There are two “golden rules” when it comes to politicians stepping up and speaking out on issues, and other times when they should shut their traps.
Kamala Harris chose incorrectly not once, but twice when given the opportunity to speak or stay quiet as the campaign for Commander in Chief winds down.
President Joe Biden mastered the mantra of “you’re never hurt by anything you do not say” by employing a basement, bunker strategy when running for President in 2020. No media interviews. Stay hunkered down. Don’t say a word.
Unfortunately for America, it worked. Who knows how bad President Biden’s mental incapacities would have destroyed his 2020 campaign for President
As we edge closer to November, the presidential race feels more chaotic than ever. From billionaires flexing their financial muscles on both sides to Vice President Kamala Harris making unexpected moves— like her recent sit-down with Fox News—this election cycle has thrown us a curveball. Add to that President Trump's latest rally, this time in New York's Madison Square Garden, and it feels like nothing is off the table. Politics as we know it seems suspended, with a no-holdsbarred approach to winning.
Living in New York, a solidly blue state, I can count myself lucky for being somewhat shielded from the nonstop barrage of political ads. But spending time in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state, has shown me the other side. The constant stream of campaign ads—on TV, phones, YouTube, everywhere—has to be exhausting. It's enough to make you feel sorry for the folks living in
had he spoken regularly to the media. This silent strategy hurt the electoral process of giving voters a clear and concise assessment of whether or not President Biden was mentally fit to be President.
That noble endeavor was in direct contradiction to his campaign strategy: win. He hid; Hardly ever spoke publicly. It worked. He won. Our country lost.
Other times the proverb “silence is golden, other times it’s just plain yellow” fits when a candidate should walk up to a microphone and fire away.
When former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie faced intense media pressure because of the famous “Bridgegate Scandal” he held a press conference where he apologized, owned up to mistakes,
these battleground states who deal with this flood every four years.
Now, what’s going to happen in November? I see two possible futures, and I’d like you to consider both with me.
Scenario One: Trump Returns to Power
If President Trump wins a second term, he’ll join the exclusive club of presidents who’ve served two nonconsecutive terms. This version of Trump will be more seasoned, having learned from the defeat in 2020. I believe we’d see major reforms, perhaps the biggest in our lifetimes, as Trump looks to trim down what many see as an overreaching federal government. Americans could feel freer, more in control of their destinies, and less weighed down by bureaucratic red tape.
Think about what a second Trump term could mean: a reset.
Kamala Clown Show Continues
and answered every single question for approximately one hour, 48 minutes, and four seconds.
That January 9th, 2014, press
conference was a good example of when leaders have to face the music and face a tough crowd. It builds trust. Besides, if the person
running for President is afraid of a microphone and speaking before a challenging audience, how do we expect them to fiercely defend America against enemies like Putin and Xi?
Which brings us to Kamala Harris saying “yes” to a sit-down interview with Bret Baier and saying “no” to the Al Smith Dinner in the Big Apple, where every presidential candidate has appeared for the past 40 years. This isn’t just a tuxedo-clad, formal dinner featuring Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, and a “who’s who” of politicians.
It’s a charity event where no punches are pulled, where political opponents pull no punches roasting one another. It’s both brutal and hilarious.
The Election Showdown—A Turning Point
The focus would likely shift to American priorities, boosting innovation, and maybe even a return to the moon. Trump has built alliances with figures like Elon Musk, RFK Jr. and Vivek Ramaswamy—people who stand for American ideals over globalist ones. This administration would likely distance itself from international entanglements and focus squarely on domestic growth and national security. For some, this is the ideal outcome.
Scenario Two: Harris Becomes the First Female President
Now, let’s consider the alternative: Vice President Harris becoming *Madam* President Harris. If that happens, she would break the highest glass ceiling in America, becoming the first woman to hold the office. It would be a moment of historic significance, especially for those who fought for women’s rights. But let’s not kid ourselves— this isn’t just about making history.
I’m concerned that a Harris administration could lead to a weaponized Department of Justice, potentially targeting political opponents. Take the whispers about Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro encouraging the DOJ to investigate Musk’s political activities. If true, that’s a red flag for anyone who values free speech and political independence. It signals a shift toward prosecuting those who stand in opposition.
Credit: Craiyon
Credit: Meta AI
Caricature of VP Kamala Harris
The GOP and Democrats Battle for the White House and Congress in 2024
Easy Path for Non-Citizens to Vote in New York STATE
ByRobertChartuk
If you want to vote in the upcoming election and can’t prove you’re a U.S. citizen, no worries: they’ll take your word for it.
Illegal immigrants voting has become a big topic in 2024 as the Biden-Harris administration let an estimated 20 million undocumented aliens into the country. Critics charge that the border was thrown open to flood the zone with foreigners who, dependent on government services, will vote for those who provide them. In this case, it’s presidential candidate Kamala Harris and the Democrats who run the nation’s major cities.
Those looking to register online in New York are steered toward the state Board of Elections, where they can wend their way through a few screens to get enrolled. While warnings come up that you must be a U.S. citizen to vote, no proof of residency is required. You can use an electronic signature to verify your information and you don’t have to give an address. You can get through the process without a driver’s license or Social Security number, but you’re cautioned that you may have to provide them when you show up to vote.
Anyone in New York can also register via a paper form; all they need to do is sign in the box to “swear or affirm” they are a citizen and have lived in the county, city or village for at least 30 days before the election. Those fibbing are warned that they can be convicted and fined up to $5,000 and/or jailed for up to four years.
The same rules apply for absentee voting, a scenario that has good government groups worried that a flood of ballots, mailed out in huge numbers, could provide the opportunity for election fraud. Those looking to cheat need only to access a voter list cross-checked
with questionable addresses and locations listing unrelated voters and turn in ballots under those names. The election boards in the Democrat-controlled cities probably won’t be checking the provenance of these ballots. Voting integrity initiatives such as those by MyPillow® magnate Mike Lindell urge citizens to report voter fraud if they find that someone cast a ballot for them.
“One of our most sacred rights as American citizens is the right to vote,” stated Nancie Orticelli with the Constitutional Coalition of New York. “There are men and women in Arlington Cemetery who gave the ultimate sacrifice
to enshrine that right, and that’s something we shouldn’t take lightly. If illegal immigrants are allowed to vote, that is a slap in the face to all those people who died to protect our rights,” she said.
“I don't care if you're a Democrat or a Republican, a Libertarian or an Independent, if you don't recognize the absolute wildly disgusting premise of allowing non-citizens to vote, then I don't even know why you live in the United States,” Orticelli added.
New York encourages people to register—it’s the first thing that pops up when you sign in at NY.gov, the go-to site that connects you to any number of state services. Those
getting a driver’s license are steered toward registering, as you will be at a plethora of other agencies—proof of citizenship not required. The push for voter registration at all levels of government is called for by the state’s “Agency-Based Voter Registration Program,” which is mandated under the “National Voter Registration Act.”
If you are seeking assistance from the state at any of the following offices, you will be asked to register to vote:
• Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
• City Universities of New York (CUNY)
Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
• Department of Health - WIC Program
• Department of Labor
• Department of Social Services
• Department of State
• Division of Veterans’ Services
• Military Recruiting Offices
• Office for the Aging
• Office of Mental Health
• Office For People With Developmental Disabilities
• State Universities of New York (SUNY)
• Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR)
• Workers’ Compensation Board
The nexus between economic migrants and the need for government support is not lost on the politicians. Gov. Kathy Hochul budgeted $2 billion this year for immigration services provided through the state. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams said the funds doled out to illegal aliens over the next few years will balloon to $12 billion, huge incentives for the recipients to toe the party line. The
Santos Tells Kamala: No More Interviews
ByStefanMychajliw
Former Congressman George Santos had blunt advice for Vice President Kamala Harris on whether or not she should conduct any more sit-down media interviews between now and Election Day.
Don’t.
Santos sure did in this edition of the South Shore Press newscast. His conversation is here with South Shore Press News Director Stefan Mychajliw:
South Shore Press: “Right off the bat, let’s get your reaction in totality of the entire interview with Kamala Harris.”
George Santos: “Now the American people understand why all of her interviews have been prerehearsed with agreements to edit answers post interview. Nothing has been done live. Every time she does these interviews, she bombs.
I'm a Trump supporter.
It could have been a lot worse from the pool of interviewers at Fox, had she sat in front of Shannon Bream and Martha MacCallum or even Sean Hannity or Lauren Ingram, she would have been decimated. She bombed. She bombed Bret-Baier, who is probably one of the most even-keeled people on Fox News. She just couldn't do it.
SSP: “But why did she even do it in the first place? If I'm consulting the Harris campaign, I would have said, ‘Don't do it. You're never hurt by anything you do not say.’ And the risk far outweighed the reward.”
GS: “You hit a point when you're tanking and you're underwater, you just throw anything to see what sticks. Kamala Harris is underwater. Her internals show it. National polls show it. Trump's momentum is just growing bigger and bigger. And that honeymoon period is over.
The sugar high is now crashing. It's like getting an ADHD child who is naturally hyper and high and giving him loads of candy on Halloween night.
There was that massive sugar high when the Democrat Party essentially threw away the electorate of Joe Biden without
mayor and his Democrat colleagues are not shy about the scheme: they’re pushing to make it legal for non-citizens to vote.
The other side is fighting back. The group Look Ahead America is running ads in Spanish-language media warning that it's illegal for non-citizens to vote. “If you are not a U.S. citizen, you are not allowed to vote in the federal election, and voting in the election can result in your arrest, loss of a chance at citizenship, and deportation,” the ads warn.
“If you are not a citizen of our country, you cannot vote. You should obey the law,” said George Pritchard of the group, 7-11 Patriots Corner. “The citizens pay taxes, they have the right to vote. People who broke the law to come here, they do not.” He added: “Everyone has the opportunity to succeed in America, but they have to obey the law.”
Changing the nation’s demographics in their favor is an admitted strategy of the Democrats, who are strategically placing immigrants in Republican areas in order to dilute the vote. The GOPleaning community of Springfield, OH, for example, has seen its population double from thousands of Haitians delivered by the BidenHarris administration. In a scenario played out across the country, including in Charleroi, PA, where former President Donald Trump said illegal immigrants increased the population by 2,000%, the new arrivals are straining services and making life more difficult for the citizens. Soon, if the Democrats have their way, they’ll be able to outvote them.
Since Trump lost his reelection bid in 2020 by about 40,000 votes across only a few swing states, tipping the electoral scales by introducing new voters could keep the Democrats in power for years to come.
putting anyone through the process of an election and just crowned and anointed Kamala Harris.
She's underwater, so she's just throwing anything. It's like that old saying, throw the pasta to the wall. If it sticks, it's ready. She's just throwing raw pasta at the wall at this point and praying it sticks.”
SSP: “It's bouncing right back. You faced a ton of microphones over your career, whether it was softball questions, tough questions, you name it, you've seen the gauntlet. So moving forward, then, if Kamala Harris says, Hey, George, should I do another interview ever again? What would you say to her?”
GS: “Absolutely not. Go and hide and just stay away from the cameras. Every time you go in the cameras, you lose half a percent point. But you know what? I want her to lose. I'll tell her ‘do what you're doing.’ Keep on keeping on. You're doing great’.
Kamala Harris has had only softballs thrown at her. She should stay away from interviews. Now I understand why her and Governor Walz have absolutely avoided press and live interviews, it's because they just can't do them. They're incapable of doing them."
STATE
ByRobertChartuk
Prop 1 Opposition Growing
Momentum is growing against a seemingly innocuous proposition on the November ballot that promises to give equal rights to all but, upon further review, will allow for a host of consequences many find undesirable.
Crafted by the Progressive Democrats who control the state legislature, Proposition 1 would amend the state constitution to give men the right to play in women’s sports, allow boys to use girls' bathrooms, give illegal aliens the same rights as citizens, and permit abortions right up to the moment of birth.
One political figure who thinks this is abhorrent is former Congressman Lee Zeldin, the Republican-Conservative who came with a few points of knocking off Gov. Kathy Hochul in the 2022 election. “There has never been a greater attack on girls sports and women's rights in New York than the push by Kathy Hochul and Albany Democrats to amend the state constitution through Proposal 1 on this year's ballot,” Zeldin posted. “Vote NO on Prop 1!” He’s among the many
opponents who are lighting up the internet urging the defeat of what’s been billed as a reproductive rights initiative designed by the Democrats to help drive women to the polls to defeat Donald Trump and his GOP ticket. In 2022, the Liberal Left capitalized on the leaking of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade and give the individual states the power to regulate abortion. Proposition 1 notwithstanding, New York has among the most liberal abortion laws in the country.
Gov. Hochul doubled down on her support of the measure, committing $1 million to push for its passage. “New Yorkers deserve the freedom to control their own lives and health care decisions, including the right to abortion regardless of who’s in office, and this important investment will get that message out across the state,” the governor said.
“In short, Prop 1 and its added suspect classes threaten to throw New York civil rights law into chaos,” concluded the Empire Center, a non-partisan think tank based in Albany. “If everyone is in a suspect class, then everyone has a right to
have laws that discriminate against them drawn in the least restrictive, narrowly tailored way to serve a compelling government purpose.”
State Senator Mario Mattera called the proposition a “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” noting that it would restrict the rights of parents in making decisions for their children. “It would be a disaster for the state,” he said.
In a joint statement, Republicans in the state Assembly noted that the change in the Constitution would give illegal aliens the right to vote and allow them to free-access the government services provided to citizens. “Prop 1 is designed to appear progressive and helpful. But at its core, the measure is just a list of hot-button topics already covered under the law, masking a thinly veiled attempt to undermine families, parents, and communities. It has no place in New York,” they said.
Another measure on the back of this year’s ballot is Proposition 2, a measure allowing Suffolk County to increase its sales tax by a cent to fund sewers and private sanitary systems. Seen as a critical effort to protect Long Island’s water resources, the
proposal will allow the county to merge all of its sewer districts together and charge users a uniform fee regardless of what area they’re
ByRobertChartuk
Upgrade for Volunteer Firefighters Museum
Volunteer firefighters have been serving Long Island for decades and have a museum dedicated to them in Ridge, a facility that was recently upgraded thanks to state and town grants.
“The museum traces back the vital role volunteer firemen and women have played in our communities over the years,” noted Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who secured $50,000 to upgrade the siding on the museum’s administration building. Another $50,000 was provided by Brookhaven.
The museum is a collection of artifacts and equipment used in fire services over the years, including vintage trucks,
pumps, and a horse-drawn hose cart. There’s also a racer used in motorized competitions, uniforms, and plenty of photos and plaques showing the rich history of the fire service.
“When Assemblyman DeStefano approached me about the grant, immediately the both of us knew that using it for the Fireman’s Museum was absolutely the best use of this money,” said Town Councilman Mike Loguercio. “Since both he and I are actively involved in fire service, we understand the need to maintain this museum so that all generations of firefighters and community members can enjoy it for years to come.”
The administration building
was named for former Brookhaven Supervisor Henrietta Acampora, an early advocate of the museum at Fireman’s Memorial Park just off Route 25. On a recent Saturday, a dozen helpers, all volunteer firefighters from local departments, were making way for a new building to expand the museum’s holdings.
“The museum is a team effort with many people chipping in from departments across Long Island,” said Patrick Perry, museum president. “We have many items on display that were donated by the various departments.” Perry is working to restore a 1930 fire truck he obtained from a collector in Greenport.
Also located on the grounds is the Gene Gerrard Truck Building, named for the former town councilman, which houses a 1952 GMC brush truck, a 1951 Jeep beach rig, and a 1965 Maxim pumper. There’s also a firematic research library and a truck house in honor of Ridge fireman Jack Austin, who led the original creators of the museum. Another building is an 1889 firehouse donated by the Center Moriches Fire Department.
The museum is currently open via appointment by calling 631-924-8114. It will have regular hours in the spring, Perry said. Admission is free. Visit them online at www. brookhavenfiremuseum.org.
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Robert Chartuk, Deborah Williams, Howard Roark, Barbara LaMonica, Stefan Mychajliw, Tom Barton, Nancy Burner, Fredrick Miller, Rich Acritelli, Chase Millwater, Donna Ronaldo, Beth Squire, Angelina Livigni, Michael J. Reistetter
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Credit: Robert Chartuk
Celebrating the completion of an upgrade to a building at the Firefighter’s Museum are volunteers, from left, Pete DiPinto, Dan Brooks, Gene Perry, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, Paul Callegari, and Museum President Patrick Perry. The Assemblyman secured a $50,000 state grant to replace the facility’s siding.
ByRobertChartuk
Suffolk is Trump Country Say 7-11 Patriots
Judging by the displays springing up along local highways and front yards, Suffolk is Trump Country. One such demonstration appears nearly every day on William Floyd Parkway, staged by a group going by the name of 7-11 Patriots Corner.
Run by George Pritchard of North Shirley, the pro-Trump display elicits plenty of supportive beeps from motorists heading through the busy MorichesMiddle Island Road intersection. A drive down any artery in the area shows nothing like it for the former president’s opponent, Kamala Harris, who’s been slipping
in the polls after a series of nonconvincing media appearances.
“The response has been remarkable,” Pritchard reports.
“People stop and join us; there’s always a crowd.” The electronics expert explained that he started the Patriots Corner after his gym was closed during COVID-19 and he started running for exercise. “I would carry a Trump flag, and the reaction was tremendous. I set up at the corner with more flags and signs about four years ago, and the movement has grown ever since.”
Supporting conservative candidates, the group had a big moment when former Rep. Lee Zeldin stopped by when he was
running for governor. “We had hundreds of people when Lee was here and still have a lot of momentum to get our message across.”
Pritchard said the 7-11 Patriots back Trump because he promises to close the border to illegal immigrants, end the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and beat back the inflation caused by the Biden-Harris economic policies, among other issues where they believe the current administration is failing. They’re expecting a big win for Trump on Long Island, needed to help carry other candidates, such as Congressman Nick LaLota, over the finish line.
Chronic Absenteesism Plagues Classrooms Across Suffolk County
ByDeborahWilliams
Common sense and education experts agree that the best place for the overwhelming majority of young people to learn is in the classroom. Yet, a rash of chronic absenteeism in schools in Suffolk County and across New York State is getting in the way.
New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli released a report addressing the post-COVID-19 surge in chronic absenteeism across the state. The report shows a troubling trend. During the 2022 to 2023 school year, about 33% of students missed at least 10% of school days.
DiNapoli said, “The classroom disruptions caused by the pandemic have had a lingering negative impact on New York’s students. As schools transitioned back to in-person instruction, chronic absenteeism rates increased sharply and have remained high, especially among vulnerable student populations and in the State’s highneeds schools.”
South Shore Press (SSP) examined the absentee numbers in some of the districts in our reading area. The numbers include very low and very high absentee numbers that are closely correlated with the socio-economic status of the children and families in the districts.
Chronic absentee rates (in percent) for high school and middle school are Wm. Floyd (66.1/36.3), Longwood (37.5/23.7), Smithtown (27.6/15.5), Patchogue-Medford (22.8/20.1), Sachem (22.8/21.2), Rocky Point (21/20.6), Mt. Sinai (18.7/15.3), Miller Place (14.1/14.1), Shoreham (11.7/10.2), and Three Village (5.9/8.8).
Bob Vecchio, Executive Director for the Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association weighed in on the issue saying, “You can track absenteeism data back to when students were in kindergarten and first and second grade. If there were high levels of absenteeism at those grade levels, it is usually a pretty good indicator that this is a student that is going to have issues
with school attendance throughout their career.”
When you have a student who is already in a chronic absenteeism situation and then you add in the additional stressors associated with pandemic and post-pandemic adjustments to different learning environments, many children simply don’t make the turn. Their issues escalate.
“What we have seen nationwide, and certainly in New York State and on Long Island, postCOVID is a huge increase in chronic absenteeism and student engagement. It is harder getting kids to attend schools regularly," says Vecchio.
“I believe a lot of the issues of students who are isolated for so long do have difficulties now being in large settings and large buildings and have additional impairment with social skills on top of what may have already been going on with that student, “Vecchio added.
Superintendent of PatchogueMedford Schools, Donna Jones, Ed.D., says our district has "a comprehensive approach to monitoring and developing intervention strategies for chronic absenteeism. After a student is identified, the critical factor in each situation is the engagement of the student and the family in the process. The student's building principal, the District’s attendance officer, a social worker, a school psychologist, and—at the secondary level—the student’s guidance counselor are all involved."
"Based on individual situations, there are frequent home visits to work with home and family factors. There are morning calls and frequent letters. We look at the inschool situation to assess whether there are changes that might be considered beneficial in reducing a particular student’s absenteeism," says Jones. "Over the past year, our efforts have shown results, as absenteeism is on a downward trend District-wide."
Schools on Long Island, like districts nationwide, have to put additional mental health supports in place. Schools are trying different strategies for student engagement or meeting students where they are through the use of technology with online services. These additional services are necessary, but they also
put a huge strain on school budgets.
Parent engagement is a huge part of reducing chronic absenteeism and for the success of students who come to school. Students start and end their day with their parents or guardians, and there is no getting around that family support plays a huge role in the successful learning of any student at any level.
Vecchio says Long Island schools are getting “very creative with parental engagement because it is a priority to impart to the parents the importance of having students in school. Online may be a fix in certain specific situations, but it's not the be-all and end-all.”
“We know students optimally learn at the highest levels when they're in person in the classroom. And then, of course, all the other benefits from the socialization skills of being in class with your peers and relationships with a teacher that you don't get online or by not being in school at all,” Vecchio added.
Vecchio also spoke about how "it is very difficult to compare one district to another, because you really have to look at the demographics of those communities, demographics of the districts."
Vecchio has a long personal
involvement with Wm. Floyd district and says, "William Floyd has so many more students, but there's so many more challenges beyond volume. When you have a school district that has anywhere between 300 to 400 students that are classified homeless, the absenteeism rate in unstable circumstances like that is going to be extraordinarily high."
Homelessness in students, and sometimes students are working to support their family, can't help but affect the students' readiness and presence in the classroom.
In severe cases, parents can and will be reported to Child Protective Services for educational neglect. It is an extreme step that schools don't want to take, but it is something that schools can and do in extreme circumstances. Ultimately, it is a parental responsibility to make sure that your child is getting to school and getting to school on time. Parents, grandparents, and the whole family must be involved in education to set the students up for success as they move out of school and into an independent life.
SSP reached out to districts multiple times for data on absenteeism and a comment on the results. Only Patchogue-Medford district responded.
SCPD Mourns Death of Beloved Inspector
ByStefanMychajliw
Hearts are heavy across the Suffolk County Police Department, as they mourn the loss of active Auxiliary Police
Deputy Inspector Israel Asturias who passed away on October 12th, 2024. He was 62 years old.
Deputy Inspector Asturias joined the Auxiliary Police Department in 2015 as an Auxiliary Police Officer and rose through the ranks to Deputy Inspector in 2020 serving in the Seventh Precinct for the past decade.
Deputy Inspector Asturias served as a Chaplain visiting inmates at Riker’s Island. He also volunteered in the Salvadorian Council and the Town of Brookhaven coordination groups. He was awarded the Department of Justice Certificate of Advocacy for his outstanding and meritorious service to the people of Suffolk County. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Belkys, and their seven children.
Credit: Robert Chartuk
George Pritchard of the 7-11 Patriots Corner.
Credit: SCPD
Auxiliary Police Deputy Inspector Israel Asturias
Credit: File Photo
Chronic absenteeism plagues classrooms.
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Suffolk County Comptroller
John Kennedy (R-Smithtown) announced the successful sale of $164,415,000 worth of Public Improvement Serial bonds—2024 Series A on Wednesday, October 6th.
As Kennedy outlines, proceeds from the bond sale will fund over 200 projects countywide. Yearslong profit commitments toward improving roads, sewers, parks, open space acquisition, and additional infrastructure are made possible when lucrative, “win/
Bond Sale Season: Suffolk Comptroller Announces Latest Success
win” deals such as this are struck.
The Comptroller cites “strong support” from investors; the winning bid—3.39 percent, from Jefferies, LLC—was even better than what was projected for an 18year bond issue, per Kennedy.
Sold at competitive sale, the bonds received bids totaling $1.973 billion from a dozen different banks and brokers. They are scheduled to be delivered to investors on Wednesday, October 30th.
Kennedy says credit rating upgrades, courtesy of Fitch
Ratings and S&P Global earlier this year, rewarded investors
with a renewal of confidence.
Market backing means impacted communities in waiting can be rest assured: promises made will soon become promises delivered.
“County Executive [Ed] Romaine has assured that capital projects will move at an ambitious pace,” Comptroller Kennedy told the South Shore Press.
“My office will monitor the management and disbursement of funds," he adds, "so that all projects are completed in a timely and efficient manner.”
A serial bond is a bond in which
principal repayment is made on its stated maturity date. Bonds of this sort can be structured with or without call provisions, according to Debtbook.com. Depending on what produces a price cheaper to the investor buying in, a serial bond is priced to either its stated maturity date or its call date.
Translated further: the selling of these bonds—per the efforts of those intimately involved at the Hauppauge-located headquarters—offers proofpositive evidence the county has come through the pandemic “stronger than ever.”
Crime Prevention Message from Assemblyman Joe DeStefano
ByAssemblymanJoseph DeStefano
National Crime Prevention Month represents an opportunity for individuals and organizations of every type to recommit to making our communities safer and to show our appreciation for the dedicated law enforcement agents who tirelessly work toward those goals every day. During October, government agencies, community groups, businesses, schools and more focus on ways to educate individuals about crime prevention and promote awareness about how crime impacts victims and damages our communities.
My colleagues and I in the Assembly take crime prevention very seriously. One of our key priorities each year is to promote legislation that protects residents and those who risk their well-being to keep us safe. Our commitment to crime victims and law enforcement is something I am extremely proud of; I have always believed the most important role of government is to keep those it represents safe.
Considering our substantial commitment to protecting the state, we have worked hard on programs and policies to that end. For example, our recently launched Task Force on Human Trafficking has already garnered considerable feedback in an area of growing concern in New York. With the insights we’ve gained during recent forums, we have been able to begin crafting legislation to
protect vulnerable individuals from the terrors of forced sex work and abuse.
We’ve also looked closely at fixing some of the chief issues driving crime in New York like the near elimination of bail, numerous antipolice reforms, a massive influx of migrants and misguided laws like “Raise the Age.” The way the state mitigates and prosecutes crime has drifted too far from the commonsense; accepted practices governing most of the country. Here, we treat criminals better than cops, and that has to stop.
In addition, we have also offered a number of ways to protect our law enforcement agents already fighting an uphill battle in New York. We have written legislation:
• Making life imprisonment without parole mandatory for defendants convicted of murder in the first or second degree if the victim is a police officer, specified peace officer, first responder or correctional officer.
• Designating offenses against law enforcement, emergency medical services personnel and/or firefighters as hate crimes, thereby increasing the penalty for the offense.
• Allowing judges to consider the safety of any person or the community when determining pretrial release for a criminal suspect.
• Reinstating the death penalty in New York state and making it an available sentence for those convicted of the intentional killing of police officers, specified peace officers and first responders, among others.
During October, consider ways you can better educate yourself about the impact crime has, especially on vulnerable individuals like children, the elderly and those in the disability community. Also, consider taking time to show appreciation for the individuals who keep us safe every day. Together, we can find ways to strengthen the fabric of our state and our nation through education, compassion and commitment to protecting one another. Thanks.
$8.2 Million Down the Drain in Suffolk Billing Bungle
ByRobertChartuk
Suffolk taxpayers are out $8.2 million from the county’s failure to bill for services provided at methadone and mental health clinics, according to a recent report by Comptroller John Kennedy.
He blamed the losses on the 2022 cyberattack, which paralyzed county operations for months. “We’re still cleaning up the mess from the attack,” said Kennedy, a frequent critic of former county Executive Steve Bellone, who shut down Suffolk’s computer network rather than succumb to ransom demands by the hackers.
The Department of Health’s Community Mental Hygiene Division served about 1,100 patients at four opioid treatment program clinics and 330 at two mental health clinics each month during the review period spanning the last year of the Bellone administration. The services, costing $11.6 million, are mostly reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid, and private providers. More than 117,000 visits were made to the clinics last year, mainly for methadone doses and counseling.
Kennedy urged Bellone’s successor, County Executive Ed Romaine, to negotiate with the reimbursing agencies to recover the lost funds, noting that the level of service and the costs have been consistent year over year. “They should recognize that we had an unusual occurrence with the cyberattack,” the comptroller said. “The services were rendered; we should be reimbursed.”
One health services professional contacted by the South Shore Press noted that though the county paid for the services, the loss of funds could
affect future programs.
The Department of Health has operated methadone clinics since the 1960s and 1970s. It’s discontinuing services at the Brentwood Mental Health Center due to the lack of sufficient psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, according to Kennedy.
The comptroller also noted that the number of vacant positions at the Department of Health Services steadily increased during the Bellone years from 181 in 2014 to 261 in 2023. “The 31% staffing shortage, as of September 2023, indicates that recruiting and retaining qualified personnel continues to be problematic for the Department,” the comptroller reported.
According to Kennedy, his office was locked out of the systems implemented by Bellone’s Department of Information Technology as it scrambled to recover after the attack. The agencies require billing to be done electronically, which he
was unable to do, a problem corrected under the Romaine administration. Still, the report says another $1 million in reimbursements that were outside of the review period could be lost.
A special committee of the Suffolk Legislature found that lax security and failure to upgrade to more modern data protection allowed the hackers to take over the county’s system. Bellone refused a $2.5 million ransom demand and shut down the network, severely limiting the operations of departments such as the comptroller’s office.
“There certainly was a lot of waste of taxpayer dollars,” Kennedy stated. He recommended that county officials contact elected representatives of the federal government to help secure the reimbursements. In addition, he suggested the transfer of staff within the health department to work on the billing backlog and give it the ability to hire entrylevel personnel outside of the written exam requirements of civil service.
Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy
Credit: Suffolk County
Credit:
Office of Assemblyman Joe DeStefano
Credit: Meta AI Suffolk taxpayers are out $8.2 million.
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Long Islanders Lovin' It: President Trump's McDonald's Drive-Thru Shift
Refuting Democratic candidate
Kamala Harris’ claims she worked for the largest fast food chain in the world as a college student some 40 years ago, former President Donald Trump super-sized his promise: to man a McDonald’s fry station for more than just a photo op.
In doing so, he hands-on cosigned the brand he has historically championed in an effort to re-endear himself to certain unconvinced sectors of small-town America; and, more specifically, while the time is nigh during the final stretch run, with November 5 just a couple weeks out, to smalltown American voters.
Even if Trump’s challenge of Harris’ past employment is futile, with large outlets confirming McDonald’s did not respond to their employment record inquiries, his visit still signifies the upper hand he holds over his opponent, according to his immovable backing.
“I'll vote for the man that actually served fries over the one that lies,” said Randy Bublitz, of St. James.
Amidst a busy itinerary, Trump may not have had the time to cook up some of his famous go-to’s like the Big Mac or the Filet-o-Fish sandwich. However, in assisting the Feasterville-Trevose, Pennsylvania franchise’s kitchen line on Sunday, October 20, a visit which perhaps was not-so-coincidentally calculated to fall upon Vice President Harris’ 60th birthday, Trump shadowed an employee who taught The Donald exactly how their fries become McDonald-certified.
Adorned with an apron worn
over his typical suit-and-tied get-up along the campaign trail, he dunked baskets of these delicious staples in oil and subsequently salted them to precision before putting them into boxes using a scoop.
“It requires great expertise, actually, to do it right and to do it fast,” Trump said, reflecting afterward, “I just saw something… a process that is beautiful.”
Though the in-house staff behaved more than courteously, some affiliated with the corporation have weighed in to rule Trump’s “quickie” as nothing but textbook eyewash: “Being a McDonald’s employee is more difficult than a lot of people imagine,” Mike Haracz, an ex-executive chef for the restaurant chain, told The New York Post ahead of Trump’s shift.
Following the conclusion of a mission completed as drawn up, Trump conducted a press conference from the drive-in, and noted this oddity later on; throughout the occasion, police cautioned off the streets, where crowds ranging from a couple of blocks to 10-15 gathered. Supporters surrounded the premises, and rode on by to honk their horns, blare music and wave flags in solidarity with their presidential guest.
This quelled the initial nervousness of the location’s manager, Derek Giacomantonio, a Trump supporter but logical business owner recognizant of the pitfalls that aligning with the “MAGA” sensibilities can bring.
“It is a fundamental value of my organization that we proudly open our doors to everyone who visits the Feasterville community,”
Credit: X
Giacomantonio said in a statement.
“That’s why I accepted former President Trump’s request to observe the transformative working experience that 1 in 8 Americans have had: a job at McDonald’s.”
When asked if he would support increased minimum wages after standing beside McDonald’s employees in action, Trump simply offered: “These people work hard. They’re great.”
“As a Donald Trump fan and a supporter of pretty much all of his policies, I truly believe he tries to put himself in the regular everyday American’s shoes,” said Brian Firman, of Coram. “Serving french fries at McDonald’s, what that means to me as a Trump supporter is that he also tries to see America through the average American’s eyes.”
In this case, he didn’t just try. He actually did.
Cash Aplenty in Congressional Races
ByRobertChartuk
Running for Congress gets more expensive with every campaign, and local candidates have been raking in the cash to compete. The Federal Election Commission requires detailed reports of money coming in and going out and posts them for all to see at FEC.gov.
The Big Kahuna for cash flow is Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who’s raised $9.1 million since last year to hold onto her seat. Including other monies spent on her behalf, she’s gone through $12.7 million so far and is sitting on another $1.5 million.
Her opponent, former New York City cop and security firm owner Mike Sapraicone, has
raised $1.1 million in his bid to knock out the 15-year incumbent. His campaign has spent $771,000 and he’s got $338,000 banked. The rivals are expected to raise and spend thousands more as they hurtle toward Election Day.
In Suffolk’s 1st Congressional District, incumbent Nick LaLota has taken in $3.8 million and has dispersed $2.3 million in his first reelection bid. His opponent, former CNN commentator John Avlon, has outpaced him with an inflow of 4.3 million. He’s had $2.6 million spent on his behalf and is sitting on $1.7 million as opposed to LaLota’s $1.5 million nest egg.
Congressional District 2 is currently represented by
Andrew Garbarino, a two-term incumbent who’s nursing a comfortable money lead over his opponent, Rob Lubin, a business entrepreneur. The congressman raised $3.5 million and has sunk $1.4 into his reelection so far. He’s got $2.3 million left in the tank. Lubin’s brought in $1 million and has spent $756,000, with $245,000 more to go.
The Federal Election Commission data gets pretty detailed, with money moving around from various Political Action Committees and transfers from the accounts of other elected officials. Voters can see where the money is coming from to find these humongous campaigns for the right to represent the residents.
Running on Plenty: USMC Vet Legislator Completes Suffolk Marathon 10K in 22-Pound Vest for Military Suicide Awareness
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
First launched in 2015, the Suffolk County Marathon has raised over $1 million for non-profit Veteran organizations, according to county officials.
"Our flag flies because Veterans have stepped forward to defend our country and to serve our country. So it's our way of saying thank you," Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said ahead of Sunday’s event.
Proceeds from this weekend's two-day event have yet to be reported. They will be distributed through an application process overseen by the Suffolk County Marathon Grant Committee. The money raised will be dispersed through the “I Run this Island Foundation.”
Sixth District Legislator Chad Lennon (Rocky Point) is a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps for 16 years, and Purple Heart recipient. Carrying a gigantic American flag
each step of the way, Lennon ran in the 10k leg of Sunday’s “marathon, half-marathon, 10k”-segmented festivities.
He did so while adorned in “boots and utes"—that is, military-issued footwear and trousers, a green T-shirt active servicemen wear under their camouflage uniform, and a 22-lb. vest in honor of the 22 Veterans per day that take their own life.
The legislator felt this tribute most appropriate, given the beneficiary of the event’s revenue.
“The CDC states that for every completed suicide, there are 25 attempts. So, on top of the 22 Veterans a day that are taking their own life, there are 550 that are attempting it,” Lennon told The South Shore Press. “Unless you are in the Veteran or military community, you really have no idea about this number.”
In the main event, Jonathan Schloth, a third-year law student,
Credit: Chad Lennon
2024 Suffolk County Marathon
and Cristin Delaney-Guille, 43, proved victorious in the men’s and women’s divisions.
Schloth, of Lynbrook, triumphed with a final time of 2 hours, 36 minutes and 30 seconds. Long Beach native Delaney-Guille finished the race in just under 3 hours at 2 hours, 59 minutes and 48 seconds.
To put this impressive feat into context: Schloth paced a 5-minute mile for the entire 26.2-mile duration, while Delaney-Guille paced a 6-minute mile.
Danny Kovler, of Farmingdale, and Maria Mahoney, of New Jersey, won the men's and women's half marathon; Caleb Fiedtkou
and Megan Eiseman won the 10k divisions.
“The experience was incredible. It was my first time running a half marathon, and although it was a tough run, personally I would do it again,” said Maria Lazcano, 27, of Selden.
Describing the route as mostly flat with picturesque views and a breeze lent from the bridge, Lazcano nevertheless considers it “..neverending.”
For those in training, she recommends constantly running and increasing your mileage each week. “Rest, hydrate, diet and stretch,” Lazcano says. Pick a good playlist, stay focused, have fun and remember: crossing the finishing line is an incredible victory!”
The winning route not just for first-place finishers, but for all who signed up cast its starting point in Babylon Village before crossing the Robert Moses Causeway to end at Bay Shore’s Gardiner County Park.
President Trump at McDonald's
ByRobertChartuk
Park Fee Fiasco at Smith Point
The handling of the fees people pay at Smith Point Park in Shirley has been lax, according to the county comptroller, who singled out cash drawers that consistently had discrepancies.
“Cash is not adequately safeguarded at the park,” said Comptroller John Kennedy in a performance audit of the Parks Department. “Inadequate safeguarding of assets increases the risk of undetected theft.”
In a letter outlining his findings to Parks Commissioner John Giannott, the comptroller stated that the department failed to comply with standard operating procedures with regard to depositing cash receipts within the required time frame. “The procedures implemented to ensure the safeguarding of assets are inadequate, and there is inadequate oversight over the cash handling process of revenues,” the audit noted.
Kennedy recommended that the department have at least one employee always available to make daily safe deposits and implement procedures requiring
park supervisors to regularly perform random observations and independent cash counts. “Failure to deposit funds within 24 hours increases the risk of theft and/or misappropriation of cash,” the audit stated.
Additionally, the combinations of the safes that contain the cash collected at the park were not changed regularly. “Inadequate safeguarding of assets increases the risk of undetected theft,” the report stressed.
The audit analysis revealed that there were 20 users with cash register variances and 14 users with bank deposit discrepancies during the audit period. “Furthermore, we noted the same three cashiers were responsible for the largest amount of both cash register variances (82 out of 197, or 42%) and deposit discrepancies (38 out of 60, or 63%).”
The audit went on: “Due to the continued occurrences of cash register variances and bank deposit discrepancies by the same cashiers throughout the audit period, it appears that corrective action was not taken by parks supervisors in a timely manner.
Failure to take timely corrective action of discrepancies noted can potentially lead to an increase in the misappropriation of funds.”
Responding to the audit, Commissioner Giannott said the department will conform to the operating procedures outlined by the comptroller. “Internal control over cash at the parks is important to us. We do have procedures in place to safeguard cash, and the park supervisors are trained in cash handling procedures,” Giannott said.
He confirmed that the department will “conduct an independent review of cashiers to identify which individuals have recurring errors and corrective action will be taken.” Reviews will occur on a continuous basis throughout the year, the commissioner noted.
He went on to say, “We agree that cash drops should be made mid-shift, especially during peak times during the summer months, and have already implemented a procedure for this. We also agree that changes in full-time staff warrant a change in safe combinations and have already
implemented this procedure. We will work with park supervisors to continue to ensure these practices are adhered to.”
In addition, the commissioner said he will work to put procedures in place that will see the park supervisors performing random observations of toll booth attendants, an activity that will prove to be challenging due to limited staff, he noted. Giannott also reported that the department recently hired an auditor to perform independent cash counts at revenuegenerating facilities.
According to the Commissioner, the department has also implemented a “Train the Trainer” model, where Park supervisors receive training in the first quarter of the year and then train the employees, including seasonal employees, at their locations.
An oceanfront park, Smith Point is one of the county’s most popular facilities. Parking costs $9 for residents and $18 for non-residents. It is one of eight county beaches and features a boardwalk, playgrounds, camping areas, and 4-wheel drive access to the outer beach.
Hauppauge Firefighter Receives Hispanic Heritage Month First Responder Award
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Yesenia “Jessie” Torres of the Hauppauge Fire Department’s Engine Company 1 was awarded the First Responder Award on Friday, October 11, in conjunction with the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Torres, 45, a Smithtown resident, and nine others were presented their awards by New York State Senator Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood).
Currently employed in the medical field when not unpaidassisting out of the Hauppauge firehouse, Torres is an aspiring fire marshall who is already well on her way—if the field experience she is collecting with ease is any indication.
“Jessie has been serving as a volunteer firefighter since 2020,” her department shared in a statement through their media spokesperson.
“Jessie is involved in all aspects at the firehouse and always steps up
when needed… the Hauppauge Fire Department congratulates Jesse as well as all of the other recipients.”
In conversation with The South Shore Press, Torres—who started the fire academy in January 2021, and passed all her exams by that same May—shared that, being born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico and raised in the Bronx, she never thought she would be a firefighter, until she moved to Long Island and discovered her calling.
“I am very proud to be a part of this community and very lucky to have amazing friends that are like brothers to me,” she said.
A cancer survivor, Torres divulged over an interview that she was diagnosed with Stage Two Breast Cancer in August 2022. As a result, she had to take a medical leave of absence.
Upon going into remission some months later, the department recalls Torres instantly returning to
action the second she was medically cleared by doctors.
“I missed it so much, and couldn’t wait to get back on the truck and continue to serve the community,” Torres recalled. I’m happy to be cancer-free and back on my feet.”
Still feeling the love a week after humbly receiving the hardware, attention and praise that no first responder demands, but deserves all the same, Torres continues to
put the ball back in her support system’s court for making her recent accomplishment possible in the first place.
“I want to thank my family for supporting me through it all, and understanding when I get home later than expected or have to cancel my plans at the last minute.”
Torres also commends her “brothers from Engine Company 1” who have always been there for
her “since Day 1.” She singles out Chief Crean for the nomination, Chief Mendola, the rest of the local firefighting community, like those from Hauppauge who attended her ceremony last week, and Senator Martinez for the selection.
“I have learned so much from each and every one of them,” Torres spoke of the Hauppauge Fire Department, “they are the true meaning of brotherhood.”
Big Paving Project Wraps Up In Brookhaven
ByStefanMychajliw
Brookhaven Town Highway
Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro and Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig have announced the completion of a 21-road paving project in Shirley.
Before paving, crews completed drainage maintenance and replaced damaged concrete aprons and curbing before resurfacing the following roadways: Cumberland Street, Essex Circle, Floyd Road, Floyd Road North, Fulton Place, Hampton Avenue, Hawthorne Street, Jefferson Place, Lexington Road North, Madison Street, Main Avenue, Monroe Street, Moriches Avenue, Ormond Place, Ostend Circle, Patchogue Avenue/Northern Boulevard, Reeves Place, Shinnecock Avenue, Somerset Avenue, Southaven Avenue and Van Buren Street.
The total cost for this paving project was approximately $1.5 million.
“This paving project involved a great deal of drainage upgrades before the resurfacing of the roadways could commence,” said Losquadro. “I am grateful that we were able to include the paving of this neighborhood in our 2024 paving season.”
Councilwoman Dunne Kesnig said, “We are committed to improving our roadways and will continue to work with our Highway Department and Superintendent Losquadro to identify the areas of greatest need. While ideally, we would love to pave every road more frequently, we strive to get as much done with the resources we have.”
Credit: Staff Image
Audit reveals discrepancies in cash drawers at Smith Point Park.
Credit: Hauppauge Fire Department
Hauppauge Fire Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month.
Credit: Town of Brookhaven Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro and Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig
ByRobertChartuk
An impressive group of Suffolk residents were recognized as Women of Distinction at a recent ceremony in Medford. Organized by state Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, the event included Congressman Andrew Garbarino, Senator Dean Murray, Legislators Dominick Thorne, Nick Caracappa, and Chad Lennon, Brookhaven Town Council Members Mike Loguercio and Karen Dunne Kesnig, and Suffolk Deputy Police Commissioner Belinda Alverez-Groneman. The annual ceremony the dedication and commitment of the women who go above and beyond in service to their communities.
Denise J. Nostrom has made an indelible mark on the financial services industry since entering the field in 1990. After beginning her career at Smith Barney as a portfolio assistant, Denise realized her passion for personalized financial advising. The lifelong Long Island resident founded her firm, Diversified Financial Solutions, in 1996, thriving for over 27 years by helping countless clients achieve their financial dreams. Denise is a committed professional, holding Series 7, 24, 51, 53, and 63 licenses, and is licensed in 15 states. She maintains and exceeds the continuing education standards required for her ChFC and CLU designations, as well as her life, health, and annuity licenses and securities registrations. Her expertise has been recognized by prestigious publications such as Long Island Business News, Newsday, Forbes, CNBC, and U.S. News and World Report.
Denise is the founder and president of POWER (Power of Women Exchanging Resources Inc.,) a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women in business and leadership by providing a solid foundation of support, education, and networking opportunities. Through POWER, Denise has inspired countless women to achieve tremendous personal and professional success.
This financial expert’s leadership extends beyond her professional career into her community, where she is actively involved with the Patchogue-Medford School District. She awards college scholarships, mentors students in the Career Raiders Internship program, and serves as a volunteer cheerleading
Meet the Women of Distinction
coach. Her dedication to education and community service earned her induction into the PatchogueMedford High School Hall of Fame in 2019 and the National Business Honor Society in 2024.
Her achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Peak Brokerage Services Integrity Award in 2021 for her outstanding work in empowering clients and the National Association of Professional Women’s Woman of the Year award for her excellence and dedication to her profession.
Jodi Moran is a lifelong resident of Medford who has consistently demonstrated a firm commitment to serving others. A 1995 graduate of Patchogue-Medford High School, Jodi is married to Terrence Moran. Together, they are raising their twin sons, Logan and Aidan, who attend Patchogue-Medford High School and share their mother’s passion for community involvement.
Jodi has dedicated her career to Suffolk County Community College’s Center for Social Justice and Human Understanding, where she serves as principal office assistant. She utilizes her skills to support the Center’s mission and advance understanding of social justice issues, including the preservation of the Holocaust Collection.
Jodi’s extensive and varied volunteerism reflects her deep commitment to her community. She has served as a parent representative on the Patchogue-Medford School District Safety Committee, is actively involved in the PTA, and currently serves as vice president of Friends of Art and Music Education (FAME), advocating for the arts in schools.
Her dedication extends to the welfare of animals, as she volunteers with Almost Home Animal Rescue, where she has become known for her expertise in caring for guinea pigs. Her sons also participate in this volunteer work, following the example she sets.
Jodi’s passion for history and respect for veterans has led her to engage in initiatives that support these causes. One such effort is her involvement with VFW Post 2937, where she instills in her sons the importance of honoring those who have served our country.
Jodi strongly believes in the
power of volunteerism and strives to instill these values in others. She consistently gives 110% to every cause she supports. Her dedication to being a good citizen, a loving wife and mother, and a pillar of her community is evident in all she does.
Sergeant Linda Piotrowski, a resident of Lake Grove for the past 11 years, has served her community with distinction since joining the Suffolk County Police Department in September 2005. She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to police service, beginning as a patrol officer in the 6th Precinct, where she protected the Centereach, Ronkonkoma, and Farmingville areas and later rising through the ranks to her current position as sergeant. As a patrol officer, Linda displayed a profound sense of duty, often running toward danger to assist those in need. Her commitment to making a positive impact on her community and protecting the vulnerable has been a hallmark of her career.
In 2021, Linda transitioned to the Community Oriented Policing Enforcement (COPE) unit, where she played a pivotal role in strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community, particularly in underserved areas.
Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in coordinating multiple community initiatives, including free women’s self-defense classes and educational support programs for women in recovery. Linda’s efforts have been recognized by her community, elected officials, and the police department. Her work has left a lasting impact on the lives of many.
In 2023, Linda assumed the role of sergeant in charge of the SCPD Youth Explorers Program, overseeing the supervision and training of young individuals aspiring to careers in law enforcement. Her dedication to mentoring the next generation of police officers is evident in her efforts to restructure and revitalize the program, ensuring it provides an exceptional experience for all participants.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Linda gives back a lot to her community, serving as a Peer Support Volunteer for the Suffolk County Police Department,
teaching free women’s selfdefense classes, and participating in several committees focused on domestic violence awareness, human trafficking prevention, and community safety.
Linda has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions, including Cop of the Month and departmental recognition and proclamations from various elected officials, all of which speak to her extraordinary contributions and tireless service to her community. Linda’s passion for service, education, and law enforcement is matched only by her dedication to her family—her husband, Lieutenant Matthew Piotrowski, and their son, Matthew Jr., who are her greatest sources of pride and motivation.
Nerina Sperl is a lifelong public servant and tireless advocate for the Medford community. She has distinguished herself through steadfast dedication to community service, fiscal responsibility, and the betterment of her neighborhood.
Nerina moved to Medford in 1987 with her husband—Ray, and their three children—Michael, Peter, and Jenna, quickly becoming active participants in the community through scouting, athletics, school, and civic activities.
Professionally, Nerina has served Suffolk County for 25 years as chief auditor in the comptroller’s office, where her work has led to the recovery of millions of dollars in misspent taxpayer funds. Her passion for responsible government spending was not limited to her professional life—Nerina was instrumental in forming the community watchdog group Concerned Taxpayers of PatchogueMedford (CTOP) in response to significant school tax increases in the early 1990s. Through her efforts, fiscally responsible individuals were elected to the school board, bringing much-needed accountability to the district’s financial management.
Nerina’s dedication to education and youth development is evident through her many years of service with the Patchogue-Medford School District PTA, where she served as treasurer and fundraiser, and her involvement in scouting as assistant cub master and Girl Scouts troop leader. She also served on the Patchogue-Medford School Board of Education’s Finance Committee, helping to steer the district through
challenging fiscal times. She is a longtime member and treasurer of the Medford Taxpayers and Civic Association and has spent more than 30 years working to enhance the quality of life in Medford by collaborating with all levels of government to ensure responsible land use, traffic mitigation, and environmental protection.
Narina’s leadership was crucial in the successful effort to prevent the establishment of a VLT “casino” in Medford, which would have violated town codes and state regulations. She’s also contributed to regional projects as an Affiliated Brookhaven Civic Organizations member. Through her work with the Medford Hamlet Foundation, which she co-founded in 2008, Nerina played an essential role in developing the Medford Branch of the Patchogue-Medford Library. This project took 15 years of perseverance and partnership. Her vision for the library was to create a community hub that would serve as a center for learning, connection, and pride for the residents of Medford.
Nerina’s commitment to her community extends to her involvement with St. Sylvester’s Church, where she served on the Adult Faith Formation ministry to help adults seeking sacraments. Nerina and her husband are the proud parents of three successful children and the delighted grandparents of four grandchildren—Cassandra, Gregory, Penelope, and Oliver— who benefit from the values of service and community that Nerina has instilled in her family.
Amy Thomas is a dedicated 26year volunteer with South Country Ambulance, having joined in 1998 when she was just 18. She has since proven to be a devoted volunteer who gives her time freely and works to constantly advance her EMS education and career while serving her community. Amy has been a New York State EMT-B for 21 years while climbing through the ranks to become the department’s chief of administration, a position she has held since 2010. This title makes her the third in command of the busiest EMS agency in the Town of Brookhaven and the seventh busiest EMS agency in Suffolk County.
This is no small responsibility as the South Country Ambulance District is 24 square miles with 18 miles of waterways. Within the command's boundaries are the Suffolk County police headquarters, county jail, county fire training grounds, Southaven County Park, a federal wildlife refuge, all South Country school district buildings, Brookhaven Memorial Hospital, large industrial sites, and more than 6,000 residential homes.
Over the years, Amy has taken a proactive response to community education by coordinating CPR and first-aid training for many groups and going into school districts to train children on bike safety and other child-specific topics.
Continued on page
Credit: Office of Assemblyman DeStefano
Credit: Office of Assemblyman DeStefano
Credit: Office of Assemblyman DeStefano
Credit: Office of Assemblyman DeStefano
Denise J. Nostrom
Jodi Moran
Sergeant Linda Piotrowski Nerina Sperl
BySouthShorePress
Suffolk County Police To Hold Property Auction
The Suffolk County Police Department will hold a property auction on Wednesday, October
23rd, 2024, at the Property Section, located at 30 Yaphank Avenue in Yaphank.
The auction will begin at 9 a.m. and will be held rain or
shine. There will be a preview of jewelry and select property on Tuesday, October 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Among the items being
Meet the Women of Distinction...
Continued from page 10
Over 3,000 children and 500 adults have been taught in the past few years. Amy has also continued her own EMS education. She has become certified or taken additional training in drowning emergencies, prehospital trauma life support, pediatric education, and advanced national incident management classes.
Amy oversees the department’s Continuing Medical Education program, which ensures that department EMTs and paramedics are credentialed by the State of New York. In addition to her EMS responsibilities, Amy is a volunteer coach with Bellport Soccer and serves on the board of directors for two local non-profits. During her tenure, Amy has given more than 20,000 volunteer hours to the community she grew up in and resides with her husband, Neil, and their three children—Hunter, Lochlyn, and Eastlyn.
April Coppola has lived in the William Floyd community since 1984 and graduated from its high school. She and her husband, Rob Fleischmann, reside in Shirley and have three children who graduated from William Floyd: Skylar Fleischmann, Isabella Coppola, and Thomas Coppola. April has served as a member of the William Floyd Board of Education since her election in 2016. Her fellow trustees
selected her as the board vice president in 2019 and subsequently chosen as board president in 2022.
As a member of the Board of Education, April has been a strong advocate for the district, helping ensure students have access to top music, arts, athletics, and technical education programs. Under her leadership, the district’s graduation rate has climbed to 90%, and the community’s tax levy has been reduced by more than $23 million over two years. The school’s bond rating has improved and has repeatedly earned the highest rating in the New York State Comptroller’s fiscal health report. April also supported the successful passage of a capital project referendum that has dramatically enhanced school facilities and community resources.
auctioned are jewelry, televisions, watches, power tools, electronics and bicycles.
Participants must be at least 18 years old to bid. All items are sold in “as in” condition and must be purchased with cash. For more information, visit SuffolkPD. org.
Bellport High School Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
BySouthShorePress
To mark Hispanic Heritage Month, Bellport High School’s Multicultural Student Association created a living library experience, “My Journey,” for their peers. As part of the event, ENL student alumni spoke with current students about their journey to the United States and their high school and current college experiences.
In addition to her service with the Board of Education, April is involved in many local organizations working to serve and improve the community, including the William Floyd Community Summit, where she serves as treasurer and chairperson of the Beautification Committee, the Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics and Shirley, where she’s served as a board member since 2014, as well as volunteering her time as a member of the Pattersquash Creek Civic Association, where she serves on the board of directors.
April also organizes and participates in various events, including working to beautify the area through flower planting projects, spring and fall community clean-ups, and a partnership with Boy Scout Troop 138 of Mastic Beach to maintain Osprey Park. She also maintains the corner of William Floyd Parkway and Montauk Highway, the gateway to her community, where the statue of William Floyd is located. She can often be seen with her husband planting flowers and pulling weeds to ensure the location continues to look great.
Danielle Paisley has devoted her life to serving the public and championing community engagement. A resident of Babylon for 17 years, she is a distinguished alumna of St.
Anthony’s High School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Education from Providence College, a Master’s Degree in Library Science with a concentration in Public Librarianship for Children from Queens College, and an Advanced Certificate in Public Library Administration.
Danielle has been a cornerstone of the Patchogue-Medford Library for 27 years. She began her career as a children’s librarian in 1997, advancing to the head of young adult/audiovisual services and assistant director, ultimately becoming the director in 2017. Under Danielle’s directorship, the Patchogue-Medford Library became a certified Sustainable Library in 2021 through the
Sustainable Libraries Initiative and New York Library Association, reflecting her commitment to environmental stewardship and forward-thinking leadership. Danielle has been instrumental in significant achievements, including reopening the historic Carnegie Library in 2016 and opening the new PatchogueMedford Library Medford Branch in 2024. Her leadership was also recognized with the prestigious 2023 John Cotton Dana Award for the innovative Window Aquarium project.
Danielle’s dedication extends beyond the library, as she serves as secretary of the Greater Patchogue Foundation, director and trustee for the Greater Patchogue and Medford Chambers of Commerce, and is an active member of the Patchogue Rotary. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2022 Medford Chamber of Commerce Member of the Year and the 2020 Honoree of the Power in Heels Award by the Patchogue Chamber. Danielle is a devoted wife to her husband of 22 years, Bryan, and a loving mother to their three daughters: Anna, Maggie, and Sarah. She is a true embodiment of dedication, leadership, and community spirit, inspiring her colleagues, friends, and the community at large.
Credit: South Country Central School District Bellport Multicultural Student Association
Credit: Office
Credit:
Office of Assemblyman DeStefano
Danielle Paisley
Credit:
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Circuit Rideshare Route Added to Improve Brentwood Transit Woes
A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place to commemorate the opening of the Circuit Brentwood Route.
A rideshare company “going green” in mission and in practice, Circuit—established in 2011— stresses eco-friendliness and carbon neutrality. They offer a convenient and more affordable alternative for those residing in areas rife with passengers electing Uber and Lyft transit; so long are the days of competing with other passengers in the neighborhood just to get to work and back.
The route will run every business day (Mon. through Friday) from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.—peak hours for commerce.
As is the case with any small but vastly populated town, congestion is imminent regardless. One former resident who has since relocated to nearby Deer Park anticipates the Circuit addition will "only make things worse," at least at first, but that traffic "is pretty bad as is." He believes it does not hurt to try solutions like these "when you've got nothing to lose."
Leaders in the town would, and
do beg to differ. Case in point: the purpose of the Brentwood Route commissioned through Circuit is to serve as a connection that did not exist prior between the Industrial Park and Brentwood itself.
Local legislators like Leslie Kennedy have cited this as a desperately underserved route, in terms of public transit, that will see immediate improvements with total cost-efficiency per the Circuit implementation.
Brentwood’s well-welcomed collaboration with Circuit Rideshare will be funded by a combination of public and private monies thanks to various grants, including one amounting to a $7 million commitment from the Long Island Power Authority.
Senior Vice President of the Long Island Power Authority Billy Raley was in attendance alongside Legislator Kennedy at last week’s grand opening event. Also on hand were: HIA Long Island President Terri Alessi-Micelli, interim president and chief executive officer of PSEG Long Island David C. Lyons, and the chairman and founder of Custom Computer Specialists, Greg G. Galdi.
Though he could not attend the grand opening due to a conflict, New York State Assembly Deputy Speaker Phil Ramos (D-Brentwood)
shared his optimism with The South Shore Press.
"The launch of the Circuit Brentwood Route marks a
significant step forward for our community, bringing us closer to achieving the state's goals of promoting cleaner, eco-friendly transportation options for all residents,” Assemblyman Ramos said.
“This initiative not only provides a sustainable and affordable way for people to get around,” he adds, “but also strengthens the connection between Brentwood and its neighboring Industrial Park. By reducing our carbon footprint and improving access to employment opportunities, this project exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking solutions we need to ensure a brighter future for our community."
Running on Plenty: USMC Vet...
Continued from page 8
Here, a post-race Freedom Fest, live music and food vendors welcomed exhausted participants.
Further reflecting upon a “gorgeous day” for his first Suffolk County Marathon run, Legislator
Lennon hopes that his efforts inspire others—-uniformed or not— to “keep going."
He believes athletic forums like the Suffolk County Marathon, and community-building organisms in general can instill in someone suffering from great strife the strength required to conquer their overwhelm.
“You might be in physical, mental or spiritual pain,” said Lennon, “but we keep going on and we’re all here to support each other—and you’re not alone.”
Collectors Clamoring for Trump Portrait by Local Artist
ByRobertChartuk
Artist Elaine Thompson has done it again, winning rave reviews and hot sales of her new work, “Trump—The Party of Lincoln.” She’s created stunning portraits of Theodore Roosevelt, George Washington, and John F. Kennedy, and expects to soon sell out 2,500 limited edition prints of the 45th president.
“Trump and Lincoln had a lot in common,” the Bohemia artist said of her decision to pair the two in her latest work. “They were both Republican longshot candidates with no political experience. Both were surrounded by dangerous people who wanted them impeached, jailed, or assassinated.”
Thompson notes that the reactions to their elections were very adverse during a divided nation. “Extreme media coverage
favored the Democrat party.
One newspaper called Lincoln a traitor. Like Trump, Lincoln was anti-racist and addressed the people directly with speeches to get their platforms known. The only difference was Lincoln did not tweet,” the artist joked. “Their wives were both snubbed. Most importantly, Trump and Lincoln defended America’s founding principles because of their love of their country.”
Thompson worked on the “Trump—The Party of Lincoln” painting for months, doing research in libraries and collecting ideas and photographic references. She also had several models pose to paint the precise details. The body model for the Trump figure was Suffolk GOP Chairman Jesse Garcia, the hand model for Trump was Thompson’s grandson, Army Ranger Jamie Mas, and the hand
model for Lincoln was Thompson’s son Richard Polizzi, who has recently passed away.
Thompson connected with the management of the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster after she met them at the 2019 PGA Championship at Bethpage. That is when she was invited to paint the New Jersey golf course and produced an edition of prints that quickly sold out.
Thompson is well known for her U.S. Open and PGA golf paintings and New York scenes, including The Big Duck in Flanders, Long
Island lighthouses, and the Statue of Liberty, as well as pets and Irish art.
In 1984, Thompson designed the official poster for the National Vietnam Memorial Statue in Washington at the request of President Ronald Reagan. Her next painting in the Presidential series will be Reagan atop his horse.
Limited edition Trump prints are going for $20 and up. The original painting is also available. Thompson has an art and framing gallery in Bohemia. For hours, call or text 516-380-7715 or
etcreation@optonline.net and www.thompsonart.us
Thompson will be at the Wet Paints Studio Group Holiday Art and Artisan Fair on Sat. Oct. 26 and Sun. Oct. 27 from 11 am to 4 pm at the Community House at 47 Gillette Avenue in Sayville. There will be original art and gifts for sale just in time for the holidays. This is a free event where you can meet the artists. An Artist Reception is Sun. Oct. 27, 2pm to 4pm. Refreshments served. For info call 631-332-7768 or pennyfaceart@yahoo.com
The Election Showdown...
Continued from page 2
Beyond that, I worry that a Harris presidency could mean chaos on both the domestic and international fronts. She has talked about adjusting to a “new normal,” which to me signals higher inflation, more economic instability, and a potential drift toward globalist policies. And if history teaches us anything, great empires—like the Roman and Ottoman—don’t last forever. The United States is approaching its 250th birthday. Could we be on the brink of decline, just as those great empires were?
A Crossroads for America
This election offers two starkly different futures. One path could lead us back to a focus
on American strength, free markets, and perhaps even space exploration. The other could take us down a road of increased government control, economic uncertainty, and the loss of American leadership on the world stage.
As we inch closer to that 250year mark, we face a choice: Will we rise above the fate of empires that came before us, or will we allow ourselves to follow their downward trajectory?
We’ve already seen the contrast between Trump’s first term, even with the unprecedented challenge of a global pandemic, and the Biden-Harris administration’s policies. Many Americans are now starting to reflect on the stability and growth that existed
even during turbulent times under Trump. As much as some criticize the COVID era of the Trump administration, many are beginning to wonder: Was it really so bad?
If Harris wins, I fear this will be the last truly open, free, and fair election in America. That’s why I’m urging everyone to make a plan to vote—early, absentee, or in person. This may be the most important election of our lifetimes, and it’s one where we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines.
I know it’s a lot to consider, but this week I felt it had to be said. We can’t ignore the stakes this time around, our future and way of life are on the ballot.
Legislator Kennedy Speaks at a Press Conference
Bohemia artist Elaine Thompson
Credit: Suffolk County Legislature
Credit: Elaine Thompson
ByStefanMychajliw
Walk To End Alzheimer's Raises
More than 620 people participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s® at Suffolk County Farm on Saturday, October 19th. Suffolk County residents raised more than $190,000 for the care, support, and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Judy Wichter, Associate Director of Development for the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter, says: “Thank you to our dedicated Eastern Long Island Walk participants, volunteers and sponsors who made Walk to End Alzheimer’s a success. The funds raised will help fuel disease research while also providing critical care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”
On walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our
solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
Ken Dobert, the leading Eastern Long Island Walk fundraising participant and caregiver for his wife, Maureen, diagnosed with dementia, says: “Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a very uplifting
day. As a member of the Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, our team has a large turnout of inspired parishioners who genuinely make a difference by supporting families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. We encourage everyone to be active and aware of this disease's impact on family and friends.”
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is
a day for everyone impacted by the disease to come together with their friends, loved ones, and community and feel supported. New York has the second-highest rate of Alzheimer’s of any state in the U.S. More than 426,000 New Yorkers are living with Alzheimer’s, including 30,500 in Suffolk County. Though Alzheimer’s remains a fatal disease, there are now two FDA-approved treatments to slow its progress, with more in development.
The Eastern Long Island Walk to End Alzheimer’s accepts donations through December 31 at act.alz.org/ easternli.
South Street School Students Learn Fire Safety
Central School District learned the importance of fire safety firsthand, during a visit from the Manorville Fire Department.
Stunning Ecological Discovery in Stony Brook
ByRobertChartuk
The collapse of Stony Brook’s Harbor Road dam and the draining of the centuries-old Mill Pond may have uncovered a previously unknown amphibian species, a discovery that has sent ripples of excitement through the environmental community.
A volunteer rescuing fish left high and dry by the sudden flood noticed what was at first thought to be a fishing lure. Upon further examination, it turned out to be a Northern Dusky Salamander, a creature not seen on Long Island for more than a century. Given its isolation at the Mill Pond, it may have developed into its own species.
“These salamanders were thought not to exist here anymore, and then they turned up right under our nose,” said John Turner of the Seatuck Environmental Association. “It’s a remarkable find.” Three were discovered near a freshwater stream at the southern end of the pond, which now resembles a mudflat after the dam let loose during an epic rainfall in August. “They have variations that lead us to believe they may be a new
species,” Turner said.
He’s reached out to the state herpetologist and scientists at the American Museum and the Smithsonian, who want to collect a sample to analyze the creature’s DNA. If confirmed, it would be the ninth type of salamander found on Long Island.
The Dusky’s relatives in the region include the Tiger Salamander, a rare pine barrens dweller that’s on the Endangered Species List. While the Southern Dusky is considered
a creature of concern, the Northern variety is not, except in Canada, where variations of it are considered endangered.
“Those individuals in Stony Brook have been reproductively isolated from other Northern Dusky Salamanders since at least 12,000 years ago when Long Island was formed,” Turner pointed out. We may be looking at something extraordinary.”
Gloria Rocchio, president of the Ward Melville Heritage
Organization, which owns the pond property, said the salamanders are common along its banks. “A block away, there is a resident who is a trustee, and she said she has them galore in her backyard. So it's not rare,” Rocchio said.
“That’s news to almost every naturalist on Long Island,” replied Turner, who advocates for letting waterways that had been dammed to flow free. He said he is unsure of how the discovery will affect the rebuilding of the Harbor Road dam. “We certainly want to see the stream intact and maybe even increase its length for the benefit of the species. So perhaps that means maybe the pond could be slightly reduced in size to accommodate a larger stream.”
“We’re highly enthusiastic about the possibility of having a new species on Long Island,” said Steve Brown of East Setauket, a member of the Brookhaven Town Open Space Committee. “This shows that our environment is a healthy one and we need to protect it. With their very sensitive skin, amphibians are among the first to perish when an area is contaminated.”
Turner estimated a lower dam height may be in order, and perhaps a ladder to allow passage of eels, alewives, and other fish from West Meadow Creek into the upland waters. “So much habitat has been eliminated over the years,” Turner said. “Our ecological friends have been severed.”
Rocchio characterized the pond restoration as a complex undertaking since the Town of Brookhaven is rebuilding the Harbor Road dam and various entities, such as Suffolk County and the state Department of Environmental Conservation, are involved. The pond served as a catch basin for the natural spring and runoff from state and town roads and Stony Brook University. It was a serene landmark enjoyed by generations, and many residents want it restored to its original splendor.
“The pond was always here, a place of peace, and now it’s gone,” said Pam Rizzo of St. James. We were walking here just the day before the storm, enjoying the swans and the tranquility. I hope they can return it to its natural beauty.”
Alzheimer’s Association Walk To End Alzheimer’s In Yaphank
Northern Dusky Salamander found in Stony Brook.
$190,000
Credit: Alzheimer's Association
Alzheimer’s Association Walk To End Alzheimer’s In Yaphank
Credit: Alzheimer's Association
Alzheimer’s Association Walk To End Alzheimer’s In Yaphank
Credit: Alzheimer's Association
Credit: John Turner
BySouthShorePress South Street School students in the Eastport-South Manor
Credit: Eastport-South Manor Central School District South Street Students are pictured with a Manorville Fire Department fire truck.
ByDeborahWilliams
LaLota v. Avlon Race Sparks Interest in Coram Civic Association Endorsements
Policy over party politics played a key role in the Coram Civic Association’s endorsement of Democrat challenger John Avlon over incumbent Republican Nick LaLota in the congressional race. The mundane topic of ZIP codes even played a role in the endorsement.
Coram Civic Association held a Meet the Candidates night and announced its endorsements after roughly 70 of the 500 members who came to the meeting voted.
Those endorsed are:
Donald J. Trump (R) over Kamala Harris (D), incumbent Vice-president.
U.S. Congress: John Avlon (D) over incumbent Nick LaLota (R).
New York State Assembly: Rebecca Kassay (D) over incumbent Ed Flood (R).
New York State Senate: Dean Murray (R, Incumbent) over Michael Conroy (D).
New York State Senate: Anthony Palumbo (R, Incumbent) – over Sarah Anker (D).
South Shore Press (SSP) spoke with Kareem Nugalla, President of Coram Civic Association, and Dave Cion, vice-president, about the endorsement process and issues that were important to the Coram members.
Both Republicans and Democrats received support from the Association surprising some that both Donald Trump and a left-leaning Democrat could be endorsed by the same organization.
Nagulla said, “Maybe there was an expectation that there would be a straight Republican line to
our endorsements. People may have that perception because the vice president and myself are Republicans. But we represent the community, and the community here is mixed. We don't vote based on party lines. We vote based on the candidate and what the candidate is actually going to do for our community. For us, it’s policies over personality.”
SSP dug into why Avlon received the endorsement over LaLota to find out a bit more about the issues and details. Retail politics and ZIP codes played a key role.
LaLota did not attend the Candidate Night and some might wonder if that was the reason he did not receive the endorsement. That was not a factor said Nagulla and Cion. “LaLota didn't show up, but he had a good reason. We don't hold it against him that he was in Congress doing what was necessary for our country. He was in Washington, D.C. doing his job as congressman, so we don't hold that against him.
“But also, at the same time, Avlon did show up and the people who were there who heard what he had to say despite him being a Democrat and being more aligned with the left, he seemed very middle of the road to us,” Nagulla said. “And a lot of things he was saying resonated with the community based on the issues that the community is facing. So it's not a shock to us that members wanted to support him.
“In the end, regardless of party, Coram Civic Association took a poll of the community and the majority of the people at the meeting wanted to endorse Avlon, so we did.” Cion said, “That night, he (Avlon) was the only one
that actually made a commitment specific to Coram and I think that's what rang the loudest with our members.”
Cion said, “We've had a lot of neglect in Coram. I'm a Republican, and I am strong on my conservative values, but at the same time, Coram is in a state of emergency. People don't really want to look at it like that, but it is a dangerous place at times. It needs a closer hand on the dials.”
“It's one of those things where we can't continue to neglect a place that needs help so badly. There were many things that Avlon said about the need for public safety and he spoke about government grants federal government grants and working hand-inhand with the local governments to ensure that Coram can get these applications in for grants,” Cion added.
“The vote for Avlon over LaLota was not close, but it was also not landslide territory either. There are always people who vote along party lines no matter what and in that sense LaLota had some support. But while Avlon is running as a
Credit: CoramCivic.org
Democrat, he presented himself as very moderate and extremely knowledgeable on local issues,” said Nagulla.
Cion Said, “A fresh voice someone that's taking Coram personally was a very loud statement to the members.
“The Republican Party might not want to hear this but Avlon won over people who are diehard Republicans. He did not come off as extremely liberal, and that resonated with people. The vote for Avlon was not a vote for the Democrat Party it was a vote for Avlon himself, the individual,” Nagulla added.
There is little doubt that Avlon spoke to the Civic Association members about on-the-ground retail politics and brought clear action items to the table. It is just as clear that LaLota dropped the ball on an issue key to the association. This is where what seems like a simple thing like a ZIP code becomes a much more complicated issue.
Nagulla said, “You can see in the statistics generated by ZIP code, it would appear that each
area Coram, Middle Island, and Medford all have their fair share of sex offenders, but they are heavily concentrated in Gordon Heights.”
ZIP codes are important because they drive so much data and with that data allocation of resources follows. If the ZIP codes are not assigned in a way that makes sense geographically or by town, or in this case hamlet, crime can appear to be more widespread than it is and the places that really need resources don’t get it. Coram Civic Association advocated for Gordon Heights to have its own ZIP code so that crime can be more accurately measured and resources go to where they are needed most.
“We did go to LaLota with this issue and nothing ever materialized. We don't have anything against him, but that was something that when we endorsed him the last time around, we were hoping for the ZIP code issue to be addressed and the fact that didn't materialize is a problem for our members.”
Nagula said, “LaLota’s office claimed that they wanted to rename the Coram post office the Coram/Gordon Heights post office, and we were 100% okay with this as long as it meant Gordon Heights got its own ZIP code. After several attempts to set up a meeting, we gave up. But the issue still stands and it's one we hope to pick up with when Avlon takes office.
“Sure, nobody is perfect. We give credit where credit is due, but we also give criticism where criticism is due. We were hoping for something and his (LaLota’s) office unfortunately did not deliver.”
School District Honors Lawmaker for 50 Years of Service
ByStefanMychajliw
The Eastport-South Manor Central School District honored New York State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. for spending 50 years of service to the district and taxpayers.
instrumental in securing resources and creating policies that benefit the district’s schools and community.
Superintendent of Schools
Joseph A. Steimel noted that during Assemblyman Thiele’s 50 years of public service, his efforts have been
“Your commitment to education and your tireless advocacy for our students have made a lasting impact on our school community,” Mr. Steimel said. “We deeply appreciate your understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing public education and your willingness to work collaboratively with us to ensure that every student receives a high-quality education.”
Board of Education Vice President Marion Diener described Assemblyman Thiele as a “compassionate and wonderful man” and explained that he always answered the district’s calls and showed up to important events over the years.
Board President Jeffrey
Goldhammer called the assemblyman a “great friend to ESM” and announced that a bench has been purchased to commemorate
Mr. Thiele’s tireless service. The bench will be placed next to the district’s newly refurbished baseball field.
Coram Civic Association Meet The Candidates Banner
ESM Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel (left) and Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele
Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. (center) is pictured with the Eastport-South Manor Board of Education.
Credit: ESM School District
Credit: ESM School District
ByRobertChartuk
Early Voting Starts Saturday
The voters of Suffolk can cast their ballots for president, Congress, state officials, and judges starting Saturday, October 26 through November 3. They can also cast ballots at their regular polling place on Election Day, November 5.
Voters are reminded to flip over the ballot to decide on two propositions: one to change the state Constitution and the other to increase the sales tax an eighth of a cent for sewers and cesspool upgrades.
Administered through the Suffolk Board of Elections, polling stations will be open at the following locations:
North Amityville Fire Department
601 Broadway, Amityville
North Babylon Fire Department
20 Hale Road, North Babylon
Wyandanch Public Library
14 South 20th Street, Wyandanch
Greenlawn Fire Department
23 Boulevard Ave., Greenlawn Huntington Library Station Branch
1335 New York Ave., Huntington Station
Dix Hills Fire Department
115 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills
Nesconset Elementary School
54 Browns Road, Nesconset
Kings Park High School
200 East Main Street, Kings Park
H. Lee Dennison Building
100 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge
St. Anne's Hall (formerly Knights of Columbus)
96 2nd Avenue, Brentwood
Islip Town Hall Annex
401 Main Street, Islip
West Islip Senior Center
90 Higbie Lane, West Islip
Greenbelt Recreation Center
281 Patchogue-Holbrook Road, Holtsville
Connetquot Public Library
760 Ocean Ave., Bohemia
Rose Caracappa Senior Center
739 NY-25A, Mount Sinai
South Country Ambulance
420 Station Road, Bellport
Bayport-Blue Point Public Library
186 Middle Road, Blue Point
Suffolk County Board of Elections
700 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank
Robert Reid Recreation Center
Defense Hill Road, Shoreham
Brookhaven Town Hall
1 Independence Hill, Farmingville
Mastic Volunteer Ambulance
1630 Montauk Highway, Mastic
Manorville Fire Department
16 Silas Carter Road, Manorville
Windmill Village
219 Accabonac Road, East Hampton
Shelter Island Youth Recreation Center
1 Bateman Road, Shelter Island
SUNY Stony Brook
Southampton Gym
70 Tuckahoe Road, Southampton
St Mark's Episcopal Church
40 Main Street, Westhampton
Southold Town Recreation Center
970 Peconic Lane, Peconic
Riverhead Town Hall
4 West Second Street, Riverhead
Voting Hours:
Saturday 10/26 – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 10/27 – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Monday 10/28 – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10/29 – 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday 10/30 – 7:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.
Thursday 10/31 – 12:00 p.m.8:00 p.m.
Friday 11/1 – 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 11/2 – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 11/3 – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Kamala Clown Show...
Continued from page 2
Harris is taking immense heat for skipping the Al Smith dinner, while President Trump is dominating the news media cycle with his no holds barred speech where he verbally eviscerated Harris.
"There's a group called 'White Dudes for Harris' but I'm not worried about them at all, because their wives and their wives' lovers are all voting for me," Trump said.
At the same time, the current Vice President is being held accountable for her train wreck, dumpster fire of an interview with Fox News. She never, ever should have said “yes” to it. One of the many embarrassing gaffes is when Harris dodged a question about the country being on the wrong track.
“You and I both know what I’m talking about,” said Harris as she bizarrely blamed President Trump for her record of being in
office for the past three and a half years.
“I actually don’t. What are you talking about,” shot back Baier.
America doesn’t know what she’s talking about concerning the word salad that often flows from her indecipherable dialect. Same can be said for President Biden right now.
As for Harris, her campaign team she surrounded herself with didn't have the heart or brains (or both) to insist she speaks at the Al Smith dinner and avoid (in their minds) hostile press like Fox News.
If they fumble and fail on simple decisions on whether or not to conduct interviews and speaking engagements, how is this clown show of a team expected to handle a crisis like war while in the White House Situation Room?
They can’t. So please choose wisely on November 5th.
Bayport Firefighters Visit Academy Street Elementary
BySouthShorePress
In honor of Fire Prevention
Month, firefighters from the Bayport Fire Department visited Academy Street Elementary School
in the Bayport-Blue Point School District for a presentation on fire safety.
Firefighter Ray Cooney spoke to students at all grade levels about
the importance of calling 911 and what to say during the call. He also emphasized the importance of having smoke alarms in the home and what to do if you’re ever trapped in a room during a fire.
Brookhaven Highway Goes Pink
ByStefanMychajliw
Every October, the Brookhaven Highway Department participates in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the need for early detection, treatment, and research for all types of cancer.
In recognition of National
Mammography Day, workers encouraged folks to donate to:
* American Cancer Society at Donate.Cancer.org.
* Fortunato Breast Health Center at MatherHospital.org/ donate-now
* LI2DAY at LI2DayWalk.org
Ms. Almskog’s second grade students
Firefighter Ray Cooney
Firefighter Ray Cooney
Credit: Bayport-Blue Point School District
Credit: Bayport-Blue Point School District
Credit: Bayport-Blue Point School District
ByDeborahWilliams
State Extends Application Deadline for Suffolk Homeowners That Were Crushed by August's Storms
Eligible Suffolk County homeowners who suffered damage from the historic storm on August 18-19 now have extra time to submit their emergency repair grant requests for help.
The deadline has been extended until November 8 to give struggling homeowners as much time as possible to submit their claims. Eligible Suffolk and Nassau County homeowners can apply for up to $50,000 in emergency home repair aid. Go to www.lihp.org for information on how to apply.
After the flash flooding caused by record rainfall on August 18-19, 2024, many homeowners on Long Island sustained substantial damage to their homes. New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is making funds available to
assist income-eligible homeowners impacted by the storm. The program offers emergency home repair assistance or reimbursement to affected homeowners in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
This assistance will be available to homeowners whose primary residence sustained storm damage and for whom home and/or flood insurance coverage or other forms of disaster recovery funds are not sufficient to return the home to safe and habitable condition.
“This is good news for the residents who took a beating from that storm,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano. “I’m glad Gov. Hochul recognizes the need for assistance and is working with us to get the
word out that people have until November 8 to apply.”
Gov. Kathy Hochul extended the application deadline for the grants administered by (HCR). Funding up to $50,000 may be used for emergency housing repairs necessary to make the home safe, sanitary and habitable.
“Extreme weather events have become all too common in our state, and my administration is committed to providing relief to New Yorkers in need,” Gov. Hochul said. “These emergency repair grants are giving families the opportunity to rebuild — providing a lifeline to New Yorkers as they recover from these devastating storms.
Registration Now Open for Women in the Workforce Workshop
Credit: Adobe AI Call 631-451-9127 for registration
ByStefanMychajliw
If you’re a woman looking for a job or feel like a promotion should be in the works for your current job, registrations are now open for the Town of Brookhaven “Dress for Success” program.
On October 29th, 2024, the Town of Brookhaven Women’s Services Division will present its first session of the free Career EDGE Job Readiness series.
This free program is designed to help unemployed and under-employed women gain professional skills, accelerate their job search, and build confidence through weekly training sessions, one-on-one career coaching and networking in a supportive environment.
The Career EDGE Job Readiness classes will be held on Tuesday nights from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. on October 29th, November 12th, 19th, 26th and December 3rd, 2024, at Sachem Library located at 150 Holbrook Road in Holbrook, NY.
Women interested in participating can register online at BrookhavenNY.gov/ CareerEdge.
Dress for Success Career
EDGE job Readiness program is a seminar series for women seeking employment. It provides the opportunity to work with a great network of professional women, businesspeople and expert speakers and designed to meet the needs of women in our area who are ready to make a move and get the right job. This program is presented by Dress for Success Brookhaven and there is no cost to participants.
The free Career Edge Job Readiness Series is a unique program for women who are unemployed or under-employed. In just 5 weeks, participants will:
•Increase your knowledge and confidence on securing a job
•Create your personal brand and marketing strategy
•Learn how to find and apply for the job that’s right for you
•Build a focused resume and prepare to ace your interview
•Receive one-on-one career coaching
•Receive a Dress for Success professional suiting experience
•Explore networking tools including LinkedIn
•Participate in a sisterhood of women to share your journey
Please contact Dress for Success
Guilty
Brookhaven to learn more about the Career Edge Job Readiness series. E-mail Brookhaven@ dressforsuccess.org or leave a
detailed message at 631-4519127. Space is limited. Early registration is recommended.
Plea Secured in Hit-and-Run that Killed Beloved Firefighter
ByStefanMychajliw
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced that Maria GuallpaBonilla, 36, of Bellport, pleaded guilty to Leaving the Scene of an Incident Without Reporting for her role in a crash that occurred on June 10, 2024, resulting in the death of 22-year-old Christopher Hlavaty of East Patchogue.
“This defendant’s actions in leaving a young man to die on the road, after striking and running over his body, were callous and unconscionable,” said District Attorney Tierney. “Ms. GuallpaBonilla was more concerned about the consequences that she would face, rather than rendering aid to Christopher Hlavaty. Motorcyclists have the right to drive on the streets in Suffolk County without having to worry that they are going to get struck by a vehicle and left to die. We hope this plea will give Mr. Hlavaty’s family and loved ones some small measure of justice.”
According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during her guilty plea allocution, on the night of June 10, 2024, Guallpa-Bonilla left her job on Medford Avenue in Patchogue.
At approximately 10:47 p.m., she drove a blue 2001 Mercury Cougar westbound on East Main Street in Patchogue, without another licensed driver in the vehicle she was operating, as required by her permit restrictions.
As Guallpa-Bonilla made a left-hand turn to proceed southbound on Rider Avenue, she struck an eastbound motorcycle that was operated by Hlavaty, who had the right of way.
After driving over Hlavaty’s body with the front and rear tires of the car, the defendant left the scene without stopping or rendering aid to him and failed to report the collision to law enforcement.
Hlavaty, a volunteer firefighter from Hagerman Fire Department, later died as a result of the injuries he sustained from the crash.
Car parts found by law enforcement at the scene of the collision were determined to belong to a 2001 Mercury Cougar. Two days later, police located the vehicle in the driveway of her residence, allegedly covered with a tarp to
prevent it from being observed by the authorities.
Guallpa-Bonilla pleaded guilty to Leaving the Scene of an Incident Without Reporting, a Class D felony, before Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei. Under current New York State law, the maximum sentence that Guallpa-Bonilla faces on the top count is two to seven years in prison.
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office recommended Guallpa-Bonilla be sentenced to two to six years in prison.
Guallpa-Bonilla is due back in court for sentencing on December 4, 2024.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Raymond Varuolo of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Joseph Bianco of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Major Case Unit.
Credit: X
Historic storm flooding
Credit: Suffolk County DA Maria Guallpa-Bonilla mugshot
ByStefanMychajliw
Suffolk County Cop and School Teacher Accused of Running Prostitution Ring
Suffolk County District
Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced the indictment of Frank Saggio, George Trimigliozzi, Steven Arey, and Dana Ciardullo, accused of Enterprise Corruption and Promoting Prostitution, among other charges, for allegedly running multiple brothels in Suffolk County.
Trimigliozzi is an 18-year veteran of the Suffolk County Police Department. Prosecutors paint a picture of a rogue cop who abused the badge by falsifying official records and even responded to a call of a “john” being the victim of a robbery at the illegal brothel he allegedly helped manage.
The now cuffed cop is accused by prosecutors of managing the den of prostituion with Arey, an educator in the Islip School District.
“It is a sad day in law enforcement when a public servant is arrested. However, I made a commitment to this county that no one is above the law, and that includes those who are supposed to embody the best of public service,” said District Attorney Tierney. “The
allegations in this indictment describe a long-term pattern of organized criminal activity and a shocking betrayal of public trust.”
According to the years-long investigation, between October 2019 and June 2024, Saggio was allegedly the leader of a criminal enterprise that profited from the systematic promotion of prostitution at two locations in Suffolk County.
Members of the alleged Saggio Prostitution Enterprise include Trimigliozzi, an 18-year veteran of the Suffolk County Police Department; Arey, a 26-year employee of the Islip School District; and Ciardullo, Saggio’s girlfriend.
Each of the criminal defendants are alleged to have unlawfully promoted prostitution by hiring sex workers, collecting proceeds of prostitution from sex workers known as “house fees,” and posting advertisements seeking patrons of prostitution.
Trimigliozzi and Arey allegedly served as managers on Saggio’s behalf at a building located on Sunrise Highway in Holbrook known as the American Girls Spa “Suite 3.” The Sunrise Highway building also contained two
additional brothels allegedly managed by Saggio: Spa “Suite 4” and Reiki for Healing “Suite 5.”
Ciardullo, the fourth member of the alleged criminal enterprise, served as a manager on Saggio’s behalf at a location in West Babylon known as the Tunnel of Love. The investigation further uncovered that an alleged robbery occurred at the American Girls Spa on March 19, 2021.
Trimigliozzi, in his capacity as a manager of the brothel, was called by a sex worker who reported a customer had been robbed while waiting for prostitution services at the American Girls Spa.
The sex worker further
notified Trimigliozzi that police officers would be dispatched to the location in response to the prostitution customer’s call to 911.
Trimigliozzi, who was on duty as a police officer at the time, allegedly abandoned his assigned post in the Third Precinct without permission from the police department and drove at a speed nearing 90 miles per hour in his marked patrol car to the brothel in Holbrook, which was located in the confines of the Fifth Precinct.
The Suffolk County police officer then allegedly falsified paperwork with the police department in which he did not disclose his unauthorized response to the American Girls
Spa in Holbrook.
Trimigliozzi, who has been suspended without pay, also allegedly falsified the records of the police department by not disclosing to the department his outside employment as a manager in Saggio’s alleged criminal enterprise.
Saggio was also indicted on two counts of Sex Trafficking related to his alleged requirement that sex workers engage in prostitution to pay him a minimum amount of money each month.
Specifically, he allegedly had sex workers who could not read or speak in English sign purported leases which required them to (1) pay $6,000 per month at Suite 4, and (2) $12,000 per month at Tunnel of Love.
The defendants were each arraigned on the indictment before Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Bureau Chief Laura de Oliveira and Bureau Chief Kevin Ward of the Public Corruption Bureau. The investigation was conducted by investigators assigned to the District Attorney’s Public Corruption Squad.
Crazed Criminal Who Fired Bullets Outside Zeldin's Home is Sentenced
ByStefanMychajliw
The man who admitted to firing gunshots outside the home of former Congressman Lee Zeldin learned his fate in a Suffolk County courtroom, as the convicted triggerman was sentenced to more than a decade in prison.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney confirmed that Noah Green, 20, of Shirley, was sentenced to 12 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, and other related charges, for shooting at three people, striking two of them in the chest, in front of the former gubernatorial candidate’s home in October 2022.
Green was one of 18 defendants indicted in December 2022 following a long-term investigation into violence committed by a criminal street organization, “No Fake Love.”
"This was a horrific act of gang-related violence that put innocent lives at risk. The defendant’s decision to open fire
on a residential neighborhood, with two young girls inside the home he shot towards, demonstrates a complete disregard for human life,” said District Attorney Tierney.
Green admitted to leaving his home with another individual and got into a stolen 2022 Honda CRV. While Green was driving the vehicle, police said he encountered three rival gang members walking down the street in front of Zeldin’s house.
Law enforcement said Green shot a torrent of bullets from the vehicle, striking two of the individuals in the chest. Both men survived.
During the shooting, Congressman Zeldin’s daughters were inside doing homework.
Afterward, Green boasted on social media and through other electronic communications about committing the shooting to alleged fellow gang members. Green frequently posted his gang affiliation on social media accounts, posted photos and videos of himself and other gang members with weapons and stolen vehicles, and boasted on
social media as a way to taunt and challenge rivals.
In October of 2022, police conducted surveillance when they spotted Green leaving his residence in Shirley and entered the driver’s seat of the stolen 2022 Honda CRV. Members of law enforcement then approached Green, who immediately exited the stolen vehicle and began running away in an attempt to evade arrest.
During their pursuit, Green continuously refused to comply with the officers’ commands and began reaching for his pants pocket, where law enforcement
later recovered a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol with a high-capacity magazine.
A microscopic examination of the firearm revealed that this was the same pistol Green had used to commit the October 9th shooting outside of Zeldin’s home.
Additionally, a search of the 2022 Honda CRV revealed that shell casings from the October 9th shooting were still lodged between the windshield and the hood of the vehicle.
On September 12, 2024, Green pleaded guilty to the following
charges before Acting Supreme Court Justice Anthony S. Senft, Jr.:
* Three counts of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Class B violent felonies
* Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, Class C violent felonies
* One count of Conspiracy in the Second Degree, a Class B felony.
Justice Hon. Anthony S. Senft, Jr. sentenced Green to 12 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Martha Duffy and Donald Barclay of the Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau. The overall investigation into the No Fake Love gang was conducted by District Attorney Investigator Jean Graf of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Gang Task Force, and the investigation into the October 2022 shooting was conducted by Detective Michael Yonelunas of the Suffolk County Police Department.
Credit: SCPD
Credit: Suffolk County DA's Office
Cop and Teacher Busted in Prostitution Ring
Noah Green Mugshot
ByDeborahWilliams
Hochul Gets an "F" on Fiscal Restraint—2nd Worst in the Nation
The CATO Institute, a Libertarian think tank, issued its 2024 fiscal report card on United States Governors and gave New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul an “F” rating. The report lists a laundry list of tax increases that have escalated costs for New Yorkers since Hochul came to office in 2021.
Hochul is not alone on the “F” report card. Five other governors, all Democrats, also received an “F” grade—Tony Evers of Wisconsin, John Carney of Delaware, Jay Inslee of Washington, Janet Mills of Maine, and Tim Walz of Minnesota.
Gov. Walz, now running with Kamala Harris for the White House, scored the lowest rating of all 50 governors, dead last, with only 19 out of 100 points. Hochul is the second-worst scoring governor
in the nation with just 29 out of 100 points.
Six other governors, all Republicans, received a grade of A: Kim Reynolds of Iowa, Jim Pillen of Nebraska, Jim Justice of West Virginia, Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas, Kristi Noem of South Dakota, and Greg Gianforte of Montana.
This report grades governors on their fiscal policies from a limited-government perspective. Governors receiving an A have cut taxes and spending the most. Governors receiving an F have increased taxes and spending the most. Low grades are all about taxes, taxes, taxes.
The grading mechanism is based on seven variables: two spending variables, one revenue variable, and four tax-rate variables. Cato’s state fiscal report has used the same
HISTORY LESSONS
BY RICHARD ACRITELLI
“What a man does for himself, dies with him. What a man does for his community lives long after he's gone.”
- President Theodore Roosevelt Roosevelt’s words surely addressed the efforts of Wyoming resident Dan Starks' creation of the National Museum of Military Vehicles in DuBois, Wyoming. Nestled near the Grand Teton Mountains in the northwestern part of this state, it is an immense private collection that is housed within a 140,000 square foot facility. The National Veterans of Foreign Wars and Starks recently sponsored a trip for educators from different parts of this nation to visit this sprawling military educational museum.
As one of the teachers that fortunately was able to attend this trip, the participants were chosen by their local Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts that later was selected by senior members of this organization to win their states. In March, emails were sent to the top five educators that were picked by the National Veterans of Foreign Wars from Kansas City, Missouri. These teachers traveled from Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia.
methodology since 2008 making their ratings one of the most consistent available.
Where did Hochul fall flat according to the CATO ranking?
In the spending category, Hochul approved the acceleration of previously enacted income tax cuts that cost the state’s bottom line. She claimed there were $1.2 billion in tax cuts, but the savings for typical families were small. Hochul also approved the suspension of the gas tax for six months in 2022. Tax cuts are popular with many taxpayers, but they do come at a cost to the state budget that relies on those revenues.
CATO says that in 2023, Hochul switched from expensive tax cuts to tax hikes.
“From a tax perspective, New York is a lousy place to do business, and Hochul has made it worse.” She increased the top corporate tax rate from 6.5 percent to 7.25 percent through 2026. These changes raised taxes about $1.2 billion a year. New York ranks second to last among the 50 states on the Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index.
“She also approved a large increase in a payroll tax called the Metropolitan Transportation Mobility Tax increasing the top rate of the tax from 0.34 percent to 0.60 percent of wages for workers
in New York City. The hike drains another $1 billion a year from taxpayers to fund the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA),” say the CATO report.
NY has the highest cigarette tax rate in the nation and Hochul hiked the cigarette tax even further from $4.35 to $5.35 per pack raising about $200 million a year. CATO points to this high tax rate incentivizing substantial black-market activity and criminal activity.
New York’s Green New Deal also imposes massive costs on New Yorkers. Hochul’s “cap and invest” program, which is supposed to counter climate change, is incredibly expensive. These costs will land in the pockets of every New Yorker.
All these tax increases will speed the exodus of New Yorkers to lowertax states. A Marist poll found that 37 percent of New Yorkers say they are planning to leave the state. IRS data show that New York lost a net 108,000 households to other states in 2022. CATO says, “Most troubling for New York’s economy is that high earners are leaving in droves and taking their wealth and skills with them.”
CATO concludes their assessment of Hochul by saying, “The exodus will continue as long as New York’s government remains highly inefficient. New York has two million fewer residents than Florida, but its total state and local government spending is 81 percent higher than Florida’s.”
A Military History Vision Near the Grand Tetons of Dubois, Wyoming
All of these participants had prior military veterans, immediately bonded together, and were thrilled to meet at Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to represent their school districts and VFWs.
After eating breakfast together and speaking about their teaching responsibilities and military experiences, we all met Starks. An extremely successful business leader and a well-known figure in Wyoming, he was an extremely approachable and likable figure. He looked, sounded, acted, like the group, answered all questions, and you quickly noticed the genuine personality of this special leader. A native of Buffalo, New York, Starks is an interesting person, as he left high school in the tenth grade and matriculated in a liberal arts college, where he studied the humanities.
In 1979, Starks enrolled into the University of Minnesota Law School and later became a partner in a prestigious law firm. Starks was later presented with the challenge of rebuilding a bankrupt medical device business. Running Daig, Starks was an executive and later a president who returned it back to profitability and to provide a vast monetary return to the shareholders. Twenty-eight years ago, Daig was purchased by St. Jude
Medical, and while Starks expected to retire, he later became a CEO of this failing company. Like with Daig, he again added to the profits for the shareholders, and earned additional money towards his net worth.
Running a Fortune 500 business was a high-stress job, as Starks and his wife wanted to retire somewhere in the Rocky Mountains. They were intrigued by the beautiful landscape of this part of Wyoming that bordered the Shoshone National Forest’s Absaroka Range. Using local construction crews, his home took several years to build, as he and his wife were pleased to live in a double-wide trailer amongst the beauty of this land and the
community of Dubois that has only 911 residents. Pretty soon, Starks, who has a brilliant mind towards collecting and speaking about military history, purchased and restored tanks and military vehicles. Buying his first tank for $50,000, he quickly engrossed himself in buying a vast array of tanks, trucks, jeeps, weapons, and swords. Being semiretired and moving to Dubois full time, he continued to purchase a large amount of military hardware. At home, Starks gave tours of his growing vehicle collection. In 2018, the major process of privately building this museum began, as Starks never asked the state government of Wyoming for any funds. Spending over $100,000 of
his own money, by Memorial Day, 2022, this museum was opened, and it has emerged into one of the finest collections in the world.
Heading northwards towards Dubois, the beauty of Wyoming was astounding, as these teachers were treated to a truly notable trip. Driving, Starks was also a tour guide, as he answered multiple questions about the Teton Mountains, the viewing of the bison, and the scenery of the Continental Divide. Reaching Dubois, Starks was proud of this small town that welcomed his family and in return, he was generous towards the people and businesses of this area. Once a powerful business leader who surely traveled to many highly populated cities across this nation and enjoyed different types of cuisine, Starks was pleased with the small Americana restaurants in this town.
Leaving Highway 26, Starks was asked about a Soviet MIG Fighter plane that was on his property, as he quickly stated that he had three of these aircraft. Walking towards this museum, Starks built masonry walls with etchings in black granite from major leaders like president’s George Washington, Harry S. Truman, Ronald Reagan, and General Douglas MacArthur.
Continued on
A train loaded with a shipment of military tanks
Credit: Mark Winfrey | Dreamstime.com
Hochul gets and "F" for fiscal restraint.
States that scored F on fiscal restraint.
Credit: CATO Institute
Credit: CATO Institute
BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.
The National Center on Elder Abuse defines financial exploitation as the “illegal, unauthorized or improper use of an older person’s resources for monetary or personal benefit, profit or gain, or that results in depriving an older person of rightful access to, or use of, benefits, resources, belongings, or assets.” Exploitation tends to be more prevalent in the aging community, specifically targeting those that are over 65 years old and have some form of mental or physical incapacity.
While we are all subject to financial exploitation, especially in this high-tech world where scamming has become extremely widespread, a member of the elder community who has spent their life accumulating assets and building up their estate, coupled with a physical and/or mental
impairment and the difficulty to understand and appreciate their finances, makes for an ideal victim of financial exploitation.
Financial exploitation comes in many forms. It includes, but is not limited to false or misleading solicitation by hired professionals, such as a financial advisor trying to sell products that are not financially sound; email and telemarketing scams, such as a fake charity requesting a donation; misuse of estate planning documents like a power of attorney; calls and/or texts from someone pretending to be a “known individual” requesting money, or calls/ texts from someone pretending to be from a company one uses regularly. Even worse could be abuse perpetrated by close family or friends with access to your accounts. Additionally, those with a physical impairment may be forced to rely on the aide and
Avoid the Scammers: Protecting from Financial Exploitation
assistance of others, opening the door for others to take advantage.
How can you be proactive now to avoid financial abuse in the future? As a starting point, know your finances. Keep track of your accounts and the expenses you incur every month. Pay attention to any unusual activity in your accounts, no matter how slight. For example, look for variations to your bank account balance that are out of the norm or changes in ownership that were done without your personal authorization. These are red flags that should be addressed upon discovery.
Additional measures include adding a trusted person as an agent or joint owner on accounts as an additional person monitoring account activity or set up notifications for activity on the accounts. Be sure that all online accounts are password
A Military History Vision...
Near the main entrance, Starks built a vault that could handle the gold that is stored in New York City’s Federal Reserve Bank. Inside this secured room was a musket that originated from the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775, that could have started the Revolutionary War. There were an abundant number of weapons, bayonets, and armaments that were utilized by our military within every major American war. Next, there was a mini theater to show the mission of this museum that had a “Taking Chance” movie poster of Chance Phelps that was signed by President Geoge W. Bush. This movie depicts the military escort duty of a deceased combat soldier who was killed in battle and brought back to Dubois, Wyoming.
Reaching this museum, you will quickly see the tastefully completed number of exhibits, vehicles, tanks, helicopters, PT-Boats, Higgins Landing Craft, and mannequins of military forces from both sides of a conflict. There were huge informational boards, pictures, leaders, quotes, and statistics from American
conflicts of World War I/ II, the Korean and Vietnam War. Starks has plans of expanding this museum to cover the most recent American military history. Every step of the way, Starks presented numerous details, stories of leaders and equipment. He allowed these older teachers, who acted like young kids, to jump up on a tank, and were able to climb into this impressive piece of armor. Observing the energy of Starks, all the educators were impressed with his knowledge of these fighting armaments. Accompanying us was the National VFW Program Directory Lynn W. Rolf III, who stated that this unique trip presents the “VFW’s sponsored involvement in citizenship education is paramount in shaping the positive future of this nation.” There was a look at the Civil Rights Movement, the Internment of Japanese Americans, the Holocaust, and the Tuskegee Airmen. There was a unique presentation of television during the late 1960s and the views that stated the inability of President Lyndon B. Johnson to win the Vietnam War.
In front of the “Unknown Soldier Weapons Vault,” we all thanked Starks for his time and support in bringing us from several different states to Dubois, Wyoming. We took a group picture and began the trip back to Jackson Hole, where we stopped on the road to see a moose and to take pictures of the beautiful scenery of the red sun setting off the mountains. Sitting down for dinner in the hotel, Starks was at home with this group, he made us all laugh, and in turn, we brought a smile to his face. These educators from different states all fully believed in the importance of this museum, and we all vowed to visit Starks' creation in the very near future. In the early Twentieth Century, wealthy Americans like Andrew Carnegie, began using their wealth for the betterment of this nation. Starks accepts these vital beliefs that the wealthy should give back to their communities. If you’re ever in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, drive your vehicle northward, and once you make it through the Grand Tetons, you will encounter a wonder of the world through this military learning center.!!!!!
protected and, if possible, require a two-step verification for login. When it comes to scammers contacting you directly through phone or email, it is important to think before acting. Ask more questions or get a second opinion, seek advice from a known professional or loved one, and withhold personal and financial information unless you are sure it is necessary. Do not click on links in emails unless you know the sender and also are expecting an attachment or link from them. Finally, do not reply or answer calls from numbers you do not know, even if the number looks legitimate. Scammers have become extremely savvy and know that the more familiar an email, call or text looks, the more likely you will respond.
And finally, build a team.! Identify trusted family and friends with whom you are
able to share personal and financial information. But it is also important to have a team of professionals in place to help guide you and your loved ones during your life and after death. The team should include a financial advisor, accountant, and an estate planning and elder law attorney with whom you have had numerous meetings with and who understands your financial and personal goals.
By Michal Lipshitz, Esq.
Michal Lipshitz, Esq. is a Senior Associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.
INDEX NO. 618209/2020
Plaintiff designates SUFFOLK as the place of trial situs of the real property
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 47 TUSCALA STREET, SELDEN, NY 11784
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC SEASONED LOANS STRUCTURED TRANSACTION TRUST, SERIES 2019-1,
Plaintiff, vs.
CLAY R PETRUZZI, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JULIETA C. PETRUZZI
A/K/A JULIETA C. PLOG-PETRUZZI
A/K/A JULIETA PLOG; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF JULIETA C. PETRUZZI
A/K/A JULIETA C. PLOG-PETRUZZI A/K/A JULIETA PLOG, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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; UNKNOWN TRUSTEES OF THE JULIETA C. PETRUZZI LIVING TRUST, DATED
JULY 08, 2003, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC & PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; MR. PETRUZZI,
"JOHN DOE #2" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last eleven names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint,
Defendants.
To the above named Defendants
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of
the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $175,000.00 and interest, recorded on June 28, 2007, in Liber M00021560 at Page 133, of the Public Records of SUFFOLK County, New York., covering premises known as 47 TUSCALA STREET, SELDEN, NY 11784.
The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
SUFFOLK County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.
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 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 (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, ATLANTICA, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. JEREMIAH C. DESMOND, Defendant.
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 20, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 4, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., premises known as 272 Railroad Avenue, Center Moriches, NY 11934. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 792.00, Block 01.00 and Lot 005.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $457,008.23 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #207438/2022.
Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee
Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE CIM TRUST 2016-FRE1, MORTGAGEBACKED NOTES, SERIES 2016-FRE1, Plaintiff, vs. SEAN P. FORD, PATRICIA C. FORD A/K/A PATRICIA FORD, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 25, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on October 30, 2024 at 1:00 p.m., premises known as 59 Silver Street, Patchogue, NY 11772. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Patchogue, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 975.40, Block 06.00 and Lot 024.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $401,039.29 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #619427/2018.
John William Doyle, Esq., Referee
Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff
Supplemental Summons And Notice Of Object Of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Suffolk Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 614712/2023 Bank Of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. As Trustee For Mortgage Assets Management Series I Trust Plaintiff, vs Steven Morocco, SR. As Heir To The Estate Of Robert Morocco Aka Robert F Morocco Who Was Surviving Spouse Of Rose Morocco, Unknown Heirs Of Robert Morocco Aka Robert F Morocco 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 General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In 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, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS, United States Of America On Behalf Of The Secretary Of The Housing And Urban Development, Board Of Manager Of Manorville Vistas Section 2 AKA Country Pointe Woods Condominium, Justine A Massaro AKA Justine Morocco As Heir To The Estate Of Robert Morocco, Robert J Morocco, III As Heir To The Estate Of Robert Morocco "JOHN DOE #1" Through "JOHN DOE #12," The Last Twelve Names Being Fictitious And Unknown To Plaintiff, The Persons Or Parties Intended Being The Tenants, Occupants, Persons Or Corporations, If Any, Having Or Claiming An Interest In Or Lien Upon The Subject Property Described In The Complaint, Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 18 Brookville Way Manorville, Ny 11949 To the Above named Defendant: 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 Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). 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 Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Suffolk. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO
Unknown Heirs of Robert Morocco AKA Robert F Morocco who was the surviving spouse of Rose Morocco Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Susan Betsy Heckman Torres of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twelfth day of September, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, in the City of Riverhead. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated May 14, 2004, executed by Robert Morocco AKA Robert F Morocco (who died on December 13, 2022, a resident of the county of Suffolk, State of New York) and Rose Morocco (who died on July 2, 2020, a resident of the county of Suffolk, State of New York) to secure the sum of $435,478.50. The Mortgage was recorded at Book 20797, Page 698 in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on July 16, 2004. The Adjustable Rate Mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 24, 2009 and recorded on January 9, 2010, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 21905, Page 6. The Adjustable Rate Mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 8, 2023 and recorded on April 14, 2023, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book M00023499, Page 764. The Adjustable Rate Mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 19, 2023 and recorded on November 9, 2023, in the Office of the
Suffolk County Clerk at Book M00023546, Page 657. The property in question is described as follows: 18 Brookville Way, Manorville, NY 11949 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: September 17, 2024 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 82710
State of New York Mortgage Agency, Plaintiff AGAINST
Julie Meola, Lester Corrian, et al, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated August 14, 2024 and entered on August 20, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on November 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM premises known as 11 Malverne Road, Sound
Beach, NY 11789. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 052.00, BLOCK: 11.00, LOT: 048.000, District: 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $345,535.59 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 208807/2022.
The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and Suffolk County Auction Plan in effect at this time.
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against GREGORY A. CROFTS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered July 10, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 13, 2024 at 9:30 AM. Premises known as 40 Oak Street, Centereach, NY 11720. District 0200 Sec 485.00 Block 05.00 Lot 030.002. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Centereach, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $591,181.36 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 622216/2019. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules.
The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.
For sale information, please contact XOME at www. Xome.com or call (844)4009633.
MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, -againstKENNETH C GOGGANS AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E GOGGANS GOGGANS, if living and if dead, the respective heirs-atlaw, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the amended complaint; STEPHANIE GOGGANS AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH E GOGGANS; DISCOVER BANK; STATE OF NEW YORK C/O ANNE MARIE RAGO, ASSISTANT ATTORNEY GENERAL; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; SECURITY PACIFIC REALTY CORP., A NEW YORK CORPORATION, Defendant(s). We are attempting to collect a debt, and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. To the above-named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the amended complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the amended verified complaint is not served with this
supplemental summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the plaintiff's attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this supplemental summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this supplemental summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) or within (60) days after service of this supplemental summons if it is the United States of America; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the amended verified complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this supplemental summons and amended verified 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 supplemental summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing supplemental summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Honorable S. BETSY HECKMAN
TORRES, J.S.C., Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Suffolk, dated the 9TH day of SEPTEMBER,2024 and duly entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on the 18TH day of SEPTEMBER, 2024.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF
SOUGHT This is an action to foreclose a mortgage lien on the premises described herein. The object of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage executed by Kenneth E. Goggans and Agnes L. Goggans, as Mortgagors,
to Fleet National Bank, a Mortgage to secure $120,000.00 and interest, dated May 7, 2005, (the Mortgage), which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on July 8, 2005 in Liber: M00021082, Page: 276 which loan was modified by a Loan Modification Agreement to modify said mortgage to an amount of $220,000.00, dated February 3, 2007, which was recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County on May 10, 2007 in Liber: M00021532, Page: 493 which was then assigned to MCLP ASSET COMPANY, INC by Assignment of Mortgage dated September 28, 2023, which is TO BE RECORDED in the Office of the County Clerk of Suffolk County, covering premises known as 15 COLONIAL PLACE, CENTEREACH, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, STATE OF NY 11720 (DISTRICT: 0200 SECTION: 422.00 BLOCK: 02.00 LOT: 014.000). The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above. SEE SCHEDULE “A” ANNEXED HERETO. Dated: Manhasset, New York OCTOBER 3, 2024
DAVID A. GALLO & ASSOCIATES LLP By: /S/ DAVID A. GALLO, ESQ. Attorneys for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue - 2nd Floor Manhasset, NY 11030 (516) 583-5330
EXHIBIT A
Legal Description
ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, known and designated as Lot No. 29 on a certain map entitled, "Map of Brookville Terrace", filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on July 3, 1968 as Map No. 5125, which said lot is more particularly bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at an extremely southerly end of an arc of a curve which connects the westerly side of Brookville Drive with the northerly side of Colonial Place; running thence along the northerly side of Colonial Place the following three courses and distances: 1) South 83°42'10'' West 85.00 feet; 2) Along an
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
arc of a curve which bears to the right, having a radius of 50 feet, a length of 50.08 feet to a point; 3) North 38°54'20'' west 91.54 feet to a point which intersects with the southwesterly corner of lots 28 and 19; running thence along the division line between lots 28 and 29, north 79°49'00'' east 200.40 feet to the westerly side of Brookville Drive, south 06°17'50'' east 86.68 feet to an extreme northerly end of an arc of curve which connects the said westerly side of Brookville Drive with the northerly side of Colonial Place; running thence along the last mentioned curve, which bears to the right having a radius of 25 feet; a distance of 39.27 feet to the point of place of beginning
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P., Plaintiff, vs. STEVEN CLARK A/K/A STEVEN F. CLARK, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 20, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 20, 2024 at 9:30 a.m., premises known as 229 Southhaven Avenue A/K/A 229 Southaven Avenue, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 840.00, Block 03.00 and Lot 013.004. Approximate amount of judgment is $394,787.97 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #010234/2012. Cash will not be accepted.
Donna England, Esq., Referee
Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road,
Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST
Sharon Klune a/k/a Sharon L. 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 November 14, 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 10th Judicial District.
Jacob Turner, Esq., Referee
LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: September 5, 2024 For sale information, please visit www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLKBROOKHAVEN. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTE FOR THE
CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 200557CB, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-57CB, Plaintiff -against- RYAN FISHER, SAMANTHA FISHER, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 15, 2023 and entered on January 23, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on November 20, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, known and designated as SBL# 586.00-04.00006.000.
*referee does NOT accept cash only bank and certified checks payable to Giuseppe T. Rosini, Esq., as referee*. Said premises known as 576 BOXWOOD DRIVE, SHIRLEY, NY 11967
Approximate amount of lien $422,484.83 plus interest & costs.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 207845/2022.
GIUSEPPE T. ROSINI, ESQ., Referee Pincus Law Group, PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556
MORTGAGED PREMISES: 79 Revilo Avenue, Shirley, New York 11967 f/k/a 79 Revillo Avenue, Shirley, New York 11967
DSBL #: 0200-821.00-03.00062.003
Plaintiff designates SUFFOLK County as the place of trial; venue is based upon the county in which the mortgaged premises is situate.
STATE OF NEW YORK
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, d/b/a
Christiana Trust, not individually but as trustee for Pretium Mortgage Acquisition Trust
Plaintiff, vs. Suffolk County Public Administrator, as Administrator of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; Janine Tappy a/k/a Janine Passarella, as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; Samantha Passarella as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; Victor Passarella as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; G.P., a minor as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; D.P., a minor, as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; L.P., a minor, as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; C.P., a minor, as Heir of the Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella; Unknown Heirs of The Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella and all heirs-atlaw and all the heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid classes of person, if they or any of them be dead, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to plaintiff, except as herein stated; Nassau Educators Federal Credit Union; Hampton Dream Properties, LLC; United States of America o/b/o Internal Revenue Service; and New York State Department of Taxation and Finance; John Doe #1 through #6, and Jane Doe #1 through #6, the last twelve names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants, tenants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein.
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 attorneys for the Plaintiff within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Amended Complaint. 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 PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $144,160.00 and interest, recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk on April 23, 2003 in Liber M00020370, Page 872, covering premises known as 79 Revilo Avenue, Shirley, New York 11967, DSBL #: 0200-821.00-03.00-062.003
Deborah M. Gallo, Esq. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840
New York, New York 10170 Phone: 347.286.7409 Fax: 347-286-7414
Attorneys for Plaintiff, Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, d/b/a Christiana Trust, not individually but as trustee for Pretium Mortgage Acquisition Trust
HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU
The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. The Plaintiff also seeks a deficiency judgment against the Defendants and for any debt secured by said Mortgage which is not satisfied by the proceeds of the sale of said premises. TO the Defendants Unknown Heirs of The Estate of Victor J. Passarella a/k/a Victor Passarella and all heirs-at-law and all the heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees and successors in interest of any of the aforesaid classes of person, if they or any of them be dead, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to plaintiff, except as herein stated, the foregoing Supplemental Summons with Notice is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Betsy Heckman Torres, J.S.C. of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Suffolk, dated and filed September 10, 2024. Dated: October 8, 2024 /s/ Deborah M. Gallo
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT
AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF.
SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE.
The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure.
In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process.
To locate an entity near you, you may call the tollfree helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or visit the Department's website at www.dfs.ny.gov.
FORECLOSURE RESCUE
SCAMS
Be careful of people who approach you with offers to "save" your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 07/11/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 11/15/2024 at 10:30AM, premises known as 19 Hampton Drive, Center Moriches, New York 11934, 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 Center Moriches, In The Town Of Brookhaven, County Of Suffolk And State Of New York.
District 0200 Section 885.00 Block 06.00 Lot 003.000
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $192,965.83 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604096/2021
Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee.
SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Dated: 9/11/24 File Number: 39161 SH
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-25, Plaintiff, Against JAMES P. WALSH; STEPHANIE M. WALSH; ET AL;
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/16/2021, I, the undersigned Referee,
will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 11/15/2024 at 2:00pm, premises known as 27 Pineway Avenue, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town Of Brookhaven, County Of Suffolk And State Of New York.
District 0200 Section 970.00
Block 02.00 Lot 012.000 And 013.000.
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $469,411.27 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604429/2019
Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee.
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Dated: 7/29/24 File Number: 35262 SH
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 6, 2024. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to: 275 GILLETTE AVE, BAYPORT, NY, 11705, USA. Purpose: To engage in any lawful activity.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK ----------------------------X
Index No. 619711/2024
Date Summons Filed: 08/08/2024
MARSHALEE HIBBERT, Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial.
The basis of venue is Plaintiff's residence. Plaintiff, SUMMONS -againstPlaintiff resides at 15 Essen Drive, Amityville, NY 11701. RICARDO BROOKS, Defendant.
----------------------------X
ACTION FOR DIVORCE To the above named Defendant:
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer on Plaintiff's Attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclu¬sive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State of New York, or within thir¬ty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief de¬manded in the complaint.
Dated: August 8, 2024
Jan Gomerman, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff 807 East Jericho Turnpike Huntington Station, NY 11746
631-549-1777
L16072 - 10/16/2024, 10/23/2024&10/30/2024
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 615567/2024 SUNSET EQUITY FUND, LLC Plaintiff, vs JOSEPH LUCK AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROSARIO PELLEGRINO, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF ROSARIO PELLEGRINO 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 GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE
INCLUDED IN 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, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC & PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY JOHN DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 118 Fulton Avenue Mastic, NY 11950 To the Above named Defendant: 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 Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). 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 Attorney
for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Suffolk. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Rosario Pellegrino Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Stephen C. Hackeling of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the TwentySeventh day of September, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, in the City of Riverhead. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Rosario Pellegrino (who died on October 18, 2021, a resident of the county of Suffolk, State of New York) dated the September 11, 2007, to secure the sum of $232,900.00 and recorded at Book 21616, Page 49 in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on October 5, 2007. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 9, 2010 and recorded on April 22, 2013, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 22329, Page 906. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 17, 2013 and recorded on November 6, 2013, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 22419, Page 339. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 17, 2013 and recorded on November 6, 2013, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 22419, Page 340. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 31, 2013 and recorded on November 6, 2013, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 22419, Page 341. The property in question is described as follows: 118 Fulton Avenue, Mastic, NY 11950 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment
may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: October 14, 2024 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 83071
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following meetings of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Manorville Fire District has been moved from Tuesday,
November 12th, 2024, to Monday, November 4th, 2024, Monday, January 20th, 2025, to Tuesday, January 21st, 2025, and Monday, February 17th, 2025, to Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 at 7:00pm (Prevailing Time) at the District Office, 14 Silas Carter Road, Manorville, New York.
Dated: October 16, 2024
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF MANORVILLE FIRE DISTRICT, Towns of Brookhaven and Riverhead, County of Suffolk, New York.
Melanie Austin District Secretary
L16074-10/23/2024
Notice of Public Sale: The following Self Storage unit contents containing household and other goods Will be sold for cash by StorQuest Self Storage 393 Smith road Shirley, NY 11967 (631)-729-6945 To satisfy a lien on 11/12/2024 at approx. 12:00pm at www. storagetreasures.com
L15 Alex Fonteboa 032 George Deabold 075 Joseph Corrigan 143 Matthew Goetschius
240 Taina Ildefonso
248 JACQUELYN COLON
317 Juiliet Lazarus
318 Berlin Roberts
372 Madeline Jones
405 Gregory Jaworski
426 Laurie Greene
491 Monet Worthy
509 Gerard Jamieson
557 Tatiana Pagan
565 Lawson Aprigliano
574 Ygnacio Adames
603 Carmine Notaro
L16075-10/23/2024
LEGAL NOTICE
TO THE TAXPAYERS OF THE MEDFORD FIRE DISTRICT:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the MEDFORD FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, on the 17th day of October 2024; subject to permissive referendum as provided for by the General Municipal Law Section 6 (G).
An extract of the resolution is as follows: By resolution dated the 17th day of October 2024, the Medford Fire District has approved a resolution subject to permissive referendum to withdraw up to $16,000 from its Capitol Land and Improvement Reserve Fund in order to replace carpeting at headquarters. Petitions requesting a referendum must be submitted to the secretary of the Medford
Fire District no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.
This resolution shall not take effect until thirty (30) days unless, in the meanwhile, a permissive referendum as provided by the General Municipal Law is required to be held.
Dated: October 17, 2024 BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS MEDFORD FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN
Attest:
Kathleen Dugan
District Secretary L16076-10/23/2024
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 20054, NOVASTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-4, -against-
EDITH BROWN, AS HEIR
AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS R. BROWN, IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, 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 September 9, 2024, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 20054, NOVASTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-4 is the Plaintiff and EDITH BROWN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS R. BROWN, IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, 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 November 22, 2024 at 12:00PM, premises known as 41 LINCOLN BOULEVARD, EAST MORICHES, NY 11940; and the following tax map identification: 0200-831.00-
03.00-053.000.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED SITUATE LYING AND BEING AT EAST MORICHES TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 618439/2020. Giuseppe T. Rosini, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
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THE BETTOR ANGLE TM
BY TOM BARTON
As the NBA season is about to kick off this week, it can get lost in the shuffle of the sports calendar. In New York especially with the Yankees going to the World Series, the Mets with their deep playoff run, the Islanders and Rangers taking people's attention, college football and more, the Knicks' season could get lost on people.
This Knicks team should make people take notice, though. Not only were the Knicks one of the best teams in the league last season, but they made a headlinegrabbing trade in the off season.
The Knicks ended the year with a 50-32 record and then traded Bojan Bogdanovic and five first-round picks to the Nets
for Mikal Bridges. That wasn't enough for New York as they then dealt star Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo plus a firstround pick to the Timberwolves for Karl-Anthony Towns.
While Towns certainly grabs the headlines, it's not all upside for the big man. He shoots at a remarkable rate, but New York will definitely lose something on the defensive side of the ball. That area was a plus positive for them last season, which got them to the 50 wins.
This year, their wins total is set at 55. A lofty number for any team, and for the Knicks it's a number that hasn't been reached in a very long time. New York should have a very good season,
The Knicks Have Their Eyes On a Title Run
but you're paying for an elevated line because of the over. Overs in the preseason are often juiced up and with the Towns news, and being the Knicks and their fan base this one is about five games higher than it should be. The under looks like a better bet with moving parts trying to find themselves early in the season.
With that said it's not crazy to think that the Knicks could be playing for a championship this year once they do gel. The Knicks are 8 to 1 odds to win it all, and sit in that ranger where they are valued correctly. If you are worried about the Western Conference, you can get them to win the East at more than 4 to 1, and to win the Atlantic nets you +220.
Playoff Bound: WFHS Girls Tennis Team Serves Up Successful Season
ByStefanMychajliw
The William Floyd girls’ varsity tennis team, led by head coach David Pia, had another amazing season and is back in the playoffs for the 22nd consecutive season. The Colonials finished with a 10-2 record in League IV play and a 14-2 record overall, which has earned them a No. 4 seed, a first-round bye, and a second-round home playoff match in the playoff tournament on Tuesday, October 22nd, against the winner of No. 13 Sachem or No. 20 EastportSouth Manor.
“All of the hard work over the summer got us off to a great start this year and has sustained us through the season,” said Coach Pia, the two-time USTA Coach of the Year and William Floyd
Athletic Hall of Famer. Michael Clauberg serves as the assistant varsity tennis coach.
The Colonials overcame adversity along the way, as No. 1 singles player Anabel Van Cott has been injured since the fifth match of the season. In her absence, the singles lineup elevated their play and worked hard to improve throughout the season. The singles lineup right now includes Lydia Van Cott, Khloe DiMaio, Trinity Lyons and Madison Lockwood, who have all been playing well. The Colonials are hoping to have Anabel Van Cott back playing singles for the playoffs.
The doubles team also played a big role in William Floyd’s success, showing continuous signs of improvement while
playing strong tennis. The doubles team includes Gianna Martin, Drew Wiegand, Olivia Phillips, Tatiana Sanchez, Corinne Neidig, Nadia Da Gama Paes, Rylie Wiegand, Brooklyn Barnes, and Renae Kelly.
The Colonials continue to work hard as they prepare for the playoffs.
The team also put forth a
strong showing in the Division Individual Tournament and numerous players received athletic honors for their performance this season, including Lydia Van Cott, Gianna Martin and Drew Wiegand who earned AllCounty honors. Olivia Phillips and Tatiana Sanchez earned All-Division accolades; and Nadia Da Gama Paes, Corinne
Neidig, Rylie Wiegand and Trinity Lyons earned All-League honors.
Additionally, seven team members were recently honored during their senior game, including Renae Kelly, Trinity Lyons, Brooklyn Barnes, Drew Wiegand, Nadia Da Gama Paes, Olivia Phillips and Madison Lockwood.
Stony Brook's QB Throws Six TD Passes
ByTomBarton
Tyler Knopp has set the new Stony Brook football record.
With his sixth touchdown pass of the game, Knopp now has sole possession of the school record for most TD passes thrown in a game.
Knopp's six scores led the Seawolves to another impressive victory this weekend. The Wolves beat Towson 52-24 as double-digit underdogs.
Knoppe finished the day 34 of 40 for 387 yards and no picks. His record-setting TD pass went to Jasiah Williams, who was able to bring in three touchdowns on the day. Jayce Freeman added two as the Stony Brook offense looked as good as we have seen it this season after a bye week.
Star RB Roland Dempster had over 100 yards again, while the Wolves gained over 500 yards of total offense against Towson.
With the win the Wolves improved to 5-2 under their new head coach. They now sit 4th in the CAA. Stony Brook will look to continue its outstanding season this weekend when they host homecoming at
Better Bettor, Wagering Week, The Night Cappers, The Bookmakers, Bet Fellas, RotoMill
The 2024 WFHS Girls Tennis Team
Karl Anthony Towns
Credit: WFHS
Credit: @KarlTowns | X
LaValle Stadium.
Tyler Knopp
SPORTS World Series Preview
ByTomBarton
The World Series is set and the New York Yankees will face off against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Major League baseball could not be happier, and you can almost hear the collective smile from advertisers and television executives around the world. And, yes, this time it's the world because of the Ohtani factor.
It's not only the best player on the planet in Aaron Judge against the man chasing him for that title in Ohtani, but it's also the two most storied franchises in baseball history going head to head. Oh yeah, there is also the aspect of the two most populated cities and the largest bankrolls in baseball to take into consideration.
The Yankees and Dodgers will meet for the 12th time in the World Series. They met in 1941, 1947, 1949, 1952, 1953, 1955, 1956, 1963, 1977, 1978, 1981 and 2024. The Yankees own an 8-3 lead in those previous 11 matchups, but the Dodgers did take the last head to head in 1981. For New York has been a grueling 15 seasons of unmet goals and a frustrated fanbase. For the Dodgers there is much of the same. Both of these teams feel that they deserve to have more rings than they do, and that entitlement is not because of the brash fans, but because of the front office moves that were made, only to fall short. The recent bumby history for both franchises can be
erased by taking home the trophy this season.
Let's look at the tale of the tape where we begin with starting pitching. In an era where it feels like the dominant ace is being phased out, Gerritt Cole is one of a handful that still take the mound with that "old school" mentality. Cole is a bulldog in every sense of the word. He missed parts of the season because of an injury, but when he is in there he is an innings eater who can look like a Cy Young winner any night. This postseason he pitched in three games and allowed 6 runs. Behind Cole is Carlos Rodon who has had an up-anddown Yankees career and now an up-and-down playoffs. He allowed 4 runs in his first start against KC in just 3 innings and then allowed just 3 runs in the next two starts against Cleveland. Combine those two with Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt and the Yankees get the check mark in starting pitching.
The Dodgers counter that with Yamamoto, who is massively talented but also has missed most of the year and from batter to batter has shown major inconsistencies. He allowed 7 runs in three starts, but lasted just 12 innings. Walker Buehler has looked awful at times, see his San Diego start where he allowed 6 runs, and briefly like his old self, like when he held the Mets scoreless through 3. Jack Flaherty
has mostly looked awful allowing 12 runs in 15 innings spanning three starts. Then, the Dodgers used bullpens for the other games and it was effective. The Yankees have a distinct advantage in starters.
The bullpen that I mentioned was very good for LA at times, but also very used. This team used bullpen games for most of the last two series and hoping that success continues is just a hope for the Dodgers that flies in the face of baseball knowledge.
The Yankees also have some tired arms in the bullpen, but they were just as effective as the Dodgers. This is a wash, with a slight lean to the Yankees because of their determined roles.
Offensively it's almost all New York. From Judge to Soto to Stanton and more. Gleybar and Volpe have had good series and it's not just the mashers as this team has had timely hits all postseason. The Yankees bench has even been impressive,
and while the images of the Soto homer run will live in Yankees fans' heads forever and the Stanton postseason run will be a topic for the ages, this team can hit anywhere in the lineup. The Dodgers have some mashers of their own, but they also have some holes in the lineup. Freddie Freeman actually is so hurt that he missed last game, and it has been a nagging problem for a while now. Sure, Ohtani and Betts are intimidating, but Hernandez, Will Smith and the bench play has been less than inspiring. The one thing that LA does better than the Yanks is run the bases, and that could be an issue in a tight series. With that said the check mark again goes to New York.
That leaves defense where both teams have had their issues this year and postseason. We can give the slight mod to LA in the interest of fairness and that ugly play by Rizzo, but overall both defenses could be a problem. The same can be said for the manager, where both fan bases see the issues but also see the positives.
Outside of home field advantage, I don't see a real check mark going the Dodgers way and one can argue the Yankees are actually better on the road. The Yankees come in as an underdog to win the World Series, but if you use the tale of the tape New York will be singing a championship song.
SPORTS Dincer Sets a New School Record
ByTomBarton
The Mount Sinai record for the most goals in one season now belongs to Arda Dincer.
Dincer set the record this week when he notched his 21st goal. The 5'9", 140 pound forward now ranks fifth in Suffolk county for goals scored this season.
Dincer also has scored multiple goals in six different games this year and has 22 points on the season.
The Mustangs are 8-6 on the year and 4-4 in league play. They have won four of their last six games as they are making a lateseason push with two games left to play.
The Deal is First Place
ByTomBarton
Longwood High School senior
Alex Deal has won the Suffolk Officials Invitational Varsity Race.
Longwood Runs to 5-1
ByTomBarton
The Longwood Lions leaned on their running game in the win over Lindenhurt on Saturday.
The Lions walked away the winner in an offensive explosion game 49-28.
Davien Benjamin-Sheffey led the way rushing for just under 100 yards. He was able to get into the end zone twice in the first quarter and set the tone of the day for the Lions. Longwood was going to run the ball and run it over and
over again. Besides BenjaminSheffey, Murrell had just under 90 yards on the ground and Sarwari added almost 80.
While this game was all about the explosive offense and great running game for the Lions, the game was sealed as a win when Mike Warren intercepted a pass late in the game.
With the win Longwood moves to an impressive 5-1 on the season.
Longwood Supports Morgan's Message
ByTomBarton
The Longwood junior varsity girls' soccer team dedicated a game last week to Morgan's Message, an organization committed to raising awareness about the mental health crisis and eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
The team beat PatchogueMedford 2-0 to continue their streak of no losses in league play. Morgan's message is inspired by Morgan Rodgers, who was a beloved daughter, sister, friend and teammate.
Morgan played Division I Women’s Lacrosse for Duke University. During her senior year, Morgan began to experience high levels of anxiety and had a devastating knee injury. She spent the next 12 months determined to return to the field, undergoing surgery and dedicating herself to an intensive rehabilitation program.
As a result, Morgan died by suicide July 11, 2019, at the age of 22.
Although her life was cut way too short, Morgan’s legacy of unconditional love remains. Her energy empowers those she has left behind to transform devastation into action.
Morgan's message is now in place to elevate her story and provide a platform where others feel safe
to share their own, be a catalyst for change within our mental healthcare systems and foster a community for which tomorrow always exists. Morgan’s Message is clear: as an athlete, there is no shame in seeking physical healthcare—the same should be true for mental health care. In order to close the gap, we must eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health together.
Longwood Honors A Community Icon
Deal has described himself as a hard worker and stresses that he builds friendships and his great mentality is a driving force.
The 5'11" 145-pounder finished with a time of 17:25. Deal primarily runs the 1600 meter and last season led his team to a conference championship run. He also finished in 3rd place last season in the sectionals.
ByTomBarton
The Longwood Board of Education has presented the Carl Verdi Community Pride Award to Tom Bove, President of the Longwood Youth Sports Association (LYSA).
Mr. Bove has been volunteering in the community for decades. The board noted that his tireless advocacy for athletics and continuous efforts to build strong connections between the district and the community embody the very heart of Longwood’s pride, spirit, and heart.
In addition, LYSA was honored with the inaugural School Community Partnership Award, celebrating their unwavering dedication to our students and families. With over 3,000 families involved across 10 sports,
LYSA is one of the largest sports organizations on Long Island— fostering a lifelong love of sports
opening doors to countless opportunities for our students.
Credit: Longwood Central School District | Facebook Tom Bove
Longwood Supports Morgan's Message
Credit: Longwood Central School District | Facebook
Arda Dincer
Credit: ardadincer14 | Instagram
Credit: Longwood Central School District | Facebook Alex Deal
River's Prodell sixth grade students had the opportunity to work with The Bionic Project.
The Bionic Project focuses on the theme “we are all connected; community is essential.” The students watched an assembly on topics such as inclusive behavior and language, accessible school and stadium design, media narratives around disabilities and assistive technology.
The highlight of the day came when students met with adaptive sports clinics led by the four instructors. Two of the instructors are athletes with physical disabilities. The athletes were impressive and students are now better able to understand the challenges that students with physical disabilities face, particularly when it comes to playing a sport or participating in
ByTomBarton
Entering this week there were only six teams in Suffolk county that were unbeaten and two of those resided in Division 4. They went head to head on Friday night to see who would be left standing.
Bayport-Blue Point is the only remaining Division 4 team after they beat Babylon 12-7 in a defensive gem of a game. The Phantoms watched Babylon get a quick 7-0 lead in the first quarter and then clamped down on defense and allowed absolutely nothing after that.
The defense not only shut
physical activities that may seem easy or come naturally to others. However, they were also able to see the power of resilience and hard work.
“It was evident that students were truly inspired by the instructors, who demonstrated their athletic talent, drive and ongoing
determination,” Assistant Principal Lauren Biscardi said. “The Bionic Project Inc. truly succeeded in fostering a sense of inclusivity and acceptance while working with our students throughout the day. We look forward to having them return each year to continue motivating and inspiring students and staff here at Prodell.”
down the Panthers, but decided to do the scoring work themselves. They returned a fumble 6 yards for the first touchdown of the day and after a missed PAT went into the halftime locker room down 7-6.
They entered the 4th quarter down by the same score and stopped the Phantoms numerous times on 4th down in the last frame. A 1-yard scamper gave them the late lead 12-7 and an interception late in the game sealed the win.
The Phantoms' defense has been nothing short of spectacular this season. They have not allowed a single team to score more than 7 points all year and have allowed just 4 touchdowns in 6 games.
With the win Bayport-Blue Point now moves to 6-0 on the season with two games remaining. They will take on Port Jefferson this weekend and end off against Mount Sinai the following week.
Coach Sioss Gets #300
ByTomBarton
Ward Melville's varsity field hockey coach Shannon Sioss earned her 300th career win this week.
Sioss graduated from Ward Melville in 2009 and was inducted into the Three Village Central School District Hall of Fame in 2017.
The field hockey team finished
The Commack Brothers Connect for 3 TDs
ByTomBarton
Commack defeated Central Islip 41-0 on Saturday to move to 3-3 on the season, but the story wasn't only the lopsided score but the brothers' combination that was a focal point of the day.
Lincoln Riggs completed just five passes on the day, but he was wildly efficient throwing three touchdown passes. Those three touchdowns went to his brother Andrew Riggs.
Andrew has been putting up video game-like stats this season. He has amassed double-digit touchdowns, over 500 yards receiving, and has added almost 50 tackles on defense.
Speaking of defense, Brady Curry not only rushed for over 100 yards, two touchdowns, but he also added eight tackles and a fumble recovery.
last season with a 13-3 record, going 12-1 in league play. They also ended the year ranked 16th in the state, third in the section and 157th in the nation.
This year's team is on a similar path with a 12-1 overall record to go along with being 11-1 in their division. Defense has been the calling card this year with 9 of their 12 wins coming in dominating shutout fashion.
Credit: Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Coach Sioss and her team
Phantoms Football
Credit: @coachZafonte | X
Credit: Shoreham-Wading River Central School District | Facebook
