Residence Weekday Masses: Monday – Saturday 8:00 am Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil 5:00 pm Sunday 8:00am, 9:30 am (family), 11:30 am (choir), 6:00 pm (Youth) Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm Baptisms: Sundays at 1:30 pm (except during Lent) Reconciliation: Saturdays 4:00 – 4:45 pm or by appointment Anointing Of The Sick: by request Holy Matrimony: contact the office at least 9 months before desired date

CONGREGATIONAL MT. SINAI CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

233 North Country Road, Mt. Sinai • (631) 473–1582 www.mtsinaichurchli.org “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here”

Service of Remembrance to be held on December 21 at 7 pm Worship hour is 8:30 am and 10 am Sunday School and Childcare offered at 10:00 am open to all children (infants to 8th grade).

The last Sunday of every month is our Welcome Sunday Service.

This service has been intentionally designed to include persons of differing abilities from local group homes.

We are an Open and Affirming Congregation.

CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

www.stgmajella.org All are Welcome to Begin Again. Come Pray With Us. Rev. Jerry DiSpigno, Pastor Office of Christian Formation • 928–2550 We celebrate Eucharist Saturday evening 5 pm, Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 am Weekday Mass Monday–Friday 9 am We celebrate Baptism Third weekend of each month during any of our weekend Masses We celebrate Marriage Arrangements can be made at the church with our Pastor or Deacon We celebrate Reconciliation Confession is celebrated on Saturdays from 4–5 pm We celebrate You! Visit Our Thrift Shop Mon. – Fri. 10 am–4 pm + Sat. 10 am–2 pm

www.crossoverchristianchurch.com Pastor Lesaya Kelly Weekly Schedule: Sunday Worship w/Children’s Church 9:30 - 11am We offer weekly small groups and monthly meetings for men and women.

We exist to love God with everything we have. We are a small, vibrant community reaching out to our world with love in action.

INFANT JESUS ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

EPISCOPAL

110 Myrtle Ave., Port Jefferson, NY 11777 (631) 473-0165 • Fax (631) 331-8094

www.www.infantjesus.org Reverend Patrick M. Riegger, Pastor Associates: Rev. Francis Lasrado & Rev. Rolando Ticllasuca To schedule Baptisms and Weddings, Please call the Rectory Confessions: Saturdays 12:30-1:15 pm in the Lower Church Religious Ed.: (631) 928-0447 • Parish Outreach: (631) 331-6145 Weekly Masses: 6:50 and 9 am in the Church, 12 pm in the Chapel* Weekend Masses: Saturday at 5 pm in the Church, 5:15 pm in the Chapel* Sunday at 7:30 am, 10:30 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm in the Church and at 8:30 am, 10 am, and 11:30 am (Family Mass) in the Chapel* Spanish Masses: Sunday at 8:45 am and Wednesday at 6 pm in the Church *Held at the Infant Jesus Chapel at St. Charles Hospital Religious Education: (631) 928-0447 Parish Outreach: (631) 331-6145

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CROSSOVER CHRISTIAN CHURCH Finding Faith As A Way of Life

Meeting at the Heritage Community Center 633 Mt. Sinai Coram Rd., Mt. Sinai (631)734-0204

ALL SOULS EPISCOPAL CHURCH “Our little historic church on the hill” across from the Stony Brook Duck Pond

Main Street, Stony Brook • (631) 751–0034

www.allsouls–stonybrook.org • allsoulsepiscopalchurch@verizon.net Please come and welcome our new Priest: The Rev. Farrell D. Graves, Ph.D., Vicar Sunday Holy Eucharist: 8 and 9:30 am Religious instruction for children follows the 9:30 am Service This is a small eclectic Episcopal congregation that has a personal touch. We welcome all regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey. Walk with us.

EPISCOPAL

CAROLINE CHURCH OF BROOKHAVEN The Rev. Cn. Dr. Richard D. Visconti, Rector

1 Dyke Road on the Village Green, Setauket Web site: www.carolinechurch.net Parish Office email: office@carolinechurch.net (631) 941–4245

Sunday Services: 8 am, 9:30 am and 11:15 am Church School/Child Care at 9:30 am Church School classes now forming. Call 631-941-4245 for registration.

Weekday holy Eucharist’s: Thursday 12 pm and First Friday of the month 7:30 pm (rotating: call Parish Office for location) Youth, Music and Service Programs offered.

Let God walk with you as part of our family–friendly community.

CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 127 Barnum Ave., Port Jefferson (631) 473–0273 email: ccoffice@christchurchportjeff.org www.christchurchportjeff.org

Father Anthony DiLorenzo: Priest–In–Charge Sunday Services 8 am & 10 am Sunday Eucharist: 8 am and 10 am/Wednesday 10 in our chapel Sunday School and Nursery Registration for Sunday School starting Sunday after the 10 am Eucharist Our ministries: Welcome Inn on Mondays at 5:45 pm AA meetings on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm/Prayer Group on Wednesdays at 10:30 am/Bible Study on Thursdays at 10 am.

It is the mission of the people of Christ Church to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ and to make his love known to all through our lives and ministry.

We at Christ Church are a joyful, welcoming community. Wherever you are in your journey of life we want to be part of it.

EVANGELICAL THREE VILLAGE CHURCH Knowing Christ...Making Him Known

322 Route 25A, East Setauket • (631) 941–3670 www.3vc.org

Lead Pastor Josh Moody Sunday Worship Schedule 9:15 am:Worship Service Sunday School (Pre–K – Adult), Nursery 10:30 am: Bagel/Coffee Fellowship 11:00 am: Worship, Nursery, Pre–K, Cornerstone Kids (Gr. K–4) We offer weekly Teen Programs, Small Groups, Women’s Bible Studies (day & evening) & Men’s Bible Study Faith Nursery School for ages 3 & 4 Join us as we celebrate 55 years of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ!

GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION

430 Sheep Pasture Rd., Port Jefferson 11777 Tel: 631-473-0894 • Fax: 631-928-5131 www.kimisis.org • goc.assumption@gmail.com

Rev. Demetrios N. Calogredes, Protopresbyter Sunday Services Orthros 8:30 am - Devine Liturgy 10 am Services conducted in both Greek & English* Books available to follow in English* Sunday Catechism School, 10:15 am - 11:15 am* Greek Language School, Tuesdays 5 pm - 8 pm* Bible Study & Adult Catechism Classes Available* Golden Age & Youth Groups* Thrift Store* Banquet Hall available for Rental* For information please call Church office*

To be listed in the Religious Directory, please call 631–751–7663

DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A25

Religious JEWISH

CHABAD AT STONY BROOK

“Judaism with a smile” Future site: East side of Nicolls Rd, North of Rte 347 –Next to Fire Dept.

Current location: 821 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove (631) 585–0521 • (800) My–Torah • www.ChabadSB.com

Rabbi Chaim & Rivkie Grossbaum Rabbi Motti & Chaya Grossbaum Rabbi Sholom B. & Chanie Cohen Membership Free •Weekday, Shabbat & Holiday Services Highly acclaimed Torah Tots Preschool • Afternoon Hebrew School Camp Gan Israel • Judaica Publishing Department • Lectures and Seminars • Living Legacy Holiday Programs Jewish Learning Institute Friendship Circle for Special Needs Children • The CTeen Network N’shei Chabad Women’s Club • Cyberspace Library www.ChabadSB.com Chabad at Stony Brook University – Rabbi Adam & Esther Stein

YOUNG ISRAEL OF CORAM

Coram Jewish Center 981 Old Town Rd., Coram • (631) 698–3939 YIC.org-YoungIsraelofCoram@gmail.com

RABBI DR. MORDECAI AND MARILYN GOLSHEVSKY RABBI SAM AND REBECA GOLSHEVSKY

“THE ETERNAL FLAME-THE ETERNAL LIGHT” Weekly Channel #20 at 10 am Shabbat Morning Services 9 am. Free Membership. No building fund. Free Hebrew School. Bar/Bat Mitzvah Shabbat and Holiday Services followed by hot buffet. Adult Education Institute. Women’s Education Group-Internationally prominent Lecturers and Women’s Torah Class. Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Kaballah Classes. Jewish Holiday Institute. Tutorials for all ages.

Put Meaning in Your Life 631-698-3939 Member, National Council of Young Israel All welcome regardless of knowledge or observance level.

NORTH SHORE JEWISH CENTER

385 Old Town Rd., Port Jefferson Station (631) 928–3737 www.NorthShoreJewishCenter.org Rabbi Aaron Benson

Cantor Daniel Kramer, Rabbi Emeritus Howard Hoffman Executive Director Marcie Platkin Services: Daily morning and evening minyan Friday at 8 pm; Saturday 8:45 am and one hour before sundown • Tot Shabbat Family Kehillah • Sisterhood • Men’s Club • Seniors Club • Youth Group Award–winning Religious School • Teen Community Service Program Nursery School • Mommy and Me • Preschool Summer Program Continuing Ed • Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Judaica Shop Thrift Shop • Kosher Catering Panel We warmly welcome you to our Jewish home. Come worship, study and enjoy being Jewish with our caring NSJC family.

Member United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

TEMPLE ISAIAH (REFORM)

1404 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook • (631) 751–8518 www.tisbny.org

D irectory LUTHERAN–ELCA

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH AND ANCHOR NURSERY SCHOOL 46 Dare Road, Selden (631)732-2511 Emergency number (516) 848-5386 Rev. Dr. Richard O. Hill, Pastor email: hopelutheran@msn.com • website: www.hopeluth.com Holy Communion is celebrated every week Saturdays 5 pm and Sundays at 8 am, 9:30 am and 11 am

ST. PAULS LUTHERAN CHURCH

309 Patchogue Road, Port Jefferson Station (631) 473–2236

Rev. Paul A. Downing, Pastor email: pastorpauldowning@yahoo.com • pastor’s cell: 347–423–3623 church website: wwwStPaulsLCPJS.org Services: Sundays-8:30 and 10:30 am-Holy Communion Bibles and Bagels 9:30 am Sunday School during 10:30 service Wednesday evening 7:30 pm-Holy Communion Friday Morning-Power of Prayer Hour 10:30 am

LUTHERAN–LCMS

MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH Messiah Preschool & Day Care 465 Pond Path, East Setauket www.messiahny.com (631) 751–1775

Rev. Charles Bell, Pastor We welcome all to join us for worship & fellowship Sunday Worship Services 8:15 am, 9:30 am, 11:00 am Sunday School at 9:30 am We have a NYS Certified Preschool & Day Care

METHODIST SETAUKET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 160 Main Street, Corner of 25A and Main Street East Setauket • (631) 941–4167

Rev. Steven kim, Pastor

www.setauketumc.org • SUMCNY@aol.com Sunday Worship Service & Church School 10 am 10 am Worship with Holy Communion Mary & Martha Circle (Women’s Ministry) monthly on 2nd Tuesday at noon

STONY BROOK COMMUNITY CHURCH UNITED METHODIST

216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook, 11790 Church Office: 631-751-0574 stonybrookcommunitychurch@gmail.com www.stonybrookcommunitychurch.org Rev. chuck Van Houten, Pastor Connecting people to God, purpose and each other Sunday Worship 10:00 am Sunday School 10:00 am

Renewing, Restoring, Reviving for the 21st Century!

PRESBYTERIAN

SETAUKET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

5 Caroline Avenue ~ On the Village Green (631) 941-4271

Making God’s community livable for all since 1660!! www.setauketpresbyterian.org Email: setauketpresbyterian@verizon.net

Rev. Mary, Barrett Speers, pastor Rev. Dr. Craig Malbon, Visiting Minister

Religious Directory continued on next page

METHODIST BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 33 Christian Ave/ PO2117 E. Setauket NY 11733 (631) 941–3581 Rev. Gregory L. Leonard–Pastor

Sunday Worship 10:30 am Adult Sunday School 9:30 am Lectionary Reading and Prayer Wed. 12 noon Gospel Choir Tues. 8 pm Praise Choir and Youth Choir 3rd and 4th Fri. 6:30 pm

COMMACK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 486 Townline Road, Commack Church Office: (631)499–7310 Fax: (631) 858–0596 www.commack–umc.org • mail@commack–umc.org Rev. Linda Bates–Stepe, Pastor

Rabbi Sharon L. Sobel Cantor Carol Chesler Rabbi Emeritus Stephen A. Karol Rabbi Emeritus Adam D. Fisher Cantor Emeritus Michael F. Trachtenberg

Sabbath Services Friday 7:30 pm and Saturday 10 am Religious School • Monthly Family Service • Monthly Tot Shabbat Youth Groups • Senior Club • Adult Education Sisterhood • Brotherhood • Book Club-more

To be listed in the Religious Directory, please call 631–751–7663

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A warm and caring intergenerational community dedicated to learning, prayer, social action, and friendship.

Member Union for Reform Judaism

PAGE A26 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

Tom Manuel hitting the high notes at Stony Brook’s The Jazz Loft

By JOHN BROVEN On May 21, Stony Brook Village reverberated to the sounds of a New Orleans-style street parade to mark the opening of The Jazz Loft at 275 Christian Ave. That happy day brought to reality the dreams of president and founder Tom Manuel.

“In the brief seven months the Jazz Loft has been open we’ve been able to accomplish the goals of our mission well ahead of schedule,” Manuel said. “Our performance calendar has presented some of the finest local, national and international artists; our educational programming has established our pre-college Jazz Institute in collaboration with Stony Brook University; and Our Young at Heart program has introduced wonderful music therapy events to people with memory loss.

“In addition to all of this our lecture series, family concerts, sponsored concert series and acquisitions and installations of jazz memorabilia, art, photography and more are ongoing and ever growing.”

For establishing The Jazz Loft so quickly and effectively as a community resource, Manuel, a 37-year-old educator, historian and trumpet player, from St. James, is recognized by TBR News Media as a Person of the Year.

“Tom Manuel is a well-deserving nominee for Person of the Year,” Brookhaven Councilwoman Valerie Cartright (D-Port Jefferson Station) said. “The Jazz Loft is an incredible gift to the 1st Council District. Tom’s passion for jazz has been transformed into a vivid, vibrant, collection of jazz history and a home for local talent, musicians and performances. In a short time,

The Jazz Loft has become an incredible community space for art, history, culture and music.”

Visitors are able to view the loft’s museum exhibits featuring greats such as saxophonist Louis Jordan, the biggest AfricanAmerican star of the 1940s and a massive influence on the ensuing rock ’n’ roll era; heartthrob blues and jazz crooner Arthur Prysock; upright bassist Lloyd Trotman, a prolific session musician who provided the bass line on Ben E. King’s anthem, “Stand by Me”; society bandleader Lester Lanin; and the seafaring vibraphonist and composer Teddy Charles.

Jean Prysock, of Searingtown, donated the memorabilia of her late husband Arthur Prysock, who played the top theaters and clubs from the 1940s onward and recorded for labels such as Decca, Mercury, Old Town and MGMVerve. Why did she feel Manuel was worthy of support?

“He was young, he was enthusiastic, he was dedicated, he was sincere,” she said. “I first met him at a jazz bar in Patchogue. He led an 11-piece band, which sounded as if it could have played at New York’s Paramount Theatre.”

Apart from conducting bands, Manuel is an expert trumpet player, who credits among his inspirations Chet Baker, Warren Vache, Bobby Hackett, Harry “Sweets” Edison and Roy Eldridge. As an indication of the Jazz Loft’s authentic atmosphere, Manuel said the impressive three-tier bandstand was constructed from the original dance floor of the famed Roseland Ballroom on New York’s 52nd Street, adding, “It was an extreme labor of love, but cer-

Photo from The Jazz Loft

Tom Manuel with children during The Creole Love Song: Operation Haiti! mission. tainly worth the effort.”

Manuel has directed a full program at The Jazz Loft while holding an adjunct post at Suffolk County Community College and a faculty position with Stony Brook University directing the jazz program of the Pre-College Music Division. If that’s not all, he has recently completed his doctorate, a DMA in jazz performance, at SBU and carried out charity work in Haiti.

“Tom is fully deserving of this award, not only for creating The Jazz Loft and making jazz available in our area, but also because of his remarkable spirit in bettering every community with which

Religious UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP AT STONY BROOK

380 Nicolls Road • between Rte 347 & Rte 25A (631) 751–0297 • www.uufsb.org • office@uufsb.org

Rev. Margaret H. Allen (minister@uufsb.org) Sunday Service: 10:30 am

Religious Education at UUFSB: Unitarian Universalism accepts wisdom from many sources and offers non-dogmatic religious education for children from 3-18 to foster ethical and spiritual development and knowledge of world religions. Classes Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. Childcare for little ones under three. Senior High Youth Group meetings Sunday evenings.

Registration is ongoing. For more information: dre@uufsb.org.

he engages,” Perry Goldstein, professor and chair at SBU’s Department of Music, said.

“He motivated seven volunteers to go to Haiti with him after the recent hurricane, where they distributed 200 pairs of sneakers, clothing and school supplies purchased through donations. Tom radiates positive energy in everything he does,” Goldstein said.

Manuel readily acknowledges the help of others in giving liftoff to The Jazz Loft, including board members Laura Vogelsberg and Laura Stiegelmaier, many musicians and sponsors Harlan and Olivia Fischer who “donated our

sound system, which is quite outstanding.” Manuel’s philosophy is summarized by the title of his well-received talk at the Three Village Community Trust’s annual celebration, held at The Jazz Loft in November: “Collaboration: The Art of Possibility.”

The jazz facility is housed in a historic building, comprising the old Stone Jug tavern and the former firehouse station, which accommodated the first museum in Stony Brook, founded in 1935 by real estate broker and insurance agent O.C. Lempfert. With the backing of Ward and Dorothy Melville, the museum was formally incorporated as the Suffolk Museum in 1939 before evolving into today’s The Long Island Museum. The renovated building, which was accorded landmark status by the Town of Brookhaven in September, is leased long term to The Jazz Loft by The Ward Melville Heritage Organization.

“Tom Manuel is a unique individual who was born into a generation of musicians steeped in rock ’n’ roll, rap and new wave,” Gloria Rocchio, president of WMHO, said. “I got to know Tom because of a[n] … article about a ‘young man’ with a house full of artifacts and memorabilia relating to the jazz era. The Ward Melville Heritage Organization owned a vacant building … and Tom had a collection in need of a home. A year later The Jazz Loft opened in Stony Brook, where Tom shares his love of jazz with like-minded musicians and fans. Tom is truly a role model for the concept of accomplishing your dream through passion and dedication. We are proud to welcome The Jazz Loft and Dr. Tom Manuel into our community.”

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UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF HUNTINGTON

109 Brown’s Road, Huntington, NY 11743 631–427–9547

UNITY UNITY CHURCH OF HEALING LIGHT 203 East Pulaski Rd., Huntington Sta. (631) 385–7180 www.unityhuntingtonny.org

www.uufh.org

Rev. G. Jude Geiger, Minister

(minister@uufh.org) Starr Austin, religious educator (dreuufh@gmail.com) Sunday Service 10:30 am, Children’s Religious Education 10:30 am Whoever you are, whomever you love, wherever you are on your life’s journey, you are welcome here.

Our services offer a progressive, non-creedal message with room for spiritual seekers.

Services and Religious Education each Sunday at 10:30 am Youth Group, Lifespan Religious Education for Adults, Adult and Children’s Choirs. Participants in the Huntington Interfaith Housing Initiative. Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Rev. Saba Mchunguzi

Unity Church of Healing Light is committed to helping people unfold their Christ potential to transform their lives and build spiritual community through worship, education, prayer and service.

Sunday Worship & Church School 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Service 7:30 p.m.

Sign Language Interpreter at Sunday Service

To be listed in the Religious Directory, please call 631–751–7663

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A27

Local veterans help serve each other and the community

By Victoria Espinoza victoria@tbrnewspapers.com Greenlawn American Legion Post 1244 has been giving back to the community since its inception in 1946. From returning veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, to student outreach programs designed to improve leadership skills, to efforts to recover veterans’ remains, the post’s work is seemingly never finished.

Members of the post are actively involved in national and local efforts to help improve the lives of veterans, though they also work to locate remains of veterans from conflicts as far back as the Spanish American War of 1898.

For their dedication to the community and veterans alike, Times Beacon Record News Media has chosen the members of the Greenlawn American Legion Post as People of the Year.

The post has been involved in the Missing in America Project since 2009, a national nonprofit organization that works to locate and identify the unclaimed cremated remains of American veterans to provide a final resting place as a sign of honor and respect to those who have served the United States.

John Calderelli, a member of the Greenlawn post as well as a national representative of the Missing in America Project, said he above photo from Bob santos; file photo below felt compelled to work with the organization once he heard there were veteran remains Members of the american Legion Greenlawn post participate in a ceremony laying to rest the remains of veterans whose ashes were lost in funeral homes for years. stored in funeral homes across the country.

“That bothered me — it really didn’t sit well with me,” Calderelli said in a phone in- loosened up.

Commack High School and St. Anthony’s with disabilities through service dogs. terview. “When you go into the service and “Before long, he was laughing and joking He spoke to students at Oldfield Middle High School. They have raised more than make that agreement, there is an unwritten the way we do,” Santos said in an interview. School and said the kids are eager to learn $25,000 in recent years alone. covenant that you will be buried in a federal “I saw him change. It’s a beautiful event.”

Charlie Armstrong, a legion member who about their time overseas. cemetery with all your comrades in arms.

Santos said the post is working with Sail “The kids were really excited about hav- works with the Boys and Girls State program To think veterans are lying on shelves for Ahead to develop more frequent sailing trips ing us,” Kirsch said in a phone interview. says the experience is priceless for the students. over 100 years. I think that’s wrong.”

“We, of course, do a lot to help the veterthat allow veterans to take each other sailing The program is not only beneficial for Calderelli said he was outans in the community, but this is when we on donated ships. students, but for veterans as well. raged and couldn’t believe how Bruce Blanco leads the “It’s very important for these veterans, get to reach out to the youth and help them, ‘To think veterans many veterans were unidentiAmerican Legion Riders especially Vietnam-era veterans, because because they are our future,” he said in a fied — and he still can’t believe are lying on shelves chapter in Greenlawn. The we were not encouraged to talk about our phone interview. “It’s nice both ends of the how many more veterans he’s group of motorcyclists; who experiences when we came back,” Santos, spectrum are being helped. It’s reassuring to for over 100 years.

I found since then. “I feel lucky I escort military units return- who served from 1966 to 1970, said. “We know there is a future happening, and these can help them,” he said. think that’s wrong. I ing home from combat came back to a different world. The coun- kids are all so enthusiastic about it.”

The post has helped lay Armstrong also educates Boy Scouts tours overseas, conducts try changed; the military was blamed for a to rest at least 100 soldiers, feel lucky I can help’ cross-country fundraising lot. We were called baby killers. And you and Girl Scouts in the community about including two from the Civil — John Calderelli events for wounded war- shrugged it off; but it left a mark.” flag etiquette and retirement, which inWar. They organize burial riors and raises funds for Santos said Americans’ indifference cludes how to handle and fold a flag and ceremonies for all the veterhow to properly dispose of one. countless local, state and back home was the hardest to deal with. ans they find. Some ceremonies have in- national charities.

“We show the proper respect for the “We felt that they were indifferent to cluded rider-less horses, Civil War re-enacIn 2016 alone, the riders have partici- what we had experienced,” he said. “They flag and how the flag is seen as a symbol tors, and dove releases. pated in more than 250 missions. couldn’t relate to it, they didn’t want to and of freedom from oppression to other counThe Greenlawn post actively works with tries around the world,” he said.

“I never want to see this disappear,” they were just glad it was over.”

Sail Ahead, a nonprofit organization that Blanco said in an interview. “The riders The post has also helped support stuThe former post commander said it’s uses sailing and the ocean therapeutically are trying to bring attention to what the important veterans talk about it with kids dents who compete in the annual Amerito help veterans with various service-related American Legion does, and help to try and to help heal and teach students about the can Legion High School Oratorical Contest, physical disabilities and illnesses, including make it grow.” a public speaking contest that awards colimportance of their service. traumatic brain injury and PTSD. For the The post does more than just support felThe post also sponsors students on a lege scholarships to students. past two years, the post has worked with low veterans; they also regularly give back to weeklong trip to learn about democracy Current Post Commander Dennis Madthem to take veterans out sailing for a day of the community with educational programs. den said he thinks the work the post does and build strong leadership skills. relaxation on the Long Island Sound. This Vets in the Classroom is an annual event The Boys and Girls State is a program with the community helps residents look at past July, more than 140 veterans and fam- that takes place at Oldfield Middle School, meant for high school juniors travel upstate veterans differently. ily members enjoyed a day of sailing and a where veterans talk to students about their and run for office, learn public speaking, “We’re teaching kids about Americanism, barbeque at Centerport Yacht Club. experience of serving their country. create and enforce laws, and actively partic- what it means to be a dedicated citizen,” Bob Santos, a past commander of the Ken Kirsch served in the U.S. Army as a ipate in all phases of creating and running a Madden said in a phone interview, talking Greenlawn post, said the day is for both war dog handler from 1979 to 1990 and is working government. about the school programs they work with. enjoying and relaxing. Santos, who was also a member of America’s VetDogs, a nonThe post sponsors the trip and raises “The general public now sees the veterans awarded Legionare of the Year for the 10th profit that provides enhanced mobility and money to send as many students as they in a different light, as citizens to the counDistrict of New York for 2016, said he was renewed independence to veterans, active- can every summer from Harborfields try rather than military men and women. It sitting with a veteran who was a victim of duty service members, and first responders High School, Walt Whitman High School, shows we’re regular people.”

PTSD and as soon as the boats took off, he

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PAGE A28 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 29, 2016

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