The South Shore Press 5/29/24

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk Photo

BY STEFAN MYCHAJLIW

ByStefanMychajliw

Having spent three decades working in media and politics as an investigative journalist and elected official, I can say with strong authority that I’ve “seen it all.” I’ve interviewed Presidents, former Presidents, those who wanted to be President, and elected officials at every level of government. I then

gathering petition signatures for school board candidates he was supporting.

It is a simple task that’s quite common to qualify candidates for public office. You receive a list of registered voters from the neighborhood you’re going to go door-to-door to, knock on the door, ask the registered voter

served honorably for nine years as the Erie County Comptroller, same position as Suffolk County Comptroller John M. Kennedy Jr. Now I’m “back in” media as the News Director of the South Shore Press.

I’ve seen some eye-popping, mind-blowing things as both a reporter and public servant.

I thought I’d seen it all until the day I was asked by former gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino for help

who is supposed to live there for a signature on a petition, and move on to the next house.

New York State requires this process to run for office. Some states simply require you to pay a fee and you’re on the ballot. Not here. In the Empire State, you have to collect a specific amount of signatures to run for office. It really is an incumbent protection program meant to make it very difficult for challengers to compete against sitting elected

South Shore Press to Investigate Election Integrity

officials.

Nothing could prepare me for what I experienced going door-todoor in my old neighborhood, an economically impoverished area that many folks were afraid to go to.

After receiving a list of registered voters and addresses, off I went with my clipboard to find these voters, get them to sign, and on to the next.

What I experienced next was quite shocking.

There were clearly abandoned, empty homes where no one lived, yet had registered voters at that specific address. Some of these homes were clearly marked by utility companies as abandoned. There would be a big

the light bulb went off for both of us: Let’s begin a series on election integrity in the South Shore Press.

The first thing we did was simply

spray-painted red box on the front of the house, identifying homes as having the utilities shut off.

No one lived there. No one. Yet there were most definitely registered voters at that address. What. Was. Going. On?

After numerous inquiries, we were told it was the classic case of municipal employees paying a landlord to claim they were living in the city in order to be in compliance with residency requirements. These government workers clearly lived in the suburbs, but needed a city address to show they were “living” in that municipality in order to keep their jobs.

I was sharing this story with the owner of this newspaper, when

look up the form/application to register to vote in Suffolk County. It’s basically the “honor system.” Anyone at any time can fill out an application to register to vote, put in the address of their choice, and send

it in to the Board of Elections.

Question #13 on the form asks you to validate your identity. It asks for your driver’s license number, the last four digits of your social security number, or the most interesting box to check:

"I do not have a New York State driver’s license or a Social Security number."

This got the wheels turning on a special series on election integrity. We’re going to interview lawyers who once worked as legal counsel for the Board of Elections. We’re traveling to multiple states to review their voting machines. We’re going to find answers to one basic question: How prevalent is election fraud?

Keep an eye out for this series over the next few weeks.

We look forward to informing you and holding those in power accountable.

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

South Shore Press News Director Stefan Mychajliw with President Trump

South Shore Press News Director Stefan Mychajliw with President Bush

South Shore Press News Director Stefan Mychajliw with Ted Cruz

South Shore Press News Director Stefan Mychajliw with Al Gore

South Shore Press News Director Stefan Mychajliw with President Bush

LOCAL

ByRobertChartuk

Center Moriches Honors Hometown Heroes

The Hometown Heroes of Center Moriches are proudly on display along Main Street, thanks to the efforts of three eighth graders and the support of the community.

Middle School students Addison Raupp, Kristin Luna, and Adrianna Loesch raised over $4,000 for the banners, which feature photos of the veterans and a description of their service. Working through the Hometown Heroes Program, the students put together 52 banners spanning from World War ll to the present day.

Scouts from Troop 23 volunteered to put up the banners, with the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches pledging to help maintain them through Veterans Day in November. Center Moriches is a patriotic place with an annual Memorial Day Parade going back decades, and many of its residents have stepped up to serve. In front of the Clayton Huey Elementary School stands a monument to those in World

War I and II, an asterisk marking those who didn’t make it home. Memorials are also featured at VFW Post 414 in the center of town.

The banners feature four generations of heroes from a single family, starting with great-grandfather Americo Eaderesto (Army), grandfather Joe Magg, Sr. (Army), dad Joe Magg, Jr. (Air Force), and his son Anthony Magg (Air Force).

Founder of Rico’s Clothing, a popular haberdashery on Railroad Avenue for the last 70 years, Americo’s banner features a Purple Heart, indicating he was wounded in action during

World War ll. His son, Alex, also served and will be recognized on a future banner, his brother, Anthony, said. The posters were sponsored by the Magg Family and the law office of Annette Eaderesto.

“It’s wonderful to have so much community spirit among our young people and to see their interest in our many veterans,” said Gerry Sapanaro, chamber treasurer. “These banners really make our main business district stand out by paying homage to our local heroes,” she said, noting that the light poles also feature hanging plants provided by Kurt Weiss Greenhouses.

“Thanks go out to Rich Raupp, Addison’s father, for his exceptional direction and unwavering commitment in steering this project to its successful completion,” the Chamber posted. “A huge thank you to Addison, Kristin, and Adrianna for initiating the Hometown Heroes project, a heartfelt tribute honoring our veterans. Your dedication to recognizing and celebrating their sacrifices is truly commendable.”

Center Moriches Memorial Day Parade

225,000 Flags Placed at Calverton National Cemetery

A team of 5,000 volunteers honored those who made

ByStefanMychajliw

An estimated 5,000 volunteers were on hand to place American flags on graves at Calverton National Cemetery. A wide range of Veterans Service Organizations, Scout groups, volunteers, and families placed an estimated 225,000 flags on gravesides across the cemetery. These flags will remain there until June 1st, 2024. Larger flags now line the “Avenue of Flags.” Those will be on display in and around the cemetery until June 9th, 2024.

ByRobertChartuk

Center Moriches paid its respects to those who have given their lives in service to our country with a Memorial Day parade and service at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Residents lined Main Street to view local organizations, fire departments, and the high school band in a procession that included County Executive Edward Romaine, a Center Moriches resident, and local veterans groups.

Photo Credit: Calverton National Cemetery

the ultimate sacrifice.

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk

LOCAL Middle Island Memorial Day Event

ByRobertChartuk

Bartlett Pond Park with its veteran monuments in Middle Island is a perfect setting to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in keeping our country free. A Memorial Day event there was made possible through the efforts of Gail Lynch-Balley, along with the Longwood Alliance, Middle Island Civic Association, Central Brookhaven Lions Club, Scout Troops 433 & 560, Brookhaven Town and Councilman Mike Loguercio, Frank Bailey, Tony & James Bocchimuzzo, Paul Infranco, Van Johnson, Marcel Rosenfeld, Dan Tomaszewski, Kevin Mann, Bugler Jerry Ewald, Jim Dowling, Tom Bove, Steve Pastena, Andy Suderov, the Middle Island, Coram, Gordon Heights, Yaphank and Ridge Fire Departments, U.S. Military Vets Motorcycle Club, Patriot Guard Riders NY, Reliable Garden & Fence, Longwood Central School District, Longwood High School Seal of Civic Readiness students and faculty adviser Jeanne Knudsen, and the Longwood Choralions and Director Brendan Sparks.

A Memorial Day Symbol: The Red Poppy

ByRobertChartuk

The red poppy, ubiquitous around Memorial Day, traces its roots as a “Flower of Remembrance” to World War I and a poem by a Canadian surgeon who was struck by the blooming of the crimson flower in fields where so many had been killed.

In Flanders Fields

By John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

First published in a London magazine and then in the Allied nations, it inspired two women who, in separate countries, would play a role in making the poppy a symbol of Memorial Day.

University of Georgia professor Moina Michael wrote a poem in 1918 in response to McCrae’s, titled “We Shall Keep Faith,” and started wearing a red poppy in honor of the troops. She then started making and selling the symbolic red poppies to raise money for veterans.

Meanwhile, in France, Anna Guérin came up with the same idea and organized poppy drives to raise money for widows, orphans and veterans, as well as fund France’s postwar restoration efforts. She turned her idea into an “Inter-Allied Poppy Day” and started Poppy Days worldwide selling the fundraising flowers in various Allied countries. Poppy factories sprung up, many employing disabled servicemen to make the silk and paper blooms.

The Friday before Memorial Day has been deemed National Poppy Day and funds are still being raised by any number of veteran causes. Poppies are handmade by veterans as part of their therapeutic rehabilitation and distributed across the country by the American Legion Auxiliary in exchange for donations that assist disabled and hospitalized veterans.

The First World War World lasted from 1914-1918 and was one of the deadliest global

conflicts in history. Fighting occurred throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Pacific, and parts of Asia. An estimated 9 million soldiers were killed in combat, plus another 23 million wounded, while 5 million civilians died as a result of military action, hunger, and disease. Millions more died as a result of genocide, while the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic was exacerbated by the movement of combatants during the war.

The United States entered the war in 1917 and within a year it was over as Germany and the other “Central Powers” surrendered under the Armistice of 11 November 1918. The Paris Peace Conference imposed various settlements on the defeated powers, the best-known being the Treaty of Versailles.

The horrors of the conflict were detailed in the novel, “ All Quiet on the Western Front,” by Erich Maria Remarque, which has been made into several movies.

Photo Credit: Amazon.com

The Friday before Memorial Day has been deemed National Poppy Day.

Photo Credit: Robert Chartuk

LOCAL

ByStefanMychajliw

Dress for Success Celebrates 25 Years of Service

Dress for Success Brookhaven will celebrate 25 years of serving others with a big gala on June 5th, 2024.

It will take place at Giorgio’s Baiting Hollow, 100 Fox Hill Drive in Baiting Hollow.

Attendees will see the unveiling of the new Dress for Success Mobile Career Center, which will deliver services directly to women throughout Long Island.

The proceeds from Dress for Success Brookhaven’s Gala will directly support programs for women in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. The 2024 Distinguished Honorees include:

•Impact Award to Victoria Schneps Yunis; Schneps Media

•Humanitarian Award to Karla Waldron; Racine’s Salon Dress for Success Brookhaven is seeking sponsorships from organizations/partners to be a part of their 25th Anniversary Gala.

You can call 631.451.9127 for more information about the gala, to buy tickets, or to donate to Dress for Success.

Each Dress for Success client receives one suit when she has a job interview and can return when she finds work to receive a week’s worth of clothing.

The Dress for Success Boutique is located at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill in Farmingville. It is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All client visits are by appointment only.

Suffolk County Students Lay Wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

ByStefanMychajliw

To honor all who made the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom here at home and around the world, Rocky Point Middle School eighth-grade students placed a memorial wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This was one part of the eighth-grade class educational trip to Washington D.C.

“We were honored to be part of the ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,” Rocky Point Middle School Principal Dawn Meyers said. “It really put into context the true reason of Memorial Day for our students and helped

them fully understand the sacrifices of American service members. The ceremony was an important part of the multifaceted educational experience combining history, civics, politics, culture and science, fostering critical thinking, civic engagement, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the world around them.”

Located at Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier holds the remains of those who died in battle during World War I. Remains of other conflicts were added to the sacred resting place in 1958 and 1984.

Long Island State Veterans Home Honors Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice

ByStefanMychajliw

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo was one of many local leaders to attend a solemn and somber ceremony at the Long Island State Veterans Home, where many honored and remembered those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation and paid tribute to our local veterans.

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South Shore Press, LLC. is a proud member of the following community organizations: The Greater Mastic Beach Chamber of Commerce, The Rocky Point Sound Beach Chamber of Commerce, The Mastic/Shirley Chamber of Commerce, The Moriches Chamber of Commerce, The Bellport Chamber of Commerce, The Manorville Chamber of Commerce, The Medford Chamber of Commerce and The New York Press Association.

The Long Island State Veterans Home, located on the Stony Brook University campus, provides skilled nursing care, adult day health care, and short-term rehabilitation to the more than 100,000 Veterans who live in Suffolk County and all of Long Island. It is one of 163 State Veterans Homes across the country.

“This Memorial Day, we honor those who lost their lives in service to our country and are forever grateful to the men and women of our Armed Forces who defend our nation and protect our freedoms and liberties,” said Senator Palumbo.

Serving the Communities of The Village of Bellport, Brookhaven, Center Moriches, Centereach, Coram, East Moriches, East Patchogue, Eastport, East Shoreham, Farmingville, Gordon Heights, Lake Ronkonkoma, Manorville, Medford, Mastic, The Village of Mastic Beach, Middle Island, Miller Place, Moriches, Mount Sinai, North Bellport, The Village of Patchogue, Port Jefferson Station, The Village of Port Jefferson, Ridge, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Selden, Shirley, Shoreham, Smith Point, Sound Beach, Speonk, Terryville, Wading River, & Yaphank.

Photo

Photo Credit: Senator Anthony Palumbo Solemn ceremony at the Long Island State Veterans Home

Photo Credit: Rocky Point Middle School

U.S. Army Sergeant Matthew Borden, a sentinel for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with Rocky Point Middle School students Robert Hilts, William Tenzler, Isabella Mollineaux and Jayna Cohn.

ByRobertChartuk

Gilgo Investigators Return to Suspect Home

The Gilgo murder case is back in the headlines as a team of investigators returned to the home of the prime suspect in the case, architect Rex Heuermann, who’s been jailed since July for the alleged murder of four women in a crime spree that has horrified Long Island.

The decade-old cold case was broken following the election of Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney, who created a special task force to reinvigorate the investigation. Following Heuermann’s initial arrest, police combed through his Massapequa home and other properties, where they found the Chevy Avalanche that proved to be the lynchpin in the case when it was tied to Heuermann by a friend of one of the victims. Tierney,

citing an ongoing investigation, declined to give further details on the new search.

Police previously found a large cache of weapons at Heuermann’s home hidden behind a false wall and disclosed evidence seized in the investigation, including phone records and computer searches that showed the suspect had an intense interest in the

Gilgo investigation, Tierney reported.

The District Attorney promised to leave no stone unturned in the task force’s mission to find those responsible for all of the dozen victims found along the desolate stretch of Ocean Parkway in Babylon where their bodies were discovered. Heuermann was initially arrested for the murder of three of the Gilgo victims and was charged with a fourth as the investigation continued. Search teams descended on the Manorville woods three weeks ago where body parts had previously been found that were matched to remains found at Gilgo. Search teams expanded into Calverton and the Southampton community of North Sea, reportedly looking

New Flavor Spices up Setauket

ByStefanMychajliw

There’s a big-time spice of Mexican flavor in the old “Old Fields Tavern" in Setauket, as a new restaurant is calling 130 Old Town Road its new home.

A laundry list of local officials were on hand for the official grand opening of Ixchel Mexican Cuisine. Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico was on hand, along with Suffolk County Legislator Steve, New York State Assemblyman Ed Flood, representatives from the Three Village Chamber of Commerce,

and the Port Jefferson Station/ Terryville Chamber of Commerce.

“I was proud to be on hand, on behalf of the Town of Brookhaven, to welcome this beautiful family and wish them continued success in their new local business,” said Supervisor Panico.

Owners of the new restaurant, Juan and Daphnee Munar, were inspired by Ixchel: the Mayan Moon Goddess, who is believed to be a powerful influence over moon cycles, rainfall, medicine, and even fertility.

for clues in the Gilgo case and other unsolved murders.

Students Honor Suffolk County's Top Cops

ByStefanMychajliw

Students and staff at Waverly Elementary School in Holtsville wanted to show police their gratitude and appreciation for keeping Suffolk County safe.

They decided to honor Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Sheriff Christopher Brockmeyer and fellow members of the department with a “Hero Parade.”

Students lined the hallways and bus loops, clapping and cheering as the community heroes walked through.

Chief Brockmeyer has protected and served Suffolk County families for more than two decades, entering the force in

He followed in his father’s footsteps, who bravely served as a 37-year New York City Police Department Detective.

Chief Brockmeyer is credited with maximizing technology to implement a “data-driven” focus for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office. He spearheaded the creation of the Police Technology Management Section and managed technologyrelated software, equipment, and initiatives that included the Records Management System, Computer Aided Dispatch, InCar and Body Camera systems, License Plate Reader technology, security and access control, and many others.

East Quogue Schools Awarded Mental Health Grant

ByStefanMychajliw

The East Quogue Union Free School District was awarded the “New York State Recover from COVID School Programs Mental Health Grant,” totaling $663,180 over two years.

The grant funds will be allocated directly to benefit students and the school community in the following areas:

Therapy dog (potentially starting in school every day in January 2025)

WILD Cat’s (Connections Adventure Team) summer camp and field trips

Behavior Analysis Parent Workshops

Teacher professional development

Wellness Club

Chromebooks with Licenses-100

Club supplies

Four MacBooks

Club coordinators

Social-emotional books

Translation phone services

Salary for the school social worker and part of a psychologist

“We are excited about the

positive impact these initiatives will have on our students’ mental health and overall well-being.

Thank you to everyone involved for their hard work and dedication in securing this grant and for their ongoing commitment to our students’ success,” said East Quogue Union Free School District Superintendent/Principal Michael Miller.

Photo Credit: eastquogue.k12.ny.us

East Quogue UFSD was awarded

the “New York State Recover from COVID School Programs Mental Health Grant"

Photo Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

Photo Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

Hero Parade at Waverly Elementary School

Hero Parade at Waverly Elementary School

Photo Credit: Facebook.com

Photo Credit: Facebook.com

Community and business leaders celebrate the official grand opening of Ixchel Mexican Cuisine.

Community and business leaders celebrate the official grand opening of Ixchel Mexican Cuisine.

Photo Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Rex Heuermann

ByRobertChartuk

Long Island Officials Serious about Retail Crime

It’s an appalling sight: thieves loading up shopping carts and bags and walking out of stores without paying. Clerks are instructed not to stop them, and most are not arrested. If they are, in many major cities, district attorneys have pledged not to prosecute.

Organized Retail Crime (ORC) was the headline of a recent summit called by Congressman Anthony D’Esposito (R-Island Park) and attended by more than a dozen officials and business reps. “What the roundtable made clear was that organized retail crime is a huge problem and one that’s costing corporations and consumers billions of dollars over the years. It must be stopped,” D’Esposito said.

Fellow Long Island Rep. Nick LaLota joined the congressman in announcing his bill targeting the problem, called the “Supporting Law Enforcement Officers’ Ability to Combat Organized Retail Crime Act.” The legislation directs Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers to develop guidance, outreach, training, programs, and materials to educate law enforcement on threats posed by organized retail crime, according to D’Esposito.

“The introduction of this legislation comes as a result of

careful conversations with law enforcement and corporate professionals and is an important first step in curtailing the damages caused by ORC,” said Rep. D’Esposito. “Education and communication between law enforcement professionals is paramount, and I look forward to Congress’ passage of my bill, which does exactly that.”

Assembled at the David Mack Center for Training and Intelligence, a police facility in Garden City, were Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney; Nassau District Attorney Anne Donnelly; Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder, Nassau County

Executive Bruce Blakeman, Department of Homeland Security

Assistant Special Agent in Charge George Ioannidis, Suffolk Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr., Suffolk Deputy Police Commissioner

Belinda Groneman, Home Depot

Sr. Manager of Asset Protection Investigations Sean Browne, Walgreens Director of Asset Protection Solutions Joseph Stein, and Walmart Senior Analyst Matthew Walsh.

“I want to be clear to everyone that we’re not talking about petit shoplifting,” Home Depot’s Browne said. “Not theft for need, but theft for greed, and in many cases, to

fund ongoing criminal enterprises.” He attributed the increase in crime to the need for cash to drive drug addictions, as well as the rise of third-party online marketplaces that facilitate the anonymous sales of stolen goods. Long Island officials blame cashless bail and the pro-criminal policies of the state’s Progressive Democrats for fostering the crime wave. Shoplifting incidents reported to county police departments on Long Island last year rose nearly 20%, according to reports, with Macy's, Target, and Walmart in Westbury posting the most incidents.

Gov. Kathy Hochul and state

Big Boat Blaze Put out by Suffolk Police Marine Bureau

ByStefanMychajliw

Suffolk County Police boat blaze busters put out a raging fire on a vessel and rescued three boaters who escaped the inferno.

The Marine Unit was dispatched to an out-of-control fire on a 2014 Rodma Cruiser approximately one mile south of Timber Point in the Great South Bay.

The three people on board the boat hopped on another boat, then eventually boarded a Suffolk County Police Department vessel. They were not hurt.

Officers aboard Marine Kilo deployed fire suppression hoses to put out the big blaze.

The Suffolk County Police Department Marine Units patrol the 500 square miles of navigable

waterways in the Police District, from the Connecticut state line which bisects the Long Island Sound, to the New York state line three miles south of Fire Island in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Land areas covered include Fire Island and Jones Island barrier beaches and the islands of the Great South Bay. Marine units also respond to water and ice rescues on the inland lakes, ponds and streams of the District.

The Bureau is staffed by 83 sworn officers and civilian personnel, augmented each summer by the addition of eight officers on seasonal assignment.

Approximately 50 officers are Coast Guard-licensed Masters (captains) and about 70% are Emergency Medical Technicians

- Defibrillator (EMT-D). Barrier beach units, boats, and the SCUBA team are available 24 hours a day.

Marine officers also enforce the New York State Navigation Law and the Environmental Conservation Law, as well as local ordinances unique to the waterways and barrier beaches.

The Suffolk Police Marine Bureau aggressively enforces New York State's boating while intoxicated (BWI) laws. Suffolk County routinely leads the State in BWI arrests.

The core of the Marine Bureau fleet are 40-foot patrol boats: Bravo in Huntington, Delta in Port Jefferson, and Juliett and Kilo in the western and eastern Great South Bay.

These vessels respond to search and rescue (SAR) missions for overdue or disabled vessels and missing persons. Officers of the Marine Bureau are available, trained, and equipped to tow disabled boats, and dewater sinking boats, and perform marine firefighting. The Bureau also handles boating accidents and several officers are trained marine accident investigators. Marine units also handle disturbances on passenger ferries and charter boats and transport police personnel and investigating officers to the barrier beach.

in Albany to reform the criminal justice system. “Either that or they close up shop, leaving many communities without options for even the most basic products,” DeStefano said, pointing out that many stores are forced to keep more valuable items under lock and key.

legislative leaders repeatedly refuse to amend the disastrous cashless bail system but did earmark $40.2 million in this year’s budget for dedicated retail theft teams and approved up to $5 million in tax credits for businesses to enhance security. Hochul previously vetoed a bipartisan bill that would have established a New York State Organized Retail Crime Task Force.

“Ultimately, consumers bear the brunt of the lax policies of the Democrats as retailers are forced to raise prices to cover the losses,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano (R,C-Medford), who has fought

“We demand stricter laws to combat this issue, and we are committed here in Long Island to protect not only our residents but also our businesses,” Suffolk DA Tierney said. Back in 2022, after busting four Newark, NJ residents, for stealing nearly $100,000 in high-end handbags from luxury stores in the Hamptons, Tierney commented: “I cannot emphasize this enough: retail theft in Suffolk County will not be tolerated, and if you attempt to steal property that does not belong to you, we will catch you and send you to prison.”

Law enforcement in Buffalo recently won a guilty plea from a 38-year-old man for running a retail theft operation responsible for stealing $1 million in goods from Erie County stores, and in California, a retail theft task force busted a crime ring that was found with a half million dollars in merchandise stolen from Lowe's, Home Depot, and Harbor Freight.

Mather Hospital Makes the Grade

ByStefanMychajliw

Mather Hospital earned its 20th top ‘A’ grade for patient safety from “The Leapfrog Group” in the current ratings period, the most of any hospital in Suffolk County. Mather was one of seven Northwell Health hospitals to earn the top grade, according to a report released today by The Leapfrog Group for Spring 2024. The other Northwell hospitals are:

- Glen Cove Hospital

- Huntington Hospital

- Northern Westchester Hospital

- Peconic Bay Medical Center

- Plainview Hospital

- South Shore University Hospital

“This national recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire Mather team,” said Executive Director Kevin McGeachy. “We have created a culture of safety that encourages team members to speak up about any possible concerns.”

The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization, assigns A, B, C, D or F grades to nearly 3,000 acute-care hospitals nationwide, which is based on 30 evidencebased patient safety performance measures, as well as federal data. The organization issues the report twice a year.

Photo Credit: SCPD

A 2014 Rodma Cruiser near Timber Point in the Great South Bay caught fire.

Photo Credit: Mather Hospital

Mather Hospital earned its 20th top ‘A’ grade for patient safety from The Leapfrog Group.

Photo Credit: Office of Raymond Tierney

Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney at a recent summit on Organized Retail Crime.

LOCAL

ByStefanMychajliw

How to Spend $4.5 Million in Brookhaven? You Decide

The Town of Brookhaven wants to hear from you on how to spend almost $5 million on improvements in downtown North Bellport. That is why your input is needed on how to spend the state funds in the area.

The second of six Local Planning

Committee (LPC) meetings will take place on Wednesday, June 12th, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club of the Bellport Area located at 471 Atlantic Avenue in Bellport.

The grant funds are from the New York State “NY Forward” initiative meant to invest and revitalize downtowns across the

Empire State.

Your thoughts on how to spend the grant money are critically important to help North Bellport develop a Strategic Investment Plan that identifies specific projects that align with a unique vision for the revitalization of the downtown area.

Honors Continue for Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year

ByStefanMychajliw

New York State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano presented an official

certificate to the 2024

& Girls

The Patchogue-Medford School District senior, who is planning to pursue a career in medicine, was named the Youth of the Year because of her strong community involvement.

Hightower will now serve as an ambassador for the Boys and Girls Club.

“I was honored to speak with Aliya and her mother, who has done a fabulous job of raising her. We talked about the importance of supporting our youth and keeping them safe. This is something that the Boys and Girls Club does a fantastic job with, and they will continue to have my support. My heartfelt congratulations to Aliya and I wish her the best of luck in all her future endeavors,” said Assemblyman DeStefano.

Suffolk Approves Historic Affordable Housing Bill

ByRobertChartuk

Tackling a problem that has troubled Long Island for years, the Suffolk Legislature took a “historic” step to create affordable housing by requiring developers to set aside at least 15% of new units for those in the lower tax brackets.

Sponsored by Legislator Nick Caracappa, the measure requires builders connecting to Suffolk’s sewer system or seeking tax breaks or other assistance from the county to be subject to the affordable setasides. Developers can also work with Suffolk’s townships to increase the housing amount to 20%.

“The goal here is to keep our young workforce here in Suffolk and also help our seniors who want to downsize or are on fixed incomes,” said Caracappa, a member of the legislature’s Economic Development, Planning, and Housing Committee. “It will really help keep Suffolk County sustainable by keeping working people working here, by keeping people who contribute back into the community.”

According to the legislator, the measure “flew a little under the radar because there was a lot of pushback from the very beginning. But in the end, this turned out to be a true partnership with the building industry, the developers,

A Fond Farewell for a Dedicated Public Employee

The Suffolk AME (Association of Municipal Employees) honored the longtime President of its Medical Examiners Unit upon her retirement.

Ramona Scioli-Delzio, a forensic scientist, served the Suffolk County community for four decades in the Medical Examiners Unit.

and the contractors; everyone came together and saw that we were not looking for 50%. We're looking for 15%, and we can work together. It truly is a historic accomplishment,”

Caracappa said, noting that there are about 50 new affordable units currently in the construction pipeline. “Every development that comes in going forward will have affordable units and we're just going to keep adding to those numbers, so it’s significant.”

Caracappa characterized the young workforce as the “backbone of the community. ”They contribute

back into the community as far as the mom-and-pop stores go, pizzerias, movie theaters, restaurants,” he said, adding, “The alternative to this is probably housing vouchers and not giving any subsidies to developers; that would not be practical because we would kill all development here in Suffolk County and then where would people live? It's a true partnership. I'm proud of it.”

The legislator, representing the densely populated 4th District in the center of Brookhaven Town, continued: “I've been called the champion of affordable housing, but

The union offered a retirement tribute to Scioli-Delzio and thanked her for her 40 years of service to Suffolk County:

I'm just trying to do the right thing here. Thankfully, my colleagues gave the proposal bipartisan support, which was important.” He was joined by County Executive Edward Romaine and legislators from both sides of the aisle at a bill signing ceremony in Hauppauge. “We want to get this done now so we don’t let any opportunities slip

“Ramona's unwavering commitment to our union and her fellow members is truly inspiring. She has been a beacon of support, always ready to share valuable information, stand in solidarity, and offer assistance to her brothers and sisters in Suffolk AME. While we are saddened to see Ramona separate from service, we are extremely proud to include her among our ranks as an AME Retiree. We celebrate her accomplishments and wish her all the best in this new chapter of her life,” wrote the Suffolk AME.

through our fingers. The lawmaker had previously pushed through legislation that requires affordable units for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Onebedroom rentals will be around $2,000 under the affordable criteria, nearly half of what it is using the current median income guidelines.

Photo Credit: Town of Brookhaven

Public hearing: New York State “NY Forward”

Boys

Club of the Bellport Area Youth of the Year, Aliya Hightower.

Photo Credit: Assemblyman Joe DeStefano

2024 Boys & Girls Club of the Bellport Area Youth of the Year, Aliya Hightower

ByStefanMychajliw

Photo Credit: Suffolk AME

Ramona Scioli-Delzio retired after 40 years of service to Suffolk County taxpayers.

Photo Credit: Legislator Caracappa

County Executive Edward Romaine, left seated, and Suffolk Legislator Nick Caracappa at a signing ceremony for a historic affordable housing bill. With them, from left are Legislator James Mazzarella, Commissioner of Economic and Development Sarah Lansdale, Legislator and Minority Leader Jason Richberg, Legislator Chad Lennon, Legislator Catherine Stark, and the Director of Affordable Housing Stephanie Rosen.

ByStefanMychajliw

Eastport-South Manor Appoints New Directors

The Eastport-South Manor Central School District announced that Stacey Chiavola and Patrick Hayes have been appointed director of world languages, ENL and FLES, and director of health, physical education, and Athletics, respectively, for the 2024-2025 school year.

Mrs. Chiavola has worked at Dayton Avenue School as a grade 3-6 English New Language teacher since 2015. Before becoming an ENL teacher, Mrs. Chiavola served as a tenured fifth-grade teacher.

A Bohemia resident, Mrs.

Chiavola received a bachelor’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Dowling College and a master’s degree in Education in Literacy from Long Island University.

A Sayville resident, Mr. Hayes currently serves as the director of athletics, health, and physical education at the South Country Central School District since 2022.

While a teacher in Longwood Schools, Mr. Hayes, who currently serves as head coach of the varsity boys basketball team, was named League 1 Coach of the Year twice and coached the team as two-time

League 1 Champions. As head coach, Mr. Hayes also coached the junior varsity football team through three undefeated seasons and coached middle school boys soccer and varsity boys lacrosse, tennis and basketball.

Mr. Hayes is a 2007 graduate of Eastport-South Manor Jr.-Sr. High School and then pursued a Bachelor of Science in K-12 Physical Education at SUNY College at Cortland. He received a Master of Science in Liberal Studies and certification in coaching at Stony Brook University, as well as a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership at SBU.

Ronkonkoma Middle School Students

Jazz It Up

ByStefanMychajliw

Ronkonkoma Middle School’s Rhythm Factory Jazz Band attended a field trip to The Jazz Loft in Stony Brook under the direction of band teacher

While there, the Connetquot students participated in a workshop run by jazz historian, music educator, and cornet player Dr. Thomas Manuel. Dr. Manuel

is the founder and president of The Jazz Loft, a creative space that joins jazz performance, preservation and education in celebration of the past, present, and future. Dr. Manuel dedicates his professional efforts to both the preservation of Long Island’s jazz history as well as presenting it to future generations.

Students experienced a guided tour of historical jazz instruments and relics featured in the museum. Dr. Manuel guided students with musical interpretations and improvisation, a jazz technique in which musicians compose their music on the spot. Students ended their trip with a preview performance of their upcoming spring jazz concert.

Creative Kindergarten Cooks Learn Lessons in Pi by Pizza Pies

in

Students became chefs, making “shape pizzas” and topped them with different shapes to represent pepperoni, mushrooms, ham and onions. After the students added their “toppings,” they counted and recorded how many of each shape they had.

Elizabeth Alaimo.

ByStefanMychajliw

Photo Credit: ESM School District

Photo Credit: ESM School District

Photo Credit: Ronkonkoma Middle School

Stacey Chiavola Patrick Hayes

The Jazz Loft in Stony Brook.

ByStefanMychajliw

Some creative kindergarten cooks learned some mathematical lessons about numbers and “pi” using pizza pies.

Kindergartners

Ms. McNally’s class at Edward J. Bosti Elementary School in the Connetquot Central School District celebrated the completion of their shapes unit in math by turning their classroom into an Italian restaurant.

Photo Credit: Bosti Elementary School

Ms. McNally’s class at Edward J. Bosti Elementary School

ByRobertChartuk

Suffolk Officials Designate EMS Appreciation Week

When they put out a 911 call for an ambulance, Suffolk County residents know that someone will be there to help. Emergency Medical Service workers, many of them volunteers, are always there, day or night, good weather or bad, to serve their communities.

Now, with legislation approved by county officials, the third week in May will be dedicated to these emergency workers as “EMS Appreciation Week.” The measure was celebrated at a special ceremony hosted at the South Country Ambulance headquarters in Bellport attended by Legislator Dominick Thorne, sponsor of the designation bill, County Executive Edward Romaine, who signed it into law, and dozens of members of Suffolk’s ambulance, fire, and emergency rescue agencies.

“This morning’s bill signing is a recognition of the invaluable lifesaving service and care provided by the men and women in the county’s organizations,” Romaine said. “By declaring the third week in May as EMS Appreciation

Week in Suffolk, we acknowledge and express our gratitude for the lifesaving dedication of our first responders.”

President Gerald Ford proclaimed EMS Appreciation Week on a national level in 1974 to highlight the importance of emergency professionals. “A half-century later, it seems fitting for the County of Suffolk to add its voice to celebrate, acknowledge, and thank our EMS for the lifesaving work they do every day,” said Thorne, himself a former emergency services volunteer for 27 years. “Each day of every week,

EMS providers put the needs of their communities above their own needs as they respond to crises, treat injuries, and save lives.”

Last year alone, Suffolk EMS workers responded to an estimated 172,000 requests for ambulance service, emergency calls that were covered by 93 EMS agencies throughout the county, according to Thorne, who serves as chairman of the legislature’s Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness Committee. “It is a great honor to sign into law Suffolk County’s EMS Appreciation

Week legislation,” said Thorne, as he thanked the over 50 EMS professionals at the ceremony representing more than 20 fire and ambulance services, ranging from Huntington to Montauk.

“Behind me stand heroes, a cross-section from all over our county, some of the highest-trained emergency care providers in the nation, from ambulance operators to EMTs to advanced critical care EMTs to paramedics,” Thorne continued. “They continually give us their greatest effort, all the while leaving their families to care for strangers. We are eternally grateful.”

Also attending the ceremony was Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, a Medford Fire Department Commissioner and fire and ambulance volunteer for more than 40 years. “A whole week to recognize the service of our EMS force is an excellent way to thank them and remind the community of what they do,” DeStefano said. “Dedicating oneself to emergency services takes commitment, skill, strength, and long hours away from

family. We are very fortunate to have such an outstanding group of people to serve us.”

Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of President Ford’s declaration, South Country Ambulance Chief Gregory C. Miglino, Jr., stated: “Honoring our past. Forging our future; we are proud of our membership and the incredible job they perform day and night to keep our community protected. Thank you for all you do.”

“I am proud to be part of designating a special week just to recognize our EMS volunteers for all that they do for our communities throughout Suffolk County,” said Legislator Jim Mazzarella at the signing event. “They are our unsung heroes and deserve this and so much more recognition and appreciation. We thank them all.”

Also in attendance were Legislator Chad Lennon, Brookhaven Town Councilman Michael Loguercio, and Suffolk Health Department Commissioner Gregson Pigott.

School District Budget and Board Votes in the History Books

ByStefanMychajliw

Local school and library budgets passed with flying colors in school districts across Suffolk County on Tuesday, May 21st. Here are results:

Eastport-South Manor School District

Budget Vote (#1)

Yes: 690

No: 284

Library Vote (#2)

Yes: 836

No: 136

Eastport-South Manor School District Board Candidates (Vote for Two)

Michael Davis: 584*

Marion Diener: 450*

Shannon Timoney: 334

Sondra Daiera-Loccisano: 248

*Elected to Board of Education

Connetquot School District

Budget Vote:

Yes: 2184

No: 1018

Connetquot School District

Board Candidates (Vote for Two)

Mallon: 1660*

Torregrossa: 1577*

Burger: 1518

Napolitano: 1327

*Elected to Board of Education

South Country Central School District

Budget Vote

Yes: 880

No: 343

South Country Central School District School Board Candidates (Vote for Two)

Deborah DeLillo: 864 *

Chris Picini: 643 *

Cameron Trent: 598

*Elected to Board of Education

Quogue School District

Budget

Yes: 160 No: 30

Quogue Library

Yes: 170 No: 18

Quogue School District School Board Candidates (Vote for One)

Deborah Disston: 107*

Margaret O’Leary: 68

*Elected to Board of Education

East Quogue School District

Budget Vote

Yes: 348 No: 68

Library Vote

Yes: 370 No: 44

East Quogue School District Board of Education

Christopher Hudson: 381*

*Elected to Board of Education

Blue Point School District

Budget Vote

Yes: 798 No: 303

Blue Point School District Board of Education

For a three-year term commencing May 21, 2024, and ending June 30, 2027, to succeed

Julia Conlon:

Mallory Dougherty: 837*

*Elected to Board of Education

Seat 2:

For a three (3) year term commencing July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2027, to succeed

Adrienne Cirone:

Paul Wright: 827*

*Elected to Board of Education

Center Moriches School District

Budget Vote:

Yes: 509

No: 421

Center Moriches School District Board of Education:

Brian Tenety: 707*

*Elected to Board of Education

Rocky Point Union Free School District

Budget Vote

Yes: 846

No: 289

Proposition 2 – Capital Reserve

Fund

Yes: 919

No: 217

Proposition 3 – Hallock Homestead Museum

Yes: 787

No: 352

Rocky Point Union Free School District School Board Trustee Election

Michael Lisa: 599*

*Elected to Board of Education

Cop Saves Dogs from Burning Home

A

County Police Officer beat back intense flames and heavy smoke to save the lives of three dogs trapped inside a burning home in Rocky Point.

Seventh Precinct Officer Matthew Ingui responded to a 911 call reporting a house fire, located at 181 Magnolia Drive, and saw three dogs through the

window of the burning home. Officer Ingui smashed the window of the home and was able to pull the three dogs to safety. No one was home at the time of the blaze. No one was hurt. Several fire departments, including Rocky Point, Ridge, Sound Beach, Miller Place and Wading River all responded to the scene. The cause of the fire is believed to be noncriminal.

Photo Credit: South Country Ambulance

Dozens of members of Suffolk’s ambulance, fire, and emergency rescue agencies were on hand for the signing ceremony.

ByStefanMychajliw

Suffolk

Photo Credit: SCPD

Seventh Precinct Officer Matthew Ingui and the three dogs he saved.

ByStefanMychajliw

Connetquot Community Comes Together to Promote Mental Health Awareness

The Connetquot Central School District community came together to support the student-led community initiative, “Using Our Voices” Mental Health Run/Walk.

It included a 5K run and Kids Fun Run, as well as opportunities to visit information booths connected to local mental health organizations.

The student-led run/walk was created by Center Moriches student leaders as a follow-up event to “P.S. I Love You Day” and the first annual Student-Athlete Leadership Conference that Center Moriches High School hosted for Section XI

this school year.

Connetquot High School collaborated with student leaders from Center Moriches and North Babylon school districts to host this special event.

The goal of “Using Our Voices” was to share important messages about reducing stress and anxiety, building relationships and supporting students’ mental and physical health through movement.

Additionally, the run/walk allowed students to use their leadership skills to promote civicmindedness and to work toward achieving the district’s New York State Seal of Civic Readiness.

Future Picassos Earn National Art Honor Society Recognition

ByStefanMychajliw

The Eastport-South Manor

Jr.-Sr. High School announced that 28 student artists in grades 10-12 were recently inducted into the National Art Honor Society during a traditional candle lighting ceremony.

The National Art Honor Society

is a program that inspires and recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding ability and interest in art. The program supports members in their efforts to attain the highest standards in art scholarship, character, and service, and brings art education to the attention of the school and community.

Bayport-Blue Point School Students Shine on Stage

ByStefanMychajliw

A group of Academy Street Elementary fifth graders in the Bayport-Blue Point School District performed their short play, “The Bunny Bounce.”

The production was entirely student-driven with the fifth graders writing, casting, and

directing the entire play on their own with very little guidance. They first approached their principal, Lorie Beard, with the idea in October and have been working on it for months. Students recently premiered the show for an audience of kindergarten through fifth-grade students.

Long Jail Time for Man Accused of Shooting at Crowd and Assaulting Cops

ByStefanMychajliw

First, he stood accused of opening fire at innocent people attending a candlelight vigil in Bellport in July of last year.

Once behind bars awaiting trial for that crime, 27-yearold Steven Reid was accused of launching an unprovoked attack against a corrections officer while in prison.

For both of those crimes, Reid was sentenced to 14 years in jail, followed by five years of post-release supervision, announced Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney.

“This defendant’s brazen actions at a candlelight vigil followed by his violent attack on a corrections officer show a blatant disregard for the safety of others and the rule of law,” said District Attorney Tierney. “My office will continue to pursue justice relentlessly to ensure the safety and security of our community.”

It was July of 2023 when more than 100 people gathered in Bellport to celebrate the life of a community member who had died in a motorcycle accident days before.

At the end of the candlelight vigil, police and prosecutors said Reid became involved in a physical altercation with another man who attended the vigil. During that fight, Reid was accused of pulling out a gun and shooting the man at point-blank range in the

upper right thigh. The bullet shattered the man’s femur, passed through his leg, and lodged into his right shin.

Vigil attendees placed a tourniquet on the man’s leg and rushed him to the hospital where he underwent emergency orthopedic surgery to replace his shattered femur with metal rods and pins.

Minutes later, prosecutors stated Reid followed the crowd and opened fire on another group of vigil attendees and shot at one man from close range. That victim suffered four gunshot wounds, including gunshot wounds to his back, shoulder, and both of his legs.

Right after that, police said Reid opened fire at a female two times and then shot at another group of people, including a woman and a

nine-year-old boy, as they were running toward a nearby residence.

Reid fled Suffolk County and was eventually apprehended in North Carolina. In September 2023, Reid was brought back to Suffolk County to face charges.

On December 19th, 2023, while in custody at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility, law enforcement said Reid assaulted a corrections officer without provocation.

Reid pleaded guilty before Supreme Court Justice Anthony Senft to:

Attempted Murder in the SecondDegree,aClassBviolent felony;

Assault in the First Degree, a ClassBviolentfelony;

Criminal Possession of a WeaponintheSecondDegree,a ClassCviolentfelony;

AssaultintheSecondDegree,a ClassDviolentfelony.

This case was prosecuted by the Violent Criminal Enterprise Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Wilson Nieves of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fifth Squad, United States Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Task Force, and the Warrant Enforcement Section and Computer Crimes Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department.

Photo Credit: ESM School District

Photo Credit: Bayport-Blue Point School

National Art Honor Society ceremony

“The Bunny Bounce" on stage

Photo Credit: Connetquot Central School District

Runners from the Connetquot, Center Moriches and North Babylon communities attended the “Using our Voices” Mental Health Run/Walk.

Photo Credit: Suffolk County District Attorney's Office Steven Reid sentenced to 14 years in prison.

STATE

ByStefanMychajliw

NYS Conservative Chairman Blasts Governor Hochul over "Clown" Comment

New York Governor Kathy Hochul pulled no punches, ripping supporters who showed up to President Trump’s rally in the Bronx, calling the Make America Great Again (MAGA) faithful a bunch of “clowns.”

The reaction to her clown comments was swift and severe from conservatives across New York.

Governor Hochul made the clown remarks concerning supporters of President Trump while appearing with Jake Tapper on CNN.

“I’ll tell you what won’t make a difference at all, Jake and that’s for Donald Trump to be the ringleader and invite all his clowns to a place

like the Bronx,” Hochul told CNN.

New York State Conservative Chairman Gerard “Gerry” Kassar ripped Hochul for the remarks.

“Governor Kathy Hochul has now joined Hillary Clinton and Andrew Cuomo in broadly disparaging millions of New Yorkers simply because of what they believe.

Mrs. Clinton called conservatives "deplorables," Mr. Cuomo said conservatives were unwelcome in New York State, and, now, Mrs. Hochul is calling us "clowns." These insults say far more about today’s political left than they do about conservatives.

“President Trump, who will joust sharply with political opponents over issues, won’t disparage entire groups of people for their belief structures. But to today’s progressive

Democrats, who claim to be liberalminded, anyone who disagrees with them is unworthy of respect, or even politeness. Conservatives are met solely with scorn and derision, even on a personal level.

“The Conservative Party vehemently disagrees with the woke policies Governor Hochul has enacted in New York. We believe they have made the state less safe, less affordable, and less competitive. But we would never call the governor a "clown" for her principles or beliefs. That would be beneath us, just as her comments yesterday were beneath the dignity of her office. We encourage her better angels to do the talking next time. What she said yesterday is unacceptable.”

State Democrats Continue Handcuffing Cops Wanting to Deport Illegal Immigrants

ByDeborahWilliams

Democrats in Albany torpedoed legislation that would have given more power to local police to share information with federal law enforcement about the arrests of illegal immigrants, so that it would be easier to deport them.

The bill aimed to reverse socalled “Sanctuary City” policies that have inflamed issues related to the flood of illegal immigrants into New York.

The legislation that failed to pass, named after Laken Riley, a young nursing student who was brutally beaten to death near the University of Georgia by an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, was introduced by Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo (R-7th) and Senate Deputy Minority Leader Andrew Lanza (R-24th).

Before he murdered Riley, Jose Ibarra was arrested in 2022 in Queens on child endangerment charges and was released before ICE could process and deport him.

Ibarra has known connections with the brutal Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang. When released in New York, Ibarra traveled to Georgia where he killed Riley as she went for a jog.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo signed an Executive Order on September 15th, 2017, that designated New York as a sanctuary state and made it nearly impossible for state and local law enforcement to cooperate with federal ICE agents.

Republican supporters of the “Laken Law” here in New York had hoped that Governor Hochul would at least rescind Cuomo’s Executive Order, but she has taken no action as the state continues to be ravaged by costs and crime associated with illegal immigrants.

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt weighed in saying, “The migrant crisis continues to spiral

out of control as a direct result of open borders, sanctuary policies, and soft-on-crime measures championed by Democrats at the state and federal level. Governor Hochul and President Biden could take measures to reverse the massive influx of migrants with the stroke of their pens, but they continue to allow it unchecked – leaving New York taxpayers on the hook and our streets less safe. If our Governor and President won’t act to protect New Yorkers, the Legislature must step in to do so.”

The proposed legislation would mandate that local and state law enforcement, as well as certain courts, notify ICE of the arrest or conviction of criminal illegal immigrants. It would also repeal the "Protect Our Courts Act" of 2020, which was intended to discourage cooperation with and enforcement of federal immigration laws.

“New York Democrats have consistently worked to undermine federal immigration authorities and protect those who enter the United States illegally. We must compel law enforcement at every level to cooperate with ICE, and strengthen our laws so that New York is no longer a preferred destination for illegal immigrants - especially those with criminal intent,” said

Assemblyman Gandolfo.

Meanwhile, Democrats stuck to their guns, protecting illegal aliens from being deported and preventing law enforcement from reporting them to ICE.

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (D-81st) said, “New York has held

the position of protecting those who are coming to this country for a better life and to protect against aggressive immigration enforcement.”

“The failed immigration policies of President Biden and Governor Hochul are making New Yorkers

less safe. Illegal migrants attacking our citizens and our brave men and women in law enforcement must be deported. This bill reverses course and allows our courts and police to notify federal authorities to get these dangerous people off our streets.” concluded State Senator Lanza.

Photo Credit: Twitter.com

Laken Riley was murdered by an illegal immigrant, Jose Ibarra

Photo Credit: CNN

NYS Governor Kathy Hochul called MAGA supporters "clowns."

ByDeborahWilliams

Big Court Battle Brewing over Controversial "Equal Rights Amendment"

New York State has filed an appeal that slammed the brakes on putting the controversial “Equal Rights Amendment (ERA)” up for a vote on this November’s ballot.

Republicans criticized the ERA as being a “Trojan horse” public referendum that keeps parents in the dark on their son or daughter engaging in a sex change operation.

Democrats claimed the Equal Rights Amendment strengthens abortion rights in New York, even though the procedure is already legal in the Empire State.

Those who fought to put the Equal Rights Amendment to be voted on by all New York voters this November lost a big court case in the New York State Supreme Court this month.

The latest loss was on procedural grounds, and New York State has officially filed an appeal to get it back on the November ballot.

Critics claim the Democrat-led Senate and Assembly abandoned the constitutional process for pushing the amendment forward and Justice Daniel Doyle ruled the ERA amendment could not appear on the 2024 ballot.

The constitution requires that the ballot language be reviewed by the New York Attorney General and that the office run by Letitia James will “render an opinion in writing to the Senate and Assembly as to the effect of such amendment”

on the Constitution.

The state constitution is clear that only after the New York Attorney General sends over the official opinion, is the state legislature allowed to vote.

Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes (R-133rd) led the lawsuit to remove the amendment from the ballot. The judge agreed with Byrnes's arguments and recognized the state strayed from the constitutional process of obtaining the proper approval from the NYS Attorney General.

Doyle did not agree with the state

that this was a minor issue and that the amendment should proceed to the ballot.

Judge Doyle was sharp in his opinion striking down the Equal Rights Amendment ballot measure, stating, “‘Substantial compliance’ is not compliance, and this court cannot condone actions taken by the Legislature in derogation of the expressed will of the people.”

“The constitution is the supreme will of the people,” he wrote. “Its amendment should be undertaken by strict adherence to the will of the people.”

Hero Welcome for Trump in the Bronx

ByRobertChartuk

Breaking free from a New York trial engineered by the Biden administration to keep him off the campaign trail, Republican candidate for president Donald Trump received a hero’s welcome in the South Bronx, a Democrat stronghold that saw 30,000 residents come out to greet him.

Trump ridiculed his opponent’s record and told the crowd that the only way Biden can win is through “lawfare.” Coordinated by the White House, Democrat prosecutors have targeted Trump in four different jurisdictions in an unprecedented abuse of the legal system. “They’re not after me, they’re after you; I’m just standing in the way,” Trump said of his “Communist” opponents.

Designed to show his support among black and Hispanic voters and take the fight to Blue State New York, the rally featured former Senator Rubén Díaz, Sr., who announced his endorsement of the 45th president. Díaz shocked the Democrat establishment by apologizing for Judge Juan Merchan, a fellow Hispanic, for his handling of the New York trial.

“Mr. President, l am a Puerto

Rican, a black Puerto Rican. I used to be a senator for 15 years; l used to be a city council member. As a Puerto Rican, as a Hispanic, l want to apologize to you for the conduct of Judge Juan Merchan. He has been used to destroy you, but we know better than that,” Díaz told Trump.

He went on to hurl a barb at Bronx Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez, a Democrat who staged a sparsely attended protest prior to Trump’s event. “As a minister, as president of the New York Hispanic Clergy Organization, l want to tell AOC: This morning, she intended to become a prophet, saying even God doesn’t want Trump in the Bronx because it’s going to rain. Madam Prophet AOC, you have become a false prophet. Look at what a beautiful day,” he said, pointing up at a clear blue sky. “That means that not only you guys want Trump in the Bronx, because we are going to measure that with the weather. I would say, humbly, that even God wants you in the Bronx.”

Part of a rogues’ Gallery of Democrat judges and prosecutors following Biden orders to “Get Trump,” as famed legal scholar Alan Dershowitz put it,” Merchan

Democrats supporting ERA claim it is about codifying abortion rights, but it is clear that “abortion on demand” is under no threat here in New York. Many see the ERA ballot measure as a democratic “Get Out the Vote (GOTV)” effort pushing turnout in their effort to flip several Congressional seats in November.

Governor Hochul dug in after the loss in court saying, "Our decadeslong fight to protect equality and reproductive freedom will not be thrown off track by one extremist judge and I look forward to casting my ballot for the Equal Rights Amendment in November.”

The New York Constitution already bars discrimination against people based on race, color, creed, and religion.

ERA would add a whole host of additional protected categories. The ERA amendment reads, “No person shall, because of race, color, creed [or], religion, be subjected to any discrimination in his or her civil rights by any other person or by any firm, corporation, or institution, or by the state or any agency or subdivision of the state.”

Many who oppose the ERA vote believe the vagueness of the amendment language is intentional so that young kids can engage in sex change operations without notifying their parents.

Michele Sterlace, Executive Director of Feminists Choosing Life, has been clear in her view

refused defense motions to recuse himself after it was revealed that he is a Biden donor and his daughter has a lucrative business raising money for prominent Democrats by using lawfare as a key element of their donor appeals.

In a speech that detailed some of his successes in his hometown of New York and his record as president, Trump highlighted a myriad of Biden failures, including the record inflation that is devastating minority communities, high interest rates, escalating crime, illegal immigration, the drug epidemic, the war in Ukraine and Gaza, and his use of the supposedly

that Governor Hochul is intent on having the state intervene in parental rights when it comes to gender and social transitioning of minor children and promoting boys playing on girls' sports teams.

"The proposed so-called Equal Rights Amendment potentially provides the court system and public schools in NY with more power than parents to determine what is best for their children. The amendment threatens to deprive parents of crucial opportunities to help their own kids navigate the most difficult circumstances a minor may face; an unplanned pregnancy or gender confusion," said Sterlace.

New York Attorney General Letitia James (D), whose office is appealing the decisions, is undeterred by the Judge’s ruling. She said, “The Equal Rights Amendment was advanced to protect people’s fundamental rights like reproductive freedom and access to abortion care. The decision to strike the ERA from the ballot in November is disappointing, and we’re appealing to defend New Yorkers’ rights,” James said in a statement.

It is expected the courts will expedite the appeal as it involves a time-sensitive process of certifying the ballot so that Suffolk County taxpayers can vote on it in November. The state Board of Elections will need to certify the ballot by early September.

blind criminal justice system to attack political opponents.

“I’m here to declare that we are going to turn New York City around and we are going to do so very, very quickly,” Trump promised a crowd that has suffered under generations of Democrat rule. “We’re going to bring safety back to our streets; we’re going to bring success back to our schools. We’re going to bring prosperity back to every neighborhood. We are going to reduce taxes; we are going to bring businesses and big taxpayers back to New York. We’re going to bring back New York bigger and more beautiful than

ever before and that includes right here in the Bronx.”

Trump said he would work with New York Mayor Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul to help fulfill his agenda for the city. Just before the speech, the governor, who recently drew the ire of the black community by saying their children don’t know how to use computers, had her “deplorable” moment when she disparaged Trump supporters in a cable news interview. Asked about Trump’s bid to win New York, Hochul stated, “Well, I’ll tell you what won’t make a difference at all and that’s for Donald Trump to be a ringleader and invite all his clowns to a place like the Bronx.” More than 74 million Americans cast their vote for Trump in 2020, with 3.2 million coming from the Empire State.

The Trump Team shot back: “Kathy Hocul is just upset that President Trump is pulling crowds in her state that she could only dream of, and Democrats are in disarray because Americans, including Hispanics and blacks, are waking up to the fact that Joe Biden and the Democrat Party have been using them for votes and ripping them off for decades.”

Photo Credit: Trump Campaign

More than 30,000 supporters turned out for President Trump in the Bronx.

Photo Credit: Facebook.com

New York State Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes

ByDeborahWilliams

Congress Blocks Illegal Immigrants from Voting in Washington D.C.

The House of Representatives recently passed a bill to prevent illegal immigrants from voting in District of Columbia (D.C.) elections.

The House bill passed with strong bipartisan support by a vote of 262-143. Fiftytwo Democrats joined the Republican majority in favor of keeping voting rights exclusive to American citizens.

In 2022, the District of Columbia Council passed a local law to allow illegal immigrants to vote in their locally based elections.

“Allowing noncitizens— including illegal aliens and foreign agents—to vote in elections dilutes the voting power of the citizen voter,” said bill sponsor Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX).

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) weighed in stating, “The radical policy from the DC city council to allow noncitizens to decide local elections is anti-American and dilutes the constitutional rights of DC residents.”

The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act, enacted in 1996, unequivocally prohibits noncitizens from participating in federal elections.

This law applies to House, Senate, and presidential elections but does not apply to state and local elections. So if local municipalities pass laws that allow illegal immigrants to vote, they can do so in local elections, but not federal races.

What could lead to potential voter fraud are even years when federal races are on the same ballot as local races.

The State Supreme Court of New York ruled the 2021 ordinance in New York City that permitted illegal immigrants to vote in local elections as unconstitutional.

Sixteen municipalities in California, Maryland, and Vermont, as well as Washington D.C., allow illegal immigrants to vote in local elections.

There are 12 states with no explicit impediment to illegal immigrants voting: Arkansas, California, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey,

North Dakota, and Ohio.

Some states are cracking down on illegal immigrants from voting in any election and have gone so far as to pass laws formally blocking it. Each state must intentionally prohibit illegal immigrants from voting in local elections, and some have done exactly that. Seven states amended their state constitutions to explicitly prohibit illegal immigrants from voting including Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana,

With deep losses in minority voter support, immigrants, both legal and illegal, are likely to be a big new voter pool for the Democratic party.

Democrats have hit a 60-year low with black and Hispanic voters. A recent Wall Street Journal poll showed 57% of black men planned to vote for President Joseph Biden and 30% for President Donald J. Trump.

Compared to 2020, when polls showed 87% support for Biden and just 12% for Trump,

Biden Plays Race Card at Commencement Speech

ByRobertChartuk

President Biden made race the centerpiece of his recent commencement speech at Morehouse College, a primarily black school founded in Georgia more than 150 years ago. The address served as a political campaign stop geared toward shoring up the minority vote, which has been souring on the incumbent in recent months.

“You have to be 10 times better than anyone else to get a fair shot,” Biden told the graduating class.

“What is democracy if a trail of broken promises still leave black communities behind? If black men are being killed in the street, what is democracy? If black men are being killed on the streets, we bear witness. For me, that means to call out the poison of white supremacy, to root out systemic racism.” The president, who’s held public office as a Democrat for a half-century, ticked off a laundry list of boasts designed to appeal to black Americans.

“Instead of a trail of broken promises, we’re investing more money than ever in black families and black communities,” Biden stated. “We’re reconnecting black neighborhoods cut off by old highways and decades of disinvestment where no one cared

about the community. We’ve delivered checks in pockets to reduce black child poverty to the lowest rate in history. We’re removing every lead pipe in America so every child can drink clean water without fear of brain damage, and then can’t afford to remove the lead pipes themselves. We’re delivering affordable highspeed Internet so no child has to sit in their parents’ car or do their homework in a parking lot outside of McDonald’s.”

To light smatterings of applause, Biden continued: “Instead of forcing you to prove you’re 10 times better, we’re breaking down doors, so you have 100 times more opportunities: good-paying jobs you can raise a family on in your neighborhood; capital to start small business and loans to buy homes; health insurance, prescriptions drugs, housing that’s more affordable and accessible."

Biden’s vision is in sharp contrast to what minority communities run by Democrats for decades are experiencing. Gun violence, particularly among young black men, is at epidemic levels. Inflation is crippling their families, and high interest rates, driven by Biden’s economic policies, are making it nearly impossible for the low and middle classes to buy homes

and raise capital to start or grow a business. Democrat District attorneys have flat out said they won’t prosecute the majority of crimes in the inner cities where blacks and other minorities are affected the most. The millions of illegal immigrants the Biden administration has ushered into the nation’s metropolitan areas have squeezed citizens for jobs and services. In New York City, Mayor Adams said taxpayers will be on the hook for upwards of $12 billion over the next two years to pay for the migrant crisis he says will “destroy” the city. Gov. Kathy Hochul has already sapped a billion from working New York

it appears minority voters are leaning toward the Republican Party in the race for the White House in 2024.

More than 30 million immigrants are in the country, both legal and illegal, and the Democrats likely see the possibility that illegal immigrants could offset the loss of black and Hispanic voters.

This political point was not lost on Congressman Ralph Norman.

“Biden and Democrats WANT illegal immigration and lots of it,” said Norman, a South Carolina Republican.

Norman believes Democrats encourage illegal immigration, “to prevent losing Democrats seats in the House of Representatives. That’s because people are moving away from liberal (strongholds) because of the way local Democrats have so poorly mismanaged those cities.”

He add, “While some states and municipalities do allow illegal immigrants to vote in local and state elections, that is not (yet) the case in federal elections. But YOU BETTER BELIEVE that’s a goal of the left.”

families to pay for Biden’s aliens and budgeted $2 billion more for this year.

Former President Trump, Biden’s challenger in the November election, famously appealed to black voters stating, “You’re living in poverty, your schools are no good, you have no jobs, 58% of your youth is unemployed. What the hell do you have to lose?” Employment figures for minorities under the four years of the 45th president were the best in history, and noncollegeeducated workers were nailing down the highest wages ever. With the economy sagging under Bidenomics, even the smallest gains by weekly wage workers are eaten up by the record inflation.

A recent report by New York Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli detailed a “frightening” rate of child poverty among Empire State families.

Biden boasted in his Morehouse speech that he would ignore a Supreme Court ruling that prohibited him from waiving student loans for college graduates, a pledge that may have appealed to his university audience but does not go over well with less educated workers who will be asked to foot the $300 billion bill his generosity will bring.

Biden went on to ask: “What is democracy if we can’t stop wars that break out and break our hearts?” With blacks and minorities making up a large percentage of enlisted service members, the wars breaking out in Ukraine and Gaza under his watch, and adversaries such as China and North Korea rattling their sabers draw concern among the very people he is looking to impress. At his campaign appearances, Trump notes that no wars started during his four years in office, and he castigates his rival for bailing out of Afghanistan, leaving the Bagram Air Base and billions of dollars in military equipment to the communists.

“When I sit behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, in front of the fireplace across from my desk, I have two busts: one of Dr. King and one of Bobby Kennedy,” Biden opined. “I often find myself looking at those busts and making decisions. I ask myself: Are we living up to what we say we are as a nation, to end racism and poverty, to deliver jobs and justice, to restore our leadership in the world?” Based on his record as president, vice president, and nearly 50 years as a Senator, he’s not even close.

New Mexico, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Photo Credit: White House President Biden at Morehouse College

Photo Credit: Kkistl01 | Dreamstime.com

Congress passed a law blocking illegals from voting in Washington D.C.

ByDeborahWilliams

Almost $151 billion.

Budget-Busting Border Crisis Costs Taxpayers Billions

That’s how much the border crisis costs our country according to newly released data from the House Budget Committee.

The cost of “President Biden’s failed border policies” was highlighted by the House Budget Committee in their recent “The Cost of the Border Crisis” hearing.

The Congressional hearing showcased the importance of border security and the real costs to already overburdened state and local governments.

Nearly 250,000 illegal immigrant encounters were reported in April 2024 alone, reports Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

This brings the total encounters with illegal aliens to nearly two million for the fiscal year. The total amount of encounters with illegal aliens since President Biden took office: six million.

This does not include nearly 1.6

million “gotaways” - people who evaded CBP.

All of this comes at an enormous cost to taxpayers in real dollars$150.7 billion and counting reported the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR).

Illegal immigration is a threat to vital US interests and US pocketbooks. Newsweek reported that “the $150.7 billion spent on illegal immigration last year is more than the total gross domestic product (GDP)” of three states.

“The greatest national security threat to the American people is posed by these open borders, said Chairman of the House Budget Committee, Jodey Arrington (R-TX).

“The lion's share of that cost is borne by state and local governments. State and local governments can't borrow or print money like the federal government, so they have to balance their budgets by either absorbing this cost through raising taxes or they have to cut services to their citizens”.

A recent study by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) found that each illegal alien or their US-born child costs the United States $8,776 annually.

“The Biden administration has misplaced priorities,” said Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI).

“Does anyone here want to guess how much we've spent on homeless veterans in 2023? Anybody want to guess? $66 billion on illegals and $3 billion on people who have laid down their lives for this country.”

Rep. Tom McClintock (RCA) added, “Opposition to illegal immigration is not opposition to legal immigration. In fact, the people I find who are the angriest about illegal immigration are the legal immigrants who have played by the rules, waited patiently in line, and are now watching millions of illegal migrants cut in line in front of them.”

Illegal immigration and control of the border generally is a significant topic for voters in 2024. A recent Gallup poll showed that “it was the

first time immigration has been the single most important problem (for voters) since 2019.”

“The government” ranked as the number one issue for the previous year.

Illegal immigration took the lead as the most problematic issue for voters rising to 28% from 20%. Many voters see illegal immigration as a “critical threat.''

According to the Gallup poll 55%

of US adults say that “large numbers of immigrants entering the United States illegally” is a critical threat to America's vital interests.

“All Americans are paying the price for Biden’s radical policies, and we exposed their true cost,” the Committee concluded. “The cost burden on the American taxpayer is in addition to the failed economic policies of this Administration.”

Suffolk County Taxpayers on The Hook for Student Loan Debt

ByDeborahWilliams

Taxpayers in Suffolk County and across the country will be on the hook to pay off another $7.7 billion in new student loan debt, and President Biden ordered the Treasury Department to forgive the loans of 160,000 college graduates.

To date, President Biden’s debt transfer programs impact 10% of all student loan borrowers and subsequently passes on the debt to everyday working Americans, including all in Suffolk County.

Biden’s original plan, blocked by the Supreme Court, planned to spend $430 billion to write off student loan debt for 30 million people.

These write-offs transfer the debt to other taxpayers – many of whom paid off their loans and many more who never went to college at all going straight into the workforce or perhaps going into the trades or opening their own business.

President Biden pitched his plan as a modification of existing rules and claimed the expenditure did not require Congressional approval. Chief Justice Roberts said in a written opinion that using the descriptor “modification” was “true only in the same sense that the French Revolution ‘modified’ the status of the French nobility.”

After being blocked by the Supreme

Court, the Biden administration announced that it would seek alternative ways to achieve debt cancellation by adjusting repayment rules within existing programs. It is expected that many of these efforts will be challenged in court. Critics argue that Biden's student loan debt forgiveness plan primarily benefits the upper-class students.

The Urban Institute reports that the top 25% of households hold nearly half of all student loan debt, with 40% of the debt being held by students with advanced degrees such as lawyers and doctors.

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the No Bailouts for Campus Criminals Act out of fears that taxpayers could be forced by the Biden administration to shoulder the student loan debt of violent antiSemitic campus protestors that have been wreaking havoc for months on campuses across the country.

The proposed bill by Senator Cotton would prevent any student who is convicted of any offense while protesting at a higher education institution from having their federal student loans forgiven or modified.

Many find the transfer of student debt to other taxpayers immoral or simply bad policy. Common refrains from critics are, “You took the loan, you pay the loan back.”

"Debt forgiveness is not fair, but

more importantly, it is bad policy. The policy is pure political opportunism that is destined to worsen the situation”, says Rebecca Neumann, professor of economics at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Critics including the New Civil Liberties Alliance argue that the taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the bill for other people’s choices to attend college and that institutions should be on the hook for unpaid student loans. They have challenged Biden’s debt transfer plan in court.

Biden Bends Knee to Iran

ByDeborahWilliams

Bowing to pressure from Russia, China, and Algeria, the United States and other United Nations representatives stood for a moment of silence for President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran, known as the "Butcher of Tehran" who was recently killed in a helicopter crash.

Raisi came to prominence during the Iranian Revolution, as the deputy prosecutor of Tehran in the 1980’s. He ordered the executions of thousands of political prisoners, many of whom were also secretly held during the revolutionary purge, tortured, and hanged publicly from cranes to instill fear in the civilian population.

Amnesty International says that to this day the location of the bodies is concealed by the Iranian government.

In this context, the United States Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations, Robert Wood, stood in a moment of silence for the Butcher of Tehran.

In a statement that does not mention Iran’s role in the October 7th attacks on Israel and the taking of hostages, some of whom are American, the Biden administration sent condolences to Iran.

The State Department released a statement saying, "The United States expresses its official condolences for the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi… in a helicopter

crash in northwest Iran. As Iran selects a new president, we reaffirm our support for the Iranian people and their struggle for human rights and fundamental freedoms."

State Department officials tried to put their actions at the U.N. and condolences in the context of “regretting the loss of any life.”

"Some of the worst human rights abuses occurred during his tenure as president, especially the human rights abuses against the women and girls of Iran," State Department spokesperson Matt Miller said, but qualified.

"That said, we regret any loss of life. We don’t want to see anyone die in a helicopter crash. But that doesn’t change the reality of his record, both as a judge and as the president of Iran."

Israel reacted harshly to these moves by the Biden administration and the U.N.

Israeli U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan said the United Nations "bowed its head for a man responsible for massacring and murdering thousands in Iran, in Israel, and around the globe. What’s next? Will the Council dedicate a moment of silence to commemorate Hitler?"

House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY) was just as harsh in her criticism.

"Biden’s State Department expressing condolences for the

The latest $7.7 billion move by Biden brings the total number of people to benefit from his debt transfer push to 4.75 million. The total student debt transfer approved by the Biden administration is $167 billion.

death of a brutal and monstrous enemy of America who tortured and killed his people and led the charge to fund terrorist proxies around the world that have killed American soldiers is a new low for Joe Biden," Stefanik said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

"Sec. Blinken’s weak leadership and eagerness to appease the hostile Iranian regime reflects Biden’s policy of rolling over for our nation's adversaries. It is unacceptable, unnecessary, and outrageous for the State Department to issue condolences for the death of an enemy."

Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., wrote on X:

"The United States SHOULD NOT be sending condolences. The world is a safer place WITHOUT him. Ebrahim Raisi was known as the ‘Butcher of Tehran’ for a REASON. He was an evil tyrant who persecuted & killed thousands of innocent Iranians & was a protégé of the Ayatollah himself,” added Rep. Donalds.

During a congressional hearing questioning Secretary Antony Blinken, Senator Jon Barrasso (RWY) had a sharp exchange with Blinken saying, “I think it's shocking that this administration would mourn the death of the “Butcher of Tehran.” He's responsible for death, rape, torture, the sworn enemy of the free world. So I think it's a terrible mistake, Mr. Secretary."

Photo Credit: Arrington.House.gov

Photo Credit: @JoeBiden on Twitter

Congressman Jodey Arrington at the US/Mexico Border

President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris

ByDeborahWilliams

Trump Trial Wraps Up

The State of New York vs. Donald J. Trump trial that began against the former president six weeks ago is expected to wrap up this week. Closing arguments kicked off the Tuesday after Memorial Day. A verdict could even come down this week.

Judge Juan Manuel Merchan sent the jury home for a week and will reconvene after Memorial Day. There were questions about why closing arguments and deliberations did not immediately follow the case resting. Whatever the reason, court goes into full gear again this week.

The Biden administration and all too willing prosecutors are attempting to literally and figuratively handcuff president Trump to a desk in a Manhattan courtroom.

While the nation watches whether or not a former President will be found guilty and sentenced to time behind bars, Democrats have joked about the trial, made light of President Trump being forced to stay in New York City all week, or remarked on his potential prison surroundings.

On the campaign trail, President Biden jokingly offered a midweek date for a presidential debate.

“I hear you’re free on Wednesdays,” said Biden, knowing Trump’s New York trial was off on Wednesdays.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams boasted that the Big Apple prison where Trump may go will be ready to accommodate a former commander

The most common question that I receive from veterans and families of veterans is, “How can I get a copy of the DD214?”

The DD form 214, is the certificate of release or discharge from military service. This form was first issued in 1950, replacing the older “WD AGO” (War Department Adjutant General’s Office) forms and the ‘NAVPERS” (Naval Personnel) discharge documents. These documents existed since 1941. DD214 Form is the completed history of military service, including time served, MOS, Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) highest rank, length of service, type of discharge, and list of medals awarded.

This is a very important form for veterans and their families, as it is needed to obtain the veteran's benefits. If you have this form, I strongly suggest that you make copies of it and attach a copy to your will and your wife’s will. Attach a copy to your employment application, as that may add your service time to your retirement pension. It is also needed to join

Verdict

in chief.

“Prepared for whatever comes on Rikers Island,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

After Trump's rally in the Bronx, which drew nearly 25,000 people when only 3,500 were expected, Democrats were alarmed by the support for president Trump.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul referred to Trump supporters as "clowns" in her own "basket of deplorables" moment, reminiscent of Hillary Clinton also denigrating Trump supporters.

Hochul said in a pre-Bronx rally interview with CNN, “I’ll tell you what won’t make a difference at all, Jake, and that’s for Donald Trump to be a ringleader and invite all his clowns to a place like the Bronx.”

Hochul, a lawyer herself, showed no concern about the threat to

democracy posed by using the courts to hinder a presidential candidate right in her own backyard, even as media outlets and attorneys expressed concern about the merits of the case. Meanwhile, those who respect

the Constitution are calling this trial out for what it is. And for many, the Trump trial has eroded their faith in the justice system.

“This is all orchestrated. This comes from President Biden. This all comes from the White House. All these indictments come from the White House to put pressure on President Trump,” said Alabama United States Senator Tommy Tuberville on Fox Business.

Deadly Force Authorized in Trump Raid

ByRobertChartuk

The 30 heavily armed FBI agents who raided former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate were authorized to use deadly force, according to recently released records, and had a trauma team embedded with maps to the nearest hospital.

Authorized by Attorney General Merrick Garland, the tactical team was after documents Trump took with him when he left office in 2021. Lawyers for the former chief executive had been in discussion with the National Archives to turn over the material and argued that the raid on Trump’s Florida home was completely unnecessary. They suggested that the documents contain information that would incriminate Biden and his associates in various crimes and that the show of force is part of a White House strategy to hamper Trump’s campaign to take back the Oval Office.

The Justice Department said deploying armed agents prepared for bloodshed is “standard operating

procedure” for paperwork acquisition, an explanation Trump advocates reject since this was the first time in U.S. history a former president’s home was raided by government forces sent by a political opponent. Trump, who was supposed to be home at the time but was delayed, enjoys Secret Service protection, along with his family. It is unclear if the raid was coordinated with his security team and how they would have reacted if the weapons carried by the FBI forces had been fired.

The public seems to side with Trump since his poll numbers go up each time a federal official or Democrat prosecutor marshaled by Biden goes after his Republican rival. The Mar-a-Lago documents case is on thin ice as the Florida judge overseeing the trial ordered hearings on how the special prosecutor appointed by Biden handled the evidence seized from the estate. After the armed agents swept through the estate, having ransacked former First Lady Melania Trump’s quarters and the bedroom of their son, Baron, the

FBI displayed boxes of evidence to the press that had apparently been tampered with. The hearings before federal Judge Aileen Cannon will also examine defense allegations that some of the seized documents are missing.

The treatment of Trump, who as president can access any documents he sees fit, is vastly different than that of Biden, who was found to have classified material he obtained as vice president, a position that does not give him authority to possess such documents. When Biden’s lawyers realized he had secret government records in his garage and other locations, such as the Communist China-funded Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement, they arranged for the Justice Department to come pick them up.

Trump characterizes the documents imbroglio and the other Biden-coordinated cases as “election interference,” one of the charges against him in Georgia, where the Fulton County district attorney accuses him of interfering with the 2020 contest.

Why You Need Your Form DD214

veteran’s organization and obtain medical, and educational home loans from the VA.

EDUCATIONAL: The veteran can earn assistance paying for traditional degrees, on-the-job training, certification licensing, apprenticeship, and other educational opportunities.

HEALTHCARE: Open to most veterans especially if you enlisted after September 7, 1980, or started active duty after October 16, 1981, and served at least 24 consecutive months. The VA health includes complete health care. It also helps cover burial or cremation for you and your spouse. It can also help cover the cost of the headstone and flag even if you do not go to a National Veterans cemetery.

HOUSING: The VA has many programs in place to help secure home loans along with other housing benefits. If you are a disabled veteran, you may qualify for benefits that make your home easier for you to live in, such as wheelchair ramps.

As a veteran, you should consider joining a veteran organization such

as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, or AMVETs. These organizations not only offer fellowship and social gatherings with other veterans but also help if you have veteran questions or problems. They can also keep you updated on new information regarding veteran care and benefits.

In addition, they also can inform you of different businesses that offer veteran discounts in your area saving you lots of money. They are also the ones who fight for us to the help we need from the government. For example, it was the American Legion that got us the GI bill. They also require a copy of the DD214 form to become a member.

If you do not have your copy of the DD214 form you can obtain a free copy from the National Personnel Records Center (the government agency tasked with replacing lost and destroyed DD Form 214s upon request from a veteran). Requested copies are mailed from the Military Personnel Records Center. The easiest way to obtain a copy is to go online and request a copy of the Department of Defense Standard Form 180 (“SF180”). Fill it out and

BY REV. FREDERICK MILLER, PH.D.

Photo Credit: Virginia Department of Human Resource Management Sample DD214 Form

Photo Credit:

could be reached in Trump trial this week.

HISTORY LESSONS

BY RICHARD ACRITELLI

Memorial Day was originally established as “Decoration Day” by General John A. Logan and other Union veterans of the Civil War on May 30th, 1868. Three years after the fall of Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia and the remaining Confederate forces, the war was always a dark reminder over the brutality of this conflict that tore America apart for four years.

These veterans experienced the horrors of the incessant fighting that ranged from the outskirts of Washington, D.C., through the destruction of major cities, towns, resources, and the displacement of civilians. The war was a deadly contest between the North and South that grew from minor skirmishes like the Battle of Philippi that was the first battle on June 3rd, 1861. This opening battle of the war saw General George B. McClellan ordered 3,000 soldiers from the Department of Ohio to advance into Western Virginia. It was McClellan’s goal to protect the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad lines and to possibly open a path to Richmond, Virginia,

where this state just seceded from the Union. There were 800 Confederate soldiers that were poorly trained, organized, and they retreated once the Union artillery fired at their position. This minor engagement presented the reality that there were no peaceful measures to unify this country.

The fighting became a horrific endeavor by the North and South that had immense casualties through the major battles of Gettysburg: 51,116, Seven Days: 36,463, Chickamauga: 34,624, Chancellorsville: 29,609, and Antietam: 22,726. Grant scored impressive victories at Fort Henry and gained the Unconditional Surrender of Confederate General from his good friend Simon Bolivar Buckner at Fort Donelson on February 16th, 1862. On April 7th, 1862, Grant was surprised by the Confederate attack at Shiloh, Tennessee. While Grant achieved victory at Shiloh, at some points, it was possible to walk across the battlefield on dead bodies without touching the ground. There were 23,760

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

The short answer is no, New York State law does not give legal status based on the length of the relationship. As the rise of the “unmarried couple” continues, so does the need for unique estate planning for this modern family dynamic. Estate planning for long-term partnerships is just as important, if not more so, than for married couples. Many traditional rights or benefits having to do with health care, taxes, and inheritance do not apply to an unmarried couple. It is therefore imperative to properly plan for these scenarios.

Under New York’s Family Health Care Decisions Act (FHCDA), a family member, close friend or domestic partner, can make health care decisions for you if you are in a facility and unable to do so yourself. However, there is an order of priority as to whom can make these decisions, a close friend or domestic partner being last on the list. Because many couples prefer

"The War Is Over — The Rebels Are Our Countrymen Again"

General Ulysses S. Grant, Appomattox Court House, April 9th, 1865

casualties between both sides and Shiloh proved to Grant that this war would not be easily won. A week later, there was the smaller engagement of Pinal County, Arizona, as 23 soldiers engaged each other with 11 casualties. The Civil War proved that it would be fought within the farthest parts of this nation and there were both small and massive engagements that

produced American casualties.

Lincoln demanded his general’s continually fight the South to crush this rebellion. But when Lee was at his most vulnerable after Antietam and Gettysburg, both Generals McClellan and George Meade allowed the Army of Northern Virginia to retreat back toward their supply lines in Virginia. During the Battle of the Wilderness, there

were heart-wrenching moments that saw Union soldiers write out their names and addresses and pin them onto their uniforms so they’re bodies could be identified for their families. Atlanta was burnt to the ground and South Carolina was devastated from the fighting. There were mixed loyalties as General George Thomas was a Virginian who was a devoted leader for the Union who won the Battle of Nashville. General John Pemberton from Pennsylvania commanded the Confederate guns overlooking the Mississippi River, and he was defeated by Grant on July 4th, 1863.

At Appomattox, as the Confederates were surrendering, they lacked food and were promised rations by Grant. “With Malice towards None,” were the words of a physically exhausted Lincoln who did not want hangings, but a restored peace between the states. May we always honor the establishment of “Decoration Day" to recall the nearly one million killed Americans from the ferocity of the Civil War.

Estate Planning for the Unmarried Couple

their partner to be the primary decision maker in the event of incapacity, executing a Health Care Proxy naming the partner as agent will override this law and allow the partner to be empowered to make health care decisions.

Another consideration is probate at death. Even with a last will and testament, when a person dies with assets in their sole name, the nominated executor must file a probate petition with the Surrogate’s Court before having the authority to act. Notice of probate is given to the decedent’s next-ofkin, even if they are not included as beneficiaries in the Will. Under this scenario, consideration should be given to who the nextof-kin are; we all have them. For example, if the Will gives all assets to the unmarried partner and the decedent also has two children, the children will be sent a notice of probate and are given the opportunity to contest the Will. If there is a concern that the nextof-kin will object to the partner

inheriting, using probate avoidance tactics, including trusts, will greatly benefit the surviving partner.

The result is even worse if the intention is for assets to go to the partner and someone dies without a Will. In that case, New York

has default laws of intestacy, as governed under the New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL), which dictate what happens to the distribution and inheritance of assets. In that case, if a decedent is survived by their long-term partner and 3 siblings,

all assets will pass to the decedent’s siblings and the partner will be left out completely. Proper planning can ensure the intended beneficiary receives the assets.

These are just some of the many reasons why having an estate plan matters. The plan should take into account the assets that you have and the relationships between you, your family members, and all other beneficiaries of your estate, especially if it is a partner. It is important to meet with an estate planning attorney to discuss your specific goals and come up with a creative way to accomplish those goals by using the right estate planning tools that will produce the best outcome.

Michal Lipshitz, Esq. is an attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning and Elder Law. 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.

Photo Credit: battlefields.org

Ulysses S. Grant

Photo Credit: Ilia Burdun | Dreamstime.com

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN

TRUST, SERIES 2005NC1 ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, v. LILLIE EVERETTE A/K/A LILLIE M. EVERETTE, 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 February 15, 2024, I, Giuseppe Rosini, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on June 03, 2024 at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, at 11:30AM the premises described as follows:

373 Smith Road Shirley, NY 11967

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-25

Plaintiff, Against JAMES P. WALSH; STEPHANIE M. WALSH; ET AL;

Defendant(s)

PLEASANT CEMETERY ASSOCIATION will be held at the offices of the Association at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, 1 Old Cemetery Road, Montauk Highway, Center Moriches, New York 11934 at 3:00 P.M. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024

1. to elect, in accordance with the Bylaws of the Association, trustees to the Board to fill vacancies that will be created by the expiration of the term of the class of trustees whose term expires at the 2024 annual meeting; and 2. to transact such other business as may properly come before the annual meeting of lot owners.

By Order of the Board of Trustees

Mount Pleasant Cemetery Association

CANCELED

SBL No.: 0200-879.0001.00-009.000

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

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 619242/2019 in the amount of $389,568.88 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

L15899-5/1/2024,5/8/2024, 5/15/2024&5/22/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/16/2021, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 6/10/2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 27 Pineway Avenue, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, 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 970.00 Block 02.00 Lot 012.000 And 013.000.

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $469,411.27 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604429/2019 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee.

SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Dated: 3/28/2024 File Number: 35262 CA

L15919-5/8/2024,5/15/2024, 5/22/2024&5/29/2024

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Annual Meeting of Lot Owners of MOUNT

L15921 - 5/15/2024, 5/22/2024, 5/29/2024 & 6/5/2024

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ACTING THROUGH THE FARMERS HOME ADMINISTRATION, UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Plaintiff, -against- ANTHONY OCASIO AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF MARY D. OCASIO; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MARY D. OCASIO, if living, and if he/she be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands,

widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; JOHN B. WINGATE, HIS SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS, AS COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF SUFFOLK COUNTY; THE NEW YORK STATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION, A PUBLIC BENEFIT CORPORATION, CREATED AND EXISTING AS A SUBSIDIARY OF THE NEW YORK STATE HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY; TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN; STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN ;and JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE #1 through #7, the last seven (7) names being fictitious and unknown to the Plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, Defendants. INDEX # 603319/2022 Original filed with Clerk February 23, 2022. Plaintiff Designates Suffolk County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated Suffolk County. Premises: 39 Moriches Middle Island Road, Shirley, NY 11967. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); the United States of America may appear or answer within 60 day of service hereof; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be

taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. This supplemental summons and amended complaint are being filed pursuant to court order dated March 29, 2024. 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 AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Uniondale, New York April 24, 2024. Respectfully submitted, Pincus Law Group, PLLC. By: Jennifer L. Neuner, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff, 425 RXR Plaza Uniondale, NY 11556, 516-699-8902

L15925 - 5/15/2024, 5/22/2024, 5/29/2024 & 6/5/2024

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

NEWREZ LLC

D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, -against- ADRIAN R. STASKY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF THERESA STASKY; DEIDRE PABISZ AKA DEIDRE C. CARMICHAEL AKA DEIDRE LAWTON AKA DEIDRE STASKY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF THERESA STASKY; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THERESA STASKY, if living, and if he/she be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included

in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, and JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE #1 through #7, the last seven (7) names being fictitious and unknown to the Plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the complaint, Defendants. INDEX # 615608/2023 Original filed with Clerk June 23, 2023. Plaintiff Designates Suffolk County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated Suffolk County. Premises: 4 Quail Rd Mastic Beach, NY 11951. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); the United States of America may appear or answer within 60 day of service hereof; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The supplemental summons and amended complaint

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

are being filed pursuant to the Re-settled Order dated April 30, 2024. 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 NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Uniondale, New York, May 10, 2024. Pincus Law Group, PLLC. By: Margaret Burke Tarab, Esq., Attorneys for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 516-699-8902

L15926 - 5/22/2024, 5/29/2024, 6/5/2024 & 6/12/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST

Sharon Klune a/k/a Sharon L. Klune; Brian Klune a/k/a Brian J. Klune; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 2, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Front steps of Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on June 21, 2024 at 9:00AM, premises known as 4 Laurel Crescent, a/k/a Laurel Cresent, Manorville, NY 11949. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Manorville, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of NY, District 0200 Section 510.00 Block 05.00 Lot 029.031.

Approximate amount of judgment $635,637.89 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 207406/2022. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District.

Jacob Turner, Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP

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

Dated: April 22, 2024

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

L15927 - 5/22/2024, 5/29/2024, 6/5/2024 & 6/12/2024

SUMMONS–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK – US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, -againstTHE UNKNOWN HEIRSAT- LAW, NEXT-OFKIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENT PAULA HIGGINS, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; BRIAN J. HIGGINS, BRENDAN J. HIGGINS, BRIAN J. HIGGINS, DEBORAH A. RUMFORD AND KORI A. DUNCAN, AS HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE DECEDENT PAULA HIGGINS; TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; THE CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC &

PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY; THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT); "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #10" inclusive, the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, DefendantsIndex No. 604561/2024 Plaintiff Designates Suffolk County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject premises is situated in Suffolk County. To the above named Defendants–YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff's attorneys within thirty days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated April 26, 2024. NOTICEYOU 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 the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY

AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Thomas F. Whelan, J.S.C. Dated: April 26, 2024 Filed: May 2, 2024. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 17 Nelson Place, Mastic, NY 11950. Dated: February 20, 2024 Filed: February 21, 2024 Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Karen B. Olson, Esq. 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591 Tel: (914) 3453020

L15929 - 5/29/2024, 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024 & 6/19/2024

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST CARL C. DAVIS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 25, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on July 2, 2024 at 11:00AM, premises known as 83 Smith Lane, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at West Yaphank, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200 Section 527.00 Block 03.00 Lot 015.000. Approximate amount of judgment $135,085.23 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #623013/2023. 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 23-002201 80736

L15930 - 5/29/2024, 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024 & 6/19/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, Plaintiff AGAINST

Aaron Ruff a/k/a Aaron G. Ruff, Individually and on behalf of the Estate of Millinee Thomas; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 15, 2021 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on June 27, 2024 at 9:30AM, premises known as 108 Wilson Avenue, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Middle Island in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of NY, District 0200 Section 497.00 Block 02.00 Lot 006.000. Approximate amount of judgment $328,134.19 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 612283/2015. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 10th Judicial District.

Brian Egan, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

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

Dated: May 7, 2024

L15931-5/29/2024,6/5/2024, 6/12/2024&6/19/2024

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, -against- ADRIAN R. STASKY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF THERESA STASKY; DEIDRE PABISZ AKA

DEIDRE C. CARMICHAEL AKA DEIDRE LAWTON

AKA DEIDRE STASKY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF THERESA STASKY; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THERESA STASKY, if living, and if he/she be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, and JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE #1 through #7, the last seven (7) names being fictitious and unknown to the Plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the complaint, Defendants. INDEX # 615608/2023 Original filed with Clerk June 23, 2023. Plaintiff Designates Suffolk County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated Suffolk County. Premises: 4 Quail Rd Mastic Beach, NY 11951. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within

30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); the United States of America may appear or answer within 60 day of service hereof; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The supplemental summons and amended complaint are being filed pursuant to the Re-settled Order dated April 30, 2024. 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 NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Uniondale, New York, May 10, 2024. Pincus Law Group, PLLC. By: Margaret Burke Tarab, Esq., Attorneys for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 516-699-8902

L15932 - 5/29/2024, 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024 & 6/19/2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that acquisitions have been proposed and contracts prepared under the New Suffolk County ¼%

Drinking Water Protection Program-Open SpacePayGo as follows:

SITE

Pine Lake Addition

TAX MAP NO.

0204-003.00-01.00-032.000

0204-003.00-01.00-037.000

OWNER

Adam Flood

Copies of the proposed contracts can be seen at the office of the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning, Division of Real Property Acquisition and Management, H. Lee Dennison Building, 2nd Floor, Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge, New York. The undersigned will hold a final public hearing of these acquisitions, pursuant to Section 247 of the N.Y.S. General Municipal Law, at the Division of Real Property Acquisition and Management on the 6th day of June, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.,

at which time all interested persons will be heard.

Michael Brown Acquisition Unit Supervisor Dated: May 23, 2024 Hauppauge, N.Y.

L15933-5/29/2024

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR RASC 2006-KS3, -against-

KEVIN T. FARRELL, ET AL.

NOTICE 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 April 17, 2024, wherein U.S BANK NATIONAL

ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR RASC 2006-KS3 is the Plaintiff and KEVIN T. FARRELL, 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 July 2, 2024 at 12:30PM, premises known as 61 SPAR DR, MASTIC BEACH, NY 11951; and the following tax map identification: 0200-975.0009.00-021.000 F/K/A 0209-013.00-03.00-021.000 F/K/A 0200-975.00-03.00021.000.

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, AT MASTIC, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 028750/2012. Michael Clancy, Esq. - Referee. The Referee does not accept cash and only accepts bank checks or certified checks made payable to Michael T. Clancy, as 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.

L15934 - 5/29/2024, 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024 & 6/19/2024

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BY TOM BARTON

The term "Game 7" in sports is probably the best two words that a true fan can hear. Even if you are not a fan of the teams themselves, there is just something magical about the idea that your whole season comes down to one game. Two evenly matched teams go headto-head for all the marbles. But, for a sports bettor it can be maddening or very profitable, depending on which angles you follow.

It doesn't take a genius to understand that Game 7's will always favor the home team. They are the better regular season team, which is why they have the final game on their home court, ice or whatever. People love the underdogs though, they probably shouldn't in these spots. The home team is hitting almost 75% over the past 50 NBA Game 7 scenarios.

Game 7...the Best Words in Sports and Sports Betting

While that might not shock many people, the against the numbers cover rate probably will. The team with home

court advantage is hitting 60% against the spread on the final playoff home game. What's even more reassuring for home

team bettors is the spread has been on average more than two baskets. These are sizeable lines with a very long history of

SPORTS Suffolk's New Girls Lacrosse Champs

ByTomBarton

Both the Sayville girls lacrosse team and the Ward Melville girls lacrosse teams can now call themselves champions after winning their division championships.

The Sayville girls dominated all year long and their 18-0 perfect season was culminated with a 7-6 win over the second seeded Bayport-Blue Point. Bayport-Blue Point tried to mount a furious comeback with 4 goals in the 4th quarter but Sayville's defense was able to hold on and earn the title, and a perfect season.

McNamara led the team with two goals apiece, while Sophia Buffardi, Sofia Cangelosi, and Jenna Messina all chipped in one goal each.

The #1 seed Ward Melville also won their championship game against 3rd ranked Northport by a score of 8-4. This one was never really in doubt as they led for nearly a half hour of game time to claim the title. Leading the charge for Ward Melville was Grace Mulham with two goals and an assist. Aliya Leonard came up big late in the game with two late goals to seal the victory, while Mia Pirozzi and Kate Spinks each had

covering.

It's much the same in the NHL where there have been just under 200 NHL Game 7's in playoff history, while 17 of those have come as a game 7 in the Stanley Cup Finals. The numbers might not be as pronounced as the NBA side of things, but there is another angle for ice bettors. That is the Game 7 under. The Under in Game 7 in the NHL playoffs have been hitting at a near 65% clip since keeping track.

So, while we might not get a Game 7 in the NBA or NHL playoff games this year, fans and bettors alike hope that we do. The fans will enjoy the energy and fever of a Game 7 atmosphere, but bettors know they have a pretty a good angle to make some money as well.

a goal and an assist.

This is Ward Melville's first county title since 2007. The

Patriots will now face off in the Long Island championship this Saturday at Longwood High School.

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

Olivia Desimone and Dylan

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Ward Melville Girls Lacrosse Team

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Sayville Girls Lacrosse Team

ByStefanMychajliw

The South Shore Press congratulates Sachem East girls softball pitcher Olivia DeRose,

senior who not only picked up a big win in the Suffolk County Championship game but notched the 500th strikeout of her high school career.

Sachem East Pitcher Crowned Queen of the

Photo Credit: Facebook.com

Suffolk County Legislator Anthony Piccirillo congratulated DeRose on her 500th "K"

SPORTS Suffolk County Wrestler Wins Big in the Ring in Vegas

ByStefanMychajliw

South Country School Central District eighth-grade wrestler

Camryn Howard, who recently took first place in the 68 kg freestyle tournament, outscoring his opponents 54-9 at the U.S. Open Wrestling Championships in Las Vegas.

The tournament serves as an age group qualifier for the right to represent the United States at the world-level competition.

Howard finished with a 5-0 record and will be Team USA's representative in 68 kg at the UWW

Pan-American Championships in June.

He competed in the Greco-

Roman tournament, as well, where he compiled a 4-1 record and second-place finish. Howard also

holds All-County and All-State titles, which he first earned as a seventh grader.

The Panthers Roar to a Title

ByTomBarton

The Miller Place Panthers defeated Islip, 4-1, for the Suffolk County Class A County Championship this weekend.

The Panthers won their first title since 2021, a championship that star pitcher Ava Zicchinelli was a part of. This time Zicchinelli was front and center for the Panthers and delivered the win.

Zicchinelli held Islip to only four hits and no earned runs. She added seven strikeouts in her complete game effort. It wasn't just on the mound as she went 2 for 3 with a run scored as well. The big blow came early in the game as Emily Lopez hit a two run home run

Aiello Leads Bayport-Blue Point to the Title

ByTomBarton

The Bayport-Blue Point boys lacrosse team are your Class C champions.

The boys beat ShorehamWading River by a 9-8 final score. Dan Aiello scored the deciding and game-winning goal with under 2 minutes left in the game to seal the victory. Aiello had a huge day with 3 goals and 1 assist to lead the way. But, it was hardly a one man show. Ben Morris added 1 goal and 2 assists, Maclin Keyser had 2 goals and 1 assist, Mikey Luce had a goal and an assist while Connor Curran and Ryan Hannaford chipped in 1

goal apiece. #1 seeded Bayport-Blue Point finished the season 17-1 overall and 14-1 in the division. They now move on to the Long Island Championship this week against the Nassau Class C champions.

Sachem Softball Reigns Supreme

ByTomBarton

Olivia DeRose has pitched to a championship level all season long, and this weekend she led Sachem East to the Class AAA Section XI Softball Championship.

DeRose pitched a four hitter in the victory and also struck out her 500th batter along the way. North Babylon tried to mount a comeback

late in the game and DeRose thrived under the pressure. North Babylon put the first two batters on base and when DeRose peered in she bore down. She struck out the next batter in overwhelming fashion and then got out of the jam and out of the game with the W.

With the win, Sachem East are crowned champions for the first

to give Miller Place the lead and Brooke Borkowski gunned down a runner at the plate to keep them in front.

and split the season series to make them champions.

Make It 4 in a Row for Commack

ByTomBarton

Winning championships has become a trend for the Commack Cougars. The Cougars already have a three-peat, after winning last season, and now they can say they are a four-peat champion. Commack earned that title by beating Sachem North, 2-1, this weekend.

county title in program history, ending the season with a 19-4 record. They will now face off for the Long Island Championship game this Friday.

Their star pitcher shined as bright as he ever has in a complete game masterpiece. Righty Evan Kay has been stellar all season and capped off the historical year with one of the best games of his career. Evan Kay is known as one of the best pitchers in Suffolk County history and putting a final championship on that resume is just a cherry on top. Kay is the defending Suffolk Pitcher of the Year and might have had an even better season this year. He has pitched 60 straight scoreless innings and finished with 4 wins and even threw in a save this season for good measure.

The Cougars ended the year 17-8 overall and now will face Farmingdale in the Long Island Championship.

Ward Melville Meets Real Hero's

ByTomBarton

With a playoff game on the horizon and a championship in their sights, the Ward Melville boys lacrosse program took time out of their practice schedule to visit some real heros. No, not their lacrosse idols, but rather they visited the Stony Brook Veterans Home. The boys spent the day at the home and devoted their time to meet with and enjoy the company of those that served. Ward Melville's head coach

Jay Negus said, the visit was “Truly a humbling experience,” and then said “Thank you for

your service gentleman. Ward Melville Lacrosse appreciates you!”

Miller Place finished the season as the #3 overall seed but beat Islip twice

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Miller Place Panthers Softball Team

Photo Credit: Axcess Baseball | Facebook Evan Kay Celebrates

Photo Credit: South Country Central School District Wrestler Camryn Howard wins big in Las Vegas

Bayport-Blue Point Lacrosse Team

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Sachem East Softball Team

Ward Melville Boys Lacrosse with Veterans

Photo Credit: @SectXISuffolk | X

SPORTS Half Hollow Hills Slays The Lion

ByTomBarton

All season long the Half Hollow Hills and Northport lacrosse teams were neck and neck in Suffolk's Class A standings, so it was only fitting that they would meet in the finals to finally determine who was the better team. Half Hollow Hills left no doubt or debate after taking home the title this week.

They weren't just facing a Northport team that went 14-1 in conference on the season, but they were seemingly fighting against history as well. Half Hollow Hills hadn't won a championship since

1962, despite having some very impressive teams over the years.

This game seemed like it was going to be another case of always a bridesmaid, never a bride situation but the Thunder ended any chance of that with a furious 3rd quarter run. They scored five times in the third and were able to hold on for a thrilling 9-8 win. They finally slayed the dragon, or in this case the Lions. Northport was looking for their 4th county championship and their imposing lineup gave Hills everything they could handle. They already spoiled their perfect season, so this was even more satisfying for

Commack's Duo Qualify for State Tournament

ByTomBarton

Commack's dynamic duo of James Yu and junior Eric Benderly just keep dominating the field and racking up championships. This time Yu and Benderly won the Section XI Doubles Championship.

They won a three-set match in the county semifinals against a good Westhampton duo, who were the runners up last season and then beat the #1 seeded Ward Melville duo 6-3, 7-6 to take home the title. They actually were down 5-2 in the second set but came storming back for the win.

the Thunder.

Perhaps the best player on the Island Anthony Raio led the

Dom Dominates as Player of the Year

ByTomBarton

Ever since his days at Sayville High School, Dominic LaFroscia has been a star and his star has continued to rise with this season's performance. The 2021 Sayville graduate had an absolutely incredible year for Suffolk Community College. LaFroscia was named the Region XV Player of the Year after putting up a .408/.502/.669 slash line for the Sharks. He also scored 65 runs, had 62 RBI and 6 home runs this past season. The numbers don't stop there. In just 51 games played, he had 69 hits and 24 doubles,

but he was also patient at the plate and was able to take 29 walks. Once he got on base, he was a problem for the opposing catchers as well with 28 steals in just 31 attempts.

Not only did LaFroscia win Player of the Year, but he also was named first team AllRegion and he made the AllTournament team. LaFroscia doesn't seem to have any holes in his game because he was able to secure a Gold Glove award on top of all of that as he led the Sharks to a 20-5 conference record.

Badminton's Championship Stays in the Family

Not to be outdone, the boys squad saw Niyanth Ponnusamy and Justin Roberts become County Champions in Boys Doubles.

After that, all eyes were on defending champion Rajveer Gujral. Gujral beat Smithtown East’s Ben Felber to secure his second consecutive County Champion in Boys Singles, and his teammate Brian Yun took 3rd place.

It has been nothing but awards for Gujral since he lost to his brother, Jaiveer, in the finals when he was just an eighth grader and a freshman. The championship trophy has now said the name Gujral on it for four straight years. His father was a national player in India and the great badminton traits certainly were handed down to both brothers.

With the win they now qualified for the state tournament.

Joe Filardi

for

Long Island's Defensive MVP

Although football season is a few months away, New Yorkers were treated to a great preview of the upcoming season this past week. The 2024 Rising Stars Bowl pits the best of New York City against the best of Long Island in a showcase of the best football talent of the junior class.

Of all that great talent, one name stood above the rest, Bellport's Trey'von Holland. Holland is a 6 foot, 230 pound linebacker that has been described as one of the best run stoppers in the state and one of it's hardest hitters. Holland won the Defensive MVP of the game award making everyone take notice for next season.

Holland was praised by the Bellport Football X account saying " (he) showcased his leadership, speed playing in the box and coverage for 4 quarters." Although NYC defeated the

Island 7-0, it was a great showcase for Holland.

Last season was a breakout year and this season he will have all eyes on him as his stock continues to soar. His stats read like something you would see on a Madden video game for the 2023 season. In just 9 games, he amassed 96 tackles, 63 of them being solo tackles, 6 tackles for a loss, 2 forced fumbles, 1 sack and even added a blocked punt. Holland also puts the work in for his school work with a 3.0 GPA.

The Rising Stars Bowl game was a preview of what is to come for this season and that should have every Bellport fan really excited to see Holland continue his rise to stardom. There is no doubt that he has already impressed the more than 20 college coaches from different universities that were in attendance, but we get to enjoy watching him on the Island for one more season.

ByTomBarton

Half Hollow Hills were handed several honors at the Suffolk County Championships for badminton this week.

Emilie Grand Pierre took 3rd place in Girls Singles while Neena Paulson and Allison Park also took 3rd place in Girls Doubles.

team with three goals, while Zach Marco and

both had two. Half Hollow Hills will now play

its first-ever Long Island championship when it faces Farmingdale Wednesday at Longwood.

This will be Yu’s third trip with his third different partner.

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | X James Yu and Eric Benderly

ByTomBarton

Dominic LaFroscia

Photo Credit: @F56062La_Dom | X

Photo Credit: @Treyvon58 | X Trey'von Holland

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Half Hollow Hills Lacrosse Team

Photo Credit: Half Hollow Hills Central School District | Facebook The Badminton Championship participants

SPORTS The Kings of Suffolk Baseball

ByTomBarton

The Kings Park Kingsmen are the Suffolk County Class A Baseball Champions.

The Kingmen completed a fantastic season by beating BayportBlue Point 7-1 in the finals. Kings Park was led by their ace Hunter Colagrande, who was dazzling all season long. With the win, Colagrande improved to 9-0 on the season and gave the Kingsmen their first title since 2001 and their seventh county title.

This wasn't only a dominant pitching performance as Kings Park had plenty of offensive help. Giuseppe Buffolino went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a run scored while Brandon Hauk, Anthony Lobasso and Dylan Frers each went 2-for-3 with an RBI.

Next up for Kings Park, who finished the regular season 21-2, they now take on the Nassau Class A champion in the Long Island championship game at the Middle Country Athletic Complex this weekend.

Jacobs Sprints past a Record

ByTomBarton

Port Jefferson’s Sophomore Alexa Jacobs set a new record when she won the 100 meter. Jacobs ran to a time of 11.88 breaking The Eddie Games 27-year-old record.

Jacobs, who also plays soccer, has been on fire this year, and really throughout her entire career. As a freshman, the Earl L. Vandermeulen High Schooler clinched the 100 meter title at the Suffolk Class C championships in 12.42 seconds. Then she one upped herself by winning the Division II state title in just 12.36 seconds. Athletic Director Adam Sherrard said, “That is

year. The bigger the moment, the faster she runs."

The Lions Stay Unbeaten

ByTomBarton

The best feel-good story of the year came

Schwindel Is a Star

ByTomBarton

The Long Island Ducks are still under .500, but their recent 6-4 run has them looking to get over the even mark soon. This week newly signed Frank Schwindel led the team and won their Player of the Week.

Schwindel led the team in batting average, with an incredible .500 avg, on base percentage, which was .577 and he also had the most hits of the week with

11. On the season, the former big leaguer's .360 average is good for 5th best in the Atlantic League and just a mere 5 points off the 2nd place mark. He also ranks inside the top ten in runs scored, home runs, RBI and he is top five in hits.

Along with Schwindel, winning Player of the Week, Justin Alintoff won Pitcher of the Week for the Ducks. Alintoff went five scoreless innings, allowing no walks while striking out three.

Baby Boy Barton on Board at the South Shore Press

senior coach Nicholas Meyer made the first basket of the game, with help from the Robotics Team. Meyer worked with the team and you can feel the whole school backing his tremendous basket.

That basket proved to be one of the key points in a close win over Miller Place 62-59. That kept the Lions undefeated on the season and this has been a season of records as they also set the mark for most points scored in a Unified basketball game with 72.

After the victory, the team celebrated their seniors Tyrell Bostick, Linda Matthews, Lindsey Zugel, and Ryan Young. The Lions have shown this season is a full team effort and a year with outstanding storylines but none bigger than the first basket to lead the team to their perfect record season.

Finnegan James Barton, was born on Friday, May 24th, 2024 at approximately 9:03 a.m.

ounces and came into the world at 19 and ¾ inches tall.

The newest edition of the South Shore Press sports team has arrived! Sports reporter Tom Barton and his wife Abby welcomed the newest edition to their growing family: Finnegan James Barton.

Baby Boy Barton was born on Friday, May 24th, 2024, at approximately 9:03 a.m. He tipped the scales at six pounds, 15

Once Finnegan is old enough to tackle opponents on the gridiron and swing for the fences on the T-ball diamond, he’ll be joining his ace father writing sports stories for the South Shore Press.

Congratulations to Tom and Abby Barton from the South Shore Press and all of Suffolk County.

how Alexa has been running all

The Longwood Unified Basketball team ended their remarkable season this week and

the stories to go along with this team have been captivating.

in the final game when

Photo Credit: Longwood Central School District | Facebook

The Longwood Lions Unified Basketball Team

Alexa Jacobs

Photo Credit: @CoachSalvaa | X

Kings Park Baseball Team

Photo Credit: Axcess Baseball | Facebook

Photo Credit: @LIDucks | X Frank Schwindel

ByStefanMychajliw

Photo Credit: Axcess Baseball | Facebook

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook