The South Shore Press 6/05/24

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Senator Dean Murray

MANHATTAN DA ALVIN BRAGG WATCHING HIS HANDIWORK AS DONALD TRUMP AND HIS LEAD ATTORNEY TODD BLANCHE LISTEN TO MATTHEW COLANGELO PROSECUTE THE FORMER PRESIDENT WITH JUDGE JUAN MERCHAN PRESIDING

Photo Credit: South Shore Press

From the

BY STEFAN MYCHAJLIW

I distinctly remember calling my brother Dan with glee on December 19th, 1998. That was the day the House of Representatives impeached former President Bill Clinton on charges of obstruction of justice and perjury.

Another relative who will not be named was nearby when I called using their house phone. As I was joyfully talking about the fact that Clinton “finally got his” our relative marched over, slammed their fingers on the old school phone receiver, and hung up the call.

To this day I firmly believe that former President Clinton at the very least committed perjury when he lied under oath while serving as the Commander in Chief. No, the

impeachment inquiry was not about his consensual relationship with an intern in and around the Oval Office.

Even national pollster Dick Morris believed Clinton could survive politically if he simply told the American people the truth and apologized.

Clinton did neither initially, and a Constitutional crisis gripped the nation for many months.

From a purely political perspective, not talking from a legal lens here, from a political perspective, it can be argued that House Republicans back in 1998 “overplayed their hand” back then by impeaching Clinton.

It angered folks on both sides of the political spectrum, like my relative

Dirty Democrats Overplayed Their Political Hand

That sure was evident in my hometown of Buffalo, New York one month later when Clinton held a rock-star-type rally at then named Marine Midland Arena. I was there, covering the rally for WKBW-TV as a news reporter.

The place was rocking. It sounded more like a rally or rock concert than a political event. It was held the day after the State of the Union.

In this case, I believe House Republicans were correct in drafting and passing articles of impeachment. The political ramifications hurt the GOP. Former House Speaker Bob Livingston was forced to resign when information was leaked about his own affair.

Guest Opinion: Trump Guilty Verdict Woke a Sleeping Giant

by MikeLomas

A mere minutes following the guilty verdict in former President Trump’s witch hunt of a trial, two foreshadowing developments took place that made me even more convinced that he is going to beat Crooked Joe Biden in the November election.

First, Trump and Republican surrogates shared a fundraising link on the GOP donation platform “Win Red” that asked supporters to donate to his presidential campaign with a strong, two-word message: “Never Surrender.”

America heard the message loud and clear, because right after the fundraising link went out, so many people flooded the system to donate that it crashed.

“The American people see through Crooked Joe Biden's rigged trial. So many Americans were moved to donate to President Trump's campaign that the WinRed pages went down. We are working

on getting the website back online as quickly as possible. Stay strong,” wrote the Trump presidential campaign on the “X” account @ TeamTrump.

Second, the crooked courts scheduled former President Trump’s sentencing date to July 11th, which just happens to be four days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

“More election interference,” said Georgia Young Republican Treasurer David Carlson.

President Biden orchestrated politically motivated prosecutors around the country to persecute former President Trump in multiple jurisdictions in many states to figuratively and literally chain him to a courtroom to stop him from campaigning. It is “lawfare” at its worst.

But there’s an old saying in life and in politics that will prove prophetic come November: “The universe will always find a way to correct itself.”

This was evident by the WinRed

fundraising website for former President Trump crashing right after the guilty verdict. The Democrats woke a sleeping giant: the fed up American populace who are sick and tired of open borders, record-high inflation, and hyperpartisan politicians who will abuse the law to jail a political opponent. Americans fight for justice, the rule of law, and most important: fairness in our elections. The guilty verdict in that Manhattan courtroom is going to backfire badly on the Biden campaign, deservedly so. It will lead to an even more fed up, angry electorate who will flood the voting booth in droves to elect former President Trump once again.

The deep state doubled down on its dubious desire to dump Trump in November that the former president is scheduled to be sentenced for July 11th, 2024, at approximately 10:00 a.m. eastern time. There is zero coincidence on the choice of this date: It is just days before the start of the Republican National Convention.

The trial was meant to handcuff

Trump on the campaign trial. The July 11th sentencing date is meant to permanently cuff him right before the Convention and the months leading up to the November election.

Be sure to circle that date in your calendars: Tuesday, November 5th.

That is the day we take our country back. A sham trial and predetermined guilty verdict that makes Stalin and Putin proud will not deter us from flooding voting booths across the country, the same way we flooded the WinRed fundraising website to financially support former President Trump.

It is time to show corrupt President Biden that this 2024 election will be “too big to rig." No matter how the Democrats try to lie, cheat, and steal this election, there won’t be enough ballot boxes stuffed or votes double-counted to send Biden back to the White House.

Time to turn your anger into action. Stop being a keyboard warrior. Vote this November like the future of America depends on it,

because it does.

House Majority Whip, Congressman Tom Emmer, summed up shortly, succinctly, and perfectly how we need to act following this ridiculous guilty verdict.

“Americans will release their own verdict this November,” said Emmer.

He’s right. We will release our verdict by once again electing former President Trump, commander in chief, of the greatest country in the world: the United States of America.

Mike Lomas is a Founder and Partner of The Financial Guys AdvisoryServicesofferedthrough Independent Solutions Wealth Management, LLC, and Blackridge Asset Management, LLC, Registered Investment Advisers. Securities are offered through Peak Brokerage Services, LLC, Member FINRA/ SIPC. Independent Solutions Wealth Management, LLC, and Blackridge AssetManagement,LLC,areseparate and independent entities from Peak BrokerageServices,LLC.

who slammed the phone down. The attempt to prosecute President Clinton galvanized the electorate and made some feel sorry for Clinton, that his deeply personal affair did not make him a bad President.

Voters mobbed Bill Clinton at a Buffalo Rally on January 21st, 1999

Continued

Photo Credit: C-Span2

Op-ed

Trump Verdict: Local Leaders Lash out at "Lawfare"

ByStefanMychajliw Outrage. Anger. Quick condemnation.

That was the reaction from political and elected leaders across Suffolk County concerning the guilty verdict that was delivered in the former President Donald J. Trump trial after only nine hours of deliberations.

Former President Trump is now the first commander in chief in American history to be convicted of a felony. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg tried former President Trump on 34 charges, accusing the former president of engaging in an illegal scheme to influence the 2016 election by paying off an adult actress who claimed to engage in sex with the 45th president.

“The decision is a travesty of justice. The entire trial was engineered by a liberal, anti-Trump district attorney, a Democrat

justice, and a Manhattan jury. The verdict comes as no surprise, but it is a shameful mark on our nation’s judicial history. This decision will have no bearing on the upcoming election. Former President Trump’s supporters have known since the beginning that this was nothing but a partisan show trial. Onward to November,” said New York State Conservative Chairman Gerard “Jerry” Kassar.

The local GOP was quick to respond as well, sending out a press release titled “Suffolk County Republican Committee Stands with Donald J. Trump.”

“The liberal left has made it clear that they are desperate to manipulate this election by exploiting and weaponizing the criminal justice system to help their failed President Joe Biden. This is a disgusting distortion of justice led by a partisan district attorney who campaigned on sending Donald Trump to jail and a compromised

judge who prevented evidence from being placed into evidence and issued slanted jury instructions. Former President Trump will no doubt rise high above this travesty through the appellate process and the Democrats are going to immediately see that this courtroom charade will galvanize support at the polls this year,” said Suffolk County Republican Committee Chairman Jesse Garcia.

New York State Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan, who previously donated to Joseph Biden’s presidential campaign, scheduled sentencing for July 11th, 2024. This is four days before the start of the Republican National Convention taking place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from July 15th to July 18th.

After the verdict, former President Trump pointed to the fact that Judge Merchan never should have presided over the trial because of that donation, and the fact that his daughter Loren Merchan is a national consultant for Democratic officials across the country, including the top prosecutor in his impeachment trial, Congressman Adam Schiff.

One of the top prosecutors on Bragg’s team is also former Biden Justice Department attorney Matthew Colangelo.

“This abuse of the legal system, engineered by Department of Justice lawyers sent by Joe Biden, is a disgrace,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano. “Using government resources to go after a political

opponent is election interference at its worst. This whole affair is a national embarrassment and the voters see right through it. The people should decide who they want their president to be, not a bunch of biased prosecutors.”

In most cases the alleged crime President Trump is accused of, falsifying business records, would be considered a misdemeanor in New York. District Attorney Bragg turned it into a felony by making the claim, which former President Trump denied, that the former president doctored business records with the intent to influence the 2016 election.

Critics of the verdict also argue that the statute of limitations would have long run out since the legal clock on charges started ticking in 2016. The statute of limitations is five years for these types of alleged misdeeds.

But District Attorney Bragg argued that former New York

Governor Andrew Cuomo put a pause on statutes of limitations during the COVID pandemic.

“The weaponization of the criminal justice system by a politician should scare the daylights out of everyone,” said Desiree Glock of the group, “Truth Matters."

“If any members of our organization speak out against Joe Biden or any of the Democrats, can we expect to be raided by armed FBI agents? If they can do this to a former president, they can do it to any one of us. This is Fascism in its most ugly form,” added Glock.

The felonies former President Trump was convicted of, carry a prison sentence of four years on each count. It would be rare for a person found guilty of a similar crime, with no criminal background whatsoever, to be sentenced to time behind bars. Judge Merchan could also sentence former President Trump to probation or impose a fine.

Elected Leaders across NYS and America React to Trump Guilty Verdict

ByStefanMychajliw

Former President Trump:

"This was a disgrace. This was a rigged trial by a conflicted judge who was corrupt. It's a rigged trial, a disgrace. They wouldn't give us a venue change. We were at 5% or 6% in this district, in this area. This was a rigged, disgraceful trial.

"The real verdict is going to be November 5th by the people. And they know what happened here, and everybody knows what happened here. You have a Soros-backed DA, and the whole thing, we didn't do a thing wrong.

"I'm a very innocent man, and it's okay, I'm fighting for our country. I'm fighting for our Constitution. Our whole country is being rigged right now.

"This was done by the Biden administration in order to wound or hurt an opponent, a political opponent. And I think it's just a disgrace. And we'll keep fighting. We'll fight till the end, and we'll win because our country has gone to hell.

"We don't have the same country anymore. We have a divided mess. We're a nation in decline, serious decline, millions and millions of people pouring into our country right now from prisons and from mental

institutions, terrorists, and they're taking over our country. We have a country that's in big trouble.

"But this was a rigged decision right from Day One. With a conflicted judge who should have never been allowed to try this case. Never. And we will fight for our Constitution. This is long from over. Thank you very much."

Campaign Of President Joe Biden And Vice President Kamala Harris:

“In New York today, we saw that no one is above the law. Donald Trump has always mistakenly believed he would never face consequences for breaking the law for his own personal gain. But today’s verdict does not change the fact that the American people face a simple reality. There is still only one way to keep Donald Trump out of the Oval Office: at the ballot box. Convicted felon or not, Trump will be the Republican nominee for president.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.:

"The Democratic Party’s strategy is to beat President Trump in the courtroom rather than the ballot box. This will backfire in November. Even worse, it is profoundly undemocratic," the independent presidential candidate said on X.

"America deserves a President who can win at the ballot box without compromising our government’s separation of powers or weaponizing the courts.

"The Democrats are afraid they will lose in the voting booth, so instead they go after President Trump in the courtroom.

"I’m also running against President Trump in this election. The difference is I’m challenging him on his record."

Former Republican Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy:

“The prosecutor is a politician who promised to nail Trump. The judge’s daughter is a Democrat operative who literally *raised $$ from the trial* while her father presided over it. The jury instructions said they didn’t have to agree on the crime to convict. This will backfire.”

United States Senator Charles Schumer:

“No one is above the law. The verdict speaks for itself.”

Representative Elise Stefanik (R-Schuylerville):

"Today’s verdict shows how corrupt, rigged, and unAmerican the weaponized justice system has become under Joe Biden and Democrats. I fully support President

Trump appealing this decision and look forward to a higher New York Court to deliver justice and overturn this verdict.

"The facts are clear: this was a zombie case illegally brought forward by a corrupt prosecutor doing Joe Biden’s political bidding in a desperate attempt to save Joe Biden’s failing campaign. The case hinged on the testimony of a convicted felon who was disbarred for lying and perjured himself when he lied to Congress. This sham trial was overseen by a corrupt and highly unethical Judge who is a Biden donor and whose own

family has directly profited from this case.

"This corrupt Democrat Judge imposed a clearly unconstitutional gag order on President Trump and his team. This corrupt Democrat Judge routinely sided with the prosecution and prevented President Trump’s defense from calling a critical witness to the stand. The prosecution team that brought forward this case consisted of a Soros-funded Far Left Democrat District Attorney on a vendetta, Democrat political operatives, and Democrat donors.

Former President Trump outside the courtroom with attorney Todd Blanche

Lead attorney Todd Blanche defending former President Donald Trump

Photo Credit: WinRed Fundraising solicitation sent following former President Trump's guilty verdict.

Democrat Calls for Hochul to Pardon Trump

ByStefanMychajliw

A Democratic Congressman who challenged President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination for President in 2024 is calling on New York Governor Kathy Hochul to pardon President Donald J. Trump.

Since President Trump was found guilty of 34 fraud-related charges in New York State Supreme Court, Governor Hochul has the power to grant a pardon.

“Donald Trump is a serial liar, cheater, and philanderer, a six-time declarer of corporate bankruptcy, an instigator of insurrection, and a convicted felon who thrives on portraying himself as a victim.@ GovKathyHochul should pardon him for the good of the country,” wrote Congressman Dean B. Phillips on “X,” the platform previously known as Twitter.

Even though Governor Hochul has not responded to the call for her to pardon President Trump, Democratic Congressman Phillips doubled down on his call for her to do so.

“You think pardoning is stupid? Making him a martyr over a payment to a porn star is stupid. (Election charges are entirely different.) It’s energizing his base, generating record sums of campaign cash, and will likely result in an electoral boost,” added Phillips.

Since the New York trial against President Trump was not in federal court, there is no role or authority for President Biden to issue a pardon concerning the matter before State Supreme Court Justice Juan Merhcan.

“We will have violence. That’s coming. 70 million people voted for Donald Trump. President Biden should pardon Donald Trump of any and all crimes, and suggest publicly that Governor Hochul do the same thing,” said former Fox News host Bill O’Reilly while appearing with Chris Cuomo on News Nation.

“Hochul will never pardon Trump. For the same reasons Democrats rarely dissent from The Party or its donors. The smart Democrats know a backlash is

coming. And they are panicking. They are trying to appease the forces they have unleashed. Too late,” wrote Joel Pollak, Senior

Editor-at-Large and In-house Counsel at Breitbart News.

Trump Campaign Raises Big Bucks Following Guilty Verdict

ByStefanMychajliw

The son of President Trump stated his presidential campaign has raised $200 million dollars in campaign contributions since the former President was found guilty on 34 fraud charges on May 30th, 2024.

Eric Trump told Maria Bartiromo on Fox News that when you combine both small and large dollar donations since last week’s guilty verdict, President Donald J. Trump collected a combined $200 million in campaign contributions.

“As I was leaving my house about 37 seconds ago, I asked my wife, ‘What are we up to now?’ And [Lara] said, just in terms of small dollar, we’re well over $70 million. This is $21 donations, $43 donations, right, small dollar donations. If you add the large dollar donations to it, you’re over $200 million,” said Eric Trump on Fox News.

The Trump campaign emailed Republican elected officials and donors shortly before the verdict was read just after 5:00 PM eastern, giving them a “WinRed” fundraising link for supporters to donate. WinRed is an online fundraising platform managed by the Republican National Committee (RNC).

Think of it as a political “PayPal” where candidates like President Trump use to fundraise, and the RNC receives a small percentage of the total donation.

Immediately following the verdict, the WinRed website was hit with so much traffic that it temporarily crashed, posting an error message on the main page.

“WinRed Under Maintenance. Our engineers are working to provide you with a better experience. We will be back shortly,” read the post.

“In all my years running digital for campaigns, I don't think I've ever seen it overwhelmed to the point of crashing like this,” said Republican Digital Director Andrew Mullins.

“Can you even imagine how much money he’s raising?,” asked commentator and author Michel Knowles.

The Trump campaign knew exactly how much in the few hours following the verdict: $34.8 million.

“Not only was the amount

historic, but 29.7% of donor's were brand new donors to the WinRed platform. President Trump and our campaign are immensely grateful from this outpouring of support from patriots across our country. President Trump is fighting to save our nation and November 5th is the day Americans will deliver the real verdict," wrote Trump Campaign Advisors Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles.

In the 24 hours after the verdict was read, the Trump campaign raised a total of $52.8 million.

“They have awakened a sleeping giant,” said Lara Trump, RNC Co-Chairwoman and daughter of President Trump.

Biden Spends Billions Building Seven EV Charging Stations

ByDeborahWilliams

Biden's administration has only managed to build seven or eight EV charging stations with a $7.5 billion program, which is barely off the ground three years later.

The Federal Highway Administration plans to build half a million EV charging stations by 2030. Buttigieg said he is confident they can go from seven stations to 500,000 within six years, despite the slow start to the effort many describe as glacial speed.

President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in November 2021, allocating $7.5 billion for EV charging. $5 billion was designated for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program to build physical charging stations across the country.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg appeared recently on Face the Nation where host Margaret

Brennan asked how it is possible that “the Federal Highway Administration says only seven or eight charging stations have been produced with a $7.5 billion investment that taxpayers made back in 2021. Why isn't that happening more quickly?"

Buttigieg responded, "So the president's goal is to have half a million chargers up by the end of this decade. Now, in order to do a charger, it's more than just plunking a small device into the ground. There's utility work and this is also a new category of federal investment. But we've been working with each of the 50 states, every one of them is getting formula dollars to do this work."

Brennan followed with, “Seven or eight, though” in three years?

Buttigieg reiterated Biden's EV goal, "Again, by 2030, 500,000 chargers. And the very first handful of chargers are now already being physically built. But again, that's the absolute very, very beginning stages

of the construction to come."

Brenan persisted by saying, “Right. But- but that gets to the point about not being able to make long-distance travel possible quickly, if you don’t have the infrastructure there to support it.”

Gabriella Hoffman, director of the

Center for Energy and Conservation at Independent Women’s Forum, said on her Substack blog, “The Biden administration has repeatedly said that “public investment” in EV charging stations will inspire more Americans to buy electric vehicles. But that’s not true.”

There are already 183,000 privately run EV stations in the U.S. The majority, over 140,000, are Level 2 stations that take 4-10 hours to get an 80% charge in battery electric vehicles and 1-2 hours to achieve an 80% charge in plug-in electric vehicles.

Hoffmann says, the availability of chargers “hasn’t compelled the majority of Americans to make the switch to electric cars. The Energy Information Administration recently reported EV and hybrid vehicle sales decreased during Quarter 1 2024— the first decline observed since 2020.”

Buttigieg has claimed that the cost of EVs has fallen to within a few percent of an equivalent gas car. He said, “Depending on the model, you may come out ahead now.”

Despite lower prices, the enthusiasm for EVs has significantly waned due to the growing awareness of the environmental costs and concerns about charging and range reliability.

Photo Credit: EV Connect

Photo Credit: x.com

Photo Credit: WinRed

Line of EV charging stations

Congressman Dean Phillips

President Trump raised almost $53 million in the 24 hours following his guilty verdict

ByDeborahWilliams

$uppressing Information Is as Easy as a Letter Change

What is the difference between the letter "S" and the dollar sign "$"?

A whole lot if you are a government entity trying to stop people from obtaining public documents and reports.

Good government attorney Paul Wolf has battled governments at every level for them to be more honest and open with the public they serve. He's filed lawsuits and fought the good fight for transparency. He's seen it all when it comes to big government doing everything it can to block the public from accessing public records.

That is until he heard about the slick trick the National Institute of Health (NIH) tried pulling to hide the source of tens of millions of dollars in government grants orchestrated by Dr. Anthony Fauci during the height of the COVID crisis.

"This one takes the cake for secretive creativity, that's for sure,” said Wolf. "It is outrageous that officials deleted emails and even went so far as to intentionally misspell record names to avoid public disclosure. It is disturbing to learn that NIH officials proactively took steps to avoid compliance with the Freedom of Information Act."

Citing “apparent mishandling of government information,” the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic recently sent a letter to Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, Director of NIH regarding the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and Senior Scientific Advisor, Dr. David Morens. Over 150 emails were released.

Dr. Morens’s recent testimony raised concerns about his “use of personal e-mail accounts to avoid transparency, intentionally avoid transparency via the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and the possibility that he intentionally deleted official records— specifically records related to the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

At the center of the controversy is the allegation that government officials intentionally replaced the letter "S" with a dollar sign "$" on official documents. This was supposedly done to hinder public access and scrutiny of a COVIDorigin scientific paper authored by Kristian Andersen.

It appears that a team led by Dr. Anthony Fauci intentionally misspelled Andersen's name by using a "$" sign in the spelling. This way, if the public or media requested a copy of her controversial report using a Freedom of Information Request (FOIA) and spelled her name the "correct way," the request could be denied because the name was "wrong."

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The Subcommittee cited that “evidence in possession of the Select Subcommittee suggests that NIAID officials would give forewarning of potentially damaging FOIA productions to nongovernmental individuals, in particular, Dr. Peter Daszak, President of EcoHealth.

Credit: X

Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

In June 2021, Greg Folkers, a former chief of staff to Dr. Fauci, misspelled EcoHealth as "Ec~Health." Members of the House committee said this misspelling seemed to be a deliberate attempt to prevent the email from being found in FOIA keyword searches related to EcoHealth.

One of the emails cited in the Subcommittee letter is damning. Daszak writes to Morens, “I hope the NIH can help reduce the amount that comes out – some of the emails between us all via your NIH account were a bit embarrassing re: criticizing the lab leakers and will be reported as showing that we were ‘conspiring’ together.”

The Subcommittee letter cites email evidence that “suggests a conspiracy at the highest levels of NIH and NIAID to avoid public transparency regarding the

COVID-19 pandemic. It is highly suspected that NIH, NIAID, and Ecohealth were conspiring together to keep information related to the US government funding gain of function research in a lab in China that may have led to the global pandemic."

The House plans to conduct transcribed interviews with NIH employees to uncover the apparent conspiracy. They point to the “apparent attack on public trust.”

Paul Wolf said, "The public has a right to know and it is important that the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act be followed and that government officials not seek to evade the law. The press and our elected representatives must remain vigilant in holding the government accountable to the people through FOIA requests."

Dirty Democrats Overplayed...

Continued from page 2

The fallout began months before, actually, in the midst of the trial, when Democrats made major gains in the 1998 midterm elections. For the first time since 1934, the political party in control of the presidency gained seats, with the Democrats picking up five. It was shocking.

House Speaker Newt Gingrich stepped down as speaker and left Congress altogether.

Numerous vulnerable Republicans who later voted in favor of impeachment decided not to run again in the 2000 election. While the choice to impeach President Clinton was correct, the American people saw it as prosecutorial abuse.

Fast forward more than a quarter century later to a Manhattan courtroom, where a jury just found President Trump guilty of “fraud” charges at the state level.

Unlike the impeachment of President Clinton where perjury charges were crystal clear and justified, the same cannot be said for President Trump’s recent case.

No question this abusive “lawfare” was orchestrated by the Biden Administration. Even if you give the Trump charges credibility, at most legal experts believe it’s a misdemeanor at the federal level, not felony state charges.

Even left leaning CNN commentator Fareed Zakaria agrees with this assessment:

“I doubt the New York indictment would have been brought against a defendant whose name was not Donald Trump,” said Zakaria.

Reaction from Trump’s guilty verdict was electrifying, the same way it was in Buffalo for the Clintons. This time around, people expressed their anger with their pocketbooks. Eric Trump

stated his father’s presidential campaign raised an astounding $200 million in small and large donations following the guilty verdict.

The Democrats and President Biden didn’t learn their lesson. They most definitely woke a sleeping giant and exposed themselves for who they really are: rabid, hyper partisan political opportunists who will stop at nothing to win, going so far to jail and imprison their political opponents on bogus charges.

People may not like politicians, but they demand fairness and justice in our political and judicial systems.

The sleeping giant known as the American electorate will resoundingly reject the political persecution and prosecution of President Trump.

Republicans lost big back in 1998 and shortly after.

So too will Joe Biden in 2024.

Elected Leaders across NYS and...

Continued from page 3

"From the start, the weaponized scales of justice were stacked against President Trump. Joe Biden, Far Left Democrats, and their stenographers in the mainstream media have made it clear they will stop at nothing to prevent President Trump from returning to the White House.

"We must work around the clock to ensure President Trump is victorious this November to save America from Biden’s failed Far Left Democrat agenda and the illegal weaponization of the justice system against the American people.”

New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt:

“The political weaponization of our judicial system by Democrats is disgraceful. This trial was a disgrace from the beginning and will rightfully be appealed. It will backfire on them when @realDonaldTrump and Republicans win at the ballot box on November 5th.”

New York Governor Kathy Hochul:

"Today's verdict reaffirms that no one is above the law. In preparation for a verdict in this trial, I directed my Administration to closely coordinate with local and federal law enforcement and we continue to monitor the situation," Hochul said in a statement. "We are

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Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg:

"While this defendant may be unlike any other in American history, we arrived at this trial, and ultimately today at this verdict, in the same manner as every other case that comes through the courtroom doors -- by following the facts and the law and doing so without fear or favor."

New York Attorney General Letitia James: "No one is above the law."

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Special Graduation Issue - June 26, 2024

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It’s that time of year again; thousands of students from our area will be taking part in commencement ceremonies during the month of June, to celebrate the completion of their high school careers.

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ll adver tising must be c ompleted by FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024 BY 5:0 0 P. M .

ByStefanMychajliw

Patchogue Woman Enters Guilty Plea for Killing Homicide Victim's Mother

A Patchohue woman accused of dismantling a memorial for a young woman’s memorial who was the victim of gang violence, then running over the victim’s mother and killing her with her car, entered a guilty plea related to that death, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney.

Annmarie Drago, 63, of Patchogue, pleaded guilty to Criminally Negligent Homicide, for fatally striking Evelyn Rodriguez, 50, of Brentwood, with her vehicle following a dispute regarding Drago’s removal of a memorial honoring Rodriguez’s daughter, 16-yearold Kayla Cuevas, who was murdered in the area two years

prior.

“Evelyn Rodriguez was still mourning the loss of her daughter when this defendant dismantled her daughter’s memorial, and then struck the victim with her vehicle, ultimately causing her death.

We hope this plea brings some sense of peace and closure to Ms. Rodriguez’s family, a family that has suffered multiple tragic losses, said District Attorney Tierney. “My office is committed to continue Ms. Rodriguez’s fight to combat the scourge of gang violence, and to make our streets safer for all residents of Suffolk County.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during her guilty plea allocution,

Center Moriches Community Rallies to Support the ALS Ride for Life

ByStefanMychajliw

Do their part to help end a debilitating and deadly disease that as of now has no cure.

That is why a dedicated group of students and staff at Center Moriches High School and Clayton Huey Elementary School participated in the ALS Ride for Life to raise funds and awareness to find a cure.

High school students led the walk that left the high school and made a stop at Clayton Huey where they were met by cheers from students and staff in support of the cause. Through a variety of fundraising efforts, students at Clayton Huey Elementary School raised $1,643 to donate to ALS Ride for Life.

According to “ALS Today,”

on September 14, 2018, at approximately 3:45 p.m., Drago removed items from a memorial site created by Rodriguez in memory of her daughter, which was on the sidewalk in front of Drago’s home in Brentwood.

The location of the memorial marked the location near where Rodriguez’s daughter, Kayla Cuevas, had been killed by gang violence in 2018. Drago threw out or destroyed many of the memorial items including a large photo board of Kayla, as well as a large floral wreath which she placed in the back of her vehicle.

Rodriguez and her partner were called to the memorial site by media who were present. The

media filmed the confrontation when Rodriguez demanded Drago return the items.

At approximately 4:15 p.m., while Rodriguez was standing near the front driver side tire of Drago’s vehicle, Drago attempted to leave the scene.

Drago accelerated, knocking Rodriguez down, and then continued to drive over her.

Rodriguez suffered multiple injuries including a skull fracture. She was taken to Southside Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

In March 2020, Drago was convicted after a jury trial heard before Acting Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Fernando M. Camacho, of Criminally Negligent Homicide, a Class E felony, Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree, a Class A misdemeanor, and Petit Larceny, a Class A misdemeanor.

One year later, in March 2021, Drago was sentenced to nine months in jail. In July 2022, the Appellate Division reversed that conviction, and the case was sent back to Suffolk County Court for a retrial.

On October 20, 2023,

Annmarie Drago was found guilty after a retrial by a jury heard before Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Richard Ambro, Petit Larceny, a Class A misdemeanor.

She was acquitted of Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree, a Class A misdemeanor, charge. A mistrial was declared on the Criminally Negligent Homicide charge and the District Attorney’s Office said it would retry the case.

On May 31, 2024, Drago pleaded guilty before Justice Ambro to Criminally Negligent Homicide and is expected to receive five years of probation. The District Attorney’s Office recommended Drago serve one to three years in prison.

Drago is due back in court for sentencing on August 1, 2024.

This case is being prosecuted by Acting Deputy Bureau Chief Laura Newcombe and Assistant District Attorney James McCormack of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Stephen Jacobs of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Major Case Squad.

Brookhaven Veteran Honored by the NYS Senate

ByStefanMychajliw

ALS is responsible for as many as five in every 100,000 deaths in people 20 years or older.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease or motor neuron disease, is a progressive, degenerative disease that destroys the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement.

These cells, called "motor neurons," run from the brain through the brain stem or spinal cord to muscles that control movement in the arms, legs, chest, throat and mouth. In people with ALS, these cells die off, causing the muscle tissues to waste away. ALS does not affect a person's sensory functions or mental faculties.

Longtime Town of Brookhaven employee and Vietnam Veteran Walter Maresco was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame in Albany. The Air Force veteran is the nominee of New York State Senator Dean Murray.

“A truly wonderful and deserving person. Walter is a longtime Town of Brookhaven employee who serves with honor and distinction. I see Walter from time to time when I pull up to Town Hall in the

morning, or at times passing near the law department, and my day is always better because of the brief conversation. God bless you Walter, thank you for your service to our country and to the residents of the Town of Brookhaven,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico. In the mid-1960s Mr. Maresco was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, when he volunteered to go to Vietnam where he served for over a year and attained the rank of Airman 1st Class.

Photo Credit: Suffolk County DA Annmarie Drago MugShot

Photo Credit: NYS Senator Dean Murray

Photo Credit: NYS Senator Dean Murray

Vietnam Veteran Walter Maresco was inducted into the NYS Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.

Vietnam Veteran Walter Maresco was inducted into the NYS Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.

Photo Credit: Center Moriches School District ALS Ride for Life

ByStefanMychajliw

Bellport High School Raises Resources for Navy SEAL Museum

Bellport High School students recently raised $510 for the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum in Sayville by participating in the "Murph Challenge", named in memory of Lt. Michael Murphy.

Helped by social studies teacher Joe Scioli, students and staff made donations and completed several athletic activities in the challenge.

The Murph Challenge consists of running one mile, completing 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, then running another mile while wearing a 20-pound vest or body armor.

Located in West Sayville, New York, on the south shore of Long Island, the now seven-year-old museum is dedicated to Navy SEAL Michael Murphy, who lost his life in a fierce firefight with the Taliban in Afghanistan.

The museum website murphsealmuseum.org shares this heroic and riveting act of bravery by Lt. Murphy and his fellow Navy SEALs:

“On June 28, 2005, deep behind enemy lines east of Asadabad in the Hindu Kush of Afghanistan, a very committed four-man Navy SEAL team was conducting a reconnaissance mission at the unforgiving altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. The SEALs, LT Michael P. Murphy, Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class, Danny Dietz, Sonar Technician 2nd Class, Matthew Axelson and Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Marcus Luttrell had a vital task. The four SEALs were scouting Ahmad Shah – a terrorist in his mid-30s who grew up in the adjacent mountains just to the south.

"Under the assumed name Muhammad Ismail, Shah led a guerrilla group known to locals as the “Mountain Tigers” that had aligned with the Taliban and other militant groups close to the Pakistani border. The SEAL mission was compromised when the team was spotted by local nationals, who presumably reported its presence and location to the Taliban.

"A fierce firefight erupted between the four SEALs and a much larger enemy force of more than 50 anti-coalition militia. The enemy had the SEALs outnumbered. They also had terrain advantage. They launched a well-organized, threesided attack on the SEALs. The firefight continued relentlessly as the overwhelming militia forced the team deeper into a ravine.

"Trying to reach safety, the four men, now each wounded, began bounding down the mountain’s steep sides, making leaps of 20 to 30 feet. Approximately 45 minutes

into the fight, pinned down by overwhelming forces, Dietz, the communications petty officer, sought open air to place a distress call back to the base. But before he could, he was shot in the hand, the blast shattering his thumb.

"Despite the intensity of the firefight and suffering grave gunshot wounds himself, Murphy is credited with risking his own life to save the lives of his teammates. Murphy, intent on making contact with headquarters, but realizing this would be impossible in the extreme terrain where they were fighting, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own life moved into the open, where he could gain a better position to transmit a call to get help for his men.

"Moving away from the protective mountain rocks, he knowingly exposed himself to increased enemy gunfire. This deliberate and heroic act deprived him of cover and made him a target for the enemy. While continuing to be fired upon, Murphy made contact with the SOF Quick Reaction Force at Bagram Air Base and requested assistance. He calmly provided his unit’s location and the size of the enemy force while requesting immediate support for his team. At one point he was shot in the back causing him to drop the transmitter. Murphy picked it back up, completed the call and continued firing at the enemy who was closing in. Severely wounded, Murphy returned to his cover position with his men and continued the battle.

"An MH-47 Chinook helicopter, with eight additional SEALs and eight Army Night Stalkers aboard, was sent as part of an extraction mission to pull out the four embattled SEALs. The MH-47 was escorted by heavily-armored, Army attack helicopters. Entering a hot combat zone, attack helicopters are used initially to neutralize the enemy and make it safer for the lightly-armored, personneltransport helicopter to insert.

"The heavy weight of the attack helicopters slowed the formation’s advance prompting the MH-47 to outrun their armored escort. They knew the tremendous risk going into an active enemy area

in daylight, without their attack support, and without the cover of night. Risk would, of course, be minimized if they put the helicopter down in a safe zone. But knowing that their warrior brothers were shot, surrounded and severely wounded, the rescue team opted to directly enter the oncoming battle in hopes of landing on brutally hazardous terrain.

"As the Chinook raced to the battle, a rocket-propelled grenade struck the helicopter, killing all 16 men aboard.

"On the ground and nearly out of ammunition, the four SEALs, Murphy, Luttrell, Dietz and Axelson, continued the fight. By the end of the two-hour gunfight that careened through the hills and over cliffs, Murphy, Axelson and Dietz had been killed. An estimated 35 Taliban were also dead.

"The fourth SEAL, Luttrell, was blasted over a ridge by a rocket propelled grenade and was knocked unconscious. Regaining consciousness some time later, Luttrell managed to escape – badly injured – and slowly crawl away down the side of a cliff.

"Dehydrated, with a bullet wound

to one leg, shrapnel embedded in both legs, three vertebrae cracked; the situation for Luttrell was grim. Rescue helicopters were sent in, but he was too weak and injured to make contact. Traveling seven miles on foot he evaded the enemy for nearly a day.

"Gratefully, local nationals came to his aid, carrying him to a nearby village where they kept him for three days. The Taliban came to the village several times demanding that Luttrell be turned over to them. The villagers refused. One of the villagers made his way to a Marine outpost with a note from

Luttrell, and U.S. forces launched a massive operation that rescued him from enemy territory on July 2.

"Murphy was able to relay the position of his unit, an act that ultimately led to the rescue of Luttrell and the recovery of the remains of the three who were killed in the battle.

"This was the worst singleday U.S. Forces death toll since Operation Enduring Freedom began nearly six years ago. It was the single largest loss of life for Naval Special Warfare since World War II.”

Statewide Honors for William Floyd High School Chemistry Teacher

ByStefanMychajliw

William Floyd High School chemistry teacher Dr. Martin Palermo has been selected as the Suffolk County High School Science Teacher of the Year by the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS) for 2024.

He was recently honored at the STANYS annual awards dinner held on May 22 and by the William Floyd Board of Education.

“Dr. Palermo joins an elite group of science educators who have demonstrated that they are not only outstanding classroom teachers, but have been involved in endeavors that have provided students and teachers with programs and strategies for the advancement of science, in and out of the classroom,” said Brian Vorwald, STANYS past president and awards committee co-chair in a letter announcing the award.

“I am honored and humbled to have been selected for this award,” said Dr. Palermo. “As an educator, I have always been deeply passionate about helping students and supporting new teachers in their journey to success, and it means a great deal

to be recognized for this work.”

Dr. Palermo has received numerous accolades and awards throughout his 17-year career at William Floyd including earning the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Program Award and the Stony Brook University “40 Under Forty” award.

He is a published author, peer reviewer for science journals, and a New York State Master Teacher Emeritus. He was also one of only two educators across New York State selected to serve on the former governor’s reopening advisory council after the COVID pandemic state-mandated school closures in 2020. He also won the 2022

STANYS Excellence in Teaching award and currently serves as the president-elect of the American Association of Chemistry Teachers.

“During his time here, Dr. Palermo has been an outstanding teacher and role model. He has created innovative and rigorous lessons, which engage his students and force them to think critically and analytically. He has become an integral member of the high school and is greatly relied upon by the building administration to mentor teachers and to facilitate workshops," said William Floyd High School principal Philip Scotto.

Photo Credit: U.S. Navy

Lt. Michael P. Murphy, Navy SEAL

Photo Credit: murphsealmuseum.org

Lt. Michael P. Murphy and fellow Nacy SEALs

Photo Credit: WFHS

William Floyd High School chemistry teacher Dr. Martin Palermo was named Suffolk County High School Science Teacher of the Year.

Brookhaven Clerk Hosts Mobile Office Hours

ByStefanMychajliw Brookhaven Councilmember

Jonathan Kornreich joined Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle during his most recent mobile office hours at the Comsewogue Public Library.

Clerk LaValle shared interesting tidbits of information about the Comsewogue Public Library, including watch your garden grow with seeds from the Comsewogue Library. The library offers various flowers, fruits, herbs, and vegetables.

The library has a sit-down area for those who want to relax, read, play games, and complete a puzzle. Bring your kids to the kids' room for playtime, reading time, and or attend some of the kid programs offered.

Place's historic images and artifacts throughout the library.

View unique sculptures crafted by Paul Suominen, including the dragon sculpture "Ms. Lotta Scales.”

“Library of Things” is a collection of nontraditional library items to borrow, like a telescope, karaoke machine, Kindle, lawn signs, corn hole, and more.

Visit the spacious Comsewogue Library art gallery to view numerous original works from local artists.

For more information about the Brookhaven Town Clerk’s Office, just visit the town government’s website at brookhavenny.gov. Once at the website, click the “government” tab at the top of the page. The Town Clerk page is toward the bottom.

New Deputy Undersheriff in the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

ByStefanMychajliw

The South Shore Press congratulates Keith Taylor, who was promoted to the position of Deputy Undersheriff in the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.

Dr. Taylor has a lengthy and honorable career in protecting and serving families in and around New York City and Suffolk County.

He is a retired New York City Police Sergeant, Special Assignment, and NYCD Assistant Commissioner. In addition to his law enforcement work, Dr. Taylor also works as an adjunct assistant professor of criminal justice at John Jay College.

Dr. Taylor holds certifications as an International Association of Emergency Managers BoardCertified Emergency Manager and Federal Emergency Management Agency Master Exercise Practitioner.

He teaches Department of Homeland Security incident management courses nationwide to first responders. He is also an American Society of Industrial Security Board-Certified Protection Professional.

Dr. Taylor's involvement with the NYPD's Emergency Service Unit (SWAT/Heavy Rescue) equipped him with specialized expertise in Weapons of Mass Destruction response. His collaboration with the FBI/ NYPD WMD Task Force earned him recognition from then FBI Director Robert Mueller for his role in mitigating a nationally significant incident at the United Nations. Dr. Taylor also served as a Planning Team Manager for the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Team New York Task Force 1.

He was a 9/11 first responder and supervisor of the NYPD Missing Persons Squad and was inducted to the NYPD Honor Legion for his role in chasing and arresting armed bank robbers during a Bronx bank robbery incident.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Taylor served his community by actively deploying for one year as a second lieutenant with the New York State Guard and was honored by the New York State Governor with the New York State Pandemic Response Service Ribbon.

Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, a birthday bash, or a special occasion, we’ve got you covered. Our venue can accommodate up to 80 people, so there is room for everyone on the guest list. Plus, our team of expert event specialists will work with you every step of the way to ensure your event is a success.

Photo Credit: SCSO

Dr. Keith Taylor was promoted to Deputy Undersheriff in the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.

Photo Credit: Brookhaven Clerk Kevin LaValle

Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich joined Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle during his most recent mobile office hours.

Multiple Language Learners Honored at William Floyd High School

ByStefanMychajliw

Sixty-five William Floyd High School students recently earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB), which recognizes high school seniors who have attained a high level of proficiency in two or more world languages by high school graduation. In front of a gathering of family and friends in the Jeananne Dawson Memorial Library, students celebrated this accomplishment.

“This year, we wanted to recognize and applaud our NYSSB recipients in a special way,” said Kim Massa, chairperson of World Languages/ENL and Seal of Biliteracy coordinator for William Floyd High School. “Earning this seal is an amazing accomplishment, providing our students with a valuable tool that will be used throughout their lives. I am so very proud of this group.”

To earn the Seal of Biliteracy, students must earn points in both English and world languages, through a variety of courses, exams, projects, interviews and more. Recipients accomplished this

by taking AP exams, NYS English as a Second Language Achievement Tests (NYESLAT), Home Language Arts coursework, the STAMPS (Global Seal of Biliteracy) exam, Checkpoint C courses, and, most importantly, interviewed with a panel of advisors in two or three languages. “This is a prodigious accomplishment that took a lot of extra work and effort,” added Ms. Massa.

William Floyd began offering the Seal of Biliteracy in 2020 with a small recipient group of approximately 15 students. Ms. Massa and the World Languages/ ENL department has worked tirelessly to expand the program and reach more students with this important skill that will help them as they begin to transition into the next chapter of their lives.

The Seal of Biliteracy provides colleges and universities with a method to recognize and credit applicants for attainment of highlevel skills in multiple languages. It also prepares students with 21st-century skills and opens more opportunities as those who are able to speak multiple languages are

invaluable to employers.

Graduates earning this honor will earn a certificate, a nationally recognized notation on their official transcript, a seal on their diploma and a medallion to be proudly worn at graduation.

Spanish:

Kaitlin Baker, Riley Bent, Javier Castillo, Analia Cobb-Rountree, Carmen Cux Hernandez, Railin de la Cruz Santos, Keila Delille, Jeremy Dominguez, Mary Duenzl, Brianna Edouard, Allison Filosa, Kayla Gilmore, Karen Guiracocha

Narvaez, Matteo Higueros, Caitlin Hopkins, Karen Jackson, Payton Kurosz, Lanasia Mayo, Kayden Meyer, Brady Miller, Helen Medina Saquicela, Teia Mongardi, Ethan Morano, Darik Morocho, Mia Myers, Juan Naranjo Balaguera, Seth Ortiz, Faith Petersen, Melanie Podlesny, Valery Ramirez Melendez, Gabriel Rebelo, Jennifer Reina Sinchi, Anthony Reyes, Jayla Rivera, Kei Roberts, Aidan Russo, Olivia Saar, Kate Samlihan, Isabella Simeone, Geneva Smith, Lindsay Smith, Jacqueline Sutherland, Freddy Valdez, Angelo Velez, Kaila Weissbach, Caylen Williams,

Jayson Yourison and Maria Zavala Garcia.

Italian:

Julia Abbaticchio, Andreana Adamita, Arianna Boscia, Ashley Escobar, Deanna Farrauto, Adrianna Filippelli, Aidan Grover, Joseph Janssen, Alexandra LaValle, Dora Lentini and Fabiola Ramos Rodriguez.

Spanish and Italian: Cristy Alvarado Vazquez, Dilan Castillo Jimenez, Jayson Molina, Liliana Munguia, Carla Zavala and Natalie Zavala.

State and Local Leaders Honor New American Legion Officers

ByStefanMychajliw

New York State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano and New York State Senator Dean Murray, and Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne attended the New Officers Ceremony of the American Legion Post 269.

The Post is located at the corner

Beautiful Green Space Area Now Open at Port Jefferson Free Library

ByStefanMychajliw

The public green space known as “The Park 114!” is now open at the Port Jefferson Free Library. A grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony took place for the official grand opening.

Designed by BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers, the green space is open daily during daylight hours, when the Library is open.

The purpose of the park is to provide library patrons with a “complete nature experience and offer a well-designed outdoor area for Library programs.”

Port Jefferson families can now experience a secluded, richly landscaped outdoor area at their library.

From the BBS Landscape website: “The centerpiece of the Outdoor

Nature Area is a large, paved Meditation Zone situated in the upper portion of the upward sloping site. Decorative brick pavers and bluestones form a labyrinth, intended to relax and rejuvenate one’s body and mind. Further up the parcel, a hands-on discovery and experience of various natural materials and elements is delivered at the Nature Explore Zone.

"Multiple seating types, decorative

fencing, and the abundant use of vegetation complement the existing site features and create a wellbalanced, tranquil setting for new outdoor (learning) experiences and provide passive recreation opportunities. Intended to be used by local residents of all age groups and abilities, the Library Outdoor Nature Area is located directly in the heart of the picturesque Port Jefferson Village.”

of South Ocean Avenue and Baker Street, right next to Village Hall. The building sits at the back of the Harry T. Hanson Veterans Memorial Park. The cornerstone of our building was laid in 1924.

“I am grateful to acknowledge the achievements of these dedicated people. I thank these individuals and Post 269 for living

their motto of service to God and country and for their service to the people of our community,” said Assemblyman DeStefano.

Patchogue Post 269 applied for its charter on August 15, 1919, and the charter was approved on February 10, 1921. The Post was given the permanent official Charter on March 25th, 1921. The first Commander was Dr. Frank Overton.

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest veterans service organization, committed to mentoring and sponsorship of youth programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.

State Senator Palumbo Makes the Educational Rounds

Valedictorian and Salutatorians at Eastport South Manor and Hampton Bays High Schools.

ByStefanMychajliw

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo recently held a roundtable with valedictorian and salutatorians at Eastport South Manor and Hampton Bays High Schools.

“I was extremely impressed by these amazing students and wish them all the best in their future

endeavors. Congratulations to our Brookhaven and South Fork 2024 Val/Sals and their families,” said Senator Palumbo.

In addition to these student recognition events, Senator Palumbo also attended the first meeting of the Stony Brook Southampton Advisory Board to discuss the future of the campus.

Photo Credit: Facebook.com

New Officers Ceremony of the American Legion Post 269

Photo Credit: WFHS

Sixty-five William Floyd High School students recently earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy.

“The Park 114!” is now open at the Port Jefferson Free Library.

LOCAL

ByRobertChartuk

Human Face of Drug Epidemic at Fentanyl Summit

The district attorney called it “the problem of our time,” and the drug enforcement special agent said it is “the greatest national security threat we’ve ever faced.” They were speaking at a special Fentanyl Summit and were joined by families of drug poisoning victims to plead with legislators to take action.

Organized by Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney, the summit put a human face on the carnage wreaked by the fentanyl coming over the open southern border in a massive drug trade operated by Mexican cartels. An American dies every five seconds from the drugs, and law enforcement has intercepted enough of them to kill every American many times over.

Plenty gets through and the price goes up for an opioid dose from seven cents in Mexico to anywhere from $30-$60 on the streets, according to Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Frank Tarentino. “Cartels are operating in every major city in the United States as part of a transnational criminal organization,” he reported. The raw materials for fentanyl and other deadly drugs originate from China and are mixed in labs in Mexico, Tarentino noted, adding that seven out of 10 illegal pills tested by the DEA contain lethal amounts of fentanyl. “Every day, we find more on Long Island. It's an existential threat we’re faced with from China.”

A dose of the synthetic opioid equal to just five grains of salt can kill an adult, the special agent pointed out. A sugar packet can contain enough to poison 500. “It's killing Americans at record and catastrophic rates,” Tarentino said. Tons of it pour over the border, making it the leading cause of death for young people.

One of the many victims was

Chelsey Murray, a 31-year-old Lake Grove resident killed by fentanyl. Her parents, Gene and Susan Murray, took to the podium to describe the overdose deaths of both Chelsey and her brother, Michael, and expressed hope that a bill named for her in Albany is approved to help fight the drug epidemic.

“Please, let’s do something so that no other family will have to go through this,” Gene Murray pleaded to the crowd, many of whom had also lost loved ones. “We need to get the dealers off the street,” Mrs. Murray said. “Helping get Chelsey’s law passed is how we survive.”

Tierney has aggressively lobbied for the law, which would allow prosecutors to charge fentanyl dealers with manslaughter if the buyer dies and the dealer had reason to know that the substance they sold would likely cause death. Currently, a dealer can only be charged for the drug sale itself.

Chelsey’s family shared the tragic story of her death. She was fighting an addiction and had been clean for months. Texts with her dealer show that she was concerned about fentanyl, but he assured her that his drugs were okay. Her mother found her unresponsive in the family’s bathroom, just as she had found her son 10 years earlier. Chelsey was revived, and during the 11 days she fought for life in the hospital, the dealer was arrested. He had prior

drug convictions and was sentenced to 10 years for selling the drugs that killed her.

“The police were terrific,” Mr. Murray said. “We were able to get justice, some closure. He only received 10 years and will probably be out in seven or eight. Without our children, we spend our holidays at the cemetery; we are living a life sentence, but he will be free.”

Chelsey’s dealer was convicted due to the efforts of a special team in the district attorney’s Narcotics Bureau that responds to every overdose and looks to bust those responsible (see related story in the South Shore Press).

Another mother who lost a child to fentanyl is Carole Trottere of Old Field. She attended the summit with many other moms and dads, a dedicated group looking to get the laws changed in the memory of their children. “We need to keep raising our voices until something gets done about this epidemic,” Trottere said. “Too many people are dying; it’s such a tragedy.”

The Progressive Democrats who control the legislative process in Albany have turned a blind eye to Chelsey’s Law and other bills drafted by Republicans to get a handle on the drug scourge. One is to classify xylazine, a large animal sedative sold on the street as Tranq, as a controlled substance. It is used as a cutting agent for heroin and other drugs and was found in the

lethal dose that killed Chelsey. It’s turning up in almost every illegal drug sold on Long Island, officials reported.

Another bill that is not seeing the light of day in Albany would allow judges to set bail for dealers arrested for selling under eight ounces of fentanyl, especially for drugs that lead to a death. Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo joined with his Democrat colleagues to eliminate bail for most criminal offenses in 2019, kicking off a crime wave that has terrorized communities ever since.

Long Island officials have also called for allowing the state’s Crime Victim Assistance Fund to provide

relief to families that have lost members to an overdose. “Last year, 107,500 New Yorkers died from drug overdoses,” with the number still rising,” Tierney said. “It is the problem of our time.”

“It is beyond disbelief that Governor Hochul and the Democrats in the legislature refuse to pass common-sense laws to fight the drug epidemic,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, a Republican from Medford who sponsored the Tranq bill. “And President Biden and the Democrats in Washington refusing to control the border as these drugs keep pouring in to kill our kids is a national disgrace.”

Bayport-Blue Backs the Blue and First Responders

ByStefanMychajliw

Bayport-Blue School District’s Sylvan Avenue Elementary recognized the community’s first responders with a special celebration to honor the work they do protecting and serving families across Suffolk County.

The event began with a fire truck and police car parade in which student and staff spectators cheered as sirens and flashing lights lit up the school’s front circle. Suffolk County Police Officer Gayer then put on a K-9 demonstration.

Guest Editorial: Protecting Election Integrity

Op-edby Attorney JosephT.Burns

When it comes to securing our elections in New York State and across the country, something happened that every American concerned about democracy and the integrity of our elections should applaud: The House of Representatives passed a bill overturning the ridiculous Washington, D.C., law that permits noncitizens to vote in local elections. This bill was supported by every House Republican; sadly, a majority of House Democrats voted against the bill. The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate. The Senate must waste no time in considering and approving this proposal.

In 2022, the Washington, D.C., City Council approved a local law to allow noncitizens to vote in local District of Columbia elections. Under this law, all noncitizen

residents of the District of Columbia are allowed to cast a ballot for District of Columbia municipal offices and referenda. Under this truly absurd law, even ambassadors from hostile foreign states such as Russia and Communist China are eligible to vote in local Washington, D.C., elections. Isn’t this the epitome of foreign interference in U.S. elections?

Sadly, Washington, D.C., isn’t the only municipal government in recent years to make the awful decision to open up its elections to noncitizens.

In 2021, the New York City Council voted to allow noncitizens to vote in the Big Apple’s municipal elections. Thankfully, the New York State courts have held this law to violate the state constitution and blocked it from taking effect. The challenge to New York City’s noncitizen voter law succeeded in the trial court and at the Appellate Division. Advocates of the law and the New York City Council, however, have asked the Court of Appeals — New York State’s

highest court — to hear their appeal and allow the law to take effect, so the fight over the permissibility of this horrible New York City law is not over.

While the fight against noncitizen voting has, so far, seen victories in the Empire State, efforts to block noncitizens from the franchise have not been as successful in other states. At least three local governments in Vermont have opened up their municipal elections to noncitizens. Vermont’s highest court, unfortunately, has allowed these local laws to stand.

Because of Washington, D.C.’s unique status, the House of Representatives wisely exercised its Constitutional authority to overturn the District of Columbia’s noncitizen voter law. Because it is not a state, Congress has the Constitutional authority to overturn a harmful and antidemocratic law like Washington, D.C.’s noncitizen voter law.

While House Republicans deserve thanks for passing this commonsense bill last week, much more must be done to preserve the integrity of our electoral system and ensure that only American citizens vote in American elections.

Congress must also approve the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. This recently introduced bill — which enjoys strong support from House Republicans — would amend the National Voter Registration Act to require voters to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote. The SAVE Act would require states to remove noncitizens from voter registration lists. To accomplish this goal, the SAVE Act gives state governments nocost access to Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security databases. The SAVE Act also provides a private right of action so that citizens may sue state governments who fail to uphold their obligation to remove

noncitizens from their voter registration records.

Maintaining the integrity of our elections should not be a partisan issue. Defending democracy should not be a partisan issue. Americans of all political persuasions and ideologies should be able to agree that allowing noncitizens to vote infringes upon every American citizen’s right to vote. The House Republicans were right to vote to overturn Washington D.C.’s noncitizen voter law. The Senate must now do its part and pass this important legislation.

Joseph T. Burns is a Republican election attorney living in Western New York and the former Deputy Director of Election Operations at the New York State Board of Elections. This is the first of a lengthy series in the South Shore Press on Election Integrity. Next week: how the "honor system" allows anyone, regardless of immigration status,tocompleteandsubmitavoter registrationapplication.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Suffolk District Attorney Raymond Tierney and the Fentanyl Summit participants.

Credit: Bayport-Blue Point School District Students thank police for their service to Suffolk County.

Hochul Proposes Smartphone ban in New York Schools

ByDeborahWilliams

Gov. Hochul plans to introduce a bill to ban smartphones in New York schools to “keep children safe and make sure their attention is on learning”.

Hochul believes it can be harmful for kids to scroll through their social media feeds, especially in school. Hochul's proposed bill would prohibit kids from bringing smartphones to school but would allow them to bring "flip phones" that can be used for texting and phone calls. This way, kids can still reach their parents, and parents can be assured that lines of communication are open.

This comes amidst Hochul’s larger efforts to protect kids from what some say are harmful effects of social media. The governor hopes to pass the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) Act in the next session. The SAFE Act places restrictions on social media feeds that she says can harm kids with addictive features and breach the privacy of minor children with data collection tools.

The ban on cell phones in New York City schools ended a decade ago. Hochul aims to reinstate the ban and expand it statewide in the next legislative session.

Some school leaders welcome

it. "It is an issue I’m paying close attention to. I’m glad the governor is making it a priority and having everyone grapple with this,” NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks said. “I get asked so often about mental health issues with kids and what programs we have and I will tell you, the phones seem to be at the top of the list of being problematic in schools."

"It's not surprising that some parents are pushing back. Data shows that about 25% of notifications to teens' phones come during school hours, with many coming from their parents. And, it's not all about parents trying to reach their kids in dangerous situations. Families have come to rely on cell phones for scheduling and other quick communications."

Right now, each school is responsible for setting its cell phone policy. Although many students expressed anxiety about not having their cell phones during the day, the majority said afterward that it was a good thing. The students stated that they engaged in more face-to-face conversations with their friends and were able to concentrate better on their schoolwork.

Hochul says she understands parents' concerns but believes her plan ensures connectivity with parents while safeguarding kids and

maintaining focus at school.

“Let’s talk to parents, let’s talk to educators over the next year and

consider some proposals to have more restrictions,” Hochul said. “I understand parents’ needs and their desire to stay connected during the

day if there’s an emergency. The old-fashioned flip phone will do that if you want to text your family.”

Independent Presidential Hopeful RFK Jr. Files for NY Ballot Access

ByDeborahWilliams

Independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. continues his aggressive campaign to appear on the ballot in all 50 states for the November presidential election.

On the day of the New York deadline, Kennedy submitted 135,519 signatures, which is just over three times the minimum requirement of 45,000 or 1% of the total number of votes in the prior gubernatorial election, whichever is less. Additionally, at least 500 signatures must come from half of the congressional districts in the state.

“The rule of thumb is to file with more than double the minimum signatures required. He did that. So, that’s a good sign. We’ll see how they look. There certainly could be a ton of bad ones in there. But, I’d be happy if I was him that I got more than double the minimum,” said Joseph T. Burns a GOP election lawyer.

Kennedy has qualified for the ballot in seven states: Utah, Michigan, California, Delaware, Oklahoma, Hawaii and Texas. His campaign says they have collected enough signatures to be on the ballot in eight others in addition to New York including New Hampshire, Nevada, North Carolina, Idaho, Nebraska, Iowa, Ohio, and New Jersey.

The clock starts now for objectors to file objections to Kennedy’s petitions. They would need to successfully invalidate 90,000 signatures and work

Albany Looks to Legalize Prostitution

ByDeborahWilliams

New York City is riddled with crime, homelessness, and illegal immigration, and now Albany lawmakers are considering adding illicit prostitution to the list of "allowable crimes."

Senator Liz Krueger (D-28) with Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter (D-128) sponsored the "Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act" (SVSTA) preventing sex workers from being prosecuted and would expunge any past convictions. Pimps and Johns could still be prosecuted.

Democrats are divided on the extent to which prostitution should be legalized, with some advocating for full legalization.

Sen. Julia Salazar (D WF-18), considered a radical Democratic Socialist, and Assemblywoman

Souffrant Forrest (D-57) support a version of the bill that would make certain that no one in the chain of prostituting is criminalized – not the prostitute, the pimp, or the John. They say, “consenting adults who trade sex, collaborate with or support peers, or patronize adult sex workers (should) not be criminalized.”

Krueger and Hunter’s bill “does not protect people, particularly the sex workers.” “Now you’re forcing people to go into hiding, into clandestine, and because you’re charging the john, it still does not remove the stigma,” said Salazar and Forrest.

Salazar and Forrest believe the prostitute is both an independent contractor entrepreneur and a victim of trafficking at the same time.

Both versions of the bill look to

quickly within the timeline for conducting their research and filing objections. Objectors must be registered voters in New York State. Normally these objectors are tied to both political parties who are interested in knocking a competing campaign off the ballot.

Kennedy is suing to remove the heavy burden third-party candidates face in participating in elections. His campaign has spent over $1 million on petition carriers to secure a spot on the ballot in New York. They have filed a lawsuit in Federal court against the New York Board of Elections to contest the 45,000 signature requirement.

“Plaintiff has been forced to pay petition circulators $90.00 per hour, costing Plaintiff over $1 million just to secure ballot access in New York for the 2024

expand on former Gov. Cuomo’s actions that made “loitering for the purpose of prostitution” legal.

Law enforcement and other advocates working to protect

women and girls from sex trafficking witness daily the impact of the passage of any version of this bill.

NYPD Deputy Commissioner,

general election ballot,” Kennedy’s campaign said in the filing.

As we head into June, an average of 167 polls shows Kennedy with 7.9% support, Trump at 41%, and Biden at 40%. Kennedy has not yet secured enough state ballots to have a path to the needed 270 electoral votes. However, if he appears on the ballot in just one of the battleground swing states where the race between Trump and Biden is very close, his presence could be the factor that decides the election.

Political pundits still question whether or not President Biden or former President Trump would gain the most politically from removing Kennedy from the ballot in states nationwide. Polls indicate that Kennedy is taking votes from both candidates, and the numbers change as the campaigning progresses.

Operations Kaz Daughtry, said on X, “The residents of East New York, Brooklyn have had to tolerate openair prostitution, day and night, for far too long. They deserve better — and so do those forced into sex work by way of human trafficking. Together with our partners at the NY FBI, we are conducting what is essentially a rescue mission.”

Candice Grove, owner of CG Strategies said on X, “There’s silence from the far left & socalled ‘feminists’ who promote decriminalizing sex work. In Queens, we have migrant women & CHILDREN involved in the sex trade. I thought about what we should call this: This is SEX SLAVERY. This is their vision of NY.”

Both sides want their version of the Bill to pass by the end of the legislative session on June 6th, 2024.

Credit: Adobe stock image

Smartphone use in schools can be a distraction for students.

Photo Credit: X

Photo Credit: X

RFK Jr. files petitions in New York.

ByDeborahWilliams

Supreme Court Unanimously Rules for NRA — And against New York

The Supreme Court reinstated a lawsuit by the National Rifle Association (NRA), alleging that a New York official violated the group’s First Amendment rights.

In a 9-0 decision written by liberal Justice Sotomayor, the Court threw out a lower court's ruling that had dismissed the NRA's 2018 lawsuit against Maria Vullo, a former superintendent of New York's Department of Financial Services.

The NRA claimed that Vullo had used her regulatory authority to coerce New York financial institutions into cutting ties with the NRA, violating their First Amendment right to free speech without government restrictions.

The Court held that the NRA “plausibly alleged that Vullo violated the First Amendment by coercing DFS-regulated entities to terminate their business relationships with the NRA to punish or suppress the NRA’s advocacy.”

Sotomayor made it clear that Vullo could criticize the NRA and legitimately pursue violation of insurance law but “She could not wield her power

to threaten enforcement actions against [state-]regulated entities to punish or suppress the NRA’s gun-promotion advocacy.”

Sotomayor also noted that the state’s actions against insurance companies appeared to be part of a broader campaign by then Gov. Andrew Cuomo to put the NRA in “financial jeopardy” and “shut them down.”

Justice Sotomayor further wrote for the Court that “at the heart of the First Amendment’s Free Speech Clause is the recognition that viewpoint discrimination is uniquely harmful to a free and democratic society. While a government official can share her views freely and criticize particular beliefs in the hopes of persuading others, she may not use the power of her office to punish or suppress disfavored expression. “

Punishing and suppressing disfavored viewpoints is exactly what Vullo was doing. The court ruled that the NRA had made their case that Vullo threatened to wield her power to punish the NRA's gun-promotion advocacy.

Gerard Kassar, NYS Conservative Party Chairman was thrilled with the Court’s

decision saying, “Today’s decision is a victory for the Constitution and economic freedom in New York. It will allow the NRA to continue pursuing litigation against New York, a state that has utterly forgotten the principles upon which this nation was founded.”

Kassar said, “When the U.S. Supreme Court votes unanimously, it’s clear that an egregious Constitutional violation has occurred. In this case, New York State was caught violating the rights of the National Rifle Association

(NRA) by coercing private businesses to halt commercial dealings with the NRA for political reasons.”

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression hailed the ruling. The group’s chief counsel, Bob Corn-Revere, called Vullo’s conduct “a naked attempt to evade the Constitution. The Court’s unanimous decision sends a clear message that the government cannot use its bully pulpit to censor speech it doesn’t like without violating the First Amendment.”

The case has been returned to the lower court for additional proceedings that comply with the Supreme Court's ruling. This case is receiving a lot of attention due to its resemblance to another case before the court, which involves the Biden administration's attempts to exert undue pressure on social media companies to remove posts allegedly containing misinformation about the coronavirus, elections, and other issues where the Biden administration wanted to control the message.

National Grid Looks to Zap Your Wallet with a Double-Digit Rate Increase

ByDeborahWilliams

National Grid has asked for a 15-20% increase in electric and gas rates for next year.

National Grid filed a plan with the Public Service Commission to “reset” electric and natural gas delivery prices starting in the spring of 2025. The rate increases are part of a proposal National Grid said “would maintain infrastructure, customer service, economic growth, and prepare networks for a transition to clean energy sources."

Many families and small businesses in Center Moriches are struggling to make ends meet. After buying groceries, putting gas in the car, and paying rent, there’s little left over.

Unfortunately for average working people, and thousands of National Grid customers across Suffolk County, money is going to be a touch tighter if New York State approves an almost 20% rate increase the utility company wants to implement next year.

If the Public Service

Commission grants the increase, a typical family would pay $440 a year more for electricity and gas. The rate hike would increase monthly bills to about $19, or 15% for a residential electricity customer. The total gas bill increase for residential gas customers would be about $18, or 20% a month.

This translates to $525 million

more in electrical delivery revenues (20%) and an increase in gas delivery revenues by $148 million (28%). In 2020, National Grid asked for a $142 million increase in electric and gas delivery revenues, and this year, they are asking for $673 million more.

“I can’t afford it. Times are tough. I’m barely able to keep

it together now. $360 doesn’t sound like a lot. But to me that’s a backbreaker,” said Smith to the South Shore Press.

"Rising costs for regular repairs and replacements due to inflation contribute to the rate increase. However, it is undeniable that the Governor's push for all New Yorkers to go all-electric is a significant factor

in the increase. These rate hikes place a financial burden on working families and seniors."

National Grid says, “The power grid requires significant new investments to make way for more electric vehicles, electric-heat buildings, and other elements of New York’s planned transition away from fossil fuels.”

“We know that there is more of a movement toward clean energy in the coming years, we want to make sure that our networks that have served us so well, for 70 years or more, are ready to take on that clean energy and are prepared to take the next steps for customers across upstate New York,” said David Bertola from National Grid.

As for Sally Smith, she’s hopeful New York State will resoundingly reject National Grid’s rate increase, despite the utility’s strong argument on why it is necessary.

“I understand their costs are going up as well. I get it. That still doesn’t mean I’ll be able to afford it,” concluded Smith to the South Shore Press.

Photo Credit: Supreme Court Portrait

Photo Credit: National Grid

The justices of the U.S. Supreme Court at the Supreme Court Building in Washington.

Field of power lines.

Guest Editorial: Contract from the American People

Op-edby JoeFromTexas

Can we solve our country’s problems by taxing the rich?

President Biden is well known for his political talking point that the rich should “pay their fair share” of taxes. This is interesting because wealthy elitists comprise a sizable portion of Biden’s political base. The mystery as to why this base would enthusiastically support a man who claims that he wishes to raise taxes on them is part of an interesting answer to the question of whether taxing the rich is the key to solving the fiscal problems of the United States.

Let’s start with a quick background on taxes, specifically taxes on people in the upper income brackets. When Ronald Reagan took office in 1981, inflation was nearly 10%, taxes were high, and the economy was struggling. Reagan led the effort for a tax cut that brought the top tax rate down from 70% to 50%. Additionally, inflation was tamed during Reagan’s first term, and the combination of the tax cuts and lower inflation led to a thriving economy by 1984. Some people credit the Federal Reserve action on interest rates at that time for the booming economy, and certainly lower interest rates played a role; however, a June 2022 CATO

Institute article makes a solid case that Reagan policies, including the tax cuts, were the main reason the economy took off.

It is important to understand, as the St. Louis Fed (SLF) points out, that the bulk of taxes in the U.S. are based on earned incomemeaning money that is earned from a job or self-employment. In a 2019 report, the SLF outlined that the government took in $3.5 trillion that year, noting that the main sources of this revenue were from payroll taxes on income.

The taxation on earned income brings us to why Joe Biden’s super rich supporters do not seem to be worried when he talks about raising their income taxes. Since taxes are usually based on income, rather than assets, the super-wealthy often get paid in ways other than taxable income. For example, Apple CEO Tim Cook had a salary of $3 million last year. His overall compensation package was about $63 million, and the bulk of this came by way of Apple stock.

Why take stock as pay instead of cash? One answer is to save on taxes. As a 2024 Vox article points out, “Stocks aren’t taxed until they’re sold - and even then, what’s taxed is the profit on the sale, called a capital gains tax. Billionaires (usually) don’t sell valuable stock. So how do they afford the daily expenses of life, whether it’s a new pleasure

boat or a social media company? They borrow against their stock. This revolving door of credit allows them to buy what they want without incurring a capital gains tax.” The article goes on to state that the wealthy have ways of getting very good interest rates on such loans, even in today’s inflationary environment.

The above example is just one of many ways in which the wealthy avoid paying taxes. It also illustrates the point that they have accountants and lawyers who are very adept at finding ways to help them legally minimize what they pay in taxes. Interestingly, even if this were not so, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget concluded several years ago that

taxing the super-wealthy would not provide enough money to solve the U.S. debt problem.

In December 2023, the Peterson Foundation highlighted a study by Brian Riedl of the Manhattan Institute. This study asserted that taxes on the wealthy would not solve U.S. debt problems, but it could be part of a solution that looks at “every tool in the toolbox.” Riedl took into account behavior changes that could occur with tax increases and how these would impact the economy. He concluded the key is to avoid raising taxes too much, or in such a way that resulting behavior changes lead to a decrease in economic growth. “Riedl contends that the point is not that tax rates should never rise; however, the

broader economic implications of each tax must be weighed and traded off with federal spending goals.” The Peterson Foundation labels tax policy that takes into account real world reactions, as Riedl suggests, “smart tax policy.”

The problem with implementing “smart tax policy” is that this will have to be accomplished by Congress, and most people doubt their ability to take on and solve tough problems. In a Gallup survey in late 2023, the approval rating of Congress had fallen to just 13%. The voters don’t seem to have much faith in President Biden either. His latest approval rating is less than 39%.

This lack of trust in our politicians is why I have joined David M. Walker, former Comptroller General of the United States, and others in drafting the Contract from the American People. A part of the contract calls for an independent Fiscal Commission to examine our nation’s finances and make recommendations. This group would make such recommendations with significant public input and do so in a way that would require Congress to take action. Our debt is a ticking bomb and failure to take action will jeopardize the future prosperity of every American.

Please visit JoeFromTexas.com to read the contract and learn more about how you can join us in this effort.

Photo Credit: Photovs | Dreamstime.com

VETERANS WAY

BY REV. FREDERICK MILLER, PH.D.

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

The original pledge of allegiance was written by Francis Bellamy, September 8, 1892. He was a Baptist minister's son from upstate New York. Educated in public schools, he distinguished himself in oratory at the University of Rochester before following his father to the pulpit, preaching at churches in New York and Boston. In 1891, he accepted a job from one of his Boston congregants, Daniel S. Ford, editor of the "Youth's Companion," a family magazine with half a million subscribers.

Assigned to the magazine's promotions department, the 37-year-old Bellamy set to work arranging a patriotic program for schools around the country. They coincided with the opening ceremonies for the Columbian

"One Nation Under God"

Exposition in October 1892, the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the New World. Bellamy successfully lobbied Congress for a resolution endorsing the school ceremony, and he helped convince President Benjamin Harrison to issue a proclamation declaring a Columbus Day

holiday.

A key element of the commemorative program was to be a new salute to the flag for schoolchildren to recite in unison: "I pledge allegiance to my flag and the Republic for which it stands—one Nation indivisible—with liberty and

justice for all." (Bellamy later added the "to" before "the Republic" for better cadence.)

Millions of schoolchildren nationwide took part in the 1892 Columbus Day ceremony, according to the "Youth's Companion." Bellamy said he heard the pledge for the first

time that day, October 21, when "4,000 high school boys in Boston roared it out together."

But no sooner had the pledge taken root in schools when the fiddling with it began. In 1923, a National Flag Conference, presided over by the American Legion and the Daughters of the American Revolution, ordered that "my flag" should be changed to "the flag of the United States," lest immigrant children be unclear just which flag they were saluting. The following year, the Flag Conference refined the phrase further, adding "of America."

A decade later, following a lobbying campaign by the Knights of Columbus—a Catholic fraternal organization— and others, Congress approved the addition of the words "under God" within the phrase "one nation indivisible." On June 14, 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower signed the bill into law.

Help is available to you by calling the local VA hospital in Northport, (631) 261-4400, or Veterans Crisis Line 1 (800) 273-8255 Press 1 to talk to a veteran or have a confidential chat at veteranscrisisline.net or text to 838255. If you have any questions relating to veteran problems, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to answer it. Contact us at drfred72@gmail.com.

HISTORY LESSONS

BY RICHARD ACRITELLI

“Honor to the Soldier, and Sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause. Honor also to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field, and serves, as he best can, the same cause -- honor to him, only less than to him, who braves, for the common good, the storms of heaven and the storms of battle.”

- President Abraham Lincoln, 1863Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been a troubling condition that American combat service members have dealt with since the creation of this nation. Years ago, there was virtually no treatment for veterans, as it is believed that 7 out of 100 veterans deal with PTSD-related situations. This medical and military situation was labeled as “shell shock” toward the challenging mental and physical conditions that hurt American service members. Veterans were instructed not to speak about these situations and to simply “forget” about their wartime encounters.

Frank Asselta was a combat medic who served at the height of the Vietnam War. A young man from Rocky Point, he graduated from Port Jefferson in 1963. After attending Suffolk Community College, in 1965 he was drafted into the United

States Army and deployed to South Vietnam. Asselta represents the largest and oldest class of veterans in America that fought in this war from 1963-1973.

In South Vietnam, he fought alongside the infantry and cared for his fellow soldiers, once they became casualties during the fighting. Stationed northwest of Saigon at Tay Ninh, there were constant enemy movements near the Cambodian border. Serving in Reconnaissance, Asselta’s unit was ambushed every time in the field, and they prevented 4,000 Vietnamese enemy soldiers from taking over several American base camps. Asselta was wounded in combat, and he received the Bronze Star for his dual capacities of fighting the enemy and treating his own men

under the duress of warfare.

PTSD Is a Battle Worth Winning

Out of the 2.7 million American citizens that fought in South Vietnam, there are many veterans who battle trauma as they get older. Asselta fought two battles, the first against the communists in Vietnam and secondly his internal war against PTSD. This past Sunday, May 26th, Asselta was the driving force behind the VFW Post 6249 PTSD Joseph Dwyer 5K Race at Rocky Point High School at 11 a.m. Asselta believes “all members of the Armed Forces who have been in combat need to be properly supported by our citizens. This run is a reminder to take care of all veterans who battle the difficulties of PTSD, and I am proud of this mission to never forget about those veterans who are forced to deal with this condition.” VFW Post 6249 Commander Joseph A. Cognitore marvels at the “immense energy” that Asselta regularly displays to ensure the success of this race to help our local veterans.

Organized on Sunday, May 26th, VFW Post 6249 had a successful run with 100 runners and 20 walkers who hit the roads, trails, hills, and fields of Rocky Point High School and Conservation Area. For the third year, there has been tremendous participation from the athletic and veterans’ community to aid the goal of providing comfort for our veterans and families that deal with the concerns of PTSD.

Armed with a big smile, Asselta is already looking forward to next year’s VFW PTSD run. Suffolk County Legislature Chad Lennon, a Major in the United States Marine Corps Reserves participated in this strenuous race. Lennon believed, “The Dwyer Run is an opportunity for our community to come together and honor the legacy of our community hero. It is an honor to run in this event every year and let those who are struggling with PTSD know they are not alone.” Wading River resident, runner, and Commack educator Tom Stevens said it best, “So happy and proud to be part of this event again this year. Love supporting our veterans and remembering those who are lost.”

Photo Credit: History.com

Students recite the "Pledge of Allegiance."

Photo Credit: Jane Sandusky | Facebook

Frank Asselta - Vietnam circa 1966, 196 Light Infantry, 4/31 recon, combat medical, Bronze Star with Valor

Frank Asselta today.

PFC Joseph P Dwyer PTSD Memorial 5k Run group photo.

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

We all know the daunting statistics about the probability of marital success. Even for our children who are in happy marriages, we do not know what the future holds. Building protection from divorce into your estate plan is a great idea.

New York follows the laws of equitable distribution in divorce, it is not a community property state. Under this law, “marital property” is broadly defined as property acquired by one or both spouses during the marriage. “Separate property” is defined as property acquired by an individual prior to marriage. Inheritance, gifts received from individuals other than one’s spouse, and personal injury compensation are also considered to be separate property. Separate property is not subject to Equitable Distribution. When a couple gets divorced, the court

attempts to divide the marital property as fairly and equally as possible. This doctrine of Equitable Distribution considers factors such as the length of the marriage, age and health of each party, and the earning power of each spouse.

The inclusion of inherited assets in the definition of separate property is good news but not always sufficient to protect your beneficiary. Separate property can become marital property if it is “commingled” with marital property. Use of separate property for marital needs can also remove the separate status and subject it to equitable distribution. If your child chooses to deposit the inheritance into a joint account with a spouse, or use inherited assets to purchase a home titled jointly with the spouse, the assets would then be considered marital property.

The fear of commingling assets

Protecting an Inheritance from Marital Woes

is the reason we often recommend clients leave a child’s inheritance in a trust. Depending on the circumstances, you could name your child to serve as their own trustee or appoint a third party to be trustee. The terms of the trust

could limit distributions in a way that protects the beneficiary from creditors, including a divorcing spouse. The trust adds a layer of protection for these assets, thereby maintaining its status as separate property.

The protection goes further than the divorcing spouse. Your beneficiary can be insulated from any creditor. For some, this is the potential need for long-term care assistance through the Medicaid program long after you are gone.

Beyond the protection for your child, the trust also allows you to control how the property is distributed after the death of you and your child. By directing remaining assets pass to whomever you wish. This could be your grandchildren, your other children, or your favorite charity.

Britt Burner, Esq., is an attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., focusing her practice on Elder Law and Estate Planning. Burner Prudenti Law serves clients from Manhattan to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, New York City and East Hampton.

Photo Credit: Pattanaphong Khuankaew | Dreamstime.com

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE

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

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 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

CANCELED

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

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT:

SUFFOLK COUNTY. NEWREZ LLC

D/B/A SHELLPOINT

MORTGAGE SERVICING, Pltf. vs. ROSE MARY

HOLDORF AKA ROSE

M. HOLDORF, et al, Defts. Index #610086/2022.

Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 5, 2024, I will sell at public auction at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on July 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. premises k/a 36 Sheridan Road, Shirley, NY 11967. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Mastic in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200, Section 983.30, Block 02.00, Lot 012.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $284,170.70 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. GIUSEPPE ROSINI, Referee. PINCUS LAW GROUP, PLLC, Attys. for Pltf., 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556. File No. 12102020.48377#101474

L15935-6/5/2024,6/12/2024, 6/19/2024&6/26/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR TRUMAN 2016 SC6 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. MIGUEL ALVAREZ A/K/A MIGUEL S. ALVAREZ, Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 22, 2022 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on March 29, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on July 10, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., premises known as 9 Dourland Road n/k/a 16 Dourland Road, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings

and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at West Yaphank in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 545.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 023.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $301,952.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609098/2020. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale.

Richard A. Kaufman, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 193357-1

L15936 - 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024, 6/19/2024 & 6/26/2024

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

JAMES B. NUTTER & COMPANY, -against-

VINCENT CELLI, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAPHAEL CELLI, 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 August 3, 2023, wherein JAMES B. NUTTER & COMPANY is the Plaintiff and VINCENT CELLI, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAPHAEL CELLI, 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 8, 2024 at 12:30PM, premises known as 3 STAR COURT EAST, PATCHOGUE, NY 11772; and the following tax map identification: 0200-898.0002.00-093.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS

AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 069343/2014. 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.

L15937 - 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024, 6/19/2024 & 6/26/2024

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, A FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK

D/B/A CHRISTIANA

TRUST, A DIVISION OF WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS TRUSTEE FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE KNOXVILLE 2012 TRUST,

Plaintiff, Against

DAVID RUSSELL

GUGGENHEIM A/K/A

DAVID R. GUGGENHEIM

A/K/A DAVID

GUGGENHEIM; PATRICIA

SUE GUGGENHEIM

A/K/A PATRICIA

S. GUGGENHEIM

A/K/A PATRICIA

GUGGENHEIM; ET AL

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 02/16/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction,

at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 7/9/2024 at 11:00am, premises known as 381 Grace Street, Holbrook, NY 11741, 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 Village Of Holbrook, Town Of Islip, County Of Suffolk And State Of New York.

District 0500 Section 152.00 Block 02.00 Lot 021.000 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $537,835.53 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 613334/2018

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee.

Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504

Dated: 4/29/24 File Number: 6884571 SH

L15938 - 6/5/2024, 6/12/2024, 6/19/2024 & 6/26/2024

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

MASTIC FIRE DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that SEALED PROPOSALS for:

MASTIC FIRE DISTRICT

General Improvements at Headuarters

H2M Project No.: MCFD 2401

Single Prime Contract

Will be received until 3:30pm prevailing time on Monday, 24 June 2024, at the Office of the Commissioners’, located at 1080 Mastic Road, Mastic, New York 11950. Proposals will be opened at 7:00pm prevailing time on Monday, 24 June 2024 at District Headquarters, 1080 Mastic Road, Mastic, New York 11950.

Complete digital sets of Bidding Documents, Drawings and Specifications, may be obtained online as a download at the following website: melville. h2mplanroom.com beginning Monday, 03 June 2024.

Complete sets of Bidding Documents, Drawings and Specifications, may be obtained from REVplans, 28 Church Street, Unit

7, Warwick, NY 10990

Tel: 1-877-272-0216, upon depositing the sum of $100 (One Hundred Dollars) for each combined set of documents. Checks or money orders shall be made payable to the MASTIC FIRE DISTRICT. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms in the Instructions to Bidders to all submitting bids. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs.

Please note REVplans (melville.h2mplanroom. com) is the designated location and means for distributing and obtaining all bid package information. Only those Contract Documents obtained in this manner will enable a prospective bidder to be identified as an official plan holder of record. The Provider takes no responsibility for the completeness of Contract Documents obtained from other sources. Contract Documents obtained from other sources may not be accurate or may not contain addenda that may have been issued.

All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at melville. h2mplanroom.com. Plan holders who have paid for hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda.

Bids must be made in the standard proposal form in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications that must be enclosed in sealed envelopes bearing the name of the job and name and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to: MASTIC FIRE DISTRICT, clearly marked on the outside: Bid For: General Improvements at Headquarters.

Each proposal submitted

must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond, made payable to the MASTIC FIRE DISTRICT, in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid, as a commitment by the bidder that, if its bid is accepted, it will enter into a contract to perform the work and will execute such further security as may be required for the faithful performance of the contract. Certification of bonding company is required for this bid, see Instructions for Bidders section. Each bidder shall agree to hold his/her bid price for forty five (45) days after the formal bid opening.

A pre-bid meeting and walk thru is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, 11 June 2024. Potential bidders are asked to gather at the project site, at which time they will be escorted to the areas of work. This meeting is not mandatory; however, it is highly recommended that all potential bidders attend.

It is the Board of Fire Commissioners intention to award the contracts to the lowest qualified bidder who can meet the experience, technical and budget requirements. The Board of Fire Commissioners reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive any informality and to accept such bid which, in the opinion of the Board of Fire Commissioners, is in the best interests of the District.

Bids include all costs associated with the project. By submitting a bid, the bidder represents that they are familiar with the site and project conditions. Additionally, prior to submitting its bid, Contractor shall make Architect and Owner aware of any problems and/or inconsistencies in the bid documents.

Mastic Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners Town of Brookhaven Issue Date: May 2024

L15939-6/5/2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN

SOUTH SHORE PRESS

PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE IV, SEC. 85-55 (B) OF THE BUILDING ZONE ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS WILL, IN ACCORDANCE WITH OPEN MEETINGS LAW, HOLD THE FOLLOWING, AT ONE INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, N.Y.:

1. A PUBLIC HEARING ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12, 2024 (2ND FLOOR AUDITORIUM)

COMMENCING AT 2:00 P.M. (THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE LIVE STREAMED OVER THE INTERNET AT https://brookhavenny. portal.civicclerk.com, TO CONSIDER THE MATTERS LISTED

BELOW and 2. A WORKSESSION ON JUNE 12, 2024, (PUBLIC DINING AREA 2ND FLOOR)

COMMENCING AT THE END OF THE CALL OF THE PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR, TO DISCUSS THE DECISION

CALENDAR

2. Javed Mahmood, 8 Merrick Rd., Shirley, NY.

Location: South side Merrick Rd., 358.92' East Smith Rd., Shirley . Applicant requests minimum side yard variance for existing one story residence addition; side yard variance for existing 2nd story deck. (0200 93600 0100 004000)

3. Craig and Toni Witham, 192 Dahlia Dr, Mastic Beach, NY. Location: West side of Lakeside Trail opposite and West side of Manhasset Trail terminus, Ridge. Applicant requests permission for proposed 35' wide driveway (24' wide permitted); side yard variance for existing rear roof over. (0200 19400 0400 005001)

6. Shawn Vazquez, c/o Christine Nicholl 18 Railroad Ave, Center Moriches , NY.

Location: South side Beverly Ln., 152.52' West of Pine Edge Dr., East Moriches. Applicant requests rear yard, minimum and total side yard variances for proposed attached garage. (0200 79700 0100 019000)

8. Daniel Reardon, 341 West 24th St., Apt. 5A, New York, NY. Location:

East side Lakeview Dr., 160' South of Aspen Rd., Mastic Beach. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage, front yard setback, rear yard, minimum and total side yard variances for proposed one family dwelling (conversion of masonry garage to residence) on a 40 ft. lot. (0200 97910 0800 002000)

9. Lake Hill Homes II LLC, 779 Horseblock Rd., Farmingville, NY. Location: North side Eleanor Ave., 200' East of Edgewood St., Mastic. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage, front yard setback, rear yard, minimum and total side yard variances for proposed one family dwelling on a 50 ft. lot. (0200 91000 0300 033000)

16. Leonard Novara, 61 Seacliff Ave., Miller Place, NY. Location: North side Seacliff Ave., 200' West of Gully Landing Rd., Miller Place. Applicant requests minimum and total side yard variances for existing attached garage; front yard setback variance for existing deck with steps; side yard variances for existing 2nd story deck (above garage) and roof over (bar and BBQ). (0200 01100 0400 009000)

18. Shawn Kruk, c/o Chris Nicholl, 18 Railroad Ave., Center Moriches, NY. Location: North side Riverside Ave., 2850' East of Market St., Mastic Beach. Applicant requests side yard variances for existing inground swimming pool (not built in conformance with permit #166741), existing pool deck, existing front deck and existing enclosed porch; also, permission for existing one story residence addition attaching existing detached garage converted to habitable space to dwelling on a 50 ft. lot (not permitted). (0200 94000 0500 008000)

19. Mark & Alexis Furia, c/o Christine Nicholl, 18 Railroad Ave., Center Moriches, NY. Location: Southwest corner of Brenda Ln. and Manor Hills Dr., Manorville. Applicant requests front yard setback from Brenda Lane and rear yard variances for existing detached garage and existing shed with attached deck both located in the front yard (Brenda Lane); height variance for existing 6 ft. high fence located in the front yard (Manor Hills Dr.). (0200 56000 0500 005000)

21. Lawrence & Kim

Nostramo, 14 Stanley Ct., Ronkonkoma, NY.

Location: South side Stanley Ct.,126.40' East of Stanley Ct., Ronkonkoma. Applicant requests rear yard and side yard variances for proposed inground swimming pool. (0200 72600 0200 033000)

22. Bushwick 79 LLC, c/o Andrew Malguarnera 713

Main St, Port Jefferson, NY. Location: North side Moriches Middle Island Rd., 169.54 East of Avondale Dr., Shirley. Applicant requests side yard variance for existing detached garage located in the required side yard. (0200 64300 0100 014000)

23. Robert Ray, c/o Andrew Malguarnera 713

Main St., Port Jefferson, NY . Location: Northwest side Zenith Rd., 143' West of Xyris Rd., Rocky Point. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage, front yard setback, and rear yard variances for proposed one family dwelling. (0200 03400 0600 075001)

AMENDMENT:

#11 (originally of 3/27/24)

Breskin Realty Associates, LLC, 500 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY. Location: South side Rt. 25A 838' West of Miller Place Rd., Miller Place. Applicant requests height variances for proposed 23’6” high, 168 sq. ft. wall sign on east elevation, 21’9” high, 145.3 sq. ft. wall sign on north elevation and 22’6” high, 168 sq. ft. wall sign on west elevation (18’ high, 80 sq. ft. permitted on each elevation); also, permission for 2 ground signs (1 permitted - 1 existing & 1 proposed). (0200 11900 0100 003006)

CASES WILL BE HEARD AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD.

HOWARD M. BERGSON CHAIRMAN

L15940-6/5/2024

25. Anthony Kudreyko, 52 Manhasset Dr., Mastic Beach, NY. Location: Northwest corner of Babylon Rd. and Manhassett Dr., Mastic Beach. Applicant requests front yard setback variance from Manhasset Dr. for existing deck. (0200 98340 1100 041000)

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BY

The NBA Finals are set and we have a total contrast in teams. Usually those kinds of differences between teams gunning for a championship lead to plenty of opportunities for sports bettors to make some money. This year is no different as we have the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks playing for the title.

The Boston Celtics are supposed to be here. They were the preseason conference favorites and didn't disappoint. Boston upped their game once they hit the postseason with a 12-2 playoff record after dominating the regular slate of games. Boston won 64 games with the league's top-ranked offense, scoring 123 points per game, and the #3 overall defense, holding teams to just over 111 points per game. They also don't seem to care about the venue because they have an 8-game road winning streak going for

them as well.

Dallas nearly had to play in the play-in tournament to be in this spot. The Mavs have a superstar in Luka Doncic, but many NBA fans would be hard-pressed to name more players than just him. This Mavs team excelled when it counted though and have relied upon Luka and the offense all season long. Dallas finished with a top 10 offense during the year and they were led by eye-popping numbers from their superstar. Luka averaged 28.8 points per game, 9.6 rebounds per game, 8.8 assists per game, and made nearly 3 1/2 three-pointers per game during the playoffs.

For that reason, there should be no other choice for MVP if you like Dallas. There is no world where the Mavericks upset the Celtics and Luka doesn't completely take over games and take home the award.

Let's Cash Those Celtics Tickets

At +220, he isn't getting much value back, but if you like Dallas that is your only play for MVP. On the other side, Jason Tatum is getting the most MVP bets and money coming in. Tatum is the Celtics superstar and it makes sense, but Brown just won the

conference MVP and White and company all contribute, so it's a little riskier if you are backing Boston.

During the Finals, there always seems to be a prop play or two that bettors can capitalize on. This Finals is no different

where Luka to make the most three pointers is set at +120 in most sports books. If you believe that Boston wins and double teams him to keep him in check, or even if you buy into the Dallas Cinderella story, this is a solid plus money bet.

That brings us to the prediction and is it worth the risk. Simply put, yes it is. The Celtics are far and away the better team and -220 to win the series isn't too large of a line to take. Boston has the better offense, better defense, home court advantage and the only reason this team is -300 or more is because of how good Doncic can be. The Celtics will make it a very conscious effort to use their elite defense against Luka and while we probably won't see a sweep, the Celtics should handle this series and lift the trophy at the end. Thus, cashing tickets for everyone who isn't scared off by the -220 line.

SPORTS The Mustangs Race To A Three Peat

ByTomBarton

The Mount Sinai Boys’ Track & Field team now has a three-peat in their trophy case.

The team won their third consecutive County Championship title. The team was led by first place finishes from Jess Joe Augustine in the 3200 meter, 1600 meter and 3000 Steeplechase. Liam Metzler took home first in the Long Jump. Tyler Zahra won the Shot Put and Johnny Cuomo also secured first place in the Pole Vault.

Flood and Mideulla Lead EastportSouth Manor

ByTomBarton

The Eastport-South Manor school district has won another championship.

There were also a number of top 3 finishes. Liam Metzler had two events where he ended up in second place and added a 3rd place ribbon to his day. Anthony Delgandio, Logan Korakis, and Caden Smith also were able to bring back a 3rd place finish.

With a team full of All-Star quality athletes, there was no shortage of All-County honors. They went to Jess Joe Augustine, Caden Smith, Logan Korakis, Anthony Delgandio, Liam Metzler, Tyler Zahra and Johnny Cuomo.

SWR Has an MVP

ByTomBarton Shoreham-Wading River's

Gordon

is the Suffolk County League VII MVP.

Votruba's stats jumped off the page this season both with the bat, but especially with his pitching prowess. Votruba amassed a 5-2 record on the hill to go along with his 1.65 ERA. In his 46 innings pitched, he struck out 52 batters and his pinpoint control led to him walking on 3 batters all season long.

Votruba's season hit it's pinnacle in early May when he pitched a no-hitter against Glenn. In that effort, he struck out 12 and was one hit batsman away from a perfect game. He also had three hits in that game and on the season he was almost as proficient with the bat as he was

on the mound. He finished the season with a .439 batting average to go along with a .667 slugging percentage. He slugged 7 doubles, 2 triples, and added 1 home run with 29 RBIs.

In addition to Votruba winning the league MVP award, he also has been selected as a finalist for the Carl Yastrzemski award. The Yastrzemski award is given each year to the most outstanding baseball player in Suffolk County. He would join a prestigious list of winners from Shoreham-Wading River. In 1987, Keith Osik took home the honor. Then in 2012, Mike O'Reilly won the award and most recently Brian Morell took home the trophy in back-to-back seasons in 2016 and 2017.Suffolk has been giving out the award for 56 years.

The varsity boys track team won the 2024 Suffolk County Spring Track championship this week. The athletes successfully beat the competition at Kings Park High School.

The boys were led by a 1st place finish from Justin Albanese who had a time of 1:59:06 in the 800 meter finals. He wasn't the only name from Eastport-South Manor who excelled in the 800 meter as Cooper Nedvin finished 3rd and Christian Capolino ended the race in 5th place.

There were two clear standouts in many categories that propelled them to the title. Jaden Flood finished 3rd in the Pentathlon 1500 meter race and Aidan

ended up in 6th place. Flood also had the fastest time in the Pentathlon finals with Mideulla finishing 4th overall.

The duo also ended up in 7th and 8th place in the Shot Put finals and 2nd and 3rd in the Long Jump Finals. They also took home first and fifth in the High Jump.

In other races in the boys 1600 meter race,

and

in 3rd, 4th and 5th place with Cooper Nedvin coming in 10th. While in the Triple Jump, Aidan Murfitt and Garrett Bollinger placed 5th and 7th.

Suffolk Baseball Reigns Supreme

ByTomBarton

Suffolk County baseball has been in the headlines all year on Long Island and they culminated a fantastic season with multiple Long island Championships.

The Kings Park Kingsmen were the first team to punch their ticket as Long Island champs when they defeated Clarke 3-2 this weekend. The Kingsmen won in dramatic fashion as a 9th inning walk-off balk was called to hand them the title.

Star pitcher Hunter Colagrande was injured early in the game, but still went on to pitch one run ball through 7 innings. With the victory, Kings Park claimed their first title since 2001 and just their second championship in the school's history.

Hauppauge also won their Long island title this weekend. Matt Neglia led the way with a fantastic pitching effort in a 4-3 win over Division. The

Eagles relied on Neglia to pitch out of trouble all game long and despite his 10 hits allowed he went the distance for the title.

Hauppauge secured their 21st win on the season and hadn't been to the Long Island title game in 24 years.

While Hauppauge and Kings Park haven't had a championship in a while, winning titles has become a trend for the Commack baseball team and their superstar pitcher.

Commack won their

second straight Long Island Championship and their 3rd win in the last four years. Evan Kay was dominant as usual in the victory. Kay, the Suffolk Pitcher of the Year, struck out 11 batters, walking none and allowed just 4 hits en route to his complete game win.

The Cougars needed his spectacular effort as they beat Farmingdale 2-1. Now, all three teams will head upstate to play for state championships at Mirabito Stadium in Binghamton this week.

Mideulla

Sean O'Neill, Justin Albanese,

Paul Zorn finished

Credit: Jessica Novins

Eastport-South Manor Track & Field Team

Votruba

Credit: Shoreham Wading River Wildcat Athletic Booster Club | Facebook Gordon Votruba

Photo Credit: Mount Sinai School District | Facebook Mount Sinai Mustangs Track Team

Hauppague Baseball Team

Kings Park Baseball Team

Photo Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook

Photo Credit: Kings Park School District | Facebook

SPORTS Rocky Point Eagles Athletes Soar into The Future

ByTomBarton

This week Rocky Point High School recognized 11 of their seniors at a commemorative college commitment day to celebrate the next chapter of their academic and athletic careers.

Rocky Point welcomed the students, family members, coaches and administrators together to celebrate their achievements. These athletes not only excelled at their respective sports but also continued to impress academically while juggling an athletic schedule.

The event was hosted by Jonathon Rufa, the district’s director of health, physical education, intramurals and athletics.Mr. Rufa shared highlights of each students’ high school athletic career before inviting them to each sign a pledge to continue to be stellar representatives of the Rocky Point school community.

This is the list of each athlete and which schools they have selected to continue their careers with:

Ariana Amato, cheerleading,

Long Island University

Matthew Armstrong, soccer, SUNY Old Westbury

Jack Ferrie, soccer, Suffolk County Community College

Jeremy Graham, baseball, Hudson Valley Community College

Jack Hopkins, baseball, University of Mount Saint Vincent

Julia Koprowski, basketball, SUNY Farmingdale State College

Suffolk's All-Stars Shine

ByTomBarton

This season was a season of many firsts for the Suffolk County Unified Basketball league and this week many players had a taste of their first all-star game.

The Section XI Unified Basketball Players invited the best players from Suffolk to compete in the All-Star Game hosted by Patchogue-Medford High School.

Makayla Style, dance, University of South Carolina

Katelyn Tilmont, soccer, SUNY Buffalo State University

Riley Trentowski, cross country/ track, East Stroudsburg University

Ella Velazquez, cheerleading, Hofstra University

Alexandra Viera, wrestling, Sacred Heart University

The Unified Basketball league has shined a light on inclusiveness within the athletic world and the light that has come from the players has been unmatched. From first baskets to undefeated seasons, the year has been surrounded

by nothing but positivity and this game put an exclamation point on the standout players seasons.

Sachem Softball Takes The Long Island Championship

ByTomBarton

Sachem East softball made history this week as they captured their first ever Long Island Championship. Sachem East defeated Oceanside in a big time pitchers dual 2-0 to secure the title.

Once again, Sachem relied heavily on their superstar pitcher Olivia DeRose, and she did not disappoint. DeRose allowed just five hits to go along with her eight strikeouts in the shutout. DeRose has now pitched back-toback-to-back shutouts en route to a Suffolk County championship and now the Long Island crown. She has not allowed a run in the past three games and her win total is at an outstanding 18 for

the season. As a team, Sachem has now played 31 playoff innings and they have allowed just a single run.

While DeRose certainly was center stage and the superstar, eighth-grader Madison Fisher became the hero for Sachem. Fisher cracked a two-strike, twoout, two-run single with the bases loaded in the bottom of the sixth inning to right field, breaking the game open and giving the Arrows the win.

Sachem will now play the winner of Lancaster/Fairport in the New York State Class AAA semifinal on Friday, June 7, at 1:30 p.m. at Martha Avenue. Sachem will be trying to create even more history by winning their first New York state softball title.

The team finished the regular season 6-1 overall and 6-1 in division. They outscored their opponents 52-11 in

Rocky Point High School's recognized student athletes.

Photo Credit: Rocky Point Schools | Facebook

The Sachem Softball team show off their Suffolk and Long Island Championship trophies.

Photo Credit: Sachemreport.com

The Unified Basketball All-Stars

Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook

ByTomBarton

The Sayville girls golf team are champions of Suffolk County. The team was led by coach Tim Dillon and featured Lizzie Kiernan-Mulhill, Ryan O'Connell, Hailey Keyser,

Hannah Niggemeier, Celli Howland, and Meg O'Mara.

dominating fashion.

Photo Credit: sectionxi athletics | Facebook

The Sayville Girls Golf Team

The Panthers Claw to a Long Island Championship

ByTomBarton

The Miller Place softball team continues to win and now they are headed to the state tournament.

The Panthers won their first Suffolk County title since 2021 last week and now will play for the state title. After defeating Islip 4-1 and winning the Suffolk County Class A championship, they continued their winning ways with a 7-4 victory over Seaford to capture the Long Island Championship.

Emily Lopez was the hero for Miller Place. Lopez came up with the score tied and runners on

second and third. Needing to just push the runner across, Lopez singled to drive in Ava Zicchinelli and the Panthers never looked back. The Panthers leaned on their Suffolk County standout pitcher Ava Zicchinelli once again as Seaford wasn't able to even get a hit off of her through 5 innings.

This was the Panthers’ first Long Island title in program history. They now will play for the NYSPHSAA state championship which is being held in Suffolk County on June 7th and 8th at the Martha Avenue complex in Bellport.

Simp-Ellie the Best

ByTomBarton

Ellie Masera keeps racking up the awards and she can add a very prestigious one to the mantle.

Masera has won the ECAC Sports Offensive Player of the Year award. Masera, who is also a finalist for the Tewaarton Award, was also named to the All ECAC team this week. She is joined by her teammates Kailyn Hart and Avery Hines.

Masera's numbers were as good as anyones in the county this season. She was 2nd in the nation in points with 117, which was not only first in the CAA, but also set

Bellport Track Become The Fastest In 30 Years

ByStefanMychajliw

The Bellport High School’s boys varsity 4x400 team broke a 30year school record at the North Shore Invitational on May 11.

The team, made up of Arthur Henry, Raymond Kreamer, Josiah Salomon, and Jovhan Salomon, ran the relay in an impressive firstplace time of 3:23.28.

The team currently holds the fastest time on Long Island going into the spring postseason.

Cassidy Weeks Helps BC to The Title

ByTomBarton

When the Boston College Eagles defeated Northwestern to become the women’s lacrosse champions this season, it was especially nice for Long Islanders because of their local stars.

The #2 seeded Eagles came back from a 6-0 deficit and went on to defeat the reigning champion Wildcats, who were ranked #1 in the nation. The 14-13 final gave

Photo Credit: @StonyBrookWLAX | X

a single-season record. Masera also ended with 77 goals, which was good for 5th in the country and 1st in the CAA. Her 40 assists put her 3rd in the CAA and she finished 2nd in the CAA with 145 Draw Controls.

Masera will have her name etched in Stony Brook's record books forever as well. She became just the 5th player in SeaWolves history to score 300 career points and just the 6th player in the school's history to rack up 200 goals. She is the program record holder for Draw Controls in a single game as well as the most in history.

the Eagles the NCAA Division 1 championship and their second national championship in seven straight trips to the title game. This was revenge for BC as Northwestern beat them badly last season 18-6 in the title game.

This year's team featured many Long Islanders on both squads.

Northwestern has three players from the area while Boston College rostered seven. Cassidy Weeks came back for her graduate season

and now has a championship banner to her credit for playing the extra year. The midfielder went to Bayport-Blue Point with her twin sister Courtney, who also played for Boston College.

At Bayport-Blue Point High School, she was a captain as a senior while also playing for the Long Island Yellow Jackets. Cassidy also won the under 15 national tournament. Her high school accolades are long including an All-American nod in 2018, and an All-American honorable mention in 2017. Weeks made All-County in 2016, 2017, and 2018, and was named high school Athlete of the Year as a senior.

When asked for a comment, her ex-coach Ryan Gick said, "Weeks was one of the most talented kids he's coached" but he really was most impressed with her "work ethic, drive, and tenacity. That is what separated her from the other kids."

Coach Grick continued, "In 8th grade she was moved up to play varsity. She fit right in and was able to compete with the top kids. Her and her sister were smaller and younger but they could hang with the older athletes right away. They are both great kids, from a great family and deserve everything they got."

All-State Standouts Get Honored

ByTomBarton

The South County Board of Education honored three athletes who earned All-State honors.

Varsity football players Trey'von Holland, Tatum Cipp, and Caleb White were each presented certificates for their athletic achievements. Holland, recently represented Long Island against New York City in the annual bowl game. In that game, Hollard earned defensive MVP honors. Tatum Cipp excelled at Bellport, playing multiple positions. He was a star at offensive tackle, offensive guard, and center and also played an excellent defensive tackle. Caleb

was an all-division

who was a preseason top 15 middle

The 6'1" 200

also played wide receiver and quarterback.

Ellie Masera

Photo Credit: @MP_PanthersAD | X

The Miller Place Softball Team Photo

Bellport High School’s boys varsity 4x400 team broke a 30year school record at the North Shore Invitational

Photo Credit: @BellportAthlet1 | X

Cassidy Weeks

Photo Credit: @CassidyWeeksss| X

White

standout

linebacker.

pounder

The six-time Long Island and 12time Suffolk County Champions will look to improve on their 4-4 division record when it begins play this fall.

Photo Credit: Jessica Novins Trey'von Holland, Tatum Cipp, and Caleb White Honored

PANTHERS CLAW

Photo

Photo

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