Struggling families who rely on food stamps are being forced to stock up on non-perishable food in case federal funds run out, all because of a completely unnecessary government shutdown.
Federal workers, from TSA agents to air traffic controllers, continue to do their jobs under immense pressure, keeping Americans safe while going without a paycheck. Meanwhile, the only reason members of the military are receiving paychecks is thanks to a multi-billionaire who donated $130 million to ensure those defending freedom at home and abroad are compensated. Make no mistake: the blame lies squarely with the Democrats, not the Grand Old Party.
The Republican majority in the House of Representatives did its job, passing a bill to keep the government open and funded. That bill was sent to the Senate, where Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, cheered on by Governor Hochul, is blocking a clean Continuing Resolution.
Yes, Republicans hold a Senate majority with 53 seats. You might think that would be enough to pass a bill with a simple majority. But due to Senate rules, a Continuing Resolution requires 60 votes to overcome a filibuster. That’s why Democrats’ cooperation is essential—and yet they refuse to act.
Remember, under President Biden, Schumer and Senate
The Schumer Shutdown hurts taxpayers
Democrats passed a clean Continuing Resolution 13 times. But now, they refuse to do the same for President Trump. This “Schumer Shutdown” is political pettiness at its worst, putting federal workers, families, and the American people in the crossfire. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats insist on including free healthcare for illegal immigrants in any new spending plan.
If you’re frustrated by the shutdown, don’t blame Republicans who did their jobs.
Blame the Schumer Shutdown: Senate Democrats prioritizing politics over people, using the government as a pawn while millions of Americans pay the price.
Agencies reaffirm Suffolk’s robust credit rating
By Ed Romaine
Op-Ed by County Executive
Ed Romaine
Suffolk County’s strong fiscal management continues to pay off. Both S&P and Fitch Ratings reaffirmed the county’s credit rating at “AA–,” reflecting the long-term budgeting decisions implemented since 2024. Fitch also raised ratings on outstanding bonds, signaling confidence in the county’s financial stability and creditworthiness.
These upgrades mean lower borrowing costs, saving taxpayer dollars while funding essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and sewer projects. Lower interest rates make it more affordable for the county to maintain and
improve public assets. Our conservative budgeting approach—staying within the
tax cap, avoiding inflated revenue projections, and managing every dollar responsibly—has
been cited by rating agencies as key to “sustained improvements in liquidity, growing reserves, and responsible longterm budgeting.” Since taking office in 2024, my administration has stabilized Suffolk’s finances and restored confidence in the county’s fiscal future. Importantly, stronger finances have not come at the expense of services. By reorganizing departments and filling previously budgeted vacancies, we’ve reduced wait times for residents seeking help from the Department of Social Services, increased the number of uniformed police officers and detectives, and advanced clean water and downtown revitalization efforts. Residents applying for SNAP benefits are now processed far faster,
and 311 callers no longer face hours-long delays.
However, state funding inequities remain a concern. Suffolk County receives just $40 million in public transportation aid from Albany, while Nassau County—similar in population but one-third the size—receives $110 million. Roadway funding for Long Island has also dropped from over 25% of statewide allocations to just 8%.
My goal is for Suffolk County to achieve an “AAA” credit rating, continuing to strengthen our capital program and deliver savings to taxpayers. Through disciplined decision-making and strong leadership, we will keep building a safer, more affordable Suffolk County.
Grok
Photo Illustration
Suffolk County Executive’s Office Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine
LOCAL
By Deborah Williams
A whole host of local businesses are lending their support to young Jackson in his fight against leukemia.
The outpouring of generosity for Cocktails for a Cause, hosted by Late Knight Warriors (LKW), has been nothing short of incredible. The event takes place Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 6:00–9:00 PM at The Tap Room in Bay Shore will benefit one-year-old Jackson Berry and his family.
Earlier this year, his parents, Shaun and Jenna Berry, received Jackson’s devastating leukemia diagnosis. Since then, their world has revolved around doctor visits, hospital stays, and
Community rallies around one-year old Jackson Berry
treatments while trying to keep up hope. To stay by Jackson’s side throughout his journey, Jenna left her job, creating added financial hardship for the family.
Since announcing the fundraiser, community support has continued to grow. Bulovas Restorations Inc. has joined as the Event Sponsor, and a wide range of local businesses have stepped up with donations for the event’s Chinese Auction, including: LI Ducks, RPM Raceway, Sayville Running Club, Adventureland, NY Islanders, NY Knicks, Brooklyn Cyclones, The Adventure Park, Larson’s Christmas Trees, Davis Park Harbor Store, Carleton Clothing, Casino Bar and Café, Surfside, Spiderbite Brewing
Co., Queens Baseball Convention, and Clare Rose.
In addition, Minuteman Press of East Northport, The Rustic Workshop, and Tap Room of Bay Shore have generously provided in-kind support to help make the evening possible.
“We are so grateful for the incredible outpouring of support from local businesses and our community,” said Laura Gottfried, Vice President of Late Knight Warriors. “Jackson’s courage and determination have inspired all of us, and every sponsorship, donation, and act of kindness helps lift some of the weight his family is carrying.”
Tickets are limited and can be purchased at https://lateknightwarriors.com/lkw-cocktail-par-
ty. Those unable to attend can still contribute by donating online or purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets through the website.
Marcelle Leis honored for distinguished military, veteran service
By Robert Chartuk
Chief Master Sergeant Marcelle Leis was honored this week for her extraordinary dedication, leadership, and lifetime of service to the United States Air Force, the New York Air National Guard, and the veteran community.
The recognition came during a special ceremony hosted by State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who praised the Patchogue resident as “a role model whose unwavering commitment to service has strengthened our community and inspired countless veterans and their families.”
Leis served honorably in the U.S. Air Force and New
York Air National Guard from February 1989 to February 2013, retiring from the 106th Rescue Wing at FS. Gabreski Airport in Westhampton Beach. She currently serves as Director of the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency.
During her distinguished career, she graduated from the USAF First Sergeant Academy in 1999 and was appointed first sergeant for the 106th Mission Support Group.
Her military tenure included answering the call on September 11, 2001, deploying with the 106th Operations and Maintenance Group to Kuwait in support of Operation Southern Watch, and serving as an adjunct instructor at the First
and
for numerous
humanitarian missions, including leading efforts during Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
Leis earned multiple awards for her service, including two Air Force Meritorious Service medals, three Air Force Commendation medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the New York State Conspicuous Cross.
Following her retirement, she continued serving as a veteran peer mentor and later as director of Veteran Services with the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project, helping veterans reintegrate into civilian life. She also earned an Master of Sciences Degree in human services leadership from St. Joseph’s College in 2015.
FRES welcomes Niko, its new facility dog
By Robert Chartuk
The newest member of Suffolk’s Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) is Niko, an affectionate two-year-old Labrador and Golden Retriever mix. The friendly facility dog is already winning hearts and lifting spirits across the department.
Before joining FRES, Niko completed extensive training through America’s VetDogs, where he learned advanced obedience, socialization, and comfort-response skills. His calm demeanor, keen intelligence, and ability to sense stress made him a natural fit for service in a high-pressure environment like emergency services.
“Working in fire and emergency medical services can take a real toll,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. “Our first responders and emergency staff face difficult situations every day. Having Niko here brings comfort, reduces stress, and reminds our employees how much we value their well-being.”
Office, Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services, and Budget and Finance — spreading what staff are calling “paw-sitive energy.”
Commissioner Rudy Sunderman said the idea for a facility dog came from recognizing the emotional strain that comes with the job. “Our people see and hear a lot, often under pressure,” Sunderman said. “Niko’s presence is already helping to ease that burden. You can see smiles return the moment he walks into a room.”
FRES coordinates fire, rescue, and emergency response operations, ensuring public safety through training and communication.
County Executive Romaine stopped by FRES headquarters to personally meet and welcome Niko. He praised the department for taking innovative steps to support employee wellness and morale. “He’s part of our mission now,” Romaine said. “Niko’s here to serve just like the rest of us — only with four paws, a wagging tail, and a heart full of loyalty.”
Sergeant Academy in 2002. She later served as wing human resources advisor and as chief enlisted manager of the 106th Security Forces Squadron,
she was activated
Robert Chartuk
Marcelle Leis is honored by Assemblyman Joe DeStefano as a Woman of Distinction.
Late Knight Warriors Bay Shore rallies around Jackson Berry in his fight against leukemia.
Niko and his handler, Fire Marshal Nicole Pannhurst, recently completed their certification program, officially making
Niko part of the FRES team. He now visits offices throughout the building — including Communications, the Fire Marshal’s
FRES
County Executive Ed Romaine says hello to Niko as FRES Director Rudy Sunderman and handler Fire Marshal Nicole Pannhurst look on.
LOCAL
Deborah Williams
Multiple William Paca Middle School students reported being sick at school in May and were transported to a local hospital after they ingested cannabis gummies on school grounds. An investigation ensued and the supplier of the pot gummies has been arrested.
Suffolk County Police arrested a man who provided a middle school student with cannabis gummies that were in turn distributed to other students at the school.
Following an investigation, Seventh Precinct Investigation Unit officers arrested Jahsheem Jones at his home, located at 85
Supplier of pot-laced gummies to William Floyd students arrested
Robinwood Drive, for selling the gummies to a student who then distributed the gummies to three other students. Jones, 18, was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
Jones was issued a Desk Appearance Ticket and is scheduled to appear at First District Court in Central Islip on a later date.
James Montalto, Public Relations Director of William Floyd School District, said, “We are grateful to the Suffolk County Police Department for their efforts in bringing this individual to justice. This unfortunate situation was addressed with the three students and their families when it occurred last May. We continue to educate
our students throughout the school year, through topical lessons and special events, about the dangers of all drug use including cannabis and edible cannabis.”
At the time of the initial incident, 12 students fell ill at school and the SCPD and local EMTs responded en masse to provide care and assistance, along with the school nurse. Eleven of the students were being transported to local hospitals for assistance and one was released into the custody of a parent.
No one knew at the time where the gummies came from or how the young students came to have them. Diligent investigation on the part of the SCPD solved the case.
Brentwood man gets 10 years for assaulting a police officer
By Deborah Williams
Cody B. Fisher was driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs when he seriously injured police officer Brendon Gallagher.
Fisher, 29, of Brentwood, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 5 years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to Assault on a Police Officer, and several other related charges, for driving impaired, speeding, failing to pull over, and then crashing into Suffolk County Officer Gallagher’s vehicle causing it to flip over.
District Attorney Ray Tierney said, “This case went beyond a reckless flight. The fact that this officer survived is nothing short of a miracle. Today’s sentence of a decade in state prison reflects the gravity of using a motor vehicle as an instrument of violence against those sworn to protect our community.”
According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions in court, Officer Gallagher was conducting a traffic stop of another motorist on the Long Island Expressway between exit 58 and exit 57. Fisher, driving his 2021 Ford Mustang, sped by Officer Gallagher. Officer Gallagher left his traffic stop and attempted to pull the defendant over. Fisher fled from the officer, weaving in and out of lanes, reaching speeds up to 100 mph.
As Officer Gallagher pulled alongside the defendant’s car,
Fisher hit the police vehicle, causing it to lose control, flip on its side, and smash into a tree on the side of the expressway. Officer Gallagher had to be extricated from the vehicle and was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital where he was treated for a torn aorta and abdominal injuries
Suffolk County DA: Woman flees scene after killing pedestrian
By Deborah Williams
A woman is accused of hitting a pedestrian and stopping her car only long enough to try to remove the victim’s suitcase stuck under the car before fleeing the scene.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced that Amanda Kempton, 32, of Fairfax, Virginia, was indicted for Leaving the Scene of an Incident Resulting in Death, after she allegedly struck and killed pedestrian Sara Burack, 40, of Southampton, on West Montauk Highway in Hampton Bays in June.
“Leaving the scene of a fatal collision makes a tragic situation even worse,” said District Attorney Tierney. “Rather than rendering help to Ms. Burack, the defendant allegedly left her to die. This indictment is an important step towards justice for Sara and her loved ones.”
alleged that Kempton did not render aid to the victim, but instead tried unsuccessfully to remove the suitcase from underneath her vehicle, before fleeing the scene with it still dragging underneath.
requiring surgery. Following the crash, Fisher’s severely damaged vehicle traveled hundreds of feet on the side of the expressway before coming to a stop. When police arrived, they observed that Fisher had glassy, bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and was unsteady on his feet.
According to the investigation, on June 19, 2025, Kempton was driving a 2004 Toyota Highlander westbound on West Montauk Highway near Springville Road in Hampton Bays when she struck Burack, who was walking along West Montauk Highway with a suitcase. At the time of the crash, Burack’s suitcase became lodged underneath Kempton’s vehicle.
The accident was not reported to authorities and it is
A passing motorist discovered Burack lying on the shoulder of West Montauk Highway and called 911. Burack was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital where she was later pronounced dead.
Southampton Town Detectives traced and recovered the vehicle allegedly involved in the crash to Kempton. The investigation also revealed that Kempton allegedly discarded the suitcase in a local dumpster along with its contents. Kempton was taken into custody that day. She faces 2 to 7 years in prison if convicted.
Grok/Twitter
Arrest made in the case of the pot gummies at a William Floyd School.
Grok/Twitter Southampton woman struck and killed on West Montauk Highway.
Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office
Drug-impaired man gets ten years for crashing into Suffolk County Police Officer
By Robert Chartuk
Thorne-led effort removes tons of debris from Patchogue watershed
A massive environmental cleanup along Patchogue’s Tuthills Creek has rejuvenated a critical local waterway while highlighting the importance of land preservation and community involvement.
Suffolk Legislator Dominick Thorne organized more than 60 volunteers from the Creek Defenders and Save the Great South Bay for the weekend effort, which removed tons of debris from the creek and its surroundings. “We pulled out about 30 cubic yards of waste and garbage,” Thorne noted. “We filled an entire 30-yard dumpster—shopping carts, tires, wooden pallets, you name it. I even rented a truck from Home Depot at my own expense to haul it all out.”
Volunteer leader James Bertsch praised the turnout and teamwork. “The Tuthills Creek cleanup was a success,” he said. “We had an incredible turnout—65 volunteers, including 24 Patchogue-Medford High School Interact Club students and several from Connetquot High School. Together, we tackled three major cleanup sites, removing over 30 shopping carts, tents, tires, wooden pallets, and other debris.”
Bertsch credited several local partners for making the day possible, including
Gateway Plaza Property Owners, Home Depot, and The Law Office of Feuer & Feurer. “And of course,” he added, “our Creek Defenders—Jennifer George, Brad Shaw, Brian Pendergast, Rae Paoletta, Mike Lovell, Tom Kain, and Joe Tetonic—who showed up to protect our bay.”
For Thorne, the effort went beyond cleanup. “We’re working hard to preserve open space along the Tuthills Creek corridor,” he said. “Keeping this waterway
clear is vital to the health of the larger watershed, which feeds into West Lake and eventually the Great South Bay. You can see the water flowing better now that the obstructions are gone.”
Thorne said more preservation projects are planned along the creek and nearby parcels north of Sunrise Highway. “Protecting our creeks protects our bay,” he said. “This is what stewardship looks like.”
USA Today names Islip’s MacArthur no. 2 small airport
By Michael J. Reistetter
Last week, USA Today released its 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Small Airport. Lo and behold, Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) finished in second place out of 20 nominees.
This marks ISP’s highest ranking in its five nominations to date, trending up one from the 3-spot it garnered last year.
“Long Island MacArthur Airport continues to rise in the list of the best small airports. This year we secured the no. 2 spot, our best showing to date,” said Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “The outpouring of support for Long Island’s hometown airport and more air service is being recognized by travelers, and we are so grateful!”
“Long Island showed great determination and creativity on social media with customers near and far sharing stories and support,” Aviation Commissioner Rob Schneider said. He added an appreciation for the residents who voted and the local organizations that helped spread the word (about the vote), such as the Long Island Ducks, the MacArthur Business Alliance, Discover Long Island, and HIA-LI.
Said Town of Islip Councilmember John Lorenzo: “This best-ever effort energizes our community as we continue to work hard with air carriers to bring more destinations and travel options from Long Island MacArthur Airport.”
islipny.gov
Said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter: “The outpouring of support for Long Island’s hometown airport and more air service is being recognized by travelers, and we are so grateful!”
“It also encourages us to continue reaching out to visitors in other areas to showcase Long Island and welcome tourism to our area,” he added.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, took home the top prize.
After MacArthur, the following filled out the top 10, in order: Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD); Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR);
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Legislator Dominick Thorne with dozens of volunteers who cleaned up Tuthill’s Creek.
LOCAL
By Michael J. Reistetter
Summer wasn’t the only season for paving project completions in the neighborhood.
Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro and Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig joined forces this week to announce the successful completion of two major paving projects that resurfaced a total of 23 roadways in Mastic and Shirley.
“Last year, we were able to pave roadways north of Floyd Road and this year we returned to focus south of Floyd,” said Losquadro. “These were all heavily-traveled roadways that see a great deal of daily traffic from motorists going to and from John S. Hobart Elementary School, William Floyd
More Mastic, Shirley pavement resurfacing projects announced
Elementary School and Nathaniel Woodhull Elementary School.”
Before paving began, crews performed drainage maintenance and replaced damaged concrete aprons to ensure a smoother and longer-lasting surface. These efforts were an essential part of the preparation process, ensuring that the repaved streets would stand up to the wear and tear of daily traffic.
The first of the two projects resurfaced the following 10 streets: Pawnee Avenue, Meadowmere Avenue, Strafford Street, Terapin Street, Tonopan Street, Bullard Street, Van Buren Street, Monroe Street, Madison Street, and Hawthorne Street. This project came at a total cost of approximately $1.2 million.
In the second project, Essex
Circle, Ostend Circle, Hounslow Road, Broadway, Concord Road, Floyd Road, Tudor Road, Stuart Road, Linden Avenue, Fleet Road, Lawrence Road, The Green, and Beacon Street were all resurfaced for the same total cost.
“Over the last two paving seasons, we’ve successfully resurfaced dozens of roadways in this area making them safer and smoother for residents, commuters and pedestrians,” Losquadro continued.
Councilwoman Dunne Kesnig added, “Our roads are the backbone of daily life and maintaining them is essential to keeping our communities connected.”
The town’s continued investment in roadway infrastructure highlights its commitment to safety, quality of life, and travel efficiency.
Legislators warn November may mark last true local elections
By Robert Chartuk
New York’s 2025 election cycle could be the last time voters head to the polls solely to decide local races, according to state legislators who warn that a new law shifting local elections to even-numbered years will erode community representation and voter focus. The controversial law, signed earlier this year by Gov. Kathy Hochul and upheld by New York’s Court of Appeals, moves county, town, and village elections from odd to even-numbered years to coincide with state and federal contests. Critics say it is a partisan maneuver designed to give Democrats an edge in local elections, as community issues will be buried under the
noise of national politics.
“For Long Island, the 2025 local elections will likely be the
last of their kind,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, noting that Democrats who approved the change excluded New York City. “They want the local elections mixed in with the state and federal elections to give their candidates a better chance of winning. This will trivialize their importance, as high-profile races drown out community issues like zoning, schools, and infrastructure.”
Assemblyman Will Barclay, leader of the Republican Caucus, called the change “an unnecessary and partisan maneuver forced upon voters under the guise of cost savings.” He warned that residents will pay less attention to local government decisions that
directly affect their lives.
DeStefano echoed those concerns, saying local elections are where accountability begins. “People know their town supervisors, council members, and local legislators,” he said. “When you push those races further down the ballot, you weaken the connection between the people and their government.”
Legal challenges are pending that could eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court.
“Regardless of what number the year ends in, voting matters,” Barclay added. “But this change risks silencing the very voices that make local democracy work.”
Renovation underway at Center Moriches eyesore
By Robert Chartuk
The long-vacant Jonesy’s Hardware building in Center Moriches is getting a major facelift under a plan by developer Ghulam Sarwar to bring new life to the Main Street property. Sarwar, who is also renovating the old Smitty’s Hardware in Mastic Beach and is behind plans for a cemetery at the former Spadaro Airport in East Moriches, said crews are transforming the 1934 brick structure into two modern commercial spaces.
“We’re doing everything new—windows, doors, siding, bathrooms, paint, floors—everything inside and outside,” Sarwar said. “It’s going to be beautiful.”
The renovation will create about 2,500 square feet of space that could accommodate a restaurant, café, bakery, or retail shops, according to the developer. Tenants have yet to be secured, Sarwar said, adding, “Any legal business is welcome, but I will not allow smoke shops.”
The building, on the corner of Canal Street in the heart of the downtown business district, has sufficient sewage capacity for a restaurant, Sarwar noted, and will include six new parking spaces behind the property, in addition to street parking. He hopes to have renovations completed by the end of the year, with leasing to follow soon after.
“The recent work is en-
couraging, and I hope to see it continue through completion and then into occupancy by a use that adds to our community,” said Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico, a Center Moriches resident.
Local realtor Gerri Sapanaro also welcomed the project. “I’m very happy to see that there’s finally someone fixing the building and helping to beautify our community,” she said.
The Main Street structure, which operated as a hardware store starting in 1972 under Richard Jones and later as Druek’s True Value before relocating to the King Kullen shopping center, has sat empty for a decade. “The project will make the property look nice again,” Sarwar said.
Chat GPT
November may see the last true local elections.
Town of Brookhaven
Superintendent Losquadro and Councilwoman Dunne Kesnig on Madison Street in Mastic-Shirley.
Robert Chartuk
The former Jonesy’s building.
SANTOS UNCENSORED
BY GEORGE SANTOS
Let me be perfectly clear: New York City is not a socialist laboratory. It is the beating heart of American capitalism, or at least it used to be, before radicals like Zohran Mamdani decided they wanted to turn it into Havana on the Hudson.
Mamdani calls himself a Democratic Socialist, but let’s stop sugarcoating it, he’s a socialist, period. And socialists don’t build; they bleed. They drain the life out of every city they touch. Look around at every place where their ideas take root: businesses flee, families struggle, and the middle class becomes an endangered species.
This man wants to run New York like it’s some kind of social experiment where everything is free, no one is accountable, and success is treated like a crime. He preaches about equity while plotting to tax ambition out of existence. He doesn’t see the city’s entrepreneurs,
landlords, or job creators as partners in progress, he sees them as villains.
The reality is simple: socialism sells dreams and delivers decay. You can’t fund every fantasy with other people’s money forever. Eventually, the bill comes due, and it’s always the working people who pay for it.
Mamdani’s platform is built on envy, not opportunity. He talks about fairness while promoting dependency. He speaks of justice while undermining the very freedoms that make justice possible. That’s not leadership, that’s manipulation wrapped in moral posturing.
And let’s not ignore the obvious: under his kind of government, crime would rise, businesses would vanish, and taxpayers would bolt for the nearest state with common sense. Because no sane person wants to live in a city where the government owns
Zohran Mamdani is a Full Blown Socialist
everything and personal responsibility means nothing.
If Mamdani wants to live in a socialist utopia, there are plenty of places around the world that have tried it, and failed miserably. But New York City should never be one of them.
We need a mayor who believes in growth, not grievance. Who celebrates success, not punishes it. Who understands that prosperity doesn’t come from government handouts, it comes from grit, work, and freedom.
So to Mr. Mamdani, I’ll say this: your ideas might make for a catchy campaign speech, but they make for a catastrophic city. New Yorkers are not fools, and we’re not about to hand over the greatest city in the world to the socialist dreamers who would destroy it. Because New York doesn’t need socialism, it needs salvation from it.
Bay Shore man guilty of sex trafficking
By Deborah Williams
Freddie Rice used narcotics and financial coercion to force victims into sexual acts and now he faces 50 years in prison.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced that Rice, 34, of Bay Shore, was found guilty after a jury trial of Sex Trafficking for using narcotics and financial coercion to induce victims to engage in sexual acts with third parties in exchange for money.
“Today, justice was served,” said District Attorney Tierney. “Freddie Rice’s crimes were calculated, predatory, and devastating to his victims. My office encourages anyone who is a victim of sex trafficking to call 911 or the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office Human Trafficking Tipline at (631) 852-2950.”
The evidence at trial established that Rice preyed upon the drug addictions of multiple women to coerce them to engage in sexual acts with various men for his own profit. Each
of the victims was addicted to heroin and/or crack cocaine, which he withheld to ensure that they complied with his directives, namely, by responding to buyers of sex and charging specific fees for specific sexual acts.
The victims were required to hand over all the money that they earned to Rice. If they were caught keeping any of the money for themselves, Rice “punished” them by withholding the drugs that they were addicted to, causing the victims to experience intense and
dangerous physical withdrawal symptoms.
Rice was convicted after a jury trial heard before Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins of two counts of Sex Trafficking, Class B felonies, and one count of Promoting Prostitution in the Third Degree, a Class D felony.
Rice is awaiting sentencing on an unrelated conviction for two Class B felonies. He has four additional prior felony convictions. He is also certified as a sex offender as a result of this conviction.
Woman Arrested After Fatal Melville E-Bike Crash
By The South Shore Press
Suffolk County Police arrested a Melville woman early Saturday morning after a motor vehicle crash killed an e-bike rider in Melville. Authorities identified the driver as 24-year-old Jennifer Kirkpatrick, who was operating a 2018 Subaru Forester southbound on Bagatelle Road when she attempted to make a left turn onto eastbound Express Drive South. At approximately 1:06 a.m., her vehicle struck a Razor fly-wing e-bike traveling northbound on Bagatelle Road. The e-bike operator, whose identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin, was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical
Center in West Islip, where he was pronounced dead. Police have not released further details regarding his age or background. Kirkpatrick was taken to Huntington Hospital for treatment of minor injuries sustained in the crash. She was subsequently charged with driving while intoxicated and is being held overnight at the Fourth Precinct. She is scheduled to be arraigned at the First District Court in Central Islip on October 25. Both the Subaru and the e-bike were impounded as part of the ongoing investigation.
Suffolk County Police’s Major Case Unit is asking anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Witnesses
or anyone with relevant video footage are asked to contact detectives at 631-852-6553. Authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that charges could change as more details emerge.
Police also reminded residents of the dangers of impaired driving, particularly during late-night hours, and urged all motorists and e-bike riders to exercise caution. This tragic incident highlights the risks posed by driving while intoxicated and underscores the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists. As Suffolk County continues to monitor traffic safety and enforcement, officials encourage the public to remain vigilant and report
any suspicious or unsafe driving behaviors.
Major Case Unit detectives
are asking anyone with information on this crash to call 631852-6553.
Photo
File Photo
George Santos
Office of Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney Freddie Rice is found guilty of sex trafficking of multiple women.
LOCAL
Nathaniel Woodhull students study river science at Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge
By The South Shore Press
Students from Nathaniel Woodhull Elementary School recently stepped out of the classroom and into nature during a field trip to Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge. The visit was part of the annual “Day in the Life of the Carmans River” program, an educational initiative that encourages environmental stewardship and scientific discovery among Long Island students.
Throughout the day, the fourth graders participated in a variety of hands-on science activities designed to deepen their understanding of local ecosystems. Students tested the water quality of the Carmans River, learning how temperature,
salinity, and clarity influence the health of the waterway. Using microscopes, they examined tiny marine organisms that live in the river, gaining a closer look at the biodiversity within their own community. Lessons also explored the impact of stormwater runoff pollution and the growing threat posed by the southern pine beetle, an invasive insect that damages native pine trees and alters forest habitats.
To combine science with creativity, each student created a colorful fish print to take home as a keepsake. The project tied together art and science while reminding students of the importance of conservation.
and Mrs. Nocella accompanied their classes on the trip, guiding students through the hands-on activities and discussions.
The “Day in the Life” program is sponsored by the Central Pine Barrens Commission and supported by several key partners, including Brookhaven National Laboratory, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Cornell Cooperative Extension, the South Shore Estuary Reserve, and Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge.
By the end of the day, students returned to school with a stronger appreciation for the natural environment that surrounds their community—and a better understanding of how science helps protect it for future generations.
Town of Brookhaven to host annual Polar Plunge for Special Olympics
By The South Shore Press
The Town of Brookhaven is set to host its Annual Polar Plunge in partnership with Special Olympics New York on November 22, 2025, at Cedar Beach in Mount Sinai. The event is open to community members, businesses, and organizations who wish to participate in a cold-water plunge to raise funds for Special Olympics New York athletes.
On August 18, Councilwoman Jane Bonner met with Rebecca Hoffmann, Director for Development at Special Olympics New York, and Special Olympian Katy Saas at Brookhaven Town Hall. During a segment recorded for Brookhaven Cable Channel 18, they discussed the details of the Polar Plunge, registration proce-
dures, and Katy Saas’s experiences as both a Special Olympics athlete and returning participant in the plunge.
On October 23, Councilwoman
Bonner also hosted Rebecca Hoffmann and Special Olympian Matthew Schuster at a Town Board meeting to further promote the event. Several Town officials,
including Councilman Michael Loguercio, Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig, Councilman Neil Foley, Supervisor Dan Panico, Town Clerk Kevin LaValle, and Councilman Neil Manzella, were present.
Councilwoman Bonner stated, “The Polar Plunge is not just about braving the cold water, it’s about celebrating the determination, teamwork, and joy that Special Olympics athletes bring to our community. Every year, I’m inspired by their strength and by the generosity of our residents who come together to take the plunge or cheer from the sidelines in support of such a special cause.”
The event will begin with registration at 9:30 a.m., followed by the plunge at 11:30 a.m., and will take place rain or shine un-
less hazardous conditions occur. There is no minimum donation required to participate, but a suggested fundraising goal of $25 is recommended. Participants who raise over $150 will receive a commemorative sweatshirt. All proceeds will benefit Special Olympics New York, which provides year-round training and competition for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities at no cost to them. The organization relies on donations to fund its programs. More information about the event can be found by watching the TV segment at https:// brookhavenny.portal.civicclerk. com/event/3975/media or by visiting Brookhaven Cable Channel 18. Registration details are available at http://events.nyso. org/brookhaven25.
Energy performance at Eastport South-Manor
By Michael J. Reistetter
Partaking in an electric “let’s go Sharks!” chant has never been more appropriate, as ESM has made like Aimee Mann by “wising up” in the green department.
To celebrate the completion of its $18.5 million Energy Performance Contract (EPC), the Eastport-South Manor (ESM) Central School District coordinated a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Jr.-Sr. High School.
According to the district, through energy savings and state aid, this project was completed at no cost to the community’s taxpayers.
Moreover, the EPC will guarantee savings of at least $450,000 in its first year of operation by reducing ESM’s energy consumption at
all five of its buildings. The meticulously crafted construction of solar carports and rooftop-mounted solar panels throughout the district made this possible—a simple pleasure to treasure called the swift implementation of cost-saving measures.
Retrofitting all the lights and lighting fixtures to LED throughout each of ESM’s facilities led to additional savings.
The district also installed new, massive 600-ton and 300-ton cooling units at the Jr.-Sr. High School. These are more efficient than those they replaced, which had reached the end of a long and successful run before flaming out.
Now, the entire 365,000-square-foot building can be cooled to the maximum possible extent without any signs
of slowing down.
Other energy control measures addressed pipe and valve insulation, new building management controls, and energy-efficient motors for the heating systems at the high school and Dayton Avenue Elementary.
Superintendent of Schools
Joseph A. Steimel thanked local and state legislators for making the funds available for the project, as well as for expediting the solar panel connection to the grid ahead of the ribbon-cutting.
Esteemed local leaders in attendance included Senators Anthony Palumbo and Dean Murray, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine—all pictured alongside ESM’s superintendent brass.
Town of Brookhaven
Brookhaven Town Board.
WFSD
Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge.
ESMCD
Eastport-South Manor’s superintendents hold a ribbon for (center, l-r) Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine and New York State Sen. Dean Murray to ceremonially cut.
LOCAL
By Robert Chartuk
A venerable community mainstay was hit by thieves who broke through a door and stole cash from the Center Moriches Methodist Church thrift sale.
According to church trustee president Tom Muller, the burglars broke open a safe containing $2,104 in thrift-sale proceeds, as well as robbing the petty cash drawer and taking about $200 in donations.
“They knew where the money was, and they went after it,” Muller said, speculating that the thrift sale operation was cased in advance of the breakin. “They had knowledge that
Thieves make off with cash in thrift sale theft
they must have gotten by being in the store during regular hours.”
The perpetrator(s) climbed an exterior fire escape and broke a hole in a wooden door before letting themselves in. They used a crowbar to pry open the safe, causing significant damage, Muller reported. The theft is under investigation by Suffolk Police, and anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 800-220-TIPS.
The thrift sale has long been an important funding source for the church, with proceeds used to maintain the historic Main Street building and sponsor programs such as a weekly food pantry. “A number
of local families rely on the food pantry, and it’s a shame someone would do this,” Muller said. The thrift sale is well stocked with shoes and clothing donated by area residents and serves as a lifeline for those less fortunate.
The volunteer operation has also been targeted by thieves pilfering donations left on the front porch. “We’ve had people go into the bin and hand out items to accomplices waiting outside,” Muller said, adding that it was the first time in the 40 years of running the store that someone had broken into the building. The store used to accept donations of all kinds but in recent years has limited it to apparel.
My Name Is Thomas Hwang: Chronicles of Astronomy
By Dominick Forte
For millennia, humanity has looked to the heavens with wonder, charting a course through the vast expanse of Creation. The story of astronomy — a timeline of discovery and innovation — stretches back more than 4,000 years. The earliest recorded astronomical event dates to around 2000 B.C., when two Chinese astronomers were executed for failing to predict an eclipse — an omen that underscored the importance of celestial knowledge in ancient times. Centuries later, Hipparchus compiled the first known catalog of stars in 129 B.C., followed by Persian
astronomer al-Sufi’s catalogue of more than 1,000 stars in 970 A.D.
Between these milestones, Alexandrian scholar Claudius Ptolemy proposed a geocentric,
or Earth-centered, model of the universe around 150 A.D., shaping scientific thought for over a millennium. In 1420, Ulugh Beg of Turkestan constructed a massive observatory and produced extensive star tables, paving the way for the Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, who — on his deathbed in 1543 — published his revolutionary heliocentric theory placing the Sun at the universe’s center.
In 1609, Galileo Galilei’s telescope revealed the craters of the Moon, Jupiter’s moons, and the countless stars of the Milky Way. Decades later, Sir Isaac Newton developed the theory of universal gravitation and introduced the reflecting
telescope in 1671.
Predicting the heavens became reality when Edmond Halley forecast the return of a comet in 1758 — confirmed by German farmer and amateur astronomer Johann Palitzsch. The discoveries of Uranus (1781), Neptune (1846), and Pluto (1930) expanded the known Solar System.
In 1932, Karl Jansky detected cosmic radio waves from the Milky Way’s core, now known as Sagittarius A, heralding the age of radio astronomy. These cumulative achievements set the stage for humanity’s greatest leap: the launch of Sputnik 1in 1957, Yuri Gagarin’s spaceflight in 1961, and Neil Armstrong’s historic Moon landing in 1969.
CRESLI leads the way in coastal research and education
By Robert Chartuk
For nearly three decades, the Coastal Research and Educational Society of Long Island (CRESLI) has combined scientific research with public education to promote stewardship of marine life along Suffolk’s South Shore. Founded in 1996 by marine mammal experts and educators, CRESLI continues to play a leading role in studying whales and seals off Long Island’s coast while inspiring thousands to protect these vital ecosystems.
Dr. Arthur H. “Artie” Kopelman, CRESLI’s president and senior scientist, has spent decades observing fin, humpback, and other whales in New York waters. Since 2006, his research has focused on harbor seals at Cupsogue Park in Westhampton
Beach, where he conducts longterm photo-identification studies to track the animals’ movements and population trends. “Our goal is to connect people directly to these magnificent animals,” Dr. Kopelman said. “Through education and research, we build the awareness and stewardship needed to ensure their survival.”
CRESLI’s work extends beyond the shoreline. The all-volunteer organization partners with institutions such as Gotham Whale, the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society, and Stony Brook University to share data on marine mammals across the New York Bight and beyond. Whale-watch cruises and guided seal walks serve as both research platforms and educational experiences, allowing the public to actively par-
ticipate in conservation science.
Sandbars in Moriches Bay are popular hauling out areas for harbor, gray, harp, and other seal species.
“Every photo taken, every sighting reported, helps us understand these species better,” Dr. Kopelman noted. “The public’s involvement has been invaluable in revealing just how essential Long Island’s waters are to whales, seals, and sea turtles.”
A member of the South Shore Estuary Reserve Citizens Advisory Committee, CRESLI also advises regional policymakers on coastal issues. “Our mission,” Dr. Kopelman said, “is to ensure that Long Island’s coastal ecosystems are studied, understood, and protected for generations to come.”
Chat GPT
Photo Illustration
Robert Chartuk
The Methodist Church thrift sale has been operating for more than 40 years.
CRESLI
Dr. Arthur H. “Artie” Kopelman
HISTORY LESSONS
BY RICHARD ACRITELLI
“Rosecrans has been whipped, as I feared. I have feared it for several days. I believe I feel trouble in the air before it comes.”— President Abraham Lincoln For Confederate President Jefferson Davis, the summer of 1863 was devastating. July brought twin disasters for the South — the surrender of Vicksburg on the Mississippi River and the defeat at Gettysburg in Pennsylvania. Both losses shattered Confederate hopes of foreign recognition and proved the Union’s growing ability to wield its vast manpower, industrial strength, and transportation networks to devastating effect. The South desperately needed a victory to restore faith that the Confederacy could still turn the tide of war.
In the aftermath, Confederate General Braxton Bragg pulled his weary army south into Georgia to reorganize and prepare for another strike. His eyes were fixed on Chattanooga, Tennessee — a critical rail hub linking the Upper South to the Deep South. To hold it meant controlling a vital lifeline of transport and communication. To lose it meant opening the heart of Georgia to Union invasion. Long before William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea, the fight for Chattanooga would determine the fate of the Confederacy’s interior.
The Battle of Chickamauga Union General William Rosecrans advanced his Army of the Cumberland southward, hoping to destroy Bragg’s reorganizing army. Confederate leaders, sensing opportunity, began shifting troops from Virginia and Mississippi to bolster Bragg’s ranks. From September 18 to 20, 1863, the two armies clashed along Chickamauga Creek in the dense, smoky woods of northern Georgia.
The battle opened with fierce skirmishes as Confederate forces struck at scattered Union cavalry. Rosecrans, his army stretched thin across Tennessee and Georgia, struggled to consolidate his men. Bragg, strengthened by
reinforcements under General James Longstreet — fresh from the Army of Northern Virginia — seized the moment.
Trouble in the Air: Lincoln, Rosecrans, and the Road to Chattanooga
Bragg’s attack was twopronged: Longstreet driving on the Confederate left, and General Leonidas Polk pressing on the right. Among the Confederate officers were prominent figures tied to national politics — including former U.S. Vice President John C. Breckinridge — and even President Lincoln’s own brother-in-law, Confederate General Benjamin Helm, who was killed in the fighting.
Amid the confusion, Rosecrans issued a poorly worded order to General Thomas Wood, unintentionally creating a gaping hole in the Union line. Bragg’s men surged through it, rolling up the Union flank in a massive breakthrough. In that moment, disaster loomed.
Yet one man stood fast. Major General George H. Thomas, refusing to yield, rallied his men on a wooded ridge and fought ferociously against repeated Confederate assaults. His steadfast defense allowed the battered Union army to withdraw toward Chattanooga. For his courage and composure under fire, Thomas earned a new name that would follow him for the rest of his life — “The Rock of Chickamauga.”
The Union army had suffered a stunning defeat. More than 35,000 men were killed, wounded, missing, or captured — making Chickamauga the bloodiest two-day battle of the entire war. Rosecrans’ leadership collapsed under the strain. As Lincoln grimly remarked, the general appeared “confused and stunned like a duck hit on the head.”
Grant Takes Command
In October 1863, with Union forces retreating into Chattanooga and the Confederates occupying the surrounding high ground, Lincoln acted decisively. On October 18, he relieved Rosecrans and placed command of the western theater in the hands of Major General Ulysses S. Grant,
the hero of Vicksburg.
Grant’s reputation was growing rapidly. He was a man of few words and immense determination — a general who fought to win. Critics in Washington whispered about his rumored drinking, but Lincoln would not hear of replacing him. “I can’t spare this man — he fights,” the president declared.
Grant’s journey to Chattanooga was itself perilous. En route, he suffered a severe injury when his horse fell, leaving him with a painful limp. Yet he pressed on, meeting Secretary of War Edwin Stanton in Indianapolis to receive his orders. Stanton offered him a choice: keep Rosecrans in command of the Army of the Cumberland or replace him with Thomas. Grant, skeptical of Rosecrans’ judgment, chose Thomas, who pledged grimly that “we will hold the town till we starve.”
By October 23, Grant arrived in Chattanooga amid cold rain and weary soldiers. The situation was dire — the army was nearly surrounded, low on rations, and morale was sinking. Thomas and his officers, still shaken from Chickamauga, received Grant coolly. Drenched, dirty, and exhausted, Grant ignored formalities, sat by the fire, lit a cigar, and began issuing orders. In that moment, Union command took on a new tone: quiet resolve and unyielding purpose.
Opening the “Cracker Line”
Grant’s first task was to feed his army. The Confederate siege had cut off supply lines, leaving men and horses starving. Grant quickly devised a plan to reopen communication along the Tennessee River — a supply route soon known as the “Cracker Line.” Within days, food and ammunition began flowing into Chattanooga, reviving the exhausted troops and restoring confidence throughout the ranks.
Under Grant’s unified command, three armies now operated in concert: Thomas’s Army of the Cumberland, elements of the Army of the Potomac under General Joseph Hooker, and the Army of the Tennessee under General William T. Sherman. Together, these forces represented the most powerful concentration of Union strength in the western theater.
Grant’s steady leadership produced immediate results. Soldiers who had been despondent just weeks earlier now saw wagons arriving daily with rations, weapons, and reinforcements. Morale soared. Lincoln, though he had never met Grant, watched with admiration from Washington as reports arrived of the general’s methodical control and quiet efficiency under immense pressure.
Bragg’s Missteps Meanwhile, Bragg squandered his advantage. Despite holding the commanding heights around Chattanooga, his leadership was plagued by distrust and dissent. He alienated his subordinates and constantly quarreled with his officers. Even in victory, Bragg managed to demoralize his army.
Rather than pressing his siege to its full potential, Bragg weakened his position by detaching key units. He sent Longstreet’s corps north toward Knoxville to confront Union General Ambrose Burnside and later stripped away additional divisions under Generals Simon Bolivar Buckner and Patrick Cleburne. Each departure drained the Confederate strength encircling Chattanoo-
ga, just as Grant’s forces were growing.
Bragg’s temperament had long been a liability. A veteran of the Mexican War, he was known for his combative nature — even once writing a letter of complaint to his own supply officer, only to discover that he himself held the post. His superior reportedly quipped, “Captain Bragg, you have fought with every officer in the army — and now you are fighting with yourself.” That anecdote, humorous though it was, captured Bragg’s fatal flaw: an inability to cooperate or inspire loyalty among his men.
The Union Resurgent As the weeks passed, the situation reversed. Each day, Grant’s logistical genius and calm authority strengthened the Union’s grip on Chattanooga. The arrival of Sherman’s troops, Hooker’s reinforcements, and the reopened supply lines transformed despair into determination. Where Rosecrans had seen confusion and collapse, Grant saw opportunity.
Grant’s experience as a quartermaster during the Mexican War had taught him the value of logistics — that an army’s strength lay as much in its stomach as in its strategy. He made sure his soldiers and horses were fed, equipped, and ready to fight. His understanding of both professional and volunteer soldiers gave him a rare ability to command respect across the ranks.
For President Lincoln, Grant’s success at Chattanooga proved that he finally had a general who understood the grim necessity of relentless combat. Grant would fight until victory was achieved — and never shrink from responsibility. Together, Lincoln and Grant would form the partnership that ultimately preserved the Union and brought the Civil War to its close.
Next week’s story: The Battle of Chattanooga and the Rise of Ulysses S. Grant to Lieutenant General.
Brookhaven to co-sponsor annual Teddy Bear Run for children
By South Shore Press
The Town of Brookhaven’s Department of General Services Youth Bureau, through its INTERFACE Program, will co-sponsor the Red Knights Motorcycle Club New York Chapter 26 “Teddy Bear Run” on Sunday, November 23. The event aims to collect new teddy bears for children in need as part of the Youth Bureau’s Holiday Toy Drive.
Registration for the event
will start at 10:30 a.m. at the Rose Caracappa Senior Center in Mount Sinai. The motorcycle ride will begin at noon and end with a lunch at Painters’ Restaurant in Brookhaven. Non-riders are invited to join the lunch at 1:00 p.m. The participation fee is $25 per rider and passenger, or $30 per person without a teddy bear. The first 100 riders will receive a free t-shirt.
Supervisor Daniel J. Panico expressed appreciation for the
annual event, stating, “I want to thank the Red Knights Motorcycle Club New York Chapter 26 for holding this event every year. Because of their generosity, children across Brookhaven will experience the joy of receiving their own teddy bear this holiday season.” The event will take place regardless of weather conditions. If there is inclement weather, participants are asked to bring their teddy bears directly to Painters’ Restaurant at 1:00
p.m. More information is available at brookhavenny.gov/ teddybearrun or by contacting the Red Knights at 631-9059082.
INTERFACE is a collaboration between individuals, corporations, and community organizations in Brookhaven to provide assistance to residents in need. The program includes about 100 partner organizations and addresses various social issues in the community.
Chat GPT
Photo Illustration
Town of Brookhaven
Daniel J. Panico Supervisor
Strassfield on Halloween Silent Disco: ‘Building community through the arts’
By Donna Rolando
The Halloween Silent Disco returns to the Southampton Arts Center (SAC) on Saturday, Nov. 1, with a new twist: this year’s dance party will move outdoors. Instead of tents, the open-air event will feature festive bistro lights to attract passersby, enhancing the sense of community connection.
“It becomes more festive,” said SAC Executive Director Christina Mossaides Strassfield. “People walking by can see it, get engaged, grab headsets, and start dancing with us. They can even buy tickets at the door.” Tickets are also available online for $20 for adult non-members, $15
for members, and $5 for kids under 12.
The rain-or-shine event will run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at SAC, located at 25 Jobs Lane, with the theater serving as the backup venue in case of bad weather. The popular party, which now draws about 200 participants, encourages costumes and will feature prizes for the most spirited adult and children’s outfits, plus a raffle with local prizes and treats.
This year’s costume contest will be judged by a panel of SAC staff members. Strassfield, who has dressed as a gypsy and a NASA astronaut in the past, recalled that last year’s children’s winner was a boy dressed as a Lego. “It’s something that has become super
popular,” she said of the annual event, now in its sixth year.
Each participant receives a Quiet Events LED headset with three music channels— contemporary, 80s, and a mix from the ‘60s to ‘90s—identified by color. “You can dance with someone with the same color or completely different,” Strassfield said.
Calling it more of a “friend-raiser” than a fundraiser, Strassfield said the disco unites all ages. “Our mission is building community through the arts.”
“Our mission statement is building community through the arts,” she said.
For more information, visit southamptonartscenter.org.
Residents invited to WaterTalk event in Center Moriches
By Robert Chartuk
Residents are invited to learn more about their drinking water at the next WaterTalk event hosted by the Suffolk County Water Authority on October 29th at 6:00 p.m. at the Center Moriches Library. A virtual option will also be available at SCWA.com.
The session will give community members the chance to ask questions, hear from water experts about local water quality, and get tips on conserving water while keeping bills affordable. Long Island relies on an underground aquifer, replenished by rainwater, which provides fresh drinking water to households across the region.
“We rely on a remarkable
underground aquifer for our fresh water,” said SCWA Board Chairman Charles Lefkowitz.
“It’s a critical resource for Suffolk County—on an island surrounded by salt water—and it’s essential that residents understand the value of protecting and maintaining this supply.”
Lefkowitz emphasized the importance of a safe, reliable water system. “Every day, people depend on clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing. Our goal is to make sure every household has access to water they can trust, while also promoting responsible use and conservation,” he said.
Heading deep into the aquifer, wells can access water locked away since the glacier that created Long Island receded after the last Ice Age.
SCWA Chief Executive Officer Jeff Szabo added, “We encourage Suffolk residents to take an active role in learning about where their water comes from. These WaterTalk events give the public a chance to engage directly with our experts and gain confidence in the safety, quality, and value of their drinking water.”
Residents who wish to attend in person can RSVP by emailing WaterTalk@SCWA. com.
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation serving roughly 1.2 million residents. Operating on a notfor-profit basis without taxing power, SCWA provides safe, reliable, and affordable water throughout the county.
WFSD students visit Riverhead Building Supply for hands-on learning
By The South Shore Press
Students from William Floyd High School’s Business Ownership & Management and Woodworking courses recently visited Riverhead Building Supply to gain firsthand experience in a manufacturing and distribution environment.
During the visit, students were given an overview of the company and a detailed schedule for the day. They toured the facility while wearing safety gear and observed the company’s processes for stocking and organizing bulk materials. The group also toured the corporate offices and met with the director of human resources to discuss topics such as job
applications, resumes, and employment expectations.
Students participated in a question-and-answer session
with human resources representatives and had the opportunity to network with company executives.
“Riverhead Building Supply is a valued member of our advisory board and an important member in our Business, CTE, and Technology programs,” said Jacqueline Giacalone, Business & Technology Chairperson, and Business Education teacher at William Floyd High School. “To earn their program endorsements, students are required to complete 54 hours of work-based learning. These experiences are essential in helping students develop real-world skills, apply classroom knowledge in authentic settings, and prepare for future success.”
The Business Ownership & Management course is available to students in grades 10 through 12. It covers how to
create a business plan and provides background on starting and managing a small business. Juniors and seniors can earn college credit for this course through Farmingdale State College or Suffolk County Community College’s Beacon Program.
The Woodworking course is a one-year program for grades 10 through 12. It allows students to learn practical skills related to woodworking, including types of wood, tools, and techniques. The course includes hands-on activities such as building furniture or crafting designs.
This field trip is part of William Floyd High School’s ongoing efforts to build relationships with local employers.
SCWA
Water Talk on tap in Center Moriches.
WFSD
Riverhead Building Supply
Joe Diamond
Halloween Silent Disco is back with dancing and costumery at Southampton Arts Center.
ASK NANCY
BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.
Q: I store photos, documents, and account information online. What happens to these digital assets after I pass away, and how can I make sure my family has access?
A:As our lives become more connected to technology, planning for digital property has become just as important as planning for tangible assets. Many people keep records, photographs, and financial information online but do not consider what happens to these records and accounts after death. Without proper
planning, loved ones may have difficulty accessing or preserving these items.
A good place to begin is by taking inventory of your digital life. This includes email accounts, social media, online banking, cloud storage, and photo sharing platforms. Digital assets now extend beyond these common accounts. Today, they may also include cryptocurrency, NFTs, online businesses, and other property stored in digital wallets or the cloud. These assets reflect the growing digitization and decentralization of wealth, trends that continue to shape how we manage and transfer property. Because these holdings often lack paper records or traditional account statements, advance planning for access and control has become essential.
Some online platforms, such as Facebook, allow you to name a “legacy contact” to manage or memorialize your page. Others, like Google and Apple, let you select who may access or close your account. Taking advantage of these settings helps ensure your wishes are carried out.
It is equally important to
Planning for Your Digital Legacy: How to Protect and Pass On Your Online Assets
maintain a secure record of your usernames, passwords, and wallet keys. This list should be stored safely with your estate planning documents or in a password manager. Keeping it current makes it easier for your appointed fiduciary to locate your accounts and follow your instructions. Estate planning today must also account for newer and more complex forms of wealth. Many individuals now hold cryptocurrency or other digital investments that exist outside traditional banking systems. Without clear written instructions and secure access information, these assets can be difficult for fiduciaries to locate, or may even be lost at death. Including specific directions for how these holdings should be managed and distributed is now a key part of a comprehensive estate plan.In New York, the Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act, enacted in 2016, allows fiduciaries to access a person’s digital property, but does not allow for control of the underlying property. Granting the power to control digital assets must be clearly stated within your Power of
Attorney, Will, and/or Trust. If your estate planning documents do not mention digital assets, they should be reviewed and updated with your estate planning attorney. Beyond financial accounts, digital planning is also about preserving your story. Family photos, videos, and creative work capture your memories and values. Including these assets in your estate plan ensures your digital presence is handled with care and that the things most meaningful to you
are passed on to those you love. - Alma Muharemovic, Esq. is an associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning. Michal Lipshitz, Esq. is a Senior Associate at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.
LIBRARY LIVING
BY TARA D’AMATO Assistant Library Director
Your Library Loves to Help –Resources for Adults
Life isn’t always easy. We have bad habits, we need help planning for when we get older, and we need help with the bills. The library has special workshops to get you the help you need with everyday problems. Check out these classes you can attend for free in November to help clear up some of the issues that are bothering you.
Learn To Be....Tobacco Free: Wednesdays, Nov. 5, 12, 19, Dec. 3, 10, 17 and January 7, 6 – 7:15 p.m. Held at our Main Building. Register now with Suffolk County Department of Health
This free, multi-session program is offered by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services and is based on the CDC’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for treating nicotine dependence; focusing on the physical, behavioral and psychological aspects of nicotine dependence. Nicotine Replacement Therapies are available for a nominal fee. Those who use all forms of tobacco including cigarettes, chew, cigars and electronic cigarettes are welcome. For more information or to register, call Debora at 631-853-2928 or email debora.rippel@suffolkcountyny. gov. You must register with Suffolk County Department of Health Services to participate.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group: Thursdays, Nov. 6 & 20, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Held at our Main Building. Registration
begins Friday, Oct. 24.
The Family and Children’s Association is hosting a monthly support group for persons who care for someone with dementia or memory loss, which provides caregivers with emotional and social support, as well as educational materials to assist with caring for their loved ones. This group is for spouses, children, or any other family members or friends who are caring for someone with memory loss. Please register for both sessions if you would like to attend both. Open to all.
PSEG Financial Assistance Workshop: Monday, Nov. 10, 7 – 8 p.m. Held at our Main Building. Registration begins Tuesday, Oct. 28.
PSEG Long Island will be onsite to present on financial assistance opportunities and programs available to residential customers, as well as some information to help understand the makeup of customer energy bills and leveraging Time of Day Rates to save energy and money. A customer service representative will also be available to assist customers with account-specific issues.
A HIICAP counselor from RSVP can assist you with Medicare and health insurance questions, reviewing Medicare Part D plans and more. Appointments required. Open to all.
Happening at the
Adults
Register for programs three easy ways: in person, online at www.communitylibrary.org or contact the Adult Information Desk at 631-399-1511 ext. 2014 for the Moriches branch, ext. 1028 for the Mastic Beach branch or ext. 2024 for the Main Building, regardless of program location. Programs are for Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library cardholders only, unless otherwise stated.
Take Care of Yourself
Rooted in Growth
FUN & GAMES
Monday, March 24, 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
Registration begins Monday, March 3.
Chess Club
Everyone Loves a Story
What’s on your Nightstand?
Thursday, March 13, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Held at Sunsets at Senix Restaurant 50 Senix Ave, Center Moriches, NY
Registration begins Tuesday, March 4.
Thursdays, November 6, 13, 20, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
No registration required.
Plant your own succulent in a custom decorated planter while exploring themes of personal growth! Presented by Christine Szaraz from Stony Brook University’s Healing Arts program.
Join us to play some chess. You bring the skills, we provide the space. Feel free to bring your own chess set, if desired. Open to all.
Relax with Yoga
Tuesday, March 4, 11, 18, 25
3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Board Game Night
Thursday, November 6, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
No registration required.
Dungeons & Dragons
Deciding what to read next? Join us for a discussion about books at Sunsets at Senix! There is no assigned reading; chat about what you are currently reading, what you want to read, or your most favorite book of all time. Snacks will be provided. Wine and beer will be available for purchase. Open to all.
Book Discussion
Thursday, March 20, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Registration begins Thursday, February 20.
Attention all tabletop game enthusiasts! Come join Games Master Games for a night filled with board action. Open to all.
Saturday, November 15, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Registration begins Friday, November 7.
Attention Adventurers! Join the party and begin a brand-new campaign with Dungeon Master Eric!
Registration begins Tuesday, February 25. This in-person yoga practice is guided from a chair and a mat to provide options and variations for accessibility. You will be encouraged to move at your own pace and in a way that is kind to your body. It is a practice for beginners or anyone looking to find extra room to breathe and decompress. It will focus on connecting breath and movement and creating length and strength in the body.
Music Bingo
Wednesday, November 19, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Bernadette Fox is notorious. To her Microsoft-guru husband, she’s a fearlessly opinionated partner; to fellow private-school mothers in Seattle, she’s a disgrace; to design mavens, she’s a revolutionary architect; and to 15-year-old Bee, she is her best friend and, simply, Mom. Then Bernadette vanishes. It all began when Bee aced her report card and claimed her promised reward: a family trip to Antarctica. But Bernadette’s intensifying allergy to Seattle— and people in general – has made her so agoraphobic that a virtual assistant in India now runs her most basic errands. A trip to the end of the earth is problematic. To find her mother, Bee compiles email messages, official documents, and secret correspondence – creating a compulsively readable and surprisingly touching novel about misplaced genius and a mother and daughter’s role in an absurd world. Copies of the book will be available at our Main Branch starting February 20.
Home Improvement Workshop
Registration begins Wednesday, November 12.
Join us for a fun game of music bingo, featuring hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and today! Open to all.
Your Home’s Electrical System
Neighborhood Catch: Football
Saturday, March 29, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Thursday, November 20, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Registration begins Thursday, March 6.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
No registration required.
Football season is in full swing! Come down to our lawn to throw the ol’ pig skin around with your neighbors. Open to all.
Astronomy Star Party
Thursday, November 20, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
No registration necessary.
Join the AstroNots for a night of astronomy! Bring your own telescope or look through ours. Through the telescope you will observe galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and planets while learning how these spectacular objects form and evolve in the universe. Dress warmly and bring a lawn chair! Drop-in program.
Join Brian Schnee to learn how the electrical system in your house provides appropriate power to satisfy your electrical needs safely. This discussion will include your home’s incoming service, the main electrical panel board, wiring materials, outlets, smoke detectors and safety measures. This class will be followed by an electrical workshop on April 5 where you will have the opportunity to wire your own outlets and light switches.
The featured March events and authors are:
Power of Reset and How to Change What’s Not Working #1 New York Times Bestselling
Women on the Hill
Children & Parents
Register for programs three easy ways: in person, online at www.communitylibrary.org or contact the Children’s Reference Desk at 631-399-1511 ext. 2016 for the Moriches Branch, ext. 1030 for the Mastic Beach Branch or ext. 2028 for the Main Building.
Crafts-To-Go can be picked up at all library locations. One craft per child, per visit please.
FAMILIES
ALL IN-PERSON PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED IN PERSON ONLY. SUPPLIES WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP.
Registration begins one week prior to each session unless otherwise noted.
Tail-Waggin’ and Readin’ Fun!
Mondays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Drop-in. No registration required.
Families with children Grade 5 and younger.
Monday, November 3 through Sunday, November 9 is Children’s Book Week! Keep your eyes peeled for real live book characters walking around the library throughout the week.
Children’s Book Week Storytime with Special Guests
Monday, November 3, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Vote Now: Children’s Book Champion
Held at our Main Building.
Tuesday, November 4, 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Register children only to represent the family. Families with children Grade 5 and younger.
Family Connect: Family Art Night
Drop-in. No registration required. Celebrate Children’s Book Week by voting for your favorite book! Whether it’s a picture book, chapter book, or graphic novel, you get to decide which book is the ultimate champion. Children in Grade 5 and younger.
Wednesday, November 5, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Drop-in. No registration required.
Please note this is an unstructured meetup. Families with children Grade 5 and younger.
Name Our Frosty Friend
Held at our Main Building.
Quogue Wildlife Refuge:
Drop-in. No registration required.
MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUR ONLINE PROGRAM CALENDAR FOR PROGRAM DETAILS.
New resources presented each month, stop by organizations/businesses/
Meet the Creatures of the Night!
Thursday, November 13, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Our snowman is back for another winter season and he still needs a name!
Held at our Main Building.
We need your coolest ideas!
Register one child to represent the family.
Families with at least one child ages 4 years through Grade 5. Program most appropriate for ages 4-10.
December 2-8: Come to the library and write down your most creative, family-friendly name suggestions for our frosty friend. December 9-15: Come back and vote for your favorite name from our top picks!
Saturday Morning Movies
The Super Mario Bros. Movie
New York Therapy Placement Services
families with expert therapy services, helping them navigate the special needs journey. Their team specializes in early identification and treatment of developmental delays, offering guidance, support, and collaborative care.
Drop-in.
No registration required.
Saturday, November 22, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
On Tuesday, December 16, the name with the most votes will become our Snowman’s official name and earn a special spot in library history! One entry or vote per child per day. Children in Grade 5 and younger.
Register one person to represent the family. Families with children Grade 5 and younger.
Calling All Collectors! Do you have a special collection of items or art that you would like to showcase (LEGOs, dolls, cars, etc.)?
We have a new display case in our department that would love to house your items under lock and key for one month. Everyone in the community can view your collection all month long. Call the Children’s reference desk 631-399-1511 ext. 2027 or email kidscollections@communitylibrary.org to find out more information and to book your month. *Collections are subject to department approval. Children Grade 5 and younger.
greatly assist law enforcement when a child is reported missing. Suffolk County Sheriffs will be on-site creating your cards as you wait.
Provides FREE resources connecting families and providers to community resources and child development information with the mission of promoting optimal development of Long
STATE
By Deborah Williams
Center Moriches student ‘represents’ at Brookhaven National Lab
Center Moriches High School is super proud of senior Alex Gentile for his participation in the highly competitive High School Research Program at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL).
Alex was one of just 56 rising high school seniors selected from across the nation to participate in the program, which offers students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on scientific research alongside leading scientists and researchers. His selection is testament to his academic excellence and strong commitment to exploring STEM fields.
“It was challenging and rigorous, but an incredible experi-
ence,” said Alex Gentile. “ I met so many new people, and I’d tell others not to doubt something they’ve never tried before.
During the program, Alex worked on a research project focused on non-proliferation and national security, a subject critical to global safety and scientific innovation. Alex joined fellow interns in presenting his research at the program’s graduation ceremony, proudly representing Center Moriches and the larger Long Island community on a national stage.
“Alex is a true lifelong learner who embraced this incredible opportunity at Brookhaven National Lab with curiosity and determination,” said Center Moriches High School Principal Mangogna. “ We are so proud of
Alex as he represented Center Moriches High School with pride and professionalism, deepened his own understanding, and inspired his peers to pursue their passions.”
The Center Moriches School District also extends its heartfelt thanks to Ms. Margaret Romaine and Ms. Marissa Clifford, whose letters of recommendation played a pivotal role in Alex’s acceptance into the program. Their support underscores the strength of our school community and the importance of educators who go above and beyond for their students.
For more information on the Center Moriches Union Free School District, visit the district’s website at cmschools.org or #CMSchools.
Get ready for better roads in Suffolk County
By Deborah Williams
The State of New York just released its list of funded 2026 road re-pavement projects and Suffolk County roads are about the get a lot better. Over $57 million in new funds is allocated to Suffolk County.
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will invest more than $600 million in over 180 paving projects statewide to be completed next year. These projects, which total almost 2,150 lane miles, are in addition to the paving initiatives already scheduled as part of NYSDOT’s core programs and, taken together, represent the most ambitious annual road resurfacing agenda ever put forward by NYSDOT.
“As someone who has ridden on virtually every mile of every state road across New
York, I know firsthand every curve and every pothole, and next year we will be making an unprecedented investment to improve state roads across New York,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers will be seeing crews out there like never before next year, rejuvenating highways, enhancing the safety of the traveling public, and laying a solid foundation for economic development across the Empire State.”
Long Island is funded for 8 project totaling $107,000,000 and 225 lane miles. The Suffolk County specific projects include:
• $23.1 million to resurface NY24 from the Meadowbrook State Parkway to NY110,
Towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay and Babylon, Nassau and Suffolk counties
• $7.3 million to resurface NY25 from Kings Park Road to NY111, Town of Smithtown, Suffolk County.
• $8.7 million to resurface NY27 North and South Service Roads from NY109 to Udall Road, Towns of Babylon and Islip, Suffolk County.
• $11.1 million to resurface NY27 from the Nassau/Suffolk County Line to North Monroe Avenue, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County
• $7 million to resurface NY110 from NY27 to Baylis Road, Towns of Babylon and Huntington, Suffolk County.
First County Line Cup Honors Fallen FDNY Firefighter
By The South Shore Press
Police officers from Nassau and Suffolk counties gathered on the Sayville High School lacrosse field this past weekend for a cause close to their hearts: honoring the memory of FDNY firefighter Joseph Herman, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident on September 5, 2025.
The inaugural County Line Cup brought the two departments together in a competitive lacrosse match to raise money for Herman’s family. Organizers plan to hold the event annually, with future proceeds benefiting charities supporting first responders.
“All the guys on the team have played with Joseph at one time or another,” said Nassau County coach Drew Viscusi. “This is more than just a game for us.
We’re all at the age where we have young kids, and we hope our brothers would do the same for us. It’s not just about raising money—it’s about bringing the community together and showing that we love and support each other, on and off the field.”
The event was sponsored by Miller & Caggiano, LLP, marking the second first responder lacrosse fundraiser the law firm has supported this year. “As a law firm that represents many first responders, we see firsthand the sacrifices they and their families make,” said attorney Jacob Bloom. “Sponsoring this event is our way of giving back to the community and honoring the memory of Joseph Herman. It’s about standing by those who serve us every day.”
Nassau goalie Billy McEnroe, father of two young daughters,
said, “I’d like to think that, God forbid, if something happened to me, my fellow officers would step up for my family like this.” Team president Joe Arlotta added, “This is also about connecting with the community. We had a great turnout, and Sayville, being such a strong lacrosse town, showed up in a big way to support the cause.”
In the end, Nassau narrowly defeated Suffolk 9–7. Proceeds from the event, including T-shirt sales and donations, will go directly to support Herman’s family, and additional contributions are being accepted online at fdnyfoundation.org. The County Line Cup offered not only a competitive game but also a reminder of the bonds between first responders and the communities they serve.
Grok/Twitter
$57 million in road projects for Suffolk County.
Center Moriches Union Free School District
Alex Gentile presenting his research project focused on Non-Proliferation and National Security.
FDNY Foundation
First County Line Cup.
By Robert Chartuk
A shocking new undercover investigation has revealed widespread abuse within the federal government’s 8(a) contracting program, exposing how companies exploit minority-owned business status to win lucrative federal contracts — then quietly outsource most of the work to noncompliant firms.
Hidden-camera footage obtained by O’Keefe Media Group shows senior executives openly describing how easy it is to game the system. One official explained that his firm acted as a “pass-through,” using its “Native-owned” designation to win bids reserved for socially and economically disadvan-
Massive fraud exposed in federal contracting program
taged small businesses. “They do all the work,” he said of the subcontractors. “I just sit back, collect my percentage, and they do the work.”
The 8(a) Business Development Program, overseen by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), was designed to help disadvantaged entrepreneurs compete in the federal marketplace and grow their operations. But the new findings suggest the system has become riddled with loopholes and manipulation, funneling hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to corporations that merely pretend to meet the eligibility rules.
The exposé is part of a months-long probe led by investigative journalist James
O’Keefe, who said the recordings expose systemic corruption that has gone largely unchecked. “This isn’t one bad actor — it’s a structural scam,” O’Keefe said. “The 8(a) program has turned into a hundred-billion-dollar shell game where politically connected firms profit while real small businesses are left behind.”
Following publication of the report, the SBA confirmed it has launched an internal review into possible misconduct within the 8(a) system. Lawmakers have also begun calling for congressional oversight hearings to ensure accountability. O’Keefe said additional footage will be released soon, revealing how the exploitation of minority contracting rules has drained
funds away from the very communities the program was intended to uplift.
In 2022 for example, the SBA distributed approximately $19.7 billion through the program.
Suffolk bond sale reflects solid fiscal health
By Robert Chartuk
Suffolk has successfully sold $188.7 million in tax-exempt bonds through a competitive sale, raising funds to support its ongoing capital improvement program, according to County Comptroller John Kennedy.
Jefferies, LLC, a leading global full-service investment banking and capital markets firm, submitted the winning bid at a 2.96% interest rate — the lowest the county has achieved in several years. The sale drew robust investor interest, with overall bids totaling $1.5 billion.
“This was a highly successful sale with great results for our taxpayers,” Kennedy said. “Strong
investor confidence in the county’s credit worthiness and conservative fiscal management
helped us secure these favorable financing terms.”
Proceeds from the bond sale
will fund critical infrastructure projects, including road repairs, facility upgrades, and other public assets, the Comptroller said.
The successful sale reflects the county’s continued fiscal stability and disciplined financial management, according to County Executive Ed Romaine, who highlighted the importance of long-term budgeting in maintaining Suffolk’s strong credit ratings.
“The market has faith in our ability to pay our debts — debts which fund roads, bridges, sewering, and other vital infrastructure — and accordingly lends money to us at a lower interest rate,” Romaine said.
Since 2024, the county has seen its credit ratings reaffirmed
at ‘AA-’ by the agencies S&P and Fitch, with Fitch also upgrading a number of the county’s outstanding bonds. Romaine credited the county’s conservative budgeting, growing reserves, and careful allocation of resources for these achievements.
He emphasized that fiscal discipline has not come at the expense of services, citing improvements in police staffing, DSS processing times, and 311 call response.
By leveraging its strong credit and low borrowing costs, Suffolk County continues to invest in infrastructure and public services while keeping taxpayer costs down. “These efforts position Suffolk for further credit improvements and long-term financial resilience,” Romaine noted.
By Deborah Williams
The Avery Homestead is hosting what they hope will be an annual Fall Fest.
Suffolk County Parks Department and the Greater Patchogue Historical Society join County Executive Ed Romaine and Legislator Dominick Thorne to offer a whole host of family fun. Admission is free so you have no excuse not to come out an enjoy the festivities.
Join with your friends and neighbors for a fun day of activities, shopping, and historic exploration. There will be antique, collectable, and craft vendors along with children’s games and house and barn
tours. The Little Red Shed will be also be open. Fall Festival is happening Saturday, November 1, 10-4
pm at Avery Homestead County Park, 29 S. Country Road, East Patchogue.
Jim Roselle, President, Greater Patchogue Historical Society, said “When the park was acquired, the County came to us and said they would responsible for restoration and upkeep, and we would manage all the events. During the summer we had music at the barn and next up after Fall Fest is a Christmas tree lighting the first week of December.”
Avery Homestead’s oldest structure is a ca. 1820 house
where generations of Averys were born and raised. This structure is being restored. According to Preservation Long Island, “The land itself has deep colonial roots via the Averys, who are patrilineal descendants of Humphrey Avery (1699–1788) of Connecticut. Humphrey Avery originally purchased the homestead land—along with most of what is now Patchogue and Blue Point in 1752.
Spanning from Bellport to Blue Point along the Great South Bay to the middle of the island, the land comprised a large tract acquired by Connecticut Governor John Winthrop Jr. in 1664 from Tobacus, an Unkechaug
sachem.
Humphrey Avery Jr. (1725–1789) was among the
first Averys to permanently settle in the Patchogue area.
Chat GPT
Suffolk County recently sold $188.7 million in bonds.
SBA
Small Business Administration
Avery Homestead is hosting its first Fall Fest
Suffolk County Parks Department First ever Fall Fest to take place at the Avery Homestead.
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
The following self storage unit contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by StorQuest Self Storage, 10 Frowein Rd, Center Moriches, NY 11934 To satisfy a Lien on November 11,2025. 121A John Molesi, 2-94C Katie Prebish, 2-119D Michael Bihary L16377 - 10/29/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR BANC OF AMERICA FUNDING CORPORATION MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH
CERTIFICATES, SERIES 20072, Plaintiff - against - GEORGIA PETERSON AKA GEORGIA D. PETERSON AKA GEORGIA B. PETERSON AKA GEORGIA B. KNIGHT AKA GEORGIA DELAIN PETERSON, et al
Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on August 5, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on the 6th day of November, 2025 at 12:30 PM.
All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in South Setauket, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Premises known as 18 Brayton South Court, Centereach, NY 11720, a/k/a 18 Brayton Court North, South Setauket, NY 11720. (District: 0200, Section: 389.00, Block: 01.00, Lot: 041.001) Approximate amount of lien $968,452.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 600839/2015. Michael T. Clancy, Esq., Referee. The deposit must be paid by certified check or bank check made payable to the Referee. Cash will not be accepted. 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
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. Auction Locations are subject to change.
L16358- 10/8/25, 10/15/25, 10/ 22/25, & 10/29/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Suffolk PNC Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST Darlene A. Bubel, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 29, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on December 2, 2025 at 12:00 PM premises known as 91 Westminster Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. 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: 938.20, BLOCK: 02.00, LOT: 025.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $543,750.03 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 611554/2022. Giuseppe Rosini, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 7, 2025. Office location: Suffolk County, NY. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: 6 Mount Logan Court, Farmingville, NY 11738. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on October 2025. Office located in Suffolk County, NY. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to 60 Appel Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. Purpose: Baking and selling home-made goods.
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST EDDIE ROMAN, CARMEN ROSADO, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 26, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 254 Auborn Avenue, Shirley, NY 11967. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200, Section 746.00, Block 03.00, Lot 005.000. Approximate amount of judgment $238,215.88 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603642/ 2018.Harvey B. Besunder, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-006778 87308
HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2005-4, RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSET-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2005-4, Plaintiff, AGAINST VANESSA L. SULLIVAN AKA VANESSA SULLIVAN, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on November 25, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM premises known as 50 Astor Drive, 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 in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 587.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 028.002-028.004. Approximate amount of judgment
$296,096.54 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #609710/2019. Samantha Segal, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 L16370 - 10/22/2025, 10/29/ 2025, 11/5/2025, & 11/12/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that an On-Premise Liquor License with Temporary Retail Permit, NYS Application ID: NA-0340-25130874 has been applied for by Doherty Ramen Lake Grove, LLC serving beer, wine, cider, mead and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a restaurant, for the premises located at 3176 Middle Country Rd Unit B Lake Grove NY 11755. L16371- 10/22/2025 & 10/29/ 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 2022-1, Plaintiff against NEW BEGINNINGS FRESH START LLC; MICHELLE DRIVER, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE OF THE MARY E. DODSON REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST DATED JULY 12, 2021, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065 and . Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 14, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 19, 2025 at 11:30 AM. Premises known as 63 West Lane, Medford, NY 11763. District 0200 Sec 527.00 Block 01.00 Lot 020.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $213,522.66 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 611997/2024. 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.
L16360- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of Formation of Grounded Glow LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 10/10/ 2025. Office in Suffolk County. SSNY designated agent for service of process; mail to 195 Nassau Blvd Unit B, Garden City South NY 11530. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, MECKLENBURG COUNTY In the MECKLENBURG COUNTY DISTRICT COURT
Jeimy Baez, Plaintiff, vs. James Matzen, Defendant TO: James Matzen Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed as required to be filed not later than forty (40) days after the date of the first publication of this notice, in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Complaint for Child Custody You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the first publication of this notice, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought. This, the October 06, 2025 day of _________, _________. (Party) Jeimy Baez _________ (Address) 6908 Centerline Drive, Charlotte, NC 28278
L16364- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of Formation of Tide to the Bay, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/12/2025. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: Tide to the Bay, LLC, 382 Bernice Drive, Bayport, NY 11705. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. DEBORAH DAWSON AKA DEBORAH DAVAN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 23, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 19, 2025 at 12:30 p.m., premises known as 489 Carnation Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 615.00, Block 04.00 and Lot 007.002. Approximate amount of judgment is $392,962.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #208227/ 2022. Cash will not be accepted. Brooke J. Breen, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff L16361- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ABFC 2007WMC1 TRUST ASSET BACKED FUNDING CORPORATION ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-WMC1 -againstRENEE SCHIEFERSTEIN A/K/ A RENEE CARRICK AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ELEANOR A. SCHIEFERSTEIN, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on September 27, 2023, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ABFC 2007-WMC1 TRUST ASSET BACKED FUNDING CORPORATION ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-WMC1 is the Plaintiff and RENEE SCHIEFERSTEIN A/K/A RENEE CARRICK AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ELEANOR A. SCHIEFERSTEIN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on November 18, 2025 at 12:00PM, premises known as 59 BROADWAY, SHIRLEY, NY 11967; and the following tax map identification: 0200-907.00 -07.00-002.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND
IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 617683/ 2016. Giuseppe T. Rosini, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing.
*LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
L16363- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-25 Plaintiff, Against James P. Walsh; Stephanie M. Walsh; John F. O'Neill, his successors or assigns, as Commissioner of Social Services of Suffolk County, Social Services District; People of the State of New York; Peter Meyer; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; John T. Mather Memorial Hospital; Glenn Hesselbach and Debra Hesselbach; Jaime Correia as Executor of the Estate of Florence Van Brussel; Equable Ascent Financial, LLC; Penny Whyard; Capital One Bank USA, NA; Springleaf Home Equity, Inc. f/k/a American Gen. Home Equity, Inc.; Colonial Woods Condominium; Midland Funding LLC; Continued Care of LI, Inc.; Southside Hospital; Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC; Claire Gangi; Peconic Bay Medical Center; Autovest, L.L.C.; Clerk of the Suffolk County District Court; Clerk of the Suffolk County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency; Commissioners of the State Insurance Fund; Contemporary Dental Associates; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; Internal Revenue Service; Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/16/ 2021, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 11/7 /2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 27 Pineway Avenue, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the
Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 970.00 Block 02.00 Lot 012.000 and 013.000. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $469,411.27 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604429/2019 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee. SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 L16357 - 10/8/25, 10/15/25, 10/ 22/25, & 10/29/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company, Plaintiff AGAINST Aaron Ruff a/ k/a Aaron G. Ruff, Individually and on behalf of the Estate of Millinee Thomas; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 15, 2021, amended November 22, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 20, 2025, at 9:00AM, premises known as 108 Wilson Avenue, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Middle Island, 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.
Brian Egan, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION SUBJECT TO PERMISSIVE REFERENDUM NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Moriches Fire District, in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, at a regularly scheduled meeting thereof held on the 20th day of October, 2025, duly adopted, subject to a permissive referendum, the following resolution: BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Moriches Fire District
expend a sum not to exceed Eighty Thousand and 00/100 ($80,000.00) dollars from the Equipment Reserve Fund for the necessary purchase of one (1) command vehicle with necessary related equipment in order to maintain the high standards of safety and performance of the East Moriches Fire Department in the discharge of its duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the East Moriches Fire District. RESOLVED, that this resolution is adopted subject to a permissive referendum as provided in Article 2 of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York, and that in accordance therewith, the Fire District Secretary shall give notice of adoption of this resolution by publishing a copy of the notice of adoption once in the South Shore Press Newspaper and Southampton Press Newspaper Western Edition.
THIS RESOLUTION shall not take effect until thirty (30) days after publication of this abstract. Any person desiring to petition must submit a valid petition within such time meeting the requirements of law.
L16376 - 10/29/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY MID-ISLAND MORTGAGE CORP., Plaintiff against MUHAMMET OZEN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered August 21, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on November 19, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 1 Ellen Ct, Lake Grove, NY 11755. District 0208 Sec 008.00 Block 11.00 Lot 029.000. 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 Lake Grove, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $412,399.72 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 605329/2016. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the 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. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. 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.
Steven P. Bertolino, Esq., Referee File # NY202200000067-1
L16359- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK BOARD OF MANAGERS OF ARTIST LAKE CONDOMINIUM, Plaintiff, against ANASTASIA 1031 CAPITAL LLC; and "JOHN DOE" AND “JANE DOE”, Defendants. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated July 21, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York, on November 17, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. premises being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, known and designated as Home No. 161 as shown on condominium plan entitled, "Artist Lake Condominium", and filed in the Suffolk County Clerks Office as Map Number 30, together with a .2909% undivided interest in the common elements of the condominium as same is defined in the Declaration of Condominium entitled "Artist Lake Condominium" recorded in the Suffolk County Clerks Office in Liber 7581 Page 56. Said premises being known as 161 Artist Lake, Middle Island, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York (District 0200, Section 434.00, Block 03.00, Lot No. 060.000). Said premises will be sold subject to zoning restrictions, covenants, easements, conditions, reservations and agreements, if any; subject to any state of facts as may appear from an accurate survey; subject to facts as to possession and occupancy and subject to whatever physical condition of the premises may be; subject to any violations of the zoning and other municipal ordinances and regulations, if any, and if the United States of America should file a tax lien, or other lien, subject to the equity of redemption of the United States of America; subject to the rights of any lienors of record whose liens have not been foreclosed herein, if any; subject to the rights of holders of security in
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fixtures as defined by the Uniform Commercial Code; subject to taxes, assessments and water rates which are liens on the premises at the time of sale, with accrued interest or penalties thereon and a first mortgage held by Denise Langweber & Laurence Langweber ($50,000.00), Henry Epstein ($25,000.00) Charles Sallah ($30,000.00) and Pitnick & Margolin LLP 401k f/b/o CL Margolin ($45,000.00), mortgagee, given to ANASTASIA 1031 CAPITAL LLC, mortgagor, in the original amount of $150,000.00 dated 4/ 28/2022 and recorded 6/10/ 2022 in Liber 23426 at page 101. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED ONLY BANK OR CERTIFIED CHECKS
fixtures as defined by the Uniform Commercial Code; subject to taxes, assessments and water rates which are liens on the premises at the time of sale, with accrued interest or penalties thereon and a first mortgage held by Denise Langweber & Laurence Langweber ($50,000.00), Henry Epstein ($25,000.00) Charles Sallah ($30,000.00) and Pitnick & Margolin LLP 401k f/b/o CL Margolin ($45,000.00), mortgagee, given to ANASTASIA 1031 CAPITAL LLC, mortgagor, in the original amount of $150,000.00 dated 4/ 28/2022 and recorded 6/10/ 2022 in Liber 23426 at page 101. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED ONLY BANK OR CERTIFIED CHECKS
PAYABLE TO JOHN LOUIS JULIANO, ESQ., AS REFEREE. Index No. 617437/2024 Dated: October 6, 2025 John Louis Juliano, Esq., Referee Cohen, Warren, Meyer & Gitter, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 98 Maple Avenue, Suite 100, Smithtown, NY 11787.
PAYABLE TO JOHN LOUIS JULIANO, ESQ., AS REFEREE. Index No. 617437/2024 Dated: October 6, 2025 John Louis Juliano, Esq., Referee Cohen, Warren, Meyer & Gitter, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 98 Maple Avenue, Suite 100, Smithtown, NY 11787.
L16362- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
L16362- 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10/ 29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF FORMATION
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Notice of formation of 5 TALL TREE, LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 10/1/ 2025. 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 YVONNE YAKABOSKI, PO BOX 1912, RIVERHEAD, NY 11901, USA. Purpose: any lawful purpose. L16365 - 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10 /29/25, 11/05/25, 11/12/2025 & 11/19/2025
Notice of formation of 5 TALL TREE, LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 10/1/ 2025. 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 YVONNE YAKABOSKI, PO BOX 1912, RIVERHEAD, NY 11901, USA. Purpose: any lawful purpose. L16365 - 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10 /29/25, 11/05/25, 11/12/2025 & 11/19/2025
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subject to taxes, assessments and water rates which are liens on the premises at the time of sale, with accrued interest or penalties thereon and a first mortgage held by Denise Langweber & Laurence Langweber ($50,000.00), Henry Epstein ($25,000.00) Charles Sallah ($30,000.00) and Pitnick & Margolin LLP 401k f/b/o CL Margolin ($45,000.00), mortgagee, given to ANASTASIA 1031 CAPITAL LLC, mortgagor, in the original amount of $150,000.00 dated 4/ 28/2022 and recorded 6/10/ 2022 in Liber 23426 at page 101. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED ONLY BANK OR CERTIFIED CHECKS PAYABLE TO JOHN LOUIS
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JULIANO, ESQ., AS REFEREE. Index No. 617437/2024 Dated: October 6, 2025 John Louis Juliano, Esq., Referee Cohen, Warren, Meyer & Gitter, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 98 Maple Avenue, Suite 100, Smithtown, NY 11787.
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Notice of formation of 5 TALL TREE, LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 10/1/ 2025. 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 YVONNE YAKABOSKI, PO BOX 1912, RIVERHEAD, NY 11901, USA. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
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THE FANTASY BASEBALL EXPERIENCE
The risks of the unknown Okamoto
By Tom Barton
Among the fantasy baseball community, it’s not just the next great thing that excites fans, but also the newest diamond that always seems to shine the brightest—even if that diamond is a complete unknown. Sometimes that unknown gem turns out to be Yamamoto, Ichiro, or even Ohtani. Other times, they end up being Hideki Irabu, Hyeseong Kim, or Kei Igawa.
This week, it was reported that another relatively unknown player to fantasy communities will be posted and likely added to the player pool. While we don’t yet know where he’ll play, conversations have already begun about where he should be drafted. NPB infielder Kazuma Okamoto will be posted for MLB clubs, according to an announcement made by the Yomiuri Giants and Okamoto
himself during a press conference earlier this week.
The 29-year-old Okamoto comes with plenty of intrigue. He was the club’s captain as well as a six-time All-Star with two Gold Gloves and three NPB home run titles to his name. His 2025 season was limited to just 69 Central League games due to an elbow injury caused by a collision at first base, but he still managed an impressive .327/.416/.598 slash line. He blasted 15 homers, 21 doubles, and a triple in less than half a season, with identical 11.3% strikeout and walk rates.
Scouts have known his name since he was 22 years old. Okamoto has hit 274 home runs in 1,039 Central League games, averaging one every 16.2 plate appearances across eight seasons. His numbers compare favorably to Shohei Ohtani and Seiya Suzuki during their NPB careers.
Skeptics point out that
BETTING WITH BARTON
BY TOM BARTON
The more the news broke, the wilder the story became. That’s what happened this week when the federal government began arresting NBA players and coaches involved in a gambling investigation.
Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups—who was elected to the NBA Hall of Fame last year—and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were arrested as part of an FBI sports-gambling and illegal underground poker probe. In addition to those two former Cleveland Cavaliers player and assistant coach Damon Jones was also arrested. The arrests are linked to two separate cases: one involving sports gambling, and the other an illegal poker operation. Rozier was named in the sports gambling indictment, Billups in the poker operation, which involved several organized crime families. Jones is one of three defendants named in both cases.
The sports gambling world was rocked by the news, but it didn’t seem to shock many. Professionals across the sports betting industry weighed in
Okamoto struggled against high-velocity fastballs, while others believe that could be due
to limited exposure. Where he’s drafted—and how fantasy managers view him—remains
to be seen, but he’s a gamble many will consider this offseason.
The NBA and Mafia ties?
on social media and in interviews, and few appeared surprised by the allegations. In fact, videos have surfaced of the alleged games involving Rozier, and the video evidence is described as egregious.
For most insiders, this is just the beginning, with many expecting additional layers to the story. The FBI has already contacted the league as their net widens to determine what officials knew—or could have done. The NBA conducted its own investigation into similar allegations last year and found nothing.
The second concern centers on the illegal poker ring. FBI reports have linked the operation to the mafia, with claims that “rigged” games used devices such as sunglasses capable of seeing through cards. Billups allegedly lured high-stakes players to these games, among other charges.
This two-part investigation focuses on gambling as a whole—not just sports betting—and appears to be only the tip of the iceberg.
Alleged gambling game.
@yakyucosmo | X
Kazuma Okamoto and Munetaka Murakami.
Grok
By The South Shore Press
William Floyd High School boys’ varsity soccer head coach Paul Paniccia recently celebrated his 100th career victory, an impressive milestone that reflects more than a decade of commitment, perseverance, and leadership. The win came during a 3-1 road triumph over North Babylon, featuring an explosive first-half hat trick by senior Derlis Aguilar. Junior Christian Jones, a 2025 Newsday Top 100 selection, contributed two assists, while senior goalkeepers Myles Von Brookand Kevin Ramos combined for nine crucial saves to secure the team’s historic win and extend a season filled with determination and pride.
WF soccer coach Paniccia marks career milestone with 100th victory
Athletic Director Brian Babst praised Paniccia’s influence on the district’s athletic community. “Coach Paniccia has been the bedrock of the boys’ varsity soccer program since he took over in 2012,” Babst said. “Through tireless dedication, teamwork, and mentorship, he has built one of the most respected programs in Suffolk County, developing student-athletes who excel on and off the field.”
Since assuming leadership in 2012, Paniccia has guided William Floyd to ten consecutive playoff appearances, ending a 24-year drought. Under his direction, the Colonials twice reached the Section XI semifinals, including a 10-4-3 season in 2019. Assistant coach Des -
mond Megna, a former player from the 1992 playoff team and also a 100-win lacrosse coach, praised Paniccia’s relentless work ethic. “Paul’s passion completely reshaped the culture,” Megna said. “He inspired belief, created opportunity, and reminded everyone what pride in this program means.”
Reflecting on his journey, Paniccia recalled beginning with only 14 players trying out. “We started small, but we dreamed big,” he said. “One hundred wins later, the belief remains.”
Now serving as Dean of Students and Leveled Literacy Interventionist at Tangier Smith Elementary School, Paniccia expressed gratitude
to assistants Tony Guma, Mike Podstupka, Megna, and his sons Sebastian (’19) and Darius
(’23). “Sharing this milestone with them made it truly unforgettable.”
NY Knicks send cease-and-desist to Mamdani
By Tom Barton
The New York Knicks basketball team has sent a ceaseand-desist letter to Zohran Mamdani, the leading candidate in the New York City mayoral race, over his use of a logo resembling the team’s trademark in campaign materials and social media posts. Mamdani had posted the logo on his Instagram account with the caption, “This is our year. This is our time. #NewYorkForever.” The post, which tagged Madison Square Garden—the Knicks’ home arena—has since been deleted. During New York’s season opener, the Democratic candidate also aired an advertisement featuring the team’s signature orange and blue logo, but with the word
“Knicks” replaced by “Zohran.”
A spokesperson for the Knicks told the New York
Post, “The New York Knicks have sent NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani a cease-and-desist letter for using the Knicks logo to promote his candidacy. The Knicks want to make it clear that we do not endorse Mr. Mamdani for Mayor, and we object to his use of our copyrighted logo. We will pursue all legal remedies to enforce our rights.”
Mamdani, who currently serves as a New York State Assembly member representing Queens, is considered the favorite in the upcoming mayoral election. However, team owner James Dolan, a billionaire businessman and executive chairman of Madison Square Garden Sports,
Sayville stays perfect behind Coan
has not publicly endorsed any candidate in the race.
While Mamdani has not yet commented on the cease-anddesist order, the controversy has drawn significant media attention, with legal experts suggesting that the Knicks have a strong case due to trademark protection laws governing commercial and political use of intellectual property.
New Yorkers seem torn on the NYC Mayoral race as Cuomo and Mamdani are in a heated political battle, but many took to social media to show their frustrations with the mayoral candidate trying to represent their hometown basketball team.
By Tom Barton
The Sayville football team had a scare this week, but when all was said and done, they remained undefeated and improved their season record to a perfect 7-0.
Quarterback Patrick Coan led the way in the 28-14 win over East Hampton. Coan needed just 12 completions to throw for over 200 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a rushing score, capping off an impressive all-around performance.
His main target, receiver Luke Neugebauer, had a huge day with eight receptions for nearly 200 yards and two touchdowns.
Sayville’s offense spread the
ball around effectively as well.
Jake Arato hauled in a deep 60yard pass, while Colin Darling caught another touchdown strike. On the ground, Timmy Holahan turned in a workhorse effort, rushing for over 100 yards while chewing up the clock and consistently moving the chains.
With the win, Sayville has now captured seven straight victories in a variety of ways.
The Golden Flashes have scored over 40 points in four different games, including twice putting up 56. Their season high came in a dominant 62-point outburst against Hauppauge.
Just as impressive has been Sayville’s defense, which has been rock-solid throughout
the year. The unit has held five of its seven opponents to two touchdowns or fewer, combining strong tackling with disciplined coverage.
As the regular season nears its close, Sayville looks every bit the powerhouse they were projected to be at the start of the year. The offense is balanced, the defense is disciplined, and the team’s confidence continues to grow each week.
Sayville will now look to finish the regular season with an unblemished record as they hit the road for their season finale against West Islip next week. A win there would send them into the playoffs as the top seed and the clear team to beat.
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WFSD
WFSD Soccer Team
Patrick Coan
SPORTS
By Tom Barton
The Mount Sinai Mustangs shocked the Suffolk football world this weekend when they defeated perennial favorites Bayport-Blue Point.
The Mustangs secured the 16-13 victory on the leg of kicker Alexander Bottomley. Bottomley trotted onto the field as time expired and drilled a 22-yard game-winning field goal as the clock hit zero, sending Mount Sinai players and fans into celebration.
With the win, the Mustangs improved their record to 5-2, while the loss dropped the Phantoms to the same mark after suffering their second straight defeat.
While Bottomley was the
By Tom Barton
Rocky Point quarterback
Peyton Reisinger put the Eagles on his back and led them to a dramatic victory this week as Rocky Point defeated Eastport-South Manor 35-32 in one of the most thrilling games of the Suffolk County season.
The Eagles and Sharks needed more than regulation time allowed to settle the contest, battling through two overtimes in a back-and-forth showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Mustangs stun Phantoms with last second field goal
hero of the day, he wasn’t the only standout performer for the Mustangs. Quarterback
Max Sorrentino tied the game with a one-yard touchdown plunge late in the third quarter. He also completed 13 of 15 passes for 225 yards, showcasing excellent efficiency through the air.
The offensive highlight came on a 70-yard touchdown strike to Nicholas Vaccaro. Vaccaro made only two catches on the day but made the most of his limited opportunities.
Dontae Spadaro led the way with three receptions for 80 yards and added nearly 50 yards on the ground. His biggest contribution, however, came on special teams when he blocked an extra point that proved cru -
cial in the final outcome.
Sorrentino spread the ball around all afternoon. Daniel Paolella caught five passes for 50 yards, Alex Campanelli and Ethan Arita each made one grab, and Jackson Rannazzisi hauled in two receptions.
Mount Sinai will look to finish its regular season strong next week when it faces Hampton Bays before closing out the schedule against Shoreham-Wading River. With the way this team is playing, the Mustangs are proving that they belong among Suffolk’s elite and could be a serious contender once the postseason begins.
The Phantoms take on Glenn at home as they try to end their losing streak.
Reisinger does it all for Rocky Point
Both teams exchanged touchdowns early, ending the first quarter tied at seven, and giving us a glimpse of the day ahead. The scoring continued in the second, and
Eastport-South Manor went into halftime holding a 14-13 lead. Heading into the fourth
quarter, the Sharks extended their advantage with another touchdown, going up by eight.
That’s when the Eagles mounted their comeback. The defense tightened, shutting down the Sharks’ offense, and Reisinger led a late drive capped by a touchdown and a clutch two-point conversion to tie the game and send it to overtime.
In the first overtime, both teams scored touchdowns and converted their extra points, forcing a second extra period.
The Sharks managed only a field goal on their possession, opening the door for Reisinger and the Eagles. On a gutsy quarterback keeper, Reisinger powered in from six yards out
for the game-winning score, sealing the 35-32 classic.
Reisinger finished the game with 175 passing yards, two touchdown throws, and nearly 100 rushing yards — including the deciding score in double overtime.
Wide receiver Ryan Espinal was outstanding, catching five passes and both of Reisinger’s touchdown throws, including the tying 11-yard touchdown and two-point conversion in the fourth quarter.
With the victory, Rocky Point improved its record and will now look to close out the regular season strong when it takes on East Hampton this weekend.
Longwood junior shines on national stage
By Tom Barton
Longwood High School junior
Anthony LaGala-Ryan shined brightly on the national stage this past week, showcasing his exceptional talent and hard work.
This year’s 2025 Section XI champion delivered one of the most impressive performances of his wrestling career, earning a 6th-place finish at the Super 32 Wrestling Challenge — one of the most prestigious and competitive high school wrestling tournaments in the country. The event attracts the nation’s top athletes, making LaGala-Ryan’s showing even more remarkable, and putting all of Suffolk County, and New York State on notice. Entering the tournament unseeded, LaGala-Ryan battled
through a challenging bracket, advancing all the way to the semifinals before suffering his first loss. He finished the weekend with a stellar 6-2 record, earning victories over multiple elite opponents, including state champions from Iowa, North Dakota, Maryland, and Michigan, as well as a Pennsylvania state runner-up. His determination, conditioning, and technical precision were on full display throughout the tournament, further establishing him as one of New York State’s premier wrestlers heading into the 2025 season. Coaches and supporters praised his composure under pressure and relentless drive to improve.
The 5’4” 120-pound Middle Island native has been training intensely throughout the offseason
at KD Training Center, where he continues to refine his technique and strengthen both physically and mentally for the upcoming season. His dedication to his craft has inspired teammates and elevated the Longwood wrestling program’s visibility on the state and national levels. Last year he won the Section XI championship, placing third in the state and earning his third All-State honor.
In recognition of his performance, Longwood celebrated his achievement on Facebook, posting, “We’re expecting another outstanding season from him. Incredible work, Anthony!” With his continued growth, discipline, and competitive spirit, Anthony LaGala-Ryan looks poised to make an even deeper run this winter.
Tom Barton
Rocky Point
Mount Sinai Football | Facebook
Mustangs kick the game winner.
Longwood Central School District | Facebook
Anthony LaGala-Ryan
By LocalLabs News Service
The Smithtown High School boys’ cross-country team has once again proven its dominance, capturing its ninth consecutive League I championship this season.
The remarkable streak continues a legacy of excellence that has come to define the Bulls program. Not only have they secured a mind-boggling nine straight league titles, but the team has also extended its winning streak to an incredible 56 consecutive victories — a run of consistency and success that few programs in Suffolk County history can match.
This unprecedented stretch of dominance dates all the way back to the fall season of 2016, when
Smithtown cross country extends their championship streak
the Bulls began their current run. Since then, season after season, the team has refused to relinquish its position atop the league standings, compiling an unmatched record of nine straight undefeated campaigns.
The Bulls’ success is the result of hard work, discipline, and a strong sense of unity among runners from both Smithtown East and Smithtown West. The two schools combine their top distance athletes to form one powerhouse program that has become a model of excellence in Long Island cross-country competition.
Under the leadership of longtime head coach Peter Shieck, the Bulls have built a culture centered on accountability, teamwork, and relentless preparation.
Shieck’s coaching philosophy emphasizes both individual improvement and team cohesion — a balance that has helped the Bulls stay focused and hungry despite years of dominance.
The team has had contributions from everyone, but their standouts are Andrew Collons and Connor Serper from Smithtown West and Jack Moylan from Smithtown East.
The Smithtown runners continue to train with their sights set on even bigger goals, including postseason meets and county titles. With talent, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the Bulls show no signs of slowing down as they look to extend their historic winning streak well into the future.
Donnie finally gets to the World Series
Don Mattingly
@GinaMuscato | X
By Tom Barton
For New York Yankees fans, this World Series stings more than most. Being a Yankees fan means that any time the pinstripes aren’t playing for a championship, it leaves a bitter taste — but this one feels a little bit worse.
With the Dodgers and Blue Jays meeting in the Fall Classic, New Yorkers are forced to choose their poison. Either the Dodgers win another title, further separating themselves from the rest of baseball while Yankees fans watch a team celebrating with players New York missed out on — or the division rival Blue Jays lift the
trophy, the same team that dethroned the Yankees for the division, knocked them out of the playoffs, and then ran their mouths about it.
There is one silver lining for Yankees fans, though — Don Mattingly will finally experience what it’s like to reach the World Series. Mattingly was the rock of the Yankees throughout the 1980s and into the mid-1990s, and his story remains one of the most bittersweet in franchise history.
Donnie Baseball was a beacon of hope on some bad Yankees teams, the clear best player in baseball during the mid-’80s. But as his back injuries worsened, he continued trying to will the team
to a championship. In 1994, the Yankees looked poised to win it all before the players’ strike ended the season. Then, in 1995, they were eliminated by Seattle after a controversial playoff format. Still, the Hitman shined that postseason, earning one of the loudest ovations ever heard in Yankee Stadium after his memorable home run.
He retired the following year, just before the Yankees began their dynasty. After years as a manager and coach, the now–Blue Jays bench coach will finally reach his first World Series — a small sign of hope in an otherwise gloomy October for Yankees fans.
Jets honor Suffolk heroes at First Responders Appreciation Day
By Robert Chartuk
Three Suffolk County law enforcement officers who saved a man’s life this fall will help carry a giant American flag at MetLife Stadium during the New York Jets’ annual First Responders Appreciation Day.
Correction Officers Sean Higgins and Travis Yacovone, along with Deputy Sheriff Dylan Hever, will join about 130 other first responders from across Long Island and the New York metropolitan area in unfurling the 150-by-100-foot flag during the National Anthem. The Jets will also honor roughly 500 first responders and their families attending the November 30 game against the Atlanta Falcons.
The trio was recognized after saving Lenny Muzzillo, who collapsed during the Town of Brookhaven’s Senior Picnic on September 3. The officers performed CPR for more than seven minutes and used a defibrillator to restore his pulse. Muzzillo later underwent quadruple-bypass surgery and returned home just ten days later.
Sheriff Errol Toulon surprised the officers with the Jets invitation during what they believed was a training session. The announcement came from Steven Castleton, the team’s Military and First Responder Liaison.
“People usually do CPR for a few minutes before giving up,” Castleton said. “But these guys
did it for more than seven minutes. They never gave up. Their quick thinking and professionalism saved a life.”
“I’m a big Jets fan,” Higgins said. “I’m kind of speechless right now.”
“Words can’t describe how I feel about this,” Hever added. “It will be an honor to hold the flag for our country. We do our job because we love doing it.”
“They were in the right place at the right time and acted quickly to save his life,” Sheriff Toulon said. “I’m glad he’s okay.”
The Jets will also host their Salute to Service military-appreciation game on November 9 against Cleveland, honoring active-duty members, veterans, and Gold Star families.
Smithtown Central School District | Facebook
Smithtown Cross Country Team
Robert Chartuk
From left are Dylan Hever, Steven Castleton, Sean Higgins, Sheriff Toulon, and Travis Yacovone.
By Tom Barton
There are offensive performances, and then there are otherworldly offensive performances — and that’s exactly what Miller Place delivered this past weekend behind their field general.
Standout quarterback Shane Kiernan has already established himself as one of the best signal-callers on Long Island, but this outing put everyone on notice that he deserves consideration as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.
Kiernan turned in a jaw-dropping stat line, completing 27 of 34 passes for close to 430 yards through the air. If the yardage alone wasn’t impressive enough, he also threw seven
Panthers’ standout quarterback Kiernan lights it up
touchdown passes, leading visiting Miller Place to a 65-48 victory over Kings Park. That win improved Miller Place’s season record to 5-1, and the Panthers have now scored 103 points in their last two games, both coming on the road.
Kiernan didn’t stop there. In one of the most impressive all-around performances, you’ll ever see on a football field, he also rushed for 90 yards, making him nearly impossible to contain.
A.J. Rudolph was his favorite target on the day, hauling in 10 receptions for over 200 yards and three touchdowns. Brendan Cannon wasn’t far behind, catching eight passes for 120 yards and matching Rudolph
with three scores of his own.
The Miller Place ground game was also dominant, as Camryn Hardy ran for just under 200 yards and added two touchdowns, giving the offense remarkable balance.
In the losing effort, Kings Park quarterback Brandon Shapiro was outstanding, throwing for 457 yards and five touchdowns while adding 85 rushing yards and another score. His performance set school records for both passing yards (457) and total offense (542) in a single game.
Kiernan and Miller Place now return home to face Port Jefferson, whose defense has allowed 40 or more points in all but one game this season.
Number one in the nation for Bellport’s best
By Tom Barton
Bellport High School has always known that it was home to one of the most gifted athletes ever to walk its halls — but now, it’s official: they have the best high school wrestler in the entire country.
This past week, Camryn Howard earned the title of No. 1 high school wrestler in the nation in the 157-pound weight class. That distinction came after a thrilling, last-minute victory over the nation’s top-ranked competitor at FloWrestling’s “Who’s Number One” event, held at Xtream Arena in Coralville, Iowa.
Howard’s win marks the
By Tom Barton
latest milestone in what has already been an extraordinary wrestling career. A standout
both locally and nationally, Howard previously made school history by becoming
Bellport High School’s first varsity wrestler to capture a national title at the prestigious Fargo National Championships. Howard didn’t just win; he absolutely dominated in his victory winning 7-0 while earning the 16U 157 lb Fargo National Title.
Among his long list of personal achievements, Howard has earned double gold medals at the Pan Am World Championship in the U16 division, is a three-time Suffolk County champion and New York State champion, holds three All-State titles, has collected numerous All-American honors, and maintains the Suffolk County record for the fastest pin — a testament to both his
strength and technical skill.
In recognition of his incredible success, the South Country Central School District released a statement on social media, saying:
“The South Country School District extends its congratulations to Howard on this impressive win.”
Howard’s rise to the top of the national rankings not only cements his legacy as one of Bellport’s all-time greats but also serves as an inspiration for young athletes across Long Island. With his unmatched drive, focus, and talent, Camryn Howard has become a shining example of what dedication and hard work can achieve.
Floyd wins D-1 championship rematch
This past weekend featured a rematch of last year’s Division I Suffolk County Championship game, and once again, William Floyd stood tall when all was said and done.
The Colonials not only won the rematch, but they continued their dominant season, extending their season long winning streak to six games and improving their record to a perfect 6-0 on the year. William Floyd defeated the top-seeded Ward Melville Patriots in a thrilling 28-21 victory.
It must have felt like déjà vu all over again for the Patriots, as the Colonials also defeated Ward Melville in the 2024
Suffolk Championship last November.
As he did last season, and in that game, star running back Jaquan Thomas once again led the way, rushing for over 200 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Averaging nearly 10 yards per carry, Thomas was unstoppable on offense. He also made an impact on the defensive side of the ball, adding eight tackles, solidifying his case as one of the top two-way players on Long Island.
The William Floyd defense was equally impressive, completely shutting down Ward Melville’s rushing attack and forcing two interceptions. Both Divine Bennett and Evan Commodore came up with key turnovers, making life difficult
for the Patriots’ offense all afternoon.
Despite the loss, Ward Melville’s Hudson Philbrick put up strong numbers, throwing for 258 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding a rushing score. However, his two interceptions proved costly in a game that marked the Patriots’ lowest scoring output of the season. With the defeat, Ward Melville fell to 5-1 on the year.
As the regular season winds down, many Suffolk football fans are already buzzing about the potential for a third straight championship showdown between these two powerhouses. If the past two meetings are any indication, that rematch could be another classic.
cam_howard12 | Instagram
Camryn Howard
@shane_kiernan | X
Shane Kiernan
Floyd football
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