The upcoming 55thanniversary reunion of Boy Scout Troop 343 (of Hauppauge) is poised to be an inspiring testament to the enduring impact of scouting on young minds and communities. Scheduled for September 22, 2023, the Troop Court of Honor promises to be an occasion of reminiscence, camaraderie, and celebration. We spoke with Paul Merget, the dedicated commissioner and assistant scoutmaster of Troop 343, to delve into the troop's rich history, its values, and the profound impact scouting has on youth in a digitally driven era.
"I've been involved with the troop for about 30 years now," shared Paul Merget, reflecting on his remarkable journey with Troop 343. With pride, he mentioned that both his sons earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, a testament to the troop's nurturing environment. In its 55 years of existence, Troop 343 has fostered over 105 Eagle Scouts, a remarkable achievement that underscores its
commitment to molding young leaders.
The troop's history is replete with adventure and growth. Monthly campouts, including expeditions to the Philmont Scout Ranch in Arizona and annual sailboating trips to Florida, create a tapestry of unforgettable experiences. The trailblazing spirit is evident in their annual hike on Operation Trail, a testament to the troop's emphasis on survival skills and exploration. Merget recounted their excursions to various campsites nationwide, with Camp Missy and Pennsylvania being the consistent venues for their summer camp.
As he detailed the scout advancement process, Merget emphasized the importance of leadership roles. He explained, "Scouts work their way through ranks – from Scout to Eagle –while undertaking leadership roles such as assistant patrol leaders, patrol leaders, and senior patrol leaders. These roles equip them with valuable skills and prepare them for their
futures." He also highlighted the significance of the Eagle Scout badge, earned after completing various merit badges, including those focused on communication, personal management, and family life.
In a digital age, scouting's role in holistic development is more crucial than ever. Merget
articulated, "Scouts learn to navigate beyond screens, adapting to various environments. The skills they acquire, from public speaking to survival techniques, hold them in good stead." He further noted that scouting contributes to strong families and communities, instilling values that resonate throughout life. "Eagle Scouts have gone on to become presidents and astronauts, contributing to society in remarkable ways. Many also choose the military, where being an Eagle Scout garners automatic leadership roles," he added.
Merget shared his anticipation for the reunion, eagerly looking forward to reconnecting with former scouts, volunteers, and their families. "Meeting these young men as accomplished adults is truly rewarding," he mused. The influence of scouting extends far beyond the troop's years, with alumni like Phil now leading the robotics class at their high school.
The Troop Court of Honor is not just a celebration; it's a
manifestation of scouting's enduring influence. Reflecting on the journey, Merget noted, "It's about giving back to the community and building future leaders." As the troop's 55thanniversary approaches, the scouting spirit continues to thrive.
If you are an alumnus of Boy Scout Troop 343, mark your calendar for September 22. The celebration begins at 6:30 PM at St. Thomas More Church in Hauppauge, the troop's sponsor. The evening will be filled with reminiscences, shared stories, pizza, cake, and a recognition of those who have earned badges and advancements. For those who wish to join, RSVP by September 10 to Assistant Scoutmaster Paul M. at 631-724-1789 or Assistant Scoutmaster Phyllis S. via email at troop343bsa55yearreunion@ gmail.com.
The celebration of Boy Scout Troop 343's journey is not just a reflection of the past; it is a testament to the future it continues to shape.
Antennas went up in Suffolk last week when three county sites showed up on a list from New York Mayor Eric Adams for the relocation of migrants from the city. Adams, who threw open the doors to the Big Apple with his Sanctuary City policy, is scrambling to find shelters for more than 100,000 immigrants who took him up on his offer. Appearing on the mayor’s list were Gabreski Airport in Westhampton Beach, Pilgrim Psychiatric Center in Brentwood, and the former Kings Park Psychiatric Center in Nissequogue River State Park.
As concern grew among residents and local officials, Gov. Kathy Hochul, reportedly lobbied by county Executive Steve Bellone, announced that she would not support the mayor’s plans for Suffolk. The governor also announced the extension of her executive order declaring a state of emergency in response to the flood of immigrants, a measure she said will allow the state to quickly fund National Guard troops who are providing support at migrant shelters, as well as purchase supplies, food and equipment.
"The Executive Order is necessary for New York State’s continued response to the unprecedented humanitarian crisis and provides the state with the ability for a more robust response," Hochul said. The governor has earmarked $1.5 billion in taxpayer funds for the migrants this year, funds that are quickly dwindling as Mayor Adams warned the crisis will cost the city upwards of $12 billion over the next two years.
Suffolk was sued by Adams after
the legislature voted to hire a special counsel to advise it of its options as it became a target for possible migrant relocations. A Manhattan Supreme Court judge recently ruled that the lawsuits Adams levied against the county and 31 other New York municipalities that took similar steps must be heard in the individual jurisdictions, rather than one combined case in the city.
Riverhead Supervisor Yvette Aguiar was dragged into the mayor’s court action after she declared a state of emergency stating that hotels, motels and other temporary lodging facilities are not permitted under existing town code for use as permanent housing. “There is nothing humanitarian about a sanctuary city sending busloads of people to a rural town that does not have the infrastructure to care for them,” Aguiar said. “The federal government has failed or refused to anticipate, appreciate or react to the volume of migrants overwhelming the southern border and has failed to defend the sovereignty of the nation, resulting in thousands of migrants crossing the U.S. border virtually unchecked. There is reasonable apprehension of immediate danger of public emergency of hundreds, or potentially thousands, of persons being transported to the Town of Riverhead.”
Suffolk was also named in the suit after Bellone said he would form an intergovernmental team to deal with the migrant issue. Brookhaven officials had their antennas go up when Stony Brook University was mentioned as a migrant site and residents expressed concern over the potential use of the idle William Floyd Estate, a federally-owned site managed by the National Park Service.
“Obviously, these facilities that we're talking about are state facilities so, to a certain degree, the state can utilize their facilities in whatever way that suits them,” said Ryan Murphy, Public Safety & Emergency Management administrator for the Town of Southampton, of the Gabreski Airport location. In his opinion, neither the county portion of the airport or the part used by the Air National Guard would be suitable for a migrant shelter, Murphy said, noting that Southampton College was also mentioned as a relocation center.
“I definitely asked them to notify me if they became aware of any kind of changes to their plans,” Murphy said. “If it's going to be something that could potentially impact the town of Southampton and our residents, if it becomes an additional burden on services, a demand to the community, we just want to make sure that we're dialed into that and know what's going on.”
According to town Supervisor Edward Romaine, the only site previously mentioned for migrants
in Brookhaven was Stony Brook University which, he noted, was the site of a state-funded tent city used for testing and other activities during the Covid pandemic. “So that could be resurrected again, but that's a rumor. I don't know that to be true,” the supervisor said. “This is a federal problem, of course, and the mayor is now saying as much, but no one wanted to criticize Joe Biden, and they're beginning to criticize him now because it's costing the city a fortune,” Romaine continued. “They have people sleeping on the streets, they don't have enough places to put them. They put a tent city up at Creedmoor, a tent city up on Randall’s Island. And now they have permission to set up at Bennett Field. But that isn't going to house all these migrants, and what do you do when winter comes?”
Romaine, a candidate for Suffolk County executive, called President Biden’s immigration policy a “complete failure.” He expressed concerns over the open southern border saying, “They are not checking people who are carrying drugs; they’re not checking for
criminal backgrounds, for disease or human trafficking. There’s no check, there’s no check on anyone.”
“The problem is the immigrants don't have the language skills and they don't have the training to do even basic jobs,” said Marie Masters of the Long Island-based Truth Matters. “This is totally different from a few years ago where you saw single men come up, get to work, and send money home. Now they bring their families with them and now they are going to need schooling for their children and health services. This will have to be paid for by the working taxpayers and its a disgrace that elected officials in our own country would do this to us.”
The migrant crisis is seen as dragging down the Democrats in this year’s election, similar to the way their cashless bail and antilaw enforcement policies caused a Republican “Red Wave” last year. The wave saw four GOP reps elected to Congress from Long Island, tipping the balance of the House and sending Democrat Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the sidelines.
With Hochul plummeting in recent polls due to her handling of the crisis, she’s weighing in on Long Island issues, political observers say, because with Bruce Blakeman as Nassau County executive, she doesn’t want Suffolk to fall to Romaine, another Republican. His opponent, Dave Calone, is saddled with the migrant crisis caused by Biden, Hochul and his other fellow Democrats. They were looking at the Long Island seats to help win back the House, but are starting to see that view fade with the thousands of immigrants knocking at the door.
State taxpayers are now on the hook for a 2,000-bed migrant shelter at the old Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn in a deal that took New York politicians months to hammer out with the Biden administration.
Mayor Eric Adams has been appealing for permission from Washington all summer to use hangers at the former naval base to house some of the nearly 100,000 migrants who have flooded the city under President Biden’s immigration plan. Not only did it take a while for the approval, but requests for federal funding to relieve local taxpayers of the burden have fallen on deaf ears. It wasn’t until Gov. Kathy stepped in and pledged state money for the immigrant camp did the Department of Interior, which controls the former air
station as national parkland, allow its use.
New York officials first requested use of the 1,000-acre property in May as city shelters began filling up and Big Apple hotel space, 50% of which is now occupied by the homeless, was becoming scarce. Adams and Hochul put themselves and the taxpayers in a bind by holding out New York as a “sanctuary” where illegal immigrants are welcome. Their offer of free housing, food, medical, and other services quickly faded as thousands of migrants started showing up. Global shame fell upon the city–and the Biden administration as a whole–when images circulated of hundreds of migrants sleeping on cardboard boxes outside of the Roosevelt Hotel, a grand icon of the city’s glorious past that was converted into a migrant intake center.
The delay by the Biden administration in inking the lease deal has been attributed to Gov. Hochul asking for federal funds to pay for the encampment. Once she agreed to shell out state dollars, the feds said okay. Hochul is quickly burning through the $1.5 billion she budgeted for immigrant services, while Adams shocked Empire State taxpayers recently when he said Biden’s migrant policies will cost the city $12 billion over the next two years.
Local residents are not happy with the Floyd Bennet plan and are pressuring Adams and Hochul to change course. “The community is very stressed out and tensions are extremely high, and rightfully so,” said James Brennan, a native of Rockaway Beach. “They're taking in a massive amount of people and, from what they're telling us, that number could be as high
as 7,500 individuals. There are no services for them. They're putting them in a place where there's no access to stores or jobs or even any type of education. Clearly, these people have suffered through their migration to get to this point, but I don't think they know what's coming to them next, especially in a place that's been abandoned for, I don't
know, 50-60 years.”
According to Brennan, “This is just them trying to push the migrants as far outside of Manhattan as they can, out of sight, out of mind for the liberal people who are looking to toot their own horn saying this is the right thing to do.”
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In partnership with the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County has successfully purchased and preserved the historic Avery Homestead, a local treasure at risk of being lost to redevelopment. The announcement came earlier this week from County Executive Steve Bellone and Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne.
Spanning 11.5 acres, the Avery property is an important historical landmark bordered by South Country Road, Robinson Avenue, and Montauk Highway. "One of the many things that make Suffolk County incredible is our unparalleled open space
and historic properties," said County Executive Steve Bellone. "These extraordinary acquisitions allow us the opportunity to share important history with our children and grandchildren, and further highlight our county's unique heritage."
Initially acquired by Humphrey Avery from the Unkechaug tribe in the 17th century, the land has a long and storied history, passing through generations of the Avery family. It sits along a historical corridor featuring landmarks like the Lakeview Cemetery, the Carnegie Library, and the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts.
The property's fate became uncertain following Barbara Avery's death in 2017. It was added to the Preservation Long Island's Endangered Historic Places list in 2019. Legislator Dominick Thorne, who was instrumental in closing the deal, noted, "Preserving open space is a cornerstone of the environmental efforts of Suffolk County government, and we will continue working together to protect our environment."
Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, "Preserving historic places is an important tradition in the Town of Brookhaven, and
the Avery Homestead property is certainly one that is worthy of saving. As a former history teacher, I am proud to add it to our list of historic places to be preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn about the early settlers of our town."
The joint acquisition by Suffolk County and the Town of Brookhaven comes for $1,949,450, divided at a 70/30 split. Plans for the property are yet to be finalized but could include turning it into a museum, gift shop, or event space.
The county's commitment to historic preservation is evident in its management of over 200
historic properties. "Since taking office in 2022, one of my goals has been obtaining and ultimately preserving the Avery Property," said Parks Commissioner Dominick Thorne. "The Avery property holds significant historical value, even containing a home constructed over two hundred years ago! Efforts are already underway to return the property to its original state."
This successful preservation marks a significant victory for advocates of historical conservation, securing a piece of Suffolk County's rich heritage for future generations.
ByRobertChartukThe West Nile virus continues to show up in mosquitoes sampled by the Department of Health as two cases of the potentially fatal infection have been reported in Suffolk. Officials warn residents to limit exposure to the vectors that carry the disease and take precautions against mosquitoes if they must be in areas where they can be exposed.
One person who contracted West Nile lives in the Town of Southampton and the other is in Huntington. Both were hospitalized and are now recovering at home, the Suffolk County Health Department reported.
According to county Health Commissioner Gregson Pigott, 19 mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus over the last few weeks. Communities throughout the county are monitored, and to date, 31 mosquitos have been found to harbor the virus.
“The symptoms of West Nile virus may look like other conditions or health problems, which is why we advise residents who experience symptoms to see a health care provider,” Pigott said. “A lab test is needed to confirm the diagnosis.”
West Nile is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, according
to the Centers for Disease Control. It is most commonly spread to people through infected insects, with those over 60 and people with existing illnesses most at risk.
So far this year, the CDC’s Arbonet website reported 247 cases of West Nile in the U.S. among 27 states, mainly in the Southwest.
West Nile cases peak in the summer months when mosquitoes carrying the virus are most active. There are no vaccines to prevent infection or medications to treat the disease.
If contact with mosquitoes is unavoidable, people are urged to wear protective clothing and apply insect repellent containing at least 30% DEET.
Mosquito monitoring in Suffolk involves specialized traps and is conducted through a collaborative effort between the Department of Health Service’s Arthropod-Borne Disease Laboratory and the Fire Island National Seashore, where the vectors are more prevalent.
The health department also reported that the Jamestown Canyon virus was detected in a sampled mosquito, a disease with similar symptoms to West Nile.
Weekly surveillance will continue throughout the summer to monitor the severity and extent of the virus, officials said.
Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro and Councilwoman Jane Bonner have announced the completion of extensive stormwater infrastructure improvements at the intersection of Hallock Landing Road and Culross Drive in Rocky Point.
The intersection, a low point of a vast watershed, historically experienced chronic flooding conditions during large rainfall events. As such, this project has improved upon the existing infrastructure’s ability to better manage the large volumes of stormwater runoff in this area.
The Brookhaven Highway Department installed additional new drainage structures and varying-sized drainage pipes with increased capacity to properly convey stormwater runoff to the nearby existing outfall. Increased opportunities for stormwater infiltration and water quality treatment were also designed into the project through the construction of a new bioretention area upstream of the existing outfall.
The total cost for this project, which was funded by the
American Rescue Plan (ARPA), was approximately $923,000.
This stormwater infrastructure improvement project further builds upon the nearly $1-million Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)funded stormwater treatment and shoreline protection project completed in 2018 at the terminus of Hallock Landing Road in Rocky Point.
“The completion of this second phase of stormwater improvements on Hallock Landing Road will ensure that this
entire area – from the terminus of Hallock Landing Road to Ridge Road – is more resilient and less vulnerable to damage from future storms,” said Superintendent Losquadro.
Councilwoman Bonner said, “Thanks to Superintendent Losquadro and the Highway Department residents who live on Hallock Landing Road will be pleased by the Town’s stormwater control improvements. This stretch of road that flooded during heavy rain events, will be much safer now and more eco-friendly.”
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Meanwhile, it's an inhumane scenario for the people that are coming in.” He said his neighbors are also worried about crime and the lax policies of the Queens district attorney. “The police have a lack of tools in managing situations like this. They can't stop them; they can't ask them if they're legal or illegal immigrants. If they're caught doing something, they're released immediately.”
Brennan continued: “This is not a real solution and all they’re doing is kicking the can down the road while upending a community of hard-working Americans, middle-class citizens, who are making this city run. I'm talking about firemen, sanitation workers, nurses, and iron workers. They are the backbone of America and they're just slapping them in the face and saying you deal with it, and it's just not fair.”
“This is something we’ve been asking about, hoping for, for many, many, many months,” Hochul told reporters when the deal was announced. She boasted that the state would not pay rent to the federal government to use the defunct base, and noted that Biden is not expected to transfer ownership of the property which is now part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Prior to the agreement, the federal government had raised legal concerns over housing migrants on public
parkland.
“The answer one month ago was ‘no’ — that this is land owned by the Department of Interior, National Parks, and they do not allow for use of shelters on any of their properties,” Hochul recounted. “So, I'm viewing this as a significant development by the administration in Washington to acknowledge that we need more help here.”
“Since the Biden administration ended the ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy, there has been an uncontrollable tidal wave of asylum seekers pouring into cities all across the country as they wait for their cases to be heard,” noted state Senator Dean Murray (R-C, East Patchogue). “That has led to billions of tax-payer dollars being spent to house, clothe, and feed the migrants–meaning there are billions of dollars not available to help our seniors, our veterans, and other legal, tax-paying U.S. citizens that are struggling to survive,” Murray said, adding, “Governor Hochul should not be asking the federal government for more tax dollars to pay for a bigger bandaid for the current migrant crisis. Instead, she should join the call for President Biden to secure the border and immediately begin negotiating with the Mexican government to put the ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy back in place.”
For his part, Mayor Adams said, "I’m looking forward to
more of this kind of partnership with our friends in Albany as we manage this ongoing crisis." The full details of the Floyd Bennett deal haven’t been released, but Hochul said it could be expanded beyond the currently planned 2,000 beds. A photo accompanying news coverage of the shelter shows rows of cots reminiscent of what it looked like during World War II when soldiers were housed at the base. Hochul noted that the space will be air-conditioned and heated, and will be available for use during the upcoming winter by single adults, a plan designed to free up hotels and other more appropriate shelters for women, children, and families.
“What no one is talking about is where these migrants will go on a permanent basis,” said Marie Masters of the Long Island community group, Truth Matters. “Where are they going to work? Where will their kids be going to school? Who’s going to pay for their services over the
long haul?” she asked. “We all know the sad truth. This is a humanitarian disaster of epic proportions and the hardworking people of this state, who by the way are already the highest taxed in the nation, will be forced to pay for it. This is an absolute disgrace on the part of President Joe Biden and the people around him who think this is all well and good.”
Adams is in a war with the suburbs as he looks to relocate the migrants to Long Island and other communities throughout the state. Officials in Suffolk County approved the hiring of a special counsel to advise them on how they could respond to any relocation attempts and were promptly sued by the mayor. Another 31 named municipalities, whose elected leaders stress that local taxpayers cannot afford to provide the services required by the immigrants, won a court decision allowing the cases to be heard in the individual jurisdictions, rather than in Manhattan.
NYS Senator Dean Murray and NYS Assemblyman Joe DeStefano attended the "Long Island Dystonia Zoo Day" at the Holtsville Wildlife and Ecology Center. They joined with Long Island families to promote awareness of Dystonia and to raise funds for the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation. Senator Murray and Assemblyman DeStefano presented resolutions to Linda Tobin Davis, the founder of "Fight for a Cure," to proclaim the month of September 2023 as "Dystonia Awareness Month" in the State of New York. Ms. Davis holds this fundraiser annually in an effort to increase awareness and to educate people about this relatively unknown disorder.
Dystonia is a disorder that causes muscles in the
body to contract and spasm involuntarily. Individuals affected by this disorder cannot control or predict the movement of their bodies.
“The cause of Dystonia is unknown–it does not discriminate between men and women, old or young. It may be inherited or result from other health conditions such as stroke, physical trauma, or even other diseases. It’s very important to have greater public awareness of this serious health issue, and more must be done to increase activity at the local, state, and national levels to find a cure,” noted NYS Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, 3rd Assembly District.
"There is currently no cure for Dystonia, which is why it is imperative that we continue to bring greater awareness
to this serious health issue. I am proud to sponsor this resolution in the hope that the increased focus on Dystonia
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Buried in all the glowing coverage of New York’s green energy ambitions is something few have yet to acknowledge—the cost.
The dirty little secret never broached by the politicians touting the virtues of windmills and solar farms is the fact that no matter how much is spent, the ratepayers will be forced to foot the bill. And for the private companies they’re cutting deals with to make their green dreams a reality, money is no object.
Case in point is the $700 million Sunrise Wind project off Long Island’s south shore. The cable connecting their turbines to the grid will come up from the ocean at Smith Point Park in Shirley, but that’s not anywhere near where the windmills will be. They’ll be 120 miles away off Montauk Point, necessitating an extremely expensive 120-mile cable across the bottom of the Atlantic. The Eco-Edison, a special ship described as a “floatel,” is being built to tend to the turbines with a hefty price tag in the tens of millions. The headquarters for the project will be on the other side of Long Island and will cost the ratepayers $37 million.
And that’s not all. To convince Brookhaven Town officials to let them build a cable under William Floyd Parkway to carry their juice to a waiting public, Sunrise Wind committed to forking over $130 million in future ratepayer money over the next 25 years. Suffolk County will get $40 million in impact fees, and $5 million will go to Stony Brook University to develop a Research and Development Partnership. To get everyone ready for the jobs the wind project will create, the Sunrise folks are ponying up $10 million for a training center in Brentwood.
It’s no wonder that before a single kilowatt is produced, Sunrise and its cohorts in the New York wind energy game, Beacon Wind, East Wind, and Empire Wind, are already asking regulators to let them charge even more for their precious power.
Said Teddy Muhlfelder of Empire and Beacon Wind, “Like other developers at the forefront of this emerging U.S. industry, we have seen the estimated costs of our projects rise sharply due to inflation, supply chain disruptions, permitting and interconnection delays, rising interest rates, and other outside factors. While we have worked to manage these issues, given the unique moment in our global economy, this is an industry-wide issue that cannot be overcome at the project level.”
Bernard Looney, another
wind spokesman, said, “We will not develop projects that don’t meet our returns threshold, which is why we are in the midst of renegotiating the purchase contracts in the East Coast.” He said the company needs to make 6-8% returns on its investment in the projects.
While all this is going on, the state of New York under Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Biden administration have slammed the door on new investments in natural gas-fired facilities, even going as far as to ban gas stoves and eliminate the clean-burning fuel entirely for heating and cooling in just eight years. This has left consumers scratching their heads since New York sits on a massive reserve of natural gas larger than that of Saudi Arabia. Tapping this energy would be an economic blessing for all of New York.
Those who see the Empire State’s energy train wreck coming are asking a simple question: Where will the electricity come from when it’s dark out and the wind’s not blowing? For the answer, one need only look to California and Texas where a head-long switch to green energy without investments in 24-hour alternatives is causing brownouts and skyrocketing energy costs— not the most forward-thinking way to power a modern economy.
One elected official who’s raising a red flag over the $48 billion in green projects coming down the pike for the region is state Senator Mario Mattera. “This is bad politics that are going to hurt all New Yorkers,” Mattera said in predicting the issue will be a key factor in 2024 when state and federal offices, including the White House, will be up for election. According to the senator, the Democrats behind the Green New Deal have been unable to adequately explain the costs associated with their projects. “We need to transition into renewable energy at a certain rate, a certain pace,” he said.
His view was shared by Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano who said he is worried that “New Yorkers will end up with a failing energy system that won’t even come close to meeting their needs.” He added, “Energy costs will go through the roof and we’ll have rolling brownouts, maybe even prolonged blackouts like they had in Texas when a deep freeze crippled their system.”
Proponents of the Green Deal are hoping that the elimination of fossil fuels will ultimately lower energy bills by harnessing the sun and wind, provide significant health benefits and stave off global warming. The allure of green energy is so appealing that President Biden earmarked
hundreds of billions of dollars in his Inflation Reduction Act to subsidize the industry, billions of which will go to prop up nuclear power plants. Gov. Hochul throwing her support behind New York’s four nuclear plants angered many, particularly the Democrats who for years have railed against the industry.
Ratepayers in New York are going to need the federal subsidies since their elected leaders have mandated 70 percent renewable electricity by 2030 and zero emissions shortly thereafter, an astounding goal given that demand for electricity is expected to double by 2050.
“The costs of incentivizing renewable electricity development and transmission upgrades are borne almost exclusively by New York’s utility customers through a charge per kilowatt hour of electricity consumed,” confirmed state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli in a recent report. He flagged the state’s green ambitions, stating, “New York’s energy goals are attainable, but require careful
attention and management to address challenges, meet ambitious deadlines and avoid future pitfalls.”
“I’m very concerned about the cost and the impact on our ratepayers, our constituents,” said Legislator Didi Barrett, chair of the state assembly’s Energy Committee. “People right now are already complaining about where their utility costs are, so it has to
be part of the conversation.”
New York City “supports efforts to transform our electric system away from fossil fuels to sustainable, carbon-free technologies,” said an official with the administration of Mayor Eric Adams. “However, the city is very concerned that the cost of utility service is becoming unaffordable for many New Yorkers.”
Continuing a run that began 182 years ago, the New York State Fair is underway until Labor Day. It is one of the largest fairs in the nation and celebrates the Empire State’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage.
The annual Central New York tradition at the state Fairgrounds in Syracuse will feature exciting new rides, acts and exhibits, and this year’s fair is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.
“The New York State Fair should be on everyone’s Bucket List as a must-attend event,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, a frequent visitor. “It draws people from throughout the northeast and captivates audiences with a unique blend of entertainment and community spirit.”
Year after year, the twoweek spectacle offers diverse attractions for all tastes, promised Will Barclay, an upstate legislator. “As a lifelong resident of Central New York, I’m proud that fairgoers can experience a taste of this area and enjoy the great products our family farms provide every year,” Barclay said.
The festivities commence with a 4-H Youth Horse Show and the Annual Dog Show. Attendees can see demonstrations by the State Police underwater recovery team, a Dinosaur Expedition, magic shows, rooster crowing competition and much more, including a dedicated kid’s zone, games and educational activities designed to engage younger generations.
Vendors include local favorites such as Baga Bowls, Syracuse Halal, Eatery Pub, PZO’s, Santillo’s, Carr’s Cove, West End Pub, Tommy C’s, Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, and the Tikki Turtle. Fairgoers can go home with all kinds of merchandise and one-of-a-kind
treats.
“I end up back here every August,” said Steve Sommers, proprietor of The Shamrock, who will serve beer and food from a spot near the Expo Center. “Why? It’s Syracuse. It’s summer. This is the place to be.”
The fair will present a multitude of concerts and world-class entertainers that span music, dance, comedy and more. More than 50 performers with names such as Salt-NPeppa, REO Speedwagon, Bell Biv Devoe, Chubby Checker, The Fray, and Foghat will take the stage at Suburban Park and Chevy Court.
For tickets, schedules, exhibits, and other info, visit nysfair.ny.gov.
ByRaheemSoto
The modern U.S. Department of Education, inaugurated on May 4, 1980, was born out of the original Department of Education in 1867. President Jimmy Carter's administration revived it in 1980 to manage federal school aid and enforce education laws.
Federal involvement in education, however, started long before the Department's formal constitution in 1980. Post World War II, the government played an instrumental role in the education sector. For instance, the 1944 GI Bill provided substantial educational benefits to veterans returning from the war. The 1980 establishment of the Department of Education as a cabinet-level agency was seen as a testament to the increasing significance of education in the country's priorities.
At the helm of the Department of Education is the Secretary of Education, who not only advises the President on educational policies and programs but also holds a position in the nation's line of succession, standing sixteenth. In March 2021, Dr. Miguel Cardona received Senate confirmation to lead the Department. The Department of Education has about 4,400 employees - the smallest staff of
the Cabinet agencies - and an annual budget of $68 billion.
The DOE's publicly stated mission is "Advancing student achievement and championing equal access to education." It alleges to be the pillar that upholds nationwide educational policies, disseminates financial aid, and imparts guidance to American schools. However, there seems to be a glaring disparity between these lofty ambitions and the tangible results, especially in the country's urban centers.
One of the primary causes of this skepticism lies within the DOE's financial operations. Despite receiving a chunk of the federal budget, there is ample room for doubt regarding the effectiveness of fund utilization.
The department's funding distribution is shrouded in obscurity. A 2017 U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlighted. The report raised serious questions regarding the monitoring and performance of the U.S. Department of Education. The GAO identified four central issues: oversight, data quality, capacity, and evaluation methods. Their investigations found consistent shortcomings in tracking the use of grant funds, with many required monitoring documents
missing.
The department's bureaucratic labyrinth presents another challenge. Schools seeking funds are often entangled in a web of cumbersome regulations and exhaustive paperwork.
One of the most contentious aspects of the DOE's approach lies in its obsessive focus on standardized testing. Advocates argue that standardized testing is a method to hold schools accountable and measure student achievement. Critics point out
that this narrow focus stymies creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
The department's testingcentric outlook tends to sideline vital educational aspects in favor of performance metrics. The consequential pressure on students and teachers to produce high test scores often leads to a practice of "teaching to the test," compromising a comprehensive understanding of subjects.
As U.S. citizens, we should care about the actions and leadership
of the U.S. Department of Education because it shapes the future of our children, our communities, and the nation.
You can contact the U.S. Department of Education at 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800872-5327) or 202-401-2000. Assistance is available in Spanish and over 170 other languages. If you have common inquiries, consider checking their Frequently Asked Questions at www.ed.gov/answers.
As New York remains embroiled in legal battles over congressional redistricting, aspiring candidates for 2024 House races find themselves in a vexing quandary, unsure of where to even start their campaigns. The foggy landscape, however, is not stalling Republican ambitions, especially given the party's recent gains in critical seats, including areas like Suffolk County.
"Redistricting has effectively put campaign recruitment on ice. People want to make a difference, but they're hesitant because they don't even know which district they could be contesting," said former GOP Rep. Lee Zeldin, who runs a PAC aimed at electing Republican candidates.
Last year, the GOP managed to turn the tide by snatching three House seats in New York, aiding them in clinching a narrow majority in Congress.
With critical races in Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and parts of upstate New York, the Empire State is gearing up to be a pivotal battleground that could swing control of Congress in 2024.
Republican victories last year were hard-won, especially considering the chaotic redistricting landscape. A court redrew the electoral maps in May after Republicans successfully sued, arguing that the Democratic-controlled Legislature had failed to follow proper procedures. These last-minute changes led to significant shifts in electoral strategies, including dramatic reversals like Republican Mike Lawler, who switched from a state Senate bid to a congressional race, pulling off a significant upset.
The legal wrangling continues, with Democrats seeking to label last year's maps as provisional. A court decision is not expected until
around Thanksgiving. If Democrats emerge victorious, the state Legislature could redraw the lines in early 2024, likely sparking another round of lawsuits and keeping the electoral field fluid until next spring.
"The most crucial question for prospective 2024 candidates is what district you might be running in, and what its partisan makeup might be," Zeldin pointed out.
While some candidates seem unfazed by the ongoing redistricting saga, the high likelihood of reshuffling exists, as demonstrated by the 2022 elections. Zeldin noted that the "biggest thing politically" is the varied scenarios, whether running in a district with an incumbent, an open seat, or a district with a particular partisan leaning.
Should Democrats win the current lawsuit, they could reinstate last year's lines,
affecting multiple districts and causing another period of political uncertainty. Such a scenario could have a substantial impact, not just on statewide races but particularly in hotly contested areas like Suffolk County, where any shifts in district lines could reshape the political playing field.
"In Suffolk County, we're no strangers to tight races and the impact of district lines could be profound," Zeldin concluded. "We're preparing for all possibilities and fully intend to capitalize on opportunities to strengthen GOP representation, irrespective of how the lines fall."
In this high-stakes game of electoral maneuvering, one thing remains certain: the future of the GOP and the political fabric of areas like Suffolk County hangs in the balance, awaiting the final word on New York's redistricting ordeal.
South Dakota's "Freedom Works Here" workforce recruitment initiative, spearheaded by Governor Kristi Noem, has been a national talking point but is curiously resonating with New Yorkers. Initially gaining the spotlight when its new advertisement, "Bright Side," was broadcast during the first Republican presidential primary debate on Fox News, the campaign has since raked in a staggering 35.7 million impressions.
Governor Noem discussed the campaign's intent, stating, "We designed the ad to resonate with those who hold personal freedom in high regard. South Dakota is ripe with job opportunities and our objective is to put the state on the map as a quintessential location for a flourishing personal and professional life."
The figures back up the
governor's enthusiasm. Just the day following the ad's debut on Hannity, the campaign broke records by attracting 386 new applications. To date, "Freedom Works Here" has garnered over 558 million views, received 5,674 applications, and is currently guiding approximately 1,100 individuals through the final phases of relocating to South Dakota.
What is particularly intriguing is the fact that New Yorkers lead the pack in the application count, contributing 255 applications as opposed to South Dakota's own 163. It is also worth noting that the campaign serves as a valuable resource for South Dakotans themselves, who are using it as a stepping stone to better career prospects within the state.
To widen its demographic reach, the campaign has also secured a slot in the November edition of Stars & Stripes
magazine. The publication is aimed at approximately 350,000 military personnel transitioning back to civilian life, offering them a glance at South Dakota's employment opportunities.
This situation begs the question that's becoming harder to ignore: Is the "Freedom Works Here" campaign deliberately trying to appeal to dissatisfied
residents of states with higher taxes and stricter regulations?
The lopsided interest from New York applicants could suggest that the campaign, intentionally or not, is touching a sore point for individuals in high-tax, highcost-of-living states. Although the campaign is a nationwide initiative, it seems to strike a chord, particularly with New Yorkers, who might feel the
strain of their state's taxing economic climate.
According to Governor Noem, the "Freedom Works Here" campaign has exceeded all national and in-state engagement expectations. However, the disproportionate flood of applications from New York provides an additional layer of complexity. Could this be more than just a nationwide recruitment effort? Is it a carefully orchestrated strategy to draw in residents from states with oppressive financial burdens, particularly New York?
As the numbers continue to pour in, and as more New Yorkers seem inclined to consider a move, the campaign leaves many wondering whether this is a general call for relocation or a targeted invitation for New Yorkers seeking respite from an economically stifling environment.
ByRaheemSoto
The 2024 Republican presidential primary debate's first installment unfolded at Milwaukee's Fiserv Forum, moderated by Fox News anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum. The two-hour session featured eight GOP presidential candidates: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Ohio entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former Vice President Mike Pence, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. The candidates engaged in discussions that spanned various topics, from policy issues to the lasting impact of former President Donald Trump. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, seen as Trump's closest competition, delivered a carefully calibrated performance, clearly positioning himself as the successor to Trump's mantle, albeit with his unique flair. "Tonight is about the future and what we stand for," said DeSantis when questioned on whether he would support Trump in the face of a potential conviction. DeSantis turned the focus onto his governance, pointing to a commendable record on crime reduction and immigration control.
The evening also showcased political newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy, an Ohio entrepreneur, who captivated attention with his spirited exchanges with veteran politicians. Former Vice President Mike Pence probed Ramaswamy's political inexperience, asking, "What exactly has Mr. Ramaswamy done to prove he's ready for office?" Undeterred, Ramaswamy shot back, "Loyalty to our country comes first," addressing a query from former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie about his allegiance to Trump.
Christie struggled to find his footing during the debate. Despite adopting a confrontational style, the boos he received from the crowd weakened his attempts to present himself as an alternative to the party's current direction.
The divide within the GOP was vividly outlined on the issue of abortion. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley urged a "more measured approach," while Mike Pence and Senator Tim Scott advocated a strict 15-week federal abortion ban. With one eye on the general election, Haley also introduced moderate stances on climate change and contraception to her platform.
The debate inevitably steered toward the controversial events of January 6, 2021. DeSantis
deftly navigated a question from Pence, affirming that the former Vice President had "fulfilled his constitutional duties" on that fateful day.
A post-debate survey found that Trump still holds a commanding lead, supported by 58% of potential Republican primary voters. The survey showed DeSantis trailing by 44 percentage points but underscored that the Republican front-runner faced no negative repercussions for skipping the debate.
Ramaswamy saw a modest increase in his support, moving
from 10% to 11%, within the survey's margin of error. Support for Christie also nudged up, albeit marginally, from 3% to 4%. This static electoral sentiment starkly contrasts with the 2020 Democratic primaries, which saw significant movement after their initial debates.
Though Trump was absent from the debate stage, he was present online in an interview with Tucker Carlson, broadcast at the same time as the debate. Nielsen reports indicated that the debate was watched by 12.8 million people, which was only slightly higher than a January
2016 debate that Trump skipped. However, this was considerably less than the 24 million who watched Trump's first debate appearance in 2015.
Social media giant X reported that Carlson's online interview with Trump reached 236.7 million views. However, this is based on how many scrolled past the tweet rather than how many engaged with the content.
While the debate did not significantly shift the tectonics of the 2024 Republican race, it was a critical opportunity for candidates to present their visions for America.
While there is some optimism for our nation’s 33 million small businesses, many believe we are already in recession territory. With high interest rates, inflation, skilled labor shortages, supply chain issues, increased energy costs, material costs and runaway insurance rates, it is harder for them to turn a profit. The sacrifices of small business owners go relatively unnoticed, and the majority of small business owners are not taking a salary.
According to a recent survey conducted by the National Federation of Independent Business Owners, (NFIB), when it comes to the national economy, “over half (58%) of owners assessed the national economy as poor, only 1% reported excellent, 9% reported good, and 32% reported okay. As for when the U.S. economy will enter the next recession, 52% of small businesses think the U.S. is already in a recession. Two percent think the next recession will start in the July-September period, 17% believe a recession will occur in the OctoberDecember period, 20% reported the January-June 2024 period, and 10% reported July 2024 or later.”
I reached out to the NFIB and Chief Economist for the NFIB William Dunkelberg shared with me, “Small business owners are paid out of the bottom line, money left after paying workers, operating costs, taxes and regulatory costs. Inflation that approached 10% (annual rate) has driven the costs to new highs while the Administration is using tax revenues to hire more tax collectors and looking for ways to raise taxes on owners (e.g. eliminating expensing). Sales are slowing, making it more difficult to cover costs, and all of this reduces the earnings of owners and entrepreneur.” A Forbes Advisor survey shows that 64% of small business owners aren’t paying themselves a salary out of their small business.
More NFIB data demonstrates that 58% of small business owners who borrowed or tried to borrow reported high interest rates as their largest complaint in accessing financing. 23% reported it was a moderate issue and only 13% said it was a mild issue.
As per Business News Daily, “The health of the financial system is essential to small business operations,” said Holly Wade, Executive Director of NFIB’s Research Center. “While
most owners are currently satisfied with their ability to borrow, the escalating cost of financing associated with high interest rates is a significant issue for many.” They also report, “Due to rising prices from higher inflation rates, many small
business owners are forgoing their salaries to cover their business expenses,” and “lower profits, supply chain issues and increased resource costs are some of the challenges business owners face because of inflation.”
However, there are some signs
of improving conditions as small business owners are expecting better business conditions over the next six months, 31 percentage points better than last June’s reading. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index increased to 91.9 in July but is still below the historical average of 98 and has been below the average for 19 consecutive months. Onefourth small businesses have been raising prices, but this is down 29% from May.
According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses employ about 46% of the private workforce and make up over 40% of the U.S. economy. This number has consistently shrunk since the mid-1990s. Over the last four years I have traveled to about two-thirds of the states, and I have spoken with hundreds of small business owners across America. The story is almost always the same. “I don’t know how I am going to expand or stay in business with my astronomical overhead.” On one hand you have some optimism about the future for small business and on the other, how much more can small business owners take and keep absorbing the hits. This remains to be seen and may be a factor in next year’s election.
First message is resonating with voters. While the majority of polling for the 2024 GOP Presidential nomination has shown DeSantis leading Vivek Ramaswamy, several recent polls show Vivek slightly ahead of or tied with the Florida governor. A pattern is emerging on increased popularity and momentum for the 38-year-old entrepreneur. Vivek claims that faith, freedom, and family are the way to find our way back as a nation. He claims that we have lost our way but we can get it back. He prides himself as part of a new young generation that can achieve these goals.
The son of Indian legal immigrants, Vivek rails against illegal immigration, getting embroiled in Ukraine, maintains that the U.S. climate change agenda is a hoax, and says the indictments of Trump are politically driven and that our government has been weaponized against him and that he will pardon Trump if
convicted. Mr. Ramaswamy boldly stated, “We are not some banana republic where the party in power uses the police force to indict and arrest its political opponents in the middle of a Presidential election.”
In a recent interview I conducted on Real Americas Voice News, Vivek explained his strategy to win the 2024 GOP nomination. He claimed he has built private enterprises, outside the swamp, has taken on big
pharma and the ESG industrial complex, and if successful he will take on the bureaucracy of the Federal government. He added that he will speak the truth while he does it.
I asked Vivek his views on globalism as many Trump supporters are saying that Vivek leans with the globalists.
But during our discussion he doubled down on American sovereignty. He exclaimed
that we should stop funding organizations like the World Health Organization and the UN as they are fundamentally hostile to our sovereignty. “I’m saying many of the same things that Trump is saying, and in many cases I’m taking it further,” continuing, “I want to militarize the border and shut down the Department of Education.”
When it comes to individuals, faith, family, nation, God, hard work and patriotism, Vivek says these “are the things that ground us” and that “we have lost those basic values.” He continued that this is “also why we see the rise of fentanyl, depression, anxiety, suicide. These are symptoms of a deeper void of purpose and meaning in our country, a deeper black hole that we need to fill with what it means to be an American citizen.”
Vivek claims that the young vote will be the key to a landslide win in 2024 for the Republicans and that he is bringing them along and that 40% of his firsttime donors are also firsttime donors to the Republican party. Vivek has gained a type
of “rock star” status at recent events. At the June Faith and Freedom Coalition Conference in Washington, D.C. and at last month’s Turning Point USA Conference in West Palm Beach, Ramaswamy was one of the most well-received speakers at both forums.
I closed our interview with two questions, one being that if he lost to Donald Trump in the primary, would he consider a VP slot and two, would he back Trump for President regardless. Vivek confirmed that he would “definitely” back Trump but that he and Donald Trump have something in common, that neither of them would make a great number two, referencing their powerful personalities and drive.
One thing is clear, Vivek hasn’t minced words about his vision on how to get America moving on a better path forward. How far he can take that message remains to be seen. In the meantime, Vivek Ramaswamy enjoys a meteoric rise and could be a factor in things going forward.
The BRICS countries gathered this week in Johannesburg, South Africa. BRICS has doubled its strength as an independent economic block adding six nations including Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to the current member countries which include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. BRICS represents about 40% of the world’s population and consists of the world’s major oil producing nations. It appears that Russia and China are thrilled with the addition of these new countries and a few dozen others are looking for entry into BRICS. But what is the endgame for this organization and will it polarize international relations and trade even further?
It appears that Russia and China are intent on inflicting as much economic damage to the West as possible and seek to undermine the value of the U.S. dollar.
However, it appears that there is an internal struggle within BRICS in its role on the world stage. Members like Brazil may not benefit as much as say Russia or China and according
to The Guardian, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil’s president stated earlier in the week at the BRICS summit in South Africa, “We do not want to be a counterpoint to the G7, G20 or the United States,” giving notice that BRICS members should not be organized to compete directly with the United State and other Western organizations.
But with China, Russia and Iran at the helm of BRICS, isn’t this inevitable? How much damage will the BRICS countries inflict on the U.S. dollar as they represent about 25% of the world’s GDP? While they probably won’t form their own currency, many say they are looking for alternatives to the World Bank and the International Monetary Funds with alternatives to trade on the U.S. dollar.
Former President Trump, in his recent sit down with Tucker Carlson and at many Trump rallies I have covered recently, likened the expanding power of BRICS as the equivalent to losing major war, comparing it in size and scope to World War II, as they concentrate their power as a global trading bloc, admit new countries and move away from
the U.S. dollar.
Founded In 2009, this week’s summit is the 15th anniversary of BRICS. Reuters sums it up best, “The bloc was founded as an informal club in 2009 to provide a platform for its members to challenge a world order dominated by the United States and its Western allies. Reuters explains further that the genesis of the acronym BRIC, “which did not initially include South Africa” and “was coined in 2001 by then Goldman Sachs chief economist Jim O'Neill in a
research paper that underlined the growth potential of Brazil, Russia, India and China.” It’s not as much of a formal organization as say the United Nations or OPEC but it is gaining steam as a vessel to skirt the U.S. dollar and the Euro and to decrease the economic power of the United States and the Western World. It is imperative that the United States and its western allies take the BRICS seriously. The United States must remain a leader in energy production and manufacturing. Under the
Trump Administration there was a daily policy to achieve “strategic energy dominance,” firing on all cylinders with oil and natural gas output. That focus has changed into “green new deal” approach over the last few years under the Biden Administration and capital investment into fossil fuel technology and exploration has waned as we pursue renewables and alternate energy sources.
Over 40 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, including Saudi Arabia, the world’s second largest oil producer. As for manufacturing in the U.S., The Wall Street Journal is reporting today that, “Manufacturing is becoming worrisomely weak in the U.S.” and “New orders for durable goods fell 5.2% in July, the biggest slump since April 2020. That was worse than the 4.1% slide expected by Wall Street Journal-polled economists.”
We have entered a new era and moving into unchartered waters with the balance of power shifting away from the United States and the West. How does the U.S. maintain its leadership role in the world as we face many challenges ahead?
Suddenly, they’re here and darting around Suffolk roadways, mosquitolike: electric bikes or e-bikes. Many I’ve seen are being operated by young teens, without helmets. The e-bikes themselves in New York State need no license plates, those who ride them no driver’s license.
Meanwhile, as is often the case when a new technology arrives, there are vested interests pushing a new product or process.
In Suffolk County, which has just been reported to have had the highest death toll in traffic accidents of any county in the state last year –134 people killed, the police department on Shelter Island, where in 2021 a fatal accident occurred involving an e-bike, is moving to bring some order to the e-bike disorder.
The department has just run an ad in the Shelter Island Reporter headed “KNOW THE LAW, ELECTRIC BIKES AND SCOOTERS.” It notes under a heading “MUST BE 16 YEARS OLD” that New York State “law states only persons 16 years and older can operate an e-bike.” Further, under a heading “30 MPH OR LESS,” it notes that “NYS law states e-bikes cannot be operated on a roadway with a speed limit greater than 30 mph.”
How many roadways in Suffolk County—indeed anywhere—have speed limits of 30 miles per hour
or less on extended stretches? The speed limits on most roads here and elsewhere are 35, and 40, or 45 and more miles per hour.
So what are e-bikes doing on these roads, period?
Detective/Sergeant Jack Thilberg of the Shelter Island Police Department told me last week that its chief, James Read, because of “safety concerns” has launched a “public awareness and communications” initiative regarding laws covering e-bikes. This, said Thilberg, is preparatory to the department moving into “enforcement of the laws.”
“We had a fatality in August 2021 involving an e-bike,” said the detective sergeant, “and we had a serious injury accident involving an e-bike this summer.”
Shelter Island is far from alone.
“Teenagers’ Accidents Expose the Risks of E-Bikes,” was the front-page headline of the July 1st issue of The New York Times. The subhead: “A Booming Technology Is Outpacing Federal and State Laws.”
The article began by telling of how a 15-year-old boy in Encinitas, California had, while riding an e-bike, been killed “in a terrible crash, the latest teenage victim of an e-bike accident.”
He “had been riding from home”
on an “e-bike, a model made by Rad Power” with “a top speed of 20 miles per hour, but his route took him on a busy road with a 55-mile-per hour limit. While turning left, he was clipped by a Nissan van and thrown violently.”
“The e-bike industry is booming,” said the article, “but the summer of 2023 has brought sharp questions about how safe e-bikes are, especially for teenagers.” It spoke of “risks, especially for young, inexperienced riders merging into complex traffic with fast-moving cars and sometimes distracted drivers.”
“To some policymakers and law enforcement officials, the technology has far out-paced existing laws, regulations and safety guidelines. Police and industry officials charge that some companies appear to knowingly sell products that can easily evade speed limits and endanger young riders,” said the piece. “Communities have begun to alert their residents to the dangers of e-bikes. In June, the police department in Bend, Ore., ran a public service campaign acquainting the public with the e-bike laws that were frequently broken there. Days later, a 15-year-old boy was killed when the e-bike he was riding was struck by a van…”
Meanwhile, the same day this article ran in The Times, Newsday
ran a two-page spread headlined: “East End easy riders, New e-bike tours to check out in the Hamptons and Montauk.”
The piece declared: “If you are heading out east this season, hit up one of these e-bike companies that provide tours and rentals.” It provided details on various companies that rent e-bikes. It included quotes from Andy Morris of Hampton Bays who with his wife run Electric Bikes A Go Go which, the article pointed out, had just begun a “new tour” by e-bike “in Montauk.” The company already has a “Shelter Island Tour,” it noted. It also has a “Dune Road Ride to Breakfast Tour” between Hampton Bays and Quogue, and a “Sagaponack Sunset Tour.”
The article quoted Morris saying: “You are guaranteed to smile when you get on an e-bike. Every time you
ride, it’s like being on vacation.”
Not only are people being killed riding e-bikes, but the bikes’ power source, lithium-ion batteries, have a record of exploding. In March, ABC News reported that in 2022 in New York City, 147 injuries and six deaths had resulted from e-bike battery fires. “So far in 2023, 33 fires, 42 injuries and three deaths have been attributed to these fires,” it said.
It quoted Mayor Eric Adams as saying: “E-bikes and e-scooters are here, you might as well get used to them.”
Really?
Last week, a 93-year-old woman died in Ozone Park, Queens in a fire in a two-story building that started by a lithium-ion battery exploding in an e-bike repair shop below where she lived.
BY REV. FREDERICK MILLER. PH.D.
There are many different types of sleep disorders. Some may be caused by other underlying health conditions. However, we will look at the two main types, Insomnia and Sleep Apnea.
Insomnia refers to the inability to fall asleep or to remain sleep. It can be caused by stress and anxiety, hormones or digestive problems. It may also be a symptom of another condition.
Insomnia in the military is up 650 percent since 2003. From 1997 to 2011, reported rates of insomnia soared, the study found, a trend that spiked considerably following the 2003 invasion of Iraq. This is a direct association between the disorder and exposure to combat. In the eight years following the invasion, the rate of insomnia, which is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, diabetes, stroke, depression, and anxiety, skyrocketed 652 percent among military personnel. It was
also found that post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries suffered as a result of combat deployments have been identified as known to also lead to insomnia, in addition, so will Moral Injury. Unfortunately, while most of the other medical problems were treated and solved before the personnel were discharged, insomnia remains.
Sleep Apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. This is a serious medical condition that causes the body to take less oxygen. It can also cause you to wake up during the night. Many of our Veterans returned home still suffering this problem. Sleep Apnea is one of the most common conditions among Veterans.
Other sleep problems include; parasomnias where abnormal movements and behaviors take place, during sleep, such as: sleepwalking, sleep talking, groaning, nightmares,
bedwetting, teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME (RLS) is an overwhelming need to move the legs. This urge is sometimes accompanied by a tingling sensation in the legs. While these symptoms can occur
during the day, they are most prevalent at night.
This problem is often associated with certain health conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Parkinson’s disease, but the exact cause isn’t always known.
Narcolepsy is characterized by “sleep attacks” that occur while awake. This means that you will suddenly feel extremely tired and fall asleep without warning.
All of the above conditions should be seen by a medical doctor.
Ideas that may help you sleep
1. Reports indicate that those who take a shower or bath before going to bed often sleep better.
2. Since stress, anxiety or depression will keep one awake, try to avoid them while attempting to go to sleep. One way is to concentrate on your breathing by thinking about every breath when it comes in and goes out.
3. Some reports say that wearing clean socks to bed can be a help.
Seven (7) hours of sleep a night is what we need to stay healthy
With the high school football season just around the corner, Bellport High School announced their class of 2023 Hall of Fame nominees.
In a press release obtained by the South Shore Press, former coach and Suffolk County Sports Hall of Famer Joe Cipp revealed the nominees for this year’s class as Norman Dillon (1980), Mike Pepe (2006), Jack Nickla (2008), Jimmy Morrell (2016), and DJ Trent (2018) will all be honored this year at Bellport’s Hall of Fame game in October.
“Stormin’” Norman Dillion was considered a key member of the 1980 team that went on to bring home the team’s first championship. He would also go on to play college football at the University of New Haven as a linebacker.
“(Dillon) was an absolute anchor on the offensive and defensive line for the Clippers in 1979 and again in 1980 capturing the program's first championship season,” read the press release.” (He) Paved the way for legendary running backs Paul Maurice and Rodney Cooke along with recording 138 tackles in the trenches as a leader for two seasons, Norman Dillon is a welcome addition to the Hall of Fame.”
Mike Pepe will be the second eldest member of this year's class and is one of three quarterbacks nominated for the Bellport Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
“Pepe was the Starting quarterback for back to back undefeated Suffolk County championships and an undefeated Long Island championship in 2005,” said the press release when discussing Pepe’s contributions to the program. “Mike passed for 2,125 yards and 25 touchdowns in his career ranked 5th and 2nd alltime respectively including an impressive 21-1 record spanning
two seasons powering the most dominant offense in program history.”
Pepe parlayed his high school gridiron success into a Division 1 opportunity at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York.
The second quarterback that will join Pepe in this year's Hall of Fame induction is none other than three sport star Jack Nickla.
While he was in high school, Nickla guided the Clippers to a Suffolk County Championship in 2007 while also garnering first team All-Long Island and third team All-State for his efforts.
“Jack led the team in scoring his senior year as quarterback and kicker,” read the press release.
“Nickla still has the second longest field goal in program history (43 yards) and ranks 15th in career passing yards (861). He also has the 4th longest passing touchdown (91 yards) in school history.”
Nickla was also a superstar on the Lacrosse field as he was first team All-Long Island and received a scholarship to play for the University of Albany where he was named second team All Conference in the America East in 2013. He also earned two varsity letters in Basketball as a member of the Clippers.
The final quarterback that will be a part of the 2023 Hall of Fame class will be dual threat Jimmy Morrell. Morell would go on to be named 7th team All- State and 2nd team All-Long Island as a member of the football team.
A true dual threat quarterback amassing 1,100 career rushing yards with 20 touchdowns ranking 29th and 15th all-time,” said the press release. “His 1,737 career passing yards including 18 touchdowns ranked 6th and 7th all-time. He also scored 132 career points ranking 16th alltime in program history.”
Morrell was one of the most electric athletes to hit the
gridiron for the Clippers as he – Like Nickla – was a two sport superstar who would go on to see great success in Lacrosse as well. He would go on to play Lacrosse at Stony Brook University where he would be named Academic All-Conference in 2020.
The final nominee for the Bellport Football Hall of Fame is former bell-cow running back DJ Trent. Trent was one of the county’s best running backs during his time in high school as he was named to the All-State
6th team.
“DJ Trent was a three year starting running back who ranks 4th in career rushing yards (2,318), 5th in career points scored (206), and 4th in career rushing touchdowns (29),” read the press release. “During his 2017 junior year, DJ scored four touchdowns in three separate games.”
The prolific Trent was also a two sport star as he would be named All-County in Track and
Field. He would go on to play a year at Nassau Community College before eventually transferring to SUNY Cortland where he has been a key contributor in the run game and on special teams.
The ceremony will take place on October 14th during Bellport's home game vs. Northport at 12pm. There will also be a reception after the game at Painter's Restaurant located at 416 South Country Road in Brookhaven.
The 2023 version of the New York Mets and Yankees have had New York sports fans wishing the summer was over as soon as possible, and next week they get their wish. Sure, technically the summer will still run for about another month, but the sports calendar says it's football season, and for troubled New York sports fans, they can't wait to see the leaves turn colors.
This Saturday night we got to watch the customary Giants and Jets preseason game, yet this version felt a little different. There have not been many times where the public has been in such optimistic anticipation for both New York city area football teams. The Jets are the darlings of the offseason and of the media craze. Aaron Rodgers, Hard Knocks, Garrett Wilson on the sidelines, Sauce and now Dalvin Cook all kept Gang Green fans entertained since the season
ended, but in a few short days the real test is upon them. Can the questionable offensive line hold up? Is Robert Salah in over his head? How much, if anything, has Rodgers lost? And a slew of other questions seem muted this year as the bright lights of the Manhattan skyline seem to be the only thing brighter than the Jets immediate
Before you get deep into this article, it’s time to ditch your conventional reasoning. There are some things I'm going to suggest here that are going to challenge the way you think conventionally. And I think that's a great idea. Sometimes you need to scrap that old way of thinking. And so I'm going to tell you to put some players on your bench that you may even think have value under all circumstances. It's time to take a look at some of the counting categories and realize what is the maximum number of points your roster is capable of. There are only five weeks left in the fantasy baseball season. In the dynasty league, I find myself trailing the league leader in stolen bases by 17. That puts me at second place in the league in that category. On the flip side the team in 3rd place trails me by 34 stolen bases. With five weeks left I would have to gain three plus stolen bases a week to gain that one last point to bring me to a 12 and lead the league. However a 34 stolen base lead is just about impossible to lose. So watch what I'm about to suggest.
If you have players on your
future.
Across the stadium they share the Giants are the quiet but deadly franchise, who are smiling coyly as others seem to look away. They have their own host of questions between Daniel Jones, Barkley's health, a re-tooled defense and receiving worries, but like the team that shares a stadium with
them, there is more hope than concern. Despite an offseason with Barkley being unhappy, he is in camp, signed and ready to go. Jones has had another year with a QB guru and there is no denying that Daboll and company are the coaches to bring it all together.
So, as we sit on the week's eve before the season begins we can
look at the glass in New York as an optimist or a pessimist. Is the glass half empty with question marks bubbling to the surface, surely to pop at some time, or is the glass half full, with the gleam in sports fans eyes we have not seen in a long time around these parts? One thing is for sure, both teams are hoping that glass is filled with champagne come playoff time.
to produce a ton of walks in the final five weeks of the season. So a responsible owner will run the queries in his league database searching for home runs and reasonable on base percentage for a left field replacement. You may even have one in house on your bench.
team that are one-dimensional, i.e. a guy that steals bases but doesn't hit for power, batting average or even a good on base percentage should be set and placed on your bench for the final five weeks of the season. And the player I'm talking about is Esteury Ruiz. Ruiz has stolen 49 bases this year and with five weeks left in the season wouldn't surprise me if he finishes with 55 to 60 steals. But guess what? I really don't need him to steal another base this season. Ruiz comes in
with a grand total of two home runs on the season. The chances of him hitting another one in the final five weeks doesn't look very good, considering that in 20 weeks of play he has put up a grand total of two home runs. I would rather put almost anyone else in my left field spot for this year’s stretch run than him. The on base percentage inning is no different. He has put up a 298 on base percentage this season in 20 weeks. It would be foolish of me to think that he is going
There are other onedimensional speed players that this could be applied to. Willi Castro, Myles Straw, Jon Berti, Jorge Mateo, Ji Hwan Bae and Travis Jankoski to name just a few. They should all be sat if you find yourself in this type of situation. And there are multiple sides to this coin. I once played in a league where the team that led the league in home runs had a total of home runs 100 higher than the nearest competitor. Yet he lacked team speed. With a lead of 100 home runs he could have sat one of those power hitters for a speedster. This is the type of balance you need to find across the categories.
It is not just applicable to the offense. In the same dynasty league I find myself tied with two other teams with 60 saves. The league leader has 67. Again there
are five weeks left to the season. The league leader will get 12 points. The other three of us are tied with 10 as there are 30 points available for slots 11-10-9. As I was trying to get myself higher in the save totals I went to a split of five starting pitchers to three relief pitchers. Most teams in the league use a split of six starting pitchers to two relief pitchers. One of my three relievers however is having a very shaky month of August. Will Smith has blown several saves and has surrendered quite a few home runs. It may not be worth my while to continue to use him as one of my three relief pitchers. The team that trails me has two less saves than the three of us tied at 60. I have decided to go with the split of six to two. The team trailing me only uses two closers. One of the teams tied with me is only using one at the moment. Devin Williams and Adbert Alzolay are the current closers with their teams and pitching well currently. It looks like I will get the maximum number of points using this configuration. That's what it comes down to this time of year. Maximizing your totals.
Every year is an important election year with candidates for town and county offices on the slate for 2023. The South Shore Press has scheduled interviews with the election hopefuls, both incumbents and challengers–and some current officials seeking higher office–and has put together an extensive Candidate Questionnaire to give the voters a detailed look at where the potential office holders stand on the issues important to them. The paper’s political coverage will continue through Election Day, November 7, and onward as the successful vote-getters function in their elected seats.
This is the top race countywide, with both parties staging well-funded candidates. On Row A will be Democrat David Calone, an East Setauket businessman who’s served on the Long Island Power Authority board and the Suffolk Planning Commission. Leading the ticket on the Republican side is Brookhaven Supervisor Edward Romaine of Center Moriches, a decades-long public servant who’s also been the county clerk and a Suffolk Legislator. Romaine has been cross-endorsed by the Conservatives, while his challenger has the support of the Working Families Party.
The county executive is Suffolk’s chief administrative officer responsible for a number of government departments, including Police, Parks, Public Works, Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services, Social Services, and Elections. The executive manages the county’s Operating and Capital budgets and is responsible for the hiring and supervision of county department heads. The executive proposes budgets and bills to the 18-member county legislature and has veto power over its decisions.
The top issues in the race this year are taxes and affordability, public safety and crime, and protecting the county’s drinking water and other natural resources. The successful candidate will succeed Steve Bellone, who is restricted to holding the office to three terms of four years each under Suffolk’s term limit law. The job pays $222,124 a year.
Here’s a rundown of this year’s ballot:Edward Romaine (R) David Calone (D)
The legislature is Suffolk’s governing body responsible for enacting laws, approving budgets, and overseeing public services. It plays an oversight role in public safety, healthcare, education, community development, and other essential programs. Legislators serve two-year terms with a limit of 12 years and earn an annual base salary of $100,000.
Republican Catherine Stark, a Riverhead native currently serving as an aide to the incumbent, Al Krupski, is competing against Democrat Catherine Kent of Calverton, a former Riverhead Town council member.
Republican Manuel Vilar, a 38-year retired veteran of the New York State Park Police from East Hampton, is running against Democrat Ann Welker, a Southampton resident concerned with water quality and climate change.
Former Assemblyman Steve Englebright, who lost his seat last year, is stepping up to the plate to run for the Suffolk Legislature, where he also served back in 1983. The East Setauket Democrat is being challenged by Republican Anthony Figliola, also an East Setauket resident who’s spent the last 21 years working in both the public and private sectors.
Republican Chad Lennon, an attorney and Marine Corps Reserves Intelligence Officer from Rocky Point, is up against Democrat Dorothy Cavalier, a Mt. Sinai resident who brings four years of Chief of Staff experience in the 6th LD to the table.
Republican incumbent James Mazzarella, a William Floyd High School and SUNY Maritime College graduate from Moriches, is squaring off against Democrat Thad O’Neil of Brookhaven, who is dedicated to community service and environmental issues.
Prior to his election as a legislator, Selden’s Nick Caracappa, a Republican, served 34 years with the Suffolk County Water Authority. His Democrat opponent, Tim Hall, has not released any details regarding his campaign.
Incumbent Republican Dominick Thorne, a former EMT-critical care tech from Patchogue, is facing off against Democrat Ryan McGarry, also of Patchogue, who serves as Chief of Staff for Suffolk AME.
The current legislator, Republican Anthony Piccirillo, a Holtsville resident with extensive private-sector experience, is running against Democrat Heather Gallagher, who has not provided any biographical information.
Republican Leslie Kennedy, a trained nurse from Nesconset, is running against Denis Graziano of Centereach. The wife of county Comptroller John Kennedy, she has previously served as an aide to various legislators.
Incumbent Republican Rob Trotta is up for re-election without an opponent. Before joining the legislature, Trotta served 25 years in the Suffolk County Police Department, retiring as a detective. He also spent over a decade on the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force and received prestigious awards such as “Cop of the Year” in 1993 and “Detective of the Year” in 2001.
Brookhaven Town is divided into six Councilmatic Districts, each with an elected representative who can max out at three four-year terms. The officials make up the Town Council which, with the supervisor, makes up the town board. The council members make decisions on town-wide issues while also focusing on the needs of their individual districts. They also function as Town Trustees with authority over town waterways and bay bottoms. This year, all of the Republican candidates are running on the Conservative line, while all of the Democrats have Working Families Party backing,
The supervisor is the chief fiscal officer for the town who oversees departments, personnel, and budgets. Elected town-wide, the supervisor leads the town board, which is responsible for zoning, planning, and land use decisions, as well as stewardship over the town’s waterways and natural resources. The supervisor manages Parks, Waste Management, Public Safety, Fire Prevention, and Building, and the Law Department, as well as a number of advisory committees. Brookhaven’s top official makes $131,000 annually and is limited to three four-year terms.
Brookhaven’s headline race is seeing some interesting dynamics this year as the Republican looking to succeed Supervisor Edward Romaine is his deputy, Daniel Panico, who also serves as a town councilman. Panico was originally going up against former Port Jefferson Village Mayor Margot Garant, but she dropped out, citing health issues. She was replaced in the supervisor’s slot by the Democrats with Lillian Clayman, also of Port Jefferson, who’s an adjunct professor of labor and industrial relations at SUNY Old Westbury. Clayman, a former mayor of Hamden, Ct., has also been the leader of the Brookhaven Democrat Party and is also on the Working Families line. Panico, of Center Moriches, was first elected to the town council in 2010 and holds a degree from Touro Law School. He worked previously in the county clerk’s office and was a member of the town planning board. He is also running with Conservative support.
Running to stay in charge of Brookhaven’s roads is Highway Superintendent Daniel Losquadro, a Republican and Shoreham resident who has served in the office since 2013. Going up against him is Democrat Michael Kaplan of Coram, a 30-year veteran of the Islip and Huntington town highway departments who served 10 years with the Army. The key issue in the race is who can re-pave and maintain the town’s highway system in the most cost-effective manner. The job carries a four-year term, and office holders are limited to three terms.
Losquadro is a graduate of the State University of New York at Stony Brook, having earned a B.A. degree in history. For nearly a decade before taking office, he worked as a senior property claims estimator for State Farm Insurance. He is a graduate of Shoreham-Wading River High School. Prior to his election as superintendent, Losquadro was a state assemblyman and Suffolk legislator.
Brookhaven has about 3,500 lane miles of road in an area larger than Nassau County. The highway superintendent manages 300 employees and a budget exceeding $110 million. The department is responsible for keeping town roads smooth through paving and drainage projects, pothole repair, and street sweeping, as well as maintaining sidewalks, medians, and intersections. In the winter, the department must keep the roads safe through snow plowing, sanding, and salt applications.
Louis Marcoccia’s name is on everyone’s property tax bill as the town Receiver of Taxes, a position he’s held since 2007. The East Setauket resident is running for another four-year term as the RepublicanConservative candidate and is being challenged by Democrat Tricia L. Chiaramonte of Manorville. Prior to his service, Marcoccia was a businessman with expertise in the technology field.
The tax office is responsible for collecting residential and commercial property taxes for all levels of local government, including the town, county, and special districts. The office has moved toward online systems, with many tax payments made through a property taxpayer’s mortgage company.
The only town council seat held by a Democrat, District 1 will see a race this year between incumbent John Kornreich and Republican-Conservative Gary Bodenburg. First elected in 2021, Kornreich served on the Three Village Board of Education for 14 years and led the Three Village Civic Association for seven. The Stony Brook resident has also been on the executive boards of the Boys and Girls Club of Suffolk County and the North Shore Montessori School.
Bodenburg, of Port Jefferson Station, has been a special education teacher since 2003 and also works as assistant principal for the Western Suffolk BOCES Summer School Program. He holds an associate degree from Suffolk Community College and Elementary and Special Education Certification from St. Joseph’s College. He also earned a Masters and Educational Leadership Certification from Stony Brook University and defended a doctoral dissertation in 2016 at St. John’s University.
Incumbent Jane Bonner is facing a challenge by Democrat Carol Russell, a registered nurse and attorney from Coram who represents doctors and other medical staff in malpractice suits. A registered Conservative running with GOP support, Bonner has served on the town board since 2007. She has been a Rocky Point resident for over 30 years, serving as Rocky Point Civic Association President, Rocky Point School Board Member, and as an aide to town Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro when he was a county legislator.
Over in District 5, Councilman Neil Foley is fending off a challenge by Democrat Francis Salazar, a Copaigue special education teacher who has served as assistant principal in the Middle School for the last four years. Foley, a Republican, was first elected in 2014, having served on the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals. From Patchogue, he is a senior vice president of sales for New York Cancer and Blood Specialists and has been active with the Patchogue-Medford Youth Organization and Bayport-Blue Point Little League.
Salazar, also of Patchogue, was elected this year to the PatchogueMedford Board of Education. He holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Manhattanville College, as well as a Bachelors in History from SUNY Oneonta.
Councilman Neil Manzella is a new face on the town board, having been elected in April to fill the seat of Kevin LaValle after he was elected town clerk. The Selden resident is an IT specialist who worked at the William Floyd and Longwood school districts and the Middle Country Library. The Republican also worked at the Suffolk Board of Elections and the town Assessor’s office. His opponent is no stranger to the race. Democrat Alyson Bass went up against him in the April election and the Ronkonkoma resident is geared up for a rematch. Bass is a lawyer in the Suffolk County Attorney’s Office and has also run her own practice. She is a graduate of Longwood High School, Cornell University, and St. John’s University School of Law. She has been a CYO and SYAG coach and a PTA mom.
Republican Michael Loguercio has held the 4th District post since 2015 and is running up against Democrat Cameron Trent in his re-election bid. He has over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry and was a journalist for a risk management trade publication for more than 10 years. Also running as a Conservative, the Ridge resident served on the Longwood School Board, including four years as president.
Trent is currently working in the Babylon supervisor’s office as a Citizens Services Representative. He’s from Bellport and is currently on the South Country School Board as vice president and was previously on the staff of county Legislator Rob Calarco.
With Councilman Dan Panico running for town supervisor, the 6th District has an open seat with Republican Karen Dunne and Democrat Kerry Spooner going up against each other. Dunne, an attorney from Manorville, is a former town planning board member and Eastport-South Manor Board of Education trustee. She is the president of the Manorville Chamber of Commerce and was on the board of directors of Aid to the Developmentally Disabled, Inc.
Spooner is the founder of the Sound Justice Initiative and has taught college-level courses at Suffolk’s jails. The Calverton resident has worked with the county Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs. She has a Bachelors in Political Science and Philosophy from the University of Massachusetts and a Masters from New York University, as well as a Doctorate Degree in English from Stony Brook University.
The clerk race features Democrat William Holst, a Smithtown native with a background in local business and military service, and Republican Councilman Tom McCarthy, a veteran representative since 1998, also serving as deputy supervisor. The clerk has custody of all town records, books, and papers and is designated by state law as the town records management and filing officer.
A diverse lineup of candidates brings their unique experiences and visions for the community to the race. As a Republican incumbent, Lisa Inzerillo has focused on effective governance, stable taxes, and the well-being of Smithtown’s residents since her election to the Town Board in 2015. She has a broad scope of responsibilities, including everything from budgeting to public safety, aiming to foster a safe and prosperous community in the town.
Tom Lohmann, another Republican incumbent, is a native of Smithtown with a distinguished 20- year career in the New York Police Department. Notably, he earned commendations for excellent and meritorious actions, including his role as a 9/11 first responder. Before joining the Town Board, he was an investigator for the Suffolk District Attorney’s Insurance Crimes Bureau.
Running on the Democratic side is Maria Scheuring, a 15-year Smithtown resident with deep community ties. A practicing lawyer for 25 years and a Fordham Law School graduate, she also serves as the Executive Director for the “Alive After Five” music festival in Patchogue. Another Democrat, St. James resident Sarah Tully, comes in with high-level corporate experience. She is a frequent critic of the current board’s fiscal policies and is campaigning on a platform of restoring fiscal conservatism to Smithtown. She focuses on reducing unnecessary spending and limiting development that she views as harmful to the community.
In December 2017, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”). This tax bill was an overhaul of the tax law affecting individuals and businesses in many ways. One of these changes substantially increased the Federal estate tax exemption.
At the time the law was inked, the Federal Basic Exclusion Amount for an estate was $5.49 million ($5 million, indexed for inflation). This meant that no taxes would be owed on the estate of a person dying in that year with a taxable estate less than that. For estates over that amount, the overage was taxed at 40%.
The TCJA stated that for deaths in 2018, the exemption increased to $10 million, indexed for inflation. Currently, in 2023, the estate tax exemption is $12.92 million. This is an individual
exemption, so a married couple enjoys $25.84 million between them.
While this increased exemption is helpful for many families, it is not a long-term solution. The law expanded the exemption but only for a limited period of time. Barring any action by Congress to extend this further, this and other provisions of the TCJA sunset at the end of 2025. As a result, where an individual dies on or after January 1, 2026, the exemption will return to the pre-2018 scheme of $5 million, indexed for inflation (likely to be just under $7 million). For single persons with less than $7 million in assets, and couples with less than $14 million between them, there is no cause for concern when it comes to Federal estate taxes, even after the sunset.
With this looming sunset of the exemption amount, couples
and single individuals may be able to take advantage now of the higher exemption amount with proper planning. An alphabet soup of tools are available including SLATs, GRATs, IDGTS, etc. The general idea being to remove assets from your taxable estate while you are alive, utilizing your expanded exemption, thus reducing the taxable assets at the time of death
and passing more along to your beneficiaries. There are also planning mechanisms for the charitably inclined that will serve to further reduce one’s taxable estate.
For New Yorkers, the State estate tax, currently $6.58 million, has been the larger concern. Unlike the Federal, the New York exemption is not
“portable” between spouses, meaning that the exemption of the first spouse to die cannot be saved to be used when the second spouse dies. Planning must be done to utilize each spouse’s exemption at the time of their respective deaths.
Not all planning opportunities will suit your individual circumstances. Determining the proper estate planning tools will depend upon your family structure, asset structure, and intended beneficiaries. You should speak with your estate planning attorney today to better plan for tomorrow.
Britt Burner, Esq. is a Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning, Trusts & Estates and Elder. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from Manhattan to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, New York City and East Hampton.
St. Veronica is the noted woman who, moved by the sight of the condemned prisoner Jesus on the way to Golgotha for his crucifixion, broke through military lines to wipe his battered, bloody face. The result is the imprint made by the co-mingling of blood and perspiration on her veil. For this reason, she has been canonized by the Roman Catholic Church a saint with her feast day celebrated on July 12th.
A saint is a holy person believed to have a special relationship to the Almighty God, because of moral excellence. The concept is widespread throughout the world across all religions, both ancient and contemporary. Various types of spiritual men and women have been recognized as saints, both by popular acclaim and official pronouncement. Organized religion has held them up for us as role models. Their influence on the religious masses continues to be of considerable significance.
In the case of each of these a specific kind of relationship
with God is entailed. Seers for example have an inspirational vision of the future. Prophets proclaim a revelation, be it predictions of the future or commentary of the present. Monks and nuns lead spiritual lives in accordance with ascetic regulations that they generally observe for their lifetime.
In Roman Catholicism for a man or woman to become a saint requires the process of Canonization which necessitates proof that the candidate has performed miracles during their lifetime. Veronica is one such individual held up to us as a role model.
In Christian traditions she is venerated at the sixth station in the mediative Stations of the Cross. Her imprinted veil is reverently referred to as the Veil of Veronica, or since it is believed to be kept under glass in France, the Shroud of Turin. There are however several such existing images on veils purported to be the original relic, or an early copy of it. The account of St. Veronica is thought to be a
legend originally derived from Historia eccleiastica written 312-324 AD by Eusebius of Caesarea. Eusebius tells us that at Caesarea Phillipi there lived
a woman whom Christ healed of a hemorrhage as reported by Matthew in the 9th chapter of his Gospel. In the apocryphal Acts of Pilate from the 4th—5th
century this woman came to be identified as Veronica. Later the tradition held that Christ gave the healed Veronica a miraculous cloth, which was allegedly used to cure the emperor Tiberius of leprosy.
This cloth was eventually understood to be the Veil of Veronica. In France, Veronica was reportedly married to the convert Zaccheus the tax collector. In the Bordeaux district, she is believed to have brought relics of the Blessed Virgin to Soulac-sur-Mer, where she died and was buried. By some accounts the name Veronica itself is a fanciful derivation from the words Latin words vera icon meaning “true image,” which was originally used for the kerchief and later applied to the legendary woman Veronica.
We have very little details on the life of this venerated saint but based on what has been written about her, we should look to her for the strength, courage, and patience to lead a pure and virtuous life.
In mid-August of this year, Margaret Neff, one of the nicest people I’ve ever known, went home to be with The Lord. It was such a privilege to enjoy a close friendship with her—a friendship that lasted for twenty-two years…How deeply she’ll be missed!
Someone who always wore a sunny smile and had a twinkle in her eye, Margaret, was a gentle, softspoken woman who possessed a host of virtuous traits that I was extremely proud to compile in this week’s entry, an entry I took great pains to present as accurately as possible. My dear friend was a person whose life reflected a soul committed to following a Godly path to the very
best of her ability. Of good moral standing, truthful and non-hypocritical, she always stressed the good in people and if wronged never retaliated in any way—ever quick to not only forgive but to forget. A very humble woman as well, she constantly put others first and never took advantage of anyone— devoid of even one jealous bone in her body. Margaret was also a deeply compassionate person who gave generously of her often scant means as well
as of her time, energy—and was someone gifted in the art of achieving successful resolutions to many a challenging conflict— utilizing her affectionate nature as well as her enviable patience to listen well and to tactfully render healing advice.
I could still go on, but due to space restrictions will conclude with yet another highly admirable side to her: that of a non-complainer who bravely bore whatever trials life threw at her, content in whatever situation she would find herself—working hard and thanking The Lord for the smallest of Blessings!
God bless this beautiful soul worthy of hearing the following words of Our Savior: “Well done, oh good and faithful servant!”
A.Kruk Owner Matthew Kruk Licensed Funeral Director
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, ISANTHES, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. JOSEPH TIROTTA, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 29, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 19, 2023 at 10:30 a.m., premises known as 17 Kent Place, Mastic, NY 11950 a/k/a 13 Kent Place, Mastic, NY 11950. 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 786.00, Block 06.00 and Lot 013.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $394,510.82 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 600981/2019. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale.
Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee
Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 105, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff
L15387 – 8/16/2023, 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023 & 9/6/2023
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff AGAINST
MICHAEL SIENKIEWICZ
AS TRUSTEE OF THE PATRICIA SIENKIEWICZ
FAMILY TRUST, ET AL.,
Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 6, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 12, 2023 at 4:00PM, premises known as 34 Hackensack Road, 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 Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200
Section 981.90 Block 10.00
Lot 038.000 FKA District
0209 Section 028.00 Block
01.00 Lot 038.000 FKA
District 0200 Section 981.90 Block 06.00 Lot 038.000. Approximate amount of judgment $179,400.24 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #606853/2022. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time.
Peter R. McGreevy, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-000075 76748
L15400 – 8/9/2023, 8/16/2023, 8/23/2023 & 8/30/2023
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST STEVEN LAMPITT, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 22, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 13, 2023 at 12:30PM, premises known as 1128 WILLIAM FLOYD PARKWAY, SHIRLEY, NY 11967. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 783.000, Block 05.00, Lot 021.001. Approximate amount of judgment $293,251.00 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #623161/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time.
Brooke Breen, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 19-006900 76921
L15415 –
9/6/2023
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK
HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE DEUTSCHE ALT-A SECURITIES, INC. MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATE SERIES
2007-OA4, Plaintiff - against - ROSEMARY IMBESI, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 1, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on the 7th day of September, 2023 at 10:00 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Patchogue, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk.
Premises known as 240 North Ocean Avenue, Patchogue, New York 11772. (District: 0204, Section: 005.00, Block: 04.00, Lot: 029.000)
Approximate amount of lien $707,151.36 plus interest and costs.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 607523/2016. Daniel J. Murphy, Esq., Referee.
McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409
For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: July 5, 2023
closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.
L15419–8/9/2023,8/16/2023, 8/23/2023&8/30/2023
DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE
ASSETS TRUST 2007-2, MORTGAGE-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-2, Plaintiff AGAINST ORLANDO PEREZ, et al. Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on January 12, 2023. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 13, 2023 at 12:00 PM premises known as 30 Beacon Street, Shirley, NY 11967.
Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Suffolk County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Shirley in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 967.00, Block 05.00 and Lot 022.000.
Court of New York, Suffolk County. RON KING CORP., Plaintiff, -againstRAYMOND NEIGHLEY
A/K/A RAYMOND
NEIGHLEY, JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND S. NEIGHLEY A/K/A RAYMOND
NEIGHLEY, SR.; JACQUELINE CORDES, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND S. NEIGHLEY A/K/A RAYMOND
NEIGHLEY, SR.; LENORE WIDMARK, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND S. NEIGHLEY A/K/A
&
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent
Approximate amount of judgment $370,001.79 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #619107/2017.
Brooke J. Breen, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLP - Attorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747
L15428 – 8/16/2023, 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023 & 9/6/2023
RAYMOND NEIGHLEY, SR.; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND S. NEIGHLEY A/K/A RAYMOND NEIGHLEY, SR., any and all persons unknown to Plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to Plaintiff; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, Defendants. Index No. 207571/2022.
Mortgaged Premises: 58 North Howells Point Road Bellport, NY 11713 District: 0202 Section: 04.00 Block:
05.00 Lot: 037.000 To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above
entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $469,342.50 and interest, recorded in the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on June 9, 2005 in Book M00021067, Page 079, covering the premises known as 58 North Howells Point Road, Bellport, NY 11713. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located.. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite
160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.
L15429 – 8/9/2023, 8/16/2023, 8/23/2023, & 8/30/2023
NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Suffolk
Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff
AGAINST
Lawrence B. Sobel, Tamara E. Sobel, et al, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated June 29, 2022 and entered on July 19, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on September 20, 2023 at 2:30 PM premises known as 3 Marion Court, Center Moriches, NY 11934. 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: 911.00, BLOCK: 03.00, LOT: 002.00, District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $699,125.03 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 029764/2012.
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.
William F. Andes, Jr., Referee
FRENKEL LAMBERT
WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP
53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706
L15430 – 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023 & 9/13/2023
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST INC., ASSET-BACKED
PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AMC1, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, V.
VIJAIA SURAJ, ET. AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated April 4, 2022, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, wherein CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST INC., ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AMC1, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and VIJAIA SURAJ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on September 21, 2023 at 9:15AM, premises known as 116 PHYLLIS DRIVE, PATCHOGUE, NY 11772: District 0200, Section 975.50, Block 03.00, Lot 036.000:
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT PATCHOGUE, TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609273/2018. Brian Egan, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT
TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
L15437 – 8/16/2023, 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023 & 9/6/2023
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST GREGORY ROSS AKA GREGORY J. ROSS, MELISSA ROSS, ET AL., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 1, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on October 3, 2023 at 9:00AM, premises known as 105 PAULA BOULEVARD, SELDEN, NY 11784. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 518.00, Block 04.00, Lot 009.000. Approximate amount of judgment $321,105.34 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616158/2018. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time. Donna England, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 19-000885 77104
L15441 – 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023 & 9/20/2023
Notice of formation of STAR VENDING SERVICE, LLC, a limited liability company.
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on AUGUST 10, 2023. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to CELIA ALLEN 45 OAKWOOD DRIVE, SHIRLEY, NY
11967. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
L15442 – 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023, 9/20/2023, & 9/27/2023
Christopher Staker, 1 North Country Road, Wading River, New York 11792, has made application to the Town of Brookhaven Planning Board for approval of a site plan for construction of a 3,350 sf warehouse/office building with Planning Board special permit for outdoor or overnight parking of registered vehicles, requiring variances for parking in the front yard setback. This proposal is known as C. Staker Remodeling Inc. @ Manorville, located at the northeast corner of North Street and Moriches-Middle Island Road, Manorville, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York and described as follows:
NORTH: Now or Formerly MANORVILLE INC;
WEST: Now or Formerly SHIRLEY LONG ISLAND INC;
SOUTH: Now or Formerly SHIRLEY LONG ISLAND INC;
EAST: Now or Formerly CRUZ GEORGINO G JR
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 Monday, September 11, 2023 at 4:00 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: August 14, 2023
Steven J. Wilutis, Esq., Chairman
L15447–8/30/2023
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
SUFFOLK COUNTY
HUDSON CITY SAVINGS
BANK, Plaintiff against ABRAHAM L. TURPIN
A/K/A ABRAHAM
TURPIN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 20, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 27, 2023 at 10:30 AM. Premises known as 105 Carlton Drive East, Shirley, New York 11967. District 0200 Sec 615.00 Block 02.00 Lot 013.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $494,834.06 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 609334/2015. Cash will not be accepted at the sale. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.
Pamela J. Greene, Esq., Referee
2154-000927
L15448 – 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023 & 9/13/2023
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, Plaintiff AGAINST
Aaron Ruff a/k/a Aaron G. Ruff, Individually and on behalf of the Estate of Millinee Thomas; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 15, 2021 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 21, 2023 at 9:30AM, premises known as 108 Wilson Avenue, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Middle Island, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200 Section 497.00 Block 02.00 Lot 006.000. Approximate amount of judgment $328,134.19 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 612283/2015. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District.
Brian T. Egan, Esq., Referee
LOGS Legal Group LLP
f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: June 2, 2023
L15449 – 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023 & 9/13/2023
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK STATE OF NEW YORK MORTGAGE AGENCY, Plaintiff - againstMELISSA D. BAUER, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 18, 2020. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on the 20th day of September, 2023 at 9:00 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon
erected, situate, lying and being in Patchogue, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.
Premises known as 138 Saxton Street, Patchogue, New York 11772.
(District: 0200, Section: 954.00, Block: 04.00, Lot: 029.000)
Approximate amount of lien $380,612.34 plus interest and costs.
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 607118/2019.
Glenn Patrick Warmuth, Esq., Referee.
McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409
Dated: July 15, 2023
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.
L15451 – 8/23/2023, 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023 & 9/13/2023
Ron Yakuel, Managing Member, September Morning LLC, 5 Plant Avenue, Hauppauge, NY 11788, has made application to the Town of Brookhaven Planning Board for approval of a site plan for proposed construction of a 78,400 sf industrial warehouse/distribution center and associated site improvements on a vacant wooded lot, involving special permit(s) and variance(s). This proposal is known as September Morning, LLC @Shirley, located on the
N/S Ramsay Road, 494.34’ E/O Roned Road, in Shirley, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York and described as follows:
NORTH: Now or Formerly EXHALE PROPERTIES LLC; SURF LAND USA LLC; 49 NATCON OWNER LLC;
WEST: Now or Formerly 49 NATCON OWNER LLC; FOR ACRES REALTY LLC;
SOUTH: Ramsay Road;
EAST: Now or Formerly BR US HOLDINGS II LLC.
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 Monday, September 11, 2023, at 4:00 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: August 11, 2023
Steven J. Wilutis, Esq., Chairman
L15457–8/30/2023
SUFFOLK COUNTY NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS
The County Comptroller has received the Tax Rolls from the town tax receiver, indicating unpaid taxes therein. Unless such unpaid taxes with interest and accrued penalties are paid on or before August 31, 2023, the property against which said taxes are levied will be advertised for tax sale that is to be held on December 8, 2023.
The tax rolls will remain open for examination in the Suffolk County Comptroller’s office in Riverhead. Any taxpayer interested may send a brief description of his property to the County Comptroller and the amount of the unpaid tax, if any, will be forwarded to him.
(Note: Tax Sale advertising for the 2023 sale will be at the rate of $20.00 per item, collectible after August 31, 2023.)
JOHN M. KENNEDY, JR. SUFFOLK COUNTY COMPTROLLER
L15458 – 8/23/2023 & 8/30/2023
AMENDMENTS AND CHANGES TO THE ZONING ORDINANCES OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN CHAPTER 85, ARTICLE VII CONCERNING THE FOLLOWING: LI WEST REALTY INC. FOR AMENDMENT OF RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS & SPECIAL PERMITS ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN MEDFORD, NY
ADOPTED BY THE BROOKHAVEN TOWN BOARD – MEETING:
JUNE 30, 2022
Resolution of Adoption –Granting the Application of LI West Realty Inc. for a Special Permit for Motor Vehicle Fueling Station, Special Permit for Convenience Store Accessory to Motor Vehicle Fueling Station, Waivers of Special Permit Criteria and Amendment of Restrictive Covenants on Property Located on New York State Route 112 in Medford, New York
WHEREAS, on June 30, 2022, a duly advertised public hearing was held to consider the application of LI West Realty Inc. for a special permit for motor vehicle fueling station, special permit for convenience store accessory to motor vehicle fueling station, waivers of special permit criteria, and amendment of restrictive covenants contained in a Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions dated August 2, 2018, and recorded with the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on February 19, 2019 under
Liber 13001/Page 351 on a parcel of property located on the west side of New York State Route 112, south of Granny Road, in Medford, New York, further identified by Suffolk County Tax Map Number 0200-57400-0100002000; and WHEREAS, after due consideration and deliberation; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven that the above application for special permit for motor vehicle fueling station, special permit for convenience store accessory to motor vehicle fueling station, waivers of special permit criteria and amendment of restrictive covenants is hereby approved subject to the following: 1. The following covenants and restrictions contained in a Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions dated August 2, 2018, and recorded with the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on February 19, 2019 under Liber 13001/Page 351 are repealed in their entirety:
1. Pursuant to Town Code Section 85-82, a land use intensification mitigation fee in the amount of $13,026.00 shall be submitted at the time of final site plan approval. 2. A minimum 20’ wide landscape area shall be provided along the southern property line. 3. A building permit shall be obtained and construction shall commence by November 30, 2019.
4. Elevations shall be in substantial compliance with drawings prepared by Charles W. Southard, revision dated May 22, 2017, drawing number A-2, as presented.
5. Seating, restaurant, and take-out restaurant uses are prohibited. 6. A minimum of one electric charging station shall be installed on site. 7. Maximum building size shall be 2,400 square feet. Conditions 1. Pursuant to Town Code Section 85467, redemption of 0.4 Pine Barrens Credit is required for convenience store building area in excess of 1,500 square feet. 2. The submission of 50% of the land use intensification mitigation fee in the amount of $6,513.00 shall be submitted prior to effectuating the zoning per Town Code Section 85-82.F. 3. The applicant must submit proof, to the satisfaction of the Town Attorneys’ Office,
that the covenants and restrictions contained in a Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions dated August 2, 2018, and recorded with the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on February 19, 2019 under Liber 13001/ Page 351 have been repealed in their entirety. 4. The applicant must submit proof, to the satisfaction of the Town Attorney’s Office, that the covenants and restrictions, approved as to form and substance, referenced below, have been filed with the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office.
Covenants 1. Submission of the outstanding balance of the land use intensification mitigation fee in the amount of $6,513.00 shall be a condition of final site plan approval per Town Code Section 85-82.F. 2. A minimum 20’ wide landscape area shall be provided along the southerly property line.
3. A building permit shall be obtained and construction shall commence by June 30, 2024. 4. The concept plan and renderings designed by Chris M. Tartaglia with latest revision date of January 5, 2022, shall be in substantial compliance with exception to the canopy. The canopy columns of the fueling station shall be the same façade and color of the building, the roof of the canopy shall be a hip or gamble roof with matching color roof shingles. 5. Seating, restaurant, and take-out restaurant uses are prohibited. 6. A minimum of one electric charging station shall be installed on site. 7. Maximum building size shall be 2,998 square feet. RESOLVED that the following waivers of special permit criteria are approved:
1. Brookhaven Town Code Section 85467.B.(3): A maximum of 750 square feet of building area shall be devoted to the retail sale and display area, and the total building area shall not exceed 1,500 square feet: 1,500 square feet total building area permitted; 2,998 square feet approved.
2. Brookhaven Town Code Section 85-467.B.(3): A maximum of 750 square feet of building area shall be devoted to the retail sale and display area, and the total building area shall not exceed 1,500 square feet: 750 square feet maximum retail sale and display area permitted; 1,800
square feet approved.
3. Brookhaven Town Code Section 85-467(B) (7): Buffers and plantings in accordance with the land development standards, except that the rear yard setback shall be 40 feet: 25 foot buffer required along Granny Road or State Route 112; 0 foot buffer approved.
4. Brookhaven Town Code Section 85-467(G)(4) - A motor vehicle fueling station shall be prohibited within 500 feet from any lot line bounding an area of public assembly, such as a hospital, church, library, playground, school, community center or theater: 250 feet from cemetery and 400 feet from amusement center approved.
5. Brookhaven Town Code Section 85-467(G) (9): Screening. Buffers and fencing shall be provided in accordance with land development standards: 25 foot buffer required along Granny Road or State Route 112; 0 foot buffer approved. and be it further RESOLVED, that the Town Board, as Lead Agency, has determined that pursuant to 6 New York Codes, Rules and Regulations Part 617.3 and 617.6, the proposed action is deemed to be an Unlisted Action for which a Negative Declaration has been issued.
DATED: AUGUST 21, 2023
AT: FARMINGVILLE, NEW YORK STATE OF NEW YORK) COUNTY OF SUFFOLK)
I, KEVIN J. LAVALLE, Town Clerk of Brookhaven, State of New York, do hereby certify that the annexed foregoing is a true copy of the amendments and changes to the Code of the Town of Brookhaven Chapter 85 Article VII which amendment and change was duly adopted by a motion of the Town Board on the 30TH day of June 2022 as herein above set forth as the same appears in the minutes of said meeting on file in my Office. IN TESTIMONY WHERE OF, I have hereunto set my hand and annexed the seal of the said Town the 21st day of August 2023.
KEVIN J. LAVALLE TOWN CLERK TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN
L15468–8/30/2023
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLEY AS TRUSTEE OF CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2018-RP2, Plaintiff against NYBD VENTURES, INC., et al Defendant(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered May 1, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on October 3, 2023 at 10:30 AM.
Premises known as 7 Austin Street, Bellport, NY 11713. District 0200 Sec 899.00 Block 04.00 Lot 007.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $367,146.25 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 611018/2021.
The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.
Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee AYSN30
L15469 – 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023, & 9/20/2023
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
DEUTSCHE BANK
NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
2005-1, V.
AMPARO LARA A/K/A
LARA AMPARO A/K/A
AMPARO G. LARA, ET. AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated September 25, 2018, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST
2005-1 is the Plaintiff and AMPARO LARA A/K/A LARA AMPARO A/K/A
AMPARO G. LARA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738 on October 3, 2023 at 10:00AM, premises known as 130 AUBORN AVENUE, SHIRLEY, NY 11967: District 0200, Section 783.00, Block 04.00, Lot 024.000:
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT SOUTH HAVEN IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BROOKHAVEN COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612930/2017. Daniel Panico, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
L15470 – 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023, & 9/20/2023
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK
WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR SECURITIZED ASSET BACKED RECEIVABLES
LLC TRUST 2004OP2, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-OP2, Plaintiff, Against RICHARD SCHMITT A/K/A RICHARD H. SCHMITT A/K/A RICHARD H. SCHMITT JR., et al.,
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/10/2021, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 10/4/2023 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 51 Sherwood Drive, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, And Described As Follows:
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.
District 0200 Section 978.80
Block 07.00 Lot 067.000
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $215,786.23 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 603154/2019
Daniel James Murphy, Esq., Referee.
MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 MIDLAND AVENUE, SUITE 205, PORT CHESTER. NY 10573
Dated: 7/26/2023 File
Number: 18-302855 RS
L15471 – 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023, & 9/20/2023
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to Section 64 of Town Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of
the Town of Brookhaven at One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York, on September 18, 2023 at 2:30 P.M. and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny.gov/meeting to approve the granting of a License Agreement to The Incorporated Village of Port Jefferson for the leasing of the Town property known as Centennial Park in Port Jefferson, New York, for an additional ten (10) year period.
At such public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.
KEVIN J. LAVALLE, TOWN CLERK
TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN
Dated: August 17, 2023 Farmingville, New York
L15472–8/30/2023
TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Bids will be received and publicly opened and read aloud in the Town of Brookhaven Town Hall Lobby located at the Brookhaven Town Office Complex, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York, 11738, for the following project on the date as indicated at 11:00 am:
BID #23085
TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN
LANDFILL CELL 6 REMOVAL OF EXISTING TEMPORARY GEOSYNTHETIC LEACHATE AND ODOR CONTROL SYSTEM
BID DUE DATE: SEPTEMBER 14, 2023
A non-mandatory prebid site visit will be held on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Town of Brookhaven Landfill located at 350 Horseblock Road, Brookhaven, NY 11719.
Specifications for the abovereferenced bid will be available beginning August 31, 2023.
Preferred Method
• Access website: Municipal
Market | Brookhaven, NY (brookhavenny.gov):
click on link for Bids.
• Follow directions to register and download document.
• Questions must be submitted in writing to the following e-mail: PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov
The Town of Brookhaven reserves the right to reject and declare invalid any or all bids and to waive any informalities or irregularities in the proposals received, all in the best interests of the Town.
The Town of Brookhaven welcomes and encourages minority and women-owned businesses and HUD Section 3 businesses to participate in the bidding process.
Town of Brookhaven Purchasing Division
Kathleen C. Koppenhoefer, Deputy Commissioner (631) 451-6252
L15473–8/30/2023
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed Bids will be received, publicly opened and read aloud at 11:00 a.m. in the Town Hall Lobby of the Town of Brookhaven, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, for the following item(s) on the dates indicated:
Bid #23086 – Purchase of New Cold Weather Outdoor Safety Shower with Eye Wash Station--September 13, 2023
Bid #23083 – Western Plow & Good Roads Plow – Assemblies, Parts & Installation---September 14, 2023
Specifications for the abovereferenced bids will be available beginning August 31, 2023.
Preferred Method
• Access website: Municipal Market | Brookhaven, NY (brookhavenny.gov): click on link for Bids.
• Follow directions to register and download document.
• Questions must be submitted in writing to the following e-mail: PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov
The Town of Brookhaven reserves the right to reject and declare invalid any or all bids and to waive any informalities or irregularities in the proposals received, all in the best interests of the Town. The Town of Brookhaven welcomes and encourages minorities and women-owned businesses and HUD Section 3 businesses to participate in the bidding process.
Further information can be obtained by calling (631) 451-6252
Kathleen C. Koppenhoefer Deputy Commissioner TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN L15474–8/30/2023SUMMONS–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK – US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, -againstTHE UNKNOWN HEIRSAT- LAW, NEXT-OFKIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENT ANTHONY BISCARDI, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; ALYSSA BISCARDI; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; STATE OF NEW YORK; CAPITAL ONE BANK USA, NA; MIDLAND CREDIT MANAGEMENT INC.; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT); "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #10" inclusive, the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations
having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, Defendants - Index No. 615688/2022 Plaintiff Designates Suffolk County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject premises is situated in Suffolk County. To the above named Defendants–YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated August 9, 2023. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME – If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Christopher Modelewski, J.S.C. Dated: August 9, 2023
Filed: August 15, 2023. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage covering the premises known as 159 Hawthorne Street, Mastic, NY 11950.
Dated: August 9, 2022 Filed: August 9, 2022. Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff,
Article V Entitled “Enforcement,” Article VI Entitled “Designated Management Areas and Winter Grounds” and Article VII Entitled “Aquaculture” of the Code of the Town of Brookhaven
of September, 2023, at 2:30 p.m., to consider enacting the following proposed Introductory Local Law:
Introductory Local Law Number 10 of 2023
the following proposed Introductory Local Law:
Introductory Local Law Number 11 of 2023
By: Mark R.Knuckles, Esq., 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523 P: (914) 345-3020
L15475 – 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023 & 9/20/2023
Notice of formation of ALLABOVETHEWATERLINE, LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on JULY 25, 2023. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to TAYLOR BUFFA, 100 WESTMINSTER DRIVE, SHIRLEY, NY 11967. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
L15477 – 8/30/2023, 9/6/2023, 9/13/2023, 9/20/2023. 9/27/2023 & 10/4/2023
Notice Is Hereby Given that pursuant to Section 20 (5) of the Municipal Home Rule Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven at One Independence Hill, Second Floor, Farmingville, New York 11738, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 18th day of September, 2023, at 2:30 p.m., to consider enacting the following proposed
Introductory Local Law:
Introductory Local Law
Number 9 of 2023
Amend Various Sections of Chapter 57 Entitled
“Shellfish,” Article I
Entitled “Definitions; Permits,” Article II
Entitled “General Regulations for Protection and Taking of Shellfish,”
Article III Entitled
“Specific Regulations for Protection and Taking of Shellfish,” Article IV
Entitled “Commercial Buying of Shellfish,”
Summary
Razor clams are currently an unregulated resource. Because of their fragility and the speed at which they can burrow, they are often harvested by ”Churning.” Churning utilizes a small outboard motor propeller to dislodge the razor clams from the bottom, where they are then scooped up using a shallow net. Churning has been permitted for soft or steamer clams for decades. Previously, a Special Churning Permit was required for harvesting razor clams each year. It is the intent of this amendment to various sections of Chapter 57 entitled “Shellfish” of the Code of the Town of Brookhaven to regulate the harvesting of razor clams, and allow for razor clams to be added to the Town Shellfish License along with hard clams, oysters, soft or steamer clams and scallops.
This is a summary of the proposed Local Law, a full copy of which is on file in the Town Clerk's Office and is available for inspection during regular Town business hours.
At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.
Kevin J. LaValle Town Clerk Town of BrookhavenDated: August 17, 2023
Farmingville, New York
L15478–8/30/2023
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice Is Hereby Given that pursuant to Section 20 (5) of the Municipal Home Rule Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven at One Independence Hill, Second Floor, Farmingville, New York 11738, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 18th day
Amend Chapter 10 entitled “Parks and Recreation Areas”, Chapter 71 entitled “Trespassing” and Chapter 77 entitled “Nature Preserves” of the Town Code of the Town of Brookhaven
Summary
It is the intent of this amendment to Chapter 10 entitled “Parks and Recreation Areas”, Chapter 71 entitled “Trespassing” and Chapter 77 entitled “Nature Preserves” of the Town Code of the Town of Brookhaven to further clarify the regulation of Hunting and the use of Firearms and weapons in Parks, Town owned property, Town operated property, and other property under the control of the Town as well as clarify the regulation and prohibition of structures and other encumbrances utilized in connection with same.
This is a summary of the proposed Local Law, a full copy of which is on file in the Town Clerk's Office and is available for inspection during regular Town business hours.
At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.
Kevin J. LaValle
Town Clerk, Town of Brookhaven
Dated: August 17, 2023 Farmingville, New York
L15479–8/30/2023
Notice Is Hereby Given that pursuant to Section 20 (5) of the Municipal Home Rule Law, a public hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven at One Independence Hill, Second Floor, Farmingville, New York 11738, and streamed live over the internet at brookhavenny. gov/meeting on the 18th day of September at 2:30 p.m., to consider enacting
Amend Chapter 87 entitled “Vacant Building Registration” and Chapter 89 “Mortgage-In-Default Registry” of the Town Code of the Town of Brookhaven
Summary
It is the intent of this amendment to Chapter 87 entitled “Vacant Building Registration”, and Chapter 89 “Mortgage-in-Default Registry” of the Town Code of the Town of Brookhaven to remove the requirement to register property in mortgage default and to update the Code to reflect a more user friendly vacant building registration process.
This is a summary of the proposed Local Law, a full copy of which is on file in the Town Clerk's Office and is available for inspection during regular Town business hours.
At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.
Kevin J. LaValle Town Clerk, Town of BrookhavenDated: August 17, 2023
Farmingville, New York
L15480–8/30/2023
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN
SOUTH SHORE PRESS
PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE IV, SEC. 85-55 (B) OF THE BUILDING ZONE ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS WILL, IN ACCORDANCE WITH OPEN MEETINGS LAW, HOLD THE FOLLOWING, AT ONE INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, N.Y.:
1. A PUBLIC HEARING ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2023 (2ND
FLOOR AUDITORIUM) COMMENCING AT 2:00 P.M. (THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE LIVE STREAMED OVER THE INTERNET AT http:// brookhaventownny.igm2. com/Citizens/Default. aspx, TO CONSIDER THE MATTERS LISTED BELOW and 2. A WORKSESSION ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2023, (PUBLIC DINING AREA 2ND FLOOR) COMMENCING AT THE END OF THE CALL OF THE PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR, TO DISCUSS THE DECISION CALENDAR
1. Gerard Gawlowski, 164 McKinley Dr., Mastic Beach, NY. Location: South side of Ostend Circle 191.65' West of Floyd Rd., Shirley. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage, front yard setback, rear yard, minimum and total side yard variances for proposed one family dwelling. (0200 88000 0500 042001)
2. Daniel and Ann O'Hagan, 3 Halliday Rd., Coram, NY. Location: North side of Halliday Rd. 134.29' East of Wagner Dr., Coram. Applicant requests rear yard variance for existing shed. (0200 39800 0200 008000)
3. Keith & Lisa Mangino, 27 Teepee Rd., Rocky Point, NY. Location: East side Teepee Rd., 248.31' South of Freya Rd., Rocky Point. Applicant requests front yard setback, rear yard, minimum & total side yard variances for proposed attached garage addition. (0200 05600 0500 037000)
6. Andrew and Karinna Ribeiro, 16 Westbrook Rd., Coram, NY. Location: West side of Westbrook Rd. 724.98' South of Welbourne Ln., Coram. Applicant requests rear yard, minimum and total side yard variances for proposed 2 story residence addition including garage. (0200 28300 0100 034000)
7. William and Shelly Massian, 41 Niewood Dr., Ridge, NY. Location: North side Heathcote Ct., 230' East of William Floyd Pkwy., Shirley. Applicant requests lot area, lot frontage, front yard setback, rear yard, minimum and total side
yard variances for proposed one family dwelling on a 40 ft. lot. (0200 98440 0500 004000)
11. Domenico & Janet Saccoccio, 20 Borman St., Ronkonkoma, NY. Location: West side Borman Ct., 844.84' South of Warren Ave., Ronkonkoma.
Applicant requests rear yard and minimum side yard variances for proposed one story residence addition. (0200 65100 0300 010000)
15. Bam Homes Inc., c/o Andrew Malguarnera, 713 Main St., Port Jefferson, NY. Location: East side Chestnut St. 4301' South of Hallock Ave., Mt. Sinai.
Applicant requests total side yard variance for proposed one family dwelling. (0200 18500 0200 005002)
17. Dennis Hoffman & Vicki Hoffman, c/o Andrew Malguarnera, 713 Main St., Port Jefferson, NY. Location: Northwest corner
Poinsetta Ave. & Cedar Branch St., Middle Island.
Applicant requests rear yard variance for existing wood deck with steps; also, rear yard and side yard variances for existing shed. (0200 34300 0400 019002)
18. PCH Management Inc. (Purple Cap Homes), 70 Mt. Sinai Ave., Mt. Sinai, NY. Location: East side Whittier Dr. 100' South of Pine Rd., Mastic Beach. Applicant requests front yard setback variance for existing 9' x 18.5' deck. (0200 97690 1800 002000)
27. Nicholas and Susan Tang, c/o Jennifer Leeds, 28 N. Country Rd., Ste. 101, Mt. Sinai, NY. Location: Southeast corner of East Moriches Blvd. and Seatuck Ave., Eastport. Applicant requests height and side yard variances for proposed 16.5 ft. high - 665 sq. ft. detached garage with roof over (patio) to be located in the required side yard (14 ft. high - 600 sq.
ft. permitted). (0200 72300 0400 016000)
28. AdkinsWeingartner Revocable Trust, Erik and Amy Weingartner Trustee, 16 Sylvester Ct., Rocky Point, NY. Location: South side Sylvester Ct., 952.64' East of Merritts Path, Rocky Point. Applicant requests height variance for existing 5' high fence on top of 3.8' high retaining wall creating overall height of 8.8' (6' high permitted). (0200 03200 0600 013022)
CASES WILL BE HEARD AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD.
HOWARD M. BERGSON CHAIRMAN
L15481–8/30/2023
NOTICE OF AMENDMENT & HEARING
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be
held by the Town Board at Brookhaven Town Office Complex, Town Auditorium, One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York and streamed live over the internet at Brookhavenny. gov/meeting on 09/18/2023 at 2:30 pm, to consider enacting the following proposed amendments to the Uniform Code of Traffic Ordinances of the Town of Brookhaven.
Article VII Section 26 entitled STOP AND YIELD INTERSECTIONS is hereby amended by ADDITION of the following in the hamlet of EAST SETAUKET
MILL RIVER RD OLD FIELD RD STOP W / MILL RIVER RD Article VIII Section 33 entitled PARKING PROHIBITED IN DESIGNATED AREAS is hereby amended by ADDITION of the following in the hamlet of EAST SETAUKET
UNIVERSITY DR NO
PARKING DURING
TIMES PER DIR OF TRAFFIC SAFETY BEG
NASSAKEAG ELEM SCHOOL DRIVEWAY CONT WEST +/- 410' /S
WASHINGTON AVE NO PARKING DURING
TIMES PER DIR OF TRAFFIC SAFETY BEG UNIVERSITY DR CONT SOUTH +/- 140' /E
Article VIII Section 36 entitled PARKING TIME LIMITED IN DESIGNATED LOCATIONS is hereby amended by DELETION of the following in the hamlet of EAST SETAUKET
UNIVERSITY DR NO
PARKING DURING
TIMES PER DIR OF TRAFFIC SAFETY BEG
WASHINGTON AVE CONT WEST +/- 280' /S
Article VIII Section 34 entitled RESTRICTED PARKING is hereby
amended by ADDITION of the following in the hamlet of MASTIC BEACH
DORIS DR NO PARKING ANY TIME BEG +/- 140' N/O NEIGHBORHOOD RD CONT N +/- 350' /E
Article VIII Section 34 entitled RESTRICTED PARKING is hereby amended by DELETION of the following in the hamlet of MASTIC BEACH
DORIS DR NO PARKING ANY TIME BEG @ NEIGHBORHOOD RD CONT N +/- 375' /E
At said public hearing, any persons interested shall be given the opportunity to be heard.
DATE: 08/17/2023
Farmingville, NY
Kevin J. LaValle, Town Clerk Town of Brookhaven L15483–8/30/2023
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