The South Shore Press 1/17/24

40TH YEAR • ISSUE 3

The People̕s Newspaper - Covering All of Suffolk County

TIERNEY ANNOUNCES CHARGE IN FOURTH GILGO MURDER CASE Photos Credit: Robert Chartuk

January 17, 2024

DISTRICT ATTORNEY RAY TIERNEY UPDATES THE MEDIA AND PUBLIC REGARDING THE GILGO BEACH CASE.

Photo Credit: SCPD

L TO R: GILGO BEACH MURDER SUSPECT REX HEUERMANN, 59; SUSPECTED MURDER VICTIM MAUREEN BRAINARD-BARNES, 25.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

LOCAL

Sheriff Gathers Gang Intelligence in El Salvador

By Robert Chartuk Gathering intelligence to combat MS 13, 18th Street, and other Central America gangs in Suffolk County was the purpose of a recent trip to El Salvador by Sheriff Errol Toulon, who toured a new megaprison built by President Nayib Bukele in an aggressive effort to crack down on crime. The Sheriff met with international stakeholders to coordinate anti-gang policing and gave some tips to his Central American counterparts on his efforts to crack down on gangrelated crime in the U.S. Toulon and Undersheriff Kevin Catalina were the first two Americans to visit the maximum security prison, which was built as a national priority to lock up gang members who had terrorized El Salvador. So wide was their reach that they controlled criminal activities in the U.S., including Suffolk, which was rocked by gang-related murders of school children and deadly drug-related crimes. Rooting out the gangs became a priority for Suffolk law enforcement, and keeping an eye on them in Toulon's facilities is a key part of their strategy.

"In collaboration with our law

enforcement partners–the district attorney and the police department– we have changed the trajectory of how we deal with gangs in Suffolk County," Toulon said. "We're working very vigorously against all of the gangs that are acting in a criminal manner. We're able to identify individuals in the system and prevent issues from growing to a point where we have gang wars in our streets and other problems that could arise from gang-related activity."

According to Toulon, many high-level gang members are incarcerated, making it difficult to direct their operations. "Now they're relying on other people to carry out their decisions, and so, collectively, the law enforcement community is able to identify these individuals and stop potential acts of violence and solve crimes that have already been committed."

Toulon first visited El Salvador when he was with the New York City Department of Corrections.

"I was able to wear my uniform on my recent trip; in 2018, I would not have dared wear my uniform at all," he said, noting that there was a different feeling of safety in the country under the new president.

Talk at Huntington Cinema Arts Center Journalist Karl Grossman will be the major speaker at a conference on Sunday, January 21st on current threats involving nuclear war. It has been organized

by Long Island peace groups and will be held at the Huntington Cinema Arts Centre between 2 and 4:30 p.m.

There will be the showing of the film “The Vow from Hiroshima” about Setsuko Takeuchi, a survivor of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima active with the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons.

Grossman for 20 years was a member of the Commission on Disarmament Education, Conflict Resolution and Peace

FREKEET

MAR IS S ANALY

of the United Nations and International Association of University Presidents. Books he has written include Weapons In Space. Most recently, a book he co-authored with historian Christopher Verga, Cold War Long Island, was published.

The conference is being sponsored by the Long Island Alliance for Peaceful Alternatives, North Country Peace Group, South Country Peace Group, Pax Christi Long Island, Peace Action New York State, and the Long Island chapter of Veterans for Peace.

For more information visit https://cinemaartscentre.org

"It was very important for me to walk on the soil of El Salvador and understand what's going on. I was able to meet the U.S. ambassador to El Salvador, Homeland Security, our military, in addition to elected leaders and police officials," the Sheriff said, adding that he also visited the International Law Enforcement Academy, one of only six in the world.

President Bukele made cracking down on the gangs his top campaign platform and was propelled into office by Salvadorans sick of the crime wave sweeping across the country. In building the new super prison, he stopped all construction in the country from using concrete until the $130 million jail was completed and emergency anti-gang measures were instituted. More than 65,000 have been arrested in Bukele's nationwide sweep, with the justice minister vowing "they will never return to the streets." Cell service is banned within a mile of the prison to eliminate communication with the outside, and contraband–drugs, weapons, and prostitutes–is strictly prohibited.

Photo Credit: Sheriff Toulon

Sheriff Errol Toulon with his counterparts in El Salvador.

Here in Suffolk, the Sheriff said the drug trade and turf wars are the two biggest issues when it comes to gang activity. As illicit drugs such as heroin and cocaine make their way down to the street level, they are mixed with fentanyl and other harmful substances to increase their volume. To help combat the scourge, Toulon set up a prison-based Correction Intelligence Center to gather information about illegal activities

among the gangs and share it with other jurisdictions. "We have more than 50 partners throughout the United States and other countries, including El Salvador, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, the U.K., and Australia, who send us information regarding issues that are occurring in their jails," the Sheriff noted.

This constant flow of intelligence helps local law enforcement keep residents safe.

South Country BOE Recognizes National Award-Winning Teacher The South Country Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Antonio Santana presented Bellport High School teacher Andrew Budris with a certificate of achievement during a board meeting on Jan. 10.

In December, Budris was named the 2023-2024 Secondary Teacher of the Year by the National Council for the Social Studies. This is the second impressive award that Budris has earned for his teaching. Last year, he was recognized by the New York State Council for the Social Studies with the distinguished Outstanding High School Social Studies Classroom Teacher Award.

“We are very proud of Mr. Budris’ achievements,” said Santana.

Budris accepted the recognition, thanking administrators, colleagues and students for his success.

Photo Credit: South Country School District Bellport High School teacher Andrew Budris was presented with a certificate of achievement at the South Country School District’s Board of Education meeting on Jan. 10 for being named the 2023-2024 Secondary Teacher of the Year by the National Council for the Social Studies.

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LOCAL

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 3

Tierney Announces Charge in Fourth Gilgo Murder Case

By Robert Chartuk A new murder charge has been leveled by Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney against the man being held for three other killings in the notorious Gilgo cold case.

Massapequa Park architect Rex Heuermann was charged Tuesday in the death of Maureen BrainardBarnes, whose body was found along with a dozen others along a desolate stretch of Ocean Parkway

by Gilgo Beach nearly 14 years ago in a case that confounded police and unnerved Long Islanders.

Heuermann was arrested by Tierney’s Gilgo Beach Homicide Investigation Task Force last July for the slayings of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Lynn Costello years after their remains were discovered when police were searching for another woman, Shannan Gilbert, who went missing in 2010. Heuermann appeared before Supreme Court Justice Timothy Mazzei in Riverhead with his attorney, Michael J. Brown, who entered a plea of not guilty. Heuermann was remanded back to prison with no bail by Judge Mazzei.

In court were Tierney, who is trying the case against Heuermann himself, and Melissa Cann, sister of Brainard-Barnes, a mother of two from Connecticut. They were flanked by members of the

Gilgo Task Force, which includes investigators from Sheriff Erroll Toulon’s office, Suffolk Police, State police, and the FBI, in addition to district attorney personnel.

Heuermann's estranged wife, Asa Ellerup, was also in the chamber, along with their daughter, Victoria Heuermann.

According to Tierney, the case was cracked following a lead tying Amber Lynn Costello to Heuermann’s vehicle, which the investigators were able to locate. Once they had a suspect, investigators retrieved Heuermann’s DNA from a discarded pizza box they said matched that of a hair found with the body of Megan Waterman.

Evidence also includes phone and computer records tying the suspect to the victims. Also found on his devices were disturbing images and search histories involving torture, rape, and murder, investigators reported. Heuermann made more than 200 internet searches seeking updates on the Gilgo investigation, including how the task force was looking into cell phones related to the case, Tierney reported.

Released last year in order to generate tips on the case were photos of a belt that had been used to bind Brainard-Barnes with the initials WH or HM. DNA from Ellerup was also matched to a victim, investigators said. Her attorney, Robert Macedonio, stressed that

details in the case "again make it clear" that Heuermann's wife and children were not involved, or even in the jurisdiction, when the alleged crimes took place, according to published reports.

Police would eventually uncover 12 bodies in the case, and found remains at other locations that match the Gilgo victims. Gilbert, a 23-year-old from Jersey City whose disappearance led to the Gilgo discoveries, was found more than a year later mired in a tidal marsh in Oak Beach, not far from the other bodies. Jessica Taylor's partial remains were found in the area eight years after parts of her body were discovered in Manorville.

Valerie Mack, as well as the skeletal remains of an unidentified Asian male, estimated to be between 17 and 23 years old, were found.

Further investigations in 2011 led to the discovery of partial remains belonging to a woman described as "Peaches," for a tattoo on her body, who is suspected of being the mother of a toddler found earlier.

The skull of a woman was found near Gilgo, whose remains were linked to those found on Fire Island in 1996. Tierney said the task force is actively pursuing those cases.

As the Heuermann investigation unfolded, between 200 and 300 firearms were found in a vault concealed in a walled-off area of his basement, including pistols,

Photo Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office | Facebook

Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon and Acting Suffolk County Police Commissioner Robert Waring, along with additional members of the Gilgo Beach Homicide Investigation Task Force, held a press conference in Riverhead, New York revealing a significant development in the investigation by the Gilgo Beach Homicide Investigation Task Force.

revolvers, and semi-automatic rifles. The murders horrified Long Islanders and led to endless speculation about who committed the crimes. Former Suffolk Police Chief Steve Burke had waved off federal assistance in the case, and former district attorney Tom Spota, who’s currently in jail on corruption convictions, came up fruitless. He was charged with covering up the beating by Burke of a suspect who stole a duffle bag from his official vehicle that contained sex tapes and other pornographic items. Burke also served time for the beating and the subsequent coverup, along with Chris McPartland, Spota’s chief deputy, recently released from federal prison.

“I commend District Attorney Tierney, the Suffolk County Police Department, Sheriff Toulon and all the law-enforcement partners of the Gilgo Beach Homicide Investigation Task Force on their sustained work,” said county Executive Edward Romaine in a statement. “These victims matter and the seriousness with which the task force has methodically pursued solving these cases is impressive.

My administration is committed to making Suffolk County safer by providing the district attorney and the police department, as well as our other law-enforcement agencies, in Suffolk County, the tools and resources they need to ensure that they continue this great work.”

Presidential Primary Prompts MMS Library to Swap Machines for Paper Ballots April 2 is the Presidential primary election, which is a county-wide election, meaning every polling place will be used for election day plus 27 sites for the nine days of early voting leading up to the election.

All voting machines will be in use along with all personnel."

Photos Credit: South Shore Press

By Raheem Soto The Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library has decided to utilize paper ballots for its upcoming budget and trustee election scheduled for April 2, 2024.

This shift from electronic voting machines directly responds to the unavailability of voting machines due to the concurrent presidential primary taking place on the same day.

The library's annual vote, crucial for determining its budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year and electing its trustees, will proceed at the Mastic Beach Satellite Branch at 369 Neighborhood Road. Voting will be open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Library Director Kerri Rosalia explained the reasoning behind this change, stating, "Our trustees weighed the available options and determined that this was the only practical way to proceed. Our statemandated calendar made this the best option."

As a spokesperson for the library stated, "The budget for the upcoming fiscal year will be discussed at the next meeting, and no further details were available at the time of this article."

Betty Manzella, the Board of Elections Commissioner for Suffolk County, shed light on the challenges of the presidential primary. She stated, "As you probably know,

Manzella highlighted the impact on auxiliary districts, explaining, "Similarly, Villages hold their elections on March 19 and will be unable to use our voting machines.

When these auxiliary districts (Village, School, Library, Fire, and Ambulance districts) use our voting machines, it requires us to program and test the machine for them, transport the machines to their site, and assign a machine technician to their site to troubleshoot or handle any machine issues that might arise.

This will not be possible this year because of the Presidential primary election, whose date is set by the State Legislature and State Board of Elections in accordance with NYS Election law."

She further elaborated, "We have sent a letter out to all auxiliary districts advising them that voting machines will be unavailable. We can only offer them ballot boxes instead."

The decision to switch to paper ballots underscores the complex logistical challenges of the simultaneous presidential

primary election. It ensures the library's election process continues, upholding transparency and public participation. The library's community looks forward to the

upcoming budget discussion in the next meeting, which remains a crucial aspect of their governance and planning.

Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through Art

Photo Credit: Southampton Union Free School District

Mikela LLagzha Atariguana and Waverly Hoffman.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Month, Southampton High School Mural and Set Design students worked collaboratively for over a month to create a mural of handprints that represent the feeling Claudette Colvin had when she was told

to get up from her seat on the bus when traveling home from school in 1955. Colvin felt that Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman's hands were on her shoulders keeping her in the seat. The four-foot mural will be auctioned to support the East End Arts’ Art Scholarship Fund.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

LOCAL

Former County Executive Offers Advice to the New Suffolk Leader

By Robert Chartuk Separated from the role 12 years ago, former County Executive Steve Levy weighed in with some friendly advice for the new executive, Edward Romaine, in an open letter that keyed in on some of the successes--and challenges-of his administration. Looking to assist the former Brookhaven supervisor in his transition to the highest post in county government, Levy proclaimed, “His success will be ours.”

Levy notes that Romaine is fortunate to be taking the helm when local governments are flush with cash, thanks to hundreds of millions of dollars given nearly unconditionally from the federal government during COVID, but urges him to tread with fiscal caution as further one-shot revenue enhancers may not be on the horizon.

Referencing the new county executive’s inauguration speech, Levy wrote: “Mr. Romaine wisely noted that in the year prior to COVID, Suffolk was ranked as the most fiscally stressed county in the state. His predecessor inherited a balanced budget (contrary to the claims that there was a deficit) and a record-high bond rating but faced an economic storm due to a crippling recession. The national economic downturn, coupled with

a huge police contract and use of one-shots such as selling the fully paid off Dennison building, only to lease it back, led to numerous rating agency downgrades.” In addition to the Dennison deal, which former county Executive Steve Bellone announced was now back in county hands just before leaving office at the end of the year, Suffolk’s coffers were flooded with sales tax revenue generated by government stimulus checks. “Those one-shots will run out, so implementing efficiencies is essential,” Levy advised Romaine.

Levy enjoyed a popular run in Hauppauge, having previously served as a state assemblyman and county legislator at the same time Romaine also sat at the governing horseshoe. His challenger in his first election for county executive in 2003 was none other than Ed Romaine, who was serving as county clerk at the time. A Democrat, Levy switched to Republican to run for governor in 2010 but didn’t make it into the GOP primary in a year that saw Andrew Cuomo take the Albany throne. Levy’s ambitions raised the political ire of thenDistrict Attorney Tom Spota, a former Republican who switched to Democrat, who came after him on campaign funding charges. The two cut a deal that saw Levy give up his office and turn over hundreds of thousands of donor dollars to Spota, the details of which have never been

publicly disclosed despite various court challenges.

“Mr. Romaine wisely stressed the building of sewers, supporting economic development, and cleaning our environment,” Levy went on. “Good priorities, but let's hope these measures could be pursued without seeking a sales tax increase when so many hundreds of millions of dollars are available in the present budget due to COVID surpluses.” Levy has been an outspoken opponent of Bellone’s plan to create a countywide sewer district and raise the sales tax an eighth of a percent to build new sewers and upgrade private cesspools. Romaine is in favor of the plan, pledging to broker an agreement on a 50-50 split between sewer and cesspool funding and take it to the state for approval with a home rule message from the county legislature. The measure would then need to go to the voters in a referendum, which Romaine said will take place in November.

“The best thing to spend oneshot revenues on is a one-time, nonrecurring expenditure such as constructing a sewer,” Levy opined. “That’s preferable to adding positions or programs that will have to be supported every year thereafter.” He patted himself on the back, stating that Romaine “chose wisely in placing my former chief deputy county executive, Kevin

Law, and Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter to guide his transition.

Hopefully, the team can share with the executive the success we had in 2004 in creating a Workforce Housing Department that provided grants for municipalities willing to build up their housing stock in downtown corridors. It was remarkably successful, as witnessed with Patchogue’s renaissance, and dovetails nicely with Mr. Romaine’s housing policies,” he said.

Levy also recommended the reconstitution of the Long Island Purchasing Consortium, which brought together Suffolk and Nassau, as well as towns, fire departments, and schools, to coordinate high-volume purchases.

“Having different jurisdictions buy 1,000 cars at one time gets you a much better discount than buying ten at a time,” Levy noted. The program had been discontinued under Bellone.

“We’re also happy to see the search for a qualified police commissioner,” Levy continued. “We cannot have a repeat of a rogue police leader being allowed to dismantle the FBI task force I created. Kicking out the feds led to a slowdown in the Gilgo search and a reconstituting of MS 13 throughout the county (which led to the murders of dozens of Suffolk youth).” A scandal involving former police chief Jim Burke, the rogue leader referred to by Levy, along

with Spota and his deputy, Chris McPartland, has left an indelible stain on Suffolk law enforcement.

Spota is currently in federal prison for covering up a beating by Burke of a man accused of stealing a bag containing ammunition, sex toys, and pornography from Burke’s police vehicle. McPartland was recently released from jail for the coverup, while Burke, having served his sentence, has charges pending for exposing himself to an undercover county Park Ranger.

Levy touched on the Thomas Valva scandal, stating, “And to build on his goal to further protect our children, the new executive can reinstate my policy of requiring automatic backfills for vacancies in Child Protective Services.”

Romaine, who has said revamping CPS is one of his priorities, was not immediately available to comment on Levy’s advice.

Finally, the former county executive said, “There was a dire need to push back against Gov. Hochul’s contentious plans to overrule local zoning, impose an MTA tax on Suffolk businesses, and enact congestion pricing fees.

Hopefully, Mr. Romaine will lead that charge. He can start by replacing Suffolk’s present rep on the MTA board who, remarkably, voted in favor of congestion pricing that will crush Suffolk commuters.”

Mazzarella Sets Ambitious Course for 2024 library, as well as the new library branches, benefitted from Innovative Alternative Wastewater treatment systems. “By utilizing these new advanced systems, the library will be working with the community in an effort to reduce nitrogen pollution and protect the waterways surrounding our beautiful waterfront community,” he said.

By Robert Chartuk Breaking ground for a new Smith Point Bridge, creating a new park at Violet’s Cove, and getting shovel ready for the expansion of sewers into the Mastic Peninsula are a few of the goals set for 2024 by Suffolk Legislator Jim Mazzarella.

He’s also looking forward to the completion of the massive Forge River Watershed Sewer Project and improvements to the Shirley Marina as he begins his second full term in office.

Mazzarella is well positioned to bring home the bacon to the 3rd District with his appointment to the legislature’s operating budget, capital budget, and community college budget working groups. He’s a board member of the county Sewer Agency and the Suffolk Land Bank.

In the wake of the cyber-attack that crippled county operations for months, Mazzarella was appointed to the legislature’s cybersecurity investigatory committee. With its findings due out early this year, the committee is expected to make key recommendations on how the county can protect itself from further attacks.

The legislator’s agenda for the new year follows some major accomplishments in 2023. On the job for two and a half years, having replaced former legislator Rudy Sunderman and fending off former legislator Kate Browning

Photo Credit: Legislator Jim Mazzarella

Legislator Jim Mazzarella in two elections, Mazzarella worked towards the preservation of hundreds of acres of open space, sponsored a ban on vaping devices camouflaged to resemble school supplies, and partnered with Brookhaven Town to create the Violet Cove Advisory Council.

He also authored legislation to designate the month of September as “Recovery Month” in Suffolk to raise awareness for individuals and families combating addiction and help overcome the stigmas for those seeking treatment.

"I am proud of all the work I have accomplished this past year," Mazzarella stated. "I want to ensure that I am doing everything within my power to be an effective legislator and deliver for the residents of the 3rd Legislative District."

Photo Credit: Legislator Jim Mazzarella

Legislator Jim Mazzarella and his staff According to the legislator, the Forge River sewer district will undoubtedly have a considerable impact on the Mastic/Shirley community both economically and environmentally.

On the drawing board for nearly a half century, the project is more than halfway complete with pipes already installed and the treatment plant adjacent to Calabro Airport taking shape. In the coming months, work will begin to connect individual properties and paving will continue on all the roadways affected by the construction, Mazzarella noted. Planning for Phase 3 of the project is projected to begin this year, in addition to sewers for the Neighborhood Road Business District under the massive Beechwood redevelopment plan.

To further assist in the expansion

of sewers and to aid small business owners, Mazzarella has established an assistance program offering grants and low interest loans to offset sewer connection costs along Montauk Highway. The area’s main thoroughfare will also see a beautification effort across the Mastic/Shirley corridor.

“In order to see improvement in our area, we need to make investments in our community,” Mazzarella said. “I am confident that through my efforts to secure Capital Budget amendments, we will see positive changes that both our present and future generations will benefit from.”

Legislator Mazzarella has also worked closely with the MasticsMoriches-Shirley Community Library to help ensure that construction of their new main

In addition to the environmental funding, Mazzarella nailed down a $1 Million grant for an outdoor program area to be located directly across the street from the Mastic Beach Branch. The grants not only help the library to accomplish their goal of providing services to the community, but help to ease the library district taxes, he noted.

“While positive progress has been made in this past year there is still much work to be done. In my new term as legislator, I am looking forward to breaking ground on these significant projects, including the long awaited Smith Point Bridge.

I pledge my continued efforts to work toward positive change to benefit all the residents of the 3rd legislative District,” Mazzarella said, adding that his office will “continue its focus on constituent services, open space preservation, quality of life issues, and sponsoring groundbreaking legislation for the benefit of all the residents of Suffolk County.”

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LOCAL

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Brookhaven Welcomes Panico Administration: A Fresh Start with Challenges Ahead applications through the town Building Department for quicker decisions. This move reflects the administration's dedication to balancing homeowner needs, supporting the local economy, and maintaining community harmony.

By Raheem Soto Supervisor Dan Panico officially kicked off his tenure in Brookhaven Town, ushering in a new era with strategic appointments and a proactive approach to looming challenges.

Panico solidified the administration's commitment to stability and fiscal responsibility in a recent organizational meeting.

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., was reappointed as Town Attorney, bringing a wealth of legal expertise to navigate the intricate landscape of Brookhaven's legal affairs. Concurrently, the Board's endorsement of real property appraisers underscores the administration's focus on sound fiscal practices, crucial for the town's future endeavors.

Resolution 2024-5 took center stage, outlining the appointment of legal firms with a specialized focus on environmental complexities. Michael Cahill, an expert in environmental legal matters, was enlisted as special counsel. This move showcases the administration's strategic preparedness for potential legal intricacies in the evolving landscape.

Brimming with optimism, Supervisor Panico shared his vision for the town's future. "I am going to lead this town in an effort to accomplish real goals

Screen Grab from Brookhaven Town Hall Video Supervisor Dan Panico at Brookhaven Town Hall.

for our residents—to bring about positive change, tackle the hard tasks, and be transparent about the issues, costs, and realities of town government."

The pressing issue of sewer expansion emerged as a top priority, aligning seamlessly with the administration's unwavering commitment to providing essential services for the growing community.

Economic development also took center stage, marked by strategic board appointments to bodies like the Town of Brookhaven Local Development Corporation and the Industrial Development Agency. These appointments are crucial for ensuring continuity in leadership and fostering

sustainable economic growth.

Transparent communication remains a cornerstone of the Panico administration, exemplified by the designation of official newspapers for legal notices. Though challenging, the decision to keep the landfill open reflects a measured approach. The administration must carefully assess waste management, environmental impact, and community sentiments surrounding this critical issue.

Addressing challenges posed by transient rentals, particularly the contentious issue of Airbnb, is on the administration's radar.

Panico proposed restructuring the review process, streamlining

Another area of scrutiny is the controversial AirEF Hub project, which has evoked mixed responses from the community.

As the administration takes the reins, its ability to navigate these diverse sentiments will play a pivotal role in the project's success. Panico wanted to streamline the review process for building projects, ensuring efficiency and transparency.

As the Panico administration embarks on its journey, decisions made in this inaugural meeting lay the groundwork for a year filled with challenges and opportunities. Residents seeking information or inquiries can contact Brookhaven Town Hall at 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, or by phone at 631-451-8696.

Additional details and resources are available on the Brookhaven Town Official Website. The Panico administration faces the future with a blend of experience, optimism, and a steadfast commitment to addressing the diverse needs of Brookhaven Town.

Brookhaven's Trash Talk: Landfill Extension Sparks Community Debate

By Raheem Soto In a pivotal decision, Supervisor Dan Panico announced an extension to the operational life of the Brookhaven Town landfill, stretching its existence until at least 2027. This strategic move, embedded within the existing closure plan, introduces a phased disposal of ash, potentially extending the timeline into 2028. The primary objective is to orchestrate a gradual transition, averting abrupt economic shocks while meeting the town's environmental obligations.

The extension has been prompted, in part, by Covanta, the waste management company responsible for exploring alternatives such as enhanced ash processing and a potential short-term extension of the Brookhaven contract. Supervisor Panico stressed the importance of a responsible and pragmatic approach, recognizing the intricacies of permanently shutting down the facility.

Contrary to former Supervisor Edward Romaine's initial projections of the landfill's closure by 2025 or 2026, this

recent extension has altered the anticipated timeline, sparking debates within the community about potential positive and negative impacts.

From an economic standpoint, the extension is a necessary buffer to counter expected financial downturns. Town budget officials anticipate a $4 million drop in revenue from landfill tipping fees, reflecting a 7% decrease from the initial $59 million projection. Supervisor Panico's decision aims to navigate this financial challenge gradually.

However, the Brookhaven Landfill Action and Remediation Group meets the extension with significant opposition. In a recent public statement, the group expressed deep disappointment: "We've been lied to again.

After years of promises that the landfill would close in 2024, the new Supervisor announced it would remain open for years to come. The crisis continues. The injustice grows. The need to fight back has never been greater!"

emissions control violations at the site. Environmental concerns have intensified, prompting community advocates, including the Brookhaven Landfill Action and Remediation Group, to call for a state attorney general inquiry into the materials dumped at the Brookhaven landfill. They express reservations about potential hazards associated with Covanta's ash disposal practices.

The decision to extend the landfill's operational life also faces scrutiny due to recent odor and

As the administration contemplates the renewal of the landfill's operating permit,

the delicate balance between economic imperatives and environmental responsibility is under close examination.

Supervisor Panico's explanation, amidst community backlash, provides insights into the complex decisions faced by officials in Brookhaven Town. The careful consideration of economic and environmental factors will continue to mold local waste management policies, leaving a lasting impact on community dynamics for years to come.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

LOCAL

Hometown Hero Hailed for Saving Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Home from Arson

By Barbara LaMonica "Being in the right place at the right time" is a cliche that certainly rings true in a real life drama that unfolded, where the story could have ended very differently.

Retired NYPD Officer Axel Dodson, who grew up in Central Islip, recounted during a recent interview with South Shore Press, how he and his older brother Kenny Dodson, also a retired NYPD officer, successfully apprehended a woman charged with attempting to commit arson on the childhood home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in December.

The Dodson brothers were wrapping up their vacation along the East Coast when they decided to take a detour to visit the Ebenezer Baptist Church and the nearby childhood home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., located in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park in Atlanta, Georgia. "We stopped by to take a few pictures of the grounds; it's an absolutely beautiful park that also holds the tombs of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King," Dodson noted. But after visiting the church, the Dodson brothers drove up to the childhood home of Dr. King, Jr., and stopped

to take a few pictures. That's when Axel recalls, "Someone said, 'Guys!

Come here!’ The guy told us a young woman was trying to burn Dr. King's childhood house down by pouring something that looked like gasoline around the porch," Dodson said.

That's when Dodson went into action. "I ran up to her and grabbed the lighter from her hand, and she started running down the block and across the street, so we hopped in our car, caught up with her and we saw she was running up a driveway and into a backyard; then as the woman was about to hop the fence, she turned around, threw her cell phone on the ground, and after that, she didn't put up much resistance," Dodson recounts. "I restrained her until police officers arrived, and I didn't let go of her until she was cuffed," Dodson explained.

appreciation for American History, and to be there and on historical ground and now I am part of that history. . ." Dodson was humbled as he recounted the whole experience which he says "all happened so fast."

Had the Dodson brothers not taken their unscheduled detour on their way back home to Suffolk County, the story may have ended up tragically with the loss of a dedicated Federal Landmark. Asked about his thoughts in the aftermath of the incident, Dodson, now a Bay Shore resident, said, "It's definitely special in a lot of ways. I'm a history buff, and have always had an

The Dodson brothers were

Photo Credit: Barbara LaMonica

Axel Dodson was honored for his heroic actions by his hometown school district. Pictured are Central Islip School Board members Glenn C. Mitchell and Michele Harriott, School Board Vice President Debra Cavanagh, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee, Axel Dodson, School Board President Luis Alcantara, and School Board members Jim Musumeci, Maureen Esposito and Ralph Delgado, Jr.

Dodson continued to share that after a little research, he discovered some surreal correlations or 'connections' between his family and that of Dr. King: "I found that my brother Kenny was born one day before Dr. King's 'I Have a Dream' speech, and my mom graduated high school the same year as Dr. King's assassination in 1968."

honored for their heroic actions

by NYPD. Closer to home, Axel, a 1996 graduate of Central Islip High School, was honored by the Central Islip Board of Education when the District gave him a hometown hero's welcome for his heroic actions. Dodson was introduced to his hometown community with his respectable resume of credentials that include, but not limited to enlisting in the United States Marine Corps for six years after graduating high school. He subsequently signed up with the New York National Guard's elite fighting 69th Infantry Division and served a year on active duty in

Iraq. Upon returning home from his Iraqi tour, Dodson rejoined the NYPD where he remained until his retirement in 2012.

So what's in store for Axel Dodson? He says he is perhaps contemplating authoring a book some time down the road. But immediately reflecting on the most recent string of events, Dodson reflected, "The whole thing was very symbolic. Martin Luther King, Jr. represented equality, justice and us getting along: and we had two black guys and two white guys working together in honor for his home."

Laws Against Drugged Driving on DA Agenda license of individuals charged with impaired driving.

By Robert Chartuk Appearing at a “Deadly Driving Rally for Change,” Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney was in Albany at the start of the state legislative session calling for the passage of a “Deadly Driving Bill’’ alongside lawmakers, victim families, and other district attorneys from across the state.

The group urged the legislature to close loopholes in the current law which make it difficult to arrest and prosecute individuals for operating a vehicle while obviously impaired.

The measure changes the definition of "drug" in the vehicle and traffic law to include any substance or combination of substances that impair, to any extent, physical or mental abilities. It also tightens up the definition of impairment and intoxication and provides that refusal to submit to a breath test and/or an oral or bodily fluid test shall be considered a traffic infraction.

“There is no one on our roads– driver, motorcyclist, bicyclist or pedestrian–who is immune from becoming a victim of a drugged driving crash,” Tierney said at the rally, which was sponsored by the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York. “Closing this loophole is important because we must do everything we can to stop the horrendous loss of lives on our roadways. Impaired is impaired.

Dangerous is dangerous, no matter whether it is alcohol or drugs,”

Photo Credit: District Attorney Raymond Tierney Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney appears in Albany with lawmakers, victim families, and other district attorneys from across the state to urge the passage of the “Deadly Driving Bill.”

Senator Dean Murray, a sponsor of the Deadly Driving bill, expressed alarm over a dramatic increase in hit-and-run accidents on Long Island that has coincided with the legalization of marijuana.

“They’re driving high, and they flee the scene because they don’t want to get caught,” Murray said. “It doesn’t take a genius to figure out what’s going on here.”

“New York State's recreational marijuana program and the explosion of illegal cannabis sales in our convenience stores and smoke shops has made one thing crystal clear: our roads have more drivers impaired by the use of drugs than ever before,” Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon said at the rally. “Yet our laws are woefully inadequate in addressing the danger that these drivers pose to fellow motorists, passengers,

and pedestrians.” McMahon also called for more Drug Recognition Experts to carry out field sobriety examinations, particularly to discern if drivers are high on weed.

Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, when he voted against legalizing recreational cannabis, had warned of the difficulties in dealing with people driving while high. “The current law requires specialists to determine what the person was high on. We all knew that wasn’t going to work,” DeStefano said.

According to Tierney, the new law would eliminate the often-impossible requirement of specifically identifying the drug that is impairing a drugged driver.

It will also aid in the prosecution of offenders by expanding the probable cause for evidential blood draws and automatically suspend the driver's

“Public safety isn’t just about responding when tragedy strikes; it’s also about prevention. Albany County has seen far too many fatal traffic crashes in recent years that were completely avoidable,” said Albany County District Attorney David Soares. “The Deadly Driving Bill would allow this office to engage in prevention by streamlining the process for prosecuting drugged driving cases. As amateur chemists escalate their efforts to poison our community, we in law enforcement must also escalate our efforts to stop them, which requires leaders to provide us with the laws and tools to do our jobs,” Soares said.

Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley noted that “Illegal drugs and narcotics are always evolving, and this legislation ensures that law enforcement and the courts can stay on top of all impairing substances without awaiting time-consuming updates to the New York Public Health Law. Those who drive impaired choose to consume mind-altering substances before driving their vehicle, putting countless lives at risk. We must be able to hold these deadly drivers accountable, and when appropriate, help connect them with services if they are struggling with substance abuse disorder of any kind.”

Also speaking at the rally was Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, who stated, “Drunk, drugged, and distracted

driving are at epidemic levels today.

As cops and prosecutors, we need all the tools we can get to make successful prosecutions against dangerous drivers.”

“New York’s outdated approach to impaired driving handcuffs law enforcement, puts innocent people at risk, and leaves those who might be struggling with a drug problem unchecked and untreated,” said Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, the president and chief executive officer of the Family and Children’s Association. “If we've learned anything during the current opioid crisis, it's that public safety is enhanced when law enforcement and addiction treatment providers work together.”

According to data from 2022, 37% of fatal crashes in New York State are drug-related. The rate of increase in drug-involved fatalities has outpaced drinking driver fatalities in the last five years. Druginvolved fatalities have increased 33% from 200 in 2018 to 266 in 2022. The raw number is also higher than alcohol and represents 23% of the total number of roadway fatalities in the state.

The National Transportation Safety Board reports that New York was one of only five states that use a list for drugged driving.

Last year, the board sent a letter to Gov Kathy Hochul with Safety Recommendation H-22-044 supporting impaired driving charges for all drugs that impair driving without reference to a list.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 7

Green Energy Providers Face Fierce Fiscal Headwinds

LOCAL

By Robert Chartuk

A company behind Sunrise Wind and other green energy projects off Long Island has posted substantial losses and is bailing out of the wind energy sector. Under increasing pressure from inflation, supply chain issues, and the inability to convince regulators to increase ratepayer costs for the energy it produces, New England-based Eversource reported a $1.6 billion loss for its offshore wind operations for the fourth quarter of 2023.

Eversource’s partner in Sunrise Wind, the Denmarkbased Ørsted, previously announced more than $4 billion in impairment charges in its wind assets and has already discontinued two projects, Ocean Wind 1 and 2, planned off New Jersey. “A further adverse development of the Sunrise Wind project may potentially lead to us ceasing the project and incurring cancellation fees, thereby negatively impacting earnings,” Ørsted stated in its quarterly report to shareholders.

Sunrise Wind was announced with great fanfare, with Brookhaven Town expected to receive $130 million in impact

fees for hosting an underground cable coming in at Smith Point from the turbine location 124 miles away off Montauk. Suffolk County is expected to take in $40 million over the 25-year lifetime of the 90-unit generating system. Ørsted was also in partnership with Eversource on Southfork Wind, which has six of its dozen planned turbines operating and sending power to Eastern Long Island. Their other East Coast effort, Revolution Wind, is currently proceeding as planned. Ørsted’s stock price has cratered in the past year, dropping from $34.06 to $19.19 per share. Also a publicly traded company, Eversource saw its stock price tank in the last year from $83.73 per share to $56.88.

“Wind investment dropped 35% over the past year as projects bore the brunt of headwinds from higher costs and permitting challenges,” according to an analysis from the professional services company Deloitte.

“Offshore wind faces high capital requirements, long project development and permitting timelines, and locked-in power sales contracts. Developers executing agreements signed during low inflation now face

Photo Credit: Timon Schneider | Dreamstime.com

higher financing costs and a 40% jump in equipment and construction costs over the past year, while state policymakers may not be willing to provide additional support that could increase consumer costs.”

The Sunrise Wind companies are not alone in struggling to make wind work in the U.S. The principals of Empire Wind,

Equinor and BP, announced they are getting out of their deal to build turbines 14 miles off Jones Beach. According to Deloitte, “Federal and state action to expedite permitting, ease financing, and adjust incentives may be needed to keep projects in the pipeline and on track for meeting targets.”

Rather than approve an

increase in the cost for the wind power, the New York Public Service Commission said it would rebid the offshore projects.

The companies involved all reported that they are weighing their options to rebid. Eversource said it has found a buyer for its wind assets, and decisions on continuing with its projects would be left up to them.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

LOCAL

Group Effort to Highlight Local Historical Treasures

By Robert Chartuk With the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence coming up in 2026, a group of community activists is looking to get an early start on enhancing and supporting the area’s rich historical heritage and connection to the founding of the nation.

Under the leadership of the William Floyd Community Summit, a working group will meet on January 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mastic Ambulance

building on Montauk Highway to start gathering community input and go over preliminary ideas. Anyone interested in local history is welcome to attend.

“We’re going to discuss reestablishing the Annual Tri-Hamlet Community Day Celebration and establishing a community effort to enhance and support our local historical heritage treasures,” said Bill Doyle, who is helping organize the effort. Tri-Hamlet Day was a popular event that highlighted the area’s most important features. Bus loops would take

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk

War of 1812 cannons at the Manor of St. George

participants to the William Floyd Estate, Manor of St. George, Woodhull Cemetery, Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, and Smith Point Park.

“It was a great opportunity for people to enjoy and learn about our area’s place in history,” said Ray Keenan, a director of the Mastic Park Civic Association, who participated in the last TriHamlet Day in 2012. “There would be narrators on the buses from the Mastic Peninsula Historical Society talking about the sites, and when they arrived, they would see military reenactments and people dressed in period clothing. It was a wonderful way to highlight our area’s importance in the founding of our nation and show off what we have to offer.”

The Tri-Hamlet is proud to have been the home of William Floyd, one of only 56 patriots who signed the Declaration of Independence. The Manor of St. George was the site of a key battle in the Revolutionary War and Nathaniel Woodhull was a hero who gave his life fighting for the birth of a nation. Also on the highlight list is the Wertheim Preserve, one of only a few federal parks on Long Island. At Smith Point, visitors can enjoy

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk

William Floyd Estate

the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness and the Flight 800 Memorial.

“We would be happy to host tours on Tri-Hamlet Day,” offered John Scott Prudenti, on behalf of the Manor of St. George. “We have so much to show off, including the manor house, outbuildings, the old cemetery, and our War of 1812 cannons,” he said, noting that the Shirley Manor is at the end of the Tallmadge Trail, named for Col. Benjamin Tallmadge, who took back the strategic property from the British in 1780. The trail traces his path through Coram where he lit fire to tons of hay the enemy had stored for their

horses.

“Many important people and events are associated with our area, and it’s great that this group will be calling attention to them,” said Shirley resident Ken Olivo, a sponsor of the first TriHamlet Day. “There are so many people interested in keeping our heritage alive and I hope many more join them.” The last time the community hosted the event, a self-guided tour booklet was produced, which featured sponsors and other notable stops, including the Little Red School House, South Haven Church, and the Old Mastic Train Station, according to Olivo.

Nathaniel Woodhull, Long Island Patriot

By Robert Chartuk Retiring to farming and community affairs in Mastic after fighting in the French and Indian War, Nathaniel Woodhull answered the call for liberty becoming a leader of the New York Provincial Congress and a brigadier general of the New York Militia during the American Revolution. His injuries during the battle of Long Island in 1776 resulted in his death at the age of 53,

and his legacy carries on as a hero in America’s struggle for independence.

On the eve of the Long Island battle, Woodhull’s Suffolk and Queen's County Militia was driving about 1,400 cattle onto the Hempstead Plains to prevent them from falling into British hands. A thunderstorm drove the general to take refuge in a tavern in what is now Hollis, where he was captured by the British. Captain James Baird of

Photo Credit: HMdb.org, the Historical Marker Database

Alexander Erwin

Fraser's Highlanders struck him several times with his sword, provoking him to say, “God save the king.” Woodhull refused, instead uttering, “God save us all.”

Woodhull married Ruth Floyd, the sister of William Floyd, a New York signer of the Declaration of Independence, in 1761. As sentiment against King George’s taxation and poor treatment of the colonies festered, he was elected to represent Suffolk in the New York General Assembly. He rose to serve as president of the New York Provincial Congress and helped select William Floyd as a delegate to the First Continental Congress, which drafted a resolution to boycott English goods after the imposition of the “Intolerable Acts.”

Woodhull’s family had been prominent in New York affairs since the mid-seventeenth century, and in 1758, the thirtysix-year-old joined the New York provincial forces, where he held the rank of major. He fought in a number of battles during the French and Indian War, having served at the Battle of Carillon (Ticonderoga) under British General James Abercromby and the Battle of Fort Frontenac under

Photo Credit: www.SpoonerCentral

The Nathaniel Woodhull home in Mastic

General John Bradstreet. In 1760, as colonel of the 3rd Regiment of New York Provincials, he took part in the invasion of Canada under General Jeffery Amherst.

After his capture by the Red Coats, Woodhull was taken to the Old Stone Church in Jamaica, which the British had converted into a prison. He was then moved to a prison ship in Wallabout Bay, where his wounds became infected, and his health rapidly deteriorated.

A sympathetic British officer had him transferred to the centuryold house built by Nicasius di Sille, a Dutch official, in New

Utrecht, where his arm was amputated in a bid to save his life. Woodhull was able to call for his wife, Ruth, who was at his side when he succumbed to his injuries. His grave is marked by a historical sign at the family cemetery on Neighborhood Road in Mastic Beach. The early American Patriot is remembered by children attending schools named for him, including the Nathaniel Woodhull Elementary School in Shirley, PS 35 Nathaniel Woodhull School in Hollis, and the Nathaniel Woodhull Intermediate School in Huntington.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 9

Fight is on to Bring Ballot Drop Boxes to New York

STATE

By Stefan Mychajliw

Lawmakers in New Hampshire and Texas saw them as such a dangerous threat to democracy they banned them outright.

A Wisconsin court ruled them to be illegal.

Now New York lawmakers want to make them an integral part of voting in Suffolk County and across the Empire State.

They are ballot drop boxes.

Democratic lawmakers in the New York State Senate passed a bill that would place ballot boxes across the state.

Predictably, reaction to the proposed law split straight across party lines.

“It’s these types of extreme policies pushed by the left that continue to destroy our state. They create more problems than solutions,” posted Senate Republicans on their Twitter page @NYSenateGOP. "The Senate majority has taken great steps to fix our antiquated electoral system, and this package of bills continues at work to make our

system fairer and more accessible," said Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins following the passage of the ballot box bill, which is now in the hands of the New York State Assembly.

Last year, the Democratic let majority refused to pass similar legislation in the 2023 session. Ballot boxes are deemed to be controversial by some and potentially ripe for fraud. Critics contend ballot boxes allow unscrupulous individuals to stuff ballot boxes with multiple votes.

“Even among some democrats, they have some concerns about this as well. Do you really need unsecured ballot boxes sitting all over God's green earth? Even if you think it is a good idea, do you want to rush into it without studying the issue?” asked election law expert and attorney Joseph T. Burns, who previously served as Deputy Director of Election Operations at the New York State Board of Elections.

There appears to be less controversial provisions of the proposed elections bill that passed

the New York State Senate, like offering voters non-alcoholic drinks and snacks while waiting in line to vote, creating a centralized registration database for all of New York, strengthening criminal penalties for those engaging in voter suppression, and establishing portable polling places.

The one sticking point for lawmakers in the Assembly: making ballot drop boxes legal here.

“A lot of these ideas, people dream up without studying whether it is needed or feasible. Shouldn't you get some buy-in from people who run elections?” questioned Burns.

Right now “ballot drop boxes” technically exist in New York State.

Voters can return their ballots to an early voting site, or bring them to a secure voting machine on Election Day. The difference at those locations is that both Republican and Democratic elections inspectors are present, which could cut down on fraud.

Random ballot drop boxes offer no such election integrity protection.

Photo Credit: David Edelman | Dreamstime.com

The ballot box made widespread news, and history, when candidate Donald Trump claimed widespread voter fraud because of these boxes. As seen outside of the San Francisco City Hall 27 July 2022.

“We already have a process in place similar to having a drop box.

I don’t know of any Republican and Democrat Elections Commissioners that have been consulted. These lawmakers appear to fly by the seat of their pants. There’s no study of the issue or buy in from anyone,”

concluded Burns.

For ballot drop boxes and other election proposals to become the law of the land, it would need to pass the New York State Assembly and be signed by Governor Kathy Hochul.

Tierney Travels to Albany to Tackle Killer Chemicals in Drugs

By Stefan Mychajliw District Attorney Raymond Tierney did not believe lawmakers would hear his message loud and clear on changing laws to fight the fentanyl crisis in Suffolk County.

A phone call would not suffice.

Zoom meetings would not get the job done, nor sending letters to lawmakers about the critical importance of saving lives.

So Tierney personally traveled to Albany for the State of the State address, where he passionately promoted a bipartisan bill that criminalizes the use of chemicals like Xylazine that kills users in Suffolk County and across New York.

Tierney wants drug dealers to be charged with manslaughter who knowingly mix deadly chemicals into illegal drugs.

Most recent data shows 400 people in Suffolk County died in 2022 due to drug overdoses. Linda Ventura, whose son died of a drug overdose a decade ago, joined Tierney in his trek to Albany.

“It is time that New York State appropriately penalizes the people that are distributing this deadly poison, knowing it is lethal and is killing our loved ones, particularly our young adults,” said Ventura.

Also joining the Suffolk County District Attorney were Gene and Sue Murray, who lost not one but

two children to fatal overdoses.

“We were shocked to learn that in New York State, our daughter’s fentanyl dealer who caused her death could not be charged with anything beyond the sale of the drugs that killed her. We need a stronger law to hold those who sell the poison that kills so many like our daughter Chelsey, accountable,” said the Murrays.

Following his effort in Albany, Tierney spoke to the South Shore Press about lobbying lawmakers: South Shore Press: “Why was it important for you to attend the State of the State and speak directly to lawmakers about this crisis?”

Suffolk County District Attorney Hon. Raymond A. Tierney: “It is a profound crisis, the biggest District Attorney’s face. We have to drop everything to solve this now. It is incumbent on us to raise awareness and provide positive feedback on how we can change legislation.”

SSP: “You most definitely cannot accomplish that by a phone call or a media release. What was the biggest message to send state lawmakers?”

Tierney: “We are on the front lines with police and law enforcement in protecting families and dealing with the terrible aftermath of overdoses.

The devastation is unbearable.

It is heartbreaking. We wanted Legislators to see what we see.”

SSP: “What specific changes do you want lawmakers to make concerning dangerous and deadly drugs?”

Photo credit: Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney | Facebook

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney continued his two-day rally in Albany calling on lawmakers, with the District Attorneys Association of the State of NY, to pass a bill that would close the loopholes in the drugged driving law that make it unworkable.

Tierney: “The laws are archaic.

They must change to save lives.

When laws were drawn up, readily available drugs were grown out of the ground. Now there’s a chemical composition to these killers.

Photo credit: Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney | Facebook

District Attorney Tierney was joined by impaired driving victims’ families, community members, district attorneys, lawmakers, traffic safety advocates, criminal justice professionals, and members of the Coalition to Protect New Yorkers from Drugged Driving to promote the passage of the bill.

Thousands of artificially created synthetic drugs are being created.

Laws must be passed to address the changing ways drugs are created.

We cannot be bound to the old ways of legislating, we have to be quicker.”

SSP: “Can emergency responders save people who overdose on drugs cooked up with certain chemicals?”

Tierney: “Xylazine should be illegal, that is what we are asking for.

New laws should be agile so we can react immediately to this substance and others that are killing our kids and adding quickly to new drugs.

More people will die if lawmakers wait. Seven out of ten drugs are laced with deadly fentanyl. Dealers cut it with Xylazine. Narcan does nothing for it. We are trying to save lives, but now we just can’t.”

SSP: “How do you even know synthetic chemicals are infused in drugs?”

Tierney: “Screening tests by police won’t even detect it. Sadly, the only way we detect these new chemically laced drugs is on an autopsy. That’s how we found out about this. In 15% of our autopsies, the chemically laced drug was identified by toxicology testing.”

SSP: “What was your parting message for state lawmakers?”

Tierney: “I really wanted elected officials to see families, to see firsthand the devastation these drugs have on surviving mothers and fathers. No family should ever go through what they have, the loss of a child. Their stories need to be told.”

Page 10

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

State Lawmakers Gavel in 2024 Session

STATE

no time to read them, and key legislation sometimes doesn’t hit the floor until the wee hours, as was done with the state’s cashless bail law, which was signed by then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo when it reached his desk at three o’clock in the morning.

By Robert Chartuk Albany–State lawmakers gaveled in the 2024 legislative session with major issues on their minds, albeit with different priorities depending on what part of New York they’re from.

For Long Island’s reps, taxes and affordability are at the top of the agenda, along with illegal immigration and fighting the illicit drug scourge and crime wave the policies of their urban colleagues have wrought. There will be the age-old battle of the budget and the allocation of resources, particularly school funding and monies from the state’s $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, which was overwhelmingly approved

by Nassau and Suffolk voters in a 2022 referendum.

“The battle, of course, will be over money,” said Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue) who was in the chamber for Gov. Kathy Hochul’s State of the State Address.

“Long Island needs to get its fair share from a government that’s dominated by Democrats from other parts of the state,” Murray said, noting that the region only gets back about 60 cents for every dollar it sends to Albany. “They look at us like a cash cow and think we can afford it, but guess what, we can’t.”

The New Year got off to a rough start for the downstate when Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman criticized Hochul for shortchanging Long Island and pushing state-controlled multifamily housing on the suburbs.

Hearing his comments at a meeting of the region’s top business and governmental leaders, Hochul

Photo Credit: Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio | Facebook

Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio during the State of the State with Senator Patricia CanzoneriFitzpatrick where they listened to Governor Hochul lay out her plan for this upcoming year.

asked the crowd if she should leave and take the state dollars with her.

“We’re all for affordable housing, and the local municipalities have been addressing the issue, but they need more resources from Albany, not a top-down approach where the state takes over local zoning,” Murray said.

“Long Islanders are very concerned over the impact the migrants will have on their communities,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano (R-Medford), who noted that Gov. Hochul’s “Sanctuary State” policy has brought more than 130,000 aliens to New York. “There was more than a billion dollars in the budget last year for illegal immigrants, and I’m sure the governor will want more than that this year. These are direct taxpayer allocations for the migrants and do not include the huge expenditures forced on

local communities for education, EMS, and other social services.”

The legislators were quick to point out that Hochul did not reference the migrant crisis a single time in her State of the State remarks (see related story in this week’s South Shore Press).

Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine highlighted the need for Long Island’s share of state funds for environmental preservation and clean water initiatives, particularly for sewer expansion.

“For protecting our water resources, spurring economic development, and permitting the construction of much-needed housing, nothing gives you a greater return on a taxpayer dollar than sewers,” Romaine noted.

Hochul’s speech was also devoid of concrete plans to tackle the crime wave sweeping across New

York. Progressive Democrats from the state’s urban areas are in direct conflict with the suburban Republicans on the issue of crime, with Gov. Hochul siding with the Left Wing of her party when it comes to maintaining cashless bail and decreasing the power of the police.

Hochul has appealed to her colleagues, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D-Yonkers) and Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie (D-Bronx), to start negotiations on the budget early in the legislative session instead of waiting until the last minute, as been the practice for years under past administrations.

The process of “Three People in a Room” making all of the state’s major decisions has been a constant bane of taxpayers and government watchdog groups. Their spending packages are usually dumped on legislators at the 11th hour with

In his remarks on the session’s opening day, Heastie expressed confidence in “lowering New York’s unemployment to three percent, raising wages up by four percent, and building our economic future with a focus on putting families first.” He named affordable housing as a top priority stating, “It is not an understatement to say that housing – or more pointedly the lack of affordable housing – is one the biggest issues facing this state.

Every community is feeling the effects of our housing crisis and it is up to us to enact solutions." The assembly speaker also committed to raising the minimum wage each year until 2027 and stressed, “Health care decisions should be between a woman and her doctor.”

With its one-party rule and secretive legislative process, New York has become the most expensive place to live in the nation, with the highest taxes and fees and the worst business climate. The state leads the U.S. in people bailing out, having said goodbye to more than 200,000 residents last year, according to the Census Bureau. Unfortunately, local officials point out, they’re being replaced by economic refugees who don’t have the skills and educational background of those who are leaving, a recipe, they say, for economic disaster.

Migrant Advice for Suffolk County Politicians: "Build A Wall!"

Op-ed by Stefan Mychajliw One migrant was arrested and charged with multiple felonies, accused of brutally raping a woman in front of her three-year-old chid.

Another migrant was accused of sexually assaulting a hotel worker that housed migrants bused in from New York City.

School districts were swamped with so many migrants their respective budgets increased by hundreds of thousands of dollars.

These are just some of the serious issues facing the Town of Cheektowaga, New York, population 86,181, smaller than Smithtown but bigger than Southampton.

“It was barbaric. This is what happens in third world countries,” said Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro, whose district represents Cheektowaga where migrants were bused.

This mostly blue collar suburb directly east of Buffalo, politically speaking, is a bellwether town, with former Governor George Pataki famously saying “As Cheektowaga goes, so does the rest of New York.”

Erie County Health Department notified Cheektowaga residents of a tuberculosis outbreak amongst migrants who were brought there.

On May 20th, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz called critics of his municipality being a sanctuary county and welcoming migrants with open arms “morally repugnant.”

Eighty migrant children were enrolled in Maryvale Schools in the Town of Cheektowaga.

Wally Carriero was one of those Cheektowaga residents who simply had questions about these new migrants who showed up in his neighborhood.

“I was grilling in my backyard when five migrants in winter coats, in the summer, asked us for a pharmacy. We were called racists and not being inclusive. We just wanted questions answered.

Who is paying for them and most important, who is vetting them?” asked Carriero, who also leads the Dick Urban Community Association (DUCA) that promotes neighborhoods in Cheektowaga.

Shortly after this encounter, the

Crime and health issues weren’t the only concerns.

New York State is now promising to pick up 50% of the new cost of educating those kids. With the total additional cost pegged at $415,000, that still leaves Maryvale Schools searching for ways to find $207,500.

Additional costs are related to hiring more bilingual and specialized teachers.

“School Superintendents were duped. They were told Albany would offer a 100% reimbursement.

Now it’s only 50%. We can’t afford it,” added Todaro.

At the time Suffolk County leaders took the opposite approach, passing an emergency order in May of 2022, formally objecting to New York City’s busing of migrants to municipalities outside of the Big Apple. Suffolk County also

Migrants are being sent to cities across the United States of America.

promised to pursue legal action to stop New York City from shipping migrants to Suffolk County.

Similar measures in Erie County were put in place but long after migrants were accused of committing serious crimes and children were already enrolled in schools. The National Guard was called in to protect Cheektowaga taxpayers, and New York Mayor Eric Adams agreed to stop sending migrants to this Buffalo suburb.

As for Suffolk County elected officials, those on the other side of the state have words of advice when it comes to a migrant policy here on Long Island: “Be sure there’s transparency from those shipping migrants there, if they choose to do so,” added Carrierio.

“Don’t do it. Put up a wall. It would be cheaper,” concluded Legislator Todaro.

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STATE

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 11

Gov. Hochul’s “Blue Buffer” Plan to Buy Out Waterfront Homeowners

By Robert Chartuk Up to $250 million from the state’s Environmental Bond fund will be used to buy out homeowners whose property gets flooded during storms under a plan announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul. Other initiatives laid out in her annual State of the State Address include a “Resilient & Ready” program to fund flood damage repairs and mitigation efforts, as well as investments in statewide emergency services.

“Following an onslaught of drenching rain, furious storms, sweltering heat, and bitter cold, the plan outlines multiple actions for New York to continue building more resilient communities and adapt to the impacts of climate change,” Hochul said, tying the severe weather to the need to reduce climate-changing emissions. “As we continue to aggressively reduce greenhouse gas emissions across New York, we simultaneously need to make sure our communities, homes, and infrastructure are resilient and can withstand these coming storms.”

Included in her strategy is a “Blue Buffers Voluntary Buyout Program” to encourage buyouts in communities most vulnerable to flooding. “The program will prioritize outreach and education first and then begin identifying voluntary projects based on the

level of flood risk, ensuring we protect our communities that are most vulnerable to high water and storm surges,” the governor explained. Buyout funds would be available from the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act approved by voters in 2022.

monies and update the regulatory scoring method to prioritize asset management and resilience to climate change.

Her comprehensive Adaptation and Resiliency strategy is designed to ensure that localities can equitably adapt to climate change by assessing impacts on disadvantaged communities, ecosystems, infrastructure, and vulnerable economic sectors.

Other actions announced by the governor include: A “Resilient & Ready Program” to provide monies to low-andmoderate income homeowners to repair flood damage and pay for flood mitigation improvements.

Directing the Codes Counsel to overhaul the building codes with higher standards for resistance to floods, wind, snow, and temperature extremes.

Increasing statewide disaster response capabilities through training and preparedness, as well as equipping localities with generators, high-flow pumps, and flood barrier technology.

Update Coastal Erosion Hazard Area maps to enable people to quickly determine if a property is within a hazard area, as well as provide web-based drought prediction and urban heat island mapping tools and an updated stormwater design manual.

The governor is also looking to expand funding for cooling capacity at schools through the

Photo Credit: Mike Groll | Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Governor Kathy Hochul presents the Fiscal Year 2025 Executive Budget in the Red Room at the State Capitol

Clean Green Schools program and encourage communities to open schools to the public during extreme heat events. She also wants to allocate money for air conditioners for the medically vulnerable and have the Department of Health work within the Essential Health Plan to supply air conditioners to protect participants.

Hochul also proposes the repair of aging flood control projects and the removal of dams to keep water out of communities. The infrastructure, including 95 miles of walls and levees, will undergo rehabilitation, removal, or

repairs. A “Resilient Watersheds Implementation Grant Program” will fund flood mitigation projects in Westchester County and advance resilience studies in 40 other flood-prone watersheds.

The governor also wants to launch a “supercharged” Green Resiliency Grant Program to build green infrastructure, including green roofs and permeable pavement.

State agencies will be directed to invest funds to prioritize sustainable and climate-resilient design practices.

Hochul also wants to target struggling areas for Climate Smart Communities Program

The Nature Conservancy applauded Hochul’s proposals, saying in a statement: “Voluntary buyouts are essential for the health, safety and well-being of people who live in areas that flood. Across New York, people are living in homes that flood again and again; many need and want help to move to safe, dry ground. Buyout programs are critically important, not just to the families they help, but to entire communities when we can return flood-damaged properties back into native wildlife habitats that reduce the impacts of flooding.”

On the Mastic Peninsula, recently inundated with flood water from back-to-back coastal storms, the Town of Brookhaven, along with Suffolk County, New York State, and the federal government, is piecing together hundreds of acres of vulnerable properties to create a natural buffer zone free from residential construction.

Mobile Sports Wagering Nets $862 Million in Revenue for New York as Legislators Push for Betting Expansion

By Raheem Soto Celebrating the two-year milestone of mobile sports wagering in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul declared that the state has amassed over $862 million in tax revenue from sports bets. The cumulative revenue over the two years exceeds $1.55 billion, with the funds earmarked for education, youth sports programs, and efforts to prevent and treat problem gambling.

Despite New York securing the third position in overall handle among states in just two years, Assemblymember Gary Pretlow and Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. are pushing for additional betting options. They are championing the cause of fixed-odds horse betting and self-service sports betting kiosks, particularly at professional stadiums, arenas, and off-track betting sites.

Pretlow and Addabbo, instrumental in legalizing online sports betting in New York, are making their third attempt to pass legislation (bills S2343 and A3562) to expand betting offerings. The

proposed bills aim to integrate fixed-odds horse betting seamlessly into the existing sports betting framework, allowing New York's nine sportsbooks to offer fixed-odds NY horse betting wagers after partnering with the horse racing content provider, a move supported by the New York Racing Association.

The current pari-mutuel wagering system allows pre-race odds to fluctuate until the race begins, potentially altering the odds bettors initially placed their wagers on. Moreover, horse bets are currently confined to licensed tracks or specific online horse betting apps like FanDuel Racing NY. The proposed legislation seeks to transform this landscape by authorizing fixed-odds betting via online sportsbooks, ensuring the stability of odds once a bet is placed. This expansion could enrich the diversity of betting options available to New Yorkers, promising a more predictable and reliable betting experience.

While the success of mobile

sports wagering in New York is undeniable, the call for expanded betting options reflects an ongoing effort to refine and

diversify the state's gambling landscape. As discussions unfold around these legislative proposals, the focus remains on balancing

entertainment options and responsible gambling practices to ensure a positive and secure environment for the state's bettors.

Page 12

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

STATE

Bipartisan Effort To Stop Congestion Pricing In Its Tracks

By Stefan Mychajliw Ideologically speaking, it is rare for usually left leaning teacher’s unions and Republican politicians to be on the same page of an issue.

According to Open Secrets, teacher’s unions donate 94% of political contributions to Democrats.

Because of this, many heads were turned when Republican Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella and the United Federation of Teachers joined forces to file a federal lawsuit to block congestion pricing from being implemented in New York City.

Fossella kicked off his press conference praising UFT President Michael Mulgrew for joining in the effort to block the start of congestion pricing this spring.

“They (the UFT) have the guts and common sense to lead the effort on behalf of his teachers and others to

ANALYSIS

stop the money grab nicely referred to as congestion pricing,” said Fossella, who estimated it would cost drivers an extra $4,000 per year in tolls.

“Workers will be punished by this scheme. Why would we give people another reason to leave?” asked Borough President Fossella.

Under the MTA’s congestion plan it will cost you $15 to drive your car into Manhattan, below 60th Street.

Under provisions of the congestion pricing plan, the MTA can increase that by 10% following the first year.

Trucks will be charged $24 to $36, depending on the size of your vehicle.

“We are now telling federal, state, and city agencies that we are suing you and asking the courts to intervene.

Moving pollution is not the right way to treat this city. All this does is move pollution from Midtown to some of our most challenged areas,” said UFT President Mulgrew, who asked the EPA to conduct another environmental impact statement

on the potential health risks of congestion pricing.

The federal lawsuit was filed in the United States Court for the Eastern District in Brooklyn. The following are named as defendants: The U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, state Department of Transportation, and the city Department of Transportation.

The crux of the legal argument against congestion pricing in the newly filed federal lawsuit: air and noise pollution would simply shift from Manhattan to surrounding communities, not eliminate it.

Also joining the bipartisan effort to repeal congestion pricing was Democratic NYS Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton.

“I stand in support of this lawsuit to stop congestion pricing in its tracks,”

Photo Credit: Malo299 | Dreamstime.com

New York City traffic heading uptown.

Scarcella-Spanton stated.

March 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM

The MTA announced it will hold four public hearings on the congestion pricing plan. The four public hearings will take place at MTA Headquarters, 2 Broadway, 20th Floor – William J. Ronan Board Room, on the following dates and times:

March 4, 2024, at 10:00 AM

February 29, 2024, at 6:00 PM

March 4, 2024 at 6:00 PM To learn more on how to speak at any of these public hearings, you can send the MTA an email: cbdtp. feedback@mtabt.org. They can also be reached at 646-252-6777.

Saying A Lot Without Saying a Word: The Migrant Crisis in New York

By Stefan Mychajliw New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2024 State of the State address contained exactly 7,011 words, from beginning to end.

The speech was approximately one hour, one minute long.

One is also the amount of time Hochul mentioned the word “migrant” in her speech.

“There was no mention of the migrant crisis, not even once. And where was any mention of Fentanyl or the opioid crisis? We lost 400 people last year to Fentanyl in Suffolk County alone. That's more than one person a day, and it's only getting worse, and she never mentioned it; not a word. No, she talked about planting trees and swimming pools, but where was anything about the real issues?,” asked NYS Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue).

The New York Immigration Coalition and many others across the Empire State took notice not of what was said about Hochul’s lack of attention to the migrant crisis in New York, but clearly what was not.

“New York has welcomed over 150,000 asylum seekers in less than two years, and is home to over 4.4 million immigrants, but we are nowhere to be found in the Governor’s State of the State address,” said New York Immigration Coalition Executive Director Murad Awawdeh.

The press release from New York Congressman Marc Molinaro was just as critical, stating “Rep. Molinaro Slams Gov. Hochul For Failing to Address Migrant Crisis In State of State Address.”

“Ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away,” said Congressman Molinaro.

It is a problem that plagues Suffolk County taxpayers and families across the state concerning exactly who is paying for the influx of immigrants to New York, especially the Big Apple.

To date all New York taxpayers

are on the hook for $2 billion spent on the migrant crisis that brought an estimated 150,000 people to New York.

NATION

Recent studies predict this cost to skyrocket to $12 billion by 2025.

An animated New York Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt was joined by fellow Senators to question why Hochul not only refused to address the migrant issue in her speech, but what was going to be done to protect and fight for taxpayers across New York.

“The people of New York City, who are American citizens, pay some of the most exorbitant taxes in the country, they should be the priority.

Our first priority exclusively has to be Americans and legal New York residents,” said Ortt.

Previously Hochul promised to ask the State Legislature to allocate $1 billion to New York City to address housing costs related to the migrant crisis. This appears to be a drop in the bucket to the estimated cost of $12 billion.

With Hochul not addressing the migrant crisis in her 2024 State of the State address, local leaders and community groups hope it will be addressed when the Governor releases her proposed Executive Budget, to literally and figuratively put her money where her mouth is concerning migrants in New York.

“We eagerly await Governor Hochul’s budget address, where we’re hoping to hear details on how New York state will offer additional financial support to its largest city and the heart of the nation’s economy as we continue to manage the asylum seeker crisis,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

“With more new arrivals coming to New York daily, lawmakers must appropriate the funds and resources needed for the Adams Administration to meet this moment and safeguard our clients’ safety and well-being,” added the Legal Aid Society in a statement.

Trump Takes Iowa Caucus, Race for the White House Officially Underway

By Robert Chartuk The 2024 race for the White House is officially underway with the Iowa Caucuses giving Donald Trump his first victory in vying for the Republican nomination over challengers who trailed significantly behind the former president. The Democrat candidate, President Joe Biden, did not have a caucus challenge.

Trump’s victory in the first-inthe-nation contest gives him a leg up as the preliminary elections head to New Hampshire. Trump friend-turned-foe Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, finished second in Iowa and former U.N. Ambassador under the Trump administration, Nikki Haley, placed third. The fourth-place contender, tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, dropped out of the contest and endorsed Trump.

Coming in a distant fifth was Texas Pastor Ryan Binkley, and at sixth was former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who also exited the race.

Turnout was lower than normal as Iowa voters braved dangerously cold and icy weather to support Trump, handing him a record 30-percentage point win exceeding that of Bob Dole’s 13-point victory in 1988.

He outperformed his second-place finish in the 2016 caucus, where he was bested by Senator Ted Cruz.

After the vote in the Granite State, the candidates are off to South Carolina, the state where Biden turned the tide on his way to the Democrat nomination the last go around. Given the president’s deteriorating mental condition and dismal poll ratings, there is

Former President Donald J. Trump wins Iowa Caucus by a landslide.

speculation that he will drop out of the race, leaving the Democrat nomination up to delegates at the party’s August convention in Chicago. Names mentioned to replace him on the Democrat ticket are California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michelle Obama, wife of the former president. Vice President Kamala Harris, also suffering from poor poll numbers, is not seen as a contender in the presidential sweepstakes.

Trump is running under the Make America Great Again platform, a governing philosophy that propelled him past Hillary Clinton in 2016.

On the campaign trail, the former chief executive excoriates Biden for the record inflation suffocating the nation, his premature withdrawal from Afghanistan leaving behind a massive airbase and billions in armaments, an open border that has seen millions of illegal aliens flood into the country, and his son, Hunter, receiving millions in payments from China, Russia, and other countries seen as threats to America. Biden faces reelection with the Ukraine

war breaking out under his watch, a full-scale military assault on Gaza after Hamas terrorists invaded Israel, Houthi rebels firing missiles at U.S. warships and other vessels in the Red Sea, and Iran-backed militants bombing troops in Iraq and Syria.

The incumbent president is running for another term on the strength of “Bidenomics” and charges that Trump would be a “dictator” and a “threat to Democracy” if he were returned to the Oval.

Meanwhile, the Democrats have pulled out all stops in unprecedented legal maneuvers to stifle Trump’s 2024 bid. Prosecutors in four jurisdictions have leveled a laundry list of charges against him that could lead to 700 years in prison. Judges in Colorado and Maine have thrown him off the primary ballot and news comes out practically every day that the election interference has been coordinated with the White House.

Many of the court actions, including the primary decisions, are expected to be settled in the U.S. Supreme Court.

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

NATION

Political Bias in the Spotlight: Unrest at the White House Raises Questions of a Two-Tiered Justice System

By Raheem Soto Recent events surrounding the handling of protests in the nation's capital have sparked discussions about potential disparities in the justice system's response to demonstrations, subtly hinting at a two-tiered approach based on political alignment.

On January 13, a group of proPalestinian protesters gathered outside the White House, where they engaged in antigovernment chants, damaged a fence, and breached a reinforced gate. Despite the evident disruption, no arrests were made at the scene. This response, or lack thereof, contrasts with the treatment of similar protests in recent history.

In November 2023, thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators clashed with police outside the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, D.C., resulting in injuries to officers and a single arrest. This incident, coupled with the latest non-arrests at the White House protest, has led some observers to question the consistency in

law enforcement's approach to handling demonstrations.

Adding to the debate, the recent sentencing of Proud Boys leader Joe Biggs for his role in the January 6 Capitol riot has brought the issue into sharper focus. Biggs, convicted of seditious conspiracy, received a 17-year federal prison sentence.

The severity of this sentence, especially when compared to the non-arrests at the White House, is seen by some as indicative of a differing approach based on the political nature of the protest.

The judge in Biggs' case, Tim Kelly, described his actions as terrorism-related.

This characterization contributed to the length of the sentence.

Biggs was identified as an "instigator and leader" in the Capitol attack. The government had initially sought a 33-year sentence, highlighting his role in promoting "political violence."

In response to the January 13th protest, the Secret Service issued a statement acknowledging the damage to the anti-scale fencing and stating that the issues were promptly repaired. Observers

Scene from Pro-Palestine Rally In Washington DC

have noted this response as part of the broader narrative on how protests are managed and what are apparent disparities in legal responses.

The recent events have led to

a growing conversation about the fairness and impartiality of law enforcement and judicial processes, especially when dealing with protests of differing political ideologies. While no explicit accusations have

been made, the juxtaposition of these events suggests to some a nuanced, possibly unequal, approach to handling demonstrations, raising essential questions about the consistency of justice under the law.

FAIR Uncovers Troubling Realities in U.S. Immigration Enforcement: A Closer Look at the Comprehensive Impact

By Raheem Soto Amidst a surge in illegal border crossings in 2023, the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) conducted a thorough examination, shedding light on critical trends and challenges within U.S. immigration enforcement. The Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 ICE annual report analysis conducted by FAIR revealed alarming increases in the non-detained docket, deficiencies in removals, and a notable shift towards prioritizing social services over law enforcement.

Established in 1979, FAIR, as a non-partisan organization dedicated to immigration-related research and advocacy, aims to promote legal immigration and advocate for effective policies that benefit both Americans and immigrants. Through meticulous research, education, and advocacy, FAIR provides comprehensive analysis and solutions to address the multifaceted challenges posed by immigration.

FAIR's investigations delve into the staggering surge in the non-detained docket, revealing a substantial 6.2 million individuals by the end of FY 2023. This

Non-citizen households, compared to native households, exhibit significantly higher use of food programs (45 percent vs. 21 percent for natives) and Medicaid (50 percent vs.

23 percent for natives). The estimated 4.8 million Americanborn children of illegal aliens, due to an erroneous interpretation of the Fourteenth Amendment, all received automatic birthright U.S. citizenship.

figure, including those in removal proceedings or with final orders of removal, represents a dramatic increase from 3.26 million in FY 2020, with a startling 1.44 million rise in the past year alone.

While confronting over 3.2 million illegal aliens at the border in 2023, FAIR's analysis of the ICE report underscores a concerning record of dismal amounts of removals. Despite a 97.5% increase compared to FY 2022, the absolute number, 142,580, raises questions about the efficacy of existing policies. FAIR emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between removals and expulsions under Title 42 authority, expressing concerns about the administration's approach to detention.

FAIR's investigation exposes the Biden Administration's inclination to eliminate detention, resulting in a decline in the number of aliens detained – reaching 36,845 by the end of FY 2023. Additionally, the issuance of detainers by ICE has seen a drop from over 177,000 in FY 2018 to 165,000 in FY 2023.

FAIR emphasizes the critical role of detainers for public safety and questions the underutilization of this tool.

Analyzing the ICE report, FAIR highlighted a redirection of ICE personnel to support border management efforts, with over 1,300 employees contributing 17% of the workforce in 2023.

This shift has implications for the effectiveness of arrests, prosecutions, and removals in the interior, prompting concerns about the overall strategy for immigration enforcement.

However, FAIR's investigation does not stop at enforcement

challenges. It explores the comprehensive impact of illegal immigration on essential services and taxpayers. Limited English Proficiency (LEP) students alone cost taxpayers approximately $60 billion annually. According to a 2018 Center for Immigration Studies analysis, 63 percent of households headed by a noncitizen reported using at least one welfare program in 2014, compared to 35 percent of nativeheaded households.

Mass immigration, coupled with "chain migration," poses challenges for Social Security. The ability of immigrants to sponsor numerous relatives, including elderly family members, raises concerns about overburdening the system rather than rejuvenating the workforce.

The impact on essential services is substantial. Mass immigration places strain on schools, hospitals, and highways.

The education of children of illegal immigrants alone costs taxpayers millions annually, while emergency medical expenditures and incarceration costs for illegal aliens add to the financial burden.

For more on FAIR visit the website at https://www.fairus.org/

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NATION

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 15

Trump Prosecutor Fani Willis in Hot Water Over Alleged Relationship

By Raheem Soto Fani Willis, the self-proclaimed anti-Trump District Attorney, is facing scrutiny over an alleged improper relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade, jeopardizing the ongoing prosecution of former Trump campaign official Michael Roman.

A recent court motion filed on behalf of Roman seeks the dismissal of charges against him and the disqualification of Willis, Wade, and the entire District Attorney's office from further involvement in the case.

The public filing alleges that

Willis hired Wade, her alleged romantic partner, as a special prosecutor, creating a conflict of interest. The motion contends that Wade, a private attorney, funded vacations with Willis using Fulton County funds obtained through his law firm, which has received nearly $654,000 in legal fees since early 2022. While there is no concrete proof of the romantic ties between Willis and Wade in the document, it claims that "sources close to both the special prosecutor and the district attorney have confirmed they had an ongoing, personal relationship."

The motion raises concerns

Fulton County and his subsequent purchase of vacations for Willis might constitute honest services fraud—a federal crime involving kickbacks to an employer. The filing also hints at prosecuting this under the federal racketeering statute.

Fani Willis about the financial aspects of their relationship, suggesting that the checks sent to Wade from

Defendant Michael Roman, a former Trump campaign official, is at the center of the controversy, with the motion aiming to have the charges against him dismissed.

The document alleges that Willis and Wade have been engaged in a romantic relationship that began before Wade was appointed a special prosecutor. It claims they traveled together to Napa Valley and Florida

and cruised the Caribbean, although there needs to be documented proof of these purchases.

The motion underscores the potential impropriety of Willis and Wade's alleged relationship, suggesting that it has resulted in personal gains from the prosecution at taxpayers' expense. As Roman seeks to have the charges dropped, the entire case's legitimacy is questioned, with implications for the broader political narrative surrounding prosecuting individuals associated with former President Donald Trump.

Ever Increasing National Debt Drowns Suffolk County Families They are one of the largest Mat sellers in the world.

Now the father of five, grandfather of eight, and greatgrandfather of eight fights to reduce the national debt. He’s been to Capitol Hill to speak to

Congressmen. In New Hampshire he spoke to an interested crowd of politicians and college students. Joe From Texas will travel anywhere, at any time, to convince Americans that the national debt crisis is the most dangerous threat to national security.

“We need to wake up Washington. I’m not a politician.

I’m not a celebrity. I’m not asking for money. I’m asking people to pay attention. If America fails financially, the rest of the world is going to be in trouble,” concluded Penland.

Pro-Palestine Protest Disruptions in NYC 300 Arrested

By Raheem Soto Photo Credit: The South Shore Press

"Joe From Texas" speaks at the Millyard Museum in Manchester, New Hampshire

By Stefan Mychajliw The South Shore Press traveled to the Millyard Museum in Manchester, NH to hear “Joe From Texas” share a critically important message that he wants families to hear from across the country, from Long Beach to Long Island.

His mission: crisscross America to raise awareness to eliminate the national debt, which is $34 trillion and growing. Think of it this way: every single man, woman, and child in Suffolk County would have to personally pay $101,000 on the spot to erase the national debt.

His website, JoeFromTexas.com, has a running tab on how high the national debt is climbing. If every Long Island household came up with a monthly payment plan to pay off the national debt, they would have to shell out $1,000 per month for 22 years to pay it off.

This staggering number is almost as big as the combined economies of China, India, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan.

Keep in mind, two of those countries were destroyed by the United States in World War II. “We bombed Germany. Japan dug themselves out of the rubble of the atomic bomb. They built their country back. Japan is the number one lender to America today. That’s an embarrassment. How can you

go from being a superpower in 1945 to borrowing money from the country that you bombed with an atomic bomb? It’s mismanagement on a gross scale,” said Joe From Texas (whose last name is Penland) during a panel discussion that included United States Senator Joe Manchin, former Congressman Jeb Bradley, and former Comptroller of the United States General David Walker.

Twelve years after WWII, Joe From Texas’s father died. His family was in dire straits.

“My father had a massive stroke.

The day before, he was drinking. He drank every day. We had nothing in the cupboard but his whiskey.

We were poor, instantly. Couldn’t eat for two weeks. We had $200 per month in social security. If it weren’t for social security we would have starved to death,” said Penland.

To pay for his father’s funeral, Penland cut the grass at the funeral home for a few months. His mother even had to take out a $100 loan from the bank to feed the family, a debt friends and neighbors helped pay back.

Joe From Texas then lived the arc of the American Dream, building a multi-million dollar company called Quality Mat Company, based in Beaumont, Texas. They sell durable mats so that heavy equipment won’t sink in rainy and muddy conditions.

Last week, over 300 people were arrested as pro-Palestinian demonstrators, spearheaded by organizations such as the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), created chaos in New York City by obstructing key transportation arteries, including the Holland Tunnel, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan Bridge.

The protest, described as massive, involved hundreds of people intentionally disrupting traffic in and out of Manhattan, marking the latest escalation in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.

The coordinated demonstration, which began around 10:00 AM, saw protesters strategically blocking bridges and tunnels, with a particularly striking scene at the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge. The disruption extended to the Holland Tunnel, where police arrested dozens who obstructed the entrance, and additional arrests were made at the Manhattan Bridge. Authorities deployed NYPD officers to all three locations to restore order and clear the blockades.

During the demonstration, some protesters employed unconventional tactics, chaining ramming devices to their arms.

Law enforcement officers had to use buzzsaws during arrests to remove these devices, highlighting the situation's intensity. While police described the protest as peaceful, drivers faced significant disruptions throughout the city, leading to a heightened law

Protesters blocking traffic in NYC enforcement response.

The escalation of the demonstrations is linked to the perceived increase in violence in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Protesters, expressing concerns about the allocation of tax dollars, emphasized the importance of making their message known amidst the ongoing crisis.

Notably, the involvement of organizations like the DSA, which boasts members such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has voiced pro-Palestine solid positions, has added a layer of political complexity to the protests. The influence of such prominent figures within the DSA has further fueled these demonstrations, contributing to the intensity and scale of the disruptions.

Amidst the chaos, a protester representing the pro-Palestinian cause expressed the sentiment that the escalating violence necessitated a strong message. The individual conveyed a stance against the Israeli government's actions, framing their participation as fighting for justice for everyone.

Another participant, identifying as an anti-Zionist Jewish person, drew from historical context, pledging not to allow past atrocities to happen again.

The demonstration coincided with the three-month anniversary of the terror group Hamas' attack on Israel and Israel's subsequent invasion of Gaza. Demonstrators declared their intent to escalate protests until a complete ceasefire is achieved, highlighting the ongoing tensions and the desire for a meaningful resolution.

Page 16

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

WORLD

Ukraine's Defense Nightmare: Pentagon Admits Losing $1 Billion in Advanced Weaponry

By Raheem Soto In a startling revelation, the Pentagon has acknowledged the disappearance of a significant military arsenal valued at $1 billion, initially intended for Ukraine. Lawmakers now demand urgent clarification, expressing deep concern over the missing weaponry, including javelins, stinger missiles, and night vision devices. The admission by the Pentagon's inspector general has intensified calls for an immediate investigation to ascertain the fate of these critical military assets.

The revelation raises serious questions about the Pentagon's oversight and tracking procedures, given the high stakes involved in military aid to Ukraine. The unaccounted-for weapons, essential for Ukraine's defense, were reportedly not adequately tracked, leaving the Pentagon unable to confirm whether they were stolen from Ukrainian forces. The potential security risks and the unknown implications for national security underscore the gravity of the situation.

Unlike misplacing everyday items, the disappearance of this military arsenal has far-reaching consequences, prompting lawmakers to question the effectiveness of the Pentagon's logistics and security protocols.

The missing weapons, which include advanced weaponry like javelin and stinger missiles, were intended to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities. The absence of a secure chain of custody for such critical assets raises concerns about potential misuse or diversion into unauthorized hands.

Critics argue that the lack of accountability surrounding the missing arsenal not only jeopardizes Ukraine's security but also erodes confidence in the Pentagon's ability to handle and safeguard vital military resources. National security experts and lawmakers alike have expressed disbelief and are intensifying their demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to this substantial lapse.

This revelation has sparked criticism and calls for reevaluating security protocols.

Lawmakers emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in handling sensitive military resources, particularly those destined for crucial allies like Ukraine.

The incident has broader implications, both diplomatically and regarding national security

collaborations, as concerns about the potential fallout continue to mount.

This disclosure's shockwaves continue reverberating, prompting a reexamination of the Pentagon's logistical systems.

As lawmakers push for answers,

the nation awaits further details on the missing $1 billion military arsenal and its potential impact on international relations, security collaborations, and the safety of those dependent on these crucial weapons for defense.

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WORLD

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 17

Taiwan Voters Choose Democracy, Reject Communist Control

By Robert Chartuk International eyes were on Taiwan over the weekend as the island’s voters went with a president who is against China taking over their republic and rejected his opponent, who ran on the communist threat that if they spurned him, Taiwan would be invaded. The nation’s existence as a democracy is vital to international commerce since it is responsible for producing 90% of the computer chips that make the modern world possible.

Vice President Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party handily defeated his chief opponent, Hou Yu-ih, who had the full backing of the Communist China Party (CCP), which considers its prosperous neighbor its own province. China President Xi Jinping ramped up military exercises and threats to invade Taiwan in advance of the election as Lai Ching-te is expected to continue the war preparations of his predecessor.

“It is a total victory for not only the people in Taiwan but for all the democracies around the world,” said Nicole Tsai of the New Federal State of China, an international group fighting to free the world’s second most populous nation from communist rule. “Despite all of the CCP’s military intimidation, economic coercion, and influence peddling campaign, the Taiwanese people voted in Beijing’s most hated candidate. He stands for Taiwan’s independence from the CCP’s control and manipulation.”

Speaking on the War Room with Steve Bannon, Tsai said Xi Jinping has blocked all news about the election results. Nevertheless, average citizens, known as Lao Bi

Jing, are celebrating the election as a victory against their Red China suppressors, she reported.

“According to CCP’s propaganda, if the Taiwanese people elect Lai Ching-te for president, that means they will be voting for war,” Tsai said of Xi’s threats. Instead, the new Taiwan president put out an olive branch to China and pledged to work with the democracies around the world. He’ll need all the support he can get since his party was only able to secure half of the seats in the Legislative Yuan, the republic’s unicameral legislature in Taipei.

The Biden administration did not take sides in the election, taking a stance described as “disciplined neutrality.” Analysts concluded that the legislature would remain split and the administration wanted to keep open the option of working with both sides. In November, the president met with Xi in San Francisco, along with 400 of the nation’s top business leaders who hailed their economic and political ties to the communist nation. Biden himself is seen as compromised in dealing with China after his son, Hunter, following a trip to Beijing when he was vice president, secured a billion dollar private investment deal from the communists.

“This is where we are going to unmask all of the hypocrisy,” said Bannon, a former advisor to President Donald Trump. “All this whining from the illegitimate Biden regime and all their allies and all the folks in NATO saying it’s all about democracy in Ukraine. Not one of those gutless leaders will step up against the CCP and say, ‘Yes, what Taiwan did, we should recognize as democracy.’ There is no democracy in Ukraine at all.

Here, you had free people in the face of a brutal enemy not even 90

Photo Credit: journalofdemocracy.org

Taiwan Voters chose the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for its third consecutive term. miles away that essentially said, ‘We’re voting for our freedom and our liberty, and we will fight for it if we have to. And all the other folks talking about democracy, they’re all cowards and liars. They haven’t backed Taiwan, they haven’t backed the free Chinese people in Taiwan, they haven’t backed the Republic of Taiwan. Where are all of these people who are saying it's about democracy in Ukraine?’”

Spending bills are knotted up in Washington with both Republicans and Democrats looking to allocate billions more for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. U.S. taxpayers have been on the hook for $113 billion sent to Ukraine so far as U.S. leaders argue that the funds are necessary to protect the nation’s democracy.

“Taiwan is a great role model for democracy,” Tsai said, noting that turnout in the presidential election was about 75%. By comparison, 62.8% of eligible Americans vote,

according to the Pew Research Center, ranking it 31st in the world, while in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has canceled elections. “There are no mail-in ballots in Taiwan, all of the ballots are counted by hand, so there is no chance of election fraud; they don’t use voting machines,” according to Tsai. “So Taiwan is a great role model and it inspired the 1.4 billion people in China to stand up against the CCP. This is why Taiwan is so strategic in terms of geopolitical importance. They matter a lot to the U.S. national interests. Not only in the Indo-Pacific but from around the world because Taiwan has the largest semiconductor manufacturing in the world,” she said, noting that they are planning a new factory in Arizona. “They are trying to reduce Taiwan’s economic dependence on the CCP and that is also something that the United States can learn from. We need to reduce our economic dependence

on the CCP and make America independent and great again.”

Tsai concluded: “The globalists, along with the CCP, are the world’s biggest racists. That’s why they don’t want to talk about Taiwan because Taiwan’s democracy and fair election destroyed their lies. Look at Taiwan: They share the same ancestry, language, and culture as China and have been having fair elections for so many years. And I don’t know why people keep talking about Ukraine, Ukraine, Ukraine.

They should be talking about Taiwan, how given it’s such a small island, it has the immense courage to stand up to the CCP, created the world’s most vibrant democracy and semiconductor industry, and they are a great ally to the United States of America. But the global elites will not recognize Taiwan because once they recognize Taiwan, they are going to return their backs against the CCP and the CCP slavery of the 1.4 billion Chinese people.”

Secretary of Defense Goes AWOL as Global Conflicts Escalate announced he will make his call for impeachment “privileged” to force a vote on Capitol Hill this week.

Austin finds himself in the same company as President Biden, who is under an impeachment inquiry by the Republicans who control the House.

By Robert Chartuk As Houthi rebels attack American warships in the Red Sea, Iranbacked militants hurl missiles at U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, war rages in Ukraine, and Israel keeps up its massive assault against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin baffled the White House by going AWOL, while his second in command of the world’s largest military went on vacation.

When the four-star retired Army general finally surfaced after being laid up from prostate surgery, he directed missile attacks against the Houthis from his hospital bed.

The man who oversees the nation’s nuclear arsenal and is in charge of 1.3 million military personnel deployed around the world had been out of the loop for four days before notifying the White House or Pentagon staff of his condition.

“After Secretary Austin’s failures in properly responding to the

Photo Credit: Palinchak | Dreamstime.com

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Chinese spy balloon gathering intel on Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana and withdrawing from Afghanistan, leaving 13 Americans dead, he is now initiating confrontational actions against foreign countries from his

hospital bed without congressional approval,” said Montana Congressman Matt Rosendale, who initiated articles of impeachment against him. As word of Austin’s untimely disappearance rattled through Washington, Rosendale

In December, Austin underwent a prostatectomy but suffered complications, which necessitated an emergency trip to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, according to a statement from the West Wing. “The White House is currently reviewing Cabinet member protocol following the incident.”

“Not even Austin’s most senior aides at the Pentagon, top officials at the White House, or Biden himself had any idea of his whereabouts and the threats to his health,” wrote the Washington Post in breaking the story. “Kathleen Hicks, the Pentagon No. 2 who could step in for Austin if needed, was vacationing in the Caribbean.”

“Under President Trump, we had peace; countries were afraid to confront us in an adversarial manner. Now, under Biden and Austin’s reign of ignorance, we face new threats seemingly daily,” Rosendale stated. “Secretary Austin has shown himself unfit for the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

In endangering U.S. national security and lying to the American people, he has violated his oath of office and committed high crimes and misdemeanors.”

Biden has declined calls for Austin’s dismissal, staying loyal to him after he executed the president’s sudden withdrawal from Afghanistan, a move Austin had counseled against. Austin “is an intensely private person who doesn’t want to be a burden and doesn’t want to be the center of attention,” said one person who knows him well, the Post reported. “It’s in his DNA: be stoic and noble — in this case, maybe to a fault.”

Page 18

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

SUFFOLK CLOSEUP

BY KARL GROSSMAN It was 50 years ago and I was at my desk at the Suffolk County office of the daily Long Island Press reading an article about a reporter being jailed for not divulging the identity of a source. Sources, especially in investigative reporting, are invaluable, golden.

I was talking about it with the Suffolk editor of The Press, Tom Condon, who was at the desk across from mine, and saying to Tom how important it could be if we had a press club on Long Island to fight for our colleagues in this sort of situation, indeed doing our part in fighting for press freedom.

On Long Island, I was thinking, were hundreds of journalists devoted to the profession of journalism. As we were talking, Dave Woods, then the head of university relations at Stony Brook University, happened to call the office.

I got on the telephone and asked Dave whether I could utilize Stony Brook’s press list to send out an invitation to Long Island journalists to an initial meeting about forming a press club. The meeting was held at the Three Village Inn in Stony Brook. More than 50 journalists were there. And I was elected president.

I worked subsequently at writing a constitution for the press club. I sent letters to press clubs around the U.S. requesting copies of their constitutions and I formulated a constitution based on these.

We elected additional officers including Maurice Swift, a

Newsday editor, who became vice president, and board members from each area of media: print, TV, radio, but not Internet yet as it was 1974.

I have been thrilled as the Press Club of Long Island has grown. It has expanded to become a chapter, in fact one of the largest chapters, of the Society of Professional Journalists, the biggest press organization in the United States.

In these 50 years the club has kept a key focus on freedom of the press—especially important in recent years amid attacks on media, the totally false charge that the press is the “enemy of the people” when, in fact, the opposite is true.

A tidbit: originally my idea was to name the club the Long Island Press Club. This would be consistent with the names of many press clubs: the New York Press Club, Los Angeles Press Club and Cleveland Press Club, the original name of the club in Cleveland where I had been inspired to go into journalism by a college internship in 1960 at the Cleveland Press. But at the time the two major daily newspapers here, competing intensely, were Newsday and the Long Island Press and there was concern among some Newsday folks about this name considering I was with the Long Island Press.

There might be the appearance, it was felt, that this would somehow be a Long Island Press undertaking.

So I quickly suggested Press Club of Long Island instead. And that’s how the club got its name.

The president now of the Press Club of Long Island is Brendan J.

VETERANS WAY

BY REV. FREDERICK MILLER. PH.D. William Booth established the Salvation Army in England 1852. In 1879 he changed the name of the Christian Mission to the Salvation Army. From that point on the members were known as Salvationists.

By 1885 they converted 250,000 Christians and their message spread rapidly, gaining a foothold in other countries including America. Today they are in over 100 countries.

Booth sent his seventh child Eva Cory Booth to America to spread the mission here. During her 30 years as national commander in the United States, she was responsible for the volunteers who served as chaplains and “Doughnut Girls” during World War I. In 1934 she returned to England, but retained her American citizenship until her

50th Anniversary of Press Club of Long Island

O’Reilly, deputy managing editor at the Express News Group which publishes The Southampton Press, The East Hampton Press, The Sag Harbor Express and the website 27East.

Says O’Reilly: “Half a century later, the Press Club of Long Island and similar journalism-advocacy organizations are as relevant as ever. Often for political purposes, Long Island journalists are not only unfairly maligned but also harassed and threatened. Still, they continue to stand up for truth and transparency. PCLI remains strong in its commitment to defending press access and freedom.”

Relates O’Reilly: “We bring journalists together for the annual PCLI Media Awards, sponsor

the Long Island Journalism Hall of Fame, host educational events and conversations on journalism matters for journalists and the public at large, provide speakers for classrooms and conferences, and award thousands of dollars in college scholarships annually for the next generation of journalists.

PCLI has a dedicated board of volunteers who lend their time and their journalism experience to make all this happen.”

Long Island has journalistic history.

a

strong

In 2015 the Press Club created a Historical Studies Committee to conduct research and place historic markers at various important sites of journalism on Long Island. The following year, the first markers

More about the activities of the Press Club of Long Island in this space next week.

Salvation Army Serving Our Military & Veterans deployed to Europe, and the Pacific as well. The term “Donut Dolly” became a generic reference for civilian women volunteers.

This continued right through to the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

death in 1950.

The Doughnut Girls were formed following a British lead, women Salvation Army volunteers were soon found in the immediate rear of the battle lines, serving coffee and donuts to tired, traumatized and combat-weary soldiers in World War I. The choice of preparing donuts came about because of the limited ingredients available in war-torn France and the ease of cooking. Soon the young ladies were affectionately being called, ”Donut Dollies” by the American soldiers. The “Donut Dollies” were close enough to the action that they were issued soldier’s steel helmets and gas masks to protect them from artillery shrapnel and poison gas. In addition to the coffee and donut, the Salvation

were set up which included one in Sag Harbor that declares: “DAVID FRONTHINGHAM— PUBLISHER OF LONG ISLAND’S FIRST NEWSPAPER, FROTHINGHAM’S LONG ISLAND HERALD, 1791-1798, LIVED AND PRINTED AT THIS SITE.” And the club erected a sign in Huntington to commemorate where Walt Whitman founded The Long Islander newspaper in 1838. The Long Islander continues being published. Whitman was more than one of America’s greatest American poets; he was also a great Long Island journalist. There have been more signs placed since.

Photo Credit: Zhukovsky | Dreamstime.com

Salvation Army soldier performs for collections in midtown Manhattan.

Army volunteers also helped with nursing, wrote and read letters for wounded soldiers, mended uniforms and many used their individual musical talents to

provide informal entertainment as occasions arose.

During World War II, women Salvation Army volunteers again

Most people don’t know, however, that the “Army” part of their name isn’t just a reference to the massive volume of volunteers they organize.

During both World Wars, the Salvation Army was right there with troops in trenches, much like today’s MWR and USO. The unpaid volunteers of the Salvation Army put their safety on the line to improve the lives of our nation’s defenders.

They are funded mostly by the Salvation members we see on the streets around this time every year, dressed in red, collecting money in cans.

Help is available to you by calling the local VA hospital in Northport, (631) 261-4400 or Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255. Press 1 to talk to a veteran or have a confidential chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net or text to 838255. If you have any questions relating to veteran problems please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to answer it. Contact us at Drfred72@Gmail.com

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SPORTS

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 19

Ducks Co-Owner and Ex-Manager Bud Harrelson Dies at 79

By Nick Cipolla This past Thursday was a very sad day for baseball fans as former New York Mets Shortstop and Long Island Ducks Legend Bud Harrelson died at a hospice home in East Northport at the age of 79.

“We were saddened to learn of Mets Hall of Famer Buddy Harrelson’s passing," Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen said in a press release made by the Mets Thursday morning. "He was a skilled defender and spark plug on the 1969 Miracle Mets. The Gold Glove shortstop played 13 years in Queens, appearing in more games at short than anyone else in team history.

Buddy was the third base coach on the 1986 World Champs, becoming the only person to be in uniform on both World Series winning teams. We extend our deepest condolences to his entire family.”

Before Harrelson – who was born on D-Day in 1944 – became a fan favorite in Queens, he was just Derrell Harrelson, a scrappy and undersized shortstop for San Francisco State University.

Everything changed for the Bay Area native in 1963 as he would sign an amateur free agent deal with the MLB’s newest expansion franchise, the New York Mets.

“Bud”, as he was called by his family members, spent two years in the minor leagues before he made his debut in Queens during the

1965 season. That season was monumental for him as he became a cornerstone piece for the franchise moving forward as he would remain the starting shortstop until the end of the 1977 season.

The Mets at the time were one of the biggest laughing stocks in all of sports from 1962-1968. They would set records for ineptitude as five of their first seven seasons saw the team lose 100 or more games while never finishing close to .500.

Over his 12 seasons as a Met, Harrelson hit to a .234 batting average while making two All-Star Games in 1971 and 1972. He also won a Gold Glove in 1971 for his superb defensive play which he was known for.

“There wasn’t a play he couldn’t make at short," said former Mets outfielder Ron Swoboda in Newsday following the news of Harrelson’s passing. "When I played left he saved me so many times, coming back to catch pop-ups. We must have had 50 collisions and he never complained once.”

Despite winning a ring in 1969, the moment of Harrelson’s career that was most memorable happened during the 1973 National League Championship against the Cincinnati Reds when he started a fight with the AllTime Hits Leader – and should be Hall of Famer – Pete Rose.

After John Matlack shut down the “Big Red Machine”

Photo Credit: @Mets | Instagram

Harrelson playing Shortstop for the Mets.

in game two of the series, Harrelson told reporters that “He (Matlack) made the Big Red Machine look like me hitting today,” since he wasn’t known for his hitting ability.

Rose apparently was not a huge fan of being compared to a guy who was considered a below average hitter as he would take issue in the fifth inning of game three as the hit king slid hard into second base on a double play ball.

Harrelson was not happy about this and a fight between the two broke out, leading for the benches to clear and the fans at Shea Stadium began throwing bottles and other debris onto the field at Rose.

The Mets would finish out the series with the Reds with a victory and a shot at another World Series title.

Unfortunately, the Mets would blow a 3-2 series lead and would go on to lose in seven games to the Oakland Athletics, missing out on their second championship in five years.

After wrapping up his playing career with the Rangers in 1980, Harrelson managed the Little Falls Mets (a minor league team) in 1984 and was named the New YorkPenn League manager of the year. He also managed the Columbia Mets of the South Atlantic League in 1985.

When Mets third base coach Bobby Valentine accepted a managerial position with the Texas Rangers part way through the 1985 season, Harrelson replaced him on Davey Johnson's coaching staff and was once again a part of the Mets clubhouse.

Harrelson was also on the Major League Coaching Staff when the Amazin’s would make it back to the World Series in 1986 and defeated the Boston Red Sox to secure the team's second World Series, making him the only player in franchise history to be a part of both World Series Winning teams.

Harrelson would stay on the staff into the 1990s as he would replace the legendary Davey Johnson in the middle of the 1990 season as the head coach, guiding the team to their 7th consecutive winning

Photo Credit: Long Island Ducks

Harrelson tipping his coaching helmet to the crowd at a Ducks Game.

season.

Despite the success the year prior and the Mets being contenders for most of the first half of the season in 1991, the team collapsed under Harrelson in the second half.

As a result of the failure, he was fired with a week remaining in the season, being replaced by his third base coach Mike Cubbage. His second season ended with a 74–80 record; the Mets themselves in total finished at 77–84, one-half game behind the fourth place Chicago Cubs after being as close as 2.5 games behind the eventual division winning Pittsburgh Pirates earlier in the year.

After his time with the Mets was over, the former All-Star would co-found the Long Island Ducks, a minor league team, alongside current acting CEO Frank Boulton. This move would be monumental as this brought professional baseball to Long Island and the team has been the class of the Atlantic League since its inception. He also served as a coach during the team’s home games for the 2000 season as well.

“Bud’s impact on Long Island will be felt through Ducks baseball for as long as we play,” said Ducks Owner/CEO Frank Boulton in a statement made Thursday afternoon.

“He was my partner in bringing professional baseball to Long Island following his outstanding playing career in MLB and he made his

mark on so many through his charitable giving, appearances and kindness. He was a oneof-a-kind human being, and he is missed greatly.”​ Harrelson took great pride in the Ducks as the East Northport resident was often spotted in the park taking pictures with fans and enjoying the life of being a coowner of a successful Minor League Team.

“I’m often asked about my best accomplishment in baseball,” Harrelson said during a speech at Hofstra University in 2012. “And I answer, ‘The Long Island Ducks.’ I say it is the best thing I’ve ever done because the fans know me, and I know them.”

Harrelson had been battling Alzheimer's since 2016 and it did not slow down the baseball legend from making public appearances as he attended an event at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip as the Ducks would retire Harrelson’s number 3 in 2018. He also made one more appearance at Citi Field in 2019 to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of the 1969 Mets World Series Victory.

Harrelson is survived by his ex-wife, Kim Battaglia, his five children, Kimberly Psarras and husband John, Timothy Harrelson and wife Diana, Alexandra Abbatiello and husband Tony, Kassandra Harrelson and wife Serena, and Troy Harrelson and wife Arianna, 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Page 20

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

SPORTS

Patchogue-Medford Alumni Stroman Agrees to Deal With the Yankees 14 and allowed three hits. Both pitchers threw complete games.

Mets scout Larry Izzo later called it "one of the best duels I've ever seen" and he made sure to make Matz and later Stroman members of the Blue and Orange.

Stroman later went on to star at Duke before he was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2012 with the 22nd overall pick in the MLB Draft.

He would become one of the best pitching prospects in Baseball prior to his debut in 2014 and has been a two-time All-Star while holding a 3.65 career ERA. As mentioned earlier, this won’t be the first time Stroman will play for a New York team as he was Photo Credit: Patchogue Medford Athletics

Marcus Stroman Pitching for the Pat-Med Raiders

By Nick Cipolla The Yankees have had quite the offseason following their most disappointing season in nearly 30 years by bringing in top talents like Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo to bolster the offense, but the starting rotation needed some help.

After missing out on Yoshinobu Yamamoto – one of the biggest foreign free agent pitchers in recent memory – the Yankees pivoted to a hometown kid as Marcus Stroman will come back to New York as a member of the Yankees in an effort to solidify the back end of the rotation.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan and YES Network's Jack Curry, Stroman reached out to the Yankees early last week in hopes of reaching a deal with the Pinstripes. On Thursday night, both sides agreed on a 2-year, $37 Million deal with a vesting option for a third season if he hits 140 innings pitched in 2024, making the deal worth $55 Million.

The deal is currently pending a physical but both sides verbally agreed to the terms of the deal.

Stroman, 32, was an All-Star last summer with the Chicago Cubs before melting down in the second half of the season, inflating his overall numbers to 10-9 with a 3.95 ERA. He opted out of the final year of his three-year contract with the Cubs in an effort to secure either more money or play in a situation that would allow him to win a World Series while he is still in his prime.

The last time the Yankees won the fall classic, Stroman was dealing for Patchogue-Medford High School as he was considered the best pitcher in New York State. His matchup with another ex-Met and Ward Melville Grad Steven Matz is considered one of the most hyped up and important games in Long Island Baseball history.

In the game against Matz on April 16, 2009, both pitchers – who were travel ball teammates – would get the ball in front of more than 50 scouts from every MLB team. The scouts would not leave disappointed as Matz struck out 12 and allowed one hit, leading his team to a 1–0 victory, while Stroman struck out

traded to the Mets midway through the 2019 season and would pitch in Queens until 2021. His best year in Queens was in his final year as he posted a 3.09 ERA over 179 innings while posting a 10-13 record in 33 starts.

Stroman will join a rotation where he isn’t expected to be the number one starter but instead be a back end of the rotation guy who will give the Pinstripes quality innings behind Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Nestor Cortes Jr. The 2008 Yastrzemski Award Winner made headlines in the past for his hatred of the Yankees, their fanbase, and their policies about facial hair as he was very outspoken

on X – formerly Twitter – about it, even going as far as saying no Yankee was on his level besides Gerrit Cole.

“Besides [Gerrit] Cole, there's no current Yankee pitcher who will be anywhere in my league over the next 5-7 years," Stroman tweeted in 2021. "Their pitching always folds in the end. That lineup and payroll should be winning World Series left and right...yet they're in a drought.

Lol." According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengdale, the hatchet was buried between the two parties after he met one on one with Brian Cashman in Tampa, Florida and the meeting ended with an offer being made to the Long Island Native.

Ducks Promote Sean Smith to General Manager running the show as the Flock’s General Manager.

By Nick Cipolla Prior to entering their 24th season of operation in the Atlantic League, the Long Island Ducks hope to – once again – field a roster full of superstar talent and make it back to the promised land after falling short in the postseason last fall.

Since the season wrapped up last fall, there were a lot of questions as to how the Quack Attack would replace the vacancies at both manager and general manager prior to opening day.

Photo Credit: Long Island Ducks

Sean Smith was appointed to the General Manager Role earlier this week

The Ducks chose to deal with the managerial situation first as ownership decided to promote hitting coach/outfielder and fan favorite Lew Ford to manager prior to the beginning of the new year.

he became the Team President and Chief Business Officer and there were no leads on who would be interviewed or asked to fill Pfaff’s old position up until the day the announcement was made.

Since Ford was hired, the new concern within the organization was who would become the next general manager? Michael Pfaff was moving up in the ranks since

The Ducks once again decided to hire within the organization as assistant general manager Sean Smith was recently promoted by ownership. He will now be

“As we continue to expand our business, we are excited to see and recognize the continued growth of our front office staff,” said Ducks Owner/CEO Frank Boulton in a written statement about the recent promotion of Smith and a few other of his colleagues. “We are looking forward to making 2024 the best season of Ducks baseball yet.”

Along with Smith, the Ducks had also made a bunch of other promotions within the organization that included Anthony Polito being promoted to Smith’s previous position as Assistant GM/Stadium Operations manager.

Sean Mulhall was promoted to Group Sales Manager, Justice Lallier became the Ticket Sales Manager and Augie Fortugno is now the Duck’s Promotions Manager.

Pat-Med Wrestling Wins League Title Following Victory Over Whitman to cruise to an 11-2 win and give Patchogue-Medford a 31-27 victory over Whitman on Wednesday night. This went on to give him a perfect regular season while also clinching the League Title.

By Nick Cipolla In an exciting battle of the unbeatens, Pat-Med knew that if they could come out with a win against Walt Whitman High School, the League I Title would be theirs.

“I needed that first takedown to take off the edge and relax,” Morin said to Newsday following his victory. “This is the greatest feeling ever.”

Everything seemed like it was going their way too as the Raiders had won six of the first seven weight classes and were comfortably ahead on the road against the Wildcats.

This was when the opposition made a miraculous comeback as four consecutive Whitman pins in four consecutive first rounds made it a match to watch as now the Wildcats lead by six with just two matches to go.

If Whitman could win just one of these matches, they would've

Photo Credit: Patchogue-Medford School District

The 2023-24 League I Champion Patchogue-Medford Wrestling Team

walked away with a huge win at home while securing a league title. The remaining matches were Patchogue-Medford’s 285-pounder Hamza Ibn against Daniel Bozic and 101-pounder Aiden Morin against Lucas Tonna with the meet on the line if Ibn was to win his match.

As fate would have it, Ibn would go on and pin Whitman’s Bozic in 1:12 into the match to tie the team score at 27, putting the League I Title into the hands of two underclassmen.

“There was a lot of pressure and

I was just doing my part,” said Ibn, “and I had faith in Morin to finish the job.”

In his match against the Whitman Freshman Tonna, Morin went out and executed the first takedown and used the momentum

After the match, Whitman Coach Tom Anello spoke about the match and he seemed to have his focus on how to improve prior to championship season and how they will continue to work on the little things.

“We had to avoid giving up pins or bonus points,” Anello said. “They got back in it with the pins. It’s a big win.”

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SPORTS

The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Page 21

William Floyd Hoops Dominate Against Quality Opponent

By Nick Cipolla The Patchogue-Medford Raiders have been one of the best teams in League I and in Suffolk County. They have the dramatic wins, big time individual performances, and a roster full of talented players. Usually, this means that they would be a League Champion that would cruise to at least the County Semi-Finals while having State Championship Aspirations, but they have to deal with a Juggernaut within their own league.

The William Floyd Colonials have yet to lose a game this year and they appear to be the best public school team on Long Island as they handed the Raiders their worst loss of the season as the Colonials won at home by a score of 90-53.

From the opening tip, it was clear that the Colonials were the better team and they weren’t going to play with their food but instead were here to take care of business.

Floyd had an impressive showing as they had four scorers

in double figures while everyone who played in any capacity for the Colonials scored at least one point.

The performance of the game was by 6 '7” Forward Dahmarion Moses who recorded his third double-double of the year. The Junior – who has been averaging 8.6 points per game this season – had a game high 12 rebounds while also cashing in for 21 points.

Another player who would put up double figures in points and rebounds was none other than Jawuan Smith. Smith is having an unbelievable year as he is the Colonials’ leading scorer in terms of points per game with 16.4 per game while also grabbing 12.1 rebounds per game.

Against the Raiders, Smith would score 11 points while also corralling 10 rebounds to secure his double-double.

Joey McLaurin – the team's Photo Credit: William Floyd School District second leading scorer on the Jawuan Smith has been having a dominant season for the Colonials. season – would also contribute in a big way as he matched Moses’ while adding in 5 assists onto his The Colonials’comeback point total as he scored 21 points final statline. player of the year Jermaine King (tied for the most of the game)

THE BETTOR ANGLE

TM

BY TOM BARTON

Last week, Nick Saban announced his retirement as head football coach of the University of Alabama, and the very next day, Bill Belichick announced he and the New England Patriots had mutually agreed to part ways. The two miraculous coaching tenures came to an end within hours of each other, and both have had unparalleled success in their coaching careers. All of those wins and championships though only begin to highlight the similarities between the two friends and icons of the football world.

In 2019 HBO did a documentary on the two men and Belichick went as far to say that he believed that somewhere along the line they were probably related. These two icons began their careers in similar fashion, with both actually working on the same staff for the Cleveland Browns in the early 1990's.

They also both have had some

head scratching departures from teams. Saban quit on the Dolphins after a 9-7 season because he knew to win in the NFL you needed an established QB. He eyed Drew Brees, but Miami decided to go in another direction, which led Saban to walk away, leaving every Miami fan forever scorned. Belichick famously walked to the podium with most believing he was taking the New York Jets job, only to mutter that he was not the man for that position. He also left a fan base upset at him leaving as much as he did when he beat them routinely for decades.

The media attention and the way they handled not only players, but the general public also put some light on both of their personalities. Saban was often preaching about how to conduct yourself as an athlete, as much as he spoke about the X's and O's, to the Alabama journalists that ate up his

once again had an impressive showing as he put up 14 points and led all players with 6 assists.

Despite being dominated throughout the contest, Pat-Med still got some production from Angel Redding, Matt Eichorn, and Isaiah Gilliam as all three of them would be in double figures for the Raiders.

Redding would score a team high 18 points while Eichorn had 14 points and Gilliam would finish with 10. If they were able to get just a bit of help from the second unit or any other scoring option could get going, we may have seen the Raiders make this game a bit closer than the result we got.

At the time of this article’s publication, we would know the result of William Floyd’s next game as they will take on the powerhouse Brentwood Indians in a battle of the unbeatens. This game could also be a preview of things to come later in the year as both teams seem to be on the road to winning the Suffolk County Championship.

Greatness Walks Away rhetoric and his famous "so, quit asking" quote still is used in meme's around sports circles.

Bill Belichick was known to grumble and give the media as little as he possibly could, unless it was to go on and on about special teams and the importance of the history of the NFL. Like Saban, Bill's most famous quote was short and sweet "we're onto Cincinnati" will forever live in journalism lore as a new way to say 'next question'.

Their coaching styles and demeanor have always been similar, just like their old school style. But, their successes have linked them more than any other factor. Together they have 13 championships and are at the very top of the conversation about who the best coach of all time would be. Belichick is the only head coach in NFL history to win six Super Bowl championships. He is within 10 victories from the all time wins for a head coach and if

Photo Credit: Jerry Coli | Dreamstime.com

Bill Belichick oversees the Patriot’s defense during training camp.

you add his postseason wins he leads everyone. Saban restored Alabama into a perennial champion. Winning seven titles never having a year with a losing record.

These men will be remembered forever in the

history books, and while they have some detractors they built dynasties that gave us football memories for a lifetime. It's only fitting that both men stole each others headlines, or as they would likely say shared the spotlight.

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Page 22

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

Community Medicaid v. Chronic Medicaid

ASK NANCY

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

Q: A:

My mom has been a recipient of Community Medicaid. As her condition is deteriorating, it is clear she will need long-term care in a nursing facility. I have heard that Community Medicaid will pay for the nursing facility. Is that correct?

No, Community Medicaid will not pay for long termcare in a nursing home. Community Medicaid is the program that covers care at home, such as a personal care aide. Chronic Medicaid is the program that covers nursing home care.

The requirements and application process for Community and Chronic Medicaid are very different.

Additionally, an applicant's marital status implicates yet a different set of rules.

It is important to know the differences and make sure you have the correct Medicaid in effect.

For 2024, an individual applying for Community Medicaid can have no more than $30,182 in assets, excluding the home if the equity is less than

$1,071,000. Qualified funds such as IRAs or 401(K)s are exempt, so long as the applicant is taking minimum distributions, and which are counted towards the monthly income allowance.

The applicant's income cannot exceed $1,677 per month - but there are ways to capture the income using a Pooled Income Trust. While these limitations may seem daunting, the good news about Community Medicaid is that there currently is no look-back period. No lookback means someone wanting to get care at home can transfer assets out of their name and be eligible the following month.

It is important to keep in mind, however, that in April of 2020 New York State passed a law introducing a 30-month lookback period for Community Medicaid. The look-back period was originally set to take effect

in October 2020, but was delayed. The New York State Department of Health recently announced that the earliest the 30-month look-back period will be implemented, if ever, is mid to late 2025.

To qualify for Chronic Medicaid in 2024 an individual applicant can have no more than $30,182 in assets, and no more than $50.00 per month in income. There is no pooled trust option to protect excess income, so any income exceeding $50 per month will go to the nursing home and Medicaid pays the balance.

Like Community Medicaid, qualified funds such as IRAs or 401(K)s are exempt so long as the applicant is taking minimum distributions. Such distributions are the traditional required minimum distributions (RMDs) if the applicants is over 73 years old and living in NYC.

Otherwise, the minimum distributions is calculated based on Medicaid's single life expectancy actuarial table. The home is not an exempt resource unless a spouse, disabled or minor child is living there.

Chronic Medicaid has a five-year look-back period.

This refers to the period of time that the Department of Social Services will review your financials to determine if you made any transfers. To the extent that the applicant has made transfers or has too many assets in their name to qualify, they will be ineligible for Medicaid. However, there are exempt transfers that the applicant can make which will not render them ineligible: A spouse; A child under the age of 21; A blind or disabled child;

A sibling who has an “equity interest” in the home and who has lived in the home for at least a year before the Medicaid application is filed; or A “caretaker” child who has lived in the parent’s home for at least two years before the Medicaid application is filed.

Due to the complexities of eligibility for Community and Chronic Medicaid, it is imperative to consult with an expert attorney in the field.

Nancy Burner, Esq. and Britt Burner, Esq. are attorneys at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing their practice areas on Estate Planning, Elder Law and Trusts and Estates.

Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.

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LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

L15692 - 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024, 1/17/2024 & 1/24/2024

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO SPERRY ASSOCIATES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Pltf. vs. MELISSA & NEIL COMPANY, L.L.C., et al, Defts. Index #601836/2022.

Pursuant to an amended judgment of foreclosure and sale entered July 14, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the steps of the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on February 7, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., prem. k/a 125 Mark Tree Road, Centereach, NY a/k/a District 0200, Section 487, Block 01.00, Lot 030.001.

Said property beginning at a point on the westerly side of Mark Tree Road, said point being distant 1098.78 ft. northerly from the end of a curve connecting the northerly side of Market Street with the westerly side of Mark Tree Road; Running thence along the northerly side of land now or formerly of F & P Realty Co., Inc., NW, 125.12 feet; Thence along the easterly side of land shown on map of Dawn Estates, Map No. 1945, NE, 165.56 feet (Actual) 170.00 feet (Deed); Thence along the southerly side of land now or formerly of Kwik Check Realty Co., SE, 125.12 feet; Thence along the westerly side of Mark Tree Road, SW, 165.56 feet (Actual) 170.00 feet ( Deed) to the point or place of beginning.

Approx. amt. of judgment is $893,421.34 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. PATRICIA M. BLAKE, Referee.

JASPAN SCHLESINGER NARENDRAN, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., File No.- #100979 L15661 - 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024, 1/17/2024 & 1/24/2024 REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE (CWALT 200528CB), Plaintiff - against ROSA A. MARROQUIN, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered

on October 12, 2023. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on the 24th day of January, 2024 at 9:30 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate lying and being at Medford, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

Premises known as 24 Nevada Avenue, Medford, NY 11763.

(District: 0200, Section: 735.00, Block: 06.00, Lot: 008.002) Approximate amount of lien $237,479.26 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 602683/2019. Paul R. Feuer, Esq., Referee. The deposit must be paid by certified check or bank check made payable to the Referee. Cash will not be accepted.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.

Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 Dated: November 15, 2023 During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Against Farmingville, NY 11738 on January 24, 2024 at 2:00 COREY LEMAY A/K/A PM premises known as 30 COREY M. LEMAY, ET AL. Beacon Street, Shirley, NY 11967.

Defendant(s) Please take notice that this Pursuant to a Judgment foreclosure auction shall be of Foreclosure and Sale, conducted in compliance duly entered 10/23/2017, with the Foreclosure I, the undersigned Referee, Auction Rules for Suffolk will sell at public auction, County and the COVID 19 at Brookhaven Town Health Emergency Rules, Hall, 1 Independence Hill, including proper use of Farmingville, NY 11738, masks and social distancing. on 1/26/2024 at 11:00AM, premises known as 30 All that certain plot piece Balsam Drive, or parcel of land, with the Medford, New York 11763, buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece lying and being at Shirley in or parcel of land, with the the Town of Brookhaven, buildings and improvements County of Suffolk and State thereon erected, situate, of New York. District 0200 lying and being in the Town Section 967.00, Block 05.00 Of Brookhaven, County Of and Lot 022.000.

Suffolk And State Of Approximate amount of New York.

District 0200 Section 870.00 judgment $370,001.79 plus Block 03.00 Lot 030.002 interest and costs. Premises The approximate amount of will be sold subject to the current Judgment lien provisions of filed Judgment. is $318,054.88 plus interest Index #619107/2017. and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions Brooke J. Breen, Esq., of the aforesaid Judgment of Referee, Foreclosure and Sale; Index # Aldridge Pite, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff - 40 604459/2015 Thomas Joseph Demayo, Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Esq., Referee.

Melville, NY 11747 MCCABE, WEISBERG 12/27/2023, & CONWAY, LLC, 10 L15673 1/10/2024 & Midland Avenue, Suite 205, 1/3/2024, 1/17/2024 Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 11/6/23 File SUPREME COURT OF Number: 15-311761 SH THE STATE OF NEW L15672 12/27/2023, YORK - COUNTY OF 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024 & SUFFOLK 1/17/2024 BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST NOTICE OF SALE COMPANY, N.A. TRUSTEE FOR SUPREME COURT- AS MORTGAGE ASSETS COUNTY OF SUFFOLK MANAGEMENT SERIES I DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST, NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE V. FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE PATRICIA A. BROWN, ET. ASSETS TRUST 2007-2, AL. MORTGAGE-BACKED NOTICE OF SALE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES NOTICE IS HEREBY 2007-2, Plaintiff, GIVEN pursuant to a Final AGAINST L15668 – 12/27/2023, ORLANDO PEREZ, et al. Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 04, 2023, and 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024 & Defendant(s) entered in the Office of 1/17/2024 Pursuant to a judgment of the Clerk of the County of foreclosure and sale duly Suffolk, wherein BANK OF NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - entered on January 12, 2023. NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK I, the undersigned Referee, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR ASSETS will sell at public auction MORTGAGE CMG MORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff,

MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and PATRICIA A. BROWN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on January 24, 2024 at 11:00AM, premises known as 38 ATLANTIC AVENUE, EAST MORICHES, NY 11940: District 0200, Section 861.00, Block 01.00, Lot 007.000:

Dourland Road n/k/a 16 Dourland Road, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at West Yaphank in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 545.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 023.000.

Approximate amount of judgment is $301,952.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609098/2020.

COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT EAST MORICHES, TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Bryan Browns, Esq., Referee AND STATE OF NEW YORK Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, Premises will be sold New York, New York 10004, subject to provisions of Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm filed Judgment Index File No. 193357-1 # 611929/2015.

Erin McTiernan, Esq. - Referee. L15685 - 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024, Robertson, Anschutz, 1/17/2024 & 1/24/2024 Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants SUPREME COURT OF Concourse, Suite 310, THE STATE OF NEW Westbury, New York 11590, YORK - COUNTY OF Attorneys for Plaintiff. SUFFOLK All foreclosure sales will be conducted in U.S. BANK NATIONAL AS accordance with Covid-19 ASSOCIATION guidelines including, TRUSTEE FOR BAFC but not limited to, social 2007-2, distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION V. OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF RIFKI KUNT, ET AL. IN ACCORDANCE NOTICE OF SALE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN L15674 12/27/2023, pursuant to a Final Judgment 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024 & of Foreclosure dated June 29, 2016, and entered in the 1/17/2024 Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, wherein NOTICE OF SALE U.S. BANK NATIONAL AS SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATION COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, TRUSTEE FOR BAFC U.S. BANK NATIONAL 2007-2 is the Plaintiff and ASSOCIATION AS LEGAL RIFKI KUNT, ET AL. are TITLE TRUSTEE FOR the Defendant(s). I, the TRUMAN 2016 SC6 TITLE undersigned Referee will TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. sell at public auction at the MIGUEL ALVAREZ A/K/A BROOKHAVEN TOWN MIGUEL S. ALVAREZ, ET HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, AL., Defendant(s).

NY 11738, on January 30, Pursuant to a Judgment of 2024 at 4:00PM, premises Foreclosure and Sale duly known as 4 ANDREW entered on September 22, ST, PORT JEFFERSON, 2022, I, the undersigned NY 11776: District 0200, Referee will sell at public Section 284.00, Block 01.00, auction at the Brookhaven Lot 014.0000: Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 ALL THAT CERTAIN PIECE OR on February 6, 2024 at 12:30 PLOT, OF LAND, p.m., premises known as 9 PARCEL

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Page 25

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, AND STATE OF NEW YORK

#614730/2018.

The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time.

Thomas A. Abbate, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 Premises will be sold 18-004019 78773 subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # L15689 1/10/2024, 016727/2013.

Christine 1/17/2024, 1/24/2024 & Grobe, Esq. - Referee. 1/31/2024 Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, SUPREME COURT PLLC 900 Merchants COUNTY OF SUFFOLKConcourse, Suite 310, BROOKHAVEN. Westbury, New York 11590, THE STRATHMORE Attorneys for Plaintiff. T E R R A C E All foreclosure sales H O M E O W N E R S will be conducted in A S S O C I A T I O N S , accordance with Covid-19 INC., Plaintiff -againstguidelines including, CHRISTIAN DIPALERMO, but not limited to, social AS TRUSTEE OF THE distancing and mask JOSEPH J. DIPALERMO wearing. *LOCATION IRREVOCABLE TRUST OF SALE SUBJECT DATED DECEMBER 17, TO CHANGE DAY OF 1998 AND CHRISTIAN IN ACCORDANCE DIPALERMO, et al WITH COURT/CLERK Defendant(s). Pursuant to DIRECTIVES. a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated September 18, L15688 12/27/2023, 2023 and entered on October 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024 & 17, 2023, I, the undersigned 1/17/2024 Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven NOTICE OF SALE Town Hall, 1 Independence SUPREME COURT Hill, Farmingville, NY on COUNTY OF February 7, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.

SUFFOLK U.S. BANK premises situate, lying and TRUST NATIONAL being in Mount Sinai, Town ASSOCIATION, NOT of Brookhaven, County of IN ITS INDIVIDUAL Suffolk and State of New CAPACITY BUT SOLELY York, bounded and described AS OWNER TRUSTEE as follows: BEGINNING at FOR RCF 2 EBO TRUST, the division line between Plaintiff AGAINST Lots 82 and 83 as shown CHYRISSE BAILEY, on the above mentioned TONY BAILEY, ET AL., map; being a plot 70.00 feet Defendant(s) Pursuant to a by 35.12 feet by 70.00 feet Judgment of Foreclosure and by 35.12 feet. District 0200 Sale duly entered September Section 210.00 Block 02.00 5, 2023, I, the undersigned Lot 083.000 Referee will sell at public Said premises known as 78 auction at the Brookhaven HEARTHSIDE DRIVE, Town Hall, 1 Independence MOUNT SINAI, NY 11766 Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 Approximate amount of lien on February 8, 2024 at $5,278.70 plus interest & 12:30PM, premises known costs. as 162 SOUTHAVEN Premises will be sold AVENUE, MASTIC, NY subject to provisions of filed 11950.

All that certain Judgment and Terms of Sale. plot piece or parcel of land, Index Number 612487/2021. with the buildings and ROBERT A. MACEDONIO, improvements erected, ESQ., Referee situate, lying and being in the Schneider Buchel LLP Township of Brookhaven, Attorney(s) for Plaintiff County of Suffolk, State of 666 Old Country Road, Suite New York, District 0200, 412, Garden City, NY 11530 Section 882.00, Block 03.00, Lot 059.000. Approximate {* SOUTH SHO4*} amount of judgment $356,723.11 plus interest L15690 - 1/3/2024, 1/10/2024, and costs. Premises will be 1/17/2024 & 1/24/2024 sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index Notice is hereby given

that an On-Premise Full Liquor Restaurant License, Application ID NA-0340-23153199 has been applied for

by Intheshed Westbury LLC d/b/a The Shed serving beer, wine, cider and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a restaurant for the premises located at 695 Merrick Avenue Westbury NY 11590.

GINGER SCHAEDTLER, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL A S S O C I A T I O N , HOFFMAN & BEHAR, LLP, FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY LLC, COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF SUFFOLK COUNTY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BY THE INTERNAL REVENUE L15697 – 1/10/2024 & SERVICE, NEW YORK 1/17/2024 STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND STATE OF NEW YORK FINANCE, ANDREW H. SUPREME COURT SCHAEDTLER, "JOHN COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DOE" (REFUSED NAME), SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Defendants.

Index No. 609349/2015 ________________________ ________________________ To the above named U.S. BANK NATIONAL Defendants: ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL You are hereby summoned CAPACITY BUT SOLELY to answer the complaint in AS TRUSTEE FOR THE this action and to serve a RMAC TRUST, SERIES copy of your answer, or if 2016-CTT, the complaint is not served Plaintiff, with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the v.

Plaintiff's attorneys within thirty days after the service MATTHEW G. of this summons, exclusive KIERNAN AS PUBLIC of the day of service, and in ADMINISTRATOR OF case of your failure to appear SUFFOLK COUNTY FOR or answer, judgment will be THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN taken against you by default M. SCHAEDTLER A/K/A for the relief demanded in STEPHEN SCHAEDTLER the complaint.

A/K/A STEPHEN MARK NOTICE YOU ARE IN JUDE SCHAEDTLER, DANGER OF LOSING ANY UNKNOWN YOUR HOME HEIRS, DEVISEES, If you do not respond DISTRIBUTEES OR to this summons and SUCCESSORS IN complaint by serving a INTEREST OF THE copy of the answer on the LATE STEPHEN M. attorney for the mortgage SCHAEDTLER A/K/A company who filed this STEPHEN SCHAEDTLER foreclosure proceeding A/K/A STEPHEN MARK against you and filing the JUDE SCHAEDTLER, answer with the court, a IF LIVING, AND IF default judgment may be ANY BE DEAD, ANY entered and you can lose AND ALL PERSONS your home.

WHO ARE SPOUSES, Speak to an attorney or go WIDOWS, GRANTEES, to the court where your MORTGAGEES, LIENORS, case is pending for further HEIRS, DEVISEES, information on how to D I S T R I B U T E E S , answer the summons and E X E C U T O R S , protect your property.

A D M I N I S T R A T O R S , Sending a payment to your OR SUCCESSORS IN mortgage company will INTEREST OF SUCH OF not stop this foreclosure THEM AS MAY BE DEAD, action.

AND THEIR SPOUSES, YOU MUST RESPOND HEIRS, DEVISEES, BY SERVING A COPY OF DISTRIBUTEES AND THE ANSWER ON THE SUCCESSORS IN ATTORNEY FOR THE INTEREST, ALL OF PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE WHOM AND WHOSE COMPANY) AND FILING NAMES AND PLACES THE ANSWER WITH OF RESIDENCE ARE THE COURT. UNKNOWN TO This is an attempt to collect PLAINTIFF, GINGER M. a debt and any information SCHAEDTLER A/K/A obtained will be used for that

purpose.

The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of Honorable Thomas F. Whelan, Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, signed the 15th day of December, 2023 at Riverhead, New York.

The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage on the following property: Tax I.D. No. 0200-982.5002.00-001.000 ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Patchogue, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, known and designated as Lot Numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 as shown on a certain map entitled, "Subdivision Map of Property of Samuel A. Smith, situated at Patchogue, Suffolk County, New York, surveyed May 26, 1925 by May & Smith, Inc., Civil Engineers" and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on June 8, 1925 as Map #795, more particularly bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the easterly side of Bay Avenue at the corner formed by the intersection of the easterly side of Bay Avenue with the southerly side of Uriah Place and from said corner; RUNNING THENCE North 85 degrees 01 minutes 20 seconds East 240.71 feet; THENCE South 06 degrees 05 minutes 20 seconds East 96.07 feet; THENCE South 82 degrees 15 minutes West 237.49 feet; THENCE North 07 degrees 30 minutes 60 seconds West 108.25 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING. Subject to easements, covenants, and restriction of record.

These premises are also known as 409 Bay Avenue, Patchogue, NY 11772.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604

Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12-30-2023.

Office location: Suffolk. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process to c/o the LLC, P.O. Box 516, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

L15711 – 1/17/2024, 1/24/2024, 1/31/2024, 2/7/2024, 2/14/2024, & 2/21/2024 NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff against PETER SPIVAK A/K/A PETER K. SPIVAK, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 3, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on February 15, 2024 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 10 Helene Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. District 0200 Sec 974.60 Block 03.00 Lot 026.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situated, lying and being at Shirley in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York.

Approximate Amount of Judgment is $406,138.34 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 207411/2022.

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules.

The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Elyse Nicole Grasso, Esq., Referee File # CHNY1625

L15712 1/17/2024, 1/24/2024, 1/31/2024 & L15698 1/10/2024, 2/7/2024 1/17/2024, 1/24/2024 & Town of Brookhaven State 1/31/2024 of New York County of Notice of formation of Suffolk Declaration of State Mobile Play, LLC, a limited of Emergency liability company. Arts. Of I, Daniel J. Panico, Supervisor

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LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES of the Town of Brookhaven, pursuant to Article 2-B Section 24 of the New York State Executive law, hereby certify as follows: A State of Emergency for all Hamlets of the Fire Island Barrier Beach has been declared due to the occurrence of a Nor’easter and severe rain event in the Town of Brookhaven, which caused flooding and dune erosion with associated impassable walks, water damage to homes on Fire Island, walkovers and infrastructure. and other related hazards. Such conditions imperil the safety of the citizens of the Town of Brookhaven. I hereby direct the Commissioner of Planning, Environment and Land Management of the Town of Brookhaven to take whatever steps are necessary to preserve the public safety and to render all required and available assistance to protect the security, wellbeing and health of the residents of the Town of

Brookhaven in the Hamlets of Fire Island, including but not limited to, placement of sand on the beaches. That as a result of the occurrence of this Nor’easter and severe rain event and flooding event in the Town of Brookhaven, I hereby declare a State of Emergency within the Town of Brookhaven and the Hamlets of Fire Island is in effect as of 8:00 a.m. Dated: January 9, 2024 Daniel J. Panico, Supervisor Town of Brookhaven Annette Eaderesto, Esq. Witness L15713 - 1/17/2024 Town of Brookhaven State of New York County of Suffolk Declaration of State of Emergency I, Daniel J. Panico, Supervisor of the Town of Brookhaven, pursuant to Article 2-B Section 24 of the New York State Executive law, hereby certify as follows: A State of Emergency for the Town of Brookhaven has

been declared due to the occurrence of a Nor’easter and severe rain event in the Town of Brookhaven, which caused flooding and water damage within the Town of Brookhaven and other related hazards. Such conditions imperil the safety of the citizens of the Town of Brookhaven. I hereby direct the Commissioner of Public Safety of the Town of Brookhaven to take whatever steps are necessary to preserve the public safety and to render all required and available assistance to protect the security, wellbeing and health of the residents of the Town of Brookhaven. That as a result of the occurrence of this Nor’easter and severe rain event and flooding event in the Town of Brookhaven, I hereby declare a State of Emergency within the Town of Brookhaven is in effect as of 8:00 a.m.

Dated: January 10, 2024 Daniel J. Panico, Supervisor Town of Brookhaven

PUBLIC NOTICE The Center Moriches Board of Fire Commissioners meetings will be held at the following times and dates. All meetings will be held at the Center Moriches Fire Department, 301 Main Street, Center Moriches NY 11934.

Date Monday, January 8, 2024 Monday, January 8, 2024 Monday, January 22, 2024 Monday, February 12, 2024 Monday, February 26, 2024 Monday, March 11, 2024 Monday, March 25, 2024 Monday, April 8, 2024 Monday, April 22, 2024 Monday, May 13, 2024 Tuesday, May 28, 2024 Monday, June 10, 2024 Monday, June 24, 2024 Monday, July 8, 2024 Monday, July 22, 2024 Monday, August 12, 2024 Monday, August 26, 2024 Monday, September 9, 2024 Monday, September 23, 2024 Monday, October 14, 2024 Tuesday, October 15, 2024 Monday, October 28, 2024 Tuesday, November 12, 2024 Monday, November 25, 2024 Monday, December 9, 2024 Thursday, December 26, 2024

Submitted, Michael D. Schlosberg Center Moriches Fire District Secretary L15714 - 1/17/2024

Start Time 7:00 PM 7:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 6:00 PM

Meeting Type Organizational Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Budget Hearing Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting Business Meeting

Annette Eaderesto, Witness L15715 - 1/17/2024 TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY NOTICE TO BIDDERS Bids will be received and publicly opened and read aloud in the Town of Brookhaven Town Hall Lobby located at the Brookhaven Town Office Complex, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York, 11738, 3rd Floor, for the following project on the date as indicated at 11:00 am: BID #24004 FORGE ROAD CULVERT AND FISH PASSAGE (PHASE 2) BID DUE DATE: FEBRUARY 1, 2024 Specifications for the abovereferenced bid will be available beginning January 18, 2024.

Preferred Method • Access website: Municipal Market | Brookhaven, NY (brookhavenny.gov): click on link for Bids.

• Follow directions to register and download document.

• Questions must be submitted in writing to the following e-mail: PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov The Town of Brookhaven reserves the right to reject and declare invalid any or all bids and to waive any informalities or irregularities in the proposals received, all in the best interests of the Town.

The Town of Brookhaven welcomes and encourages minority and women-owned businesses and HUD Section 3 businesses to participate in the bidding process.

Town of Brookhaven Purchasing Division Kathleen C. Koppenhoefer, Deputy Commissioner (631) 451-6252 L15716 - 1/17/2024 NOTICE OF HEARING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC ZONING

TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN from the Hamlet Center Overlay District: maximum SOUTH SHORE PRESS front yard setback (25' permitted - 78.9' from PURSUANT TO THE Washington Ave. & 68.1' PROVISIONS OF from CR 111 provided); all ARTICLE IV, SEC. 85-55 parking shall be located in (B) OF THE BUILDING the rear yard (parking in ZONE ORDINANCE front yard provided); parking OF THE TOWN OF shall not be provided in front BROOKHAVEN, NOTICE of building setback (parking IS HEREBY GIVEN in front of building setback THAT THE BOARD proposed). (0200 14000 0400 OF ZONING APPEALS 029001) WILL, IN ACCORDANCE WITH OPEN MEETINGS 12. CB Suffolk LLC, 1856 LAW, HOLD THE Hempstead Turnpike, E. FOLLOWING, AT ONE Meadow, NY. Location: INDEPENDENCE HILL, Southeast corner Nesconset FARMINGVILLE, N.Y.: Port Jefferson Rd. (Rt 1. A WORKSESSION ON 25A) & Olive St. (not JANUARY 22, 2024 (BZA open) & Northeasst corner CONFERENCE ROOM – Washington Ave. (not 1ST FLOOR) AT 4:00 P.M., open) & Port Jefferson 2. A PUBLIC HEARING Westhampton Rd. (CR ON WEDNESDAY, 111)(not open), Mt. JANUARY 24, 2024 (2ND Sinai. Applicant requests FLOOR AUDITORIUM) permission for proposed COMMENCING AT detached sign to be located 2:00 P.M. (THE PUBLIC less than the required HEARING WILL BE 22' from Nesconset Port LIVE STREAMED OVER Jefferson Rd. (5' provided).

THE INTERNET AT h t t p s : / / b r o o k h a v e n n y . 13. Pina Notarantonio, c/o p o r t a l . c i v i c c l e r k . c o m , Woodhull Expediting, 800 TO CONSIDER THE Veterans Memorial Hwy., MATTERS LISTED Ste. - CL-101, Hauppauge, BELOW and 3.

A NY. Location: South side WORKSESSION ON Palmetto Dr., 905' West of JANUARY 24, 2024, Johns Neck Rd., Shirley.

(PUBLIC DINING Applicant requests division AREA 2ND FLOOR) of a parcel into 3 plots, 1, COMMENCING AT 2 & 3 requiring lot area, THE END OF THE CALL lot frontage, minimum & OF EITHER THE 2:00 total side yard variances P.M. PUBLIC HEARING for proposed one family CALENDAR AND/ dwelling on plot 1. (0200 OR THE END OF THE 98190 0300 011000, 012000, CALL OF THE ENTIRE 013000 & 014000) PUBLIC CALENDAR, AS TIME PERMITS TO 14. Timothy Walsh, c/o DISCUSS THE DECISION Woodhull Expediting, 800 CALENDAR Veterans Memorial Hwy., Ste. - CL-101, Hauppauge, 11. CB Suffolk LLC, 1856 NY. Location: South side Hempstead Turnpike, E. Palmetto Dr., 805' West of Meadow, NY. Location: Johns Neck Rd., Shirley.

Southeast corner Nesconset Applicant requests lot area, Port Jefferson Rd. (Rt lot frontage, minimum and 25A) & Olive St. (not total side yard variances for open) & Northeast corner existing one family dwelling Washington Ave. (not on plot 2. open) & Port Jefferson Westhampton Rd. (CR 15. Janine Cashel, c/o 111)(not open), Mt. Sinai. Woodhull Expediting, 800 Applicant requests the Veterans Memorial Hwy., following relief for proposed Ste. - CL-101, Hauppauge, one story multi-tenant office NY. Location: South side building: minimum natural Palmetto Dr., 705' West of landscaping along street Johns Neck Rd., Shirley. frontage (15' required - Applicant requests lot area, none provided); buffer to lot frontage, minimum & residential zoning across total side yard variances street (25' required - none for proposed one family provided); parking in front dwelling on plot 3. yard prohibited (parking in front of building provided); 16. J. Nazzaro Partnership, also, the following relief LP, 8 Saxon Ave., Bay Shore,

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LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES NY. Location: Northwest corner Rt 25 (Middle Country Rd.) & Mt. Sinai Coram Rd., Coram. Applicant requests relief of the following for proposed restaurant with drive-thru (Popeye's): front yard setback (25' maximum permitted - 32' proposed from Rt. 25 & 78.88' proposed Mt. Sinai Coram Rd.); all sides of building should be equally attractive architectural details such as texture, pattern, color, and facades (not provided); downspouts to be designed to blend with building's style or theme and avoid a "tacked-on" or mechanical appearance and shall be closed & entirely screened from view (not provided); minimum 50% of large pane display windows of front facade to provide views into interior of building and shall be clear glass (not provided).

(0200 45100 0100 003002) 17. J. Nazzaro Partnership, LP, 8 Saxon Ave., Bay Shore, NY. Location: Northwest corner Rt 25 (Middle Country Rd.) & Mt. Sinai Coram Rd., Coram. Applicant requests permission for proposed ground sign to be located on the site with a single individual business (not permitted - 1 proposed).

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL COMMENCE AT 4 P.M. 21. W a v e c r e s t Constsruction Inc., c/o Salvatore Guerrera, President, 98 Silas Carter Rd., Manorville, NY. Location: North side of South St. 626.44' West of Silas Carter Rd. (West side of Silas Carter Rd.), Manorville. Applicant requests relief of stipulation imposed by the Board of Zoning Appeals decision of 3/9/22 stating "access to lot 2 shall be relocated to the east side of lot 1 via the existing driveway on lot 1 and minimum 100 ft. setback shall be established on the western property line for proposed lot 2". (0200 50800 0200 040000)

23. Aminah Mohammed, 113 Slate Ln., Levittown, NY. Location: North side Sunburst Dr. 100.03' East of Twilight Rd., Rocky Point.

Applicant requests extension of non-conforming use for existing conversion of open screen porch to habitable space (front dwelling) and existing conversion of garage to habitable space (rear dwelling).

25. Vicki Geraci, c/o Woodhull Expediting, 800 Veterans Hwy. Ste CL 101, Hauppauge, NY. Location: West side Ridge Rd., 3,825' North of Whiskey Rd., Ridge. Applicant requests special permit to harbor 2 goats and 2 pigs. (0200 19100 0200 002000)

Expediting 800 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Ste CL-101, Hauppauge, NY. Location: East side Birch Hill Rd., 487.56' North of High Hill Rd., Mt. Sinai. Applicant requests height variance for proposed 18' high 1120 sq. ft. detached garage (14 ft. high - 600 sq. ft. permitted) located in the front yard (not permitted); side yard variance for existing chicken coop. (0200 06900 0200 009000)

40. Brett Gibbons and Lora Lukasz, c/o Woodhull Expediting 800 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Ste CL-101, Hauppauge, NY. Location: East side Birch Hill Rd., 487.56' North of High Hill Rd., Mt. Sinai. Applicant requests permission for 13 existing chickens and 26. Vicki Geraci, c/o 3 existing ducks (6 fowl Woodhull Expediting, 800 permitted).

Veterans Hwy. Ste CL 101, Hauppauge, NY. Location: 43. Janet Nelson & Bruno Applicant requests side yard Pajaczkowski, c/o Andrew variances for proposed barn Malguarnera, 713 Main with roof over and side yard St., Port Jefferson, NY. South side variance for second proposed Location: Rugby Dr. W. 125' East barn. of Pine Tree Dr., Shirley.

29. East American Traders, Applicant requests rear yard Inc., 189 Robinwood Dr., variance for proposed one Shirley, NY. Location: story residence addition; West side Beaver Dr., 200' permission for existing South of Birch Rd., Mastic conversion of attached Beach. Applicant requests garage to habitable space and lot area, lot frontage, front storage; rear yard variance yard setback, rear yard, and for existing shed; also, side minimum and total side & rear yard variances for yard variances for proposed existing roof over attached one family dwelling. (0200 to said shed. (0200 98320 0700 003000) 97900 1900 041000) 34. Dylan Martin, c/o Building Permits Plus, 19 Stillwood Rd., Brookhaven, NY. Location: East side Johns Neck Rd. 2,246.1' South of Elm Rd., Shirley.

Applicant requests permission for proposed raising of existing one family dwelling creating 3 stories (2 1/2 stories permitted); also, side yard variances for proposed 2nd story deck.

(0200 98330 1200 016000) 35. Ted Murcott, 79 Riviera Dr., Mastic Beach, NY. Location: East side Riviera Dr., 280' South of Forest Rd., Mastic Beach.

Applicant requests front yard setback variances for existing deck (not permitted) and existing 2nd story balcony (not permitted).

(0200 98070 1500 006000)

22. Aminah Mohammed, 113 Slate Ln., Levittown, NY. Location: North side Sunburst Dr. 100.03' East of Twilight Rd., Rocky Point. Applicant requests Certificate of Existing Use for 2 existing one family dwellings on one parcel. 39. Brett Gibbons and (0200 03400 0800 002000) Lora Lukasz, c/o Woodhull

CASES WILL BE HEARD AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD. HOWARD M. BERGSON CHAIRMAN L15717 - 1/17/2024

Clerk Town of Brookhaven L15718 – 1/17/2024 LEGAL NOTICE Medford Fire District PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on February 8, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Medford Fire District Office located at 171 Oregon Avenue, Medford, New York 11763, the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Medford Fire District, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, New York, will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed exemption of ten percent (10%) of the assessed value of property owned, or co-owned, in the district by qualifying volunteer firefighters or ambulance workers who, among other things, have served for two (2) years as a volunteer firefighter or ambulance worker. An exemption for un-remarried spouses of volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers that died in the line of duty is also being considered. These proposed tax exemptions are made pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 466-a.

All interested residents of the Medford Fire District are invited to attend and comment. The Board of Fire Commissioners may meet immediately following the public hearing vote on the proposal.

Date: January 11, 2024 Board of Fire Commissioners Medford Fire District Town of Brookhaven Attested: Kathleen Dugan District Secretary L15719 – 1/17/2024

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE Medford Fire District

Notice is hereby given that the following amendment to the 2024 Fee Schedule – Recycling & Sustainable Materials Management of the Town of Brookhaven Adding the following under Landfill Fees: “Vehicles with Department Approved Construction/Demolition Debris Process Residue 6” Screened” per ton at $53.00+* was adopted by the Brookhaven Town Board on 1/11/2024.

Dated: January 11, 2024 Farmingville, New York Kevin J. LaValle, Town

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on February 8, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Medford Fire District Office located at 171 Oregon Avenue, Medford, New York 11763, the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Medford Fire District, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, New York, will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed exemption of ten percent (10%) of the assessed value of property owned, or co-owned, in the district by qualifying volunteer firefighters or ambulance workers who,

among other things, have served for more than twenty (20) years as a volunteer firefighter or ambulance worker. An exemption for un-remarried spouses of volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers that died after twenty (20) years of service is also being considered. These proposed tax exemptions are made pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 466-a.

All interested residents of the Medford Fire District are invited to attend and comment. The Board of Fire Commissioners may meet immediately following the public hearing vote on the proposal.

Date: January 11, 2024 Board of Fire Commissioners Medford Fire District Town of Brookhaven Attested: Kathleen Dugan District Secretary L15720 – 1/17/2024 NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received, publicly opened and read aloud at 11:00 a.m. in the Town Hall Lobby of the Town of Brookhaven, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, for the following item(s) on the dates indicated:

and HUD Section 3 businesses to participate in the bidding process.

Further information can be obtained by calling (631) 451-6252 Kathleen C. Koppenhoefer Deputy Commissioner TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN L15721 – 1/17/2024 PUBLIC NOTICE Notice Is Hereby Given that pursuant to Section 20(5) of the Municipal Home Rule Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven at One Independence Hill, Second Floor, Farmingville, New York 11738, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 1st day of February, 2024, at 2:30 p.m., to consider enacting the following proposed Introductory Local Law: Introductory Local Law Number 2 of 2024

Amend Chapter 57 Entitled “Shellfish,” Article VI Entitled “Designated Management Areas and Winter Grounds,” Section 57-34 Entitled “Management Areas,” “57 Attachment 1, Bid #24003 – HDPE Pipe Exhibit A, Management Material & Fittings, Rebid-- Areas” of the Code of the -February 1, 2024 Town of Brookhaven Specifications for the above- Summary referenced bids will be available beginning January It is the intent of this 18, 2024. amendment to Chapter 57 entitled “Shellfish,” Article Preferred Method VI entitled “Designated • Access website: Municipal Management Areas and Market | Brookhaven, NY Winter Grounds,” Section (brookhavenny.gov): click 57-34 entitled “Management on link for Bids. areas,” “57 Attachment 1, • Follow directions to Exhibit A, Management register and download Areas” of the Code of the document.

Town of Brookhaven to • Questions must be expand the Management submitted in writing to the Area within Bellport Bay. following e-mail: P u r c h a s i n g G r o u p @ This is a summary of the brookhavenny.gov proposed Local Law, a full copy of which is on file in The Town of Brookhaven the Town Clerk's Office and reserves the right to reject is available for inspection and declare invalid any or during regular Town all bids and to waive any business hours. informalities or irregularities in the proposals received, At said public hearing, any all in the best interests of persons interested shall be the Town. The Town of given the opportunity to be Brookhaven welcomes and heard. encourages minorities and women-owned businesses Kevin J. LaValle

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LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES Town Clerk of the Town of NOTICE IS HEREBY Brookhaven GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, Dated: December 19, 2023 Suffolk County, New York, Farmingville, New York at a regular meeting thereof held on January 11, 2024 L15722 – 1/17/2024 duly re-adopted a resolution to permissive Notice of Re-Adoption of subject a Resolution Subject to referendum, the purpose Permissive Referendum and effect of which is to Authorizing an Extension authorize the an extension to the Lease Agreement to the Lease Agreement With the Town of between the Town of Brookhaven and New Brookhaven and Verizon York SMSA Limited Wireless authorizing the Partnership d/b/a leasing of 480 sq. ft. of Verizon Wireless for the property at the Mark Tree Leasing of Approximately Road, Centereach Property 480 Square Feet of SCTM 0200-487.00-02.00Property at Mark Tree 000.001, for a period of five Road, Centereach, New years, with four additional five-year renewal terms, said York

current Lease Agreement will expire on September 30, 2024. Verizon Wireless shall pay an annual lease amount of $2,697.08 per year with an annual escalation of two (2%) percent of the annual payment of the immediately preceding year, for the term and renewal terms, for the leasing of Town property, .

The subject resolution is available for public inspection between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Brookhaven Town Clerk’s office located at One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York.

Dated: January 11, 2024 Farmingville, New York

By Order of the Town Board

Town of Brookhaven, which Town of Brookhaven Kevin J. LaValle, Town may cause flooding, water damage and dune erosion Clerk with associated impassable walks, walkovers, roads, L15723 – 1/17/2024 water damage to homes, Town of Brookhaven State infrastructure and other Such of New York County of related hazards.

Suffolk Declaration of State conditions imperil the safety of the citizens of the Town of of Emergency I, Daniel J. Panico, Brookhaven. I hereby direct Supervisor of the Town of the Commissioner of Public Brookhaven, pursuant to Safety and the Commissioner Article 2-B Section 24 of the of Planning, Environment New York State Executive and Land Management of the law, hereby certify as follows: Town of Brookhaven to take A State of Emergency for whatever steps are necessary the Town of Brookhaven to preserve the public safety including all Hamlets of the and to render all required Fire Island Barrier Beach is and available assistance to hereby declared due to the protect the security, welloccurrence of a Nor’easter being and health of the and severe rain event in the residents of the Town of

Brookhaven including the Hamlets of the Fire Island Barrier Beach. That as a result of the occurrence of this Nor’easter and severe rain event and flooding event in the Town of Brookhaven, I hereby declare a State of Emergency within the Town of Brookhaven inclusive of the Hamlets of Fire Island is in effect as of 11:00 p.m., January 12, 2024.

Dated: January 12, 2024 Daniel J. Panico, Supervisor Town of Brookhaven Melinda Zavesky, Witness L15727 - 1/17/2024

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

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The South Shore Press • January 17, 2024

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Cozy Ranch with Farmhouse appeal, bright and airy, custom crafted kitchen, new windows throughout, original hardwood floors, oversized living room, big formal dining room with French doors opening to new deck. Large lot with detached garage, fully fenced yard.

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LAND BARGAINS Mastic 60’ x 100’ - needs road............................................................................................... $32,000