The South Shore Press has launched an ambitious new community initiative aimed at spreading goodwill across Suffolk County: a “Random Acts of Kindness” contest offering more than $20,000 in prizes, including a $10,000 grand prize, to reward generosity, compassion, and creativity.
Throughout November, Suffolk County residents are encouraged to perform genuine acts of kindness for strangers and share their stories with the newspaper using the hashtag #SuffolkKindness or by emailing news@southshorepress. com.
Entries should remain anonymous and be unrelated to everyday business activities. Submissions can include
a short description, photo, or video. Winners will be chosen in December based on the authenticity and impact of their actions.
“This idea started as a family project,” said John Thaler, owner of the South Shore Press, who was inspired by a church sermon on gratitude and service. “My priest challenged us to do random acts of kindness at home. I thought, why not challenge all of Suffolk County to do the same?”
Thaler hopes the contest will ignite what he calls an “upward spiral of kindness.”
“We’ve all seen the movie Pay It Forward,” he said. “One good deed inspires another and another. Imagine thousands of people across Suffolk Coun -
Win big bucks just for being kind
ty engaging in kind acts for strangers — that ripple effect could change our culture.”
Prizes include $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second, $2,500 for third, and multiple $100 honorable mentions.
But beyond the money, Thaler sees the contest as a social experiment. “Social media has fueled hostility and cynicism,” he said. “If negativity can spiral downward, kindness can spiral upward. Love and empathy can be contagious.”
Submissions are due by November 30, 2025, with winners announced in December in The South Shore Press. “If we can get even a few thousand people doing kind acts for strangers,” Thaler said, “that’s not just a contest, it’s a movement.”
Brookhaven gears up for holiday food and toy drives
By Deborah Williams
It’s that time of year when we turn our thoughts toward the holidays. The mailbox is full of requests for donations, and Brookhaven hopes you will be generous right here at home.
Two events are coming up – The Car Show Food and Toy Drive and the JVC Broadcasting Toy Drive.
All Suffolk Car Clubs is sponsoring the Car Show Food and Toy Drive to help needy Long Islanders have a happy holiday.
Club members will be displaying their cars in the south parking lot of Brookhaven Town Hall to raise donations for families in need through the Brookhaven Youth Bureau’s Interface Program. Attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food items to contribute to the Thanksgiving Food Drive and new, unwrapped toys for children to open during the holiday season.
Cash donations are also accepted.
When: Sunday, November 12, 2023 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: Brookhaven Town Hall, 1
Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738
There will be a silent auction, raffles, live music and more. For additional
information contact Maxine at 516658-1977.
Up next is the Town Holiday Toy Drive.
On December 13, all the JVC Broadcasting radio stations will broadcast live from Brookhaven Town Hall to promote the Town’s Toy Drive. All the popular personalities from My Country 96.1, LI News Radio 103.9, LaFiesta 98.5, Big 98.1; En Vivo 93.3 FM / 1440 AM and Party 105.3.
Date and Time: Friday, December 13, 2024, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Location: Brookhaven Town Hall., 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville
Those who stop by are asked to donate a new, unwrapped toy to help bring joy to a child of a family in need as they open a gift during the holiday season. Last year, residents donated thousands of toys, ranging from board games and dolls to toy trucks and bicycles.
Town of Brookhaven
The Town of Brookhaven is set to hold two toy drive events for those in need.
Stefan Mychajliw
Stefan Mychajliw, South Shore Press News Director
By Michael J. Reistetter
“Ramblers — let’s get ramblin’,” hundreds of birdwatchers across the state, and even beyond, cried with glee as they flocked into their cars and set out for eastern Long Island in a certified fanatical frenzy.
As reported by CBS, birders traveled from far and wide to the Vineyards Golf and Country Club in Riverhead starting Thursday, October 23rd, to feast their eyes on the “common cuckoo.” The rare visitor was first spotted by Roy William Gardner while he was riding a golf cart between holes.
Now, the Europe-origi -
Birdwatchers unite for rare cuckoo in Riverhead
nated, mostly African, wintertime-resigned cuckoo has been recorded for just the fourth time in the continental United States.
Some avid birders have explained that such a find is known as a “lifer,” meaning a species one might go their whole lifetime without seeing live and in person. “This is an amazing find,” one birder told CBS.
Online communities like “Facebook’s New York State Rare Bird Alert” have tracked more than 200 reported sightings of the coveted, not-socommon cuckoo in the week since the initial discovery.
Just weeks after the Ryder Cup lit up Nassau, tour -
ists now pouring into the Brookhaven region of Suffolk County have brought renewed energy to local businesses — a welcome boost celebrated by civic and commercial leaders alike.
Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio said in a statement to The South Shore Press: “The unexpected arrival of this rare cuckoo in Riverhead has become a wonderful moment for our community. What began as a single bird sighting has blossomed into a celebration of our natural heritage, drawing visitors from near and far who are not just here to catch a glimpse of a bird but to experience the beauty and hospitality of our region.”
Per Giglio, local farms, cafés, outfitters, and tour operators have welcomed enthusiasts “with open arms,” creating an energy “that has reminded us of the value of our scenic landscapes and small-business backbone.”
“As we continue to promote responsible ecotourism respecting private land,” she adds, “protecting wildlife and supporting our local economy, this serendipitous event underscores that when we embrace visitors and celebrate what makes our corner of Long Island unique, everyone benefits: the visitor sees something extraordinary, and our community shines even brighter.”
Law cracking down on dishonest Suffolk County contractors signed
By Deborah Williams
“Contractors beware! Suffolk County is committed to protecting our residents and is strengthening oversight and penalties against unscrupulous contractors. There is no place in our county for those who take advantage of consumers and deceive others for their own financial gain,” said County Executive Ed Romaine.
Legislator Jim Mazzarella joined Romaine in Hauppauge as his bill was signed into law, strengthening enforcement against unscrupulous contractors and bolstering consumer protections across the County.
“I joined County Executive Ed Romaine and my colleagues in government as we official-
ly signed IR 1543-2025 into law — legislation I authored to strengthen enforcement against unscrupulous county-licensed professionals and enhance consumer protections across Suffolk County,” said Mazzarella.
Mazzarella said his bill was inspired by a personal story “when a close friend’s father was victimized by a deceitful contractor. No family should ever have to go through that kind of betrayal.”
While most professionals operate with honesty and integrity, this law ensures that bad actors can no longer hide behind loopholes or shell companies.
“Suffolk County will not tolerate dishonest business practices. This law puts consumers first and sends a clear message — if
you exploit residents or operate unethically, you will face serious consequences,” said Mazzarella. https://www.scnylegisla-
is to strengthen legislation regarding occupations licensed and regulated by Suffolk County to further protect Suffolk County consumers by amending the procedure for applying for a license pursuant to Chapter 563. The law requires more transparency in license applications; strengthens background checks for licensees; imposes tougher penalties for repeat offenders; and expands the Registry of Unscrupulous County-Licensed Professionals to cover all county-licensed trades.
If you feel like you have been a victim of an unlicensed contractor or deceptive practices, please contact the Suffolk County Department of Consumer Affairs to file a claim at 631-853-4600.
Veterans Day Parade to honor Grand Marshal Ina Casali
By Robert Chartuk
The East Moriches community will line Main Street on Saturday, November 9th for its annual Veterans Day Parade — a popular event that celebrates the courage and sacrifice of all who served in America’s armed forces.
This year’s Grand Marshal, U.S. Navy veteran Ina Casali, will lead the procession to help honor all who served and defended the freedoms Americans enjoy. Veterans Day traces its roots to the end of World War I, when the guns fell silent on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was established to commemorate peace and to honor those who fought in “the war to end all wars.” In 1954, following World War II and the Korean conflict, Congress renamed it Veterans Day to recognize veterans of all eras.
“Veterans Day isn’t about glorifying
war,” said parade organizer Miriam Gillies. “It’s about honoring service — the
courage, duty, and selflessness of men and women who answered their coun-
try’s call.”
The parade, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, will feature the Center Moriches High School Band, Scout troops, fire departments, civic organizations, and elected officials. The event begins with a ceremony at 2 p.m. at the Eagle Monument on Main Street and concludes at Soldiers and Sailors Park.
Grand Marshal Casali, a Vietnam-era Navy veteran and longtime educator, has dedicated decades to helping fellow service members and their families. She embodies the parade’s theme of service and remembrance, said organizer Victoria Hedberg “We are honored to have this esteemed veteran lead the parade,” the chamber volunteer said.
Since its founding in 2018, the East Moriches Veterans Day Parade has grown each year, uniting the community in gratitude for those who served — and reminding all that freedom is never free.
Suffolk County Executive Office
New law regarding unscrupulous contractors is signed.
Michael Gage/Facebook/NYS Rare Bird Alert & Town of Brookhaven
Mark Ruffalo’s bird-watching detective character in HBO’s “Task” would be left speechless by this cuckoo.
Robert Chartuk
Parade organizer Miriam Gillies, left, with Grand Marshal Ina Casali and Victoria Hedberg.
LOCAL South Shore Press salutes Veteran Hector Sanchez
By Robert Chartuk
When Hector Sanchez left Manhattan’s 98th Street for Fort Gordon, Georgia, in 1966, he was a 19-year-old “young punk,” as he puts it, fresh out of high school and unsure of the world ahead. What followed was a lifetime of service — to his country, his community, and his fellow veterans.
Drafted at first but eager to set his own course, Sanchez enlisted in the U.S. Army, trained in the swamps of Fort Polk, Louisiana, and volunteered for one of the most dangerous jobs in Vietnam — helicopter door gunner with
the First Air Cavalry Division. Stationed in the Central Highlands and Mekong Delta, he flew into combat zones rescuing wounded soldiers, supporting ground troops, and sometimes getting shot down himself.
“We went down twice,” he recalled. “You don’t think about it — you just do your job.” His bravery earned him two Bronze Stars, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and other honors. “It made a man out of me,” he said. “It taught me to look out for others before myself.”
After four years in the Army, including 18 months in Vietnam, Sanchez returned home and built a career as
an audio-visual engineer for Merrill Lynch and other Wall Street firms. On September 11, 2001, he witnessed the attacks from across the street, filming both planes striking the Twin Towers. “It was horrible,” he said. “The dust, the people, the chaos — I’ll never forget it.”
Now 77 and living in Shirley since 1970, Sanchez volunteers at VFW Post 414 in Center Moriches, selling poppies and helping raise thousands for veterans and local charities. Despite heart failure, diabetes, and lung damage from Agent Orange and Ground Zero, he keeps giving back. “Some days I wake up 100 percent, other days only ten,” he said. “But you do the best you can.”
Sheriff Toulon unveils new Domestic Violence Bureau office
By Michael J. Reistetter
Joined by the family of Kathy Bishop on the morning of Wednesday, October 29th, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. announced the opening of his Domestic Violence Bureau’s new office space.
The press conference was held at approximately 11 a.m., and took place in the District Court Complex on Carleton Avenue in Central Islip, where the office is also now located. The opening follows substantial county-led renovations made to accommodate a growing staff and caseload.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony also coincided with the conclusion of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
According to the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, the Domestic Violence Bureau is responsible for serving Orders of Protection and Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO), commonly referred to as the “Red Flag” law.
In 2025 alone, the Bureau has served close to 5,000 Orders of Protection and more than 1,800 ERPOs.
In 2024, Sheriff Toulon announced an expansion in both staffing and office space to meet the increased workload.
Today, Suffolk County leads the state in the issuance of successful ERPOs.
“These Deputies perform an incredibly dangerous job, often entering homes where weapons may be present and situations can quickly become volatile
and unpredictable,” said Sheriff Toulon.
“I’m proud of the courage and dedication they show every day to keep our residents safe. I’m especially proud that we can dedicate this space in memory of Kathy Bishop, keeping her legacy alive by protecting even more victims of Domestic Violence.”
Bishop’s tragic murder served as the catalyst for the Sheriff’s Office to begin serving Orders of Protection in September 1992. Prior to that, Suffolk residents were responsible for serving their own.
Bishop—maiden name Germaine—was denied an order of protection against her husband, who ultimately killed her days later in July 1992.
Never again, says this latest action by local law enforcement.
By Deborah Williams
The $160 million Carriage House development, nearly nine years in the making, will bring 262 new apartments to West Main Street in the Village of Patchogue—just steps from the train station and across from Blue Point Brewing Co. The project includes 53 affordable, income-restricted units, expanding housing opportunities while supporting continued growth in one of Long Island’s most vibrant downtowns.
In addition to new housing, the project will create a public riverwalk, a community park, and new office space for the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce, transforming a once underutilized area into a dynamic community hub for residents and visitors alike.
Led by Nord Development Group and ACRE, with support from an $8 million Long Island Investment Fund award, the development will transform the property at 214 West Main Street into a vibrant residential and commercial destination. Of the afford-
able units, three will be designated for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and three for veterans, ensuring inclusivity across the community.
Governor Kathy Hochul said, “The Carriage House represents exactly the kind of forward-looking investment that is keeping Long Island strong and growing.”
Two five-story buildings totaling 455,000 square feet will be bisected by the Patchogue River and connected by a new public riverwalk. The project will feature a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments; ground-floor retail and community office space; more than 400 structured parking spaces; a bike-share; and an electric shuttle linking residents to the Patchogue LIRR Station. The eastern building, with 108 units, will open in spring 2027, followed by the western building, with 154 units, in fall 2027.
The project will create more than 310 construction jobs and five permanent positions, contributing to Patchogue’s continued economic and cultural revitalization.
Robert Chartuk
Army Veteran Hector Sanchez
Office of Governor Kathy Hochul Carriage House project bringing 262 new homes to Patchogue.
Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office
With a special ribbon-cutting, Sheriff Toulon makes it official.
LOCAL
By Joe Exotic the Tiger King
Opinion: George Santos, You Know the Hell I’ve Lived
Joe Exotic “The Tiger King” Writes to Santos and the SSP
By Joseph Maldonado (#26154017)
George Santos, congratulations on getting back to the free world. Before you went to prison, we spoke, and maybe I seemed like just another inmate complaining about being treated less than human. Now that you’ve had a taste of what that feels like, I ask you to see me not as a meme or TV caricature, but as a man—and to be my voice.
I’ve never claimed perfection. I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve also spent my life trying to help others. My crime, if any, was talking too much. Things I said on my podcast may not have aged well, but I believed in freedom of speech. Somewhere along the way, that freedom got lost in translation—and I ended up paying for it.
I’ve served eight years of a 22-year sentence—longer than a man who plotted to kill a Supreme Court justice. Government witnesses admitted they lied, even confessed on national television to plotting against me. Yet they walk free while I sit here with cancer and a failing immune system.
Yes, I euthanized five tigers—by veterinary protocol, under USDA guidance. No one else in America has been prosecuted for that. My zoo was
federally licensed, yet I was targeted by agencies that never once checked on me until it was time to shut me down.
I’ve lost my parents, my home, and nearly my health. All that remains is my husband, Jorge, struggling on the outside. My dream now is simple: a second chance—to advocate for animals, children, and the voiceless.
George, you and I both know the hell of solitary confinement. Let’s turn that suffering into something good. Help me bring humanity back to justice.
Sincerely, Joseph Maldonado aka Joe Exotic pardonjoeexotic.com
Zombie home battle continues across Brookhaven
By Robert Chartuk
Brookhaven Town’s ongoing effort to remove derelict “zombie homes” has made neighborhoods safer, cleaner, and more valuable, officials say. Hundreds of abandoned, decaying houses have been demolished under the town’s program to eliminate unsafe and blighted properties.
Councilman Mike Loguercio said the initiative has had a major impact across communities across Brookhaven. “These properties are a tremendous eyesore and a danger because of the risk of fire, trespassers, and animals,” he said. “Once we knock them down, residents are always thankful because we’ve cleaned up the area and protected their property values.”
A property qualifies as a zombie home when it is vacant and deemed structurally unsafe by an independent engineer. The town then holds a public hearing, and if the structure is condemned, the owner has 30 days to secure a building permit or demolish it themselves before the town steps in. Costs—typically around $30,000, depending on size and asbestos removal—are recouped through a tax lien on the property. Loguercio said most of the condemned homes are privately owned rather than bank-held foreclosures. “A lot of these owners just give up,”
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South Shore Press, LLC. is a proud member of the following community organizations: The Greater Mastic Beach Chamber of Commerce, The Rocky Point Sound Beach Chamber of Commerce, The Mastic/Shirley Chamber of Commerce, The Moriches Chamber of Commerce, The Bellport Chamber of Commerce, The Manorville Chamber of Commerce, The Medford Chamber of Commerce and The New York Press Association.
he said. “They can’t afford to fix the property, or it’s been sitting empty after tenants moved out.”
Councilman Neil Foley, who recently oversaw the demolition of a long-vacant house on Creighton Avenue in Lake Ronkonkoma, said such action is essential to maintaining community standards. “This property had been a long-standing eyesore in an otherwise wonderful neighborhood,” Foley said.
“Its removal is a positive step forward in keeping our community safe, clean, and beautiful.”
Town officials estimate that hundreds of zombie homes, more than 350 by the end of last year, including the dilapidated Sachem school building in Holbrook, have already been cleared, with more targeted for removal as Brookhaven continues restoring blighted properties to productive use.
Serving the Communities of The Village of Bellport, Brookhaven, Center Moriches, Centereach, Coram, East Moriches, East Patchogue, Eastport, East Shoreham, Farmingville, Gordon Heights, Lake Ronkonkoma, Manorville, Medford, Mastic, The Village of Mastic Beach, Middle Island, Miller Place, Moriches, Mount Sinai, North Bellport, The Village of Patchogue, Port Jefferson Station, The Village of Port Jefferson, Ridge, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Selden, Shirley, Shoreham, Smith Point, Sound Beach, Speonk, Terryville, Wading River, & Yaphank.
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Town of Brookhaven
Brookhaven Councilman Neil Foley watches the demolition of a zombie home in Lake Ronkonkoma.
LOCAL
By Deborah Williams
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced that Willie Hart, 61, of Yaphank, was found guilty of Murder in the Second Degree for murdering his girlfriend Candace Woodruff, 37, of Texas.
“The defendant behaved cowardly and callously when he took his girlfriend’s life,” said District Attorney Tierney. “I am relieved that the jury has held him responsible for his actions. I urge anyone who is in a relationship involving violence to call 911 or Suffolk County’s S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women Program at (631) 8538222.”
The evidence at trial estab-
Trucker found guilty of killing girlfriend in Patchogue
lished that Hart, a long-haul trucker, called police and claimed that he had discovered his girlfriend, Candace Woodruff, unresponsive on the floor of his tractor cab, which was parked near the Shore Motor Inn in Patchogue. When police arrived at the scene, they saw Woodruff on the ground in front of the tractor cab, not breathing.
Police and medical staff then observed injuries to Woodruff’s body including facial and neck abrasions, neck soft tissue hemorrhage, head and neck contusions, and minor contusions and abrasions to her extremities. Woodruff was transported to Long Island Community Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The Suffolk County Medical Examiner determined that Woodruff’s cause of death was asphyxia by neck compression.
Video showed that both parties got into the truck cab for approximately 35 minutes, during which time a struggle occurred.
After exiting the cab, casually walked back to the motel room, where he retrieved a bag, placed the bag in a car, and then returned to the trailer cab in a disheveled state. Hart did all of this before calling 911.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Eric S. Aboulafia and Sheetal Shetty of the Homicide Bureau, and Detectives Richard Jones and Michael Ronca of the Homicide Squad.
Blame it on the rain, Babe — overnight closures on Sunrise
By Michael J. Reistetter
Beware the tides from above, as Halloween-coded spookytime has seemingly arrived a day early this year.
Getting ahead of the forecasted floodgates of rainfall expected to sweep across Long Island as afternoon made way for evening on Thursday, October 30th, the New York State Department of Transportation implemented a series of overnight closures for safety reasons.
Motorists traveling westbound on Sunrise Highway (State Route 27) through the Town of Brookhaven were advised that Exit 59 to Exit 57 — Wading River Road to Yaphank Avenue and
For ongoing updates, visit the state Department of Transportation’s official website dot.ny.gov.
Horseblock Road, respectively — would be shut down temporarily. The closure, beginning at 9
p.m. and lasting until 5 a.m. the following morning, was put in place as part of proactive storm
response measures.
Drivers impacted by this type of shutdown should anticipate being detoured. In Thursday’s night’s case, they were redirected onto North Service Road to southbound Wading River Road for approximately a half mile, then to southbound Brookfield Avenue for about one mile, continuing onto westbound Moriches Bypass (Suffolk County Route 98).
From there, traffic would merge onto westbound Montauk Highway (Suffolk County Route 80) for roughly five miles before connecting to northbound Horseblock Road, leading back to accessible westbound Sunrise Highway.
Translated: when the roads are
Federal shutdown drowns out
By Deborah Williams
The media is filled with reports of SNAP shortfalls, air traffic controller issues, and the military not being paid. Something not getting much coverage is the fact that during the shutdown, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) expired which means policies can’t be issued or renewed until Democrats end the shutdown. With the anniversary of Hurricane Sandy this week, the lapse in the NFIP will affect Long Islanders. Every day that this shutdown drags on, more and more flood insurance policies are lapsing, and new policies cannot be issued. If another storm hits, those with lapsed policies will be left with
nothing and those who are covered may face delays on their claims.
The federal government has been shut down since October 1st as Senate Democrats refuse to pass a clean Continuing Resolution funding the government at the same levels as the Biden administration budget.
RNC Spokeswoman Kristen Cianci said, “Thirteen years after the devastation of Superstorm Sandy, thousands are being left unprotected from flood damage thanks to the shutdown Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen voted for. The memory of wrecked homes and flooded streets is still fresh for so many Long Islanders. Democrats must end this shutdown and stop playing with people’s
The year of Sandy, NFIP paid out 38,029 claims amounting to $2,863,565,150 across Nassau and Suffolk counties. An estimated 1,300 real estate closings per day require flood coverage in Special Flood Hazard Areas – closings that are not able to occur during a shutdown.
“As we mark the anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, it’s alarming that thousands of Long Islanders are at risk because of the Democrat’s Schumer Shutdown,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano. “Families and homeowners should not be left unprotected from flood damage. Democrats must act immediately to reopen the government and stop playing with people’s lives.”
this wet, expect the New York State Department of Transportation to have you covered.
According to the department, its mission is to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State.
“Lives are on the line,” they profess. “Slow down and move over for highway workers!”
As heavy rain looms and travel conditions deteriorate, officials continue urging caution on all state roadways.
For ongoing updates, visit the state Department of Transportation’s official website: dot.ny.gov.
flood insurance
NYSDOT
Office of Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney Long-haul trucker violently murdered his girlfriend outside a Patchogue motel.
National Weather Service
The National Flood Insurance Program is on hold until the federal shutdown is over.
SANTOS UNCENSORED
BY GEORGE SANTOS
It’s heartbreaking to watch a city you love fall apart because one man couldn’t leave his ego at the door. That’s what’s happening in New York City right now. Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, the red-beret-wearing radio personality, has somehow become the biggest reason radical socialist Zohran Mamdani is surging in the polls.
Sliwa’s continued presence in this race isn’t about saving the city. It’s about doing what he’s always done best—chasing cameras and pretending to be the hero. While he feeds his ego, he’s handing New York to the far left.
Anyone who knows city politics can see it. Consultants whisper in Sliwa’s ear that he has “momentum” and “unbeatable name recognition.” What they really mean is “keep paying us.” Every day he stays in, they get another paycheck. And Sliwa, ever the showman, buys it. His campaign is on life support. The only thing moving is the meter on his consultant bills. They’re milking the old Guardian Angel dry, stringing him along like a washed-up fighter
who still thinks he’s championship material. While he relives 1979, the far left is preparing to take City Hall. Mamdani, with ideas so extreme they’d make Joseph Stalin blush, is running nearly unopposed in the race that matters.
Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Andrew Cuomo.
Let me be blunt—I can’t stand the man. His arrogance, failed leadership, and disastrous handling of the pandemic left scars that will take years to heal. He ruled by fear, not competence. He shut down livelihoods, crushed small businesses, and treated New Yorkers like subjects instead of citizens.
But here’s the truth: Cuomo is the evil we know. And sometimes, in politics, that’s the only choice when the alternative is a socialist ideologue like Mamdani. Cuomo has a record and plenty of sins—but at least we know what kind of monster we’re dealing with. Mamdani is unknown chaos, the kind of radical who’d burn down the city to rebuild it in his own image.
Sliwa’s Ego Could Turn New York City Red With Socialist Ruin
So while I have zero love for Cuomo, I’d still rather hold my nose and back him than hand the city to Mamdani. Cuomo is the only man in this race with the political muscle, name recognition, and instincts to stop this socialist surge.
That’s what makes Sliwa’s stubbornness so infuriating. Instead of uniting behind a candidate who can win, he’s splitting the vote. His ego trip is handing Mamdani the keys to City Hall— and every New Yorker will pay the price.
Once upon a time, Sliwa was a hero—the guy in the subways who stood up when crime was everywhere. People looked to him for courage. But that was then. The man we see today isn’t guarding the city; he’s guarding his pride. And that pride is the gateway to chaos.
If Mamdani wins, New Yorkers better buckle up. We’ll see redistribution plans that drive investors to Florida, “Defund the Police” revived, and NYPD morale collapse. Sanctuary policies will strain hospitals, schools, and housing. Rent-control schemes
will suffocate small landlords and the middle class until they vanish entirely.
This isn’t speculation—it’s the socialist blueprint. And whether he realizes it or not, Sliwa is helping them implement it.
Let’s not kid ourselves: the Republican Party in New York City is hanging by a thread. We don’t have the luxury of ego.
The city doesn’t need a symbolic candidate—it needs a strategic one who can reach moderates, independents, and disillusioned Democrats tired of crime, taxes, and woke politics. Sliwa isn’t that man. He’s too divisive, too theatrical, too stuck in his own legend. While he’s mugging for cameras, Mamdani’s campaign is dominating the ground game that could flip this city for good.
That’s what makes this so tragic. The stakes couldn’t be higher. If Mamdani wins, it’s not just another left-wing mayor—it’s the death of New York as we know it. The city that once represented American toughness and capitalism, the city that fuels 10% of the nation’s GDP, will become a case study in progressive failure.
When crime spikes, when businesses flee, when taxes rise, and when the last middle-class family leaves, remember this moment. Remember the man who could have stopped it but chose attention instead. Curtis Sliwa won’t be remembered as the Guardian Angel who saved New York—he’ll be remembered as the man who handed it to the socialists.
“Curtis, your heart might still be in the right place, but your head isn’t,” said one New Yorker I met on 8th Avenue. “There’s no shame in stepping aside when the stakes are this high,” added Lisa Capazzo, a mother of three and waitress in Queens.
It’s time to do the right thing—for your party, your city, and the millions who still believe New York can be saved. Step aside, let Andrew Cuomo take the reins, and give this city a fighting chance. Because if you don’t, the next time New Yorkers look out their windows and see chaos in the streets, they won’t be thinking about the Guardian Angels—they’ll be cursing the man who let it happen.
Goblin march fills Center Moriches Main Street with magic
By Robert Chartuk
Main Street in Center Moriches came alive with ghosts, ghouls, and goblins as the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches hosted its annual trick or treat event, closing the street to traffic and opening it to hundreds of costumed kids and families.
A festival feeling ran through the crowd, shop windows were decked out in orange and black, local businesses handed out sweets, and music filled the October air. The Chamber credits
strong local participation and growing enthusiasm for making the event, known as the March of the Goblins, bigger and better every year.
Local elected officials joined in the fun as County Executive Ed Romaine and Town Supervisor Dan Panico—both Center Moriches residents—greeted trick-or-treaters alongside Legislator Jim Mazzarella and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle, handing out candy to the delighted crowd.
Dressing up as they do every year were Jill Vigliarolo and
Amy Weinhauer of the Country Cottage Diner. “Everyone really goes all out with their costumes,” Amy remarked.
“It’s a great way to start the holiday season and share a little love,” exclaimed Tova Keblish of Gavin’s Treasures. County Executive Romaine agreed: “The kids don’t have to go doorto-door in the dark. This makes Halloween special.” Supervisor Panico, who tinted his hair blue for the occasion, called it “a phenomenal day of costumes and smiles.”
According to the Chamber’s
Gerri Sapanaro, the event grows larger every year. “The kids get so excited and the parents enjoy it too,” she said, noting that the adults often have the best costumes.
Meanwhile, over in Mastic Beach, American Legion Post 1533 hosted a well-attended Trunk or Treat, offering candy and a safe place for Halloween fun, according to the post’s Service Officer Glenn O’Connell. In Medford, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano and Senator Dean Murray drew a crowd to their Fifth Annual Halloween event.
Kennedy outlines spending plan for $188 million bond sale
By Robert Chartuk
Last week, The South Shore Press reported the $188,735,000 in tax-exempt bonds recently sold through the office of Suffolk Comptroller John Kennedy. Here are some more details on how the money will be spent.
The sale yielded “impressive demand,” allowing the county to secure its lowest borrowing rate in several years. The winning bid came from Jefferies LLC at 2.96%, amid $1.5 billion in offers, demonstrating strong investor confidence in Suffolk County’s fiscal management and long-term credit stability.
“This was a highly successful sale with great results for our
taxpayers,” Kennedy said. “Strong investor confidence in the county’s credit and fiscal management helped us secure these favorable financing terms, which translate directly into savings for residents over the life of the bonds.”
Proceeds will support critical infrastructure and community-improvement efforts. Roughly $40 million is earmarked for law enforcement and emergency services, including $10 million for replacement TASERs, $12 million for a replacement police helicopter, and $5 million for Fire Rescue upgrades. About $10 million will go toward culture and recreation, strengthening parks, historic buildings, the ballpark, and the Cedar Island Lighthouse, ensuring
public spaces remain safe, accessible, and well-maintained.
Additionally, approximately $25 million will fund water-quality and environmental improvements, including upgrades across county sewer districts, rehabilitation of Guggenheim Lake (Babylon/Islip), and remediation of brownfield sites. An estimated $4.5 million is set aside for education-related projects, while smaller amounts will support community initiatives such as park restoration and road improvements in West Babylon and Huntington, directly enhancing the quality of life for local residents.
Kennedy noted that the bond sale reflects Suffolk County’s stronger financial standing,
including recent rating upgrades. The launch of the county’s Investor Engagement Webpage in 2024 also helped boost transparency and investor outreach. “Every
taxpayer dollar counts,” he added.
Charles Clampet
Suffolk’s recent $188.7 million borrowing package includes the purchase of a new police helicopter.
Robert Chartuk
Amy Weinhauer, left, and Jill Vigliarolo give out sweets at the Country Cottage Diner.
LOCAL
By Robert Chartuk
More than 70 years ago in the Dardanelles Strait, the Turkish submarine Dumlupinar sank after colliding with a Swedish vessel during NATO war games. Rescuers managed to establish contact with the trapped sailors, but attempts to save them failed due to strong currents and fragile communication cables. All 81 crew members aboard the diesel-electric vessel perished, and the site was officially declared a naval graveyard.
In a daring expedition, Ozzy Kurtoglu, a deep-sea diver and owner of the Wave gas station in East Moriches, dove to the submarine wreck, docu -
Long Island diver chronicles Turkish submarine wreck
menting the site and leaving a commemorative plaque to honor the fallen sailors.
Kurtoglu’s preparation was meticulous: sonar surveys pinpointed the submarine’s location at nearly 300 feet, remote-operated vehicles mapped the wreck, and a mixed-gas dive allowed him to observe the vessel firsthand. “We saw air bubbles coming from one of the manholes,” he recalled. “The experience was solemn. We treated it as a naval graveyard and paid our respects.”
Born in Turkey, Kurtoglu trained at Santa Barbara City College’s Marine Diving Technology program before launching a global career
in commercial diving. He worked on pipeline installations, sewage and water infrastructure, and salvage operations across the Mediterranean, Black Sea, and the Caspian. The submarine mission was one of his most challenging, requiring careful planning, specialized equipment, and extensive knowledge of mixed-gas diving, which uses a blend of helium and enriched oxygen.
The Dumlupinar had been returning to Istanbul after participating in NATO exercises when it collided with the Swedish cargo ship Naboland. Though some crew initially survived in the rear torpedo compartment, rescue opera -
tions could not overcome the extreme currents and structural limitations of the submarine. Kurtoglu’s epic dive
captured the site on film for the first time, honoring the crew’s memory and preserving the story for history.
‘La famiglia e tutto’ — family is everything!
By Deborah Williams
District Administrative Judge Hon. Andrew Crecca announced that earlier this month the Suffolk County Courts held their first annual Italian American Heritage Month Celebration.
The celebration marked the first time the Suffolk Courts honored the rich cultural contributions of Italian Americans to the legal profession and to the broader community. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Tracing Italian Immigrant History to the Italian American Present,” and the program featured a series of inspiring speeches celebrating the history, values, and achievements of Italian Americans in public service.
Organized by the District Administrative Judge’s Committee on Equal Justice in the
Courts and sponsored by the Suffolk County Bar Association and Suffolk County Columbian Lawyers Association, the festive event also offered a robust buffet of authentic Italian cuisine and even included a cannoli-making table.
“Celebrations like this help remind us that justice is not only about fairness in the courtroom,” said Hon. Cheryl Joseph, Acting Supreme Court Justice. “It’s about understanding and honoring the diverse histories and experiences that shape our community.”
Crecca, a proud Italian American himself said of his own Sicilian grandparents who passed through Ellis Island and who worked in Manhattan as
a barber and seamstress, “Like many Italian immigrants at the time, they took pride in their hard labor and in building their family. They believed strongly in the value of hard work and knew that achieving their dreams would require sacrifice and dedication.”
Crecca took a moment to recognize the late Supreme Court Justice Hon. Jerry Garguilo, a fellow Italian American jurist who left a lasting impact on the Suffolk legal community upon his unexpected death this Fall.
“Let us never forget: la famiglia e tutto—family is everything,” Crecca said at the close of the ceremony while the music of Frank Sinatra played in the backdrop,
Deep-sea diver anchors his Life on Long Island
By Robert Chartuk
The writing on the wall of the Wave gas station in East Moriches tells Ozzy Kurtoglu’s story at a glance: “Traded Fins for Fuel Pumps.”
Once a deep-sea diver working on shipwrecks and pipelines across the Mediterranean and Black Sea, Ozzy now fuels cars instead of exploring the ocean depths.
Born in Turkey, he came to the U.S. to bone up on his English. But a degree in Marine Diving Technology launched him into a globe-trotting career. He salvaged sunken vessels, installed underwater pipelines, and even placed a memorial plaque on a Turkish
submarine lost years ago. Adventures took him from Hawaii to the Caribbean, but he found his true anchor on Long Island.
“I love the South Shore,” Ozzy says, nodding toward Moriches Bay, just down the road from his station. “The waters are good for diving, and the community is very friendly. It feels like home.”
He hasn’t left the sea behind.
Ozzy taught his daughter Reyhan to dive, and they explore local shipwrecks together, from Moriches Inlet to nearby reefs. Cold or murky waters don’t dampen his passion; the fish, wrecks, and underwater history keep him engaged with Mother Ocean.
Running the Wave has
brought stability and rooted him in the community. The station displays his old windsurfing board and offers Turkish goods alongside everyday items. A mural, by Ukraine artist Karina Smyrnova, was inspired by his diving past and links his adventurous history with his current life.
“I’m not diving professionally anymore,” he admits, “but I’ve brought the sea here in a way. People see the mural and smile. It makes me feel at home.”
For Ozzy, the South Shore is more than work—it’s a harbor, a place to create memories with his daughter, and a community as welcoming as the waves he loves.
Suffolk County Courts
Supreme Court Justice Hon. John Leo takes a photo in the Mona Lisa frame. Leo is also President of the Suffolk Bar Association.
Turkish Navy
The Turkish submarine Dumlupinar
Robert Chartuk
Ozzy Kurtoglu with the mural on the wall of his gas station.
By Michael J. Reistetter
Suffolk County District
Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Tuesday that Silvia Alvarez DeReyes, 46, has been indicted for Leaving the Scene of an Incident Without Reporting.
The El Salvador national allegedly struck and killed 45-year-old Ever Eli Damian Mazat of Riverside while he was crossing the street in Riverhead.
“This case underscores the serious consequences of fleeing the scene of a crash,” said DA Tierney.
On October 5th, at approximately 7:19 p.m., Alvarez DeReyes’ 1999 Toyota Corolla was traveling northbound on Flanders Road. She allegedly drove
El Salvadoran woman indicted in Riverhead hit-and-run
through a crosswalk where the victim was walking and came to a brief stop before driving off.
The victim died at the scene. Meanwhile, the defendant allegedly failed to seek help or contact police, instead going to a friend’s house in Mastic after the collision.
Two hours later, Alvarez DeReyes allegedly returned to the crash site with friends, where she was placed under immediate arrest. The Toyota Corolla was later recovered at the Mastic home and secured as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
On October 28th, Alvarez DeReyes was produced pursuant to a writ from the custody of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (DHS-ICE).
Held on $25,000 cash bail, she was arraigned before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven A. Pilewski on one count of Leaving the Scene of an Incident Without Reporting and one count of Operating a Motor Vehicle Outside the Class of License, a traffic infraction.
Alvarez DeReyes — who reportedly only has a learner’s permit — faces up to seven years in prison if convicted.
“When someone leaves the injured behind without contacting the police, they not only break the law but betray the basic standards of decency our community expects,” Tierney continued.
“Our office will continue to pursue justice for victims and hold offenders accountable.”
Bay Shore man convicted of sex trafficking
By Michael J. Reistetter
Over the weekend, Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced that Freddie Rice, 34, was found guilty in a jury trial of Sex Trafficking. The Bay Shore resident used narcotics and financial coercion to lure victims into engaging in sexual acts with third parties.
“Today, justice was served,” said Tierney. “Freddie Rice’s crimes were calculated, predatory, and devastating to his victims.”
Evidence at trial established that Rice exploited the addictions of several women. As a means of control, he would withhold substances such as heroin and crack cocaine that he knew the women were dependent upon, and require
that they perform sex acts in exchange for the drugs.
He profited by directing the women to respond to buyers and surrender the earnings from the fees they were ordered to charge. If they kept any of the money, Rice would punish them by continuing to withhold their drug “payments.”
Rice told his victims that they were indebted to him and therefore must work to absolve their “debts.” However, no matter how much money they brought in, discussions of deduction were never held.
Amid the agonizing fear of withdrawal symptoms, this kept the women resigned to the shackles of prostitutional
captivity.
Rice was convicted on Friday, October 24th, of two counts of Sex Trafficking, Class B felonies, and one count of Promoting Prostitution in the Third Degree, a Class D felony, and is awaiting sentencing on separate, unrelated charges for controlled substance possession.
He is due back in court on November 25th, faces up to 50 years to life in prison, and will be certified as a sex offender.
In closing, Tierney advised: “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.”
Dental365 honors Veterans with a Free Day of Dentistry
By Deborah Williams
In honor of Veterans Day, Dental365 will once again host its annual Free Day of Dentistry for Veterans, offering complimentary dental care to veterans on Sunday, November 9, 2025 from 9am to 2pm. Veterans will receive free cleanings, x-rays, and comprehensive examinations thanks to the volunteer efforts of Dental365’s dedicated dentists, specialists, hygienists, assistants, and support staff. The event is expected to serve dozens of veterans at each of its five participating offices in NY, PA, RI, and CT.
The Suffolk County location is: Dental365 – Mt Sinai, 701
NY-25A – Suite A1, Mt Sinai, NY 11766
“America would not be what it is today without our Veterans and the sacrifices they have made. The free dentistry day is Dental365’s way of giving back and saying thank you,” said Dr. Scott Asnis, founder and CEO of Dental365.
Dental365’s Day of Dentistry program began as a grassroots idea from a longtime team member whose father, a veteran, struggled for years to access affordable dental care.
“Dr. Asnis saw potential in the idea and encouraged us to explore what giving back could look like,” said Jessica Colón, Chief of Staff. “When we realized we could use our
offices to serve veterans directly, everything clicked. We opened our doors one Sunday, and people lined up outside before we even started. That’s when we knew we could make a real difference.”
Dental365 expanded the Free Day of Dentistry across multiple states, partnering with vendors such as Henry Schein to provide materials. Veterans come in for everything from cleanings and x-rays to extractions and deep cleanings—often their first dental visit in years.
Some veterans now return annually. “They call us their ‘one day a year dentist,’” Colón said. “They wait for this day, because they know they’ll be treated with dignity and care.”
Dental365
Dental365
SCDA
Freddie Rice is due back in court on November 25th, faces up to 50 years to life in prison, and will be certified as a sex offender.
SCDA
“When someone leaves the injured behind without contacting the police, they not only break the law but betray the basic standards of decency our community expects,” said Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney.
HISTORY LESSONS
BY RICHARD ACRITELLI
“Your [Gen. Grant’s] dispatches as to fighting on Monday & Tuesday are here. Well done. Many thanks to all.”
— President Abraham Lincoln
Counting on the battlefield strengths of General Ulysses S. Grant after capturing the Confederate armies at Fort Donelson and Vicksburg, Lincoln looked to Grant to prevent the seizure of Chattanooga. Grant spoke to key officers about this military crisis and learned about the terrain from General William Farrar “Baldy” Smith. Having fallen out of favor within the Army of the Potomac for criticizing Generals Ambrose Burnside and Joseph Hooker, Smith was nevertheless highly regarded by Grant for his clear reporting of the landscape and enemy positions. Years later, Grant recalled that Smith “explained the situation of the two armies and the topography of the country so plainly that I could see it without an inspection.”
Grant learned that Missionary Ridge was about three hundred feet high and supported the Union defenders against a possible Confederate attack. For the Union, Lookout Mountain was a different story, as Bragg’s troops controlled this twelvehundred-foot elevated position and the major transportation links into Chattanooga. This information helped Grant secure the supply lines to gain much-needed provisions through the “Cracker Line.”
When Grant, Smith, and General George Thomas were carrying out reconnaissance, they came across Confederate soldiers near a narrow part of the Tennessee River. With 70,000 enemy soldiers in the area, these three main Union officers could have been easily shot by the Confederates. Grant recalled this encounter: “I suppose they looked upon the garrison of Chattanooga as prisoners of war... and thought that it would be inhuman to kill any of them (us) except in self-defense.” Within five days, Grant helped end this siege and looked forward to carrying out a future offensive attack against General Braxton Bragg. Grant wrote to Julia about his health, which had been hurt by a horseback riding accident, stating, “Instead of making my injury
worse, it has almost entirely cured me. I now walk without the use of a crutch or cane and mount my horse from the ground without difficulty.”
On November 7th, Grant wrote to Sherman and quickly requested his forces to reach Chattanooga to reinforce the beleaguered Union army. As Bragg weakened his forces by sending troops toward Knoxville — and was resented by his men — Grant worked well with many different officers. While he pushed for action against the enemy, he listened to Thomas, who sought more time to reinforce his troops. Grant left some preparations for the fighting to his generals and informed them, “You have been over this country, and having a better opportunity of studying it than myself, the details are left to you.” He understood that the Union was under-strength and decided to wait until Sherman arrived.
Sherman was ordered by General Henry Halleck to repair the railroad lines as he moved elements of the Army of the Tennessee toward Chattanooga. Both respected generals had struggled financially as civilians, and when they encountered each other in St. Louis, they agreed that the army had not trained its officers to be “good farmers.” As West Pointers, they understood the life of professional officers, but as civilians, they also understood the make-up of the volunteer soldier.
Grant was concerned about Burnside’s strength in Knoxville, and Halleck continually pressed him to exert influence on this general. He wanted to attack Bragg quickly to relieve pressure on Knoxville. Grant worked well with generals like Burnside, despite his disaster at Fredericksburg, and Hooker’s loss at Chancellorsville, giving them enough trust to oppose the enemy. This future lieutenant general had the ability to handle a leadership structure marred by past failures.
Additional supplies of clothing, food, ammunition, horses, 40,000 rations, and 39,000 pounds of forage were brought into Chattanooga under Grant. When these major supplies reached the soldiers, they exclaimed, “The Cracker Line is
General Ulysses S. Grant and the Defeat of the Confederates
open! Full rations, boys! Three cheers for the Cracker Line!” At another point, when the commanding general was noticed, some men said, “Grant be damned, a boatload of rations has come!” While there were operations led by Thomas and Smith to support this mission, it was Grant’s steady leadership that led to overall success.
By the end of October, Union steamboats and barges traveled down the Tennessee River with a steady flow of resources. The Army of the Cumberland was gaining strength in supplies and soldiers, determined to defeat Bragg’s forces. At this point, Halleck was heavily criticized by government officials for not doing enough to end the crisis. He frantically wrote to Grant several times, pushing him into action. Through moments of fighting and rest, Grant kept a calm demeanor and informed Julia that he rarely lost any “sleep.”
The average soldier admired Grant and observed, “You have no conception of the change in the army when Grant came. He opened the Cracker Line and got a steamer through. We began to see things move. We felt that everything came from a plan. He came into the army quietly—no splendor, no airs, no staff. He used to go about alone. He began the campaign the moment he reached the field.”
On November 13th, Sherman’s forces arrived after traveling more than six hundred miles to reach Grant. Both generals were pleased to see each other, and while vastly different men, they were united in determination to defeat Bragg. Jefferson Davis openly believed that the Union would lose at Chattanooga, and as Secretary of War in 1854, he had accepted Grant’s resignation for intoxication on duty. Grant believed that Davis indirectly benefited the Union war effort through the major mistakes he continually made. By keeping Bragg in command, he weakened Confederate chances of victory. Longstreet, Grant’s close friend from West Point and a guest at his wedding, was critical of Bragg and thought highly of Grant. Davis’s own officers warned that Bragg lacked the confidence of his army and could not
oppose Grant effectively.
General Robert E. Lee expressed to Davis that after Longstreet fought Burnside at Knoxville, he should return to the Army of Northern Virginia. As Bragg faced dissension, Grant took a different approach — listening, asking questions, and respecting his senior generals. This was vintage Grant, demonstrating to Lincoln that he was capable of running the entire war effort by early 1864.
Grant expected to attack Bragg’s forces, but conflicting reports indicated that additional reinforcements were being sent to aid Longstreet against Burnside. Rain delayed an attack planned for November 24th against the weaker positions of Missionary Ridge. Grant preferred to use Sherman for the main attack while keeping Thomas in reserve. He could use Thomas either to support Sherman’s advance or to strike the center of Bragg’s lines. The Union had 80,000 soldiers among Sherman’s and Thomas’s four divisions, Hooker’s three divisions, and two divisions led by General Oliver Howard in the rear. As Bragg sent some forces toward Knoxville, he had about 40,000 men left to oppose Grant’s strength.
A deserter captured by Union forces reported that Bragg had fallen back from his position. While Grant could not be certain, he ordered Thomas to attack the center of Missionary Ridge. Early in the morning, Grant ordered Hooker to lead 10,000 soldiers to create a diversion at Lookout Mountain. Hooker, however, wanted to engage the enemy, push them from their elevated positions, and redeem himself in the military and political circles that held him in contempt. His soldiers clung to branches and rocks as they climbed the mountain under Confederate artillery fire, their movements concealed by clouds.
When Sherman’s troops began their assault on Missionary Ridge, poor maps led them up Billy Goat Hill instead. Believing he had captured his objective, Sherman sent a message to Grant claiming success. The next day, as the fighting resumed, Grant moved his headquarters to Orchard Hill to observe the battle. Sherman realized his error; his
men were in a ravine near Tunnel Hill. Bragg then ordered General Patrick Cleburne back from Lookout Mountain, strengthening his line. Sherman’s men faced intense fire at close range.
Sherman sent a message asking Grant to have Thomas attack the front of Missionary Ridge. Watching from reserve, Thomas’s men saw Sherman’s troops falling back. Concerned, Grant ordered the Army of the Cumberland to seize the rifle pits in front of them. Facing 16,000 Confederates, Thomas’s divisions advanced under heavy fire, climbing Missionary Ridge — and to everyone’s surprise, Bragg’s men began to retreat. Grant was astonished to see the unexpected charge succeed; the soldiers had no choice but to keep moving as they were exposed in the open and under cannon fire.
During this battle, there were many surprises for Grant, but his forces secured Chattanooga and forced Bragg to retreat in disarray. General Douglas MacArthur’s father, Arthur MacArthur, was an eighteenyear-old captain from Wisconsin who planted the first flags against the Confederates. Hooker reinforced the assault at Missionary Ridge. Despite confusion, three Union armies combined to defeat Bragg’s forces.
When Sherman was sent to help Burnside at Knoxville, it was discovered that Longstreet had retreated to join the Army of Northern Virginia. Grant lifted the siege through the resiliency of the Army of the Cumberland, the drive of Hooker, and Bragg’s poor leadership in sending Longstreet away. Grant later wrote that the victory at Chattanooga was partly due to Davis: “On several occasions during the war he came to the relief of the Union army by means of his superior military genius.”
This battle proved to Lincoln that Grant was the leader capable of winning the war and preserving the nation. Grant led three different armies and multiple generals over terrain he barely knew, achieving a decisive victory. The success at Chattanooga paved the way for Union advances into Georgia, helping bring the Civil War closer to its end.
That was a movie: from Long Beach Cinemas to extra guac shop
By Michael J. Reistetter
When I was in high school, one of our pre–standardized exam prompts asked us to imagine what we’d do with the abandoned Kings Park Psychiatric Center properties if we were in charge of town planning. Cinephile that I am, I proposed building a drive-in movie theater.
Twelve years later—still no dice.
When a movie theater closes, the flags in my mind instantly fly at half-mast. There are but a few vacants I’d ever welcome in their stead. The thought comes to mind with the recently canceled Islip
movie apartment project. What’s to come now? Corner bar? Corner bar?? Corner bar???
Meanwhile, over in Long Beach, a Chipotle Mexican Grill is set to open in the retail space that once housed the beloved Long Beach Cinemas, which closed its doors in April 2023.
Now, don’t get me wrong—and Long Beach Facebook group posters, maybe look away—the closing of any movie theater is never to be celebrated. But if the vacant area was going to be claimed by anything else, what better than a Chipotle? There can never be enough.
The fast-casual “build-yourown” chain began in a Denver ice
cream shop in 1993. Three decades later, it operates over 3,800 restaurants nationwide, including 36 on Long Island.
The more Chipotles we have, the less we travel—and the more often we can afford to go. Having one everywhere becomes its own kind of movie: one where we’re writer, director, and star of both our short-game self-satiation and our long road to fine-palated happiness.
As for moviegoing, people still go, appetite in tow. But if Chipotles started getting Thanos-snapped away, turnout would vanish too.
In short, leave the chip; take the guacamole.
LOCAL
By Robert Chartuk
As the holiday season approaches, the annual Operation Christmas Senior gift drive invites community members to help brighten the lives of isolated seniors in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Making a senior smile is simple: drop off a gift at one of the local collection sites and let them know they are remembered.
Those wishing to give can donate playing cards, Jenga, dominoes, or large-piece puzzles. Other games, crafts, coloring books, yarn kits, and painting sets are also encouraged, along with hygiene items such as lotion, toothbrushes, and combs. Warm apparel like non-skid socks, sweatshirts, or
Bring a smile: Operation Christmas Senior seeks donations
shawls is welcome, as are books, reading lights, walker caddies, and notepads.
Donation boxes will be at Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano’s district office (3245 Route 112, Bldg. 2, Suite 6, Medford) and in library lobbies at Brookhaven, Mastics-Moriches-Shirley, Medford, Sachem, and South Country branches.
“Last year was such a huge success, thanks to all of you,” the Assemblyman said in promoting the drive. “I’m proud to partner again with Voices for Seniors to bring a smile this Christmas to the elderly who often go unnoticed.” His office notes that large donation pick-ups at libraries and sites enable volunteers to shuttle gifts directly to facilities, where they are assembled by
Voices for Seniors volunteers and staff.
Voices for Seniors, founded during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, was born of heartbreak when families were locked out of nursing homes and left without recourse. Since 2020, the group has evolved into a nonprofit advocating for transparency, dignity, and accountability in elder care. Its signature program, Operation Christmas Senior, mobilizes supporters across New York to donate gifts for seniors with no family or limited contact.
Organizers hope to fill every collection box and surpass past totals. Visit voicesforseniors. com or call 631-207-0073 to ensure no senior feels forgotten.
Law firm donates high-tech golf cart to state park police
By Robert Chartuk
Security operations at Bethpage State Park just got a major upgrade thanks to a donation from Miller & Caggiano, LLP. The firm provided a state-ofthe-art golf cart to the New York State Parks Department, enhancing mobility and response time for officers stationed at the public golf course — a host for major events including the Ryder Cup, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship.
“Having a golf cart is extremely valuable to us,” said Officer David Fhagen, who had use of the cart during this summer’s Ryder Cup. “We used it for carrying equipment,
transporting dignitaries, reuniting lost children with their families, and handling a couple of medical issues.”
Before the donation, park officers often had to borrow carts from the course leasing agency, which weren’t always available. Their regular patrol vehicles couldn’t be driven on the course without risking turf damage, forcing officers to park and walk long distances.
The new vehicle, valued at more than $8,000, comes fully equipped with police lights, siren, PA system, and an upgraded suspension that lifts it higher off the ground. The modifications were completed by Parkway Car Stereo. “Being higher off the ground allows us
to go places a conventional golf cart can’t,” said Major Anthony Astacio. The Major, who has served more than 30 years with the department and worked multiple major golf events, said it’s the first time his team has had its own dedicated cart. The donation, attorney Todd Miller explained, came after a discussion with his partner, Greg Caggiano, about how difficult it was for officers to operate without one.
“When Greg told me why they needed it, it just made sense,” Miller said. “The parks police staff works hard and they deserve the tools to do their job well.” Their firm has offices in Bohemia and Carl Place.
Long Island University wins state grant award
By Deborah Williams
Governor Hochul announced $49 million investment to strengthen New York’s private, not-for-profit colleges and universities across the state.
The grants are intended to help colleges and universities modernize their campuses, enhance student experiences, and drive statewide economic growth with the jobs the capital grants create.
Long Island University is set to receive $1,512,760 to construct of a lab for immersive and experiential learning. This will improve the educational experience for students.
Hochul announced the capital grants for 35 colleges and universities across New York State
through the Higher Education Capital Matching Grant Program, or HECap program.
The funding supports projects that will upgrade facilities, create modern laboratory and research spaces, and invest in cutting-edge instructional technology and equipment — ensuring that New York’s higher education institutions remain at the forefront of innovation and opportunity.
In the last round of HeCap funding, Long Island University was awarded $1,344,625.00 million for Construction of an Engineering Fabrication Laboratory.
“New York’s independent colleges and universities are engines of innovation that prepare our students for success
and strengthen communities in every region of the state,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in modern classrooms, laboratories and facilities, we’re ensuring that students have access to the tools and environments they need to thrive. These projects stand for our ongoing commitment to keeping New York at the forefront of education and economic opportunity.”
HECap grants are critically important to enable campuses statewide to make investments in their infrastructure and equipment while creating construction jobs and supporting regional economic development. Campuses that receive HECap grants are required to invest at least $3 of their own funds for every $1 in state funds received.
Miller & Caggiano
Sgt. Elyse DiBona of the state Park Police sits behind the wheel of a new golf cart donated by Miller & Caggiano, LLP.
Alice Painter
Assemblyman Joe DeStefano with gifts collected for seniors.
Long Island University
Capital improvement grant set to improve programs for Long Island University.
When combined with the colleges’ matching funds, more than $195 million will be
invested in New York’s higher education communities through this round of awards.
ASK NANCY
BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.
Q: My friend told me that she wants to name me as executor in her Will. Is there anything I should know before I agree?
A:You should know that anyone can nominate you as executor of his or her Will, they do not have to notify the person they nominate, and they do not need your permission. There are many factors that determine whether acting as executor will be a smoothly paved road or a bumpy one. Keep in mind that you can resign if someone nominates you as his or her executor and you do not want to act.
One hurdle is possessing sufficient knowledge of a per -
son’s family tree. In New York, when someone passes away with a Will, the executor is responsible for providing a copy of the Will to the deceased person’s “next of kin”– even if those family members are not inheriting. The family members can either sign a waiver which expresses their consent to the Will being admitted to probate, or the Court will provide a date where the family members can appear and file objections.
This can be especially tricky if someone dies with more remote next of kin such as cousins or first cousins once removed. Sometimes a genealogist will be hired to determine the deceased’s next of kin, or the court will require publication in a local newspaper if next of kin is unknown. This can be costly and cause significant delays in the court proceeding.
Sometimes the Court will require that an attorney be appointed on behalf of unknown next of kin or have the Public Administrator review the efforts made to locate and provide notice to all next of kin. The estate must pay for these
Burner Prudenti Law: What Should I Know About Being an Executor?
additional fees and attorneys.
The process is very cumbersome if an executor has no access to funds when the deceased’s accounts can only be accessed with Letters Testamentary which are issued by the Court after the executor is officially appointed. Payment for the attorneys’ fees and genealogist’s fees may have to be paid upfront, and then reimbursed once there is access to estate funds.
Executor’s may take a commission, but it is based on the value of estate assets, not the time spent attending to the estate.
Additionally, you want to make sure that your friend provides you with access to the original Will as you will be required to file the original for probate.
Erin Cullen, Esq. is an associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Trusts and Estates. Melissa Doris, Esq. is a Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Trusts and Estates, Estate Planning and Real Estate.. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the east end of
LIBRARY LIVING
BY TARA D’AMATO Assistant Library Director
Stream Movies, TV, Documentaries from Your Library
The Community Library has two great video streaming services you can access with your library card. Watch free movies at home, on the go on your tablet or laptop, or stream to your smart TV. Instead of paying cable tv fees or Amazon Prime, make the most of your library membership and save some money by streaming. Visit www.communitylibrary.org and select Books, Movies, Music from the top menu to get started. Don’t have home internet? Borrow a MiFi device from the library to access free Internet service from home. Please note, there may be a waitlist for this device.
HOOPLA
Hoopla lets you borrow digital music, movies, including children’s movies, documentaries, comics and graphic novels for children, teens, and adults to stream in your web browser or to enjoy offline on your device. With hundreds of thousands of titles to choose from, and more being added daily, Hoopla is like having your public library at your fingertips. Instead of having holds and wait periods, you can borrow titles anytime you want. Any title you borrow can be viewed across any device you’re signed into.
Hoopla supports Amazon Alexa devices, too. Play borrowed audiobooks and music albums directly on your Amazon Echo, Dot, Spot, and Show devices. Just search for “hoopla digital”
in the Amazon Skills marketplace. To use Hoopla on your device, you must download the App first. Find the Hoopla app in the Apple Google Play store and use your library barcode to sign in.
KANOPY
Kanopy is a video-streaming platform dedicated to thoughtful and thought-provoking films. With an ideal platform for showcasing independent films that fuel lifelong learning, Kanopy is on a mission “to ensure that everyone has access to enriching films that bridge cultural boundaries, spark discussion, and expand worldviews.” You can choose from thousands of Hollywood classics, mainstream hits, art-house releases and foreign films to watch with the service.
Watch up to 10 critically-acclaimed movies, inspiring documentaries, and award-winning foreign films each month. While it’s not the spot to go for the most current Hollywood blockbusters, it fills in our video library with content like award winners, classic and indie films, and foreign content. Kanopy also recently teamed up with HBO Documentaries, the hot indie studio A24 and the prestigious Criterion Collection to offer content. Simply add your Mastics-MorichesShirley Community Library card number and PIN or password after selecting Kanopy from the library’s webpage.
Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.
Photo Illustration
Happening at the
Teens
Unless otherwise noted, all programs are for teens in grades 6 through 12.
Register for programs three easy ways: In person, online at www.communitylibrary.org or contact the Teen Reference Desk at 631-399-1511 ext. 2015 for the Moriches Branch, ext. 1029 for the Mastic Beach Branch or ext. 2025 for the Main Building.
Fun and Games
Pin Pals
FUN & GAMES
Name That Landmark!
Earn a pin each time you attend a teen program! You can also trade pins with teen staff while in the library. Use them to decorate your backpack or anything you want!
Marvel Multiverse RPG
Monday, November 10
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, November 4, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Name That Landmark!
Tuesday, November 4
Registration begins on 10/21.
5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. Registration begins on 10/27. Play as your favorite Marvel superhero or create your own to face off against the most menacing villains of the Marvel Multiverse in this exciting tabletop game!
Roblox Escape Room
Tuesday, November 11, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Join the fun on Kahoot. Guess U.S. landmarks from photos and compete for bragging rights!
Switch Game Time
Registration begins on 10/21. Join the fun on Kahoot. Guess U.S. landmarks from photos and compete for bragging rights!
Wednesday, November 5, 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
Switch Game Time
Registration begins 10/22.
Wednesday, November 5
Held at our Main Building. Registration begins on 10/28. You have been transported into the world of Roblox! Work together to complete the IRL versions of favorite Roblox games in order to escape! Will you escape back to reality, or be trapped in the world of Roblox forever?
Mystery Video Game
Tournament
Saturday, November 22 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
Registration begins on 11/8. Think you’re a video game master?
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
Retro Gaming
Hang out and play Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart, Mario Party, or Switch Sports.
Friday, November 14, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Registration begins 10/22.
Marvel Multiverse RPG
Monday, November 10, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
Hang out and play Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart, Mario Party, or Switch Sports.
Registration begins on 10/27.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch. Registration begins on 10/31.
Wednesday, November 19, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Play as your favorite Marvel superhero or create your own to face off against the most menacing villains of the Marvel Multiverse in this exciting tabletop game!
Roblox Escape Room
Held at our Main Building. Registration begins on 11/5. Pretend it is the arcade days with some retro NES games on the Nintendo Switch! Eat snacks and try to get the highest score!
Tuesday, November 11, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Registration begins on 10/28.
Entertainment
Eats
You have been transported into the world of Roblox! Work together to complete the IRL versions of favorite Roblox games in order to escape! Will you escape back to reality, or be trapped in the world of Roblox forever?
Comfy Cozy Sunday: K-Pop Demon Hunters
Sunday, November 23, 1:00 – 2:45 p.m.
Retro Gaming
Friday, November 14, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
Registration begins on 10/31.
Held at our Main Building. Registration begins on 11/10. Watch K-Pop Demon Hunters and decorate cookies. This program may not be suitable for teens with food allergies.
Wednesday, November 19, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Registration begins on 11/5.
Pretend it is the arcade days with some retro NES games on the Nintendo Switch! Eat snacks and try to get the highest score!
Teens Read
Teen Friendsgiving
Tuesday, November 25, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building. Registration begins on 11/11.
Enjoy a festive feast from Thanksgiving dinner, to dessert, to tasty treats in-between. Play games, make crafts, eat good food, and celebrate the festive season with the Teen Department.
Manga Book Club & Anime Watch Party
Mystery Video Game Tournament
Advanced Battle of the Books
Tuesdays, November 4, 11, 18
Saturday, November 22, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Thursdays, November 6, 13, 20
Held at our Moriches Branch.
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Registration begins on 11/8.
Held at our Main Building. Registration is open.
Do you have an interest in reading and trivia?
Wednesday, November 5 4:15 – 5:15 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
Think you’re a video game master? Put your skills to the test, as you won’t know which game you’re playing until you arrive for the tournament! The overall winner earns themselves a $20 Nintendo eShop Card!
D&D
Advanced Battle of the Books is a countywide competition for teens in grades 9 through 12. We will compete against other Suffolk County libraries in the spring.
Monday, November 24, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Mastic Beach Branch.
Registration begins on 11/10.
Registration begins on 10/22. Read and discuss Fruits Basket by Natsuki Takaya, then enjoy eating snacks as we watch episodes from the anime adaptation! Check out the book with your library card from the Mastic Beach branch or Main building.
Join Charlie, super-cool Teen Services librarian and your friends for a unique, custom-made D&D adventure! Character sheets and dice will be provided.
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
Everyone Loves a Story
EVERYONE LOVES A STORY
Monday, March 24, 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
Registration begins Monday, March 3.
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
Mary Bruno Friedman’s Book Talk
Tuesday, November 11, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
Registration begins Tuesday, October 28.
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.
Relax with Yoga
Tuesday, March 4, 11, 18, 25 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Meet Mary Bruno Friedman, the author of Of Heroic Proportion: An American Story, a nonfiction book about patriotism and a man’s survival in the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Mary will be discussing her book and answering questions. There are limited copies available for checkout at the library. If you would like to purchase the book, it is available on Amazon in paperback (ISBN #9798991612968) and hardcover (ISBN #9798991612944).
Held at our Main Building.
Registration begins Tuesday, February 25.
What’s On Your Nightstand?
Registration begins Tuesday, March 4. 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
The author will not be selling copies of the book on the day of the presentation.
Thursday, November 13, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Held at Sunsets at Senix Restaurant, 50 Senix Avenue, Center Moriches
Registration begins Tuesday, November 4.
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.
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.
Art of Reading Book Club
Thursday, March 20, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Held at our Main Building. Registration begins Thursday, February 20. 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
Thursday, November 13, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Held at our Moriches Branch.
Your Home’s Electrical System
Saturday, March 29, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Join our unique book club celebrating creativity and the artistic process. Each month, we discuss works exploring the art of making through the lens of writers, musicians, painters, and thinkers. All are welcome for thoughtful conversation and creative reflection! This month, we’re reading Stephen King’s On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft.
Book Discussion:
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
Thursday, November 20, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Held at our Main Building.
Registration begins Thursday, October 23.
Registration begins Thursday, March 6. 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.
Power of Reset and How to Change What’s Not Working
York Times Bestselling co-author of Made to Stick, Switch, and The Power of Moments
Join our discussion of the New York Times bestseller and “Read with Jenna” pick, Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson. This rich, multi-generational saga begins when Eleanor Bennett’s death leaves her children, Byron and Benny, a mysterious voice recording and a family-recipe black cake. Eleanor’s message unravels a tumultuous secret involving a young swimmer who fled her island home under suspicion of murder, challenging everything the siblings know about their family. Book pickup at the Main Building starts October 23rd
The featured March events and authors are:
#1 New
Women on the Hill
STATE
By Robert Chartuk
A new statewide poll is shaking up New York’s political landscape, showing that Congresswoman Elise Stefanik narrowly leads Gov. Kathy Hochul in a potential 2026 gubernatorial matchup — the first time in decades a Republican has polled ahead of a sitting Democrat governor.
According to the Manhattan Institute survey, Stefanik holds a one-point edge over Hochul, 43% to 42%, among registered voters, and a wider six-point lead over Lieutenant Gov. Antonio Delgado. The poll, which leans heavily toward Democrats in its sampling, suggests that voter frustration with rising costs and state policies could be fueling a political realignment.
History making poll shows Stefanik leading Hochul
Team Elise called the results historic, stating, “In a heavily Democrat-leaning state, Republican Elise Stefanik is leading Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul in a head-to-head matchup.”
The campaign blasted Hochul as “the Worst Governor in America” and criticized her endorsement of Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, calling him a “Defund the Police, tax-hiking, raging Antisemite Socialist.”
The poll also provides a snapshot of New York City’s upcoming mayoral election, where Mamdani leads with 46% of the vote, followed by former Governor Andrew Cuomo at 31% and Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa at 21%. With 8% undecided, Mamdani could win without securing a majority of votes — something
New York hasn’t seen since John Lindsay’s election in 1969.
Despite Mamdani’s apparent strength, the survey found that voters remain skeptical of several progressive policies, favoring tougher penalties for fare evasion, rolling back bail reform, and maintaining merit-based education standards.
Though Hochul endorsed the Socialist Mamdani, he did not return the favor as his supports roundly booed the government at a recent campaign rally and chanted “Tax the rich.” Hochul embarrassly said she thought they were yelling Go Bills for the Buffalo football team.
With Stefanik’s numbers climbing, analysts predict next year’s contest could be the most competitive in generations.
NY Civil Service exam now accepts experience, not just degrees
By Deborah Williams
New York is modernizing the qualifications for 800 job titles combining experience and degree considerations in hiring practices. This change will expand public sector opportunities to many more New Yorkers.
The Department of Civil Service modernized the minimum requirements for nearly 800 entry- and promotional-level civil service titles across 20,000 positions to allow equivalent experience as an alternative for college degrees when evaluating jobseekers. By combining experience-based hiring with degree-based hiring, New York is expanding opportunities for
many jobseekers without diluting the quality of the candidate pool.
“Many jobseekers have gained valuable real-world work experience in their careers and
can use their unique skills and talents to contribute to New York’s dedicated public workforce,” Governor Hochul said. “This common sense change, which is already used by many employers in the private and public sectors nationwide, will eliminate a barrier to rewarding careers faced by many prospective public servants and allow them to put their experience to work to benefit all New Yorkers.”
The changes will take effect immediately. Of those titles, more than 600 of them are promotional titles open to current state employees, while more than 150 are entry-level titles open to the general public.
College degree requirements
for middle skill jobs — those that require employees with more than a high school diploma but less than a college degree — restricts the candidate pool and locks out the more than half of working-aged adults who do not hold a bachelor’s degree.
Employers nationwide are resetting degree requirements for a wide range of roles for entry-level, professional, and even some supervisory and managerial positions. This is not only a trend in the private sector. The federal government and some states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland, have allowed experience as an alternative to degree requirements for thousands of jobs.
Long Island Republican Senators demand answers from LIRR
By Deborah Williams
Long Island Republican Senators demanded answers following and alarming MTA Inspector General’s report on alleged overtime fraud at the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
NYS Senator Dean Murray (R,C - 3rd District) and NYS Senator Alexis Weik (R,C8th District) sent a joint letter to LIRR President Rob Free, demanding answers as to how railroad management allowed this most recent, alleged OT fraud scandal to occur. Citing the fact that this scheme apparently occurred over the course of 3 years and that this is not the first such scandal at the LIRR, the Senators ex -
pressed their frustration over management’s apparent lack of commitment to preventing such waste, fraud and abuse and requested a meeting with President Free.
The letter refers to the MTA Inspector General’s recent investigation that uncovered an alleged overtime fraud scheme involving at least 36 LIRR workers over 3 years.
The Senators questioned how this could have gone on for so long.
The Senators point out that as part of the overtime fraud scheme, “one worker —a gang foreman —actually raked in over $345K in 2024, more than you, the President of the railroad. How did this not set off red flags?”
“Once again, another scandal involving the LIRR is making headlines all across the TriState region, and we would like to know WHY,” the letter said. “How is that possible? How could there be no checks and balances to catch these massive irregularities?”
Murray and Weik spoke about this not being a “onetime or rare occurrence” otherwise they could deal with these workers and move on.
“The fact that virtually every audit and investigation uncovers rampant waste, fraud, and abuse means that you and your management team are just as much to blame. Management needs to change... because Long Islanders deserve better,” they said.
New York State Civil Service
More New York jobseekers to be eligible for civil service jobs.
Robert Chartuk
Elise Stefanik
Long Island Railroad
LIRR faces questions about employment fraud.
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
Public Notices
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 L16374 - 10/29/2025, 11/05/ 2025, 11/12/2025, & 11/19/2025
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 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 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
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 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 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 L16367 - 10/15/25, 10/22/25, 10 /29/25, & 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
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
PUBLIC NOTICE
BOARD OF FIRE
COMMISSIONERS MIDDLE ISLAND FIRE DISTRICT
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the MIDDLE ISLAND FIRE DISTRICT will have an Information Hearing on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at the District Office Building of the Middle Island Fire District, 195 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, New York, to review and invite the public comment on the upcoming referendum for voters
to approve the sale of one (1) 2010 Pierce Sabor 1500/750 Pumper Truck for the amount no less than $240,000.00.
L16390- 11/25/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Suffolk ARC Home LLC f/k/a WEI Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Adam F. Tuzza a/k/a Adam Tuzza a/k/a Adam Francis Tuzza, Olga Tuzza a/k/a Olga A. Tuzza, et al, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on December 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM premises known as 80 Woodacres Road, East Patchogue, NY 11772. 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: 983.00, BLOCK: 01.00, LOT: 025.000, District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $552,973.37 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 203102/2022. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Erin McTiernan, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP, 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 L16378- 11/5/2025, 11/12/2025, 11/19/2025, & 11/26/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DITECH FINANCIAL LLC,against- MARLENE DIAZ, 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 October 31, 2016, wherein DITECH FINANCIAL LLC is the Plaintiff and MARLENE DIAZ, 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 December 4, 2025 at 12:30PM, premises known as 731 OLD MEDFORD AVE, MEDFORD, NY 11763; and the following tax map identification: 0200-837.00 -03.00-039.000.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
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.: 002170/2013.
Michael T. Clancy, Esq.Referee. The Referee does not accept cash and only accepts bank checks or certified checks made payable to Michael T. Clancy, as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing.
*LOCATION OF SALE
SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF REGISTRATION ROLLS FOR ANNUAL ELECTION OF THE MASTIC FIRE DISTRICT
PLEASE BE ADVISED, that the Board of Elections of the Mastic Fire District shall meet on the 24th day of November, 2025 between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the Fire Headquarters Building located at 1080 Mastic Road, Mastic, New York for the purpose of preparing the rolls of registered voters of the Mastic Fire District. The annual election of the Mastic Fire District will be held on the 9th day of December 2025 between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. at the Mastic Fire Headquarters Building located at 1080 Mastic Road, Mastic, New York.
PLEASE BE ADVISED that only those persons who have registered with the County Board of Elections on or before the 17th day of November, 2025 shall be eligible to vote.
PLEASE BE ADVISED that candidates for District Office shall file their names with the Secretary of the Mastic Fire District at the Mastic Fire District Office, located at No. 1080 Mastic Road, Mastic, New York no later than twenty (20) days before the date of the election. Said filing shall be submitted in the form of petition subscribed by twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the Fire District to the Fire District Secretary. Petition forms shall be made available by the Fire District Secretary. L16380- 11/05/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND
SOCIETY, FSB, NOT
INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION
TRUST 2018-HB1, Plaintiff, AGAINST CHRISTOPHER DALY, AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF NANCY DALY, et al. Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on April 29, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on December 3, 2025 at 9:00 AM premises known as 18 Winnie Road, Center Moriches, NY 11934. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Suffolk County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.
All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Center Moriches, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Section 944.00, Block 3.00 and Lot 42.000. Approximate amount of judgment $357,910.78 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #624676/ 2017.
Mark Goldsmith, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLP - Attorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 L16381- 11/5/2025, 11/12/2025, 11/19/2025, & 11/26/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held by the Brookhaven Town Board acting as the Planning Board on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., in person, on the 2nd floor of Brookhaven Town Hall at One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York, to consider the application of Nikolay Nikolov, 9 Cristina Dr, Manorville, NY to repeal Restrictive Covenants for property known as Manorville Pinewoods Lot 3. Covenant relief being requested on the above-described premises is as follows:
An increase in clearing limit from 36% to 73%.
The application and diagram of the subject property are on file in the Planning Division and may be examined during regular business hours. At the time of the public hearing all interested parties will be given the opportunity to speak. Daniel J. Panico, Supervisor L16375 - 11/05/2025
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 Public Sale: The following Self Storage unit contents containing household and other goods Will be sold for cash by StorQuest Self Storage 393 Smith road Shirley, NY 11967 (631)-729-6945 To satisfy a lien on 11/12/2025 at approx. 12:00pm at www.storagetreasures.com P2 Michael McFarling 032 George Deabold 039 Darryl Moore 058 Mugel Bernacet 092 Thomas Sciandra 117 Patrick Andersen 136 Charmaine Bertrand 244 William Hazzard 309 William Campbell 358 Shanada Bon 454 Angel Booker 468 Phillip Lilley 489 Amira Zatara 600 Jennifer Davis L16383- 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF ANNUAL FIRE DISTRICT ELECTION NOTICE OF FILING PETITION Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Town Law, the Annual Election of the East Moriches Fire District located in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, will be held on the 9th day of December, 2025, at the Fire House, 9 Pine Street, East Moriches, NY, between the hours of 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM for the purpose of: Electing one (1) Commissioner for a term of five (5) years commencing January 1, 2026 and terminating December 31, 2030 Duly qualified electors of the East Moriches Fire District shall be those electors registered under permanent personal registration and being a resident of the Fire District for thirty (30) days next preceding the Annual Fire District Election held on December 9, 2025. Please note that only those persons who have registered with the Suffolk County Board of Elections on or before the 23rd day before the Fire District Election Day shall be eligible to vote. In 2025, such registration must take place on or before November 17, 2025. All aspiring candidates for the office of Fire Commissioner must file their petitions, signed by twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the Fire District, with the Secretary of the East Moriches Fire District, at least twenty (20) days prior to the Fire District Election. In 2025, such filing must take place on or before Wednesday, November 19, 2025. Petitions may be obtained by contacting Robert Kanas, Secretary, P.O. Box 313, East Moriches, NY 11940, or calling 631-878-1422 between the hours of 9:00 AM & 5:00 PM. L16384- 11/05/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION
Medford Fire District in the Town of Brookhaven Suffolk County, New York
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Fire Commissioners, a special election of the qualified voters of the Medford Fire District in Brookhaven, New York, County of Suffolk will be held at the Medford Fire Department’s Firehouse located at 171 Oregon Avenue, Medford, New York on the 2nd day of December, 2025, between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 pm. to vote on whether to approve the following one resolutions adopted by such Board of Fire Commissioners: RESOLUTION NO. 1 RESOLUTION FOR PURCHASE AND IMPROVEMENT OF LAND RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE MEDFORD FIRE DISTRICT, IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, SUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW YORK (THE “DISTRICT”), AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE AND IMPROVEMENT OF LAND, THE MAXIMUM COST OF WHICH IS ANTICIPATED TO BE $3,500,000; APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT THEREFORE; AND AUTHORIZING THE FINANCING BY ISSUANCE OF A SERIAL BOND OR STATUTORY INSTALLMENT BOND OR INSTALLMENT PURCHASE AGREEMENT, UP TO THIRTY (30) YEARS FOR THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF $3,500,000 PRINCIPAL, AND TO ISSUE BOND
ANTICIPATION NOTES IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE ABOVE, FOR UP TO FIVE CONSECUTIVE YEARS. All persons registered to vote in the district and residing in the fire district for at least thirty (30) days prior to the day of the vote may vote in such special election.
Pursuant to Local Finance Law Section 80, the validity of such bonds or notes or any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the sale of such bonds may be contested only if such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which the fire district is not authorized to expend money; or if the provisions of law which should be complied with as of this date are not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity, is commenced within twenty days after the date of such publication; or such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.
L16385- 11/05/2025
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Center Moriches Board of Fire Commissioners will hold its annual election on December 9, 2025 between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. at the Center Moriches Fire Department located at 301 Main Street, Center Moriches, NY. The positions that are voted on are the following: Position 1 – Choose a candidate for a full five-year term, a term beginning on January 1, 2026, until December 31, 2030. All registered voters within the boundaries of the Center Moriches Fire District are eligible to vote. All candidates for the office of Fire Commissioner must submit their petitions signed by twenty-five (25) qualified Fire District voters, with the Center Moriches Fire District Clerk twenty (20) days prior to the District Election. In 2025, such filing must take place on or before Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the close of business. Petitions can be obtained by contacting Michael Schlosberg, Fire District Secretary, 301 Main Street, Center Moriches NY 11934 or by calling 631-878-0117. L16386 - 11/05/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
AVISO PÚBLICO
La Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos de Center Moriches llevará a cabo su elección anual el 9 de diciembre de 2025 entre las 5:00 p.m. y las 9:00 p.m. en el Departamento de Bomberos de Center Moriches ubicado en 301 Main Street, Center Moriches, NY. Las posiciones que se votan son las siguientes: Posición 1 – Elija un candidato para un período completo de cinco años, un período que comienza el 1 de enero de 2026 hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2030.
Todos los votantes registrados dentro de los límites del Distrito de Bomberos de Center Moriches son elegibles para votar.
Todos los candidatos para el cargo de Comisionado de Bomberos deben presentar sus peticiones firmadas por veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito de Bomberos, ante el Secretario del Distrito de Bomberos de Center Moriches veinte (20) días antes de la Elección del Distrito. En 2025, dicha presentación debe tener lugar el miércoles 19 de noviembre de 2025 o antes, al cierre de las operaciones. Las peticiones se pueden obtener comunicándose con Michael Schlosberg, Secretario del Distrito de Bomberos, 301 Main Street, Center Moriches NY 11934 o llamando al 631-878-0117. L16387- 11/05/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Annual/Special Election of the Middle Island Fire District in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, will be held at the Main Firehouse, 31 Arnold Drive, Middle Island, New York, on December 9, 2025, between the hours of 3:00 o'clock P.M. and 9:00 o'clock P.M., for the purpose of: Electing one Fire Commissioner for a term of five (5) years, commencing January 1, 2026, upon the expiration of the term of Nicholas Paglia, Jr., present incumbent; as well as the following Proposition:
The Board of Fire Commissioners is hereby authorized to dispose of by sale, one (1) 2010 Pierce Sabor 1500/750 Pumper Truck, deemed by the Middle Island Fire District to be surplus and no longer needed pursuant to Town Law Section 176, for the amount no less than $240,000.00 subject to mandatory referendum.
Every candidate for District office must, at the time of this Election, be a resident elector of the Fire District and shall have filed his name with the Secretary of the Fire District at least twenty (20) days prior to the date of the Fire District election. In addition thereto, the Board of Fire Commissioners has provided by resolution that nominations of candidates for Fire District offices be submitted in petition form subscribed by twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District. In 2025 said petition must be filed with the Secretary of the District on or before November 19, 2025. A copy of the official form of the petition may be obtained from Ms. Chrissy Rosenfeld, District Secretary, at 195 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, New York, Monday through Friday during business hours (631-924-3362).
Every elector of the aforesaid Town who shall have resided in the Fire District for a period of thirty (30) days next preceding any election of Fire District officers and who on the date of said election is otherwise qualified to vote and is registered under the provisions of Article 5 of the Election Law shall be qualified to vote for such officers. Please note that only those persons who have registered with the County Board of Elections on or before the 23rd day before the Fire District election day shall be eligible to vote. In 2025, such registration must have taken place on or before November 17, 2025. L16388- 11/05/25
PUBLIC NOTICE
DISTRITO DE BOMBEROS DE MIDDLE ISLAND AVISO DE ELECCIONES ANUAL/ ESPECIALES
Por la presente se notifica que las Elecciones Anuales/ Especiales del Distrito de Bomberos de Middle Island, en el municipio de Brookhaven, condado de Suffolk, Nueva York, se celebrarán en la Estación Principal de Bomberos, ubicada en 31 Arnold Drive, Middle Island, Nueva York, el 9 de diciembre de 2025, entre las 15:00 y las 21:00 horas, con el fin de:
Elección de un Comisionado de Bomberos por un período de cinco (5) años, a partir del 1 de enero de 2026, al término del mandato de Nicholas Paglia, Jr., actual titular; así como la siguiente Proposición:
Por la presente, se autoriza a la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos a disponer mediante venta de un (1) camión de bomberos Pierce Sabor 1500/ 750 del año 2010, considerado por el Distrito de Bomberos de Middle Island como excedente y ya no necesario de conformidad con la Sección 176 de la Ley Municipal, por un monto no inferior a $240,000.00 sujeto a referéndum obligatorio. Todo candidato a un cargo del Distrito debe, al momento de esta Elección, ser elector residente del Distrito de Bomberos y haber registrado su nombre ante la Secretaría del Distrito de Bomberos al menos veinte (20) días antes de la fecha de la elección. Además, la Junta de Comisionados de Bomberos ha dispuesto mediante resolución que las nominaciones de candidatos a cargos del Distrito de Bomberos se presenten en forma de petición firmada por veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito. En 2025, dicha petición deberá presentarse ante la Secretaría del Distrito a más tardar el 19 de noviembre de 2025. Se puede obtener una copia del formulario oficial de la petición comunicándose con la Sra. Chrissy Rosenfeld, Secretaria del Distrito, en 195 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, Nueva York, de lunes a viernes en horario de oficina (631-924-3362).
Todo elector del municipio antes mencionado que haya residido en el Distrito de Bomberos durante un período de treinta (30) días inmediatamente anterior a cualquier elección de funcionarios del Distrito de Bomberos y que en la fecha de dicha elección esté calificado para votar y esté registrado de conformidad con las disposiciones del Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, estará calificado para votar por dichos funcionarios. Tenga en cuenta que solo podrán votar las personas que se hayan inscrito en la Junta Electoral del Condado a más tardar el vigésimo tercer día
anterior a las elecciones del Distrito de Bomberos. En 2025, dicha inscripción deberá haberse realizado a más tardar el 17 de noviembre de 2025. L16389- 11/05/2025
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, 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 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 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
THE FANTASY BASEBALL EXPERIENCE
Is Bryce Harper’s fall real?
By Tom Barton
The rumors surrounding the Philadelphia Phillies potentially trading away superstar Bryce Harper grew so loud that Harper himself felt the need to respond.
Harper addressed the speculation in an interview with The Athletic, saying, “I’ve given my all to Philly from the start. Now there’s trade talk? I made every effort to avoid this. It’s all I heard in D.C. (with the Nationals). I hated it. It makes me feel uncomfortable.”
Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski also weighed in, calling the rumors “completely false” and adding that Harper remains a vital part of the team’s future.
Still, from a fantasy baseball standpoint, it’s worth assessing Harper’s value whether he stays in Philadelphia or
is somehow dealt. Many big names would see their value fluctuate with a trade, but is Harper one of those?
Harper’s name still carries tremendous weight, though his age slightly limits his ceiling. The move from the outfield to first base also affects his fantasy value, but he remains a reliable contributor.
While Harper may no longer be a 35-plus home run threat, he has hit 30 and 27 in the past two seasons. He hasn’t reached 100 RBIs since 2019 or scored 100 runs since his days with the Nationals, but he continues to produce solid numbers. Surprisingly, he’s still running well for a first baseman, stealing double-digit bases in four of the past five years.
Batting average was once Harper’s calling card, though that has declined. Gone are his .300 seasons, and last year’s .261 marked a new low.
Even so, Harper remains
BETTING WITH BARTON
BY TOM BARTON
Entering their Thursday night matchup against the Miami Dolphins, the Baltimore Ravens found themselves in a familiar spot among sports bettors — though far from where they’re used to being in the standings.
The Ravens entered the week with a 2-5 record, sitting only percentage points above the last-place Browns. Still, bettors appear more optimistic than the standings suggest.
Following their win over the Bears this past weekend — achieved without Lamar Jackson — sportsbooks across the country have once again listed the Ravens as the favorites to win the AFC North. The Ravens are currently even money to win the division, with the Steelers at +175 with the shortest odds after them. Far behind them are the Bengals, sitting at 5-to-1 despite holding second place, and the struggling Browns at +3000. It’s hard to argue with the oddsmakers. Despite their record, Baltimore looks like a value play. The Ravens will
get their MVP back with Lamar Jackson returning this week, several key defensive players are healthy again, and the schedule ahead is one of the league’s softest.
After facing the 2-6 Dolphins, the Ravens will have 10 days to prepare for the Vikings, who are starting a rookie quarterback. The same goes for their Week 11 matchup with the Browns. From there, they’ll meet the lastplace Jets and the under-.500 Bengals before hosting the Steelers.
That means Baltimore won’t face a team with a winning record until that Steelers matchup, with their upcoming opponents combining for an abysmal 11-28 record. The Steelers, on the other hand, face two winning teams over the next two weeks (a combined 12-4), plus matchups with the Ravens twice, the Bills, and the Lions.
So, while it may seem like an overreaction to one win, betting on the Ravens right now looks like a smart long play.
a safe, steady fantasy option. Expect around 25 home runs, 70–80 RBIs and runs scored,
10–12 steals, and a batting average that won’t hurt your team. Regardless of where he plays next season, Harper’s fantasy value should remain largely unchanged.
What? The Ravens are favorites... again
Bryce Harper
Jackson and Henry
SPORTS
By Tom Barton
Winning on the road is always difficult but doing it during another team’s homecoming is especially challenging. That’s exactly what Sachem North accomplished this past weekend as they earned a hardfought 24-14 victory over the Longwood Lions.
The homecoming game was a defensive battle early on before Sachem North pulled away in the fourth quarter to upend the Lions. Longwood jumped out to an early lead, energizing the home crowd and taking a 7-0 advantage after the first quarter. Sachem responded before halftime, tying the game at seven in what was a defensive struggle through the first two
LaRocca reaches 2,000 yards in win over Longwood
quarters of play.
Coming out of the half time locker room, Sachem jumped out to a three-point lead, setting up a tense fourth quarter where either team could have taken control. Both offenses then came alive, with Sachem scoring two fourth-quarter touchdowns while Longwood managed just one, sealing the road win for the Flaming Arrows.
Quarterback Luke LaRocca completed 14 of 19 passes for just under 200 yards and two touchdowns while surpassing the 2,000-yard career passing mark. He also added over 50 rushing yards on 10 carries, showcasing his dual-threat ability.
Running back Jake Spera led
the team on the ground with more than 70 rushing yards and a touchdown. Receivers Lucas Bouchard and Gavin Nuzzi each caught touchdown passes, while six different players recorded receptions from LaRocca in a well-balanced offensive effort. With the win, Sachem North improved its record and will return home to face Central Islip in the regular-season finale, looking to close the year on a four-game winning streak. Longwood, meanwhile, will aim to snap a two-game skid when they host Lindenhurst next week.
It was a statement win for Sachem North, proving their resilience and ability to deliver under pressure — even on someone else’s big day.
SWR’s offense explodes before the half
By Tom Barton
Shoreham-Wading River wasted no time getting on the scoreboard early and often this week in their dominant win over Port Jefferson.
The Cats put on a show for their home fans this Halloween night when they exploded for three first-quarter touchdowns and added three more in the second to take a commanding 42-0 halftime lead. Not much was needed after that to secure the victory, cruising to a 49-6 final score.
This was the fourth time this season the Wildcats have scored at least seven touchdowns in a game. They put up 50 points in a loss to Kings Park, also had 52 against Hampton Bays, and
their high-water mark came on opening day when they dropped 60 points on Center
Moriches.
Star quarterback Noah Gregorek was outstanding once again, needing just six completions to throw for three touchdowns. The dual-threat star wasn’t done there — he also ran for over 100 yards and two more scores, finishing the day with five total touchdowns.
Four different players caught touchdown passes, with George Greene leading the way with three receptions and a score. Greene also made a major impact on defense, returning an interception for a touchdown.
Collin Abrams and Gavin Cleary each hauled in one catch for a touchdown, while
Anthony Mullen added a rushing score to cap off the offensive explosion.
In total, six Wildcats carried the ball as Shoreham-Wading River piled up over 200 rushing yards on the day. The balance and efficiency of their offense have made them one of the most dangerous teams in the county heading into the postseason.
Shoreham-Wading River will now look to finish the regular season strong when they travel to Mt. Sinai for a highly anticipated Friday night showdown. A win there would give the Wildcats major momentum heading into playoff play.
Sachem North ends the season streaking
By Tom Barton
It was a cold and windy Halloween night at Fred Fusaro Alumni Stadium, but that didn’t stop Sachem North from extending their season-long winning streak.
Sachem North celebrated Senior Night in style, defeating Central Islip 28-6 and sending their fans home happy after a complete team effort.
With the win, North has now extended their winning streak to four games and improved their overall season record to 6 wins and just two losses, closing the regular season with strong momentum heading into the playoffs.
Jake Spera once again powered the offense, carrying
the ball 15 times for over 100 yards and scoring two touchdowns. His combination of strength and vision kept the chains moving all night. The Thunderbirds’ ground game was relentless, with Tyler Jerome adding 30 rushing yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Luke LaRocca contributed nearly 30 yards on the ground along with a score of his own.
In total, four players combined for nearly 180 rushing yards and all four of the team’s touchdowns. With such dominant play up front, Sachem North didn’t need to rely heavily on the passing game, completing just two of four attempts through the air. Defensively, the Thunder -
birds continued their stellar play, limiting Central Islip to just one score. The defense came up big with an interception, a sack, and a blocked kick, showcasing the kind of complete effort that has defined their recent success.
Sachem North now heads into the postseason on a fourgame roll, having allowed no more than two touchdowns in each of their last three contests. In fact, they’ve held all but one opponent this season to 21 points or fewer — a testament to their toughness, discipline, and determination on both sides of the ball.
The Thunderbirds look ready to make a deep playoff run in Suffolk County.
swrschools | Instagram SWR team
Longwood Central School District | Facebook
Sachem vs Longwood lines.
LaRocca
By Tom Barton
New York Jets’ legendary center and one of the most beloved figures in franchise history, Nick Mangold, passed away this weekend. Mangold passed from complications of a kidney disease he had been dealing with for a while now. He was 41 years old.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” said Jets Chairman Woody Johnson, summing up how many Jets fans and players feel. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a cherished member of our Jets family.”
Earlier this year, Mangold revealed he had been battling chronic kidney disease caused
Jets great Nick Mangold dies at 41
by a genetic defect diagnosed in 2006. “I always knew this day would come,” he wrote in a letter to fans, “but I thought I would have more time.”
Mangold was drafted 29th overall by the Jets in 2006 out of Ohio State and immediately became the anchor of the offensive line. Teaming with left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson, he helped power the Jets to four winning seasons and two AFC Championship Game appearances from 2006 to 2010.
Durable and dominant, Mangold started 171 games for the Jets, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honors. He was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022 alongside Ferguson and
Darrelle Revis and was recently named a semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026.
“Nick was the embodiment of strength and leadership,” said Vice Chairman Christopher Johnson. “His character and humor made him unforgettable.”
Former teammate Bart Scott added, “Nick represented the best of us — professionalism, humility, and inclusion. I’ll miss my friend until we meet again.”
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte.
“On behalf of the entire organization,” Woody Johnson said, “Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet.”
SBU Seawolves celebrate homecoming
By Tom Barton
This weekend, Stony Brook University held its 44th annual Homecoming festival, Wolfstock, as students, alumni, faculty, and staff came together for a spirited celebration. The excitement carried into Saturday’s football game, where the Seawolves defeated Towson University, 27-19, earning their second straight Homecoming victory and fourth win of the season.
The day began with 500 students receiving a Wolfstock T-shirt and thundersticks, which kept the noise high for the 6,700-plus fans in attendance.
Stony Brook jumped out to a 24-3 lead behind running
back Roland Dempster, who had a career day with 181 rushing yards on 40 carries and two touchdowns. Quarterback Quinn Boyd, making his first career start, completed 17 of 29 passes for 176 yards and his first collegiate touchdown — a two-yard strike to Dez Williams. Boyd also rushed five times, adding mobility to the offense. Williams finished with four receptions for 46 yards, while Marqeese Dietz led the receiving corps with six catches for 53 yards. RJ Lamarre added four receptions for 37 yards, and Ikaika Ragsdale chipped in 39 yards on the ground.
Defensively, the Seawolves held Towson to just 263 total yards — only 36 of them rushing. Dyshier Clary anchored
the unit with a sack, three tackles, and a quarterback hurry. Anthony Ferrelli led the team with five tackles and two hurries, while Chalmers and McGoy each added four stops. Sixteen different Seawolves recorded a tackle in the win.
In the kicking game, Michael Mannino converted both field goal attempts (from 22 and 24 yards), and Clayton Taylor averaged 39.5 yards on four punts, pinning two inside the 20. Dietz contributed on special teams as well, totaling 65 punt return yards and 37 kick return yards.
The halftime festivities capped the day’s celebration, with students winning major prizes including free tuition, housing, and cash awards.
Ward Melville gets a shutout in the season finale
By Tom Barton
The Ward Melville Patriots concluded their regular season in dominant fashion, finishing the year with an impressive 7-1 overall record.
The Patriots closed out the regular season schedule with a commanding 35-0 shutout victory over Sachem East. In front of their home crowd the win was a fitting end to a season defined by balance, discipline, and execution on both sides of the ball. Everything clicked for the Patriots in this one, as their defense was flawless and their offense nearly as unstoppable.
Senior linebacker Anthony Fardellone anchored the defensive unit, leading the team with seven tackles and setting the tone early. The defense has been impressive all season. They have now recorded two shutouts in its last four games and has allowed just 20 total points over the past two contests. Overall, Ward Melville’s stingy defense held six of its eight regular-season opponents to two touchdowns or fewer — a key factor behind their success.
On offense, Joe Karpowicz shined with a versatile performance, scoring one touchdown on the ground and another through the air. Star quarter-
back Hudson Philbrick was sharp once again, throwing two touchdown passes to cap an outstanding regular season. Running back Joe Benedetto powered the ground attack, rushing for nearly 180 yards and adding a touchdown of his own.
With the win, Ward Melville now turns its attention to the playoffs, entering as one of the top contenders in Suffolk County Division I. Their combination of defensive toughness and explosive playmaking gives them momentum and confidence heading into the postseason.
As for Sachem East, the loss
marks the end of a challenging stretch, as they dropped three of their final four games to finish with a 3-5 record.
The Patriots, meanwhile, are riding high — determined to turn their strong regular season into a deep playoff run.
Stony Brook Athletics | Facebook
Stony Brook students
@nickmangold | X
Nick Mangold
@afardellone56 | X Anthony Fardellone
By Tom Barton
The Shoreham-Wading River boys’ soccer team ended its regular season the same way it played all year — with another victory.
With a 3-2 win over Glenn, the Wildcats capped off a perfect 15-0 season, earning the Conference Championship and solidifying their place among the most dominant teams in program history.
Senior standout Zach Makarewicz was the hero in this one, scoring the game-winning goal to lift SWR to the title. His clutch performance was the perfect ending to an incredible regular season. The season though was an entire team effort and there were many
Shoreham-Wading River soccer remains perfect
heroes throughout the year.
The Wildcats’ success has been built on a foundation of outstanding defense and goaltending. Throughout the season, Shoreham-Wading River never allowed more than two goals in a game, and they also allowed opponents to score two goals only four times the whole season.
Their defensive dominance was further highlighted by eight shutouts, including a remarkable start to the season in which they held their first five opponents scoreless. It wasn’t until their eleventh game that an opposing team managed to score more than a single goal against this lockdown defense.
Now, as the team prepares for the playoffs, excitement is
building both on and off the field. The SWR social media team celebrated the accomplishment while reminding fans that the mission isn’t over.
“They didn’t just go undefeated — they achieved an incredible 15-0 perfect regular season record!” the team posted. “This historic season is a testament to the skill, grit, and unity of every player and coach. The challenge now begins! As they head into the playoffs, let’s keep the stands packed and the energy electric as they chase that championship title!”
The Wildcats have been perfect so far — and now they’re looking to finish what they started with a championship run.
Hills East win their fifth in a row
By Tom Barton
The Half Hollow Hills East football team continued its impressive surge this week, improving its record to 5-2 overall and extending its winning streak to five straight games. After a slow start to the season, the Thunderbirds have found their rhythm and are now one of the hottest teams in the league.
In their latest victory, this past weekend, Hills East defeated North Babylon 35-21 in a well-rounded performance on both sides of the ball. The defense continued its dominant stretch, holding opponents to 21 points or fewer for the sixth consecutive game. Meanwhile,
the offense showcased its versatility once again, scoring 21 first half points, proving this team can win in multiple ways.
The star of the day was running back Daniel White, who rushed for 125 yards and two touchdowns while also hauling in a 50-yard reception to fill his stat sheet. White has been a model of consistency all season, surpassing the 100-yard rushing mark in all but two games and recording over 90 yards in every contest.
White wasn’t alone in powering the ground game. Jayden Bryan added six carries for more than 100 yards and a touchdown, while Tony Keahey continued his efficiency with over 15 yards per carry. The balanced
Filardi starts for the Orange
rushing attack overwhelmed North Babylon’s defense from start to finish.
Quarterback Vincent Banculli also delivered a strong performance, throwing a touchdown pass while contributing on defense with nine tackles and two forced turnovers. His two-way effort helped seal another key win for the Thunderbirds. With one game left in the regular season, Hills East will look to keep its momentum rolling as it heads to Commack this upcoming weekend. A victory would give the Thunderbirds their sixth straight win and solidify their standing as one of the most dangerous teams heading into the postseason.
By Tom Barton
The Syracuse Orange football team made a major change at quarterback for this Friday night’s game against North Carolina, handing the start to former Half Hollow Hills West standout quarterback Joseph Filardi. Filardi, who was recruited to Syracuse for his lacrosse talent, was suddenly thrust into action for a nationally televised matchup against a Bill Belichick-led defense. This wasn’t just his first start — it was his first time ever seeing the field in a college football game. Cuse head coach Fran Brown declined to name a starter all week before Friday’s contest, ultimately benching previous
quarterback Rickie Collins, due to the QBs ineffectiveness. The Orange have faced uncertainty at the position since Week 4, when starter Steve Angeli suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in a win over Clemson. With Angeli under center, Syracuse boasted one of the top passing offenses in the nation. He led all quarterbacks in passing yards through his four games played.
However, since his injury, Syracuse’s passing attack has ranked among the country’s worst, forcing the team to look for answers. That led to Filardi, the freshman walk-on quarterback from Dix Hills, who may have the potential to rescue what has been a disappointing
season for the Orange.
Filardi is officially committed to join Syracuse’s men’s lacrosse team this spring, but his football talent has quickly drawn attention. Though his debut didn’t go as planned, there is growing interest from the coaching staff in seeing what the young athlete can do with more experience.
At Half Hollow Hills West, Filardi put together an exceptional senior campaign, throwing for 3,115 yards and 43 touchdowns during the 2024 season. His poise, athleticism, and competitive drive could give Syracuse something to build on as the program looks for stability — and perhaps a surprise story — to close out the season.
East Team huddle
Shoreham-Wading River Central School District | Facebook SWR soccer team
SPORTS
By Tom Barton
Port Jefferson senior McKayla Pollard made history last week, setting a new school record and cementing her legacy as one of the greatest athletes in the program’s history.
The volleyball standout recorded her 600th career kill, breaking the previous school record for career kills in Port Jefferson volleyball history. The milestone marked not only an impressive individual achievement but also a moment of pride for her teammates, coaches, and the entire Port Jefferson community.
As a junior, Port Jeff head coach C.J. Hafner quickly recognized Pollard’s extraordinary talent, leadership, and drive.
Port Jeff has a new school record holder
Hafner named her team captain — an honor she continues to hold during her senior season. Known for her relentless work ethic, consistent energy, and ability to lift her teammates on and off the court, Pollard has set the tone for what it means to wear a Royals uniform.
“McKayla brings intensity, positivity, and poise every time she steps on the floor,” Hafner said. “She’s not only an incredible athlete but also an exceptional leader who makes everyone around her better.”
Pollard plans to attend St. Lawrence University next year, where she will continue her academic and athletic career at the collegiate level. Her combination of athletic skill, determination, and character is expected
to make her a valuable addition to the Saints’ volleyball program.
Port Jefferson’s official social media accounts celebrated her record-breaking accomplishment, posting, “McKayla’s incredible achievement is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and passion for the game. Congratulations, McKayla!”
As Pollard finishes her final high school season, her 600 kills and countless contributions to Port Jefferson volleyball will continue to inspire future players — a lasting reminder that hard work and heart truly define a champion.
Port Jefferson Volleyball is a perfect 8-0 in league play this season and are leading their division with a 17-2 overall record.
William Floyd sisters earn All-State honors
By Tom Barton
William Floyd High School juniors Anabel Van Cott and Lydia Van Cott, under the leadership of two-time USTA Coach of the Year Dave Pia, have earned All-State honors after finishing second in the Suffolk County Doubles Tournament. The tournament was held at Smithtown East in the middle of October. As All-State honorees, the talented twin sister duo advanced to the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Girls’ Tennis State Championship finals. The championships will be held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing,
Queens, this week.
At the state tournament, Anabel and Lydia defeated a strong team from Monroe County to advance to the Sweet 16 before falling to a tough opponent from the Ross School. “They had a great run and a great year,” said Coach Pia. “Finishing among the top 16 doubles teams in New York State is quite an accomplishment!”
This marks another impressive milestone for the Van Cott sisters, who have been key contributors to the Colonials’ tennis success under Coach Pia’s guidance for years. Their chemistry, determination, and skill have helped elevate the program to one of Suffolk County’s best.
The NYSPHSAA State Cham-
pionships featured 96 of the best players from across New York competing in singles and doubles brackets. The three-day event began with two rounds of play on day one, followed by quarterfinals, semifinals, and consolations on day two, and concluded with the finals and medal rounds on the last and final day three.
“Starting with over 6,000 NYSPHSAA girls’ varsity players representing more than 400 teams from 10 sections, the 2025 season concludes with a competitive crescendo at the National Tennis Center,” said Chris Horgan, NYSPHSAA Girls Tennis State Coordinator. “It’s a few days of fantastic tennis. Congratulations to all who advanced to this stage.”
Bayport-Blue Point wins their fifth straight title
By Tom Barton
The Bayport-Blue Point Phantoms are champions once again — and this time, they earned their title in thrilling fashion.
Bayport-Blue Point has now captured its fifth consecutive girls’ small school tennis championship, winning the Section XI title in a tight 4-3 decision over top-seeded Ross in Shoreham this past weekend. The Phantoms came into the game ranked number two overall, so this was a battle of the powerhouses.
The eventual victory of one vs. two was sparked by junior Lily Castka and her sheer will to win and her never give up attitude. Castka, facing Ross sophomore Brooke Saracco, found herself down 0-5
before mounting an incredible comeback to take the match and ignite her team’s momentum. Her determined performance set the tone for the Phantoms’ latest championship run.
Castka, who also claimed her first Section XI individual singles title just last week, will now compete in the NYSPHSAA Individual Championships at the USTA National Tennis Center in Queens next week.
While Castka’s heroics stood out, the championship was truly a team effort. Bayport-Blue Point’s fourth doubles pairing of Julie Willems and Phoebe (last name not provided) secured a pivotal win over Ross’s Sofia Arce and Chloe Stone, sealing the overall team victory.
With the championship triumph, Bayport-Blue Point
improved its record to 18-2 on the season and now sets its sights on another challenge — defending its Long Island title. The Phantoms will face Cold Spring Harbor, a familiar opponent they defeated 3-2 last
season to capture the regional crown. For Bayport-Blue Point, this latest win adds another chapter to an already impressive dynasty built on resilience, teamwork, and competitive spirit.
From Castka’s remarkable comeback to the team’s consistent dominance, the Phantoms continue to prove why they are the standard in Suffolk County girls’ tennis — and perhaps all of Long Island.
William Floyd School District | Facebook
Anabel and Lydia Van Cott with Coach Pia.
Port Jefferson School District
McKayla Pollard
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