The South Shore Press 12/04/24

Robert Chartuk

From the

BY STEFAN MYCHAJLIW

In full disclosure, former Congressman and soon-to-be EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and yours truly aren’t drinking buddies who hang out together while plotting how to Make America Great Again starting January 20th, 2025.

I served as the Erie County comptroller (same position as John Kennedy in Suffolk County) when Zeldin ran against Kathy Hochul for governor in 2022.

In that capacity as the highestelected Republican in county government, I worked as a surrogate to help the William Floyd graduate become the Governor of the Empire State.

On one occasion I brought his campaign team to my

President-elect Trump's Cabinet Choices: A Focus on Transparency and Leadership

President-elect Donald Trump is assembling his administration, and his latest nominations highlight a deliberate effort to bring in experienced leaders, including some unconventional choices. Among these appointments, figures like Kash Patel, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and other notable New Yorkers are set to play pivotal roles, reflecting a strong focus on leadership and transparency.

Kash Patel: A Champion for Transparency

Kash Patel, hailing from Garden City, has been tapped to serve as the Director of the FBI at a critical juncture for the agency. The FBI has faced growing skepticism and credibility challenges, making Patel’s nomination a defining

Ukrainian Cultural Center, and I mostly communicated with his Communications Director at the time. I helped with fundraisers and brought staff and volunteers to his events every time he was in town.

With that out of the way, it is beyond the pale of despicable and disgraceful that left-wing lunatics sent bomb threats to Zeldin’s home and the residences of many top Trump picks for his incoming administration.

When President Biden was declared the winner of the 2020 presidential election over President Trump, not one thought crossed my mind (or most rational Republicans) to threaten the lives of Biden’s cabinet. On the smaller insanity scale, I didn’t shave my

Domestic Terrorism Hits Zeldin Home

head, pack up my family and move to Canada, or leave Twitter in protest to join another social media outlet that no one visits.

While my beloved wife Ashley would assuredly disagree on some occasions, I’m not insane to the point where I broke the law,

burned down buildings, attacked police, or delivered bomb threats to President Biden’s incoming Cabinet.

Quite the opposite: I publicly congratulated my fellow Catholic and Syracuse University graduate well, and went on with my life. Sure, I was bummed that at that time President Trump wasn’t going to serve a second consecutive time. Life went on. The earth continued to spin on its axis.

President Biden’s disastrous four years as Commander in Chief did great damage to our Republic, but the universe simply corrected itself, and God willing Donald J. Trump will become the second person in the history of our great nation to serve two, non-consecutive terms.

Continued on page 3

President Trump's Team: Avengers Assemble!

moment.

Patel has built his reputation as an advocate for government transparency, frequently criticizing what he views as political bias and the weaponization of federal agencies against dissenting viewpoints. His mission, as he describes it, is to "pull back the curtain on the underbelly of the

beast." Patel’s push to release longclassified documents, including JFK assassination files and 9/11 records, has made him a prominent figure in efforts to expose the hidden and to many questionable workings of government institutions.

His nomination signals a commitment by the Trump administration to address these

challenges head-on and restore public trust in the FBI, positioning transparency as a cornerstone of the administration’s agenda.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: A Bold Choice for HHS

President-elect Trump has selected Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy, a longtime advocate for public health reform and an outspoken critic of corporate influence in the pharmaceutical industry, brings a unique perspective to the role.

Kennedy’s appointment underscores the administration’s focus on reforming health policies and restoring public trust in federal agencies like the CDC and FDA. Known for his criticism of regulatory capture, Kennedy has called for greater accountability and transparency in government health operations. His leadership at HHS could signal a dramatic shift in how

the department addresses pressing health concerns, from vaccine safety to pharmaceutical pricing. By choosing Kennedy, Trump has made it clear that his administration will not shy away from controversial appointments if they align with his broader goals of government reform and transparency.

New York’s Prominent Role in Leadership

New York is well-represented in Trump’s incoming administration, with several influential figures from the Empire State taking on key roles. Former Congressman Lee Zeldin, from Long Island’s South Shore, has been nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Upstate New York’s Rep. Elise Stefanik has been tapped as Ambassador to the United Nations. Additionally, Former ICE director Tom Homan has been selected as the new Border Czar, overseeing immigration policies.

Credit: Grok/X

Photo Illustration: President Trump at the White House

BY GEORGE SANTOS

SANTOS UNCENSORED

Trump Derangement Syndrome is a mental illness

Credit: Grok/X

ByRobertChartuk

Victory for Red Light Robin Hood

He took note of the flowers and crosses going up at intersections. People were dying. He talked about it with his priest and started to research the matter. He discovered that the red light cameras put up by the county were deadly and merely a scam designed to extract money from Suffolk motorists.

Stephen Ruth, the Red Light Robin Hood as he would come to be known, was prepared to sacrifice his freedom and set about on a decades-long mission to get rid of the cameras. His quest was finally rewarded: the state legislation permitting the dreaded cameras expires at the end of the year, and no state senator had the will to back its renewal.

The red light hero was feted Saturday night at Popei’s Clam Bar in Coram. He told of his outrage over the county cash grab and what he did to bring about the program’s demise. The Port Jefferson resident started knocking the cameras down. “They were illegal and unconstitutional; they had to go,” he explained. He videotaped his efforts, and within a week, he had a million-plus views on YouTube. The Red Light Robin Hood was born. What he found out troubled him

deeply. Yellow light warning times were cut to mere seconds to catch more drivers. The engineers who designed the system never signed off on the plans. Instead of the cameras making Suffolk’s roads safer, like the politicians claimed, they were making them more deadly. When he asked for the camera video of a young boy who was killed at a red light intersection in Miller Place, he was denied.

Ruth appealed to the Suffolk Legislature to dismantle the program, going as far as attempting a citizen’s arrest of the lawmakers for crimes against humanity. He ran for the legislature himself, even the state senate, to keep the issue at the forefront. He joined forces with the attorney of the boy who was killed. They realized the cameras were the cause of death; it was blood money. They weren’t going to let the matter rest.

With pressure building, spurred by the discovery of an email directing county employees to shorten the length of the yellow lights, the legislature commissioned a $300,000 study of the program’s safety. “They hired the same firm that designed the system to begin with,” Ruth pointed out. “Of course, it came back that the cameras were safe. And again, no one would put their name to the study.”

Join The Chamber of Commerce of The Mastics and Shirley for the Annual Christmas Parade

ByDeborahWilliams

The Red Light Robin Hood expected to be arrested, but the cops didn’t come. He became more aggressive, cutting the wires of dozens of cameras, daring them to get him and elevate his celebrity. Finally, the detectives came; they were polite, no handcuffs. Down at the 6th Precinct, the officers were on his side. “They knew how dangerous these things were,” Ruth said. “I was lying in my cell, and l had a conversation with God. Was l doing the right thing? When the lieutenant came in and thanked me for what l was doing, this was my sign from God. At that moment, l knew l was in the right.”

District Attorney Tim Sini threatened him with hard time upstate if he didn’t keep his mouth shut. The administration of Gov. Andrew Cuomo even revoked his real estate license for a couple of weeks before then-Congressman Lee Zeldin intervened. That only motivated the vigilante to speak out even more, a voice that laughed with derision when it was revealed that after he failed in his reelection, Sini went to work for the company that manages the camera program. Their deal was a swindle as well, with the county getting only half of the proceeds and the vendor getting the rest.

The scheme was a taxpayer ripoff from word one, put in place by County Executive Steve Levy in 2010 when Suffolk’s finances were bleak. The politicians even tacked on a $30 service charge to milk even more cash from the electorate; a fee struck down in court because it was outside of the authorizing legislation. The despised program was kept by Levy’s successor, Steve Bellone, but then stood on shaky ground when Ed Romaine took the county reins on January 1. Fred

Thiele, who’s retiring at the end of the month, sponsored the bill in the state assembly to re-up the program for another five years. But there were no takers on the senate side, and the Romaine administration didn’t push it. “We made it clear to the senators that whoever sponsored the bill to renew would be exposed to a lot of annoyed voters,” Ruth pointed out. He had petitions with thousands of aggrieved signatories to back him up.

The lawyer for the little boy killed, David Raimondo, called into the Robin Hood’s victory celebration. He was the lawyer who successfully sued both Nassau and Suffolk counties to eliminate the additional ticket fees. Nassau had helped itself to $100 on top of the $50 ticket, while Suffolk wasn’t as greedy with its surcharge. Still, the two counties snatched up millions from residents of the “Vampire State,” who already pay the highest taxes and fees in the nation.

It was Raimondo who represented Ruth, no charge, along with attorney Billy Keahon, and eventually won his acquittal from a raft of felony charges. The Avenger went through five different judges during his case, all recusing themselves because they had also fallen prey to the cameras.

Next on Ruth’s agenda: getting rid of Suffolk’s speeding and school bus cameras. “In this country, you have the right to face your accuser,” Ruth exclaimed. “It’s unconstitutional when your accuser is a camera.” County Legislator Rob Trotta agrees. He stopped by Ruth’s victory party all the way from Huntington. While he said legislation to forever ban red light cameras isn’t practical, he does support ending the school bus tickets, at least for double-lane highways where motorists in the far lane were getting summonses. That program is currently in limbo due to legal challenges.

Domestic Terrorism Hits Zeldin...

Continued from page 2

Republicans and Conservatives also worked hard from a political perspective winning the House, Senate, and White House in a GOP trifecta that will trigger one of the greatest fiscal and cultural comebacks in American history.

We didn’t protest, scream bloody murder on Twitter, or call in bomb threats to our so-called political rivals. On our side of the aisle, we got to work. On the communications side, we clearly made the case for why President Trump deserved another term in the White House, and why we needed to stop four more years of Biden-Harris policies.

left act peacefully and accept the loss with class and grace?

Absolutely not. Their malignant madness will not end for the next 12 years. Trump Derangement Syndrome is truly a mental illness. “They” already tried killing President Trump twice. Now they are threatening the homes and families of Cabinet appointments like Long Island’s own Lee Zeldin.

This is appalling on so many levels, since your home is supposed to be a place where your family is supposed to be the most safe, secure, and at peace. Zeldin assuredly did not sign up for “this”; neither did his supportive wife and loving kids.

As the saying goes, “no good deed goes unpunished.”

The silence from the left is deafening on these cowardly acts of domestic terrorism. Every level of law enforcement should stop at nothing to put these weak criminals behind bars for years to come.

Until then, all we on the right can do is continue to put service over self, work hard, and do everything we can do to implement President Trump’s America First agenda: shut down the border, crack down on cartels, reduce inflation, rightsize gas and grocery prices, bring peace to the world, and stop relying on bad actors for oil.

The parade begins at noon at the

and ends at the Mastic Fire Department. After the parade, from 6 to 7 p.m., there will be a float and vehicle light showcase with music, hot cocoa, and Christmas festivities. Swing on by to watch the parade with your family and neighbors.

On the ground, the Grand Old Party worked even harder on its “Get Out The Vote” ground game, sweeping swing states and many more in early voting and the final tally on Election Day.

Did we right leaning, America First patriots expect the radical

All he “did” was defend freedom at home and around the world in the Army, serve the Empire State in the Senate, serve our nation at the federal level in Congress, and now make America energy independent as the next EPA administrator.

Sadly and predictably, the radical left will continue threatening President Trump and his top allies for the horrific offense of improving the lives of all Americans.

God bless America.

Join The Chamber of Commerce of The Mastics and Shirley for the 53rd Annual Christmas Parade

Kohl's Shopping Center

Credit: Chamber of Commerce of The Mastics and Shirley

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Red Light Camera Robin Hood Stephen Ruth looks over a map of Suffolk with County Legislator Rob Trotta, an opponent of the camera program.

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Good Riddance: Red Light Cameras in Suffolk are No More

Usually, the Monday after Thanksgiving is understandably filled with nothing but languish.

However, allow this past Monday, Dec. 2nd, to forever serve as a whopping exception, as local commuters were pleased to learn that the dreaded red light cameras had been outlawed countywide.

Senator Anthony Palumbo took to Facebook to initially declare the victory on Nov. 30th; he continued alongside his esteemed colleagues in local government at approximately 11:30 p.m. — and afterward for those who could not attend.

“What began as a new technology to improve traffic safety had morphed into cash grab off the backs of hardworking Suffolk families," said Palumbo. "The cameras have also been linked to an increase in accidents at several intersections. I am proud to stand with our

Suffolk County Republican Leadership who kept their promise to end this program.”

“Their program was flawed from the beginning,” Legislator Piccirillo said with pride and vindication at the corner of Patchogue-Holbrook Rd and Furrows Rd in Holbrook on Monday.

“It wasn’t about saving lives," he adds. "It was about saving budgets.”

Reportedly, the red light camera program made close to $290 million from fines and fees for the county over the past 14 years.

“No more taxation by citation in Suffolk County,” said Legislator Rob Trotta (Fort Salonga).

Holbrook’s recently re-elected Assemblyman Doug Smith was equally as thrilled to be in attendance on behalf of his constituents plagued by red light camera enforcement on that

very road.

“It was great to join a press conference led by Legislator Anthony Piccirillo officially marking the END of the Red Light Camera program in Suffolk County,” Smith writes. “What started as an experiment to make our roads safer, ended 14 years later as a cash grab (with cameras only located in workingclass communities) that can be directly linked to an increase in accidents at many intersections.”

Just days ago, a New York State Appellate Division Court ruled the admin fees tacked onto the red light camera tickets issued in both Nassau and Suffolk County were illegal.

Nassau County says its 2025 budget will not be impacted by this decision.

Meanwhile in Suffolk, hundreds of millions can be owed to drivers attached to pending lawsuits.

“People shouldn’t be extorted by their own government,” Angelo Veltri, president of Save Long Island, told The South Shore Press senior reporter Robert Chartuk in his "Man on the Street" series.

“They should be there to protect us," he adds, "not create a nanny state to collect our money. It's interesting how these cameras were mostly in lowincome areas.”

John S. Hobart Elementary School Dedicates Plaque to Esteemed Artist Al Plastino

BySouthShorePressStaff

In the lobby of the elementary school that bears his name, sits a portrait of former U.S. Senator John Sloss Hobart painted by famed artist and former resident Al Plastino, who had what many would call a “super” career as an artist.

For many years, Plastino worked as an artist for DC Comics, earning recognition as one of the most prolific artists of Superman. Although he was most famous for drawing the Man of Steel, Plastino also illustrated many DC Comics superheroes and supervillains throughout his career, even being credited as a co-creator of the Supergirl, Brainiac and Parasite characters as well as the teenage team Legion of Superheroes.

The revelation that the painter behind the John S. Hobart portrait also had such an illustrious career

as a comic artist meant a lot to the John S. Hobart and William Floyd school community.

Mr. Plastino is also the artist behind the renowned "Superman's Mission for President Kennedy" encouraging children to get physically fit. The 10-page piece, in production when John F. Kennedy was assassinated in November 1963, was published eight months later as a tribute to President Kennedy. DC Comics has since acquired the original drawings and donated them to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, which now houses them as part of their permanent collection.

“Our students connect to these superheroes, they draw them all the time, they grew up with them and their message of hope and resilience,” said Theresa Bianco, chairperson of fine arts, William Floyd School District. “Now when

they pass that painting, they will stop and look a little longer and hopefully have the same sense of pride that I did knowing that someone so talented lived right in our community.”

To honor his importance as an artist and his donation of an original piece to John S. Hobart Elementary School, Mrs. Bianco worked to arrange a plaque dedication in his honor. The plaque now rests just below his painting of John S. Hobart in the lobby of the elementary school.

Several members of the Plastino family were recently invited to Hobart for a special assembly in which the plaque would be officially unveiled. Attending the ceremony were Mr. Plastino’s daughters Arlene Podlesny and Janice Iapaolo, a retired Tangier Smith Elementary

School teacher, and Mr. Plastino’s granddaughter Melanie Podlesny, a 2024 William Floyd alumna.

This plaque dedication came to fruition thanks to a project that Melanie Podlesny presented in Mr. Brian Sckipp’s high school English class highlighting the accomplishments of her grandfather. Mr. Sckipp, who is an avid Superman fan, then brought this to the attention of Mrs. Bianco, and the idea to honor this artistic legend was born.

Mr. Sckipp, along with teacher Paul Helbig, was also instrumental in introducing the “Heroes, Myths and Legends” class to William Floyd High School, a half-year elective for seniors designed to introduce, explore and examine the origins, universality and enduring significance of heroic myths and

legends that have helped humans make sense of their world and shape their societies. So recognizing the accomplishments of Mr. Plastino was a natural fit and a long overdue honor for the school community.

As part of the dedication ceremony, Melanie gave students from Hobart and William Floyd High School a presentation on her grandfather’s work. She guided the students through his extensive career illustrating the “Ferdinand,” “Nancy” and worldfamous “Peanuts” comic strips, comic book superheroes, local Long Island scenery, and even several elected officials including Senator Hobart. Afterwards, the students asked questions and viewed some of Plastino’s original artwork that was on display throughout the room.

Leg. Anthony Piccirillo speaking in support of the countywide red light camera removal decision alongside: (L to R): Deputy Presiding Officer Steve Flotteron, Leg. Rob Trotta, Leg. Chad Lennon, Leg. Leslie Kennedy, Leg. Trish Bergin, Sen. Anthony Palumbo, Assemblyman Doug Smith, Leg. Stephanie Bontempi, Leg. Nick Caracappa, and Leg. Dominic Thorne.

Credit: Assembylman Doug Smith's office

WFHS students, WFSD Fine Arts Chairperson Theresa Bianco, John S. Hobart Elementary School Principal James Westcott and Assistant Principal Thomas Virgona, and the Plastino family

WFSD Fine Arts Chairperson Theresa Bianco (left) with (second from left to right) daughter Arlene Podlesny, granddaughter Melanie Podlesny, and daughter Janice Iapaolo

Credit: WFSD

Credit: WFSD

ByRobertChartuk

Panico Throws Gauntlet on Long Island's Looming Garbage Crisis

“The time for talk is coming to an end. It’s time for solutions and the leaders of New York State to get their heads out of the clouds, their feet on the ground, and come to solutions based in reality,” exclaimed Brookhaven’s Dan Panico, the supervisor of Suffolk’s largest town, in addressing the island’s looming garbage crisis.

The town’s massive landfill in Yaphank is running out of room and is slated for closure in 2027. The loss of this waste management hub will have ripple effects across the region, impacts that will lead to increased costs to taxpayers. The big question: How much?

“The motto of this state is Excelsior, which is Latin for ‘Ever Upward,’ which is quite appropriate for New York, a state that has historically distinguished itself as a leader in this nation,” Panico stated. “I say historically because right now, we are not leading. In fact, there is an appreciable lack of leadership when it comes to realistic waste management and energy policies, which many do not realize are tied together on Long Island.”

Panico referenced a recent $250,000 state grant to Stony Brook University to study the problem. “When I saw the headline, I could have told you exactly what was written without reading it — the same discussion about reducing waste and a looming ‘crisis’ without addressing issues in the context of what I would refer to as reality,” he said.

Panico warned that Long Island’s geography “cannot be discounted or forgotten in terms of solutions to this issue.” Second, he noted, “Recyclable materials

are commodities. We all should recycle and reuse as much as possible and should expand recycling, but commodities have value when there is a market for them. If there is no market, then recycling doesn’t work very well.”

Third, and most important in terms of municipal solid waste, is the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) extending the power purchase agreements for waste to energy facilities, according to Panico, who took the reins of Brookhaven government nearly year ago after 13 years as a councilman.

“As I go around this town, speaking at a variety of community groups, chambers of commerce, and civic organizations, it’s surprising to know how many people don’t realize that all the waste dragged out twice a week to the curb in their garbage cans does not go into the landfill,” Panico pointed

out. “All of it goes to a waste-toenergy facility where it is burned to create power, while the volume is substantially reduced. Those waste-to-energy facilities have power purchase agreements that expire in 2027.”

If LIPA, which he characterizes as an entity controlled by the state, does not extend the purchase agreements, “they will be singularly responsible for the cataclysmic effect it will have on our region in terms of dramatic tax increases and public health. There is no other way to say it, and municipal governments on this island need some certainty from our state to plan accordingly, and 2027 is around the corner.”

According to the supervisor, the primary reason why the power purchase agreements are not being addressed is the “financially and fundamentally unrealistic” goals of the Climate Leadership and Community

President Trump's Team...

Continued from page 2

There is even speculation that Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman may leave his position to join the administration. With so many high-profile leaders from New York stepping into critical roles, the state stands to benefit significantly. For years, many New Yorkers have felt their concerns were overlooked, but this lineup offers hope that the state will receive renewed attention and support.

A Vision for Change

The nominations of Patel, Kennedy, and other prominent leaders reflect Trump’s broader vision for his second term. His administration has laid out ambitious goals,

including delivering truth, transparency, economic prosperity, and even striving for world peace. While these aspirations may seem lofty, they resonate with many Americans who are eager for meaningful reform.

The key to achieving these objectives is the Senate’s confirmation of Trump’s nominees. Leaders like Patel and Kennedy represent significant departures from conventional appointments, emphasizing a willingness to challenge the status quo in pursuit of progress and recapture of public trust.

A Turning Point for New York and the Nation

New York’s prominent role in the Trump administration

Protection Act (CLCPA) passed by the Democrats in 2019. “I say that as a person who leads a town that works daily to plan for and address climate change as well as lead this island in terms of alternative energy with aspirational goals grounded in pragmatism and reality,” Panico stressed.

The CLCPA mandates the elimination of fossil fuels and the conversion of the state to allelectric by 2040, an act that will prohibit the waste-to-energy facilities that currently handle Long Island’s waste. Recent studies by Cornell University and the New York Independent System Operator concluded that the CLCPA’s dictates are completely unworkable and will lead to massive blackouts.

Stony Brook will use the state money to conduct a study of the trash and recycling programs of municipalities such as Brookhaven through its Waste Reduction and Management Institute. They have hired environmental attorney Michael White to spearhead the effort, which is expected to investigate how towns and villages can handle household garbage, construction, and demolition debris once Brookhaven’s landfill closes.

“We must not allow idealism to triumph over reality with disregard for the limitations we have when it comes to finances, technology, geography, and the marketplace,” Panico concluded. “Pragmatic idealism should be the goal of our state government when it comes to our policies on waste management and energy, but in order to achieve that goal, our leaders must quickly get their heads out of the clouds and feet on the ground.”

marks a potential turning point for the state, which has struggled with economic and social challenges in recent years. With experienced and reform-minded leaders taking on national roles, there is renewed optimism that the state’s needs will finally be addressed.

Similarly, Kennedy’s leadership at HHS could reshape the nation’s approach to public health, focusing on accountability and public trust. Patel’s tenure at the FBI may bring long-sought transparency to an agency under intense scrutiny. While Rep. Stefanik puts the UN in check in midtown Manhattan.

A Path Forward

The road ahead will

undoubtedly be challenging, as these leaders face the dual task of enacting bold reforms while navigating a divided political landscape. However, the administration’s focus on transparency, accountability, and experienced leadership provides hope for both New York and the nation.

As Patel, Kennedy, and their colleagues take on their roles, Americans will be watching closely, too, as this administration delivers on its promises of transformative change. With a mix of innovative appointments and a renewed commitment to action, the Trump administration’s second term will prove to be a pivotal moment in U.S. history.

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The Brookhaven Town Landfill from space.

Credit: Google Earth

ByRobertChartuk

Tierney Cracks Down on Retail Theft

Anyone with sticky fingers this holiday season be forewarned: the District Attorney’s Retail Protection Partnership is cracking down on shoplifting in a big way.

The game-changing effort has dealt a crushing blow to recidivist shoplifters, leading to lengthy sentences, according to Suffolk DA Ray Tierney. “When criminals target our local businesses, they are not just stealing merchandise,” Tierney said. “They are threatening jobs, driving up costs for honest consumers, and destabilizing neighborhoods that depend on these stores. Our message is clear: retail theft in Suffolk County will earn you jail time, not a revolving door.”

Following the elimination of cash bail by the state’s Democrat legislators and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, retail crime had become a career path, sometimes a family affair. Incidents of shoplifting, smash-and-grab crimes, and people just helping themselves have skyrocketed. The cost of government-approved thievery, according to the National Retail

Federation, is in the billions.

Faced with the lax bail system, Tierney partnered with store owners and created innovative ways to put perps behind bars. In just the past year, the RPP has grown to include many of the largest retailers in Suffolk County, including Target, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Ulta, Marshalls, Stop and Shop, Walgreens, Macy’s, CVS, TJX, and Burlington, Tierney reported.

The law enforcement members of the Partnership include Assistant District Attorneys, District Attorney Detective Investigators, members of each of the Suffolk County Police Department’s seven police precincts, and members of the Suffolk County Police Department’s District Attorney’s Squad.

The prosecutors implemented a strategy of “aggregation,” allowing for the value of the products stolen in numerous misdemeanor thefts to be added together to result in a felony charge. For example, one defendant was charged with 10 separate counts of Petit Larceny, a misdemeanor, for stealing from the same Walmart store in Yaphank between February 2024 and April

2024. Once the RPP identified the defendant as the perpetrator in all 10 incidents, prosecutors aggregated the incidents into one count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony, for which he now stands indicted, Tierney said.

Another strategy was the drafting of a new Trespass Notice, to be served by the police upon a shoplifting offender at the time of their arrest, giving notice to the shoplifter that they were no longer legally permitted to enter the store.

Subsequently, if the shoplifter returns to that same store, the offender can then be charged with the crime of Trespass, or Burglary in the Third Degree, a Class D felony.

In August of 2023, a defendant stole merchandise from a Walgreens in Riverhead, was apprehended, charged with petit larceny, and served with a Trespass Notice. The defendant returned to the same Walgreens in December 2023 and stole additional merchandise. On this second occasion, in addition to another petit larceny charge, law enforcement charged the defendant with Burglary in the Third Degree based on the Trespass Notice.

Tierney also showed his mettle in cracking down on retail theft when he busted a Newark, NJ-based crime ring after they stole $94,000 worth of high-end merchandise from an East Hampton Balenciaga store. The perps, who distracted an employee and dashed out with expensive handbags, were sentenced to between three and seven years in prison.

Gov. Kathy Hochul, staying true to the destructive criminal policies

of the Progressives, vetoed a bill that would have established a state task force to combat retail theft. The measure, which received support from both sides of the aisle, was drafted in response to shoplifters and smash-and-grab thieves who have unleashed a crime wave under the cover of the soft-on-crime Democrats.

“Retailers throughout the state are extremely disappointed to learn that Governor Hochul vetoed a bipartisan bill that would have established the New York State Organized Retail Crime Task Force,” said Melissa O’Connor, President and CEO of the Retail Council of New York State. “Stores that invest in New York communities lose $4.4 billion to retail theft, and this illegal activity certainly has community safety implications.”

Sadly, stores in Suffolk have resorted to keeping popular theft items under lock and key, with shoppers having to be escorted to the register when purchasing more expensive goods after they are unlocked. The situation has caused national retailers to bail out of various locations.

After 40 Years of Service, Rotary Club Rests On Its Laurels

ByRobertChartuk

After 40 years of service to the community, the Rotary Club of Shirley & the Mastics held the final meeting on November 26th and will cease club operations at the end of the year.

The club had supported many worthwhile projects through the years consistent with its motto, "Service Above Self,” noted Lorraine Kuehn, Assistant Governor of Rotary District 7255.

Their supporting efforts included literacy, scholarships, William Floyd High School Student of the Month recognitions, Interact Club, food and clothing drives, holiday donations, and Veterans of the Military, to name a few. They expressed gratitude for the community's support over many years.

Paul Casciano, a retired Superintendent of the William

Floyd School District, served as president of the club for the last several years and contributed significantly to the ShirleyMastic area. Active members were former Suffolk County Clerk Judy Pascale; Nancy Marks, a past trustee of the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library; Club Treasurer Josephine Piech; and Peggy Guiducci.

The club was a driving force in the Tri-Hamlet Area over the decades having many community leaders as members. It was a go-to organization for local officials and VIPs and helped so many. They will be sorely missed, especially during the holidays, when they were a fixture at local shopping centers, organizing food and clothing drives for needy families.

The club brought together individuals from diverse professional backgrounds to make a positive impact both

locally and worldwide. As part of an international organization, the club helped a worldwide push to eradicate polio, an effort that raised over $2 billion and devoted countless volunteer hours toward the cause. They provided scholarships and leadership programs for youth through Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. Their Rotary Peace Centers fostered world peace, and they worked to improve access to clean

water and sanitation globally by constructing wells, water purification systems, and toilets in underserved areas.

The Rotary is known for creating Global Connections through its international exchange programs, such as the Rotary Youth Exchange and Group Study Exchange, which promote cultural understanding and fellowship.

Rotary International was

founded in 1905 by Chicago attorney Paul P. Harris. He formed the organization to create a platform for professionals to exchange ideas and build friendships while serving their communities. Since then, it has grown to approximately 1.4 million members and has been organized into over 46,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and regions worldwide.

Chamber Flips Holiday Switch

ByRobertChartuk

The Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics & Shirley flipped the switch on the holiday season at their annual Community Tree Lighting. A beautiful tree on the corner of Commack and Mastic roads will illuminate the yuletide as the community gets into the giving spirit.

Chamber President Frank Montanez of FMJ Productions was on hand, making sure everything was perfect for the visit from Santa. The tree serves as a bright welcome to the community, where everyone is encouraged to shop local to support the area’s small businesses.

Notables at the annual ceremony include Assemblyman Joe DeStefano

and his chief of staff, Alice Painter; Legislator Jim Mazzarella; Karen DunneKesnig, the Brookhaven Town Board member representing the area; and staff from Senator Dean Murray’s office. Other chamber officials include Vice President Joseph

H. Johnson, Esq.; Secretary Kim Swicicki of Caitlyn’s Vision; Treasurer Mallory Lescenski of Dime Community Bank; and the Loan Depot’s Paul Quinn, Sergeant at Arms. Thanks go out to Ultimate Mower Repair and Tool for helping host the popular event.

Credit: Rotary Club

Rotary Club of Shirley & the Mastics members, from left, Josephine Piech, Paul Casciano, Peggy Guiducci, Judy Pascale, and Nancy Marks.

Credit: Alice Painter

Credit: Office of the District Attorney Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney

ByDeborahWilliams

Friends don’t let friends shop at big-box stores say the small business owners in our community. Buy local. Shop local. ‘Tis the season to support local and family-owned businesses.

The Buy Local movement has existed for some time. It has become even more important in the postCOVID era when so many small businesses suffered badly from forced government shutdowns. Many closed for good, and the ones that remained need our support more than ever.

Frank Montenez, Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics & Shirley, said, “Our whole mission is to support our small businesses and local businesses in the community. Especially now during the holiday season, I think it's important to go out and support the local vendors. The local businesses are the ones that contribute back to the community

Friends Don't Let Friends Shop at Big Box Stores

and contribute to organizations in the community. We do as much social media promotion of events at our local shops as we possibly can.”

“They're the ones that sponsor the baseball team and donate the gift card for your school raffle,” says Montenez. “They are the ones giving to all the local organizations and schools and volunteer in organizations like the Chamber of Commerce or the Kiwanis or the Lions Club.”

Buy Local is more than just supporting Bob General Store or Sue’s Candle Shop. Buying local churns dollars into the local economy more than buying at chain stores. The people who own the local stores also employ local people and those dollars stay local rather than being sent far away to the corporate headquarters.

The New Economics Foundation (NEF) says, “At the most basic level, when you buy local more money

stays in the community.” Compared to when people buy produce at a supermarket versus a local farmer’s market, studies found that twice the money stayed in the community when folks bought locally.

NEF researcher David Boyle says, “Many local economies are languishing not because too little cash comes in, but from of what happens to that money. Money is like blood. It needs to keep moving around to keep the economy going.” Boyle says that when money is spent elsewhere — at big supermarkets, non-locally owned utilities, and other services such as online retailers — it flows out, like a wound.

When you are looking for holiday gifts or anything at any other time of the year, look local. Support your local business district. Remember they support you, too.

Montenez concluded by saying we need to “keep shopping local

to keep our local

that's what we need. We need

businesses alive and thriving, or we don’t have a community.”

Massapequa "Porch Pirate" Scam Reminds Holiday Shoppers to Keep Their Passwords on Lock

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

"You really don't know what anyone is capable of.”

National headlines have come to an unduly targeted touchstone of Long Island suburbia once again, thanks to the annually infuriating “porch pirate” infestation.

Naturally, with the arrival of the holidays comes shopping sprees galore. Consequently: petty criminal activity in the online commerce sector also experiences a back-loaded surge. In the age of the world wide web, in-store bystanders are not as susceptible to schemes reminiscent of half-baked performance artistry as one is upon their unwitting front porch step.

The Bernhard’s of Massapequa Park were minding their own business one day earlier this month.

The mother of homeowner Erica Bernhard happened to be right there to bear witness to a stranger emerging from completely out of the blue to swipe a package just after it had been delivered.

The uninvited guest did not anticipate the whole family would

burst out of the Atlantic Avenue home and chase after him until he was forced to speed off — though without the package in tow.

But that is exactly what happened.

Shortly after the investigation commenced, Nassau County police quickly deduced that hackers had grabbed hold of Erica’s Bloomingdale’s account through her password and ordered a flurry of items to the Bernhard household.

One of the modern-day wet bandit-wannabees cased the arrival of the UPS delivery truck to a tee but underestimated both his victims’ collective resiliency — not to mention the doorbell camera revolution as well.

Porch-set surveillance footage documents the entirety of the incident, meaning porch pirates have nowhere to run for long.

Nevertheless, the seasonal epidemic marches on, with all online shoppers forced to ask: “What are we doing wrong?”

"This was a scam. Somebody ordered it, we did not order it, and then out of the corner of my eye,

here comes the guy," father Glenn Bernhard said. “It was mayhem.”

A cyber-scam of this ilk is a timely reminder for gift purchasers everywhere to be weary of protecting their information, especially during the mad dash rush of Black Friday to Cyber Monday shopping.

In the aftermath of the Bernhard situation, Nassau County detectives advise families to keep an active look at their online activity, and to not use the same, predictable passwords across various different accounts.

Civilian shoppers are not the only ones susceptible to such digitallybased subterfuge.

The Suffolk County offices’ online network was infamously hacked in 2022. Warning signs missed by the previous regime under former County Executive Steve Bellone were swiftly prioritized through related reform efforts — like cybersecurity insurance application filings and $4 million budget proposals listing cybersecurity at the forefront — headed by his successor, Ed Romaine.

“This fiscally responsible budget addresses the critical needs of our county and ensures the safer and more affordable Suffolk that all residents deserve,” Romaine said in a statement back in October.

The people of Nassau deserve said safety, too. People everywhere

do.

"You really don't know what anyone is capable of,” Erica Bernhard told media outlets enmeshed in covering her family’s ultra-preventable thrust into the mass spotlight.

So when you are buying that bundle of Under Armour apparel for the younger cousin you drew in this year’s Secret Santa, commit the athletic wear company’s “Protect this House” mantra to memory — just like the Bernhards did without even realizing it.

Do so in more ways than one, and you will be as golden as the longterm “success” for a porch pirate is not.

Legislator Leslie Kennedy Honors "Paws

of

War" Volunteer

BySouthShorePressStaff

The Suffolk County Legislature held a ceremony in which each legislative district office honored a non-profit volunteer.

Legislator Rebecca Sanin organized the event, which honored non-profit volunteers from all walks of life across Suffolk County.

The 12th Legislative District’s honoree was Michael Sweeney from Paws of War. Legislator Leslie Kennedy has a long history of working with Paws of War, who immediately recommended dedicated volunteer Michael Sweeney.

Mr. Sweeney is a Navy veteran with over a decade of service. His deployments include Operation

because the small businesses are the lifeblood of the community. And

small

Credit: Meta AI

Credit: "Eufy" home security footage

Buy local.

Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, and the evacuation of the American Embassy in Lebanon. For his time in the Navy, he was

awarded with two Bronze Stars. Paws of War served as a way for Sweeney to readjust to civilian life.

Credit: Suffolk County Legislature Michael Sweeney and Legislator Kennedy

LOCAL

ByRobertChartuk

It’s a place of serenity and solace, peace and perseverance, a shop where you can treat yourself to a special prize or find the most heartfelt gift for a loved one or friend. Gavin’s Treasures on Main Street in Center Moriches is stocked with the work of local artists, creators who pour their hearts into their craft in the hope that it will mean as much to the recipient as it does to them.

Owner Tova Keblish will greet you, and if you stay long enough, she’ll regale you with the story behind every piece. There are bracelets made from the cord a rescuer cut from a tangled sea turtle. There are crystals with innate powers fashioned into vials to hold

Gavin's, A Treasure on Main Street

the memory of a love lost. You can have a seashell personalized or the metal from horseshoes and railroad spikes made into a focal piece worthy of any mantle. They all inhabit curated displays that beseech you to lean in and experience the depth of their allure.

Gavin’s was borne of tragedy and heartbreak. Keblish’s son, an only child fondly remembered as the “love of my life,” was accidentally poisoned eight years ago by an illicit drug at the beginning of what came to be known as the Fentanyl Crisis.

He was a motocross racer who dedicated himself as a counselor to the children of Little Flower, a special school in Wading River.

The Eastport-South Manor grad was a kind soul, an alum of Albany University, loved by all who knew

him, his life cut short at 23 by the avarice of pushers and greed.

Keblish could not bear to take home her son’s many trophies from his wake, displayed among the photographs and memories of an extraordinary life. Her friends took possession of them and created a mural from their materials that now stands as the centerpiece of Gavin’s Treasures.

“Opening a store in Gavin’s name was just about the last thing l had in mind,” said Keblish’s, a 30-year veteran of the corporate world. “When l saw that mural and experienced the comfort it gave me, l knew l had to bring the same peace of mind to others. I want to be here for people; help them heal. Gavin’s treasures are the connection from my heart to the rest of the world.”

Gavin’s is far from an ordinary gift shop. Visitors are treated to displays of handmade purses or coasters made of slate and wood. They can discover hand-blown glass ornaments and Turkish lamps, meticulously placed mosaics, and bottle tags made of shells. They have their choice of candles that reveal Reiki-charged stones when melted down. Here, you can choose minerals: mica, malachite, pyrite, slate, bumble bee jasper. “Everything's made by local artisans," says Tova, who's celebrating the fifth anniversary of Gavin's. “There’s no crap here from China.”

Birdhouse craftsman Mike Rignola drops in for a hello and a big hug from Keblish. They talk about his squirrel feeder picnic table

and the many homes he’s built for Long Island birds. There’s a deep connection between Keblish and the carpenter, honed through years of collaboration. Let Keblish and her artists accessorize your wedding or special event.

You can take classes at Gavin’s and learn about auras and crystals, the energy around us. Hear from a medium; have your Tarot cards read by Nina on Dec. 7 and 8. Finklespott’s Fairy Hair will also be there all this week. Go to gavinstreasures.com to find out more. One visit and your stress will evaporate; inspiration will abound.

Near Gavin’s home in Eastport, there is a bench in a little park dedicated to his memory, which will live on in the many loving gifts from his chest of treasures.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

The mural that insured Gavin’s Treasures.

ByRobertChartuk

A New Era for Thos. Cornell Galleries

Imagine you’re a discerning collector with a team traveling the world to find the perfect pieces to fit your motif. You have experts with years of experience in treasures from 400 BC to the present day. They specialize in art, furniture, glass, precious metals, you name it, from Buenos Aires, Paris, Cairo, and other global sources.

If finding that perfect home furnishing or a gift for a picky friend who has it all is on your to-do list, you’ve struck gold. Connaisures of this caliber have come to Bellport: the new proprietors of Thos. Cornell Galleries on Main Street. After 45 years of Cornell auctions, partners Carlo Libaridian and Roy Braeger are soaring the venerable company to new heights.

Their spacious emporium has emerged as a village meeting space, a congenial place to view upcoming auctions, and a retail showroom where patrons can acquire their rarities right on the spot. “We’ve had everyone from countesses to longshoremen come in, patrons of curiously disparate tastes,” said Braeger, noting that the location has taken on the air of a Greek agora.

“It feels like we’re in a Fellini movie,” posited Libaridian, referring to the films known for their surrealism, fantasy, and introspection. Indeed, the gallery has become a place of shared interest where people can talk of their tastes with like-minded collectors seeking artifacts and mementos they can revere for ages.

Manhattanite Andrea Teschke breezes in, excited about a piece she’s picked up. “We’re so glad Braeger and Libaridian are here,” she exclaims. “We look forward to their upcoming events.” Bellport pillar Louise McGuiness gushes: “It’s all so unique and well presented.”

Launching into conversations with his many guests, Braeger quips: “It’s hard to get anything done around here.”

An event planner for 30 years before diving headfirst into this new pursuit, Braeger boasts a background in art and creativity. He’s curated openings on the grandest scale for the Metropolitan Opera House, Lincoln Center, Ferrari, and movie premiers such as Batman. When the pandemic drove him to isolation, he unleashed his muse, creating prickly murals from bamboo pieces. When asked to

name a particular work that depicts curves in the space-time continuum, he thought for a moment and called it “Millenium.”

Libaridian was born into the world of objects d’art. Originally from Buenos Aires, he was bitten by the bug at an early age and grew up collecting and traveling the world looking for items “you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.” Also maintaining a space for worldly objects called Dorian Voyageur at Manhattan’s Bergdorf Goodman, he says his desire is to find things to delight his customers.

Gliding through the gallery, Libaridian points to a new acquisition, a pair of sculptures from the “Anointed Series” by American glass artist Paul J. Nelson. He stops to take pride in a bronze sculpture he designed himself and had cast in a foundry in Argentina. Also up for grabs is a whimsical silver plate tea pot set and a glossed ostrich egg set on a 19th-century gilt bronze base, a mid-century dresser by Paul Evans, an art nouveau silver plated champagne bucket, and a vintage porcelain bulldog made in Japan.

“Someone’s going to go nuts over this,” Libaridian declares as he beckons Braeger over to a set of

green Chinese lacquered chairs to pose for a picture.

The pair came together for the new venture in the most serendipitous way. Braeger overheard a mutual friend, the same person who had discussed it with Libaridian, mention that the gallery was for sale. Braeger’s ears perked up and soon he was on the phone with his future partner, whom he had only met once before in passing. The process of acquiring the business was wrought with challenges, and through the vicissitudes, they cemented a productive working relationship.

“We were thrown into this blender together; the negotiations took a long time,” Braeger remembers. “We had our first ups and downs, and our minds reached the same conclusions. We discovered we can complement each other.”

“It's a statistical anomaly: You can have a great business partner or the love of your life,” Libaridian reflected. “You can’t have both, and I’m happy to have the business partner.”

Aside from auctions and their retail space, which includes a room

filled with “affordable art,” the duo plans charity events for ARF, the Animal Rescue Fund, and other local concerns. They want to host a dinner series with guest chefs and present a place for cocktails where people can queue up before a wedding, for instance. “We want the space to be fluid and changing, with different activities. There will always be something going on,” Braeger explained, promising that the roster will switch up weekly when the summer haven comes alive during the warmer months.

Those familiar with Thos. Cornell’s auctions will be thrilled to know they will still get the white glove treatment from his staff: Veronica Gretton, Nancy Ludwig, and Christine Rudkowsky have remained on board to keep the house running smoothly.

For more information, visit CornellAuctions.com, email info@ cornellauctions.com, or phone (631) 289-9505. Be sure to check out the preview of their Dec. 14 auction, which promises exceptional items from prestigious estates, including original artwork and sculptures, antique and vintage furniture, lighting, unique collectibles, and much more.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

The new proprietors of the Thos. Cornell Galleries, Carlo Libaridian, left, and Roy Braeger.

ByRobertChartuk

Low-Interest Loans Available for August Flood Damage

Those who suffered damages from the floods that battered Suffolk in August can apply for low-interest federal loans. The offer comes after the outgoing Biden administration denied assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the affected areas, a decision being appealed by state officials.

Under the U.S. Small Business Administration loan offer, homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or restore their primary home to pre-disaster condition, while up to $100,000 can be had for homeowners and renters to repair or replace personal property. Businesses and private, non-profit organizations can get up to $2 million.

“While we’re disappointed that FEMA denied us assistance like they have for other areas that supported President Trump, we’re glad that the loans will be made available,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano. “We’ll keep fighting to get the decision overturned.

Hopefully, the situation will change when the new president takes over.”

Up to $100 million in damages were caused in Suffolk by the torrential rain and ensuing floods. Flood waters described as “biblical” tore down the Mill Pond dam and wiped out houses and roads in Stony Brook. In

Smithtown, the Stump Pond dam let loose and completely drained the nearly century-old lake. Homes and businesses were deluged in many areas that had previously never flooded.

FEMA's hesitance to provide assistance to communities that supported Trump became an issue in the presidential election. The

Rave Reviews for New Library

ByRobertChartuk

agency was criticized for its poor response to Hurricane Helene and a management directive not to help Republican areas.

“Long Islanders are still feeling the effects of August’s extreme weather, and alongside our federal partners, we’re ensuring that communities have the resources they need to recover,” said Gov.

Kathy Hochul. “Resiliency is part of our DNA as New Yorkers, and my administration is working diligently to provide support for those impacted by this flooding.”

“These disaster loans are a lifeline for Long Islanders, providing critical support to help them rebuild and restore their livelihoods,” noted Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “I thank the SBA for offering this vital assistance and will continue to fight to ensure all New Yorkers have every available resource to accelerate the recovery process after severe weather events.”

Residents can find additional information and apply for a loan online at sba.gov/fundingprograms/disaster-assistance. They can also call SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@ sba.gov.

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Jan. 27, 2025, and the deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 26, 2025.

The South Shore Press Man on the Street asked residents what they thought about the new Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community

The new library is great. I like the Play Space for the kids. My daughter is enjoying herself with new friends. She did a scavenger hunt and won a prize. She’s having a lot of fun. We will definitely be back. There’s much more to do here than the satellite branches.”

Sarah Wood, Mastic Beach

We’ve been waiting a while for the new library, and now that it’s finally here, it’s great. It’s big and roomy. We’ve been to the library annexes, but we will come here from now on. We love the library.”

Pam Aiello, Shirley

It looks very good; I’ll be coming back often. I’m looking forward to the events and programs and the new coffee shop that’s coming in. The library main branch is much bigger than the Moriches and Mastic Beach annexes. It’s very nice.”

Hal

Dammann, Shirley

The computer room is great. I’m home from school, and this is a perfect place to study and catch up on things. It’s nice and quiet.”

Danny Moya, Shirley

The new space will bring more people to the library. It’s very modern, more inviting. My kids were born during the pandemic, so they didn’t have a chance to come here until now. It’s a good feeling to have a major library back. It’s a nice place to relax as the kids enjoy themselves.”

Jose Zavala, Mastic

I have to say the new library is clean, modern, spacious, comfortable, bright, minimalistic, roomy, wonderful.”

Abe Korn, Moriches

Damage caused by the August flood.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Library.

ByRobertChartuk

Suffolk Residents Hail Red Light Camera Demise

People shouldn’t be extorted by their own government. They should be there to protect us, not create a nanny state to collect our money. It's interesting how these cameras were mostly in low-income areas.”

Angelo Veltri, Save Long Island president, Shoreham

Steve Ruth is our own ‘Suffering County’ Red Light Camera Robin Hood. He’s our hero. He busted his butt, exposing a lot of corruption. This was a corrupt program all along.”

Linda Fregu, Port Jefferson

This is fantastic news. The quick yellow lights caused too many accidents. Our roads will be safer now, and we won’t have the county picking our pockets. I’m glad we won’t have to worry about this anymore.”

Janet Hawthorne, Coram

It’s great to be finally getting rid of them. We got a ticket and looked at the video. It wasn’t fair. It was green and turned yellow when we were going through it, and we still got a ticket. Good luck fighting it. The ticket cost us a lot of money.”

Kerri Fagone, Medford

Shop Local is the Community Mantra

ByRobertChartuk

Everything is here that you could want. Why go to a mass retailer? Everything is unique and much better than you can get at a big chain or box store. Some people like the thrill of the hunt, finding something that you can’t get online.”

Nancy Ludwig, Babylon

It’s important to give back to the community by shopping at our local stores. It’s important to keep our dollars here. Close to home is always good.”

Andrew Silva, East

Shopping locally is good for the economy and important for the country. The experience is much more personal. It saves time. You can absolutely do all of your holiday shopping in one place. There’s something for everyone in all price ranges.”

I’m glad they are gone. They were nothing but a revenue source for the county. I hope we don’t get hit in the pocket with something else to make up the difference.”

Arleen Veltri, Ridge

If it was only about safety, why weren’t they in some towns? And why was the first reaction of the politicians was where they could make up the money?”

Charles Clampett, Blue Point

Are they going to reimburse us now?”

Marge Kochman, Belle Terre

You’ll get better service, and you know we’ll always be here for you. We are your neighbors; we care about our community and will always do the right thing for our neighbors.”

Al Claudio, AC Complete Automotive, East Patchogue

It’s good to get the kids out to their neighborhood stores. The people are friendly, they know you. The shopping experience is more personal and good for everyone.”

Veronica Gretton, Patchogue

Cristina Sarabando, East Patchogue

Patchogue

Residents are enthused about shopping local and supporting community businesses this holiday season. Here’s what they told the South Shore Press Man on the Street:

The South Shore Press Man on the Street attended the victory party for Stephen Ruth, the Red Light Camera Robin Hood. Here’s what the attendees had to say about the program's demise.

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

100-Year-Old Navy Vet and Author Visits Great Hollow Middle School

Just ahead of his appearance on Mon. Dec. 2nd in Smithtown, Dr. Jack Weber told The South Shore Press the key to good, long living is one-fold: golfing.

Beyond this sly quip from quite the spy guy with a centennial celebration under his belt, Jack presented the cliff notes of his COVID pandemic-penned memoir, aptly entitled “Jack Weber, Here!” He did so in conversation with his daughter, Nancy, before the Great Hollow Middle School class she teaches.

According to Amazon's teaser: “Jack Weber, Here! is an incredibly moving memoir about love, loss, and the power of resilience, written with insight and humor by a member of the Greatest Generation.”

The teens on hand were mesmerized to earn a telling glimpse of the truly great life lived by the man who sat, and occasionally stood before them; his presence, in many ways, signified an American History lesson.

Weber survived the Great Depression and witnessed the building of the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge in the 1930s, all while dealing with the rise of antisemitism overseas rearing its ugly head domestically.

An avid local sports fan and recreational competitor once upon a time, Weber triumphantly played college baseball despite not making the varsity squad as a high schooler. He also recalls a New York Giants game he was listening to over the radio being suddenly interrupted by the Dec. 7th, 1941 report of the Pearl Harbor attack.

Weber served in the Navy for eight years afterward, including during World War II. He later earned his medical degree to practice dentistry in 1952, an occupation he held for a large portion of the remainder of his impressively long professional—and overall life; one rife with children, grandchildren, and even more great-children, the twelfth of which, who was named "Jack" in his honor, was born the day after the elder family patriarch celebrated his 100th birthday in May.

Sitting atop the movie-like moments of his one-of-a-kind life: Weber met his wife, Betty Keyerleber, when they were dissecting frogs at Oberlin College, where he was military stationed at the time.

She approached the young sailor on the come-up to be her lab partner, and the rest was history.

“Whenever we have the

opportunity to have someone from the greatest generation in our building to talk to our students, we seize that opportunity,” said Great Hollow Middle School Principal, John Scomillio.

After the presentation, Weber lauded a most fascinating additional fact about how he has spent his later years.

In 2023, Weber accepted the presidency of a seen-better-days Riverhead Lions Club—the greater service organization, Lions Club International (LCI), for which he has traveled the US as a keynote speaker, and even got to throw out

the first pitch at Shea Stadium on behalf of.

What had fallen to a 6-man operation, grew into a 19-deep roster under his expansive watch.

Per these efforts, Weber encouraged the kids to keep a “never give up attitude” in all areas of their lives.

The students were next encouraged to purchase Weber’s hard-cover memoir for just $40 Amazon, and to keep a lookout for the Netflix-hopeful documentary Weber’s nephew is currently cutting together about Jack's life, including scenes from his return to

the old neighborhood last year.

Weber rose to thank “the most incredible group of people” for hosting him, and wished the kids looking on “the best in everything they do” before pausing for his welldue applause.

Though the claps came reigning in, the fun-having showman within Great Hollow’s esteemed guest of honor appeared visibly unsatisfied. He quickly broke out some unexpectedly rhythmic dance moves, which successfully replenished the room with a renewal of energy.

Such was much needed at the end of a longer-than-usual Monday that marked the district’s return from the Thanksgiving holiday.

Shouted one student elatedly as Weber grooved with the moves of someone who wears a much younger man's shoes: “Jack Weber’s got buzz, bruh!”

Here’s to the Greatest Generation, and to a most creative current one for paying it forward with complimentary slanguage everyone strives to receive one day; for this means you have made it much further than anyone ever reckoned you would.

And, especially in Weber's case, did so in absolute style.

Bayport-Blue Point HS Takes it Personally: Outdoor Wellness Center

Unveiled

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

The Bayport-Blue Point school district held a ribbon-cutting on Monday, Nov. 25th to unveil the outdoor portion of its wellness center built to operate as a sanctuary for students to combat their inner turmoil.

This comes ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday break, in conjunction with the conclusion of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and after a tragic trio of losses that have rocked their community over the past couple of years.

This outdoor space complements the Indoor Wellness Center, first unveiled back in February, furthering the district’s noble initiative: to prioritize the social, emotional, and mental health needs of its students moving forward.

Accompanying the “P.S. I Love You Day”-introduced “Indoor Wellness Center’s” quick access to the school psychologist and social workers, and soft music relaxations, notable components included within the Outdoor Wellness Center are: a sensory garden, labyrinth walk, a trellis, paths, benches, and three shade trees—one each in honor of Chris Coluccio, Chase Nasca and Gabby Petito, respectively.

“I am grateful beyond words for how our small town held each other up during these tragedies,”

Superintendent of Schools Timothy Hearney said of the two highprofile suicides of then-district students, and domestic violencerelated homicide of a recent alum.

“In the 2021-22 school year, we lost two high school students within months of each other… in our sadness, we felt helpless, overwhelmed, scared, and lost. Together, we understand the scope of loss and the depth of mourning. It was that grief that led to the personal connections—and vision— that ultimately helped us to move forward.”

Hearney thanked the school district, the Board of Education, donors and small businesses like the Knapp-Swezey Foundation, Island Outreach, the Gardiner Foundation, All-County Block, BBS Architects, and Park East Construction, along with the families of victims instrumental in carrying the legacy of their lost children forward, for all their efforts in bringing this special space to fruition.

“It really does give me extreme pleasure to see the transformation from 50 years ago—we just had our reunion—at the high school. It is phenomenal. Every time I walk in recently, I’m in amazement at what

has happened,” said Donald Knapp, of Bayport-Blue Point High School’s Class of 1974.

“When I went to high school, mental health was not even discussed,” he adds. “It wasn’t even a discussion. We worked to the forefront and we sincerely hope that this will be another tool for the toolbox to assist in dealing with that issue, which we now recognize. We thank the school administration for being so supportive of the project.”

Speaking of: said Principal Jamal Walcott during the ceremony: “Dr. Hearney did all the hard work… this is truly a special day, and an honor to be a part of this. Being a part of this groundbreaking effort— this beautiful indoor and outdoor facility is truly remarkable.”

A pair of elected local leaders were also in attendance to share a few words about what the outdoor wellness center means to them on a personal level.

“There are so many beautiful and wonderful parts of our community that we love and are proud of,” said Brookhaven Councilman Neil Foley. “I think this area over here— what you all have created—will save people’s lives,” said Brookhaven Councilman Neil Foley.

Like Knapp, Islip Councilman John Lorenzo does not remember much focus on mental health

whatsoever during his upbringing.

“To have a place where the young can go outside and sit and reflect… or maybe have a conversation with someone, is well-needed,” he said.

“It’s a great project.”

“This is such a tremendous day,” said Katie Edwards, senior, member of the Superintendent Council since the third grade, and one of the six students Hearney singled out for organizing the 5k Coco Run for Suicide Awareness to be held on December 14th.

“It is so awesome to see so many people in the community involved,” Edwards added. “Seeing your hard work and dedication is

simply astonishing. It does not go unnoticed.”

Hearney recalls doubling down on resisting the standard-issue wisdoms offered whenever tragedy strikes.

“In preparing for today, I took my own advice and reflected on the past few years. We’ve all heard the expression: ‘Don’t take it so personally.’ As superintendent of schools, I think about that often, and am grateful that we did.”

“In taking it personally,” Hearney adds, “we’ve made a meaningful difference for the new generation of BBP students.”

Jack Weber, Here!

Credit: Bayport-Blue Point School District

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

'Tis the Season! Smithtown-Made "Christmas Eve in Miller's Point" Now Available On Demand

“Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point,” the new critically acclaimed arthouse flick with mass appeal on the block, and that also filmed just around the block, is officially available to rent via on demand platforms like Amazon Prime Video for $5.99, where it can also be purchased for $19.99.

Just after its initial select theatrical release concludes on Dec. 5th at the IFC Center in Manhattan, the film wielding clear titular interest in showcasing the festive feasts that define this most wonderful time of the year will also be free to stream on AMC+ the following day: Dec. 6th.

Primarily shot in and around Smithtown, Selden and Holbrook, “Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point” was high-scale indie produced in conjunction with established SAGAFTRA talent and rising stars both on-screen and behind the camera. Together, they pursued a singular mission: to make the quintessential Long Island holiday joint.

After world-premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in May, and touring the international slate, “Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point” locally reached the Hamptons International Film Festival in October, and finally saw a multiweek run at Regal Deer Park Stadium of the Tanger Outlets last month—along with over 400+ theaters hosting screenings nationwide.

Tyler Taormina, a Smithtown High School West ’09 alum turned independent cinema staple at this juncture, is lauded for his mastery of directing seasoned talent and streetcast non-actors alike.

From a screenplay he co-wrote with childhood best friend, fellow Smithtown Wildcat Eric Berger, comes “Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point:” an intimate portrait of specifically Western Suffolk County suburban life that Taormina has directed with utmost sensitivity and precision.

After years of honing his craft with some unaired pilots for Nickelodeon and underground shorts for lowkey Los Angeles audiences shortly thereafter, Taormina’s feature-length debut hit the modern indie film resurgence at just the right time.

His 2019 surrealist coming-ofage odyssey, entitled “Ham on Rye,” was made for only $20,000 in LA— yet successfully willed he and his Omnes Film collective into longterm “rising filmmakers to look out for” territory.

Michael Cera (“Arrested Development,” “Superbad”) caught a screening of ‘Ham’ one day, and instantly knew he wanted to work with Taormina and Berger on whatever they pursued next.

CUT TO: a few short years later. After having become fast friends, the A-lister was able to help rally

respectable interest in Taormina and Berger’s passion project, opening doors that would have otherwise remained permanently closed.

He proved instrumental in the greenlighting of an ambitious project with an unorthodox structure; one that encapsulates what it means to be at once all consumed with transparently ritualistic excitement as you are ever basking in unshakeable melancholy when struck with the notion that all good things come to an end.

Meanwhile, as the earliest and most popular marketing material for the film revealed, Cera’s onscreen involvement is as a red light road warrior—a deader-thanDisco deadpan cop who, alongside his partner in fighting crime, “On Cinema’s” Gregg Turkington, have inspired many Reddit theories. Some even suppose that these winkto-“Superbad” goofball officers of the law just may be from another time, another place, another movie set—or even outer space.

Back in the ping-ponging, twopronged world most of the film lives in: it’s about that good-old tugof-war between the family you were born into, and that surrogate family you choose to wreak havoc with at every turnstop—not because you don’t love your family, but expressly because you do.

Self-playing pianos. Cute-ascan be pets, and others that invite nothing but suspense. “We may trust our kids a little too much with our” vintage cars. Diner tabletop needle-drops—nay—bangers. 24hour bagel extravaganzas. Makeout cove. Ice skating in the wild. Salamiwrapped pretzel sticks, again. Rock ‘em, sock ‘em…

Reborn are the memories both epic and minute of Christmastime's past that you thought you had left there, but are proud to recognize you have brought with you along this unavoidable journey called growing up. “Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point” is a movie that makes you confront the passing of time and the inevitability of aging with no fear, some tears, and Gorp Beers.

Standout scenes singled out by the general consensus that which

hit like a life-sized Hess Truck come possessively to life under the toosmall-to-contain-it-so Christmas Tree include:

(1) the trippiest Fire Truck parade scene ever shot, in collaboration with the Smithtown Fire Department and locally sourced extras; and:

(2) a living room memory lane stroll per breaking out the old VHS tapes.

Notes: The Guardian: “It might

resemble other family dramas, but there’s a hum of something strange underneath, a sense that life is about surrendering to the infinite flow of events.”

The latter sequence blends actual home videos of some of the film’s adult actors as young children, and wedding footage shot with an authentically old camera and extras adorned in even older wardrobe. These pieces were collected via donations and assembled by another natural born Smithtownian:

Taormina and Berger’s childhood friend turned costume designer, Kim Odenthal.

Many townsfolk who lent resources and galvanized additional support for the production were not disappointed when the local rollout was finally underway.

“Fun, quirky movie, and my ‘69 Chevelle was in it 4 times,” Randy Bublitz, of St. James, writes. “Thanks for the credit at the end.”

“Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point” has already topped or ranked on many esteemed outlets' “Best of…” yearly lists. Stay tuned for more as the holidays approach.

The film stars: Matilda Fleming, Ben Shenkman, Maria Dizzia, Lev Cameron, Gregg Turkington, Francesca Scorsese, Sawyer Spielberg, and Michael Cera (also a producer); and an eclectic ensemble of additional locally hired performers making their big-screen debut or earning their big break in a film with annual revisitation in its make-up and forecast.

“Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point” can be rented or purchased on AmazonPrimeVideoasofDec.3rd.It willbefreetostreamwithanAMC+ subscriptionstartingonDec.6th.

Suffolk County Police to Hold Vehicle Auction

BySouthShorePress

The Suffolk County Police Department Impound Section will hold an auction on December 7 at the department’s impound facility, located at 100 Old Country Road in Westhampton.

The auction will begin at 9 a.m. and will be held rain or shine. There will be a preview of vehicles on December 5th and December 6th between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the impound yard.

Vehicles will also be available for preview for one hour prior to the start of the auction on December 7th.

More than 80 vehicles will be auctioned off including sedans, SUVs and motorcycles.

Credit: Grok/X

Visit www.suffolkpd.org for more information

All vehicles will start with a minimum bid of $500 and are sold as-is.

For a full list of vehicles,

registration information and terms and conditions for the auction, visit www.suffolkpd.org and click on Impound Section and Vehicle Auctions.

Bayport-Blue Point HS Takes...

Continued from page 13

Suicide is now the secondleading cause of death after unintentional injury among people ages 10 to 34 in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

In the Bayport-Blue Point School District, they are doing everything they possibly can to make sure it does not happen to one of their own again.

Our mantra is not just words,” ‘those words being ‘Belong, Believe, Possible,’ Hearney says, “but actions.”

“The wellness center is not only a first for our community, it is significant for all communities in Suffolk County. However, what matters most is not being first. But it’s what the wellness center symbolizes and represents,” said Principal Walcott.

“It symbolizes that every

student at Bayport-Blue Point High School, we see you,” he adds. “We see you as individuals, not just an AP or regents or SAT score. We understand the ups and downs of life. We have developed a facility and a staff that will not only acknowledge the challenges, but also create supportive environments to address them.” “At BBP, no student is left behind.”

Chris Lazzaro as "Cousin Bruce" in "Christmas Eve in Miller's Point," available to stream on AMC+ starting Dec. 6th.

Credit: IFC Films

Cap and Gown Orders Set For January at William Floyd High School

ByTheSouthShorePress

Parents and guardians of William Floyd High School seniors are being urged to begin preparations for the upcoming graduation ceremony scheduled for June 28, 2025. A key part of these preparations involves ordering caps, gowns, and tassels, which will be worn during the commencement exercises.

A representative from the cap and gown company will be available at the school on Jan. 14 and 15 to measure students. Ordering will take place during lunch periods from 8:50 a.m. to 12:46 p.m. in the senior cafeteria hallway. These are the only dates available for placing orders. In case a student is absent,

STATE

ByDeborahWilliams

arrangements can be made with a classmate to place an order on their behalf, provided they know the student's height and weight.

Each graduating student will receive a package containing a cap, gown, and tassel. The cost for this package is $33, payable at the time of ordering. Payment must be made in cash or by money order payable to Herff Jones, Inc., as checks will not be accepted. No refunds will be given for any items ordered.

Lisa M. Pisano, assistant principal at William Floyd High School, emphasized that "only those seniors wearing the appropriate cap and gown will be permitted to participate in the graduation

ceremony." Parents are encouraged to ensure their children order on Jan. 14 or 15 and complete all academic requirements necessary for graduation.

Receipt of this letter does not guarantee participation in the ceremony; eligibility depends

on maintaining good standing throughout the year.

For further inquiries, parents can contact (631) 874-1177.

Bellport Middle School Names New Assistant Principal

ByStefanMychajliw

The South Country School District Board of Education appointed Dr. Anthony Aiello as Bellport Middle School’s new assistant principal, effective Dec. 16th, 2024.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Aiello to our district,” said Superintendent of Schools Antonio Santana. “He joins us with a wealth of experience, and we are certain he will be a positive asset to our district and our students.”

Dr. Aiello joins South Country as a long-time educator. He most recently served as the assistant principal at Nassau BOCES’s Center for Community Adjustment.

He began his educational career as a history teacher in the alternative night school programs at both the Connetquot Central School District and Rocky Point

Union Free School District. He also taught history in the Central Islip Union Free School District and Hauppauge Union Free School District. While in Hauppauge, he also took on an administrative role as the coordinator of the high school’s personal academic support services.

Dr. Aiello holds a doctorate in education from St. John’s University, a master’s degree and certification in advanced

leadership from Stony Brook University, and a bachelor’s degree in history from St. Joseph’s College. He also holds certification from New York State in secondary social studies education, teaching students with disabilities and school leadership. He is an active member of the Long Island Council for the Social Studies, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and the Future Leaders Academy.

“I am truly honored and excited to be part of Bellport Middle School,” said Dr. Aiello. “I look forward to working closely with the administrative team to foster strong relationships with our students, staff and the school community, continuing the great work that has already made Bellport Middle School a place of excellence. Together, we will inspire and empower students to become lifelong learners and leaders.”

New York State Senator Suggests Parts of NY Should Secede From the Union

State Sen. Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan) has sounded the alarm that there are mere weeks left for New York to gird itself against Donald Trump becoming president again and parts of New York may want to think about seceding to Canada.

Krueger has been in the state senate since 2002 and serves as the chairwoman of the state Senate Finance Committee. In over 20 years serving New York, you’d think she would have gained some insight into her role in serving New Yorkers – not Canada.

Liz Krueger’s extreme ideology may be clouding her vision and her recollection of American history. The United States already fought a war to decide whether states could leave the union. The Civil War was a long, bloody war and the most costly in casualties than any other war in American history. Exactly what is Krueger suggesting and why?

Krueger is worried about protecting illegal immigrants from detention and deportation. She is also concerned about measures that would protect women’s sports and spaces from males participating and other measures to prevent chemical

and surgical interventions on young children who are going through a phase of gender dysphoria.

Not to mention that over 43% of New York voters voted for Trump — the highest vote share for a Republican in more than 30 years. Does Krueger have such disdain for 43% of the electorate that she would completely ignore her responsibility to represent them too? Krueger seems to have forgotten that once elected you represent everyone.

Krueger proposed back in September as the election was approaching that New York should join Canada should Trump win. And not just New York should leave the union, she proposed leaving with Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont. What those states’ residents have to say about the matter, we don’t know.

Krueger said, “Oh, why do I have to leave this country? I love this country, and if Trump wins a second term, it’s not actually my fault or the people in New York. So I thought I would suggest to Canada that instead of us all trying to illegally cross the border at night without them noticing … they should instead agree to let us be the southeast province, a new province of Canada.”

She also said, “Basically everybody in these states are progressive Democrats,” and that they “would fit in pretty well with the political philosophy of at least most of the Canadian elected officials.”

Krueger also suggested New York withholding more than $300 billion in taxes it remits to the federal

government. Even if she could get her colleagues to agree to such an extreme move, it is unlikely it could survive the courts.

Former ICE Director Tom Homan is Trump's new Border Czar and he has been clear that states that do not cooperate with and follow federal immigration law may have

federal funds blocked. If the feds followed through with that threat, it would cost New York $85 billion.

“We’re talking a lot of money,” Krueger said. “We’re talking money we couldn’t possibly replace unless we started sending the feds a lot less money.”

Dr. Anthony Aiello

Sen. Liz Krueger and President Donald Trump

Ban on Pet Stores Selling of Cats, Dogs, and Rabbits Set to Begin in New York

ByDeborahWilliams

In what the state calls an effort to stop dangerous and cruel breeding operations of much-beloved cats and dogs, it is banning commercial pet shops from selling these animal companions. Pet rabbits are also part of the ban.

In December of 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law and now, two years later, it is going into effect. The delay in implementation of the law was to allow time for pet stores and adoption agencies to get cooperative adoption systems in place. The law permits pet stores to charge shelters rent to use their space for adoptions.

Hochul said when she signed the legislation, “Dogs, cats, and rabbits across New York deserve loving homes and humane treatment," Gov. Hochul said. "I'm proud to sign this legislation, which will make meaningful steps to cut down on harsh treatment and protect the welfare of animals across the state."

The ban will go into effect on Dec. 15 and violators can be fined up to $1,000 per offense. Commercial pet shops can still partner up with not-for-profit adoption agencies to showcase pets and then the agencies would take the lead on the adoption process.

California

Credit:

shelters or rescue organizations to help connect New Yorkers with animals in need of a home.”

Not everyone is in favor of this legislation. New York Senator Dean Murray (R,C-Brookhaven) and Assemblymember Jodi Giglio (R,C – Riverhead) have proposed legislation opposing this new law. They say that this law penalizes legitimate pet stores that do not buy animals from puppy mills and deal only with legitimate breeders. The lawmakers say this ban will not end puppy mills and terrible conditions, but rather will just push it to the internet. South Shore Press reporter, Bob Chartuk, has a companion "Man on the Street" article discussing opposition to this new law.

Mixed Messages on Puppy Mill Law

AI ByRobertChartuk

to ban retail sale of companion animals. As of spring 2024, only eight states have prohibited the retail sale of animals sourced from puppy mills, with California, Maryland, Maine, Washington, Illinois, New York, Oregon, and Vermont.

"Bringing a new pet into a family should be a time of excitement and joy, but often animals from 'puppy mills' suffer from serious medical issues and leave families heartbroken over their sick pet and with a heavy bill to pay," James said. "This pet sale ban will help put an end to the dangerous puppy mill to pet store pipeline that endangers pets and costs New Yorkers thousands of dollars in veterinary care."

State Senator Michael Gianaris (D-Queens) and Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D,WFManhattan) who sponsored the legislation (S.1130/A.4283) say the law will prevent the buying and selling of animals from largescale, abusive breeders that lack proper veterinary care, food or socialization. They said that “oftentimes, these animals have health issues resulting from poor breeding and can cost families thousands of dollars in veterinary care. The legislation will continue to allow pet stores to host adoption services in conjunction with animal

Most agree that puppy mills should be shut down for abusing animals and saddling unsuspecting consumers with sick pets. However, some believe a new state law banning animal sales at pet stores goes too far and will make matters worse.

Senator Dean Murray said the “Puppy Mill Pipeline Law, which goes into effect December 15, should be repealed. He has a competing bill that allows pet stores to continue to operate and clarifies the state regulations that pertain to animal breeders. “It's the bad breeders that are causing the problems, not the pet stores,” Murray argued. “The pet stores are inspected; they are checked on a regular basis. They have checks and balances already in place. Why should you put them out of business?”

Murray said the law would drive unscrupulous breeders into the black market, selling puppies and other animals online and in places that defy government regulation. “This bill will probably make the abuse worse,” he said, noting that selling pets through legitimate pet stores would be the best way to keep tabs on the breeders.

“The retail pet sales ban is catastrophically misguided, and while well-intentioned, will result in negative impacts that have not been seriously considered or

addressed,” said Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio. “While purporting to protect animals, this feel-good legislation will result in increased suffering by countless dogs and cats and drive legitimate, long-standing businesses into bankruptcy.”

Giglio maintained that most pet stores operate at high standards and obtain their pets from reputable sources. “Responsible small business owners and innocent animals should not be made to suffer the consequences of this legislation,” she said, adding, “When government restricts business, the market reacts to fill a void. Since prohibition, we have learned that banning the sale of something simply drives those sales underground, where they cannot be regulated, monitored, or protected. Underground

markets exist and thrive for every item government prohibits, and it is clear that this legislation will do the same.”

The state of California enacted a similar mandate and is now awash in illegal pet sales, where truckloads of suffering animals are sold to residents through illicit means, Giglio reported. “Their legislation was wellintentioned. The result was clearly unintended.”

Over at Moriches Dog Grooming, proprietor Chase Prieto thinks the ban is a good idea. “This will be better for the animals and the pet owners,” he said. “The condition of the animals coming out of the puppy mills was not so great. People will get better pets this way and will also help with adoptions from the shelters.”

Continued on page 19

New York State Backs Measure Adding $20-30,000 to Each Newly Built House

ByDeborahWilliams

New York State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council has proposed a mandate for all of New York requiring automatic fire sprinkler systems to be installed in every newly built home. Contractors that do this work estimate between $2030,000 additional for every new home. The price may be more expensive depending on the region of the state.

At a time when the American economy is in rough shape, prices for everything are high, and everyone is complaining that housing costs to rent or own are “too damn high,” adding $30,000

of additional cost to each new house built seems a bad idea on every front.

The New York State Builders Association says this mandate will increase the cost of building a home at a time when skyrocketing construction costs continue to make it more difficult to build and drive up the costs for homebuyers.

“Don’t forget this state is in a housing affordability crisis,”

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt said. “Yet rather than search for common sense solutions that work for New Yorkers, unelected Albany bureaucrats are pushing another mandate

that will put the opportunity of homeownership in this state even further out of reach. There is already an option to include sprinklers in homes, but the truth is most homeowners opt against it because it breaks their budget. This mandate serves no purpose other than to drive up costs and remove consumer choice.”

The sprinkler system requirement would apply to all areas of the house except for small closets, bathrooms, attics, and crawl spaces. The system would need to have a temperature sensitivity range of 135 degrees to 225 degrees

depending on the distance from a potential heat source such as an oven.

This mandate would be a big change. Since 2014, state law has required that buyers of new one and two-story homes be informed about the costs of installing automatic sprinklers before they sign a contract and the buyer can make a choice.

In addition to the requirement of full-house sprinkler systems for new homes, the building code change would also require the installation of sprinkler systems if an addition is made to the home that creates a third story or if an attic is rehabbed to

make it into a usable living space.

“We need to tell Democrats in Albany enough is enough, I am calling on taxpayers to make their voices heard and sign this petition, calling on the state to strongly reconsider this mandate and the effect it will have on New Yorkers and new construction,” Ortt said.

The next meeting of the state’s Fire Prevention and Building Code Council meeting is on Dec. 6th. If you want to weigh in on this issue, contact the Council directly at (518) 4744073 or call your state senator or assemblyperson.

was the first state

Selling dogs and cats banned

Meta

ByDeborahWilliams

Pet Shops Sue to Stop the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act

A lawsuit has been filed claiming the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act set to go into effect across New York State on December 15 is unconstitutional. The Act bans the commercial selling of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet shops.

The lawsuit asks for an injunction to stop the law from going into effect. Besides claims of the law being unconstitutional, opponents say it also does nothing to stop puppy mills. Reputable dealers will be punished and driven out of business while puppy mills will still exist under the radar and not be hampered one bit.

One thing all sides have in common is wanting the best conditions for the animals. Those opposed to the law want sensible regulations that also don’t kick the legs out from under small businesses.

The lawsuit, filed by Jonathan Gill of Creedon & Gill P.C. out of Northport represents four pet stores, and one store owner claims the law violates the constitution because it is not a “rational means” to achieve a “legitimate legislative purpose. The plaintiffs are from Suffolk, Nassau, Kings, and Bronx counties.

Violations of the NY and US Constitution Due Process and

Equal Protection clauses are at issue as well as violations of the US Constitution under the Dormant Commerce Clause which involves interstate commerce. Many breeders that sell to NY are out of state.

Joe Burns, partner at Holtzman Vogel, weighed in saying, “The plaintiffs make some interesting arguments, but it’s always an uphill battle when you’re trying to have a statute held to be unconstitutional. Animal lovers around the nation will undoubtedly keep an eye on this case.”

Gill said, “The argument for due process and equal protection is that you are, you're taking away basic economic liberty from someone without any rational basis to do so. Everyone wants to eradicate puppy mills. Instead of going after the puppy mills, instead of ramping up enforcement through the state and federal departments of agriculture, which already inspect and regulate and license and keep a really tight leash on these breeders, these outof-state breeders, instead of just ramping up your enforcement efforts, you're going to go to the next level and outlaw a totally legitimate retail industry that that's already one of the most heavily regulated industries in the state.”

It is not just the businesses that close and the employees

that lose their income and health benefits. The State loses valuable tax revenue and the community loses what are often generational brick-and-mortar businesses that participate in the local festivals, and sponsorships of youth activities.

Gill said, “This is a legitimate industry. The state shouldn't tell someone who has been in business for decades that they should just pivot and sell something else when it's wrongfully being taken away from them.”

All kinds of things are banned and for the most part, bans do not eradicate the banned activity. They drive it underground. Heroin, fentanyl, child pornography, and dog fighting, are all banned

and they also all thrive in an underground market. Though puppy mills are a different level of criminality, a ban will have the same result – plenty of puppy milltype operations will still operate.

“It just drives a black market. Puppy mills will still exist only they'll be driven further underground and consumers won't, will have less of a choice of a legitimate healthy pet,” says Gill.

New York has a natural experiment to look at with regard to bans like this and yet they seem to have done no research at all on what the effects would be.

Gill pointed to California which “passed the almost identical

law two years ago. We have an opportunity to look at what happened in California over two years, fast forward two years. The consequences of that law were that 95% of the pet stores went out of business within a very short period of time.”

There was a “350% increase in puppy mill abuse because you take a legitimate retail industry like pet stores and puppy sales, and you take away their ability to do what they have been doing for a long time without any problems. Shelters can only provide four or five percent of the purebreds that people want in this country,” said Gill.

Not only does it make no sense at all to take away the choices of people to have the pet that they want in a safe and humane way, but the law does nothing to eliminate dodgy breeders.

“With the 2025 state legislative session beginning in only a few weeks, it’s certainly possible that state lawmakers amend the existing law to address some of the concerns raised by pet store owners,” added Burns.

This all-or-nothing approach is typical of New York legislators who routinely make law without thinking about whether the law will accomplish the intended goal and who will get hurt in the process.

Lawmaker Files a Bill to Stop the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act

ByDeborahWilliams

New York’s Puppy Mill Pipeline Act is set to go into effect December 15 and many are now having second thoughts about its implementation. No one disagrees that puppy mills and other nefarious pet dealers should be put out of business, but bans on anything often have unintended circumstances and Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R,C-Riverhead) certainly thinks this is the case with this law.

Assemblywoman Giglio voted for the bill back in 2022 but now has serious reservations. She believes that not only will the law not put much of a dent into the puppy mill pipeline, but it will also harm local pet shops in a way that was not intended, and not well understood when the original bill was presented to the legislature.

Giglio asked Governor Kathy Hochul to delay the implementation of the law so that additional conversations and considerations could be had. No one is in favor of the harsh and cruel conditions of puppy mills and at the same time no one wants reputable pet shops to be punished when they operate above board and have done so

without issue for decades.

Giglio said, “This wellintentioned bill" ignores the majority of pet shops that run their businesses with "the strictest standards for sourcing their animals."

Although the new law does allow pet shops to charge pet adoption organizations rent to operate within their pet shops, owners do not think the revenue from charges to adoption agencies will come close to what is generated from operating

as they do now. Margins are already close and rents are high. Many pet shops see shuttered businesses in their future.

“I'm getting a bit of a bad rap from some because people are saying I don't want to shut down puppy mills and that couldn't be further from the truth. It goes without saying that those bad actor pet dealers need to be shut down,” Giglio said. “Pet stores are already highly regulated in New York State and I think creating conditions where locally owned

pet shops will be forced to close creates a situation where the puppy mill pipeline will thrive. People will have no alternative other than to go online and order a dog from some unknown third party.”

Giglio was clear that a blanket ban on pet sales in reputable shops would put their employees out of work as generational businesses go dark. She said another fear is that “when people start buying pets online they're going to find out that the pet is sick and they're not going to have the money to take care of the dog. People who bought a dog unknowingly from a puppy mill are going to wind up surrendering these pets to shelters that are already overtaxed.

In response to the recently passed law, Giglio reintroduced an alternative piece of legislation she had sponsored in 2022 to amend the education law, the agriculture and markets law, and the general business law (A.6560-A of 2021-2022). She said, “This bill takes a balanced approach to animal welfare by focusing on transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. It requires veterinarians to disclose the cause of death for certain

companion animals, authorizes inspections of pet dealers’ facilities following certain animal deaths, and mandates the Department of Agriculture and Markets develop a public rating system for pet dealers.

Giglio’s bill also seeks to protect consumers by requiring pet dealers to reimburse them if an animal dies within six months of purchase.

“At first glance, the idea of preventing the sale of animals bred in inhumane conditions sounds like a step in the right direction, and for many of us who care deeply about animal welfare, it seems like a win. Our local pet stores are integral to our community, providing jobs, education, and support for responsible pet ownership. No one, least of all pet store owners, wants to see animals suffer unsanitary, overcrowded conditions.

The proposed legislation takes a one-size-fits-all approach that doesn’t reflect the dedication many pet stores have to safe and humane practices. We need legislation like A.6560-A (202122) to address unlawful breeding practices without penalizing our hardworking small business owners and their employees.

Lawsuit filed against Puppy Mill Pipeline Act

Credit: Meta AI

New law regulating pet sales scheduled to begin December 15th

Credit: Meta AI

STATE

ByRobertChartuk

Domestic Terrorism Hits Home: Zeldin Targeted by Bomb Threat

Domestic terror hit close to home when a bomb threat was directed at former Congressman Lee Zeldin, a nominee for a top appointment in the Trump Administration. The scare comes as the incoming President reported “violent, unAmerican threats” to the lives of his other prospective cabinet members and those who live with them.

“A pipe bomb threat targeting me and my family at our home today was sent in with a proPalestinian themed message,” Zeldin said in a statement. “My family and I were not home at the time and are safe. We are working with law enforcement to learn more as this situation develops. We are thankful for the swift actions taken by local officers to keep our family, neighbors, and local community secure.”

Investigators descended on Zeldin’s Shirley neighborhood looking for clues to the possible terrorist act and has asked the public for help. Anyone who has information concerning the threat or may have seen

anything suspicious, are urged to contact Detective Jesse Zuckerman at jessezuckerman@ suffolkcountyny.gov.

The attacks on the President’s team ranged from bomb threats to “swatting,” a form of terrorism where hoax calls are made to provoke an armed law enforcement response to the target’s location.

Zeldin, who’s been tapped to run the Environmental Protection Agency, is not the only New Yorker under attack. Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump’s pick for Ambassador to the United Nations, released the following statement from her campaign about being targeted:

“This morning, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, her husband, and their threeyear-old son were driving home to Saratoga County from Washington for Thanksgiving when they were informed of a bomb threat to their residence. New York State, County law enforcement, and U.S. Capitol Police responded immediately with the highest levels of professionalism. We

are incredibly appreciative of the extraordinary dedication of law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe 24/7.”

It was reported that Brooke Rollins, Trump’s choice for agriculture secretary, was also targeted, as were CIA director nominee John Ratcliffe, and Pete Hegseth, the nominee for secretary of defense.

Zeldin is no stranger to violence during his long record of service. The Army veteran had bullets fly into his house, missing his daughters inside, while he was running for governor. Later, during a campaign in which he narrowly lost to Gov. Kathy Hochul, Zeldin was accosted by a knife-wielding assailant, who he quickly subdued. The GOP candidate’s near victory in the heavily Democrat New York was attributed, in part, to his pro-law enforcement, anti-crime stance.

“President Trump and the transition are focused on doing the work of uniting our nation by ensuring a safe and prosperous future,” stated Karoline Leavitt, Trump-Vance transition spokeswoman. “With

President Trump as our example, dangerous acts of intimidation and violence will not deter us.”

The threats of violence come as Trump’s opponents have gone all out to paint him as a “threat to Democracy” and call him a Nazi in the vein of Adolph Hitler. The charged rhetoric has been blamed for inciting two assassination attempts against the president and a huge schism between the majority of Americans who swept him back into office and those who hate him.

The Mainstream Media, a culprit in dividing the nation against Trump, has yet to acknowledge that the attacks on his nominees are terror threats.

“How is this not being called an act of domestic terrorism?” wondered Alexandra Datig, a political consultant and conservative commentator, who noted that the Biden Administration deemed citizens protesting at school board meetings and abortion clinics as domestic terrorists.

New York is Overdosing on Taxpayer-Sponsored Medicaid

ByDeborahWilliams

New York State taxpayers are being bled dry by the State’s bloated Medicaid and Essential health care plans. These plans cost the taxpayer an extra $20 billion and some are likely fraudulent expenses.

Shockingly, according to Empire Center, “The share of Medicaid costs financed by state taxpayers has jumped by 53 percent over the past five years and currently consumes about 28 percent of all state operating funds.”

The Empire Center calls it "Medicaid Overdose." Their new report reveals astonishing and unsustainable numbers showing that while Medicaid enrollment has grown nationwide over the past decade, New York has taken it to levels not seen in any other state.

“New York provides Medicaid and Medicaid-like health coverage to 44 percent of its population, which is 15 points higher than a decade ago and seven points above any other state. Within New York City, a remarkable 60 percent of residents are enrolled in statesponsored insurance.”

That translates to over 8.8 million people in New York with health insurance entirely covered by the taxpayer. New York expanded Medicaid-like coverage to those with incomes up to 250

percent of the federal poverty level — the highest income threshold in the United States.

Empire Center says, “The overuse of taxpayer-funded insurance harms the state in multiple ways. Most obvious is the added burden on taxpayers. Even assuming most of the 3 million excess enrollees are non-disabled adults and children, they could be costing Medicaid $20 billion or more per year.”

“About 5.5 million New Yorkers have incomes low enough to meet the standard eligibility limits for Medicaid or the Essential Plan. Yet enrollment in the two programs stands at about 8.5 million –pointing to a surplus of 3 million. In other words, roughly one-third of the people receiving taxpayerfunded coverage from New York appear to be earning too much to qualify,” says the report.

Three million people who do not meet even the most generous income threshold in the country are enrolled at taxpayer expense at a time when inflation has hit working families brutally over the past four years under the BidenHarris administration.

The report points to emergency rules during COVID-19 as the primary cause Medicaid rolls temporarily swelled.

Empire Center says, “Other states have developed similar enrollment

surpluses in recent years, but New York’s is proportionally the largest.”

Besides the overly generous income thresholds for enrollment, two other huge factors led to the bleeding of resources. The program known as the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program allows people to choose a relative or friend to take care of them and get paid through Medicaid and rampant use of savvy lawyers to use the nuances of estate planning that allow the wealthy to qualify for Medicaid long-term care coverage while protecting their wealth.

Abuses in both of these programs are widespread and are not sustainable. They shouldn't be accepted even if money did grow on trees. Medicaid is designed to help people temporarily in financial hardship or for people who cannot help themselves. It is not meant to be extra income for a relative or to subsidize the wealthy.

Empire Center says there is an enormous added burden on the taxpayer. “Even assuming most of the 3 million excess enrollees are non-disabled adults and children, they could be costing Medicaid $20 billion or more per year. That expense would be roughly split

between the state and federal governments, and New Yorkers pay taxes to both.”

The to-do list for New York State’s government is clear. The massive over — enrollments in the state’s Medicaid program have to be dealt with — and soon. The governor and legislature should see that they have allowed this program to become completely out of control.

What does New York need to do? First, tighten eligibility rules then strengthen enforcement. Empire Center says New York’s excessive taxes and regulations make commercial insurance unaffordable for many. New York needs to roll back taxes and regulations paving the way for more to afford private insurance. Massive subsidies in Medicaid coupled with an unaffordable private insurance market make for a real mess for the taxpayer and the person wanting to have health coverage.

Empire Center gives New York good advice on how to be better stewards of our tax dollars while still providing for those in need. “New York should stop abusing Medicaid as a catch-all insurance plan for almost half the state’s population. Instead, it should refocus the program on its original and most important purpose, which is to provide care for those who cannot help themselves.”

EPA nominee Lee Zeldin and his wife, Diana, with President Trump.

Credit: @LeeZeldin

Credit: Meta AI

Wasting taxpayer money on those who should not be getting Medicaid

New York Expands Life-Saving "Gio's Law" to Include Police Carrying EpiPens

ByRobertChartuk

In a significant step forward for public safety, an amendment to New York’s “Gio’s Law” now enables police officers in Nassau and Suffolk counties to carry EpiPens, critical devices for saving people from lifethreatening allergic reactions. The expansion will equip first responders, who often arrive before paramedics, with the tools needed to save lives during anaphylactic emergencies.

EpiPens are auto-injectors pre-filled with epinephrine, a medication that quickly reverses severe allergic reactions, known

as anaphylaxis. These reactions can be triggered by allergens such as peanuts, bee stings, or certain medications. Epinephrine works by reducing throat swelling, relaxing airway muscles, and improving breathing, providing vital time for patients to seek further medical care.

The law is named for Giovanni Cipriano, a 14-year-old boy from Suffolk who tragically passed away in 2013 after eating trail mix containing a peanut product. His mother, Georgina Cornago, reported that she initially tried antihistamines to treat the reaction and then struggled to locate his EpiPen. By

WAY

BY REV. FREDERICK MILLER, PH.D.

Going back to World War I, many of our military in combat suffered what was called “shell shock.” Although science and medicine had made considerable advances, at the time of the war they were still in the dark about this seemingly "new" disorder that was plaguing our military. Almost from the start of the war soldiers in combat began exhibiting signs of anxiety, dizziness, tremors and hypersensitivity to noise. These ailments were attributed to neurological damage caused by artillery fire. Experts believed that the concussion of enemy artillery bursts near or in the trenches where the soldiers were caused physical damage to the brain and nervous systems of soldiers. They called it “shell shock.” In 1916, as many as 40 percent of all casualties were attributed to suffering from this. The condition became controversial with many in the

the time they reached a hospital, Giovanni had succumbed to anaphylaxis.

In 2019, Gio’s Law was introduced to ensure first responders could carry and administer EpiPens, but its application was limited by population-based exclusions affecting certain counties. Recent legislative changes pushed by State Senator Dean Murray and Assemblyman Joe DeStefano have rectified this, allowing broader implementation across Long Island.

Senator Murray emphasized that police often arrive first at emergency scenes, making the availability of EpiPens in patrol cars crucial. “This is about saving lives and ensuring no family has to endure a loss like Giovanni’s,” he stated. Assemblyman Joe DeStefano echoed these sentiments, calling the devices a “game-changer” in public health.

Suffolk County has already adopted the amended law, and Nassau County is expected to follow suit. Gordon Heights Fire Chief and EMT Moonee Rivers praised the initiative,

noting that equipping police officers with EpiPens ensures timely intervention during critical minutes that can mean the difference between life and death.

“This legislation underscores the importance of preparedness and reflects a community’s determination to prevent further tragedies like Giovanni’s,” DeStefano stated. “Through Gio’s Law, New York is setting a precedent for allergy emergency response, potentially inspiring similar measures nationwide.”

Mixed Messages on Puppy Mill...

Continued from page 16

Pet owner Christina Salaway agreed. “Hopefully, this will stop the puppy mills. Some of the stories you hear about them are terrible. It will be better for the owners if the pets come from a documented source,” the East Moriches resident said.

Another pet owner, Desiree Glock of Centereach, voiced concern over the state ban encouraging a black market where information about the pets won’t be as reliable. “Where do you go if you have a grievance? At least with the way it is now, you can go back

to the pet store to complain. You have options. You can go to the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Affairs. If you buy a pet privately and something goes wrong, the options are very limited,” Glock said.

“They really need to put an end to the puppy mills,” commented dog stylist Debbie Mangione of Center Moriches. “Plus, it will help with adoptions, which is a good thing.

Giglio was not convinced. “We in New York have a chance to observe and learn from California's failure, for

the benefit of the pets we wish to protect, and for the benefit of our taxpaying residents,” she said in a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul asking for a delay on the ban. “Other unintended consequences include individuals who are personally liable for lease obligations for their pet shops. Once those businesses are forced to close, these individuals will still be liable for hundreds of thousands of dollars in lease payments. This wasn't thought through, and if it was, the devastating impact this will have on our private business owners wasn't considered.”

Traumatic Brain Injury In Veterans, Part I

military’s upper echelons rejecting it outright as an excuse. By 1917, frustrated generals went so far as to ban all diagnoses of shell shock and began to censor all references to it in official reports as well as the media.

Shortly after the war, a New Jersey pathologist drew attention to a symptom complex that affected professional boxers, “punch drunk,” a condition well known to boxing enthusiasts that appeared to result from repeated sub-lethal blows to the head. The symptoms were similar to those of World War I personnel who claimed to suffer from shell shock. Further research revealed that explosive blasts caused shock waves that either passed directly through the skull or entered the body, not just the head. It was transmitted into the chest or abdominal cavities and surges to the brain by way of the bodie’s vasculature. Once in the skull, the

waves advance through the brain at the speed of sound, passing through both fluid and matter, which respond differently to the wave’s properties bruising the brain. The blast waves seem to cause damage at the boundaries of different

structures, such as between brain matter and cerebrospinal fluids and between gray and white brain matter. The shock waves cause the brain to strike against the skull causing the damage. This damage is also similar to the concussions

of football players. The term was classified as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

The use of explosive materials has increased in wars since World War I. The recent Iran and Afghanistan wars used land mines, car bombs and bombs attached to people and children as their major weapons. Now, 11 to 20 percent of all veterans have these symptoms. The U.S. Department of Defense estimates that tens of thousands of veterans and military service members deployed in Iran and Afghanistan have sustained a TBI. However, even though TBI is a concussion of the brain and more serious than a flesh wound, those suffering TBI are denied the Purple Heart Medal. Please help us change that problem and get them the medal they deserve. We need to ask our congress to review this problem and award those veterans the medal they deserve.

Life-saving EpiPens

Credit: Staff Image

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

Currently in New York state, the imposition of a look-back only applies to those applying for nursing home Medicaid. As of now, if applying for Community Medicaid, no look-back will apply. While there was a law passed in 2020 placing a 30-month look-back on the Community Medicaid program, for various reasons this has not yet been implemented in New York state.

Making sense of the complicated laws, rules and regulations surrounding an application for long-term care (LTC) Medicaid can be daunting. Part of the confusion comes from a misunderstanding about the two different types of LTC Medicaid coverage. Within eligibility comes the concept of a “look-back.”

Community Medicaid is the

program that covers, among other services, home health aide coverage in the home. Institutional Medicaid covers skilled nursing facility services, i.e. nursing homes.

The look-back is used by the Medicaid program to determine if any assets were given away prior to applying for the program for the purpose of achieving eligibility. The words “transfers” and “gifts” are commonly used. This can include transfer of assets to a Medicaid asset protection trust, gifts to friends and family, and any other use of your funds that is not for the benefit of you or your spouse. Buying yourself a new car or spending on a personal purchase will not be penalized.

The current look-back is 60 months (5 years) for nursing home Medicaid. This means that you will be penalized for transfers made by you or your

LIBRARY LIVING

BY TARA D’AMATO

Assistant Library Director

What is a Medicaid “Look-Back”?

spouse during the five years preceding an application by either one of you for nursing home Medicaid. The penalty is based on a legal presumption that the assets were given away to qualify you for the program. However, depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding

Read Newspapers from Around the World with PressReader

The library has access to a great newspaper collection called Pressreader. This is a news and magazine online subscription that is the best place to read thousands of newspapers and magazines from around the globe, in full color and in over 60 languages. Library users get access to more than 7,000 of the world's top publications as soon as they're available on shelves, through the library’s website. You can read newspapers and magazines in their original format and language on your browser, through your phone, or by downloading the app. All you need is your library card barcode number. To start, have your library card handy and open your web browser to: https://www. communitylibrary.org/ books-movies-music/ digital-collection/digitalmagazines/ Pressreader lets you read newspapers like USA Today, The NY Post, The Boston Globe, The Globe and Mail, the Guardian and more. Over 150 countries’ newspapers can be found in PressReader from Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America. With not just news articles but all the features, including crossword puzzles. Magazines include top titles like Rolling

Stone, Newsweek, Good Housekeeping, Vogue, Readers Digest and Forbes. But then there’s an amazing depth of specialty titles you’d only find in better bookstores or newsstands. Hobby titles like Golf Digest, PC Gamer, Family Handyman, Modern Dog, Practical Boat Owner, Birds and Blooms, Guitarist, Beer and Brewing and many more are sure to entice a second look. You can even download as many titles as you like and carry them on your own personal devices even after you walk out the library door. Downloaded publications never expire and remain saved until you decide to delete them. For help using Pressreader, call the library Reference and Adult Services staff at (631)399-1511 or stop by the nearest branch of your Community Library soon!

the transfer, a penalty may be avoided in some cases.

On Long Island, a one-month penalty will be assessed for every $14,668 that you transfer within the look-back. For example, if $75,000 is transferred during the 5 years preceding an application

ByTomBarton

The Bayport-Blue Point sister duo of Emilia and Evangelina Romano felt heartbreak last season and used that fuel to capture this years Suffolk County doubles championship.

A season ago the team lost the New York State Championship to Matilda Buchen & Julia Stabile of Westhampton Beach in the finals.

This year they took on Westhampton Beach again, but Buchen had a new partner in Ava Borruso.

Remembering the heartbreak was last season the Romano sisters looked even more determined and on their game as they won with a 6-3 and 6-4 victory.

From the very beginning you could see that they had a well designed game plan and executed it to perfection. The team controlled the pace and later explained their strategy about playing into each others strengths.

for institutional Medicaid, there would be a 5.11-month penalty assessed. This is the amount of time for which there would be no coverage from Medicaid and the patient would need to privately pay for the facility.

Whether or not planning was done in advance, there are tools that can be used to preserve some assets. While we do not currently have a look-back for community Medicaid, it may be on the horizon, so the lookback should be considered in any estate planning with a view towards long-term care.

Britt Burner, Esq. is a Partner 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.

The Romanos will now head to the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Individual Championships at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Buchen & Borruso will also be going to the event we well.

Credit: Chaiwat Rattanang | Dreamstime.com

Teens

Unless otherwise noted, all programs are for teens in grades 6 through 12.

Register for programs three easy ways: In person, online at w ww.communitylibrary.org or contact the Teen Reference Desk at 631-399-1511 Ext. 2015 for the Moriches Branch, Ext. 1029 for the Mastic Beach Branch or Ext. 2025 for the Main Building.

Fun and Games

Pin Pals

Pin Pals

Earn a pin each time you attend a teen program! You can also trade pins with teen staff while in the library. Use them to decorate your backpack or anything you want!

Earn a pin each time you attend a teen program! You can also trade pins with teen staff while in the library. Use them to decorate your backpack or anything you want!

Kahoot! Trivia - Virtual

Kahoot! Trivia - Virtual

Mondays, December 2 & 16 3:00 p.m.

Mondays, December 2 & 16 3:00 p.m.

Head on over to our Discord or Instagram and test your knowledge of various trivia topics! You have until Friday to participate.

D&D: Winter Campaign

Head on over to our Discord or Instagram and test your knowledge of various trivia topics! You have until Friday to participate.

D&D: Winter Campaign

Mondays, December 2, 16, 30; January 13, 27, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Mondays, December 2, 16, 30; January 13, 27, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.

Registration is open.

Registration is open.

Join Charlie, Teen Services Librarian, for a unique, custom-made D&D adventure that will span 5 epic sessions! Character sheets and dice will be provided.

Join Charlie, Teen Services Librarian, for a unique, custom-made D&D adventure that will span 5 epic sessions! Character sheets and dice will be provided.

Tabletop Wednesdays

Tabletop Wednesdays

Wednesdays, December 4 & 18, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Wednesdays, December 4 & 18, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.

Registration begins 11/27.

Registration begins 11/27.

Sign up for tabletop gaming adventures designed just for teens! For seasoned players and newbies, a fun and inclusive space to explore various tabletop games.

Sign up for tabletop gaming adventures designed just for teens! For seasoned players and newbies, a fun and inclusive space to explore various tabletop games.

Retro Gaming

Retro Gaming

Wednesday, December 11, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 11, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Held at our Main Building.

Held at our Main Building.

Registration begins 11/27.

Registration begins 11/27.

Friday, December 20, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Friday, December 20, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.

Registration begins 12/6.

Registration begins 12/6.

Pretend it is the arcade days with some retro NES games on the Nintendo Switch! Eat snacks and try to get the highest score!

Mystery Video Game

Happening at the Fun and Games

Pretend it is the arcade days with some retro NES games on the Nintendo Switch! Eat snacks and try to get the highest score!

Entertainment

Entertainment

Anime & Superheroes

Anime & Superheroes

Mondays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Mondays, December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Held at our Moriches Branch.

Held at our Moriches Branch.

Registration is open. Japanese cartoons, a few Marvel moments, snacks and plenty of awesomeness. Register for each session.

Registration is open. Japanese cartoons, a few Marvel moments, snacks and plenty of awesomeness. Register for each session.

After Hours: Teen Takeover

After Hours: Teen Takeover

Friday, December 13, 5:45 – 8:00 p.m.

Friday, December 13, 5:45 – 8:00 p.m.

Held at our Main Building.

Held at our Main Building.

Registration begins 11/29.

Registration begins 11/29.

Attention teens! Come to an engaging evening filled with video games, art activities and whatever else all while eating pizza!

Attention teens! Come to an engaging evening filled with video games, art activities and whatever else all while eating pizza!

Movie Night:

Movie Night:

Home Alone on a Loop Tuesday, December 17

Home Alone on a Loop

Tuesday, December 17

2:30 – 8:30 p.m.

2:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Held at our Main Building. This is a drop-in program.

Held at our Main Building. This is a drop-in program.

Drop-in and watch the classic Home Alone, all night long! Popcorn will be served.

Drop-in and watch the classic Home Alone, all night long! Popcorn will be served.

Movie Night: Elf

Movie Night: Elf

Thursday, December 19

Thursday, December 19

7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Tournament

Mystery Video Game Tournament

Saturday, December 14, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 14, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Held at our Moriches Branch.

Held at our Moriches Branch.

Registration begins 11/30.

Registration begins 11/30.

Think you’re a video game master? Put your skills to the test, as you won’t know which game you’re playing until you arrive for the tournament! The overall winner earns themselves a $20 Nintendo eShop Card!

Think you’re a video game master? Put your skills to the test, as you won’t know which game you’re playing until you arrive for the tournament! The overall winner earns themselves a $20 Nintendo eShop Card!

Harry Potter Trivia Night

Harry Potter Trivia Night

Thursday, December 26, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 26, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Held at our Main Building.

Held at our Main Building.

Registration begins 12/12.

Registration begins 12/12.

Test your knowledge of the Harry Potter universe and win awesome prizes!

Test your knowledge of the Harry Potter universe and win awesome prizes!

7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Held at our Moriches Branch. Registration begins 12/5.

Held at our Moriches Branch.

Watch Elf and eat popcorn!

Registration begins 12/5. Watch Elf and eat popcorn!

Pop Culture Club

Pop Culture Club Thursday, December 19

Thursday, December 19

3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. Registration begins 12/5.

Join Mr. Casper for a watch party! Watch a variety of current movies/series and stay for a discussion over pizza.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. Registration begins 12/5. Join Mr. Casper for a watch party! Watch a variety of current movies/series and stay for a discussion over pizza.

Reading Buddies

Mondays & Tuesdays, 7:00 – 8:45 p.m.

Held at William Floyd High School.

Teens in grades 8 through 12 read with younger children during the Library’s ENL classes. Potential volunteers must fill out an application before attending. Applications can be picked up in the Teen Department at the Moriches or Mastic Beach branches. Two hour of community service will be given for each session. This is an on-going program.

Color A Smile

Throughout December

Held at our Moriches Branch. Registration is open. Pick up a packet of “Color A Smile” coloring sheets from the Moriches branch anytime in December. Color all 8 pages at home to earn 2 hours of community service. Return the pages on 12/5, 12/12, 12/19 between 1 and 9 pm or 12/26 between 5 and 9 pm to the Moriches branch.

Your Library Loves to Help

OMU

Wednesdays, December 11 & 18

7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. This is a drop-in program. A place where any teen can come down to discuss any topic they want in a judge-free atmosphere. Where they will feel accepted and appreciated for the differences that make them unique. It is a place where teens can speak about what is on their minds and any troubles that they come across in their lives as teens.

Let’s Talk

Community service is for students in grades 6 through 12 that need the hours for religious studies, honor society or graduation. Teens must have an MMSCL library card in good standing.

Cards for Hospitalized Kids

Wednesday, December 4, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Held at our Moriches Branch. Registration begins 11/27.

Monday, December 9, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. Registration begins 12/2.

Wednesday, December 11, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Held at our Moriches Branch.

Registration begins 12/4.

Earn one hour of community service by designing holiday cards for hospitalized kids.

Holiday Greeting Cards

Thursday, December 5

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Held at our Main Building. Registration begins 11/27.

Friday, December 6, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Held at the Moriches Branch. Registration begins 11/29. Make holiday cards that will bring cheer to seniors living in nursing homes.

Teen Advisory Board

Tuesday, December 10, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. Registration begins 12/3. Earn one hour of community service and improve the library by sharing your opinions.

Wednesdays, December 11 & 18

8:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. This is a drop-in program. A unique program where teens get to pick topics that are of concern to them that will be discussed among their peers in a judgement free and open atmosphere. They will have the opportunity to learn about topics that interest them and are important to teens in our current world. Snacks will be served for all attendees.

Visit with a Therapy Dog

Thursdays, December 5 & 12

4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Held at our Moriches Branch. This is a drop-in program. Drop-in to pet a therapy dog, tell a story or read a few pages of your favorite book.

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Suffolk

PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, Plaintiff

AGAINST

Lisa Vidal if living and if any be dead, any and all persons who are spouses, widows, grantees, mortgagees, lienor, heirs, devisees, distributees, or successors in interest of such of the above as may be dead, and their spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residences are unknown to Plaintiff, et al, Defendant

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated September 17, 2024 and entered on September 20, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on December 11, 2024 at 1:00 PM premises known as 119 Daisy Drive, Mastic Beach, NY 11951. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 979.00, BLOCK: 17.00, LOT: 005.000; District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $234,488.17 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 626282/2023.

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

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

John William Doyle, Referee

FRENKEL LAMBERT

WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP

53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706

L16098 - 11/13/2024, 11/20/2024, 11/27/2024 & 12/04/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Suffolk

US Bank National Association as Trustee for CMALT REMIC Series 2005-A1 - REMIC PassThrough Certificates Series 2005-A1, Plaintiff AGAINST

Nelson Medina, et al, Defendant

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated May 7, 2024 and entered on May 17, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on December 12, 2024 at 2:00 PM premises known as 17 Nadworny Lane, Stony Brook, NY 11790. 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: 247.00, BLOCK: 04.00, LOT: 009.003, District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,162,518.57 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 616581/2018.

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

Elyse Nicole Grasso, Referee

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

L16099 - 11/13/2024, 11/20/2024, 11/27/2024 & 12/04/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of CWALT, Inc., Alternative Loan Trust 2005-3CB, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 20053CB, Plaintiff AGAINST Fiorina Selesnick a/k/a Florina Selesnick, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure

and Sale duly entered March 14, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on December 16, 2024 at 12:30PM, premises known as 43 Morris Avenue, Patchogue, NY 11772. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being near Patchogue, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, Section: 894.00, Block: 03.00, Lot: 088.003. Approximate amount of judgment $350,035.53 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #601079/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the SUFFOLK County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2. nycourts.gov/Admin/oca. shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Only Bank or Certified check payable to the Referee will be accepted for the downpayment. No third party check or cash will be accepted. Michael Clancy, Esq., Referee McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC 420 Lexington Avenue-Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 21-01861NY 83329

L16105 - 11/13/2024, 11/20/2024, 11/27/2024 & 12/04/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURED TRUSTEE FOR NEW CENTURY HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2004-1, Pltf. vs. COLLEEN T. MURPHYGAZZO; et al, Defts. Index #615421/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Sept. 17, 2024, I will sell at public auction at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on December 18, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. premises k/a 25 Patchogue Street, Patchogue, NY 11772 a/k/a Section 19,

Block 4, Lot 53. Said property beginning at a point on the northerly side of Patchogue Street distant 358 ft. westerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of Patchogue Street and the westerly side of Cedar Avenue; running thence NW 90 ft.; running thence SW 49 ft. to the easterly side of a private road known as Willow Walk; running thence SE along the easterly side of Willow Walk 90 ft. to the northerly side of Patchogue Street 49 ft. to the point or place of beginning. Approximate amount of judgment is $117,123.07 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. ANNETTE EADERESTO, Referee. HILL WALLACK, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 261 Madison Avenue, 9th Fl. Ste 940, New York, NY 10016. File No. 17511-4340 - #101879

L16107 - 11/13/2024, 11/20/2024, 11/27/2024 & 12/04/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, A FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, A DIVISION OF WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS TRUSTEE FOR AND ON BEHALF OF KNOXVILLE 2012 TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. DAVID RUSSELL GUGGENHEIM A/K/A DAVID R. GUGGENHEIM A/K/A DAVID GUGGENHEIM, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 16, 2023 and an Order Extending Time to Calendar Foreclosure Sale duly entered on October 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on December 19, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., premises known as 381 Grace Street, Holbrook, NY 11741. All

that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Holbrook, Town of Islip, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0500, Section 152.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 021.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $537,835.53 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613334/2018. Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee

Taroff & Taitz, LLP, Attorneys at Law, 630 Johnson Avenue, Suite 105, Bohemia, NY 11716, Attorneys for Plaintiff

L16109 - 11/20/2024, 11/27/2024, 12/04/2024 & 12/11/2024

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premises RestaurantLiquor License, NYS Application ID NA-034024-144347 has been applied for by Tross Inc d/b/a Albatross to sell beer, wine, cider and liquor at retail in an on-premises RestaurantLiquor establishment. For on premise consumption under the ABC law at 320 Bay Walk Ocean Beach NY 11770.

L16112 - 11/27/2024 & 12/04/2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Donna Bruno, 17 North Bernstein Boulevard, Manorville, New York 11949, has made an application to the Brookhaven Town Board, acting as the Planning Board, for approval of a relief of covenant. This proposal is known as Donna Bruno, located on the Northeast corner of North Bernstein Boulevard and Ashley Circle, Manorville, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York and described as follows:

NORTH: Now or formerly RICHARD AND AMY ANDERSON.;

WEST: Now or formerly INDEPENDENT GROUP HOMELIVING PROGRAM, INC.;

SOUTH: ASHLEY CIRCLE; EAST: Now or formerly NICOLAS AND ALEXANDRA DALEO.

Notice is hereby given that the Town of Brookhaven Planning Board will hold a public hearing in the Town Hall 2nd floor auditorium, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 3:00 P.M., when adjacent property owners and/or others interested in any way in the proposal may appear before the Board to be heard.

A more detailed diagram of the subject property shall be made available virtually at https://www. brookhavenny.gov/1159/ Meetings

At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard. Anyone interested in submitting written comments to the Board may also do so via email at emccallion@brookhavenny. gov.

DATED: November 8, 2024

L16113-12/4/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC SEASONED CREDIT RISK TRANSFER TRUST, SERIES 2019-2, Pltf. vs. RONALD KOCSI JR, et al, Defts. Index #205792/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered June 27, 2024, I will sell at public auction at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on January 8, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. premises k/a 464 Carnation Drive, Shirley, NY 11967 a/k/a District 0200, Section 615.00, Block 05.00, Lot 017.00. Approximate amount of judgment is $253,630.60 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. STEVEN LOSQUADRO, Referee. MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP,

Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., Ste. 224, Syosset, NY 11791. #101941

L16114 - 12/4/2024, 12/11/2024, 12/18/2024 & 12/25/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK

TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE CHALET SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JENNIFER WAGNERAUERBECK A/K/A J.D. WAGNER-AUERBECK A/K/A JENNIFER W. AUERBECK A/K/A JENNIFER WAGNER, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 3, 2023 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on April 30, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill,

Farmingville, NY 11738 on January 7, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., premises known as 24 Golden Gate Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. 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 980.30, Block 01.00 and Lot 032.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $260,227.18 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616260/2021.

John Bennett, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 203392-1

L16115 - 12/4/2024, 12/11/2024, 12/18/2024 & 12/25/2024

NOTICE OF SALE

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 January 3, 2025 at 11:00AM, 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: November 18, 2024 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

L16116 - 12/4/2024, 12/11/2024, 12/18/2024 & 12/25/2024

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING AND REGULAR MEETINGS FOR JANUARY, 2025 FOR THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE MIDDLE ISLAND FIRE DISTRICT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of

Fire Commissioners of the Middle Island Fire District in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, will hold its Organizational meeting on Thursday, January09,20256:00P.M. at the District Office Building of the Middle Island Fire District, 195 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, New York. The First Regular meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Middle Island Fire District for the calendar year 2025, shall be held on Thursday,January09,2025, immediately following the Organizational Meeting at the District Office Building, 195 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, New York. NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN, that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Middle Island Fire District will hold a Board meeting on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. at the District Office Building, 195 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, New York.

Dated: Middle Island, New

York

November 20, 2024

By Order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Middle Island Fire District Chrissy Rosenfeld, District Secretary

L16117-12/4/2024

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BY TOM BARTON

Coming into the 2024-2025 college basketball season there were a few sure things in life. Death, taxes, and apparently UConn covering. For sports bettors who backed Hurley and the Huskies it was all green, but this is a new year and that gravy train has seemingly stopped.

Two-time defending NCAA champions were not just dominant on the court as far as winning was concerned, but they were champions in their own right for sports bettors for years. Since Danny Hurley took over as coach in 2018 this team has been a covering machine cashing 61.3% (120-75-4) of the time. This is during a time where no other team has even crossed 60%. Their NCAA tournament runs were a thing of legend in the sports betting community. It seemed that no matter how high the book

makers put the number that UConn was going to cover.

The Huskies covered all 12 of their games over the past two seasons en route to their two national titles. For a favorite, that is unheard of, and to do it two years in a row was simply unbelievable.

That gravy train has come to a complete stop this year, though. It started like the same old Huskies blowing out their first four opponents by 30-plus points, but not only did the favorite Huskies fail to cover the next game, they lost outright to Memphis in overtime. Then they lost the next game as almost double digit favorites, and then a third loss in a row in another heavy favorite game. Dan Hurley's boys have now lost as many games this season as they did all last year during their title run.

Has The Gravy Train Stopped?

So, as sports bettors, what do we do? It seems like it's fade UConn time. The Huskies won't get the corrected line moves that most schools would get because of a three-game losing streak, instead this team will still have inflated lines because of what they have done for years. Sure, there will be cupcakes games and 30-plus blowouts this season, but they have a brutal schedule in conference, but even out of conference they have Baylor, Texas, and Gonzaga the next three games. If they turn their season around and win and cover the next three games, bettors will be pounding the Huskies and think of their non-covering week as a blip on the radar, and sports books will keep pumping the line up. But if they drop those three big games, don't expect much value from UConn. The gravy train has ended for the Huskies, but

there is always money to be made, it just might be time to take the other side.

SPORTS Ducks Name Long Islander to 25th Team

ByTomBarton

A Long Island native has just been named to the Long Island Ducks 25th Anniversary Team. Levittown’s own Randy Leek has been chosen as the fourth member of the celebratory team.

The former pitcher, Leek spent four seasons with the Ducks from 2007 to 2010. With the Ducks, Leek helped them reach the playoffs in three of those years. He finished his career with a 40-23 record to go along with his impressive 3.78 ERA, he had six complete games, three shutouts, and 356 strikeouts over 587.1 innings pitched across 93

games (91 starts).

The lefty held the record for the team’s totals for wins, innings pitched, strikeouts and starts until they were surpassed by fellow 25th Anniversary Team selection John Brownell.

Leek was named to the Atlantic League All-Star Game twice in 2008 and 2010. He was the Liberty Division’s starting pitcher for the 2010 All-Star Game, which was played on Long Island, and threw two perfect innings.

Leek currently lives in Levittown, NY, and owns a baseball training facility with

fellow Ducks alumni Kevin Haverbusch and Rob Cafiero. He also coaches the Jonas E. Salk Middle School baseball team.

Every week throughout the offseason leading up to Opening Night of the 2025 campaign, the Ducks will unveil a new member of the franchise’s 25th Anniversary Team. Players were chosen based on their contributions to the organization, including onfield accomplishments, longevity with the franchise, impact on their professional playing career and involvement with the Long Island community.

Smithtown Students Take a Walk Around MetLife

ByTomBarton

The sports marketing classes from Smithtown High School East and West got an experience they will never forget this week.

The students participated in the Sports Business Day sponsored by the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.

The Jets welcomed in the students who were guided

through different areas of the stadium and heard from business executives in sales, marketing, social media and public relations. This was a chance for the students to get some real life insight from the people on the ground that are in the jobs themselves. The students were taught about their experiences from Jets executives and were able to network with other schools

It's a Bet

With New Yorkers setting a new record in the month of October betting on sports, it should come as no surprise that making the game "a little more interesting" appeals to the masses.

This week, Long Island town supervisors Dan Panico of Brookhaven and Joseph Saladino of Oyster Bay made a friendly bet. The bet between the two will be on the outcome of the Division 1 Long Island Football championship between William Floyd and Massapequa high schools taking place this Saturday at Stony Brook University.

Panico started the discussion

on Facebook proposing that if William Floyd wins the game, Saladino will make a donation to the charity of his choice. He also requested that Saladino treat him to All-American, a hamburger place in Massapequa that is renowned as being one of the best in the entire country. If Massapequa wins, Panico said he will donate to a charity of Saladino’s choice and they will have lunch at the famous Mama Lisa Restaurant in Mastic.

Often politicians of different areas have these friendly bets and it's great that donations will go to a good cause no matter who wins this week.

Lou Carnesecca Passes Away

ByTomBarton

from across the tristate area. The tour included being able to walk onto the the field, to touring the press boxes and they were even able to take a walk through the locker room.

Sports marketing is an elective course for ninth12th grade students in the Smithtown School of Business in the Career and Technical Education Department.

Legendary St. John’s head coach Lou Carnesecca passed away this week at 99 years old.

Carnesecca was one of the faces of the original Big East conference and a New York legend. You cannot tell the story of college basketball without speaking about Lou and his big personality, his flamboyant sweaters, but most of all his winning ways.

Carnesecca coached St. John’s for 24 seasons, stopping

there two different times in his career. He coached St. John’s to 18 seasons of at least 20 wins, and 18 NCAA Tournament appearances. He finished with a 526-200 record and had 30-win seasons in 1985 and 1986. He won the coach of the year three times and entered the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992, the year he retired.

St. John's dedicated the arena in his name and a statue of him was unveiled before the 2021-22 season.

Randy Leek

Credit: Long Island Ducks

ByTomBarton

Credit: @Dan Panico | Facebook

Credit: @fieldof68 | X Dan Panico Lou Carnesecca

Credit: Jamie Stuart

Smithtown Central School District sports marketing students

SPORTS Longwood Takes Home 11 Honors

ByTomBarton

Longwood finished the season 8-2 and was led by a dynamic defense. Coach Kluber's defense held seven teams to 15 points or less, including two shutouts. Likewise the offense was just as impressive under Kluber scoring 30-plus points in seven games, and they put up at least four touchdowns in all but one game this season.

The Lions also have 11 varsity

football players being recognized for prestigious All-County and All-Division honors for their exceptional performance this season.

All County honors went to Daniel Blank, Mike Warren, Kaden Reid, and Clint Chichester. They were joined in receiving honors with All Division First team members Ryan Mandaro, Madison Murrell, Davien Benjamin-Sheffey, and Anthony Fraser while Ryan Morrissey, Edward Wesche, Jordan Bennett made All Division second team.

Swim & Dive Team are State Champs

Smithtown-Hauppauge

on Nov. 23

ByTomBarton

The Smithtown-Hauppauge swim and dive team are your New York state champions.

For the second time in three seasons, the swim and dive team won the state titles. The girls team won first place in both the 200 medley relay and 200 freestyle relay with swimmers. Sara and Julia Lucca, Mary Schroeder and

Epic Game, But No Title for Hills East

ByTomBarton

Carey defeated Half Hollow Hills East 37-36 on Friday night in one of the greatest games you'll ever see. That isn't just one of the greatest high school games, but overall this game had it all.

With the win Carey finishes with an unbeaten record of 12-0 and win their first title since 2014. The win also will secure Christian Todaro's name into the Carey record books, as he hits legendary status with this performance.

Todaro scored the first TD of the game and the two-point conversion. With that Octopus Carey led 8-0 but that lead didn't last long. Nick Sevilla threw a TD minutes later and Danny White's two-point conversion tied the game at 8 points a piece as we got an early look at the seesaw battle that was ahead.

Christian Todaro and White then scored the next two TDs to make it 15-14 Hills East, followed by a long Todoro TD making it 22-15 Carey until

at 22 a piece.

Daniel White had almost 200 yards rushing at the half and it was anyone's game. Coming out of the locker room, Nick Sevilla hooked up with Lucas Martin twice to take a 14-point lead in the 3rd, but Carey would not go away. They scored on a 4th-and-2 try and followed that up with an interception near the goal line.

Then, with just over a minute, Tororo scored again and the extra point would tie the game. But Carey called a trick play, went for two, and they took a one-point lead. With Hills East driving, and in-field goal range looking for the win with just seconds to play, you know who, the two-way player Todoro intercepts the pass and seals the game and his place in history.

The Phantoms' Dynamic Runs Comes to An End

ByTomBarton

The magical run of dominance on Long Island ended Friday night at Hofstra University when Wantagh defeated Bayport-Blue Point 29-21 to capture the Long Island Class IV championship.

With the loss, we watched the end of one of the best runs in Long Island history and a historic group of kids played well until the very end. Bayport-Blue Point were the two-time defending Long Island Class IV champion and had won 34 games in a row before the loss.

Chiofolo won the gold for Smithtown-Hauppauge.

For their individual accomplishments, Sara Lucca placed first in the 50 freestyle and 100 butterfly. In the butterfly she not only won but set the new pool record in the process.

Julia Lucca placed second in the 50 freestyle and third in the 100 backstroke.

The game was decided on the final drive and Wantagh just got the better of that to claim the title. Halfback Dylan Martini rushed for over 140 yards and led the offense all day. His running and the clock ticking for the last nearly five minutes made all the difference as Wantagh didn't want to give the ball back to the champs and they kept them off the field.

The Phantoms thought they would be leading at the half

14-7 as Cooper Fuller had a TD pass to Dylan Craig and Collin Reyer ran one in just before the half. But with 12 seconds to play, Wantagh came down the field and scored to give them a 15-14 halftime lead. They then came out of the second half with a long TD drive and now the Phantoms, who allowed only 8 points per game, found themselves playing from behind with time against them. After that it was ball control

with nearly a 9-minute drive, but the former champions would not go away quietly and Fuller found Sean Coffey to cut the lead to a TD.

That is when the offense of Wantagh took over and again drained the clock to win the game. Bayport-Blue Point played an excellent game, and they showed their championship mentality, but they will have to begin a new streak starting next season.

Sevilla scored late in the half to knot it

Credit: young_boy_nice_qb11 | Instagram Nick Sevilla

Longwood head football coach

Sean Kluber has been named Division Coach of the Year.

Olivia

Credit: Jamie Stuart

The

Swim and Dive won the state swim championships

at the Webster Aquatic Center.

Coach Kluber

Credit: Longwood Central School District | Facebook

Credit: bbpschools.org Phantoms Cheer

SPORTS Offenses Rule the Day at the LI Championship

ByTomBarton

This Saturday night we had a rematch in the Long Island Championship game between the defending champions Massapequa and the team they upended last year, William Floyd.

A new venue didn't change the result from last season as William Floyd and coach Paul Longo dropped a heartbreaker to their Nassau County counterparts 42-40.

In line with the weekend of Nassau dominance over Suffolk, Nassau winning all four titles, the game was nip and tuck all

the way, but at the end of the day the team standing on LaValle Stadium at Stony Brook was the Nassau County champions and now the back-to-back Long Island champions, Massapequa.

William Floyd came into the game with a distinct crowd advantage in this one. On a cold night, that brought the first snowflakes of the season, it would be raining points for both teams. That scoring began early for Floyd as AJ Cannet hit Joshua Jordan within the first five minutes to give them a 6-0 lead. Tyler Villata quickly responded to take the 7-6 lead and the night of a back-and-forth battle had

begun.

Fumbles returned for a touchdown, an onside kick, Cannet to Jordan again, Villalta again, and we had an explosive first quarter that ended 21-14 in favor of Massapequa.

In the second quarter, Cannet just missed Jordan for what would be their 3rd TD strike of the day, and we watched Floyd punt for the first time all game. That was followed by more punts from both teams as the early game firewoks calmed down. Massapequa extended their lead with just over 2 minutes to play, but on the ensuing kickoff Geo Alvarez returned it the distance to bring Floyd back within a touchdown. Ja'Quan Thomas scored to make it a one-point game briefly before Tyler Villalta struck again with a long kick return and his brother scored the final TD of the half to make it 35-26 heading into the half.

Coming out of the locker rooms to a frozen field, you could see the defenses really step up as we had a scoreless third quarter. But the explosiveness

would soon return for the fourth. Thomas scored to bring the game within a field goal, but a quick answer from Villalta made the score 42-32. Thomas then returned the favor with 3 minutes to play, getting the octopus and converting the twopoint conversion to cut the lead down to 42-40 and that is where it ended.

New York Sports Bettors Set A New Record

ByTomBarton

New Yorkers just keep setting betting records and October was a new high.

New York sports bettors spent a record $2.32 billion dollars in October, which is now the record high for the most money wagered on sports online in a single month in the United States.

When legalized sports betting was coming to the U.S., many experts in the Las Vegas area questioned just how big it would get across the country, while some prominent sports betting voices predicted that New York would re-imagine what we knew as far as

money bet on sports was concerned.

The Big Apple has done exactly that.

Not surprisingly, New York's record-setting sports betting handle numbers were largely because of their love for betting the NFL.

The baseball playoffs, both with New York teams, NBA, NHL, and college football all led to setting the record, but pro football impacted the numbers the most. This time of year pushes the market as the last record was in November 2023 with $2.11 billion.

New York has now been above the $2 billion mark in handle five different times since the launch of online betting in January 2022.

The numbers show almost a 15% increase year by year in the state. But, despite the record handle, the actual revenue came in 35 million under New York’s all-time high. That means there were more winners in October.

FanDuel was the leader of the pack, once again, with more than 77 million in revenue. DraftKings was at an impressive 59 million. Fanatics came in at just over 12 million and Caesars generated almost 11 million.

ESPN Bet didn't crack the top of the market in its first month in business, but they are one to watch for the upcoming months.

In a game that was like watching two great boxers exchange their best haymakers time after time, it was one heck of a game and one that everyone will remember. For Floyd, Cannet, Thomas and the entire team left it all on the field and just came up short in a classic battle between two heavyweights.

LI Championship

LI Championship

Fans at the sportsbook

Credit: Tom Barton

Credit: Tom Barton

Credit: Tom Barton