The South Shore Press 20/03/24

ByRobertChartuk

Kennedy Audit Exposes Millions in Wasted Cyber Spending

Nearly $14 million in unnecessary expenses were made by Steve Bellone when he was county executive in the wake of the 2022 cyberattack that paralyzed Suffolk government for months, with another $3.5 million lost in annual recurring costs, according to Comptroller John Kennedy in a report released last week.

“Please be advised, over the past several months, my office and the Department of Information Technology (DoIT) have met on a weekly basis to discuss various technology matters throughout the county,” Kennedy said in reporting his findings to Bellone’s successor, county Executive Edward Romaine.

“Please be further advised, this letter serves to apprise you of current county technical developments and findings as follows, which in summary could have resulted in a total cost avoidance of $13.8 million with an annual recurring savings of $3.5 million.” Kennedy also forwarded the report to Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney.

According to the Comptroller, the wasted funds do not include “possible losses for not submitting significant sums to the state for Health Services reimbursement, nor do they include significant process costs that cannot be fully calculated with the information that is currently available.” Kennedy said he is continuing to review not only the county’s Information Technology operations under Bellone but other departments as well to weed out misspent funds and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Another review of the cyber hack by a special county legislative committee looking to pinpoint how the attackers got in and make recommendations on cybersecurity is pending.

According to the committee’s chairman, county Legislator Anthony Piccirillo, the investigation is on hold pending the testimony of Bellone’s former deputy, Lisa Black, who has yet to line up legal representation.

Kennedy argues that Bellone had no basis to continue the 16 months of emergency declarations that gave him the authority to make purchases without going through the normal bidding process or legislative review. “He acted without any element of oversight, scrutiny, or engagement of any other branch of government, which led to what appears to have been rampant, wasteful expenditures with Suffolk County taxpayers left holding the bag,” Kennedy said.

“Let’s be real clear about what is going on here,” Bellone said.

“The information released by John Kennedy is not a report at all, but a blatantly political document issued by a selfproclaimed ‘cyber idiot.’ This is just the latest chapter in a coverup and whitewash being orchestrated by the individual most directly responsible for allowing the cyber attack.”

The reference is apparently to Peter Schlussler, the former IT chief in the county clerk’s office Bellone says is responsible for the 2022 hack. In testimony before the special legislative committee, Schlussler placed the blame for the attack on the Bellone administration. He’s currently pursuing a libel case against the former county executive and members of his staff for comments they made about him as the massive scope of the disruption unfolded.

Shortly after the release of Kennedy’s report, news broke of the hiring of Bellone’s former DoIT chief, Scott Mastellon, by SVAM, a Great Neck company that was previously contracted by the county for computer technology work. Romaine reported that an outside auditor has been retained to

look into SVAM invoices and other expenditures by Bellone, especially those made under his emergency declaration. “The optics of this certainly don’t look good,” said Romaine, who supports a legislative proposal to prohibit county employees from working for organizations that they were responsible for giving taxpayer funds to for at least a year.

Romaine last week replaced Mastellon as head of DoIT with John McCaffrey, a former chief information officer for Westchester County and Orange counties, among other roles in the IT field. The chief information security officer hired by Bellone months after the cyberattack, Kenneth Brancik, has been let go by the new administration.

“We are working in earnest in order to unwind and examine, end to end, every element of dysfunction under the former county executive and will not stop until it is found, until it is remedied, and until Suffolk County systems are put back in working order,” Kennedy exclaimed.

Among his findings was that the Bellone administration unnecessarily purchased $3.2 million in Virtual Private Network (VPN) software that was not placed in production since there “was/is no tangible benefit.” Existing software, he concluded, “was/is a more than sufficient solution. No clear reasoning was offered on the rationale for this purchase.”

The Comptroller also rapped Bellone for implementing a system for the collection of Hotel/Motel taxes that “lacks the accounting functionality required for auditing purposes.”

The annual cost of $269,000 for the system will be reduced to under $20,000 with the implementation of alternative tax collection software, Kennedy noted.

The system for Methadone Clinic Billing reimbursement from the state was discontinued after the cyberattack, leaving money owed to the county uncollected, Kennedy also disclosed. “There was no discernable plan on how this money was going to be submitted to the state for payment; therefore, nothing was done by the previous administration,” he said. “It should be noted there are deadlines for reimbursement submissions, so there is no real accounting of how much of the outstanding amount will not be reimbursed.”

Kennedy recommended that a Vendor Self Service system that was shelved after the cyberattack be put back into operation. It would allow county vendors to submit electronic invoices, initiate Electronic Fund Transfer payments, and check the status of submissions without having to contact county staff. “This will yield a major paperless process improvement in addition to improved constituent service,” he said.

Replacing Microsoft Exchange with Microsoft 365 would have allowed the county to get its email system running again in weeks after the cyberattack rather than months, Kennedy said, adding that his efforts to move operations to a cloud-based system where they would be safer were hampered by Bellone staffers.

Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy

Former Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone

Photo Credit: Suffolk Comptroller’s office Photo Credit Robert Chartuk

ByRobertChartuk

Babylon Body Parts Suspect in Jail on Shoplifting Charges

It didn’t take long for a suspect out with no bail in the Babylon Body Parts case to be arrested again, this time for stealing cosmetics from a Lindenhurst CVS, according to police. Amanda Wallace, 40, of Amityville, was arrested for petit larceny while wearing an ankle monitoring device Friday evening.

Wallace and three other defendants reignited a firestorm of criticism over the state’s

cashless bail law after they were charged in a case involving body parts discovered in a Babylon park by a young girl walking to school. District Attorney Raymond Tierney lambasted the law after the suspects were released on their own recognizance. He is actively pursuing a double murder investigation based on the body parts, which were also found in two other locations, and a gruesome crime scene at a house in Amityville where Wallace lived with two of the suspects.

According to information filed in District Court following her arrest, Wallace admitted to a Suffolk Police officer that she stole eyelashes and nail polish. “I forgot my money and really didn’t feel like walking back over,” she reportedly said.

Since she violated the terms of her cashless release in the body parts case, Wallace was held without bail by Judge James McDonaugh. He set bail for the shoplifting at $5,000 cash or $10,000 bond. “At the bare

Thomas Bivona, Deputy Sheriff’s PBA President

ByRobertChartuk

Representing 265 men and women in Suffolk law enforcement, the Deputy Sheriff’s PBA has a new president, 13-year department veteran Thomas Bivona. The union, headquartered in Ronkonkoma, supports a vibrant workforce in its mission to keep Suffolk safe.

Starting out on highway patrol on the midnight shift, Bivona moved over to district court, where he was responsible for those in custody. His first attempt at running for a union board seat saw him lose by six votes, but he impressed the leadership and was appointed treasurer when the position became open a few months later. From there, he was elected 2nd vice president, and when President John Becker was promoted to undersheriff in the Errol Toulon administration, Bivona stepped up to president. Becker’s 1st vice president, Artie Sanchez, decided to stay in that role, opening the position for Bivona.

The 1996 William Floyd graduate stayed close to home studying accounting and computer information systems at Suffolk Community College and Stony Brook University. He worked at Brookhaven Town’s Calabro Airport and the Parks Department before joining the Deputy Sheriffs.

A key issue for the new Police Benevolent Association president is decreasing the pay disparity between the deputies and Suffolk Police officers, who are part of a much larger force and have

more influence when it comes to contract negotiations. The difference in starting salary between the two departments is $10,000, with new deputies earning $33,000. The top base pay for the police is $158,000 after 11.5 years, while it’s only $102,000 for deputies after 12, Bivona notes, adding, “For the first time ever, we’re losing people to the New York City Police. They’ve always come over to us; This is unheard of. The fact is, the deputies were not treated fairly by the previous administration.”

Another item on the list of changes Bivona is working toward is the way department overtime is calculated, with deputies hired since 2006 losing additional pay if they take leave during a pay period, a restriction that came about through arbitration, which is not imposed on the county police. He’s also looking to reduce the amount of time, currently 12 years, it takes a deputy to get to the top pay grade, another disparity he said reduces the department’s ability to recruit and retain new members.

With the current contract for

minimum, you should be able to go nine days without being rearrested,” Judge McDonaugh reportedly told the defendant. Also charged were Steven Brown, 44, and Jeffrey Mackey, 38, of Amityville, and Alexis Nieves, 33, who is homeless.

The four suspects have pleaded innocent to felony counts of firstdegree hindering prosecution, concealment of a human corpse, and tampering with physical evidence by concealing or destroying it. Police have

identified one of the victims as Donna R. Conneely, 59, with a last known address in Yonkers. The second victim, a male, has not been named.

The case put the state’s cashless bail law back into the spotlight and renewed calls for Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Democrats who control the legislative process in Albany to rework the state’s criminal justice system, which was radically altered under former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

GiGi’s Playhouse 3rd Annual Gala

the deputies expiring at the end of the year, the union will be at the negotiating table not just with the sheriff but also with the county executive. “It’s a threeway discussion, which obviously makes it more difficult because now you need all three parties having to agree,” Bivona said, adding that a preliminary contract would then go to the membership for ratification. Another item that will surely come up at the bargaining table is the use of body cameras, an issue that’s already been settled with the police, who earn an additional $3,000 per year for wearing them.

Bivona, along with many of his colleagues in law enforcement, is actively lobbying for changes to the state’s cashless bail law, legislation that has made the state less safe, he argues, and the job more difficult for the deputies.

A resident of Manorville, the union president is a family man with a son currently enrolled at SUNY Binghamton and a daughter at Eastport-South Manor Junior High School. He and his wife, Janice, are both William Floyd alumni.

ByRobertChartuk

Congressman Andrew Garbarino was among the guests at the 3rd Annual Wonderland Gala sponsored by GiGi’s Playhouse Long Island in Patchogue. He announced federal funding to help launch GiGi University’s career readiness program and the Hugs & Mugs supported employment program.

GiGi's Playhouse is committed to seeing a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted and provides free educational, therapeutic-based, and career

development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community.

With over 60 brick-andmortar locations across the United States and Mexico, GiGi’s is North America’s only network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers.

Every day, they provide free, life-changing therapeutic, educational, and career training programs for more than 30,000 individuals of all ages.

For more information, visit www.gigisplayhouse.org.

Suffolk DA Ray Tierney says NY bail laws don’t consider ‘dangerousness’

Photo Credit: Thomas Bivona

Deputy Sheriff’s PBA President Thomas Bivona

ByRobertChartuk

Anthony Piccirillo, Legislative Force

Chairing key committees in county government, Legislator Anthony Piccirillo has a lot to say about how Suffolk operates and where taxpayer dollars are spent. The Holbrook lawmaker, now in his third term, is part of a Republican majority seeking to take the county in a different direction after years of Democrat rule.

“Finances are always on the top of my mind since each of us, respectively, is a trustee of a $4 billion budget,” Piccirillo said of his role with the legislature. “We have a fiduciary responsibility to make sure that we are providing services at the best price and most efficient way possible.”

The chair of the Environment, Parks and Agriculture Committee and the Capital Budget Working Group added, “As a Conservative and fiscal watchdog, I tend to always lean on finances and where we are with sales tax numbers and property tax collection; l want to know what we're paying for services, what we're paying for third party contractors. I think that's a big part of the legislature that sometimes gets overlooked because we do so many things as a county.”

An environmental and economic priority of the legislator is the creation of new sewer capacity to help keep Suffolk waterways clean and provide opportunities for growth. He’s looking to sewer the Holbrook Business District and about 360 homes in the

low-lying Idle Hour section of Oakdale, a project that is expected to be bolstered by a $35 million federal grant he’s working on with Congressman Andrew Garbarino. Piccirillo supported the bill sent to Albany for state permission to hold a public vote on raising the sales tax an eighth of a cent for sewers and private cesspool upgrades, key components of the county’s longrange wastewater treatment plan.

“Holbrook competes with the Ronkonkoma Hub and Patchogue, so we want the residents to have choices when they go out to eat or shop at local businesses,” Piccirillo said in explaining the economic value of sewers. He said the area will also benefit from capital expenditures approved by the working group to improve Patchogue-Holbrook Road.

The 8th District legislator is also focused on the creation of a new county park on the site of the former Sachem administration building on Union Avenue in Holbrook. The project, including the demolition of the asbestosladen facility, will be a joint effort between Brookhaven Town and the state and federal governments, he noted. Other priorities of the capital group are crosswalk improvements, guardrails, median upgrades, and other safety measures along county roads.

To protect the Great South Bay and local beaches, a vital asset for both residents and tourists alike, Piccirillo is working with Cornell Cooperative Extension to map

stormwater runoff to identify areas in need of mitigation. Coastal resiliency is also on his radar, given the damage to Fire Island and lowlying coastal communities during the January storms.

The lawmaker pointed to two noteworthy pieces of legislation he was behind: a law requiring those selling catalytic converters to recyclers or junkyards to provide identification and a Transition of Powers law that requires outgoing elected officials to maintain records, office equipment, and other details for their successors, a measure born

of the emptied out space Piccirillo encountered when he was first elected.

In one of his most visible roles, Piccirillo serves as chair of the special committee looking into the 2022 cyberattack that crippled county government for months, the first investigatory body in Suffolk in decades with subpoena powers. The chairman, who oversees a special counsel retained to assist the committee, stressed that their focus is both on finding out how hackers gained access to the county’s network under former

county Executive Steve Bellone and making recommendations on how the government can better protect itself.

The legislator pointed up the importance of legislative investigations, believing that the lawmakers are co-equal to the executive branch as shepherds of the public dollar. “I don't see the government as a sword; it’s a shield for citizens and taxpayers to make sure that their money and their data and their quality of life are protected,” he explained. “That’s what I understand is the purpose of government. In my role as the chair of the special committee, I think the word is out that you need to come to work, and you need to perform in a professional way within the rules, or the legislature is going to call you to task,” he promised. “We hold the oversight of the county, and I believe we have to wield that oversight in order to hold people accountable so that the taxpayers are getting the biggest bang for their buck.”

Tipping his hat to the new county executive, fellow Republican Ed Romaine, Piccirillo said, “He’s been great, a breath of fresh air. It's almost like a weight has been lifted after coming out of 12 years of corruption,” he said referring to former District Attorney Tom Spota and his co-conspirators Chris McPartland and Jim Burke, who were convicted on federal charges. “There was a stain that was on this county; I feel like it's finally being scrubbed away.”

Patchogue-Medford Library Hosts Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Course

ByRaheemSoto

On Wednesday, March 28th, the Patchogue-Medford Library will host an essential event focused on lithium-ion battery safety. Starting at 6:00 PM, Legislator Dominick Thorne, in collaboration with The Suffolk County Fire Safety Educators and Lithium-Ion Task Force, will present a comprehensive Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Course.

The event aims to educate participants about the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries and how to mitigate risks effectively. Understanding safety protocols becomes paramount with the increasing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in everyday devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles.

"Lithium-ion batteries have become ubiquitous in modern life, powering everything from our mobile devices to electric vehicles," stated Legislator Dominick Thorne. "However, it's crucial for individuals to understand the potential dangers and how to handle these batteries safely to prevent accidents and injuries."

"In addition, we are making sure we are educating people to look at the back of the batteries and identify

if they have been properly tested by an accredited facility like United Labs," Thorne added.

The course will include:

• A basic understanding of energy storage systems

• Understanding the advantages of Lithium-Ion storage, as well as the concerns

• How to adequately protect your family while using these devices

• The proper handling and storage of these devices

• What to do in the event of an emergency

• Additional places to go for further information.

The Lithium-Ion Task Force, comprised of experts in battery technology and safety, will provide valuable insights into the science behind lithium-ion batteries and common factors contributing to safety risks. Attendees can ask questions and engage with professionals in the field.

"We're committed to promoting safety and preventing accidents related to lithium-ion batteries," emphasized Legislator Thorne. "By offering this course to the community, we hope to empower

individuals with the information they need to protect themselves and others."

As the use of lithium-ion batteries continues to expand, ensuring public awareness of safety measures is essential. The Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Course at the PatchogueMedford Library is a valuable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of battery safety practices.

Suffolk County Chief Fire Marshal and the author of the course said, "This technology isn't going anywhere, and it's best we become educated on how to use it and also dispel some of the misinformation around lithium-ion batteries."

Participants are encouraged to register for the event to secure their spot and take advantage of this educational opportunity. Register at https://pmlib.libnet.info/events.

By prioritizing education and awareness, communities can mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and promote a safer environment. The library is located at 54-60 East Main Street, Patchogue, New York 11772.

(631) 654-4700

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk Suffolk Legislator Anthony Piccirillo, right, displays a Certificate of Qualification for Public Office granted by County Clerk Vincent Puleo.

LOCAL

ByRobertChartuk

Brookhaven National Lab, A World Renowned Research Center

Shortly after the Atomic Age began with the detonation of the first nuclear bomb, the government established research facilities to delve into the innate powers of nature. A major center was situated at the former Camp Upton, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and it quickly became renowned for helping make our modern world what it is today.

The lab’s scientists routinely make groundbreaking discoveries in physics, chemistry, and biology using exotic equipment such as a Graphite Research Reactor, High Flux Beam Reactor, and a special Medical Research Reactor. The facility is also home to a Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider and the National Synchrotron Light Source II, highly advanced machines that allow researchers from all over the world to probe the deepest secrets of the atom.

Their discoveries have shaped our understanding of the universe and created new technology and tools in nuclear and high-energy physics, energy science and technology, artificial intelligence, environmental and bioscience, nanoscience, and national security. Cell phones, computers, and other amenities of the electronic age were advanced at the lab, which boasts seven Nobel Prize winners since its inception in 1947.

The 5,265-acre campus, overseen by the U.S. Department of Energy, is staffed by approximately 2,800 scientists, engineers, technicians, and support personnel and hosts about 5,300 guest investigators every year. It’s guarded by

a Department of Energy Protective Force and has a full-service fire department, water company, and its own ZIP code. There is also a National Weather Service forecast office on the site with a NEXRAD weather radar facility.

With the motto, “Passion for Discovery,” the lab pursues fundamental research in nuclear and particle physics to gain a deeper understanding of

disciplinary research on computation, sustainable energy, national security, and the Earth’s ecosystems. Among their achievements is creating the strongest magnetic field on Earth.

Brookhaven is one of only 10 national laboratories nationwide and is managed by Brookhaven Science Associates, a partnership between Stony Brook University and Battelle,

matter, energy, space, and time. Its specialists apply photon sciences and nanomaterials research to energy challenges of critical importance to the nation and perform cross-

and six core universities: Columbia, Cornell, Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton, and Yale. It has an annual budget of over $700 million and is the only multidisciplinary national laboratory in the northeastern United States.

“Brookhaven lab is one of the larger employers in Suffolk County, and they are behind many discoveries and products that are developed right here on Long Island,” said county Executive Edward Romaine, who noted that the region also benefits through the lab’s collaboration with Stony Brook University, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and various medical institutions. “They've been doing advanced science research for years, and it is really paying off.”

The lab’s massive Relativistic

USPS #019-051 USPS #1531-4391

Heavy Ion Collider is the first and one of only two operating heavy-ion colliders ever built. An international team uses it to collide ions traveling near the speed of light to study the primordial form of matter that existed in the universe shortly after the “Big Bang,” when the universe was created.

The lab is also home to the world's most advanced synchrotron light source, a complex system designed to produce x-rays 10,000 times brighter than the lab's previous light source. It supports basic and applied research in energy security, advanced materials synthesis and manufacturing, environment, and human health.

Brookhaven is also the future site of the $2.6 billion Electron-Ion Collider, a unique high-energy, high-luminosity collider that will be one of the most challenging and exciting accelerator complexes ever built. “The EIC will be a discovery machine, providing answers to long-elusive mysteries of matter related to our understanding the origin of mass, structure, and binding of atomic nuclei that make up the entire visible universe,” according to Lab Director Dr. JoAnne Hewett. A professor in Stony Brook University’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and its C.N. Yang Institute for Theoretical Physics, Hewett was associate lab director at the National Accelerator Laboratory in California.

The lab’s world-renowned research facilities are open to the private sector, academia, and other agencies for research and development work. Their staff provides expertise and helps solve a wide range of challenges in fields such as energy, environment, data science, medicine, and nuclear science technology.

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Photo Credit: Brookhaven National Lab

Photo Credit: Brookhaven National Lab

Photo Credit: Brookhaven National Lab

Mather Hospital Notches Another National Distinction

ByStefanMychajliw

Last month “Healthgrades” named Mather Hospital one of the top 250 health care facilities in the country. It also gave them a Pulmonary Care Excellence Award nine years in a row.

Now the national ranking resource gave the Port Jeffersonbased hospital more positive accolades, this time for positive patient experiences.

Mather Hospital has been recognized as a 2024 Outstanding Patient Experience Award recipient by Healthgrades, which is a resource people use to find a hospital or doctor.

The national recognition

places Mather Hospital among the top 15% in the nation for patient experience.

This is the fourth year in a row the Port Jefferson healthcare provider earned this national distinction.

“Receiving this award from Healthgrades once again is immensely gratifying as it underscores the unparalleled quality of care provided at Mather, as attested by our patients' feedback," said Mather Hospital Executive Director Kevin McGeachy.

Healthgrades uses a rigorous, data driven scoring process to grade and rate patient experiences at a hospital. The

information comes straight from surveys with patients themselves.

Survey questions focus on patients’ perceptions of their hospital care, from cleanliness and noise levels to medication explanations and staff responsiveness. The measures also include whether a patient would recommend the hospital to friends or family and their overall rating of the hospital.

“We commend Mather Hospital for going above and beyond to provide a best-inclass care experience for patients during their hospital stay,” said Healthgrades Chief Medical Officer Dr. Brad Bowman.

Bus Driver Busted: Accused of Abusing Child

ByStefanMychajliw

A bus driver was busted by police for allegedly sexually abusing a girl in Bay Shore.

Suffolk County Police accused Miguel Enrique Diaz, a Suffolk Transportation bus driver from Bay Shore Middle School and Brook Elementary School, of sexually abusing a girl, who is now 13-years-old, multiple times between May of 2022 and October of 2023.

While the alleged abuse took place months and years before, a community therapist reported the abuse to detectives in the Special Victims Section earlier this month.

Following an investigation by Special Victims Section detectives, Diaz, 47, of 20 Penataquit Ave., Bay Shore, was arrested at his home on March 13 at approximately 11:11 p.m.

Diaz was charged with one

count of Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, 1st Degree, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on this case, or who believes their child may be a victim of Diaz, to contact the Special Victims Section at 631.852.6531.

Miguel Enrique Diaz

King Kullen And Wild By Nature Raise $22,000 for Long Island Cares/Harry Chapin Food Bank

“Check Out Hunger” campaign ran in all King Kullen and Wild by Nature stores.

King Kullen and Wild by Nature recently came to the aid of Long Islanders in need by hosting their annual in-store “Check Out Hunger” campaign, raising $22,000. The money was donated to the Long Island Cares/Harry Chapin Food Bank, which has served Long Island’s food insecure population since 1980.

Tracey Cullen, King Kullen Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Initiatives and the great-

granddaughter of King Kullen founder Michael Cullen, observed that King Kullen and its customers have a long history of supporting Long Island Cares.

“Since 1997, the ‘Check Out Hunger’ campaign has played a significant role in helping Long Island Cares advance its mission to provide food where and when it’s needed,” said Cullen, who serves on the Long Island Cares board of directors. “As always, we thank our customers for contributing to the ‘Check Out Hunger’ campaign and our food drives, which also benefit Long Island Cares. At King Kullen

and Wild by Nature, fighting hunger on Long Island remains a top priority.”

King Kullen was the first supermarket chain to participate in the annual “Check Out Hunger” campaign, a unique partnership between Long Island Cares and the shopping community in which customers can make a donation with a coupon when checking out

at the supermarket register. One hundred percent of all donations go to Long Island Cares.

“King Kullen and Wild by Nature have made a meaningful difference in the fight against hunger,” observed Long Island Cares/Harry Chapin Food Bank Chief Executive Officer Paule T. Pachter. “Their customers continue to generously support our mission and we are

forever grateful for their support all these years.”

Headquartered in Hauppauge, NY, King Kullen is recognized by the Smithsonian Institution as America’s first supermarket. Also headquartered in Hauppauge, NY, Long Island Cares was founded in 1980 by singer-songwriter and activist, Harry Chapin.

Daycare Horror: Cops Cuff Owner Accused of Abusing 10-Year-Old Girl

ByStefanMychajliw

Suffolk County Police arrested a daycare employee after a 10-yearold girl accused him of abusing her while she was under his care in Brentwood in 2020.

Cops said Reynaldo Estrada, an employee and husband of the owner of Little Lamb ABC Daycare on Vanderbilt Avenue, sexually abused a 10-year-old girl at the facility in August and September 2020.

The victim, who is now 13-years-old, came forward years later following another alleged incident of abuse by Estrada that took place earlier this month.

Following an investigation by

Police Need Your Help Collaring Suspected Crooks

ByStefanMychajliw

FAMILY DOLLAR FIVE FINGER DISCOUNT

Don’t wear white after Labor Day and definitely don’t don

IS THAT AN OLD GUY OR A GREAT MASK?

The South Shore Press can’t tell if this accused shoplifter is a really old guy, or a younger thief who went all out and sported a mask and long blue vest. Either way, police say this person stole a pair of sneakers from Dick’s Sporting Goods at the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove.

neon construction yellow while engaging in bad behavior. Police say this woman stole a wide range of items from a Family Dollar in Farmingville.

THAT’S A LOT OF CLOTHES

Police say this clothing crook stole more than $700 worth of clothes from the TJ Maxx on Horseblock Road in Medford.

HAIR DONE AND DASH

You’ve heard of the old moniker “dine and dash” where folks eat at a restaurant and bolt before paying the bill. Law enforcement say this

HIT AND RUN

Someone took the phrase “to go” quite literally at a Starbucks Hauppauge, when they hit another

woman got all dolled up at the Bocu Salon then took off without paying the $168 bill. Police say this pampered princess got her hair and nails done, then hit the road.

parked vehicle according to police, then hit the road. Police need your help locating the caffeinated driver of this red Jeep.

Special Victims Section detectives, Estrada, 62, of 257 Vanderbilt Ave. in Brentwood, was arrested at his home at approximately 3:02 p.m. His home is the same address as the daycare.

He was charged with three counts of Sexual Abuse 1st Degree and three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

Police believe it is possible there could be more potential victims that have not come forward. Detectives are asking anyone with information on this case, or who believes their child may be a victim of Estrada, to contact the Special Victims Section at 631.852.6531.

CREDIT CARD CAPER

Police hope you’ll be able to recognize this accused criminal despite the mask and hoodie. Law enforcement believes this is the man responsible for stealing credit cards from a Northport gym, then attempting to use them at a Target in Commack.

All of the accused are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If you know any of these people, Suffolk County Police ask you to call them right away at 1.800.220.TIPS (8477).

All tips will remain confidential. Information can also be sent electronically by visiting 222. P3Tips.com. You can also download the Crime Stoppers mobile app in Google Play or the App Store by searching P3 Tips.

Reynaldo Estrada

King Kullen and Wild by Nature customers recently raised $22,000 for the Long Island Cares/Harry Chapin Food Bank. King Kullen Vice President Corporate Strategy and Initiatives and Long Island Cares Board Member

Tracey Cullen (center) was joined at the check presentation by (l. to r.) Long Island Cares Vice President, Development & Communications Katherine M. Fritz; King Kullen Vice President of Store Operations Frank Vassallo; Wild by Nature President Michael Infantolino; Long Island Cares Chief Executive Officer Paule T. Pachter; Long Island Cares Corporate Philanthropy Manager Kaylin Peterson; and Long Island Cares Vice President for Procurement & Supply Chain Oversight Robert LaBarbara.

DOORS OPEN AT 6 PM

DOORS OPEN AT 6 PM

GAME STARTS AT 7:30 PM

GAME STARTS AT 7:30 PM

NYS Cracking Down on Kids Being Targeted to Vape

ByStefanMychajliw

More than 50 years ago, a marketing memo from the producer of Camel cigarettes admitted the tobacco seller had to target kids in order to remain competing in the smoking market.

"Realistically, if our company is to survive and prosper, over the long term, we must get our share of the youth market,” wrote Claude Teague Jr., then the R.J. Reynolds Assistant Director of Research and Development, in a February 2nd, 1973 document titled “Some Thoughts about New Brands of Cigarettes for the Youth Market.”

This led to the creation of

the cartoon character “Joe Camel,” which was used in the marketing and promotional materials for Camel cigarettes from 1988 to 1997.

Five decades later, New York State lawmakers are now trying to crack down on vaping products they say are targeting children, the same way R.J. Reynolds did 50 years ago.

New York State Senator Monica Martinez and Assemblyman Charles Fall proposed legislation that bans the sale of e-cigarette products that are created to look like school supplies, toys, or are packaged in a way to appeal to minors.

According to the New York

State Department of Health, more than one in five (18.7%) high school age youth use e-cigarettes or vape. E-cigarette use remains the most used tobacco product among youth, with almost one in five teens stating they use vaping products.

Anti-smoking advocates believe that vaping leads many teens to take up smoking cigarettes.

“More than half of teens falsely believe e-cigarettes are harmless. However, research shows that youth who use e-cigarettes are four times more likely to start smoking conventional cigarettes than their peers who do not vape,” said American Lung Association Community Engagement Specialist Paulette Orlando.

If this passes, stores can no longer sell vaping products, tobacco products, herbal cigarettes, liquid nicotine, shisha, electronic cigarettes, rolling papers, or smoking paraphernalia that “resemble or are designed to resemble school supplies, toys, or any other product packaging tailored or advertised in any way to target the youth population.”

Under the proposed legislation, businesses that sell

vaping products could be hit with a $1,500 fine for a first offense, and a $2,500 fine for a second offense.

“Parents should be aware of the appearance of these products as well as the health implications. Those who use e-cigarettes and vaping devices are at increased risk for cough, wheezing, and an increase in asthma exacerbations. The use of these products can make asthma harder to control. With the impact that vaping has brought to our youth,

communities across the state have begun to address these concerns by reducing the number of tobacco retailers and restricting locations of tobacco retailers,” added Orlando.

The potential bill appears to have bipartisan support, Republican and Democratic lawmakers signing on as co-sponsors. They include Senators Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., George M. Borrello, Nathalia Fernandez, Dean Murray, Anthony H. Palumbo and Steven D. Rhoads.

CORRECTION

In our previous article titled "Kiely and Schiavoni Vie for Open Assembly Seat" by Raheem Soto, published on March 13, 2024, we would like to correct the following statements: We previously stated that Mr. Tommy John Schiavoni was absent during the first six months of his initial term on the town council. However, upon further review, we found that he attended all official board meetings except 1. However, he was absent from several of the first work sessions for the town board from January to April 2018, according to the official roll call of the Southampton Town Board records.

Additionally, we reported on a civil rights employment discrimination lawsuit against Mr. Schiavoni's 2020 senate campaign filed by Emily Dwyer. We incorrectly stated that the lawsuit was pending before Judge George Nolan in Suffolk County Courts, Supreme Court. In fact, Judge George Nolan dismissed the case in October 2023. We apologize for any misunderstanding caused by our previous reporting on this matter.

Republicans Cry Foul at Ballot Box Proposal

ByStefanMychajliw

If Democratic lawmakers in New York State have their way, the Empire State would become the 26th in America to place drop boxes across counties where people can drop their ballot in.

A proposed law would also allow county Board of Elections to establish temporary and “portable” polling stations where people can vote leading up to and on Election Day.

Both would be set up for early voting across New York. The proposed legislation is now before the New York State Assembly and would need to be signed by Governor Hochul to become law.

Republicans blasted the proposal, especially the establishment of “secure receptacles” where people can place their ballots.

“This bill will cause many New Yorkers to question how our elections are administered,” said former New York State Board of Elections attorney Joseph T. Burns.

As for these proposed portable polling stations, lawmakers did not offer specifics on exactly what they entail, what they would look like, and how they would collect ballots. The Rochester-based State Senate sponsor of the bill, Democrat Rachel May, did not say whether or not it could be housed in a van, car, community center, or school.

Keep in mind, voters can drop off absentee ballots before or on Election day at the Suffolk County Board of Elections or their respective polling places.

“Allowing absentee ballots to be returned to unsecured and untested drop boxes adds uncertainty and unnecessary risk to our election system. Voters who are concerned about this proposal should contact their State Assemblymember and urge them to vote against this bill,” added Burns.

The proposed ballot bill forces the New York State Board of Elections to create the ballot boxes, and establish rules and regulations of how they are secured and picked up.

There are no specifics in the bill on where the boxes will go, what the chain of custody is to secure and safeguard ballots, when they are picked up, or how they are labeled.

Legislatures in states like Iowa are going in the opposite direction of New York when it

comes to ballot drop boxes.

Hawkeye State legislators introduced a bill to ban them in Iowa. That proposal comes on the heels of the wife of an Iowa County Supervisor who was convicted of more than 50 federal counts of voter fraud. She was accused of a scheme

to stuff a ballot box when her public official husband ran for Congress.

Right now 12 states across the country ban ballot drop boxes due to fears of election fraud, tampering, and ease of ballot stuffing.

Courtesy

Governor Hochul Unveils Historic $111.1 Million Investment in New York's Port

and Rail Infrastructure

ByRaheemSoto

In a move set to redefine New York's transportation landscape, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a groundbreaking $111.1 million investment in the state's port and freight rail infrastructure. This funding, the largest ever awarded under New York's Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, marks a significant step towards modernizing crucial freight lines and port facilities, bolstering their competitiveness on the global stage, and driving job creation across all state regions.

"These historic investments underscore our unwavering commitment to New York's economic prosperity," Governor Hochul emphasized. By upgrading our transportation infrastructure, we are positioning ourselves to meet the demands of the 21st century, promote sustainability, and ignite economic growth in every corner of our state."

The funding will fuel nearly 40 projects spanning every region of New York, ranging from track and bridge rehabilitation to capacity

expansion and the procurement of cleaner rail equipment. Notable projects include a $9 million upgrade to the Albany Port District Commission's infrastructure, a $5.5 million capacity boost along the Fremont Industrial Track in New York City, a $4 million rehabilitation of grade crossings and bridges near Watkins Glen, and a $1.8 million initiative at the Port of Oswego aimed at reducing carbon emissions through the acquisition of an electric rail car mover.

Highlighting the environmental benefits of these investments, Hochul emphasized the role of freight rail in reducing pollution and traffic congestion. "Each freight rail train eliminates hundreds of trucks from our roadways, offering a sustainable solution to transportation challenges while advancing our climate goals," she remarked.

Administered by the New York State Department of Transportation, the Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program prioritizes investments that enhance freight movement, improve service

reliability, and stimulate economic development, particularly in upstate regions. The $111.1 million state funding, complemented by $20.5 million in private contributions, underscores New York's commitment to maintaining safety and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Winning projects were selected

Comptroller Urges LIRR to Bolster Severe Weather Preparedness

ByRaheemSoto

In a scathing audit, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli has castigated the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) for its lax approach to handling severe weather events, warning of potential service disruptions and costly damages if corrective actions are not taken promptly.

The audit unearthed a litany of shortcomings within the LIRR's operational framework, most notably a glaring delay in conducting a critical systemwide risk assessment of its infrastructure, which was neglected for over a decade. This oversight, DiNapoli emphasized, leaves the railway perilously exposed to the ravages of severe weather, echoing the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of future storms.

"Severe weather is no longer an anomaly but a recurring threat, and the LIRR's failure to fortify

its defenses could spell chaos for commuters," DiNapoli remarked sternly. "As the backbone of transportation for thousands, the LIRR must be primed to weather any storm and uphold its service commitments, come rain or shine."

Central to the audit's findings was the revelation that essential snow removal equipment was frequently unaccounted for, casting doubt on the railway's ability to respond effectively to winter storms. Moreover, critical snowfighting apparatus languished in disrepair, raising concerns about operational readiness during peak demand periods.

Superstorm Sandy's devastating impact in 2012 served as a sobering reminder of the railway's vulnerability to extreme weather events. Despite initiating 15 capital projects totaling over $568 million to bolster resilience post-Sandy, auditors discovered none were completed on schedule, with two

projects surpassing budgetary allocations.

Further compounding the LIRR's woes was the outdated nature of its extreme weather plans, which failed to incorporate vital recommendations gleaned from previous weather-related incidents. Auditors noted a conspicuous absence of regular updates to these plans, jeopardizing the railway's ability to adapt swiftly to evolving weather patterns.

In response to the audit's scathing indictments, DiNapoli outlined a series of recommendations to strengthen the LIRR's weather resilience protocols. These include expediting the completion of the long-overdue risk assessment, enhancing winter weather monitoring, and revamping extreme weather guidance for employees.

However, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which oversees the LIRR, offered a rebuttal to the audit's conclusions. Disputing claims of a delayed risk assessment, the MTA asserted that corrective actions were underway, underscoring proactive measures to bolster weather resilience.

Nevertheless, with the specter of severe weather looming large, the onus now falls squarely on the LIRR to heed DiNapoli's admonitions and fortify its defenses against nature's wrath. Failure to do so risks compromising service reliability and imperiling the safety and wellbeing of commuters who rely on the railway for their daily transit pm.

Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. "They pave the way for a cleaner, greener future while ensuring the safe and efficient movement of goods across our state."

State Senator Tim Kennedy echoed the sentiment, hailing the investment as a testament to New York's dedication to infrastructure improvement and transportation safety. "By enhancing our freight rail networks, we are bolstering local economies and fortifying vital supply chains," Kennedy noted.

through a rigorous competitive process, evaluating criteria such as benefit-cost analysis, adherence to regional economic plans, safety enhancements, and resilience to climate risks. "These investments epitomize Governor Hochul's vision for a resilient and sustainable transportation system," remarked New York State Department of

Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli underscored the transformative impact of the funding, particularly on Central New York regions. "These investments allow for critical upgrades to our railways, aligning with the evolving infrastructure needs of our communities," Magnarelli remarked.

Governor Hochul's historic investment signals a bold stride towards a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient transportation network, laying the foundation for New York's continued economic growth and prosperity.

Your Cheatin’ Heart Can Lead to the Slammer in NYS

ByStefanMychajliw

Right now if you’re caught cheating on your husband or wife in New York State, you could face not only an angry and spurned spouse, but 90 days in jail..

That’s because committing adultery is still a crime in the Empire State. On the books since 1907, the act of adultery could lead to a misdemeanor that could land you three months behind bars along with a $500 fine.

Now lawmakers are working to scrap the more than century old adultery law in New York.

Long Island based Democratic State Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine introduced a bill to “repeal and decriminalize” the act of

adultery in New York.

“This outdated statute criminalizes sexual behavior between consenting adults. It is long past time for us to remove it from the penal code. If a law is not enforced, there is no reason it should be maintained,” said Lavine.

According to Lavine’s office, only a handful of philanderous spouses, 13 in all since 1972, have been charged criminally for adultery. His proposed bill passed the Assembly by a 137-10 vote. It has since been sent to the Senate for approval. Once that happens, Governor Kathy Hochul would have to sign the bill for it to become law.

Photo Creator: Marc A. Hermann | Credit: Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Copyright: Marc A. Hermann / MTA

Governor Kathy Hochul

STATE

ByRobertChartuk

Low-Interest Loans Available in Wake of January Storm

Those impacted by the heavy rain and high winds from the January 9-10 storm can now apply for low-interest loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration, local legislators have announced. To assist residents in obtaining the funds, in-person loan Outreach Centers will be open until March 29 at the Mastic Recreation Center and Babylon Town Hall.

According to Senator Dean Murray, loan applications are available online and can be submitted through My SBA Loan Portal at www.lending.sba. gov. Applicants can also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center

at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba. gov. The loans are available for residents and businesses in both Suffolk and Nassau counties.

“Back in January, a statewide multi-hazard weather event crossed much of our state, resulting in significant damage to businesses and homes,” Murray said. “The event dropped up to 3.5 inches of rainfall on Long Island and coincided with high tides causing severe flooding.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul activated the Emergency Operations Center in Albany to monitor the storm and coordinate the state’s response. Both Suffolk and Nassau counties issued States of Emergency

during the severe weather event, noted county Executive Edward Romaine. Following the storm, personnel from the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the Small Business Administration and Suffolk County conducted a thorough assessment of local damages.

“It was quite a storm,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano. “Mastic Beach and other coastal communities had flooding as bad as when Hurricane Sandy hit. Federal assistance through the SBA is much appreciated.”

“New Yorkers and their businesses should not have to carry the burden of storm recovery alone, and these loans will go a long way in helping those impacted build back better and stronger,” Gov. Hochul said. “Long Islanders impacted by January’s winds should be sure to apply and take advantage of the additional financial support.”

Applicants, including businesses, homeowners, renters, and private, nonprofit organizations in declared disaster areas can apply for the following:

Business Physical Disaster

Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business,

including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery, and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster.

Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property,

including automobiles.

The Disaster Loan Outreach Centers at 15 Herkimer Street in Mastic will be open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Babylon location has the same hours. Both will be open until March 29.

Completed applications can also be mailed to the U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is May 10, 2024. The deadline to return economic injury applications is December 11, 2024, the officials said.

Photo Credit: Senator Dean Murray

Photo Credit: Senator Dean Murray January flooding

ByRobertChartuk

John Jay Study Details Cashless Bail Risks

A recent study by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice shows a whopping 66% of individuals with a prior arrest who were detained and released in New York’s suburban and upstate communities as a result of changes in the state’s bail laws went on to be re-arrested within two years.

“In other words, career criminals act like career criminals when there are few consequences,” said Will Barclay, the leader of the Assembly Republicans, at a rally calling for a repeal of the state’s cashless bail system. The conference urged Gov. Kathy Hochul to attach a provision to change the criminal justice system to upcoming budget legislation in the same way her Democrat successor, Andrew Cuomo, did to approve cashless bail.

“If the data and outcry from law enforcement professionals are not enough to convince you this problem is spiraling out of control, consider Gov. Hochul’s announcement to deploy 750 National Guard troops to quell subway-related crime in New York City,” continued Barclay, an upstate lawmaker. “No matter how you slice it, there is no way to look at what is happening in New York and think we are on the right track. The numbers speak for themselves; the incidents of dangerous individuals being turned loose on communities make it clear: these policies don’t work.”

As crime spiraled out of control in New York, especially in the city’s subways, Gov. Hochul acknowledged the problem on the “The View,” saying she inherited cashless bail “from my predecessor and the legislature before. They took the bail laws and watered them down to make it impossible for judges to look at the whole picture of the crime and the person.”

According to the John Jay findings, “The reduced use of bail for legally eligible cases tended to

increase recidivism among people charged with violent felonies and people with a recent arrest. The starkest and most consistent recidivism increases across both research designs were among people with a recent prior violent felony arrest and among people currently charged with violent felony offenses who had a recent criminal history.”

“Simply put, state officials who block common-sense changes to cashless bail have blood on their hands,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano (R, C-Medford). “At the very least, judges should be given discretion in setting bail so that violent felons with extensive rap sheets aren’t put back on the street hours after committing their latest crime.”

Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney has also been an outspoken advocate of repealing cashless bail, as well as the discovery rules he said places an undue burden on prosecutors and law enforcement. According to Tierney, under the Democrats’ law, a suspect out with no bail can obtain crime scene and witness information gathered by investigators, which can put victims at risk.

“We are going to do everything

we can to protect the public. We've added police officers, we've added detectives,” said Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine. “But what's most important from my point of view is that the laws of the State of New York must change. Cashless bail for the most blatant misdemeanors and felonies must be repealed, and we must allow for judicial discretion.”

Tierney and Romaine, along with a bipartisan group of Suffolk’s elected officials, joined together to express outrage over four suspects arrested for illegally disposing of body parts and destroying evidence could not be held on bail under the current law. The suspects in the grisly “Babylon Body Parts” case were released only with ankle monitors as investigators build a case in the murder of Donna R. Conneely, 59, with a last known address in Yonkers, and a male victim, also in his 50s, who has not been named.

The results of the John Jay study also indicated that people in the bail reform group were more quickly re-arrested for a firearm charge than people in the comparison group. Additionally, for people charged with nonviolent felonies, eliminating bail was associated with

increases in any re-arrest, felony rearrest, and Violent Felony Offense re-arrest, in addition to firearm rearrest. “Likewise, survival analyses

showed that release was associated with an increased re-arrest risk across all four outcomes,” the report stated.

Grants Available for Home Improvements Through EmPower+

ByRobertChartuk

Both homeowners and renters can get grants for energy upgrades and other improvements through the state’s Empower+ Program. The goal is to conserve energy and help make living in New York more affordable.

Small improvements can make a big difference on energy bills and increase comfort and property value. The process starts with a Home Energy Assessment, where experts can detail needed upgrades, including insulation, weather stripping, and health and safety items.

Living units up to four-family buildings and mobile homes are also eligible for energy-efficient lighting and appliances, doors,

windows, CO/smoke detectors, and more.

The program is available to low and moderate-income residents and is made possible through NYSERDA, the state’s Energy Research and Development Agency.

Publicizing the Empower+ program at a recent meeting of the Pattersquash Creek Civic Association was August Ruckdeschel who noted how easy it is to get started. Residents can call 1-877-NYSMART or visit www.nyserda.ny.gov/empowerapply to fill out an application.

“This is a great program from the state to help people in our area save money and be more comfortable in their homes,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, an Empower+ advocate. “We can cut down on energy usage and help people increase the value of their property.”

Let the Budget Battle Begin: Legislature Releases Spending Plan

ByStefanMychajliw

The fiscal gauntlets have been thrown down. The proposals are in. Now Democratic New York State lawmakers have a tight, tight window in order to pass an on-time budget by April 1st.

First, New York Governor Kathy Hochul released her proposed $233 billion spending plan in her 2025 Executive Budget.

Next, both the New York State Senate and Assembly floated their respective spending plan for next year. There would be an additional $7 billion in new taxes for New York taxpayers, $2.4 billion for illegal immigrants, and $175 million in health insurance for them.

“The Senate one-house budget would put New York State in even more dire financial straits than it is currently in,” said New York State Senator Dan Stec.

The big question is: can both sides wrinkle out any fiscal differences in order to approve a budget by April 1st, which is required by the The New York State Constitution.

Since Democrats hold a supermajority of both the Senate and the Assembly, and the Governor is a Democrat, Republicans are on the outside looking in and for the most part have zero input on budget proposals and final negotiations.

The two major financial issues to be addressed: how much in taxes they’re going to raise and

how much funding to give to school districts across the state.

Governor Hochul proposed funding schools to the tune of $35.3 billion, an increase over last year’s budget. Communities across New York cried foul, claiming they were expecting more. The Legislature’s proposed spending plan hikes education aid by another $1.2 billion.

“Tax the rich” is the rallying cry for the Legislature. They proposed a one-half-percent tax increase for New Yorker’s earning more than $5 million as well as an overall increase in the corporate tax.

“Overall, this is a bad budget for New Yorkers. In spite of the fact that millions of New Yorkers are currently tightening

their belts, and struggling to make ends meet, this Legislature continues year after year to have a spending spree using taxpayer money,” said New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt.

Throwing a monkey wrench into future negotiations is one of pure chance: this year the deadline to come to a budget agreement, March 31st, happens to land on Easter Sunday.

This means lawmakers have the potential choice of leaving Albany on Friday March 29th without a budget deal in order to head home to be with their families on Easter. This appears far more likely than Democratic lawmakers crammed in offices, hammering out a budget deal

over that weekend, and skipping the Easter holiday at home with their families.

Either way, some lawmakers pointed to higher taxes and higher spending in New York as the main reason why the Empire State experienced the highest level of people leaving here for greener pastures. According to the Census Bureau, more than 884,000 New Yorkers hit the road for good and left for other states in 2020.

"Economists were invited to the revenue meeting and testified people are leaving because of the high taxes--how is raising billions of dollars of taxes going to help NY?" questioned New York State Senator Tom O’Mara.

Photo Credit: @JohnJayCollege| FACEBOOK

NATION

ByStefanMychajliw

Trump Trashes New York in Fiery Ohio Speech

The South Shore Press hit the road and traveled to Dayton, Ohio, where former President Trump delivered a speech in support of Republican U.S. Senate candidate Bernie Moreno.

It did not take long for the former Commander in Chief to blast the Big Apple and trash living conditions across New York State.

The first salvo slamming the Empire State came from President Trump concerning his numerous civil lawsuits and criminal charges he faces here in New York State.

First, the former President’s lawyers now say he cannot get a bond to secure the $454 million civil penalty he now owes due to a fraud case brought by New York State Attorney General Letitia James. New York’s top prosecutor accused President Trump and his businesses of inflating their worth to obtain loans.

A judge in mid-February agreed, ordering President Trump and his businesses to fork over $454 million.

At the Ohio rally the former Commander in Chief took aim at the ruling, and said businesses will bolt both the Big Apple and New York to avoid the cross hairs of a hyper partisan prosecutor

who will target them for political beliefs.

“A lot of people want to leave because of the lawfare that’s going on. A lot of companies are leaving because they don’t want to get caught up in the crap that I got caught up into, where they come after you for no reason whatsoever,” said President Trump.

Political prosecutors aren’t the only folks President Trump took aim at. He also said another reason why people are fleeing the Empire State is because of crime. According to the MTA, crime on New York City subways is up 13% since the start of the year. New York Governor Kathy Hochul just deployed the National Guard there to keep the peace and limit criminal behavior.

“They let violent criminals roam the streets, roam the subways. But they go after Trump all the time. People get tired of it. Companies don’t want to be subject to that,” added President Trump at the Dayton International Airport.

While President Trump spoke for approximately one hour, 29 minutes, and 23 seconds, national media also took one word that the President said, “bloodbath,” and falsely framed it as though the former Commander in Chief claimed America would face a

“bloodbath if he were not elected.”

“He’s predicting a bloodbath. What does that mean? He’s going to exact a bloodbath? There’s something wrong here,” said former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

“He’s talking about a bloodbath for America. These idiots on Twitter, these idiots on cable news, these idiots on Sunday talk shows, claim ‘he was talking about the auto industry.’ It’s just bull$hit,” said MSNBC host Joe Scarborough.

President Trump in fact was speaking about how President

Biden’s forced EV mandates would destroy jobs and crush the economy, leading to a “bloodbath” within the auto industry.

Here is the full transcript of President Trump’s “bloodbath” comments:

“Let me tell you something to China. If you're listening President Xi and you and I are friends but he understands the way I deal. Those big monster car manufacturing plants that you're building in Mexico right now. And you think you're going to get that, you're going to not hire Americans and you're going to sell the cars to us no. We're going to

put a 100% tariff on every single car that comes across the line, and you're not going to be able to sell those guys if I get elected. Now, if I don't get elected, it's going to be a bloodbath for the whole. That's going to be the least of it. It's going to be a bloodbath for the country. That will be the least of it, but they're not going to sell those cars. They're building massive factories,” said Trump.

President Biden actually did use the exact word “bloodbath” in warning political supporters what would happen if he lost the Democratic Presidential nomination to Senator Bernie Sanders in 2020.

This was confirmed by the headline in “The Guardian” newspaper printed on just over four years ago on March 7th, 2020: “Biden warns against primary bloodbath as Sanders sharpens attacks ahead of key contests.”

Following the Ohio rally, President Trump took to TRUTH Social to defend his remarks and blast the media for taking them out of context.

"The Fake News made a big deal out of the word 'Bloodbath,' knowing that it was about our shrinking auto manufacturing business, and the fact that they use the same name all the time,” wrote President Trump.

Former US President Donald Trump

South Shore Press Exclusive: A Conversation with Vivek Ramaswamy

Prior to joining the South Shore Press, our own Stefan Mychajliw served as the Spokesman and Deputy Communications Director for the Presidential campaign of business owner and political outsider Vivek Ramaswamy.

This past week Mychajliw caught up with Ramaswamy at his Columbus, Ohio home and spoke to him about an issue that was critically important to his presidential campaign: reviving America’s lost identity while also reducing the $34 trillion national debt, which is expected to climb to $54 trillion in ten years.

The conversation has been edited for length.

South Shore Press: “Vivek, how important is it, for politicians on both sides of the aisle, to get the hard work done, to reduce the $34 trillion national debt?”

Former Republican Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy: “It’s vital. If the interest payments on the national debt are the largest line item in our federal budget, we’re done. We’re toast. We’re in quicksand. Because at that point, the largest line item in the budget is for

paying interest payments. It’s a downward spiral from there. We’re not working with a lot of time here.”

SSP: “It’s alarming that very soon America will pay more in interest on the national debt than on national security.”

Ramaswamy: “The more we buy down the national debt, the more you see the shrinkage of the interest rates. Now is our wake-up call. Both parties have been guilty of this. Republicans can and should lead the way. We’re spending money on things that do not advance our own interests.”

SSP: “Vivek you mentioned on the campaign trail how the solution for politicians was to simply cut, but they never considered America growing its way out of the problem by creating economic prosperity.”

Ramaswamy: “We need cuts regardless of the national debt problem. We do need to fire 75% of the bureaucrats in Washington DC just to revive the essence of a three branch, Constitutional Republic. The cuts we need to make to government excess should be made independent

of the national debt, which is a symptom of a deeper problem.

When it comes to solving the national debt we need to be ambitious in growing our way out of solving some of those problems. Drill, frack, burn coal. Embrace nuclear energy. Get American resources out of the ground. Sell it. Use the resources to pay down the national debt.”

SSP: “Isn’t there also a national debt that can’t be calculated in dollars and cents, a loss of purpose and meaning that you also talked about extensively on the campaign trail?”

Ramaswamy: “There is a debt of identity that we suffer in this country. We lost a sense of who we are. The way I look at it, the $34 trillion national and

growing national debt problem, it’s a deeper loss of who we are as Americans. If we live in a nation that secures the border, embraces economic growth, that embraces merit, meritocracy, and the rule of law, and hard work instead of disincentivizing it, automatically our national debt problem gets smaller.”

L to R: Stefan Mychajliw with former Republican Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy

ByRaheemSoto

Poll Shock: Democrats Balk at Certifying Trump Win

In a recent Rasmussen Reports poll, commissioned by the National Pulse, troubling revelations have emerged regarding the stance of Democrat voters towards the 2024 election results, should former President Donald Trump emerge victorious. The findings, which indicate a significant proportion of Democrats opposing the certification of Trump's potential win, have sparked concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process.

The poll unveils a stark reality: 57% of Democratic voters would refuse to support Congress certifying the 2024 election results if Trump were to prevail. This notable dissent among Democrats raises questions about their adherence to democratic principles.

Further analysis reveals that nearly two-thirds of self-identified

"liberals" also expressed opposition to certifying Trump's victory. This sentiment, prevalent among a key demographic of the Democrat base, underscores deep-rooted divisions within the party.

However, it's essential to note that Democrats' sentiments do not reflect the broader sentiment of all voters. Only 35% of all respondents would support opposing the certification of Trump's victory, with a significant majority, 55%, opposing lawmakers' refusal to certify.

The poll, conducted among 912 likely voters from March 5-7, with a margin of error of 3 points, highlights the significance of these findings within the current political landscape.

In addition to the poll results, attention is drawn to the legal proceedings against Trump stemming from the January

include the necessary findings for such a sentence, according to a Department of Justice spokesperson.

The implications of these findings are profound. They reveal a fracture within the Democrat party and raise concerns about the potential politicization of the electoral process. Moreover, they underscore the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring a fair and impartial electoral system free from partisan interference.

ByRaheemSoto

Special Counsel Robert K. Hur's report, released alongside the transcripts, delivered a damning assessment of President Biden's cognitive abilities. While concluding that criminal charges were not warranted for Biden's mishandling of classified documents, the report painted a stark picture of an 81-year-old president whose age has become a central issue in his reelection campaign. According to the report, Biden's memory was described as "significantly limited," with "limited precision and recall."

"One reason prosecutors concluded they would have trouble pursuing a case was that a jury might see Biden as an appealing — if forgetful — senior citizen," the report stated. "At trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, wellmeaning, elderly man with a poor memory."

The report's release came amid mounting concerns about Biden's cognitive decline, highlighted by a series of high-profile gaffes. Just

a day prior to the report's release, Biden twice misstated which German leader he had met with at an event in 2021, mistakenly saying he spoke with Helmut Kohl, who passed away in 2017, instead of Angela Merkel. This error underscored growing doubts about Biden's ability to recall recent events accurately.

Moreover, Biden's recent blunders have extended beyond diplomatic faux pas. During a public event in 2022, he mistakenly called out for a recently deceased congresswoman, seemingly forgetting her passing. Another incident saw Biden grappling to recall the name of the prime minister of Australia, referring to him as "that fellow Down Under."

"These lapses in memory and cognitive function have intensified scrutiny of Biden's fitness for office," said political analyst John Smith. "His opponents are seizing on them as evidence of his decline, while his supporters dismiss such concerns as ageism and political opportunism."

The President's cognitive state has become a central focus in the lead-up to the 2024 election, with

6 Capitol riots. A grand jury indictment in August 2023 charged Trump with four counts, including "Conspiracy to Defraud the United States" and "Obstruction of an Official Proceeding." The severity of these allegations underscores the potential consequences Trump faces.

Despite facing up to 55 years in prison for the alleged offenses, Trump does not face the death penalty, as the indictment did not

The revelations from the Rasmussen Reports poll serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for unity and adherence to democratic norms in the face of political polarization. As the 2024 election approaches, all parties must prioritize the integrity of the electoral process above partisan interests.

Forgetful or Fit? Special Counsel Report Raises Questions About Biden's Cognitive State

both sides fiercely contesting the narrative. Republicans have been quick to capitalize on Biden's lapses, portraying him as unfit to lead and questioning his ability to handle the demands of the presidency.

"The American people deserve a leader who is mentally sharp and capable of making sound decisions," said GOP spokesperson Sarah Johnson. "It's clear that President Biden is struggling, and we cannot afford to have someone in the

White House who is not up to the task."

However, Democrats have pushed back against these criticisms, accusing Republicans of exploiting Biden's age for political gain.

"President Biden has decades of experience in public service and has demonstrated his leadership abilities time and time again," said Democratic strategist Emily Rodriguez. "These attacks on his

cognitive health are nothing more than desperate attempts to distract from the real issues facing our country."

As the 2024 election looms closer, the issue of Biden's cognitive abilities is expected to remain a focal point of debate. With both sides fiercely contesting the narrative, the American public grapples with fundamental questions about leadership, age, and mental acuity in the land's highest office.

Worst to First. Chump to Champ. LaGuardia Airport Earns National Honors

ByStefanMychajliw

The South Shore Press did a deep dive on what a dump LaGuardia Airport used to be. It did not take long for us to use the Google Machine to find a story from USA Today.

No punches were pulled in the July 24th, 2013 story titled “World's worst airports: Dumps, disgraces and big bugs.”

In that story, Saint Louis traveler John Barth dubiously described LGA as "a dump and an utter disgrace. It's filthy, crowded and there's no room for what must be a massive business clientele."

Back then Jason Rabinowitz was editor of NYCAviation.com. He shared his sentiments that LaGuardia literally made people unhappy just by being there.

"Before you even get to LGA, you are in a bad mood because it's not connected to any meaningful public transportation, just a very slow city bus. Once inside, check-

in areas are tiny, security lines overflowing, and your cellphone will most likely stop working because it has no signal. And Wi-Fi isn't free," Rabinowitz was quoted telling USA Today in July 2013.

One year later it was so bad that then Vice President Joseph Biden described going to LaGuardia Airport this way: “I must be in some third-world country,” said Biden during a speech in Philadelphia in February 2014.

How things have changed in one decade.

Laughingstock LaGuardia is now ranked as the best midsized airport in North America according to a survey just released by “Airport Service Quality.”

ASQ ranked LaGuardia and the Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport as the best in America for airports serving 25 to 40 million passengers per year.

The Port Authority recently

announced that a record high 32 million passengers used LGA in 2023.

How did LaGuardia go from “worst to first?”

For starters, a massive makeover began at LGA in 2016. The six year makeover, an $8 billion investment, spearheaded by then New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, included a massive reconstruction and renovation of gates, terminals, and concourses. The old C and D terminals were combined into one.

Cuomo sent media outlets, including the South Shore Press, a statement praising the naming of LGA as one of the best airports in North America.

“The recognition is a testament to the men and women in my administration who worked night and day to transform this airport from one of the worst in the nation to the very best. They made the impossible possible and this honor is well deserved,” stated Cuomo.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

President Joseph R. Biden, Right Former Special Counsel Robert Hur

Former President Donald J. Trump

Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig

ByRaheemSoto

ByteDance Battle: House Bill Puts TikTok Future in Limbo

The House of Representatives has recently passed legislation sparking debate about TikTok's future in the United States.

Contrary to widespread speculation, the bill doesn't entail an outright ban on the popular social media platform. Instead, it addresses concerns surrounding TikTok's ownership structure and potential national security risks.

The bill, approved by a bipartisan vote of 35265, challenges TikTok's current setup. It mandates that the platform sever ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, within approximately five months. Failure to comply would result in app stores in the U.S. being barred from hosting TikTok.

At the core of the issue are fears that TikTok's connections to ByteDance could compromise the privacy and security of American users. Advocates of the bill argue that allowing a platform with such a significant American user base to be under the sway of a company influenced by the Chinese Communist Party poses substantial risks. They contend that the Chinese government could exploit these links to access and misuse sensitive user data, thereby posing a threat to

national security.

In response to these concerns, the bill aims to compel TikTok to divest from ByteDance and integrate into an Americanowned entity. Proponents believe this move would help mitigate the potential for foreign influence over the platform and safeguard the privacy of American users.

Representative Andrew Garbarino (R, NY-2), who supported the bill, stressed the importance of upholding national security and privacy in the digital era. He underscored the necessity of addressing immediate risks posed by TikTok while establishing a process to shield Americans' privacy from foreign-controlled applications in the future.

"To have such a globally popular social media platform like TikTok controlled by foreign adversaries poses an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security and allows our adversaries to surveil and influence the American public, both through the data we produce and the information we share and consume," Garbarino remarked.

Meanwhile, Representative Anthony D'Esposito (R, NY-4) sought to dispel misunderstandings surrounding the bill. He reassured constituents that the legislation does not

entail an outright TikTok ban. Instead, he emphasized protecting user privacy while ensuring continued access to social media platforms.

"As the bill moves forward, we must prioritize protecting Americans' privacy and national security while balancing the benefits of social media platforms," D'Esposito added.

In response to the

developments, former President Donald Trump weighed in, expressing concerns about TikTok's national security implications. He acknowledged the platform's popularity among users while cautioning about potential risks.

"There's, you know, a lot of good, and there's a lot of bad with TikTok," Trump said. He noted that while TikTok may have its drawbacks, similar concerns

Tate Brothers Face New Legal Turmoil in Romania

ByRaheemSoto

Andrew Tate, an online influencer with a substantial social media following, and his brother Tristan Tate are entangled in more legal woes as they face detention in Romania.

The predicament stems from a U.K. arrest warrant issued in connection to allegations of sexual aggression dating back to 2012-2015. This revelation was made by spokesperson Mateea Petrescu, who disclosed that the Bucharest Court of Appeal is poised to render a critical decision regarding the execution of warrants issued by the U.K.'s Westminster Magistrates Court.

In addition to the U.K. case, Andrew and Tristan Tate face a separate set of charges in Romania, including rape, human trafficking, and forming a criminal gang to exploit women. These charges arose following their arrest near Bucharest in December 2022, along with two Romanian women. Despite consistent denials, Romanian prosecutors formally indicted all four individuals in June of the following year.

exist with other social media platforms like Facebook.

As the bill advances to the Senate for deliberation, its fate hangs in the balance. While national security and privacy concerns are driving forces behind the debate, the outcome will determine TikTok's trajectory in the U.S. and shape broader discussions concerning digital privacy and foreign influence in the digital domain.

including luxury cars, designer watches, and cash totaling an estimated 3.6 million euros ($3.9 million), were confiscated after their arrest.

The Tate brothers' legal saga has captured significant attention, given their status as influential social media figures. As the legal proceedings unfold, questions linger over the veracity of the allegations and the potential ramifications for their online presence. The case highlights the complexities of navigating legal systems across international borders and underscores the gravity of allegations involving sexual misconduct.

Following their arrest, Andrew and Tristan Tate endured three months in police detention before being transitioned to

The Tate brothers, both influential figures on social media, have vehemently contested the accusations, alleging that Romanian prosecutors lack sufficient evidence and suggesting a political conspiracy aimed at silencing them. Their contentious history on social media, marked by misogynistic views and hate speech, has resulted in bans from several prominent platforms.

house arrest. Subsequently, their movements were confined to Bucharest Municipality and nearby Ilfov County. Despite these legal constraints, Andrew Tate won in January when he successfully appealed against Romanian authorities' seizure of his assets. These assets,

With the Bucharest Court of Appeal poised to make a pivotal decision regarding the execution of U.K. arrest warrants, the fate of Andrew and Tristan Tate hangs in the balance. As the brothers await further developments, observers remain vigilant, awaiting clarity on the implications of the ongoing legal battle and its potential reverberations within social media influence.

Photo Credit: DANIEL MIHAILESCU AFP via Getty Images

Andrew Tate

Photo created by The South Shore Press

SUFFOLK CLOSEUP

BY KARL GROSSMAN

My first beat as a reporter at the daily Long Island Press was covering cops-and-courts in Suffolk County. Back then, the bail issue was a vexing one in Suffolk—as it is today here and elsewhere in New York State, notably in the wake of what is known as “reform” of the bail system in the state

It was obvious back in the middle 1960s that if a person had the money, or property to put up as security, he or she was released on bail. If not, the person was sent to jail—to wait, sometimes for months, to be tried. More than a few defendants who ended up being judged innocent thus served jail time anyway.

There has been great controversy in recent weeks over the release in Suffolk—without bail—of four suspects arrested in connection with human body parts found strewn in parks on Long Island including in Babylon. The charges were: concealment of a human corpse, tampering with physical evidence and hindering prosecution, all felonies.

Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney issued a press release on March 6th declaring: “It is our understanding that the Suffolk

County Police Department is still investigating these murders. Unfortunately, due to ‘Bail Reform’ passed by the New York State Legislature in 2019, charges relating to the mutilation and disposal of murdered corpses is no longer bail-eligible, meaning my prosecutors cannot ask for bail. This is yet another absurd result thanks to ‘Bail Reform’ and a system where the Legislature in Albany substitutes their judgment for the judgment of our judges and the litigants in Court.”

The DA, a Republican, went on: “We will work with the SCPD to resolve this investigation as soon as possible and implore our [State] Legislature to make common sense fixes to this law.”

His statement was followed by one from Kevin McCaffrey of Lindenhurst, presiding officer of the Suffolk County Legislature, also a Republican, scoring “the focus of progressive liberal controlled Albany.”

The Democratic majorities in the State Legislature “through the adoption of misguided and irresponsible legislation” moved “to take the handcuffs off of criminals and put them on law enforcement by making

VETERANS WAY

BY REV. FREDERICK MILLER. PH.D.

We live in a fast-food world where unhealthy choices are convenient, inexpensive, and tempting. And we live in a digital world filled with modern conveniences that often rob us of the physical exercise needed to maintain healthy lifestyles.

The United States has the 12th highest obesity rate in the world at 36.2%. Diet is primarily to blame, with Americans receiving mixed messages about what they should be eating and how much of it. Faced with mouth-watering advertisements served alongside campaigns promoting daily activity and proper nutrition, many Americans opt for fast, cheap, and filling options such as processed packaged foods, fast food, and larger portions. This often leads to a diet rich in fat, calories, sodium, chemicals, and low in vitamins and nutrients.

White Castle opened the second fast-food outlet in

Wichita, Kansas in 1921. They sold hamburgers and were the first to standardize production of food. They created the first fast food supply chain that supplied ingredients to all outlets. Its founder, cook Walt A. Anderson, is credited with invention of the hamburger bun as we know it today. His partner was Edgar Waldo "Billy" A. Ingram who in time bought out Anderson. White Castle changed the public's perception towards the ground beef and made hamburgers popular. Today they have more than 420 outlets. The McDonald brothers opened their restaurant in 1948, and several fast-food chains that exist today opened soon after. Burger King and Taco Bell got their start in the 1950s, and Wendy’s opened in 1969.

The other part of this problem is the lack of physical exercise.

We no longer see children playing stick ball or any ball

The "Bail Reform" Situation

it harder, if not impossible in certain instances, for them to do their job,” he said. “The state’s adoption of irresponsible socalled ‘Bail Reform’ legislation has created a revolving door justice system where numerous violent criminals are released almost immediately after arrest, free to walk our streets.”

McCaffrey, also a Teamsters Union leader, continued that the “release of four people charged with the mutilation and disposal of murdered corpses which was mandated by this ‘reform’ legislation may be the most egregious example of how these ‘reforms’ have tied the hands of our law enforcement and our district attorney, putting the public’s safety at risks. The law must be changed now. We are once again calling upon Albany to repeal these laws to protect the welfare of our citizens.”

Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said in a TV interview: “Maybe the DA should have done a more thorough investigation and brought murder charges—or conspiracy to commit murder—even assault charges because all of them are baileligible.” Hochul, a lawyer, said,

“Maybe they brought [the case] a little early.” She said: “I encourage the DA’s office to go back and build your case.”

Tierney responded by saying Hochul is “either absolutely clueless or being deceitful about how the criminal justice system works.” He said: “Prosecutors have a duty to bring only charges that are supported by evidence. Anything else would be unethical. When law enforcement had enough evidence to arrest those defendants for serious felonies, they did the right thing and made those arrests.”

And in the State Legislature, measures are now being introduced to add “concealing a human corpse” to bail-eligible crimes. Senator Monica Martinez and Assemblyman Steve Stern of Huntington, both Democrats, are moving on a bill. Senator Anthony Palumbo of New Suffolk is among a group of Republicans sponsoring another bill. Palumbo, a former Suffolk assistant DA, says: “I don’t think anyone would argue that a world where people charged with the crime of body dismemberment can walk back out onto the streets is a good place, yet here in New York that

is the world in which we are living thanks to Democrat’s failed criminal justice policies.”

As for bail for the other felonies and the host of misdemeanors eliminated in the 2019 changes, Hochul is saying it is “very clear that changes need to be made” and “judges should have more authority to set bail and detain dangerous defendants.”

The New York Civil Liberties Union in a web posting titled “The Facts on Bail Reform” says: “In 2019, New York lawmakers passed legislation that eliminated the use of cash bail for most misdemeanors and some nonviolent felony charges in an overdue recognition that a person’s wealth should not determine liberty.” However, “in 2020 prosecutors and police departments led a misinformation campaign that resulted in roll backs of the 2019 reforms. Now opponents of the bail law are determined to spread more misinformation and fear, threatening due process and push New York even further backward.”

Has the State Legislature gone too far in altering bail laws? My view: Yes.

Diet and Exercise

games, or other games in the streets. With the invention of the cell phone and other electronic devices it appears that the exercise is now limited to the thumbs, even with the adults.

This increase of obesity in America causes an increase in two major problems. First

and very important, is there is presently a dangerous problem in supplying our military with the qualified troops that are needed to protect our country.

Secondly are the medical problems that obesity causes. Many adults and children with obesity suffer from diabetes and

other medical issues including heart problem. Unfortunately this problem is common in our veterans coming home, discharged from active duty. Many of them suffer problems in returning to civilian life, and will grab a bit of food wherever they can.

BY TOM BARTON

This year's NFL Free Agency window opened up on Monday, and quickly the New York Giants fan base had a collective groan. The face of their franchise, and easily their most electric offensive weapon was not only leaving, but also going to the hated rival Philadelphia Eagles. While the Giants front office may have let go of Barkley, they still won the day and enthusiasm should be high for Big Blue.

Mere hours later the New York Giants landed defensive end Brian Burns from the Carolina Panthers. Burns was traded for a second round pick and a fifth round pick, a massive discount from just a year ago. Last season at this time Burns was being asked about in NFL circles and it was reported that the Panthers

inept front office declined two first rounders. Now, just one year later he falls into the laps of the G-Men. Not only is Burns now part of the fold, but he can take the place of Barkley as the most talented player on the team, and he will be for some time. Not only did Burns land in New York but he quickly signed a five-year extension, worth $150 million dollars with $87.5 million guaranteed.

Burns is one of the elite young pass rushers in the league. He is just 25-yearsold and was a standout at Florida State University. Since entering the league he has been the focal point of offensive coordinators, yet they have barely slowed him down. Burns has 46 sacks since entering the league in 2019 topping out in 2022 with

12 1/2. He sits at sixth all time of the Panthers sack list and is consistently rated inside the top 5 rushers at his position.

New York wasn't done there as they soon added some offensive line help in Jermaine Eluemunor. Signing him to a two-year, $14 million dollar deal. Eluemunor is also on the right side of 30-years-old. The 6-4 330 pounder started 12 games at right tackle allowing just 21 pressures on 474 passblock attempts. He is the prototype right tackle for a Giants team that needed help up front badly. As for who will run the ball in Saquon's absence? Well, that didn't take long to solve either when Joe Schoen signed Devin Singletary to a three-year deal worth $16.5 million dollars. Another bargain when you consider the Eagles gave

Discount Shopping

Barkley $37.75 for the same three seasons. The undersized Singletary might not carry the load like Barkley did but at just 26-years-old he is coming off his best season rushing for a career-high 898 yards for the Texans, and maybe more

importantly to the G-Men, playing in all 17 games.

If you still believe in the old saying that the game is won in the trenches, then the Giants certainly won the early stages of free agency, despite Barkley wearing green.

Photo Credit: All-Pro Reels | Wikipedia

After working most of your life and finally paying off your mortgage, the last thing you want is to see the assets you’ve accumulated through years of diligence fall into the government’s hands because you required long-term care either at home or in a nursing home. There is a way—a perfectly legal and legitimate way—to shield those assets and protect your children’s inheritance. But there’s really no time to lose. One of the ways in which we protect assets is by creating a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT).

With a MAPT, you can protect your assets from the cost of longterm care. But there is a hitch: The trust must be created sixty (60) months before nursing home care is necessary. Currently, in New York, there is no lookback for transfers made before you apply for home care or Community Medicaid. However, this may change. In

2020, regulations were changed to apply a thirty (30) month lookback for Community Medicaid for any transfers made after October 1, 2020. However, the State has not imposed that lookback and have delayed applying it until at least 2025. At the writing of this article, we are unsure if this will ever be implemented. To be safe, planning early is imperative and the key to asset protection and preservation.

Under the 2024 Medicaid resource allowance, the application can have $30,182.00. If you have assets that exceed that amount, there could be a spenddown. If you do nothing, you could lose your home and investment assets. If you establish a MAPT – and stay out of a nursing home for sixty (60) months – those assets are out of the government’s reach and will be there for your benefit and ultimately, your beneficiaries.

A Medicaid recipient can have non-qualified assets up to $30,182.00, retirements accounts

The Benefits of a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust

in an unlimited amount (provided those accounts are set up for a specific monthly distribution), an irrevocable pre-paid burial and a car. If the Medicaid recipient is receiving Community Medicaid, the recipient can own their primary residence; however, if the primary

residence is in the recipient’s individual name at death, there will be recovery for the benefits paid by Medicaid during the recipient’s life. This recovery can be avoided if the primary residence is held in a MAPT when the recipient passes.

What happens if your house is in

a trust, and you decide to move: No problem. The trustee can sell the house and then the proceeds can be used to buy another home or simply invested to pay you income from the trust. Similarly, if you put your stock investments in the trust, the trustee can buy and sell securities in the trust. The new home and the new stock stays in the trust. The grantor of the trust keeps all the income, and the principal is protected.

Trusts can be legally complicated, and if you do decide to investigate a MAPT, it’d be wise to consult with an attorney who specializes in that area of law and keeps a close watch on statutory changes that may affect the operation of the trust.

Hon. Gail Prudenti is a Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice on 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.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, Against

YEN LOPEZ A/K/A YEN

R. LOPEZ A/K/A YEN S.

LOPEZ A/K/A YENNIFER

LOPEZ A/K/A YENNIFER

R. LOPEZ A/K/A

YENNIFER S. LOPEZ, et al.

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/12/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 4/2/2024 at 10:00AM, premises known as 42 Sterling Ave, Patchogue, New York 11772, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town Of Brookhaven, County Of Suffolk, State Of New York.

District 0200 Section 951.00

Block 06.00 Lot 005.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $713,931.57 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 624041/2018

Daniel James Murphy, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 1/9/2024 File

Number: 272-0299ny CA

L15769 - 2/28/2024, 3/6/2024, 3/13/2024, & 3/20/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Suffolk

HomeBridge Financial Services, Inc., Plaintiff

AGAINST

Brenda Perez, et al, Defendant

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated November 13, 2017 and entered on November 29, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY

on April 9, 2024 at 10:30

AM premises known as 422 Gazzola Drive, East Patchogue, NY 11772. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York,

SECTION: 975.70, BLOCK: 02.00, LOT: 020.000

District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $283,356.34 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 025426/2011.

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

Annette Eaderesto, Referee

FRENKEL LAMBERT

WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP

53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706

L15784-3/6/2024,3/13/2024, 3/20/2024,&3/27/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff

AGAINST

Rosa Mrozek; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 5, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on April 9, 2024 at 10:00AM, premises known as 168 Woodland Drive, Mastic Beach, NY 11951. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Mastic, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200 Section 977.00 Block 02.00 Lot 005.000.

Approximate amount of judgment $127,910.18 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 622634/2021. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District.

Elsie Acevedo, Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: January 26, 2024

L15793-3/6/2024,3/13/2024, 3/20/2024,&3/27/2024

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST MICHAEL KINNEY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 18, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on April 16, 2024 at 11:00AM, premises known as 731 Blue Ridge Drive, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Medford, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200 Section 605.10 Block 01.00 Lot 731.000. Approximate amount of judgment $252,659.25 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603783/2023. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time.

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004426 79688

L15794 - 3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, & 4/3/2024

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK -

BROOKHAVEN. BOARD OF MANAGERS OF BLUE RIDGE CONDOMINIUM II, Plaintiff -against- MICHAEL KINNEY, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated January 5, 2024 and entered on January 24,2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, located at 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on April 5, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Medford, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, known and designated as Unit No. 731 in the condominium known as "Map of Blue Ridge Condominium" together with a .2273% as tenants in common elements. District: 0200 Section: 605.10 Block: 01.00 Lot: 731 Said premises known as 731 DARYL DRIVE, MEDFORD, NY 11763 Approximate amount of lien $17,589.74 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 610214/2022.

IAN SACK, ESQ., Referee McGiff Halverson Dooley Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

276 Fifth Avenue, Suite 704, New York, NY 10001

{* SOUTH SHO4*}

L15798-3/6/2024,3/13/2024, 3/20/2024,&3/27/2024

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT:

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v.

HARRY HARTINGER, ET AL, Defendants.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT

286 Wavecrest Drive Mastic Beach, NY 119511419

SBL: 969.00-14.00-001.004

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Village of Mastic Beach, Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 206224/2022 in the amount of $156,520.25 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff

500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072

L15799-3/6/2024,3/13/2024, 3/20/2024,&3/27/2024

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, v.

RALPH COLE A/K/A

RALPH COLE, JR., A/K/A

RALPH COLES, ET AL, Defendants.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on October 18, 2022, I, Scott B. Augustine, Esq., Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on April 05, 2024 at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, at 10:30AM the premises described as follows:

112 Hounslow Road Shirley a/k/a Brookhaven TWP, NY 11967

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on December 18, 2023, I, Annette Eaderesto, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on April 04, 2024 at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, at 10:30AM the premises described as follows:

Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: District: 0200 Section: 937.00 Block: 03.00 Lot:

015.000 Item: 48-03540

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 623978/2018 in the amount of $192,737.69 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072

L15800 - 3/6/2024, 3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, & 3/27/2024

Notice of formation of SILVER DOGS LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on DECEMBER 5, 2023. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to JENIELLE SCHWARZ, 410 EAST MAIN STREET, EAST MORICHES, NY 11940 Purpose: any lawful purpose.

L15801-3/6/2024,3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, 4/3/2024&4/10/2024

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 2007-2, Plaintiff, Against DAVID T. MITCHELL, et al.

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 07/26/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 4/12/2024 at 10:00AM, premises known as 43 Tree Road, Centereach, New York 11720, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town Of Brookhaven, County Of Suffolk, And State Of New York.

District 0200 Section 469.00

Block 01.00 Lot 026.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $303,464.33 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 602786/2015

Terence M. Quinn, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10

Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 1/18/2024 File Number: 560-2261 CA

L15803 - 3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, & 4/3/2024

STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

______ MIDFIRST BANK

Plaintiff, vs. Any unknown heirs to the Estate of JOSEPH DICECCO a/k/a JOSEPH

MICHAEL DICECCO, next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest, as well as the respective heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff;

JOSEPH DICECCO; VINCENT DICECCO; REGINA DICECCO; DOUGLAS DICECCO; JOHN DICECCO; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; and “JOHN DOE” and “MARY DOE,”

(Said names being fictitious, it being the intention of plaintiff to designate any and all occupants, tenants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein.) Defendants. _____

Filed: 11/30/2023 Index No.: 629538/2023 SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 45 Gaymore Road Port Jefferson Station, (Town of Brookhaven) NY 11776

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on Plaintiff's attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF

SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is for the foreclosure of: Mortgage bearing the date of February 5, 2008, executed by Joseph DiCecco to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. solely as nominee for Lend America to secure the sum of $307,570.00, and interest, and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County on February 20, 2008 in Liber: M00021671

Page: 921. That Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Lend America duly assigned said Note and Mortgage

to JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association by Assignment dated March 29, 2018 and recorded on April 24, 2018 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Liber: M00022919 Page: 972. That JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to MidFirst Bank, a Federally Chartered Savings Association by Assignment dated May 15, 2018 and recorded on May 30, 2018 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Liber: M00022930 Page: 514. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the Mortgaged Premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the County in which the Mortgaged Premises is situated. District: 0200 Section: 160.00 Block: 07.00 Lot: 012.000

DATED: November 29, 2023 Rochester, New York

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING

YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the Mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your Mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. SCHEDULE A LEGAL DESCRIPTION

ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of

Suffolk and State of New York, known and designated as Lot 100 on “Map of Northshore Village, Section 3” and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on 07/05/1961 as Map No. 3373, said lot being more particularly bounded and described as follows:

BEGINNING at a point on the easterly side of Gaymore Road where the same is intersected by the southerly end of a curve which curve connects the easterly side of Gaymore Road with the southeasterly side of Clifton Place; RUNNING THENCE from said point or place of beginning South 795 degrees, 59 minutes, 00 seconds East 120.59 feet; THENCE South 702 degrees, 0 minutes, 0 seconds West 73.00 feet; THENCE North 82 degrees 31 minutes 00 seconds West 120.00 feet to the easterly side of Gaymore Road and; THENCE along the easterly side of Gaymore Road the following 2 courses and distances:

1. North 702 degrees, 0 minutes, 0 seconds East 57.84 feet; 2. Northerly along the arc to a curve bearing to the left having a radius of 450 feet a distance of 20.50 feet to the point or place of beginning.

L15805 - 3/6/2024, 3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, & 3/27/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Suffolk

ARC Home LLC f/k/a WEI Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff

AGAINST

Adam F. Tuzza a/k/a

Adam Tuzza a/k/a Adam Francis Tuzza, Olga Tuzza a/k/a Olga A. Tuzza, et al, Defendant

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated December 26, 2023 and entered on January 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on April 10, 2024 at 11:00

AM premises known as 80 Woodacres Road, East Patchogue, NY 11772. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and

being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 983.00, BLOCK: 01.00, LOT: 025.000, District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $552,973.37 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 203102/2022.

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

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

Erin McTiernan, Referee

FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706

L15807 – 3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, & 4/3/2024

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK

TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION

TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST ANGELA ZIPPEL INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF ROBERT ZIPPEL, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 16, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on April 22, 2024 at 10:00AM, premises known as 96 Lafayette Drive, Mastic Beach, NY 11951. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 980.60, Block 17.00, Lot 019.001 fka District 0200, Section 980.60, Block 08.00, Lot 019.001. Approximate amount of judgment $281,680.50 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment

Index #200280/2022. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time.

James E. McElhone, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 20-001575 79779

L15808 - 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, 4/3/2024 & 4/10/2024

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLKBROOKHAVEN

BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff -againstMARK DEGASPERI, LISA DEGASPERI AKA

LISA S. DEGASPERI, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated March 14, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, located at 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on April 17, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, as shown on a certain map entitled, "Map of Swan Lake Hills, Section 2" and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on September 14, 1960 as Map No. 3239, known and designated as Lot No. 3. District 0200 Section 895.00 Block 05.00 Lot 051.000

All bidders must wear a face mask/shield at all times and social distancing must be observed by all bidders at all times. Bidders who do not comply with the face mask and/or the social distancing mandate will be removed from the auction.

Said premises known as 35 CIRCLE DRIVE a/k/a 35 CIRCLE DRIVE EAST, PATCHOGUE, NY 11772

Approximate amount of lien $233,181.46 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 624444/2017.

PAUL R. FEUER, ESQ., Referee

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

David A. Gallo & Associates LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 8150.950

{* SOUTH SHO4*}

L15809 - 3/13/2024, 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, & 4/3/2024

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLKBROOKHAVEN.

THE STRATHMORE TERRACE HOMEOWNERS

ASSOCIATIONS, INC., Plaintiff -againstCHRISTIAN DIPALERMO, AS TRUSTEE OF THE JOSEPH J. DIPALERMO IRREVOCABLE TRUST

DATED DECEMBER 17, 1998 AND CHRISTIAN DIPALERMO, et al

Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated September 18, 2023 and entered on October 17, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on April 18, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in Mount Sinai, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at the division line between Lots 82 and 83 as shown on the above mentioned map; being a plot 70.00 feet by 35.12 feet by 70.00 feet by 35.12 feet. District 0200

Section 210.00 Block 02.00

Lot 083.000

Said premises known as 78 HEARTHSIDE DRIVE, MOUNT SINAI, NY 11766

Approximate amount of lien $5,278.70 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 612487/2021.

ROBERT A. MACEDONIO, ESQ., Referee

Schneider Buchel LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

666 Old Country Road, Suite 412, Garden City, NY 11530

{* SOUTH SHO4*}

L15814 - 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, 4/3/2024 & 4/10/2024

REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY

LOAN TRUST 2006HE5, Plaintiff - againstROBERT MIRABILE, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 6, 2024.

I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on the 23rd day of April, 2024 at 10:30 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

Premises known as 8 Stanley Drive, Shirley, (Town of Brookhaven) NY 11967. (DSBL#: 0200-983.30-02.00018.003)

Approximate amount of lien $864,322.51 plus interest and costs.

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

Index No. 002164/2007.

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee.

Davidson Fink LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618

Tel. 585/760-8218

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: February 29, 2024

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.

L15815 - 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, 4/3/2024 & 4/10/2024

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that pursuant to Town Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 4th day of April, 2024 at 5:30 p.m., on the findings of Cashin, Spinelli, & Ferretti, LLC that the building(s) or structure(s) located upon 80 Crestwood Road, in the Hamlet of Rocky Point, New York, SCTM# 0200-032.0002.00-023.000, represents a health and safety hazard and should be removed.

Dated: February 22, 2024

Farmingville, New York

Kevin J. LaValle, Town Clerk

Town Of Brookhaven

L15816–3/20/2024

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that pursuant to Town Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 4th day of April, 2024 at 5:30 p.m., on the findings of Cashin, Spinelli, & Ferretti, LLC that the building(s) or structure(s) located upon 12 Impala Drive, in the Hamlet of Centereach, New York, SCTM# 0200-392.00-06.00045.000, represents a health and safety hazard and should be removed.

Dated: February 22, 2024

Farmingville, New York

Kevin J. LaValle, Town Clerk

Town Of Brookhaven

L15817–3/20/2024

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that pursuant to Town Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY, and streamed live over the

internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 4th day of April, 2024 at 5:30 p.m., on the findings of Cashin, Spinelli, & Ferretti, LLC that the building(s) or structure(s) located upon 5 Garden Place, in the Hamlet of Shirley, New York, SCTM# 0200-851.00-06.00042.000, represents a health and safety hazard and should be removed.

Dated: February 22, 2024

Farmingville, New York

Kevin J. LaValle, Town Clerk

Town Of Brookhaven

L15818–3/20/2024

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Town Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 4th day of April, 2024 at 5:30 p.m., on the findings of Cashin, Spinelli, & Ferretti, LLC that the building(s) or structure(s) located upon 0 (83) Robin Road, in the Hamlet of Rocky Point, New York, SCTM# 0200-034.0005.00-010.000, represents a health and safety hazard and should be removed.

Dated: February 22, 2024

Farmingville, New York

Kevin J. LaValle, Town Clerk

Town Of Brookhaven

L15819–3/20/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. FMJM RWLIV TRUST 2017-1, Pltf. vs. CANDYCE M. VOLKOMMER A/K/A CANDYCE VOLKOMMER, et al, Defts. Index #621222/2019. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Feb. 6, 2024, I will sell at public auction at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on April 24, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. premises k/a 6 Tara Court, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate,

lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200, Section 772.00, Block 07.00, Lot 030.007. Approximate amount of judgment is $591,291.36 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. ELYSA NICOLE GRASSO, Referee. PINCUS LAW GROUP PLLC, Attys. for Pltf., 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556. File No. 09142018.42695. #101219

L15820 - 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, 4/3/2024 & 4/10/2024

Notice of formation of SPALLADINONP LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 02/24/2024. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to SPALLADINONP LLC, 43 ROBERTS RD W., SHIRLEY, NY 11967. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

L15821 – 3/20/2024, 3/27/2024, 4/3/2024 , 4/10/2024, 4/17/2024 & 4/24/2024

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST 2005-2, -againstJORGE PENA, ET AL.

NOTICE OF LEGAL POSTPONEMENT OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on October 29, 2019, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN

HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST 2005-2 is the Plaintiff and JORGE PENA, 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 March 25, 2024 at 10:30AM, premises known as 11 ORMOND PLACE, SHIRLEY, NY 11967; and the following tax map identification, 0200851.00-05.00-004.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 611797/2017. Steven Losquadro, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

L15822–3/20/2024

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 #24027

FURNISH AND INSTALL

LEGAL NOTICES

NEW AERATION SYSTEM AT PATRIOTS PRESERVE, TRI-HAMLET PARK, SHIRLEY, NY

BID DUE DATE: APRIL 11, 2024

Specifications for the abovereferenced bid will be available beginning March 21, 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

There will be a nonmandatory site-visit held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Patriots Preserve, Tri-Hamlet Park, Shirley, NY 11967 at 10:00 a.m.

All interested parties must register to attend by sending an e-mail to: 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

L15823–3/20/2024

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 #24028

PIN 0761.48

MILL ROAD OVER CARMANS RIVER CULVERT REPLACEMENT

BID DUE DATE: APRIL 11, 2024

Specifications for the abovereferenced bid will be available beginning March 21, 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

This project is funded by New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) grant monies and as such is subject to the standards of the granting agency.

The Town of Brookhaven has established Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and Service-Disabled VeteranOwned Business Enterprises (SDVOB) participation goals for this project in accordance with Appendix B of the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Bridge NY Culvert Local Project Agreement (Contract no. D040284/ PIN #0761.48), as follows:

CONTRACT GOALS

C: Commodities: 9% MBE, 17% WBE, 6% SDVOB

CN: Construction: 10% MBE, 15% WBE, 6% SDVOB

*Commodities include construction supplies or materials needed to perform the project. *

The contractor shall make, and document, all good faith efforts made to achieve the MWBE and SDVOB goals. Additionally, all responders must complete and submit the MWBE and SDVOB Utilization Plans found at the end of this bid document under NYS MWBE AND

SDVOB GUIDELINES AND FORMS. Failure to submit the required MWBE and SDVOB Utilization Plans may result in the rejection of your bid.

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

L15825–3/20/2024

AMENDMENTS AND CHANGES TO THE ZONING ORDINANCES OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN CHAPTER 85, ARTICLE VII CONCERNING THE FOLLOWING: TOWN BOARD’S OWN MOTION FOR AMENDMENT OF RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN MEDFORD, NY ADOPTED BY THE BROOKHAVEN TOWN BOARD – MEETING: NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Resolution of Adoption Granting the Town Board’s Own Motion to Repeal Certain Covenants and Restrictions on Property Located in Medford, New York (MED-2 ARC @ MEDFORD)

WHEREAS, on November 30, 2023, a duly advertised public hearing was held to consider the Town Board’s own motion to repeal Covenant No. 3, contained in a Declaration of Covenant and Restriction dated August 14, 1998, and recorded with the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on December 3, 1998, under Liber No. 11931, Page 947, on property located on the east side of PatchoguePort Jefferson Highway (New York State Route 112), north of Horseblock Road, in Medford, New York, further identified by Suffolk County Tax Map

Number 0200-65800-0200013001; and WHEREAS, after due consideration and deliberation; and BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven that the following covenant and restriction, contained in a Declaration of Covenant and Restriction, dated August 14, 1998, and recorded with the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on December 3, 1998, under Liber No. 11931, Page 947, is hereby repealed in its entirety: “3. Development shall be limited to a single building, used for a restaurant only.” RESOLVED that all the other covenants and restrictions, contained in a Declaration of Covenant and Restriction dated August 14, 1998, and recorded with the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on December 3, 1998, under Liber No. 11931, Page 947, shall remain in full force and effect. Condition 1. The applicant must submit proof, to the satisfaction of the Town Attorney’s Office, that Covenant No. 3, contained in a Declaration of Covenant and Restriction dated August 14, 1998, and recorded with the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on December 3, 1998, under Liber No. 11931, Page 947, has been repealed in its entirety.

RESOLVED, the Town Board, as Lead Agency, has determined that pursuant to 6 New York Codes, Rules and Regulations Part 617.3 and 617.6, the proposed action is deemed to be an Unlisted Action, for which a Negative Declaration has been issued.

DATED: MARCH 15, 2024

AT: FARMINGVILLE, NEW YORK STATE OF NEW YORK) COUNTY OF SUFFOLK)

I, KEVIN J. LAVALLE, Town Clerk of Brookhaven, State of New York, do hereby certify that the annexed foregoing is a true copy of the amendments and changes to the Code of the Town of Brookhaven Chapter 85 Article VII which amendment and change was duly adopted by a motion of the Town Board on the 30TH day of November 2023 as herein above set forth as the same appears in the minutes of said meeting on file in my Office. IN

TESTIMONY WHERE OF, I have hereunto set my hand and annexed the seal of the

said Town the 15th day of March 2024.

KEVIN J. LAVALLE

TOWN CLERK

TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN

L15827–3/20/2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN

SOUTH SHORE PRESS

PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE IV, SEC. 85-55 (B) OF THE BUILDING ZONE ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS WILL, IN ACCORDANCE WITH OPEN MEETINGS LAW, HOLD THE FOLLOWING, AT ONE INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, N.Y.: 1. A WORKSESSION ON MARCH 25, 2024 (BZA CONFERENCE ROOM –1ST FLOOR) AT 4:00 P.M., 2. A PUBLIC HEARING ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2024 (2ND FLOOR AUDITORIUM) COMMENCING AT 2:00 P.M. (THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE LIVE STREAMED OVER THE INTERNET AT https://brookhavenny. portal.civicclerk.com, TO CONSIDER THE MATTERS LISTED BELOW and 3. A WORKSESSION ON MARCH 27, 2024, (PUBLIC DINING AREA 2ND FLOOR) COMMENCING AT THE END OF THE CALL OF EITHER THE 2:00 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR AND/ OR THE END OF THE CALL OF THE ENTIRE PUBLIC CALENDAR, AS TIME PERMITS TO DISCUSS THE DECISION CALENDAR

3. Christopher Coyle, Long Island Property Developers Inc. 4 Ethan Allen Ct., South Setauket, NY. Location: South side Ozark St., 450' East of Clinton Ave., Ronkonkoma. Applicant requests division of a parcel into 4 plots, 1, 2, 3 and 4 requiring no variances for proposed one family dwelling on plot 1 (lot conforms). (0200 56600

0600 019000)

4. Christopher Coyle, Long Island Property Developers Inc. 4 Ethan Allen Ct., South Setauket, NY. Location: South side Ozark St., 580.48' East of Clinton Ave., Ronkonkoma. Applicant requests lot frontage variance for proposed one family dwelling on plot 2.

5. Christopher Coyle, Long Island Property Developers Inc. 4 Ethan Allen Ct., South Setauket, NY. Location: South side Ozark St., 565.48' East of Clinton Ave., Ronkonkoma. Applicant requests lot frontage variance for proposed one family dwelling on plot 3.

6. Christopher Coyle, Long Island Property Developers Inc. 4 Ethan Allen Ct., South Setauket, NY. Location: South side Ozark St., 550.48' East of Clinton Ave., Ronkonkoma. Applicant requests lot frontage variance for proposed one family dwelling on plot 4.

10. Breskin Realty Associates, LLC, 500 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY. Location: South side Rt. 25A 838' West of Miller Place Rd., Miller Place. Applicant requests the following relief for proposed food market (MP Market): loading docks and service area proposed along Rt. 25A north elevation located within the Route 25A Hamlet Center Overlay District (not permitted). (0200 11900 0100 003006)

11. Breskin Realty Associates, LLC, 500 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY. Location: South side Rt. 25A 838' West of Miller Place Rd., Miller Place. Applicant requests height variances for 22'7" high, 120 sq. ft. wall sign on south and east elevations (18' high, 80 sq. ft. permitted); height variance for proposed 20'10" high, 120 sq. ft. wall sign north elevation (18' high, 80 sq. ft. permitted); permission for 2 ground signs (1 permitted - 1 existing & 1 proposed); also, wood or wood-like materials with direct lighting for all of said signs and located within the Route 25A Overlay District required (backlit & anodized aluminum provided).

13. Mount Pleasant

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES •

Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 81, Center Moriches, NY. Location: West side Cemetery Rd. (Chet Swezey Rd.), 537.75' North of Montauk Hwy., Center Moriches. Applicant requests lot area & lot frontage variances for existing 2 story storage/office building (west) and existing 1 story storage/office building (east) and permission for total building area to exceed the 6% permitted of total lot area (8.7%); rear yard and minimum & total side yard variances for said 2 story building (west); minimum side yard variance for said 1 story building (east); also, side yard variances for existing A/C equipment and proposed dumpster enclosure. (0200 85900 0100 008005)

24. 185 Patchogue Avenue Holding Corp., 1051 Mastic Rd., Mastic, NY. Location: North side Patchogue Ave., 93.10' East of Mastic Rd., Mastic. Applicant requests the following relief of Planning Board special permit criteria for proposed warehouse & processing building (Mastic Seafood): minimum front yard setback (50' required - 30' provided); minimum rear yard (50' required - 25' provided to warehouse & processing building 9.1' provided to generator, 20.7' provided to masonry dumpster enclosure). (0200 85300 0600 028000, 026000, 027000, 024000, 029000, 025000)

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL COMMENCE AT 4PM

30. Massimo & Lisa Dellipizzi, c/o Christine Nicholl, 18 Railroad Ave., Center Moriches, NY. Location: Northwest corner of Amanda Way and Melissa Path, Center Moriches. Applicant requests front yard setback variance from Amanda Way for existing pool house located in the front yard (Amanda Way). (0200 71800 0300 006007)

33. Long Island Development Group, LLC., c/o Andrew Malguarnera, 713 Main St., Port Jefferson, NY. Location: West side

Claremont Dr., 200' South of Pineway Ave., Mastic Beach. Applicant requests total side yard variance for existing

one story residence addition. (0200 97000 1200 013000)

34. John Condy, c/o Andrew Malguarnera 713 Main St., Port Jefferson, NY. Location: North side

Peter Rd., 368.38' East of Foster Rd., Ronkonkoma. Applicant requests permission for existing conversion of carport to habitable space. (0200 72500 0700 033000)

37. Manuel Esteves, c/o Woodhull Expediting 800 Veteran Memorial Hwy., Ste.-CL-101, Hauppauge, NY. Location: East side Harrison Ave., 150' South of N.Y.S. Rt. 25A, Miller Place. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage, front yard setback, rear yard and minimum and total side yard variances for proposed one family dwelling on a 50 ft. lot. (0200 09900 0800 003000)

39. Anthony & Barbara Liberti Revocable Trust, 75 Crystal Beach Blvd., Moriches, NY. Location: East side Crystal Beach Blvd., 1191.56' North of Beverly Ct., Moriches. Applicant requests side yard variance for proposed inground swimming pool. (0200 88400 0300 023000)

45. Kogel Bros., 390 Middle Country Rd., Middle Island, NY. Location: Northwest corner St. Francis Blvd. and Middle Island Rd. (Millers Rd.), East of Faig St. (not open), Middle Island. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage (all streets), front yard setback from all streets, rear yard and minimum side yard variances for proposed one family dwelling. (0200 37800 0100 014000)

48. Joseph Ribaudo, 10 Smith St., Center Moriches, NY. Location: South side Smith St., 290' West of Lake Ave., Center Moriches. Applicant requests permission for existing 2nd story residence addition. (0200 88600 0200 014000)

CASES WILL BE HEARD AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD.

HOWARD M. BERGSON CHAIRMAN

L15828–3/20/2024

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 4th day of April at 5:30 p.m., to consider enacting the following proposed

Introductory Local Law:

Introductory Local Law Number 8 of 2024

Amend Chapter 45 entitled “Sanitation”, Section 45-2 entitled “Definitions”, Section 45-4 entitled “Littering and dumping” and Section 4512 entitled “Penalties for Offenses” of the Town Code of the Town of Brookhaven

Summary

It is the intent of this amendment to Chapter 45 entitled “Sanitation”, Section 45-2 entitled “Definitions”, Section 45-4 entitled “Littering and dumping” and Section 45-12 entitled “Penalties for offenses” of the Town Code of the Town of Brookhaven to add a violation of Town code and create a penalty for dumping in Town dumpsters, public receptacles and in public recycling receptacles.

This is a summary of the proposed Local Law, a full copy of which is on file in the Town Clerk's Office and is available for inspection during regular Town business hours.

At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.

Kevin J. LaValle

Town Clerk, Town of Brookhaven

Dated: March 14, 2024 Farmingville, New York

L15829–3/20/2024

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,

LEGAL NOTICES

One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, for the following item(s) on the dates indicated:

Bid #24037 – On-Call Irrigation Services, Rebid--March 28, 2024

Bid #24041 – Mobile

Concession – Diamond in the Pines---April 3, 2024

Bid #24042 – Mobile

Concession – Martha Ave (Rebid)---April 3, 2024

Bid #24006 – Parks

Department Annual Asphalt Pavement Contract---April 4, 2024

Bid #24031 – Street Sweeper Parts---April 4, 2024

Bid #24036 – Uniforms--April 4, 2024

Specifications for the abovereferenced bids will be available beginning March 21, 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 minorities and women-owned businesses 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

L15830–3/20/2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, held a public hearing at 5:30 P.M. on March 14, 2024, at Town Board Auditorium at Independence Hill, Second Floor, Farmingville, New York, and streamed live over the internet at Brookhavenny.gov/ meeting, with respect to easements to be acquired by the Town of Brookhaven for drainage purposes, situated at 1137 Middle Country Road, Selden, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, New York. As a result of said public hearing, the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven has made and adopted the following findings and determination:

1. The reason for the acquisition of the easements is for drainage purposes to install and maintain

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Sections 264 and 265 of Town Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven at the Town Board Auditorium located at One Independence Hill, Second Floor, Farmingville, New York 11738, which will be streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny.gov/meeting, on April 4, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. to consider an application known as “SAFStor @ Bellport – Change of Zone Application,” for a change of zone from A Residence 1 to L Industrial 1 for a proposed mini-storage warehouse, on property located on the south side of New York State Route 27 (Sunrise Highway South Service Road), east of Station Road, in Bellport, New York, further identified by Suffolk County Tax Map Number 0200-929000300-031001. A more detailed diagram of the subject property is on file at the Office of the Town Clerk and may be examined during regular office hours and by any interested person. At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.

Dated: March 14, 2024

KEVIN J. LAVALLE, TOWN CLERK Farmingville, New York TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN

L15832–3/20/2024

underground leaching pools currently connected to an existing on-site easement leaching pool system which is subject to a Town easement.

2. The location of the proposed easements is on the northwest corner of Middle Country Road and Boyle Road, known as 1137 Middle Country Road, Selden, New York, and designated as SCTM No. 0200-472.0002.00 p/o 001.001. The easements are located at the easterly most portion of the site, along the westerly side of Boyle Road, north of Middle Country Road.

3. No negative environmental effect would be engendered by the project.

4. The Town Attorney of the Town of Brookhaven is hereby directed to proceed to acquire title to the aforementioned easements through the exercise of Eminent Domain Copies

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