The South Shore Press is honored and proud to have the author of our weekly History Lessons column, Rich Acritelli, begin a new feature based on his Fog of War and Humanity podcasts, a production of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County.
Rich has been one of Long Island’s most dedicated chroniclers of military service, civic sacrifice, and the people who shaped America’s story. That work was celebrated in fitting fashion recently as Humanity Matters TV marked its 250th podcast episode at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center in Glen Cove. During the ceremony, Acritelli received hmTV’s highest honor: the Outstanding Host Award, recognizing nearly 100 podcasts—more than any
other contributor.
Rich’s accomplishments stretch far beyond the microphone. A Wading River resident, he has spent nearly twenty-five years teaching U.S. History and Government at Rocky Point High School, where he is also a coach, advisor, and founder of several student leadership programs. He is a two-time Teacher of the Year recipient and a multi-year honoree of the New York State Veterans of Foreign Wars for education and citizenship. His academic contributions extend to Suffolk County Community College, where he has served as an adjunct professor for fourteen years, and to the New York Center for Teacher Development, where he designs and instructs graduate-level courses on American history, warfare, 9/11, and
Rich Acritelli, Chronicler of History
the modern classroom.
Acritelli’s perspective is shaped not only by scholarship but by service. He spent nine years in the Army Reserves and the New York Air National Guard as a Staff Sergeant, hauling jet fuel, munitions, and heavy materials along the East Coast while championing physical fitness within his units. That experience underpins his stewardship of the VFW Post 6249 Military Museum in Rocky Point, where he curates an extraordinary collection of artifacts and personal stories that bring America’s military history to life.
Acritelli’s new South Shore Press feature will continue what he does best: elevating the stories of veterans, educators, and everyday Americans whose lives illuminate our shared history.
A new memorial bench installed at Captree State Park now stands as a tribute to Bay Shore Marine Charles Mandell, whose courage in Korea and decades of service to the Masonic community have inspired generations across Long Island. The Suffolk Masonic District dedicated the bench over the weekend to Mandell, a Right Worshipful Mason and highly decorated U.S. Marine veteran.
Mandell served as a private in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, earning two Purple Hearts and carrying shrapnel to this day. He was wounded a third time but refused the Purple Heart because accepting it would have sent him home. “He didn’t want to leave his company,” said District Deputy Grand Master Robert Licata. “That’s the kind of grit he has.”
A respected leader of Babylon Lodge
No. 793, Mandell has mentored “hundreds and hundreds of Masons,” Licata noted, helping shape new members for more than 40 years. The title of Right
Worshipful, one of the highest distinctions in the Grand Lodge, reflects his long record of service and reputation as “the guy you want to emulate.”
The bench was installed at the Captree boat basin, next to the concession stand, where veterans and visitors can see it every day. The location was chosen strategically as part of a countywide suicide-prevention effort. “We want veterans to know they’re not alone,” Licata said. The bench bears the toll-free number for The Battle Within Foundation, a veteran-support network focused on PTSD and crisis intervention. “We still lose 22 veterans a day to suicide. This project is about awareness and hope.” This is the ninth bench placed in Suffolk County by the Masonic War Veterans, funded entirely by brothers of the Suffolk Masonic District. Among those attending was Don Konner, Commander General of the Masonic War Veterans of New York State, and the state’s top Mason, Grand Master Steven Rubin. Honoring Mandell, Licata said, was an easy choice. “He’s salt of the earth,” he said. “A living, breathing hero.”
Robert Chartuk
Rich Acritelli receives Outstanding Host Award from the Holocaust Centers Bernie and Joanne Furshpan.
Charles Clampet
Charles Mandell, seated center on the bench dedicated in his honor.
By The South Shore Press
Well into the 21st century, smoke-belching diesel trains still run across all three rail lines in Suffolk County. This, after years of lectures about greenhouse gases and climate change from the politicians controlling the MTA, the bloated, mismanaged monstrosity that runs the Long Island Rail Road.
The suburbs are treated as the MTA’s cash cow: good enough to milk, never important enough to fix. We pump billions into this bureaucratic behemoth through our taxes, tolls, fares, surcharges, congestion pricing, and the so-called “payroll mobility tax,” all to prop up an agency that won’t electrify the lines in our lifetime.
What do Suffolk commuters
By Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano
As a public official in Suffolk County, I hear every day from commuters who feel like the MTA treats Long Island as its permanent piggy bank. They are right. We send the MTA well over $20 million a year just for Long Island Rail Road station “maintenance,” on top of the taxes, fees, and surcharges that already flow their way. Yet anyone who has stood on the platforms in Medford or Bellport can see the truth: years of neglect, basic repairs ignored, and residents planting flowers just to make their stations look halfway presentable. That is not
Long Island Deserves Better Than the MTA’s Failures
get for their money? Diesel fumes, poor service, crumbling stations, and a drumbeat for more, more, more. Suffolk taxpayers send upwards of $25 million a year to the MTA just for station “maintenance,” yet many stops look like they’ve been abandoned for years.
The new Mastic–Shirley station was a bare-bones insult that left everyone in shock over its $7.5 million price tag padded with hundreds of thousands of dollars in “management fees.”
The MTA set a record with about $1.4 billion in overtime this year, including a foreman who took home more than the LIRR president. It spent millions on fingerprint scanners to stop timecard fraud, then let them sit idle for years while a cheating scandal festered under their noses.
State Comptroller Tom Di-
Napoli’s audits routinely uncover waste, fraud, and abuse — and his recommendations are ignored. His latest round of reviews underscores the continuing dysfunction, concluding that a capital-construction reorganization failed to produce any meaningful gains in service, efficiency, or cost savings for customers.
A 2024 DiNapoli report on the MTA’s “20-Year Needs Assessment” revealed that the agency’s newest plan offered no cost estimates, leaving riders and taxpayers with no way to know how much critical repairs will cost, how they’ll be funded, or what will actually be prioritized.
This amounts to blatant mismanagement, all happening under a board dominated by city-centric appointees of Gov. Hochul who are more than happy to send the bill to
the suburbs. Long Island lawmakers have called for a forensic audit and a fiscal control board to take the checkbook out of the MTA’s
Financial Control Board for the MTA
maintenance; it is contempt for the riders and taxpayers footing the bill.
The pattern repeats itself inside the system. The MTA set a recent record by shelling out nearly $1.4 billion in overtime. One Long Island Rail Road foreman actually took home more than the railroad’s president. That should have set off every alarm in the building. Instead, no one in management was held accountable. Meanwhile, the authority spent tens of millions of dollars on fingerprint scanners and software upgrades to crack down on timecard abuse, then let them sit idle for years. When cost-saving opportunities appear, they are watered down or
reversed — such as the mobile-ticket “fix” that still allows fare evasion while cutting the
time
use the tickets they paid for.
Island.
DiNapoli has audited the MTA repeatedly and found the same thing: waste, fraud, and abuse. He said he can recommend fixes but cannot force the authority to act on them. That is why I support legislation to create a fiscal control board for the MTA — an independent financial watchdog with real power to implement reforms, track every dollar, and demand results. Until someone takes the checkbook away, commuters will keep getting hit with higher fares, congestion pricing, and new fees while the waste continues unchecked. Long Island riders deserve better than to be treated like an endless source of cash for a mismanaged bureaucracy.
Riders, Businesses, Blast MTA Waste and LIRR Neglect
Dear Editor:
Most riders who use the LIRR, advertised as “the busiest commuter railroad in the country,” know that its facilities and service leave much to be desired. The railroad poses so many problems that it is hard to pick a “worst” instance. I used to take, twice weekly, a train at the Mastic-Shirley station. This is one of the busiest stations on the line but is treated as a backwater.
My train ride to the city took two hours. Had I driven, the trip would have taken a little more than an hour. The distance is only about 65 miles.
In general, conductors are reluctant to confront unruly passengers on the trains themselves. You cannot find an on-train police officer.
The Mastic-Shirley trains come and go at inconvenient and infrequent times. The Suffolk County bus does not
coordinate its schedule with that of the LIRR and provides no roofed passenger shelter at this stop. The bus now stops two long blocks away when it should come directly into the station lot.
The station, which has a very large parking lot, is empty between trains. Pools of broken glass mark the sites of the car break-ins and thefts that occur here. Vagrants congregate, panhandling. There are instances of muggings and assaults. As a result, the station is a no-man’sland between trains, largely empty. Passengers do not—and should not—linger. Basically, LIRR management does not seem to be accountable to the local public for the way it runs this railroad. Long
Island deserves a safe, reliable, fast, well-functioning train system to stimulate industry and serve its large population.
Kathryn
Nocerino, New York
Dear Editor:
As a Long Island business owner, I am appalled at the many ways the Metropolitan Transportation Authority socks it to the taxpayers. Most people don’t know this, but the state leaders have allowed this mammoth bureaucracy to pick our pockets in all kinds of ways.
For starters, if you drive into parts of Manhattan, there’s congestion pricing, and if you own a business, there’s the payroll tax. The more jobs you cre-
ate, the more you pay. The MTA has its greedy fingers in the sales tax and various use taxes. There are petroleum business taxes, corporate franchise taxes, and auto-rental surcharges. Wonder why housing costs are so high? These thieves take a piece of the Mortgage Recording Tax and the Real Estate Transfer Taxes.
New York State provides major taxpayer funding, and Nassau and Suffolk counties also pay mandatory subsidies for station maintenance, paratransit requirements, and a share of debt-service contributions. Paying for the MTA’s debt consumes about $3 billion per year. Gov. Hochul and the powers that be in Albany let this abuse continue year after year. They should be turfed out on this alone.
hands. They’re right. Only a wellaimed stake to the heart of the MTA vampire will finally end this nightmare for Long
riders have to
State Comptroller Tom
State Assembly
Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano
Robert Chartuk
The $7.5 million Mastic-Shirley Station.
Ryan Hellmann, Port Jefferson Station
LOCAL DeStefano Ends Remarkable Run as Medford Fire Commissioner
By Robert Chartuk
After three decades of steady leadership, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano is concluding a distinguished tenure as a Medford Fire Commissioner, a period marked by major capital improvements, modernized equipment, and a lasting commitment to strengthening the fire district and its volunteers.
DeStefano entered the fire service at age 19 and went on to serve five terms as chairman of the board. During his tenure, the district undertook some of its most significant infrastructure projects, including the construction of a new main firehouse and the complete renovation of its
two satellite stations.
Updating the district’s fleet was another priority. “We brought the equipment up to date,” DeStefano said, noting the purchase of several new apparatus and the expansion of key benefits such as Length of Service Awards and enhanced insurance programs, measures designed to help attract and retain volunteers at a time when recruitment has become increasingly difficult.
His leadership earned recognition across Suffolk County and the state. DeStefano was named Suffolk County Commissioner of the Year, served as secretary-treasurer of the New York State Fire District Officers Association, and has spent 25 years as treasurer of the Suffolk County Fire Districts.
He also served as president of the Brookhaven Town Fire Districts, further solidifying his influence within the region’s fire service community.
Beyond administrative achievements, DeStefano has responded to emergencies as a volunteer for more than four decades. His experience ranges from the 1995 Pine Barrens wildfire to Superstorm Sandy, along with countless residential fires and serious accidents. He also served as director of the Medford Ambulance Company from 1990–91.
DeStefano decided not to seek another term so he can dedicate his full attention to his work in the State Assembly. “I’m committed to my assembly job,” he said. “With reelection next year, I
Supply Drive for Homeless Veterans Underway
By Michael J. Reistetter
Spearheaded by Legislator Chad Lennon, Suffolk County officials, law enforcement representatives, and representatives from veterans’ advocacy organizations such as Paws of War gathered this week to announce the launch of the 2026 Veterans Supply Drive.
Lennon, a United States Marine Corps veteran and Vice Chair of the Legislature’s Veterans Committee, said the partnership reflects the county’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who served.
“We will continue to work together in this county,” he said. “The partnership of my office with the County Clerk and PBA to support General Needs is another example of how we work together in this County to support our Veteran community.”
The drive will specifically focus on collecting new socks, underwear, and T-shirts— items often overlooked but urgently needed by veterans experiencing homelessness. Donations will be delivered to General Needs, a nonprofit that packs these essentials into duffle bags and distributes them directly to veterans.
“When I started General Needs 18 years ago, I was actually called ‘the underwear man,’” said General Needs founder Lonnie Sherman. “Veterans should not have to go without underwear… nothing happens unless you have a pair of underwear.”
Collection sites include all
want to dedicate my full time and energy to that.”
firefighter and
A Snowy Winter?
By Scott A. Mandia
I keep hearing people claim that “this was going to be a very snowy winter season.” I found it odd, because we are in a weak La Niña phase, which—other factors being equal—usually means less snow. Then I realized what was happening: after five years with very little snowfall, even a normal winter will feel like a big one. Here is an AI summary of the current seasonal forecasts:
Average Snowfall: Long Island’s average is about 30 inches, a mark the region hasn’t hit since the 2020–2021 season.
Suffolk County police precincts, as well as Lennon’s district office in Rocky Point and County Clerk Vincent Puleo’s office in Riverhead.
Suffolk County PBA President Lou Civello emphasized the importance of addressing the basic needs of local veterans. “We’re very happy to help get the ball rolling with these donations from the PBA, but we know that we shouldn’t have to. We know that we should do a better job taking care of our veterans,” he said.“It says something about our society, when our Veter -
ans—the people that, without which, we would not have a country—don’t have the basic necessities… Veterans are not asking for the latest iPhone or app; they’re asking for things that nobody should be without, no less the people that defended our country.”
“Their [General Needs’] volunteers bring more than necessities to those in need,” said County Clerk Vincent Puleo. “They bring dignity, steadiness, and the reassurance that this community stands firmly beside those who once stood for us.”
National Weather Service (NWS) Outlook: The NWS Climate Prediction Center gives nearly even odds of a warm, quiet winter versus a cold, stormy one. It forecasts a 33%–40% chance of slightly above-average temperatures and equal chances for below-, near-, or above-average precipitation.
La Niña Factor: This winter will be influenced by a weak La Niña pattern. Historically, La Niña winters are highly variable, producing anywhere from nearly 40 inches of snow (2017–2018) to a record low of 2.5 inches (2022–2023). The NWS generally expects nearto slightly below-normal snowfall in these setups.
Local Meteorologist Predictions Are Split:
• Fox 5’s Nick Gregory predicts 15–20 inches.
• NY Metro Weather’s John Homenuk predicts 25–32 inches.
• ABC’s Alan Nosoff predicts 25–35 inches.
All expect above-average temperatures overall, with a few cold spells likely after Thanksgiving.
Uncertainty: A potential Sudden Stratospheric Warming event in early December could push cold Arctic air south, but meteorologists say it’s impossible to know exactly where that cold will land, adding to the season’s uncertainty.
I hope we continue with little to no snow—it makes my job easier.
Longtime
former chief Kevin Hoffman is running unopposed to succeed him.
Office of Joe DeStefano
Joe DeStefano
Guest Essay by Scott A. Mandia, Suffolk County Community College Professor of Physical Sciences
Professor Scott A. Mandia
Suffolk County Legislature Suffolk County Legislator and USMC Vet Chad Lennon (at podium), was joined in Brentwood by SCPBA President Lou Civello, County Clerk Vincent Puleo, and General Needs founder Lonnie Sherman to launch a Veterans Supply Drive.
By Robert Chartuk
Local Officers Honored by Jets After Saving Man’s Life
A lifesaving response at a senior picnic earlier this year led three law enforcement officers from the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office to the 50-yard line at MetLife Stadium, where they were honored during the New York Jets’ First Responder Appreciation Game.
Deputy Sheriff Dylan Hever and Correction Officers Sean Higgins and Travis Yacovone were among the regional firefighters, EMS providers, police officers, military members, and public safety personnel recognized in a field-wide tribute. Joined by their spouses and children, the three helped carry an enormous American flag during the national anthem as thousands of fans looked on.
Their invitation stemmed from the officers’ heroic actions on September 3, when 73-year-old Lenny Muzzillo collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest at a Brookhaven Town-sponsored picnic. The trio immediately began CPR, taking turns maintaining chest compressions for several minutes until a defibrillator was brought to the scene. Their persistence kept Muzzillo alive long enough to undergo emergency quadruple-bypass surgery. He returned home just days later.
For the officers, the Jets recognition was both humbling and symbolic. “To be out there with so many others who do this work every day — that’s what made it special,” Officer Yacovone said. “And having our families with us is something
we’ll never forget.”
As the flag stretched across the field, the stadium erupted in applause — a salute to all branches of emergency service. The trio said they were proud simply to stand alongside their fellow first responders.
Jets Military and First Responder Liaison Steven Castleton praised the Suffolk officers: “These men exemplified what
first responders truly are. They were in the right place at the right time and refused to give up on Lenny.”
Also during the game, Castleton joined Tunnel to Towers and the Jets in surprising U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Noah Currier with the keys to a custom-built, mortgage-free smart home — another highlight of a day dedicated to service and sacrifice.
South Shore Charter School:
A Journey of Success
By Robert Chartuk
Tucked within the bustle of Central Islip is a treasure of hope for a brighter future: the South Shore Charter School. The modest building along Carleton Avenue houses a vibrant elementary program built on high expectations, academic excellence, and strong character development.
A tuition-free public charter school, South Shore currently serves K–5 scholars at its flagship campus, with plans to expand through 12th grade. The school was founded to give families a true choice in high-quality education, offering a safe and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. With many families seeking alternatives that help children reach their full potential now—not years from now— South Shore delivers an educational model grounded in excellence.
The school’s founder, Mr. Dermoth Mattison, brings nearly 20 years of experience in school administration, including leadership in a nationally acclaimed public charter school. His passion for community investment and educational opportunity guides the school’s mission. A humble leader, Mr. Mattison consistently shifts praise to his faculty and students.
Under Mattison’s leadership, 99% of South Shore scholars have met or exceeded their annual growth goals in reading and math on the NWEA MAP assessment—a remarkable achievement for a young
school. Before founding South Shore, he served as principal of a school widely recognized for outperforming its local district and fostering strong student development.
South Shore’s success is not the work of one person but the result of a dedicated team committed to creating a culture of long-term achievement. The faculty’s passion for teaching and student growth forms the foundation of the South Shore family. The school’s core values—Integrity, Grit, Resilience, Excellence, Accountability, and
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Tenacity—shape daily life and give every student and staff member the confidence to say, “I am GREAT.”
South Shore Charter School proudly embraces its role as a place where greatness is nurtured, future leaders are developed, innovation begins, and creativity thrives. For the families of Central Islip and the surrounding community, the school stands as a lasting beacon of opportunity—a lighthouse illuminating the path toward a promising future for every child it serves.
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Robert Chartuk, Howard Roark, Stefan Mychajliw, Tom Barton, Nancy Burner, Fredrick Miller, Rich Acritelli, Michael J. Reistetter, Tara D’Amato
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Steve Castleton
At the Jets game are lifesavers, from left, Travis Yacovone, Sean Higgins, and Dylan Hever.
South Shore Charter School
Students at the South Shore Charter School.
LOCAL
By Michael J. Reistetter
Monday began with a bang for Patchogue residents, as resident Scott Letizia, 42, plowed through a busy South Ocean Avenue intersection in his 2017 Honda Accord, past a bus, offroad and straight into a thankfully vacant storefront and an additional neighboring business.
According to Suffolk County Police, the driver was in critical condition at NYU Langone Hospital—Suffolk until it was confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 2nd. This was the sole injury and fatality in an incident that’s unsettling surveillance footage has been making the rounds on social media.
Per the investigation, the vehicle sped southbound through Main Street at alarmingly high
Speeding Driver Pummels through Patchogue Storefronts
speeds. Its mad dash past another vehicle at the cross-section and the aforementioned Suffolk County Transit bus—both of which narrowly averted the crisis—occurred at approximately 5:37 a.m.
Witnesses estimate the vehicle was roaring at velocities near 100 mph, given the fallout.
Letizia’s travel came to a slamming halt—save for a torn-off roof that went forcibly flying off the vehicle—within the now-fractured walls of an already out-of-commission 14 South Ocean Avenue.
After nearly a century of service to the community, the former Richard York shoe business storefront closed—remaining in an essentially demolished state for over a year before it saw unforeseen action of a different kind once more to commence
the week.
Meanwhile, the adjacent Dragon Palace Chinese cuisine restaurant sustained additional damage.
This block was sealed off with yellow caution police tape into the evening as emergency crews picked up the pieces of the scene and officers worked to piece them together.
The investigation is still ongoing. What caused the late Letizia’s erraticness behind the wheel remains to be seen. After his death, members of the community remembered the 42-year-old for his volunteer work.
Beware and be cautious out on the roads. Unfortunately, with the calendar turnover to wintertime holiday tidings also comes the indiscriminate venom of slippery roads at all hours.
dent that is unsettling. Surveillance footage (pictured) has been making the rounds on social media.
Firefighters Issue Christmas Tree Safety Tips
By Robert Chartuk
As residents begin trimming trees and stringing lights, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is issuing a sharp reminder: a Christmas tree can turn from festive centerpiece to tragic fire in a matter of seconds.
Fresh-cut Christmas trees pose the greatest danger, officials say, because they dry out quickly and become highly flammable. Keeping a tree hydrated is the most effective way to reduce risk. Faulty lights, overloaded outlets, and frayed extension cords also remain among the top holiday fire hazards.
Artificial trees are not immune—open flames, scented candles, menorahs, and nearby
heat sources can ignite plastic branches just as easily as dry pine needles.
“As we start to celebrate the holidays, we want to remind New Yorkers to make safety a top priority,” said Eugene Perry, president of FASNY in an announcement alongside County Executive Ed Romaine, Legislator Dominick Thorne, and local fire officials. “Spend a few extra minutes taking smart steps to protect your homes, inspect your Christmas trees and holiday decorations to prevent tragedy during what should be a joyful time.”
FASNY urges families to take simple, preventative steps to help make their holiday safer: cut two inches from the base of a fresh tree before placing it in the stand, add water daily, keep trees at least three feet
from any heat source, ensure they don’t block exits, and use only well-maintained lights and decorations.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) data underscores the risk. Half of all Christmas tree fires occur between 3 p.m. and midnight, with most starting in living rooms or dens. Electrical failures account for more than a third of incidents, while one in five fires begin when a heat source is placed too close to the tree.
New York State has recorded 107 home fire deaths so far in 2025, placing it among the highest in the nation, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. “Let’s keep this number from going any higher,” Romaine said.
Enhanced Enforcement for Illegal Parking En Route
By Michael J. Reistetter
Courtesy of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies will once again undertake enhanced enforcement aimed expressly at motorists’ illegal parking in spaces reserved for people with disabilities during the holiday season.
Announced on Tuesday, December 2, the Sheriff’s Office put the order into immediate effect. The enforcement will extend through New Year’s Day.
As such, Deputy Sheriffs across the county will be directing additional enforcement efforts to curb illegal use of handicapped parking spots throughout Suffolk County. Parking in these specially
marked spots without proper permits is a violation of Sections 1203-b and 1203-c of the Vehicle and Traffic Law.
If caught, violators are subject to fines of $160 or more.
“The goal of this enforcement is to deter the unlawful use of these parking spaces, particularly during the busy holiday shopping season,” said Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. “Illegally parking in these designated spots adds unnecessary hardship for Suffolk County residents who truly need them.”
Whether to eschew long treks throughout a busy shopping center for an expectedly lengthy visit, or merely to be in and out in minutes for a quick stop, let Sheriff Toulon’s cautions serve as enough of a
warning: the risk is not worth the squeeze.
Moreover, to deny easy access and mobility to those who desperately need it runs counter to the spirit of the holidays we’re all out and about preparing for. It is not a mandate to go out of your way to assist the disabled — but to go out of your way to provide a disservice to them is grounds for naughty-list classification. Avoid that undesirable void by thinking twice before you illegally park. The Sheriff’s Department — and all local law enforcement agencies — are not working to criminalize you; they’re working to keep everyone safe.
Do your part by doing the same.
Melissa Weir
A Christmas tree goes up in seconds during the FASNY demonstration.
SCPD
According to Suffolk County Police, the driver is still in critical condition at NYU Langone Hospital—Suffolk and was the sole injury in an inci-
Grok and Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office
“The goal of this enforcement is to deter the unlawful use of these parking spaces, particularly during the busy holiday shopping season,” said Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr.
SANTOS UNCENSORED BY GEORGE SANTOS
New York has always been a place of grit, opportunity, and bold ambition—a state where families came to build a better life and where the American Dream was not just a slogan but a way of life. But over the last several years, that promise has dimmed, worn down by the failures and political cowardice of Governor Kathy Hochul. Under her watch, New York has slipped into a state of decline so sharp and so obvious that even lifelong Democrats now whisper the same thing Republicans have been shouting: This is not the New York we grew up in. This is not the New York we deserve. And this is not a New York we can survive much longer if something does not change. That change begins with Elise Stefanik. Let us speak plainly—something Hochul rarely does without first checking which way the political winds are blowing. New Yorkers do not feel safe anymore. They do not feel secure on the subway, at the gas station, walking home from work, or even stepping outside their front door at
night. Crime is not a partisan talking point; it is an everyday fear for millions who once lived with the confidence that their government cared about protecting them. Instead of reversing the disastrous bail laws and confronting the reality of rising violence, Hochul offers soft words, weak gestures, and excuses. She treats public safety like a political inconvenience instead of the life-ordeath issue it is. New York’s police officers feel abandoned, the residents feel forgotten, and criminals feel empowered. That alone should disqualify her from the job.
But the damage of the Hochul era does not stop at the city limits. The migrant crisis has pushed New York City and surrounding communities to the breaking point.
A humanitarian emergency exploded into a fiscal nightmare because Hochul refused to stand up to Washington, refused to demand accountability, and refused to protect the taxpayers footing the bill. She chose political alignment over leadership. New Yorkers never
Hochul’s New York: Crime, Chaos, Decline
voted to turn their neighborhoods into makeshift intake centers, yet that is what they are getting—without transparency, without oversight, and without a governor willing to defend them. It is a betrayal of trust, and people feel it deeply.
Then there is the cost of living. The taxes. The regulations. The suffocating government overreach. Under Hochul, New York has perfected the art of pushing out its own citizens. Families with deep roots here are giving up and heading to states that value their work, respect their freedoms, and will not punish them for trying to raise a family or run a business. You cannot blame them. When your governor responds to economic distress by proposing more spending and more taxes, the writing on the wall becomes impossible to ignore. A state cannot thrive while its best and brightest are packing their bags.
This is where Elise Stefanik enters—not as a political alternative but as a lifeline. She represents the strength,
fearlessness, and unapologetic conviction that New York has been starved of under Hochul. Elise understands the pain of the middle-class mom trying to afford groceries, the farmer burdened by pointless regulations, the small-business owner drowning in state mandates, and the commuter who simply wants to feel safe coming home. She speaks for the forgotten New Yorker—the one Albany stopped listening to long ago. And unlike Hochul, she has never hesitated to support law enforcement, stand with parents, hold the federal government accountable, or fight for policies that actually make life better rather than appease the loudest activists. Elise Stefanik is tough. She is prepared. And she is unafraid to call out the failures that have dragged this state into chaos. Her loyalty to the America First movement is not a liability; it is exactly what New York needs to break free from the cycle of mismanagement and political weakness that the Democratic machine has normalized. She will not
bow to special interests, and she will not govern based on fear of what the far left might say about her. She will govern based on what New Yorkers need and deserve.
New York is at a crossroads. We can continue down Hochul’s path—a path of crime, decline, exodus, and excuses—or we can choose a governor who believes in the power, potential, and promise of this state. Elise Stefanik is the leader with the backbone to turn the tide, restore public safety, revive the economy, and bring common sense back to Albany. She understands that New York’s greatest days are not behind us; they are waiting to be reclaimed.
It is time we stop settling for leadership that merely survives the job and start demanding leadership that fights for the people. Kathy Hochul has had her chance, and she has failed. Elise Stefanik deserves the next one—not for her sake but for ours. New York is ready for a comeback, and Elise is the fighter who can make it happen.
Talking History Showcases William Floyd Estate
By Robert Chartuk
The historic William Floyd Estate in Mastic Beach, home of Suffolk County’s only signer of the Declaration of Independence, served as the backdrop for the latest episode of Talking History with Town Clerk Kevin LaValle. The episode explores the life, legacy, and enduring national significance of William Floyd, whose contributions continue to shape the identity of the Tri-Hamlet community and the Town of Brookhaven.
LaValle visited the estate alongside Supervisor Dan Panico, Councilwoman Karen Dunne
Kesnig, Legislator Jim Mazzarella, Town Historian Barbara Russell, and National Park Service staff member Elizabeth DeMaria as they filmed the new installment of the ongoing history series.
LaValle said he is particularly proud that the episode will debut on a meaningful date. “I’m especially excited for this episode to be released on Wednesday, December 17th, William Floyd’s birthday,” he said. “Thanks to Legislator Jim Mazzarella, who recognized Floyd’s enduring significance, this date is now officially celebrated as William Floyd Day throughout Suffolk County. Stay tuned for this
episode!”
Though Floyd’s name is widely recognized through landmarks such as William Floyd Parkway and the William Floyd School District, many residents are unaware of his singular historical distinction. As the only Suffolk County signer of the Declaration of Independence, Floyd provides a direct link between Brookhaven and the founding of the nation.
Supervisor Panico called the estate “a powerful reminder of Brookhaven’s place in American history,” adding that Floyd’s service and sacrifice remain especially meaningful as the nation ap-
proaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration.
Councilwoman Dunne Kesnig said the Tri-Hamlet community “takes great pride in William Floyd, one of our nation’s Founding Fathers,” while Legislator Mazzarella noted that the new William Floyd Day designation ensures that future generations will continue to learn from his legacy.
The episode will premiere December 17 on Channel 18, BrookhavenNY.gov/TalkingHistory, and the Town Clerk’s social media pages. For more information, call 631-451-9101.
Everybody Loves the Everybody Loves Raymond Exhibit
By Michael J. Reistetter
“This is a super surreal moment in my life. This is the closest I come to time travel to be here in this museum exhibit,” said Ray Romano on November 25th. “The job they’ve done is unbelievable.”
The comedian was on the scene in Stony Brook for a VIP preview of the exciting “Everybody Loves Raymond” exhibit that opened shortly thereafter at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF).
Replacing the beloved Billy Joel exhibit, the walk-through “Ray-
mond” extravaganza will run for at least a year. Those delighted by the healthy dose of nostalgia provided by Paramount Plus’ 30th-anniversary special, which premiered on November 24th, will notice it repurposes the 70-foot stage set from the iconic 1996–2005 sitcom.
The CBS hit covered the life of a native Long Island sportswriter (Romano) and the weekly shenanigans he gets into with his wife (Patricia Heaton), brother (Brad Garrett), his parents (the late Peter Boyle and Doris Roberts), and his children (Madylin Sweeten, Sullivan Sweeten, and the late Sawyer
Sweeten).
Romano co-created the show with Phil Rosenthal, who recalled during the special that many of the memorable storylines were based on the writers regularly responding in earnest to one simple prompt every Monday: “So, who got into a fight with their wife last week?”
Weaving the raucousness of real-life marital conflict into the series led to it standing the test of time and resonating with far more generations than even the “Raymond” crew probably set out to entertain at the onset.
ence of his flagship program. After “Raymond,” he developed a palpable second act as a character actor in the crime-comedy genre. If you loved him in “The Irishman”, check out “Get Shorty” – the TV show, not the movie. Ray at his finest.
As for Raymond, he shall remain immortalized in exhibit form for the time being. Presented by Catholic Health and designed by LIMEHOF’s creative director Kevin O’Callaghan, you’ll never feel more at home than during the acutely dreamlike experience of walking through casa de Barone.
As for the real Romano, his legacy did not stop at the influ-
LIMEHOF
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine with Ray Romano ahead of the opening of the Everybody Loves Raymond exhibit in Stony Brook.
Town of Brookhaven
Visitors to the Floyd Estate, from left, Town Historian Barbara Russell, Legislator Jim Mazzarella, Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, Clerk Kevin LaValle, Supervisor Dan Panico, and Park Service staffer Elizabeth DeMaria.
LOCAL
By Robert Chartuk
Students at Clayton Huey Elementary School immersed themselves in the traditions and teachings of one of Long Island’s most historic Native American communities during a recent cultural program.
The event, part of the school’s ongoing effort to deepen understanding of local heritage, featured a vibrant performance by members of the Unkechaug Nation, whose ancestral lands include the Poospatuck Reservation in Mastic.
The visiting Unkechaug presenters shared traditional songs, dances, and stories, offering students a rare opportunity to learn directly from tribal members about customs that have been passed down through
Students Celebrate Indigenous Culture with Unkechaug Nation
generations. Drums echoed through the school auditorium as students watched ceremonial dances and listened to explanations of the cultural meaning behind each performance.
Teachers said the presentation helped bring history to life in a way no textbook could match.
The experience was made even more meaningful through the hands-on projects students completed in the weeks leading up to the visit. Fourth-grade classes researched traditional indigenous homes and then constructed detailed models of longhouses and wigwams using natural materials such as twigs, bark, reeds, and clay, along with classroom crafting supplies.
The models showcased both historical accuracy and creative expression, reflecting the
students’ growing appreciation for indigenous innovation and resourcefulness.
Educators said the interdisciplinary project not only enriched the cultural program but also strengthened skills in research, problem-solving, and teamwork. Displayed alongside the Unkechaug presentation, the student-built longhouses and wigwams offered a powerful visual connection to the lessons shared by tribal members.
“We are honored to welcome members of the Unkechaug Nation to our school,” said Dr. Nicole Fernandez, principal of Clayton Huey Elementary School. “Experiences like this help our students build meaningful connections to the history and cultures that shape our region.”
School officials say the program is part of a broader effort to ensure that students understand and respect the
diverse cultures that contribute to the identity of the Moriches community and Long Island as a whole.
ESM Students Learn to Think Like an Archeologist
By Robert Chartuk
Students at Eastport-South Manor Jr.-Sr. High School recently received a hands-on lesson in how archeologists uncover—and protect—the stories of the past. During a special assembly with Brookhaven National Laboratory archeologist Dr. Allison McGovern, students discovered that the field is far more complex than simply digging for artifacts.
Dr. McGovern, whose work blends archaeology, history, and community collaboration, introduced students to the many components that make up professional archeology. She discussed cultural preservation, historical research, survey techniques, excavation methods, and the legal frameworks that govern work at protected sites. Her message underscored a cen-
tral truth: archeology is not only scientific, but deeply ethical.
“Archeology can be a destruc-
tive and expensive process,”
Dr. McGovern cautioned. She emphasized that careful preservation—whenever possible—is often more responsible, cost-effective, and sustainable than excavation. By protecting sites in place, communities safeguard cultural resources for future generations.
The presentation also connected students to Long Island’s own hidden history. Dr. McGovern highlighted several important regional sites where researchers have uncovered clues to earlier communities and long-forgotten stories. Among them were Spy Coast Farm in Setauket, the Crippen House in Huntington, and the Betsy Prince site in Rocky Point, each yielding artifacts that help
illuminate centuries of human activity across the island.
Students also learned how archeological methods reveal evidence of ancient civilizations and the cultural exchanges that shaped them. From soil analysis to mapping techniques and archival research, Dr. McGovern demonstrated how social scientists weave together physical evidence and historical records to reconstruct events and understand the daily lives of past societies. By the end of the assembly, students gained a deeper appreciation for how archeologists think, work, and interpret the world. The experience offered a meaningful look at how the past is studied—and why preserving it matters.
Presenting: South Country’s Peer Elective Program, NHSers
By Michael J. Reistetter
Peer-based elective programs are imminent at South Country Central School District, according to the district. This signals a commitment to broadening inclusive learning — bringing students of all abilities together in meaningful, collaborative classroom settings.
South Country’s Peer Elective Program has quickly become a hallmark of the district’s inclusive culture. The initiative began as a proposal from Jessica Prush, assistant director of Student Support Services, who introduced the idea during annual planning discussions for students in the district’s 12:1:2 and 12:1:4 programs. Her concept led to the creation of peer-based elective courses that integrate special education
and general education students, reshaping classroom dynamics and expanding opportunities for shared learning experiences.
“This program has changed the climate of our building,” said Heather Giacomin, Assistant Principal at Bellport High School. “It goes beyond academics; it’s about building friendships and creating new opportunities for social interaction and inclusion.”
Currently, the district offers peer electives in Introduction to Culinary Arts, Global and Gourmet Foods, Studio in Art and Studio in Art A, with plans to broaden the selection in the coming years.
Administrators say the results speak for themselves: students are forming new connections, gaining confidence, and learning to collaborate in ways that enrich
the entire school community.
District leaders emphasize that the program shows how inclusive education can strengthen school culture and create meaningful experiences for all students. Through creativity, collaboration, and shared commitment, they believe South Country is helping students of all abilities learn and thrive together.
In addition to advancements in inclusive programming, Bellport High School recently celebrated a major academic milestone. Eighty-nine students were inducted into the National Honor Society during a candle-lighting ceremony held in the high school’s newly renovated auditorium. To qualify, students were required to maintain a GPA of 90 or higher, demonstrate leadership, service, citizenship, and
character, and complete six hours of community service.
The district publicized its commendation of all 89 inductees, representing sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Their
achievement highlights academic excellence across grade levels, underscoring the district’s commitment to both rigorous academics and inclusive learning opportunities.
Eastport-South Manor
Eastport-South Manor Jr.-Sr. High School’s Long Island History course students with (l-r) District Director of K-12 Social Studies Dr. Stephen Posselt, BNL Archeologist Dr. Allison McGovern and, right, teacher Rob Fleming.
Kelsie Radziski
The Unkechaug Nation visited Clayton Huey Elementary School for a presentation on cultural songs, dances, and traditions.
South Country Central School District
Eighty-Nine sophomores, juniors and seniors in South Country Central SchooL District were inducted into the National Honor Society this week.
LOCAL
By Robert Chartuk
The holidays have officially arrived, and there’s no shortage of places to soak in the season. From sparkling light displays to menorah celebrations and festive hometown parades, families can find something merry around every corner.
Center Moriches Holiday Tree Lighting
Date: December 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Location: King Kullen Shopping Center
The Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches kicks off the season with a tree lighting spectacle on Main Street.
Parade of Lights
Date: December 13 at 6 p.m.
Location: Main Street, Center
By Michael J. Reistetter
Moriches
Holiday Happenings Light Up the Season
The Center Moriches Fire Department brings holiday spirit to the South Shore with its annual Parade of Lights, featuring fire trucks and community vehicles decorated with glowing displays. The parade is coordinated with support from the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches.
Girl Scouts Of Suffolk County Holiday Light Show Dates: Thursdays–Sundays through Dec. 21
This wooded, walk-through light trail remains one of Suffolk’s most charming holiday outings. Visitors can follow illuminated paths, meet Santa, and enjoy photo stations
tucked among the displays. It’s a quieter, more intimate holiday experience for families who enjoy exploring on foot.
The Town’s popular indoor walk-through display transforms the Ecology Site into a glowing maze of color, characters, and holiday scenes. Families can take photos with Santa, explore themed rooms, and enjoy a warm, festive atmosphere that appeals to all ages.
Menorah Lighting— Brookhaven Town Hall
Date: Monday, Dec. 15
Location: One Independence
Hill, Farmingville Brookhaven will celebrate the Festival of Lights with its annual public menorah lighting. Community leaders and local families gather for blessings, music, and a welcoming reminder of the season’s spirit of unity. Light refreshments are typically available, making it a warm stop on a cold December evening. Riverhead Holiday Light Show—Calverton Dates: Nightly through Dec. 31
Location: Splish Splash water park
One of Suffolk’s largest drivethrough displays, the Riverhead show features towering animated structures, themed sections, and synchronized music.
Students Collect Holiday Food Donations
Students across the Eastport-South Manor Central School District ushered in the holiday season with a series of food drives and charitable initiatives aimed at supporting families in need.
From elementary hallways to the Jr.-Sr. High School, the spirit of giving was on full display as classrooms, clubs, and community groups rallied to collect thousands of items ahead of Thanksgiving.
At the Jr.-Sr. High School, members of the National Honor Society and Junior Honor Society partnered with the Lion’s Heart service group to
donate to Long Island Cares’ Harry Chapin Food Bank. In early November, students
stationed themselves outside the King Kullen grocery stores in Manorville, Eastport, and
Center Moriches, gathering nonperishable goods from local shoppers. Their efforts helped stock food banks preparing for increased demand heading into the holiday season.
Advisors said the hands-on service project not only supported families, but also helped students understand the impact of community engagement.
At Dayton Avenue Elementary School, the annual Turkey Trot Food Drive once again drew enthusiastic participation from students, staff, and faculty. Children arrived with bags filled with cans, boxes and other pantry staples, all destined for the local Presbyterian Church Food Pantry.
The event served as both
a charitable mission and a teaching moment, reinforcing the values of generosity and gratitude. Sixth grade volunteers assisted in delivering the donations, proudly helping transport the items that their school community had worked so hard to collect.
Across the district, the coordinated efforts reflected a shared commitment to supporting neighbors during a joyous time that can be rather difficult for many.
As one district summary noted, “With grateful hearts and generous hands, the district’s students made a meaningful difference for families in need this Thanksgiving season.”
Free Online Video Learning—Get Job, Small Business Skills
By Robert Chartuk
Want to learn a skill like digital music recording or Photoshop? How about improving your job skills with a training certificate in CAD design, network security, or project management? What if you could access all these classes for free, at home, any time you wanted?
The Mastics Moriches Shirley Community Library offers an outstanding online learning platform called Lynda.com. Just visit www.communitylibrary. org/learning and select Lynda. com to log in with your library barcode. This service is available at no cost to library cardholders thanks to the library’s licensing agreement. Normally, this would cost
$20–$30 per month, according to Tara D’Amato, Assistant Library Director. And unlike casual YouTube tutorials, these courses are professionally designed and taught by experienced instructors—not by someone filming in their basement.
The Lynda.com online video tutorial library features more than 6,000 instructional and professional development courses that can help you reach your personal or career goals. Workshops cover a wide range of software, creative subjects, and business skills. There are even structured career tracks that compile all the courses needed to pursue a specific path. For example, you can choose “Become a Cloud Software Developer,” “Become
an IT Security Specialist,” or “Become a Music Producer,” and instantly see the recommended training sequence. You can watch courses on your computer, tablet, or mobile device. Some classes even issue certificates of completion— perfect for strengthening your résumé, preparing for a job interview, or improving your chances of earning a raise, D’Amato notes.
Owned by LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking site, Lynda.com selects top experts in each field to teach its courses, with new content added weekly. Best of all, there is no limit to how many courses you can take with your library card.
Eastport-South Manor Central School District
Eastport-South Manor School District students collect food outside of King Kullen (left) and the Presbyterian Church Food Pantry (right).
Robert Chartuk Downtown Center Moriches decked out for the Parade of Lights.
HISTORY LESSONS
BY RICHARD ACRITELLI
“…Innocent peoples, innocent nations, are being cruelly sacrificed to a greed for power and supremacy which is devoid of all sense of justice and humane considerations….”
—President Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1937
It was eighty-four years ago this week that America was completely surprised by Japanese attacks against the naval, air, and ground bases at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Four years before these actions, Roosevelt delivered the above speech during the height of the Great Depression, warning Americans about the expansionist goals of the Japanese Empire. While the attack on Pearl Harbor killed 2,400 Americans, the tensions that led to the nation’s entry into World War II had been brewing for many years.
During the brutal fighting in Nanking between Chinese forces and the invading Japanese, the USS Panay rescued American citizens from the beleaguered city and escorted three Standard Oil ships. This gunboat operated as a neutral vessel with clear American markings visible from the air. Despite this, Japanese Nakajima fighter planes repeatedly dropped 132-pound bombs on the ship as it struggled to survive. Even as Americans swam to shore, Japanese aircraft continued to strafe sailors and civilians.
Two sailors, an oil tanker captain, and an Italian journalist were killed, and forty people were injured in the assault. Despite the attack,
FOG OF WAR AND HUMANITY
BY RICHARD ACRITELLI
In the latest episode of The Fog of War and Humanity on hmTv, host Richard V. Acritelli sat down with Sean Duclay, co-founder of the veteran-support nonprofit SailAhead.org, and Angel Flores, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran whose life was changed by the program’s onthe-water missions.
Flores recalled hearing about SailAhead through his fellow Marine, John, a member of the tight-knit Marine Corps group known as the New York Savages. Expecting a small sailboat outing, Flores instead arrived at Cold Spring Harbor to find a massive 70-foot racing sloop—one of the classic vessels maintained through SailAhead’s
The Japanese Path Toward the Pearl Harbor Attacks
public anger in the United States was limited, as China was distant and Americans were consumed by economic hardship. The Japanese government paid two million dollars in reparations, and for a time the crisis was resolved. Although most Americans opposed entering a foreign war, Roosevelt remained concerned about the nation’s military weakness in the face of growing Japanese aggression. He was also aware of the horrific human rights abuses committed by Japanese forces, including the rape of nearly 80,000 women and the killing of almost 300,000 civilians. By 1941, Japan—home to 72 million people—had waged a brutal war in China, colonized Korea and Taiwan, and aggressively sought to expand further into Asia. In 1940, the Japanese rejected the influence of Western “imperialists” and established the Greater East Asia Co-Prosper -
ity Sphere to assert regional dominance. Exploiting the global depression and strong American isolationist sentiment, Japan pressed forward with its ambitions. While American CCC workers handed out rakes and shovels, Japan was building a hardened, battle-tested military. Global powers soon entered a foreign-policy “chess game,” as Germany, Italy, Japan, the Soviet Union, and China formed shifting alliances. By 1940, the United States was deeply concerned about Nazi expansion in Europe—especially after the fall of France— and Japanese dominance in Asia. The Roosevelt administration created the massive Lend-Lease program to provide weapons, food, and funding to the British, Chinese, and later the Soviets. China, however, was fractured by conflict between nationalists and communists, and Japanese control of key regions
hindered effective resistance. The Tripartite Pact formally linked Germany, Italy, and Japan in military cooperation. After France was defeated, the collaborationist Vichy government allowed Japan to occupy its Asian colonies in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.
To aid China, Roosevelt ended the sale of military goods to Japan and imposed an embargo on all other products. Japan, dependent on U.S. oil and steel, sought to secure these resources by force from neighboring territories. Roosevelt hoped the embargo would deter further expansion; instead, it accelerated Japanese military planning for an attack on Pearl Harbor.
As Japan threatened Western-held territories in Asia, it also confronted the Soviet Union. Scarred by the earlier Russo-Japanese War yet underestimating Soviet strength, Japanese forces advanced into Manchuria and Mongolia, sparking clashes. Between the mid-1930s and 1941, Soviet and Japanese forces exchanged fire 108 times. Stalin sent weapons to China and ordered Soviet pilots to engage Japanese aircraft. Between 1937 and 1941, Soviet fighters shot down 625 Japanese planes.
The decisive 1939 Battle of Khalkhin Gol, commanded by rising Soviet leader Georgy Zhukov, inflicted 18,000–23,000 casualties on Japan, convincing its leaders not to challenge Soviet power again. Although the Soviets helped partition Poland under the Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression
Pact, Stalin simultaneously signed a neutrality agreement with Japan. Until 1945, this allowed Japan to focus on its imperial aims in Asia. When Germany launched Operation Barbarossa, Japan honored the neutrality treaty and did not attack the Soviet Far East.
Meanwhile, Roosevelt grew increasingly alarmed by Japanese intentions. By 1940, American intelligence had cracked the Japanese PURPLE diplomatic code, allowing officials to read foreign policy messages through the top-secret MAGIC decryption program. The United States did not reveal this capability to other nations until after the war.
However, American intelligence was unable to read Japanese military codes before the attack. After Secretary of State Cordell Hull demanded Japan withdraw from China and French Indochina on November 26, 1941, the Japanese fleet sailed undetected toward Hawaii under strict radio silence. Believing that destroying U.S. aircraft carriers would give them control of the Pacific, Japanese forces prepared their strike. Despite intelligence warnings, poor coordination among senior American commanders left Pearl Harbor vulnerable.
In the early morning hours over Hawaii, swarms of Japanese planes launched a devastating surprise attack—awakening a “Sleeping Giant” and thrusting the United States into World War II.
SailAhead Program Lifts Veterans Through Brotherhood
partnership with the Sterling Harbor Foundation in Oyster Bay. “I walked up and said, ‘What did I just walk into?’” he laughed.
Despite having grown up on the water, Flores had never sailed before. Duclay put him to work immediately, hauling lines and learning the fundamentals of the sport. What unfolded, Flores said, was far more than an afternoon on the water. After losing his arm and struggling with isolation, he found the teamwork, alertness, and camaraderie he had been missing since his time in the Marines. “It felt like having a squad again,” he said. “That sail rebuilt my confidence in a way the VA
program never did.”
Duclay explained that SailAhead’s mission has always been rooted in connection, trust, and shared challenge. Working with veterans during races and weekly outings, he said, builds a two-way camaraderie—sailors learning from veterans, and veterans rediscovering purpose through the intensity of sailing. Both guests emphasized the need for consistent volunteers as the organization pushes toward its goal of taking 700 veterans onto the water next year. For Flores, the program’s impact is clear: “It’s one of the best things I’ve experienced. I tell people across the country about it. It changes lives.”
Acritelli closed the segment by praising both men for their dedication: “What you’re doing is
positive, meaningful, and saving lives.” For more information, visit www.sailahead.org
Historic Archive
The attack on Pearl Harbor.
SailAhead
The SailAhead crew.
By Robert Chartuk
The Holiday Festival at Olish Farms returned for its fourth year, transforming the Eastport farm into a bustling seasonal marketplace that drew families from all over. What began 60 years ago as a small
Olish Farms Kicks Off Season with Holiday Festival
farm stand started by Kip Olish and his wife, Eleanor, has grown into a beloved tradition featuring 85 craft and food vendors, live music, and free photos with Santa inside the greenhouse.
According to Tracee Olish, the festival’s popularity reflects the farm’s deep local roots
and its year-round mission to support small businesses, artisans, and Long Island growers. Olish Farms remains a true family operation, now carried forward by Tracee, her husband Donny, and their three children, along with Tracee’s sister, Shannon Curran, who organizes the farm’s events.
Robert Chartuk
In the holiday spirit are Jerry and Rosie Lopiccolo of Holtsville.
Robert Chartuk
Lillith Kukral, left, and her sister Zoe from Shirley, pose with Santa and the Grinch.
Robert Chartuk
Wendy McLaughlin of Center Moriches shows off her artwork with husband, Steve.
Robert Chartuk
Sending off a letter to Santa is Malcolm Steinberg with his dad, James, of Holbrook.
Robert Chartuk
Olish Farms Holiday Festival guest.
Robert Chartuk
Grinch Lateefah Thomas of Bay Shore, right, with her friend.
Robert Chartuk
Checking out the holiday wares at Olish Farms.
Q:
ASK NANCY
BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.
Can I make holiday gifts to my children without paying taxes?
A:Many families enjoy giving financial gifts to their children or grandchildren during the holidays. Whether it’s helping with education, starting a savings fund, or simply sharing some year-end generosity, it’s important to understand how these gifts fit into your overall estate and tax planning.
Federal law provides for a lifetime exemption amount you can give away during your life and at your death without owing federal estate or gift tax. Under the expected OBBA changes, this exemption will increase to $15 million per person beginning in 2026, or $30 million for a married couple. Normally, when someone makes a gift, they should report the gift on Form 709, the Gift Tax
Return, and file the return with the IRS. While a tax is not due every time a return is filed, it keeps track of the gifts used against your lifetime exemption.
However, there is a federal annual gift tax exclusion where gifts do not need to be reported. In 2025, you can gift up to $19,000 per person and not have to file a gift tax return. Married couples may combine their gifts and give up to $38,000 per person. When you give more than the annual exclusion amount, the overage is counted against your lifetime exemption. Even for individuals who won’t fully use their lifetime exemption, it’s still important to properly report significant gifts.
A popular option for holiday gifting is contributing to a 529 college savings plan. These accounts allow money to grow tax-free if used for education expenses. Families who want to jump-start savings can “front-load” five years of gifts at once—up to $95,000 per child ($190,000 for married couples). This can be an effective way to help a young child or grandchild get ahead.
Another meaningful way to gift is to pay certain expenses directly. Tuition paid straight to a school
Holiday Gifting and Taxes: What You Need to Know for 2025
or medical bills paid directly to a provider are not considered taxable gifts. This allows you to offer support without affecting your annual exclusion or lifetime exemption. The key is that the payment must be made directly to the institution, not to the individual.
When gifting something other than cash, like stock, crypto, or an interest in real estate, it’s helpful to keep the cost-basis rules in mind. When you give an asset during your lifetime, the recipient also receives your original basis. If the recipient later sells the asset, they may owe capital gains tax on the appreciation. Assets that pass at death, however, receive a “step-up” in basis to fair market value, which often reduces or eliminates capital gains. This is why many families choose to gift cash during life but allow appreciated assets to pass at death.
Gifting can also have Medicaid implications. New York’s nursing home Medicaid program has a five-year look-back period that treats any gift, large or small, as a non-exempt transfer. If someone applies for Medicaid within five years of making gifts, those transfers may result in a penalty period during which Medicaid
IN THIS YOUR TIME OF LOSS
will not cover the cost of care.
A person does not need to be Medicaid-eligible at the time the gift was made for it to be counted later. For individuals planning for long-term care, it’s important to speak with an elder law attorney before making gifts. Holiday gifting can be a wonderful and generous tradition. With a little planning, you can make gifts that support your loved ones and fit comfortably within your broader estate plan. Your estate planning attorney and tax professional can help
ensure your gifting strategy reflects both your wishes and your family’s future needs.
Michal Lipshitz, Esq. is a Senior Associate Attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., focusing her practice on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Alma Muharemovic, Esq. is an Associate Attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., focusing her practice on Estate Planning. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the East End of Long Island, with offices in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan, and East Hampton.
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.
Kostanti A Kruk, Owner
Kruk, Licensed Funeral Director
Chat GPT
IRS rules to gift by.
STATE
By Michael J. Reistetter
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a major new investment aimed at expanding child care access across New York State. The $100 million Child Care Capital Construction Funding Program, unveiled this week, is designed to increase the availability of quality child care and create between 6,000 and 10,000 new seats for families.
“I deeply understand how important it is for New York State to continue to address the critical child care shortage that makes it difficult for families to find the safe, quality child care services they need,” Gov. Hochul said. “Our construction grants will go a long way to increase the availability of quality child
$100 Million Statewide Child Care Access Program Announced
care statewide. Affordable, high-quality child care is a necessity that I want to see extended to all New York families.”
The new program, part of the 2025 State of the State agenda, builds on last year’s $50 million Child Care Capital Program, which supported an estimated 5,500 new child care seats.
It will be overseen by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). Grants ranging from $500,000 to $5 million will be available for not-for-profit or municipal child care providers seeking to build or upgrade licensed facilities. Projects must be located in areas with a shortage of regulated
child care and remain in operation for at least eight years.
Applications will open February 2nd, 2026, and close March 13th, 2026, with awards announced no earlier than May 4th, 2026. To ensure statewide equity, 60 percent of funding will go to downstate communities and 40 percent to upstate regions.
Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi called the investment “exactly the kind of long-term, structural support New York needs,” while DASNY President Robert J. Rodriguez emphasized its role in helping communities “thrive.”
More information is available through the Child Care Construction Funding Program on the OCFS website.
GOP Lawmakers Warn Against Democrat Tax Hikes
By Robert Chartuk
State Assembly Republicans to the Democrats: “Read our lips, no new taxes.” That was the message from the Assembly Minority Conference this week as GOP lawmakers blasted what they see as growing signals that Albany may be preparing to raise taxes despite New York’s already crushing cost burden.
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay said any discussion of new taxes must be “wholly rejected,” citing the state’s spiraling outmigration and its bottom-of-the-nation tax rankings. “New York’s economic climate is toxic,” Barclay said. “It is beyond brazen for the liberal Democrat
COUNTY
By Robert Chartuk
camp to even insinuate a tax hike. How could you even begin to consider compounding
this crisis with additional tax hikes? It is ridiculous to even entertain the notion.”
Barclay warned that although progressives claim any increases would target corporations or high earners, the reality would eventually hit working families. “Revenue-hungry progressives will turn to everyday New Yorkers to make up the difference while businesses inevitably flee,” he said.
Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano echoed the concerns, calling talk of tax hikes “tonedeaf to the financial pain families are already feeling.”
He added, “New Yorkers pay among the highest taxes and fees in America. That’s why people are leaving. If Albany raises taxes again, you’ll see the exodus.” DeStefano said residents in his Suffolk district “are stretched to the
breaking point,” and warned that “any tax hike—no matter how they dress it up—will land squarely on homeowners, commuters and small businesses.”
Republicans are pushing a slate of bills aimed at reducing costs, including Barclay’s proposal to eliminate state sales tax on fuel, household products, personal care items and ready-to-eat foods. Another measure would exempt the first $50,000 of income for small businesses with fewer than 20 employees.
“To us, affordability is more than a buzzword,” Barclay said. “If we’re going to restore New York’s competitiveness, it starts with stopping the bleeding—not raising taxes.”
Suffolk Issues Bond Notice After $112 Million Verdict
Suffolk County has taken its first formal financial steps to contain the fallout from the $112 million federal jury verdict that found the county unlawfully held hundreds of immigrants on ICE detainers between 2016 and 2018. The ruling, issued in November, concluded that detainees were held without notice or a hearing, some even after posting bail, resulting in $75 million awarded for unlawful detention and another $37 million for due-process violations.
Less than two weeks after the judgment, the County Legislature voted to approve the purchase of a surety bond designed to “stay” the verdict
during the appeal process. The bond functions as a financial backstop, temporarily halting the requirement to pay while the county seeks to overturn or reduce the award. Without it, Suffolk could be exposed to immediate financial liability equal to roughly 2.6% of its $4.3 billion annual budget.
On December 1, the county issued a voluntary disclosure to bondholders through the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s EMMA system. The filing notified investors of both the judgment and the surety bond purchase and stated that the information, while not required under Rule 15c2-12, “may be relevant to the financial evaluation of the county’s outstanding obligations.”
The disclosure explains that the surety bond gives Suffolk time “to challenge or negotiate the payout,” signaling to credit analysts that the county is attempting to manage the fiscal shock while appealing the case. The verdict stems from policies implemented under former Sheriff Vincent DeMarco and represents one of the largest civil-rights judgments in county history.
County officials have declined to elaborate beyond an initial statement, noting that they will appeal the judgement.
With other major liabilities still pending, including multimillion-dollar settlements tied to past misconduct, Suffolk faces mounting financial pressures as the appeal proceeds.
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Gov. Hochul’s program will be overseen by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
NATION
By Robert Chartuk
A landmark $6.25 billion commitment from philanthropists Michael and Susan Dell was unveiled by the White House, marking one of the largest direct investments ever made in American families. The unprecedented gift will dramatically accelerate the rollout of Trump Accounts, the new children’s savings initiative created through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.
President Trump joined the Dells and top lawmakers to celebrate what he called “a truly historic moment for America’s kids.” He praised the billionaire couple for what he described as “an extraordinary act of
Massive
By Robert Chartuk
$6.25 Billion Dell Gift Boosts Trump Accounts for Kids
patriotism and generosity that will change millions of young lives.”
Trump Accounts will be available to every U.S. citizen born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. Each account begins with a $1,000 government seed contribution, and families may add up to $5,000 per year, with funds invested in broad U.S. stock-market index funds. If fully funded and untouched, an account could grow to nearly $1.9 million by age 28. Teens can begin accessing the funds at 18.
Thanks to the Dell gift, 25 million American children age 10 and under living in ZIP codes with median incomes below $150,000 will receive $250,
boosting savings for millions of low- and middle-income households. Trump called the gift “a game-changing lift for hardworking families who deserve the same opportunities as anyone else.”
Parents and guardians may begin establishing accounts in May 2026, with contributions accepted starting July 4, 2026. Accounts will initially be held with Treasury’s designated financial agent before becoming transferable to private brokerage firms. They will grow tax free.
Michael Dell started building computers at age 19 in his University of Texas dorm room and built a multibillion-dollar fortune in the technology space.
Federal prosecutors say Minnesota is at the center of the largest pandemic-era food-aid fraud scheme in the nation, a sprawling network that siphoned more than $1 billion intended to feed low-income children.
The investigation has so far resulted in charges against 86 individuals, including 78 of Somali ancestry, in what officials describe as a web of fake nonprofits, falsified meal counts, and elaborate kickback operations.
According to federal indictments, the scheme centered on nonprofits and affiliates that claimed to be feeding tens of thousands of children every day.
In reality, investigators say the meals never existed. Prosecutors allege the same organizations
also billed for providing services to nonexistent homeless Minnesotans and for therapy sessions
for nonexistent autistic Somali children. Much of the stolen money was allegedly used to buy luxury cars, fund overseas transfers, and, in some cases, route cash to a foreign terror group.
Despite early whistleblower warnings, state enforcement agencies took no meaningful action, leaving the federal government to unravel the operation.
Court filings and internal emails show that state officials expressed concern about political backlash if they aggressively scrutinized organizations tied to the Somali community.
The massive fraud unfolded under Gov. Tim Walz, who was accused of retaliating against state workers who raised red flags about the theft. Walz, the
failed Democratic vice-presidential nominee on the Kamala Harris ticket against President Trump, has come under fire for what critics call a stunning failure of oversight.
The Trump Administration has announced steps to prevent similar abuses, including terminating Temporary Protected Status for Somalis, halting migration from third-world countries, reexamining green cards for aliens from countries of concern, and pausing asylum decisions.
Trump said the scandal “proves Minnesota has become a hub of fraudulent money laundering activity,” citing it as evidence of what he called Walz’s “dangerous incompetence.”
Trump Charts Strategy for American Strength
By Robert Chartuk
A vision that centers on restoring American strength—at home and abroad—anchors the sweeping National Strategy released last week by President Trump, a document that lays out a muscular, domestic-first agenda aimed at rebuilding the nation’s economic foundation and securing its borders after years of drift and overreach.
The plan places the American worker, the American family, and the American community at the heart of federal policy, according to the White House. It calls for reviving domestic manufacturing, cutting regulatory barriers, and accelerating the return of supply chains from overseas. The measures are designed to reverse
inflationary pressures, lower costs, and restore the middle class as the engine of national prosperity.
A central pillar of Trump’s strategy is the restoration of full operational control over the southern border, which the administration describes as essential not only to national security but to economic renewal. The document outlines tougher enforcement, faster deportation authority, expanded cooperation with state and local agencies, and new measures to combat fentanyl trafficking and human smuggling networks. The White House frames these tools as necessary to protect American jobs and communities.
Energy independence is another major priority. The strategy calls for unleashing domestic oil, gas, clean coal, and next-generation
nuclear power, paired with streamlined permitting to break through bureaucratic gridlock. Trump believes his approach will lower consumer energy bills, stabilize the grid as national demand surges, and strengthen America’s position as an energy superpower.
The document also highlights commitments to public safety, crime reduction, infrastructure modernization, and expanded support for veterans and first responders — all framed as core responsibilities of a government that “puts its own citizens first.”
The White House says the strategy represents a decisive shift toward national rebuilding, with additional policy rollouts expected in the coming weeks as agencies move to implement the President’s domestic agenda.
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LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of Assumed Name filing of DUCKPOND GATHERING.
Assumed Name Filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 9/10/ 2025. Entity Real Name East End Party Services LLC.
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff, Against ALDANE CLARKE A/K/ A ALDANE O. CLARKE A/K/A A. CLARKE, JOANA E. ILIEVA SAMPOUGKASIDOU, et al
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 08/22/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 1/6/ 2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 11 Knapp Road, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 978.90 Block 09.00 Lot 063.000
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $414,701.09 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 603315/2024
Daniel James Murphy, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, New York 10573
The annual Organizational Meeting of the East Moriches Fire District will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the East Moriches Fire House. The regular monthly meeting will follow. The subsequent regular monthly meetings of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Moriches Fire District will be held on the first Monday of each month, 7:00 PM, at the East Moriches Fire House except that the September monthly meeting
will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, 7:00 PM. The regular monthly workshop meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the East Moriches Fire District will be held on the third Monday of each month, 7:00 PM, at the East Moriches Fire House. There will also be a Budget Hearing held at the East Moriches Fire House on Monday, October 19, 2026 at 7:00 PM. This notification is given pursuant to the provisions of Section 94 of the Public Officers Law of the State of New York. BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS EAST MORICHES FIRE DISTRICT
Robert Kanas, Secretary L16408- 12/10/2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2006-A, MORTGAGEBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-A, Plaintiff, AGAINST EUMILITA JOHN, et al. Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on March 31, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on January 8, 2026 at 10:30 AM premises known as 26 Curtis Avenue, Bellport, NY 11713. 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 Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 899.00, Block 04.00 and Lot 037.000. Approximate amount of judgment $787,732.59 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #607897/ 2018. Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK NEWREZ LLC DBA SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE
SERVICING (FKA SPECIALIZED LOAN SERVICING LLC), Plaintiffagainst - MICHAEL PEABODY, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on October 16, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on the 8th day of January, 2026 at 1:30 PM. 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.
Premises known as 15 Mayfield Drive, Mastic Beach, NY 11951. (District: 0200, Section: 974.80, Block: 11.00, Lot: 010.005) Approximate amount of lien $347,201.92 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 625703/2023. Robert T. Samson, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/ 286-7409 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 Dated: October 30, 2025
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change.
Notice is hereby given that an On-Premise Restaurant Full Liquor License, NYS Application ID: CL-25-104557-01 has been applied for by Taco Ole Inc d/b/a El Taco Ole serving beer, wine, cider, mead and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a restaurant, for the premises located at 805 Montauk Highway #2 Montauk NY 11954
L16414 - 12/10/2025 & 12/17/ 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK-BROOKHAVEN. US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR CRMSI REMIC SERIES 2006-03-REMIC PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-03, Plaintiffagainst- KARL T. EDWARDS A/ K/A KARL EDWARDS, LISA L. EDWARDS A/K/A LISA EDWARDS, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated May 7, 2024 and entered on May 17, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on December 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Southeasterly side of Poospatuck Lane, distant 75.68 feet Southwesterly from the corner formed by the Easterly side of Poospatuck Lane with the Southerly side of Pawnee Avenue; being a plot 159.51 feet by 100.0 feet by 198.06 feet by 107.17 feet. District: 0200 Section: 909.00 Block: 08.00 Lot: 002.000 Said premises known as 77 POOSPATUCK LN, MASTIC, NY 11950 Approximate amount of lien $393,439.06 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 601542/2018.
DANIEL J. MURPHY, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 5025.2805
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RASC 2006KS8 Plaintiff, Against JERONE BOOKER; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 04/15/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 1/6/ 2026 at 10:30AM, premises known as 838 Doane Avenue, Bellport, NY 11713, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or
parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, and State of New York. District 0200 Section 959.00 Block 06.00 Lot 009.000 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $244,306.38 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 603145/2019
Daniel James Murphy, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, Against YEN LOPEZ A/K/A YEN R. LOPEZ A/K/A YEN S. LOPEZ A/K/A YENNIFER LOPEZ A/K/A YENNIFER R. LOPEZ A/K/A YENNIFER S. LOPEZ, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/12/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 1/6/ 2026 at 11:00AM, premises known as 42 Sterling Ave, Patchogue, New York 11772, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York. District 0200 Section 951.00 Block 06.00 Lot 005.000 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $713,931.57 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 624041/2018
Daniel James Murphy, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County. US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT
SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiffagainst- MARY LOUISE PENNISI; SLOMINS INC.; OPTIMA CARE LLC DBA BROOKSIDE MULTICARE NURSING CENTER; ROBERT KAMIN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARILYN KAMIN; RICHARD KAMIN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARILYN KAMIN; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF MARLYN KAMIN; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS; JOHN DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons, or corporations, or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors, or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.), Defendants Index No. 602932/2024. Mortgaged Premises: 26 Bayside Road Mastic Beach, NY 11951 District: 0200 Section: 983.40 Block: 05.00 Lots: 065.001 and 066.001 TO THE ABOVE
NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff's attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a mortgage to secure $123,050.00 and interest, recorded in the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on August 3, 2011, in Book M00022102, Page 203, covering the premises known as 26 Bayside Road, Mastic Beach, NY 11951. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding
against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 2005-4, NOVASTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 20054, -against- EDITH BROWN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS R. BROWN, IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on September 9, 2024, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR NOVASTAR MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST, SERIES 2005-4, NOVASTAR HOME EQUITY LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-4 is the Plaintiff and EDITH BROWN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS R. BROWN, IF LIVING, AND IF SHE/HE BE DEAD, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on January 8, 2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 41 LINCOLN BOULEVARD, EAST MORICHES, NY 11940; and the following tax map identification: 0200-831.00-03.00-053.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED SITUATE LYING
THE CLASSIFIEDS
AND BEING AT EAST MORICHES TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 618439/2020. William H. Krause, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
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30. Knock down to private 32. Fraternal or identical
32. Fraternal or identical pair
36. Aid in a caper
Aid in a caper 37. Traditional fall gatherings
Pesky kid
37. Traditional fall gatherings
41. Where Farsi is spoken
Joey of literature
43. Treat like a pariah
Where Farsi is spoken 43. Treat like a pariah 44. To a greater extent
Title of respect
53. Sir __ Newton 57. Three, on a par five 58. Source of some municipal revenue
5. Cotton capsule
44. To a greater extent 47. More provocative
Stew cooker
More provocative 52. Stew cooker 53. Sir __ Newton
60. Grow dimmer 63. Mutual fund?
6. "Certainly!"
One of several millions
64. Amiable 65. Finishes a cake
Three, on a par five
Type of dive
Source of some municipal revenue
Grow dimmer
Mutual fund?
7. Slow tempo
8. Heavenly hunter
9. Silver medal
10. Baseball toppers
12. Chaps
66. Tottering 67. Jazz great __ James
68. Yurt, essentially 69. Unhip sorts 70. Take a break
39. Is for you?
40. Type of article (abbr.)
41. Pesky kid
42. Joey of literature
45. Title of respect
11. Palindromic woman
13. Prior to, in an ode
62. Lion’s digs • First select a number/operator and than apply it to a sudoku cell.
Votes in
Amiable
Finishes a cake
21. African language branch
22. Go green, perhaps
25. Some defensive tennis shots
26. Worked on a sub
As of now
Have a deed to
Smudge, perhaps
"__ five o'clock somewhere!"
34. Times Sq. locale 35. Northern California hub
Supermarket vehicle
Vague person?
46. One of several millions Japanese
48. Type of dive
49. Light
50. Votes in
51. Move to a different section, say
54. Lit
55. Following
56. Mentioned in a footnote 58. Trial period 59. V8's eight (abbr.) 60. Relaxed __ jeans
Untouched serve
Lion's digs
Mountain __ (flowering shrub)
"Final Ratings" by Mark McClain
THE FANTASY BASEBALL EXPERIENCE
Will the Rays Magic Strike Again?
By Tom Barton
There is an old adage in baseball circles that when the Tampa Bay Rays’ front office calls you about a trade, you should hang up the phone immediately. That is because, in all likelihood, the Rays have identified value in one of your undervalued assets and are preparing to fleece you in a deal. The same can be said about their knack for finding hidden gems on the free-agent market. This ownership group has always been extremely frugal, but when they decide to spend money on a player, it often comes with significant upside that leaves the rest of baseball wondering, “How did we miss that?” In many ways, the Rays operate like savvy fantasy baseball managers: ignore the age, ignore the hype, and follow the numbers.
This week, Tampa Bay added a player who fits that mold perfectly. They signed him to a
one-year “prove it” deal worth just $7 million. This player has hit 15 or more home runs in five straight seasons, with a career-high of 30. He has also stolen 19 or more bases in each of those same five seasons, including three seasons with over 30 steals. His counting stats remain solid, and he is only 31 years old. On paper, that sounds like a perfectly respectable third outfielder in fantasy baseball, right? Yet Cedric Mullins is typically drafted much later than that.
Mullins struggled in New York, but he is still the best outfield option the Rays currently have. He now has a real chance to deliver meaningful value as a late-round gamble for fantasy owners seeking 15–20 home runs and stolen bases—a combination becoming increasingly rare. You won’t need to reach for him, and he may start on your bench, but the upside is undeniable. And if the Rays see it, I’m siding with the geniuses.
BETTING WITH BARTON
BY TOM BARTON
The Detroit Lions saved their season with an outstanding offensive performance against the Cowboys Thursday night, but for sports bettors there is a bigger picture to notice. Lost among Jahmyr Gibbs’ touchdowns and the collapse of the Cowboys’ season is the fact that this Lions team has become an Over cash cow. Detroit gets big contributions from Amon-Ra St. Brown and Gibbs, but that production isn’t unusual for an offense that also features David Montgomery, Jameson Williams, and several other explosive players. This week’s total was the highest on the board, yet the Lions made it look easy by scoring 44 points themselves. They have now posted 44 points twice in the past five weeks, with a season high of 52. Detroit has reached the 30s in more than half of its games and has scored at least 24 points in every home matchup. Detroit’s offense is impressive, but there is another
angle bettors should consider if they prefer not to play team totals. The Lions’ defense has been downright poor lately. They allowed Dallas to score 30 points, marking the second straight week they surrendered 30 or more after giving up 31 to Green Bay. Even Jameis Winston, a third-string quarterback, put up 27 points just three games ago. That makes four straight games in which the Lions have allowed at least 27 points. They also lost their best secondary player when Brian Branch was ruled out for the season.
The upcoming schedule includes MVP favorite Matthew Stafford this week, followed by Pittsburgh at home, the Vikings indoors in a rematch of a game that totaled 51 points, and a trip to Chicago. There is a real chance the Lions go Over the total in each of their final games, and bettors should note how explosive the offense is and how vulnerable the defense has become.
It’s Over for the Lions
Campbell Baseball
Cedric Mullins
@BradGalli | X
Dan Campbell
SPORTS
By Tom Barton
Sachem East’s Sports & Entertainment Management classes recently took their learning on the road with an in-depth, behind-the-scenes tour of MetLife Stadium — the home of both the New York Giants and the New York Jets. The visit offered students an invaluable opportunity to see how concepts learned in the classroom play out in one of the largest and most complex sports venues in the country.
During the tour, students received an inside look at numerous aspects of stadium operations, including facility management, security procedures, and game-day logistics. Guides explained the extensive planning required to transition the building between Giants
Sachem Goes to MetLife
and Jets home games, as well as the unique challenges of hosting non-football events such as major concerts and international soccer matches. Students were able to walk through premium seating areas, team locker rooms, and media spaces, giving them a sense of the professional standards expected at a worldclass venue.
Marketing strategies were another highlight of the trip. Representatives discussed how the stadium attracts events, engages fans, and partners with sponsors. Students learned about the importance of branding, social media outreach, and community engagement in sustaining a successful sports and entertainment operation. In addition, they gained insight into the massive costs associated
with running a facility of this scale, from staffing and technology to maintenance and event production.
Teachers noted that the experience helped bring textbook concepts to life in a meaningful and memorable way. According to the Sachem social media account, the trip was “an incredible real-world experience for our future leaders in sports and entertainment,” reflecting the district’s commitment to providing hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in a rapidly evolving industry.
Overall, the MetLife Stadium tour gave students a deeper appreciation for the teamwork, planning, and creativity required to operate a premier sports and entertainment destination.
Former Suffolk Great Visits the Classroom
By Tom Barton
Hofstra baseball coach Frank Catalanotto, a 14-year major leaguer from Smithtown, spoke with CMS sports management students this week. Catalanotto delivered an engaging, informative presentation that highlighted the many moving parts involved in running a successful collegiate baseball program. He explained how recruiting functions at the Division I level, noting the importance of evaluating not only talent, but also academic commitment and long-term personal growth. He also described how scholarship allocations must be strategically managed to balance roster needs, compet -
itive expectations, and NCAA regulations.
Beyond the recruiting process, Catalanotto outlined the
demanding schedules student-athletes must maintain. He spoke about early morning workouts, daily practices, ac -
ademic responsibilities, travel obligations, and the importance of time management. He stressed that discipline and accountability extend far beyond the baseball field. The coach also highlighted the many opportunities available for non-playing students to be involved in the program, including roles in marketing, analytics, operations, social media, and game-day support. These positions, he noted, offer valuable experience for students interested in careers in sports management or related fields.
Catalanotto emphasized the characteristics he values most in potential recruits: strong grades, integrity, teamwork, hustle, and a genuine competitive spirit. Skill alone, he
explained, is never enough to build a sustainable winning culture. “In order to build a winning team, you have to have the right culture,” Catalanotto told the middle school students, encouraging them to focus on both character and effort in their own pursuits. The visit held added meaning given the local ties within the school community. Commack athletic director Pat Friel, himself a former Hofstra baseball player, attended the event, as did CMS sports management teacher and Hofstra alum Jason Fluger. Their presence underscored the strong connection between the university and the surrounding community. The discussion left students inspired and eager to pursue opportunities.
Uncle Stevie Adds Casinos to His Resume
By Tom Barton
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen won approval to operate a casino next to Citi Field in Queens, one of three projects selected by the New York State Gaming Commission’s facility location board to receive downstate gambling licenses. Cohen, the hedge fund billionaire who submitted an $8 billion proposal with Hard Rock International, was chosen alongside Genting Group’s Resorts World and Bally’s Corp. Genting plans to expand its casino near Aqueduct racetrack in Queens, while Bally’s intends to open a gaming facility at a Bronx golf course previously developed by former President Donald Trump.
Board member Greg Reimers
said the population within a two-hour radius would support steady visitation, further boosted by domestic and international travelers. He noted that each proposal demonstrated strong brand positioning, amenities, and facility design. The approvals move New York closer to completing a decade-long effort to award up to three lucrative casino licenses in the downstate region. Consultants project $7 billion in gaming tax revenue between 2027 and 2036, in addition to $1.5 billion in licensing fees and $5.9 billion in other taxes.
The board’s decisions prompted protests, with several attendees shouting “shame on you.” The gaming commission will now review the selected applications for compliance with licensing
and environmental requirements, with licenses expected to be granted by year-end. Cohen’s Metropolitan Park project will be built on the parking lot next to Citi Field and will
include a casino, live entertainment venue, restaurants, shops, a hotel, and a convention center.
Scheduled for completion in 2030, the project is expected to create 17,000 construction jobs and
6,000 permanent jobs. By its third year, it is projected to generate $3.9 billion in revenue and more than $850
Commack School District | Facebook
Frank Catalanotto
Sachem Schools
Sachem students at MetLife Stadium.
Hard Rock International
A rendering of the Casino next to Citi Field
SPORTS
By Tom Barton
Patchogue-Medford High School gymnastics coach
Kimberly Marshall has been named the Suffolk County Girls Gymnastics Coaches Association League 1 Coach of the Year, an honor that reflects her dedication, leadership, and commitment to the student-athletes she guides. Coach Marshall has spent years building a strong and supportive program, and this season was one of the most impressive yet. Under her direction, the Raiders delivered consistent performances, improved their overall meet scores, and demonstrated a level of discipline and teamwork that set them apart within one of the county’s most competitive leagues.
Pat-Med’s Marshall Wins Coach of the Year
The Raiders capped off their season with an outstanding fifthplace finish at the team county championship, a testament to the group’s hard work and the foundation Coach Marshall has established. Her athletes competed with confidence and precision, showing growth in every event. Their performance at the county championship highlighted the team’s depth, as well as the ability of each gymnast to rise to the occasion on a big stage.
In addition to the team success, Patchogue-Medford celebrated significant individual achievements. Six Raiders qualified for the individual county championship, an impressive accomplishment that speaks volumes about both the talent with-
in the program and the coaching behind it. These athletes trained rigorously throughout the season, refining their skills on vault, bars, beam, and floor. Their advancement to the individual championship reflects their dedication and the guidance provided by Coach Marshall, who has continually emphasized technique, mental toughness, and strong work ethic.
Earning the title of League 1 Coach of the Year is not only a recognition of Coach Marshall’s achievements this season, but also a celebration of her longterm impact on the gymnastics community. Her efforts have helped elevate Patchogue-Medford gymnastics, and the program is poised for continued success in the years ahead.
Mets Sign the Yankees Old Closer
By Tom Barton
The New York Mets are in agreement with reliever Devin Williams on a three-year contract guaranteeing $51 million, a deal that also includes significant deferrals. Williams became one of baseball’s best closers with the Brewers, posting a 0.33 ERA across 27 innings during the shortened 2020 season while winning both National League Rookie of the Year and Reliever of the Year. He continued his dominance over the next several seasons, and after becoming Milwaukee’s full-time closer, he recorded 36 saves with a 1.53 ERA and earned his second Reliever of the Year award. Across his first four full
seasons, he produced a 1.75 ERA while striking out 40.5
percent of opposing hitters. After allowing a pivotal postseason home run to Pete Alonso, Milwaukee traded him to the Yankees. The 31-yearold struggled mightily early in New York, to the point where the team reportedly considered releasing him, but he eventually rebounded. Williams was excellent leading into the All-Star break, yet inconsistency returned afterward, and the Yankees replaced him as closer following the addition of David Bednar. He finished the season with a career-worst 4.79 ERA despite striking out nearly 40 percent of hitters. Much of the damage stemmed from a .339 opponent batting average on balls
in play with runners on, by far the highest of his career. Despite the poor results, Williams’ underlying metrics remain elite. His fastball sits around 94 mph, but his standout pitch is his unique “Airbender” changeup, which generates exceptional movement and has held opponents below .200 in every full season. Those traits made him a popular buy-low target, and the Mets are betting that his 2025 performance was an outlier. Williams is expected to take on a major late-inning role in Carlos Mendoza’s bullpen and currently projects as the team’s closer unless the Mets decide to re-sign Edwin Díaz.
Smithtown Star Named to the All-State Team
By Tom Barton
Smithtown East soccer
standout Branden Jurlando has officially been named to the New York All-State Team, marking one of the most significant accomplishments of his high school career. He is one of only six players from Suffolk Class AA to earn this prestigious honor in 2025, a recognition that highlights his exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment on the field throughout the fall season. Jurlando’s consistently strong play, work ethic, and ability to elevate his team in critical moments made him a clear choice for statewide recognition. Later this month, he will be formally honored by the
Suffolk County Soccer Association at the annual Suffolk County Coaches Association awards banquet. This event brings together the top high school soccer players, coaches, and supporters from across the county, making Jurlando’s inclusion a meaningful milestone not only for him but also for the entire Smithtown East soccer program.
Jurlando is now the fifth Smithtown East player to receive All-State recognition in the past five seasons, further demonstrating the strength, depth, and competitiveness of the school’s program. His latest honor adds to an already impressive list of accolades compiled during his distinguished high school career.
These achievements include being a four-time varsity letterman, a four-time playoff qualifier, and a two-time county semifinalist. He played a key role in helping Smithtown East secure the 2023 League Championship, earned All-League recognition in 2024, and served as team captain for the 2025 season. Additionally, he was selected to compete in the 2025 Suffolk Senior All-Star Game, a showcase reserved for the county’s most accomplished senior players.
With his 2025 New York AllState selection now cemented, Branden Jurlando leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, leadership, and dedication—an example for future Smithtown East athletes to follow.
@MLB | X
Devin Williams
Patchogue-Medford School District | Facebook
Kimberly Marshall smithtowneastsoccer | Instagram
Branden Jurlando
By Tom Barton
This week, Half Hollow Hills East High School celebrated and honored its outstanding student-athletes, recognizing the individuals whose dedication, leadership, and academic excellence have helped shape the school’s athletic community. The event highlighted the achievements of the school’s Academic All-League seniors, a prestigious group of student-athletes who exemplify the true meaning of balancing rigorous academic expectations with competitive athletic performance. These seniors have demonstrated unwavering commitment over four years, earning distinction both in the classroom and on the field. The
Half Hollow Hills East Honors their Star Athletes
honorees—Courtney Adelberg, Amanda Burack, Emma Crawford, Samantha Gelman, and Ella Linn—were applauded for their resilience, discipline, and consistent ability to excel across multiple responsibilities. Their accomplishments reflect not only personal drive but also the support of coaches, teachers, teammates, and families who have helped guide them through the challenges of high school athletics.
In addition to celebrating its Academic All-League seniors at the ceremony, Hills East also took time to recognize two exceptional athletes from the girls’ soccer program. All-Division standouts Raquelle Renieris and Bella Milano were honored for their impressive
performances, leadership, and contributions throughout the season. Both athletes were recently recognized at the County dinner, an event that highlights the top soccer players across Suffolk County. Their selection is a testament to their hard work, technical skill, and competitive spirit, as well as to the strength of the Hills East soccer program.
Overall, the ceremony served as a reminder of the powerful role athletics can play in a student’s development. The school community came together to celebrate not just wins and statistics, but the dedication, character, and academic focus that define what it truly means to be a student-athlete at Half Hollow Hills East.
Roughriders Coan Wins the Grey Cup
By Tom Barton
Former Sayville star Jack Coan can add another trophy to his mantle this week after helping the Saskatchewan Roughriders win the Canadian Football League’s Grey Cup. Coan, a former Hansen Award winner as Suffolk County’s top football player, led the Golden Flashes to two Suffolk titles and one Long Island championship. Now he is a champion again, as the Roughriders prevailed 25–17 in the Grey Cup Final. The Sayville native serves as a backup quarterback but saw action in multiple games this season, and he has stated that while his goal is to help the team win, he ultimately hopes to earn a starting job. Before heading to Canada, Coan
Sachem
By Tom Barton
This Thanksgiving, Sachem students Gianna Acevedo of Seneca Middle School and Charlotte Esposito of Cayuga Elementary proudly represented both Suffolk County and the Sachem community in the historic Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade. Their appearance in one of the nation’s oldest holiday parades was the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and standout performances in cheerleading. Both athletes earned their place in the parade after attending UCA Cheerleading Camp this summer, where they were recognized as All-Americans, one of the highest honors awarded at the camp. This prestigious achievement is given only to
attended the University of Wisconsin.
He became the Badgers’ undisputed starter in 2019, throwing for 2,727 yards and 18 touchdowns, but a foot injury forced him to miss the following season. In 2021, he transferred to Notre Dame.
Coan passed for 3,150 yards and 25 touchdowns with only seven interceptions while helping Notre Dame finish 11–2 in 2021. After college, he set Fiesta Bowl records for passing yards (509) and touchdown passes (five) against Oklahoma State on January 1, 2022.
On May 13, 2022, Coan signed with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted
Students
free agent. He appeared in three preseason games, going 7-for-11 for 83 yards against the Detroit Lions on August 20, 2022. He threw a 27-yard touchdown pass to Samson Nacua with 38 seconds left to cut the Colts’ deficit to 27–26, though the ensuing two-point attempt failed. Coan finished with a 116.9 passer rating but was among the team’s final cuts two days later. In 2023, Coan played for the XFL’s San Antonio Brahmas, throwing for 1,403 yards and six touchdowns in eight games and earning NFL tryouts with the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks before signing with the Grey Cup champs.
Take Center Stage on Thanksgiving
participants who demonstrate exceptional skill, spirit, leadership, and overall excellence. Being named an All-American also provides athletes with the opportunity to perform in special events across the country, including the Varsity Spirit Tour of Philadelphia, which showcases top young cheerleaders from various states.
What makes Gianna’s and Charlotte’s accomplishment even more impressive is that they are among the youngest performers selected out of more than 150 total participants. Despite their age, both cheerleaders have shown remarkable commitment to their sport, balancing school responsibilities with rigorous practice schedules and the preparation required for a nationally recog-
nized performance.
In the days leading up to the parade, Sachem’s social media team expressed heartfelt support for the two athletes. The district shared, “Best of luck to Gianna and Charlotte as they shine bright and represent Sachem Sports Club Cheerleading and the greater Sachem community with pride!” Their message reflected the enthusiasm felt across the district, as teachers, peers, and families celebrated the girls’ opportunity to showcase their talent on such a prominent stage. Gianna and Charlotte returned home with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and the pride of knowing they represented Sachem with grace and excellence during a beloved Thanksgiving tradition.
sayvillepublicschools | Insagram
Jack Coan
Half Hollow Hills Central School District | Facebook
HHH East student athletes.
Sachem Schools
Gianna Acevedo and Charlotte Esposito
SPORTS
By Tom Barton
For Bayport-Blue Point to win the Long Island Class IV championship, it would need history to be broken. The Phantoms required a longer field goal than had ever been made in a Long Island title game to secure the crown. That is when Tommy Steyert trotted onto the field with immense pressure on his shoulders and lined up for a 47-yard attempt. With the clock hitting zero and the ball soaring through the air, Steyert drilled the kick to give Bayport-Blue Point the Long Island Class IV title.
Bayport-Blue Point head coach Mike Zafonte showed complete confidence in his
Historic Kick Gives BBP the Long Island Crown
young kicker, and that faith was rewarded. The dramatic kick sealed a 20-19 victory over Seaford. The Phantoms capped off an incredible game that remained a nail-biter from start to finish. In the closing minutes, several heroes emerged, all leading to Steyert’s legendary moment. Seaford scored the go-ahead touchdown with 2:40 remaining, but BBP’s Ryan Space blocked the extra point, keeping the score at 19-17 and opening the door for the eventual game winner.
The Phantoms then drove to the Seaford 38-yard line, where quarterback Colin Clark connected with Colin Most for an eight-yard gain on a play that began with just
five seconds remaining. That completion set up Steyert’s historic kick and cemented the Phantoms’ place in Long Island football lore.
Bayport-Blue Point has firmly established itself as one of Long Island’s premier high school football programs, and this championship only adds to that legacy. This win marked the Phantoms’ fourth straight appearance in a Long Island Championship game, but the dramatic nature of this finish made the moment feel even more extraordinary. With a historic kick, resilient team effort, and unforgettable lategame execution, the Phantoms earned a championship that will be remembered for years to come.
Tragedy Strikes Long Island Coach
By Tom Barton
Wading River’s own Liam Gleason, the Siena University men’s lacrosse coach, died Wednesday at Albany Medical Center, three days after suffering a severe head injury from a fall at his home. He had just turned 41 years old on Friday. Gleason was a standout lacrosse player at Shoreham-Wading River High School, where he helped lead the program to a state championship in 2002 before graduating in 2003. He went on to graduate from the University at Albany in 2007 and later built a successful coaching career. Over the past seven seasons at Siena, he
guided the Saints to consistent improvement, culminating in the program’s Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference championship this past May.
Following news of his injury, alumni from both schools and the broader lacrosse community rallied in support of Gleason and his family. A GoFundMe page created to assist his wife, Jaclyn, and their three children had raised more than $500,000 by Wednesday evening. According to police dispatch records, Gleason fell down a staircase at his residence on Sunday. State Police and paramedics responded, and he sustained a significant head injury. CPR was administered during his transport to the hospital.
Gleason was an organ donor, and his final act of generosity moved all who witnessed it. In what is known as an “Honor Walk,” he was escorted down a hallway at Albany Medical Center on Wednesday afternoon for organ procurement. His family walked behind him, and approximately 250 people lined the hallways, including the entire Siena team wearing their jerseys and a number of UAlbany players.
Gleason’s impact on the lacrosse world, his players, and his community will be felt for years to come. His life, legacy, and generosity have left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Hockey for Cancer Pays Off Big
By Tom Barton
Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina joined Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon and representatives from the Strohm Foundation to present a substantial donation to the Stony Brook Cancer Center. The $50,000 contribution, raised through a charity hockey game between the Suffolk County Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office, along with generous support from the Strohm Foundation, symbolizes the 50,000 individuals diagnosed with 9/11-related cancers and will directly support research aimed at better understanding and treating these conditions. The donation reflects a
shared commitment to honoring victims, supporting survivors, and advancing lifesaving scientific progress.
Team SCPD delivered an impressive performance in the charity matchup, defeating the Sheriff’s Office team by a decisive 6–1 score. The game, held in November at the Clark Gillies Arena at Dix Hills Park, drew strong community turnout and showcased the camaraderie and cooperation between the two agencies. Beyond the final score, the event served as a reminder of the power of community engagement and the importance of coming together for a meaningful cause.
Following the donation, the Suffolk County Police De-
partment shared a message of gratitude on its social media accounts, stating, “Thank you to everyone who came together to make this sizeable donation for the fight against cancer.” Their statement highlighted the collective efforts of players, organizers, donors, and attendees who contributed to the event’s success.
The collaborative donation also underscores the ongoing commitment of both law enforcement agencies and the Strohm Foundation to supporting public health initiatives across Long Island. By directing funds toward research at the Stony Brook Cancer Center, the partners hope to advance breakthroughs that will benefit those
affected by 9/11-related illnesses and strengthen the region’s medical resources. As the community reflects on the event, the
charitable effort stands as a testament to teamwork, generosity, and determination for future patients everywhere.
Lacrosseisland
Liam Gleason
@SectXISuffolk | X
BBP Championship team
Suffolk County Police
Suffolk hockey players
SAYVILLE WINS LONG ISLAND CHAMPIONSHIP
By Tom Barton
The Sayville Golden Flashes are your Long Island Champions. After a brilliant, undefeated season, they held on against a strong Wantagh team to earn a 42–35 victory. The championship win took place this weekend at Hofstra University and marked the eighth Long Island title in program history. Sayville opened the game with two quick touchdowns, but Wantagh had been the comeback team all season, so the Flashes knew they were in for a four-quarter battle. It was the fifth time in six weeks that the Warriors trailed in the first half, and in each of those previous games they rallied to win. However, Sayville’s dominant ground attack prevented another comeback, as the Flashes ran all over the Wantagh defense. Sayville was led by senior tailback Tristan Vitale and senior quarterback Patrick Coan. Vitale delivered a historic performance, rushing for 239 yards and five touchdowns, while Coan added 229 rushing yards and a score of his own. It was an offensive showcase, with both teams scoring at least one touchdown in every quarter. But despite Sayville’s offensive fireworks, the defense produced the biggest play of the day to secure the championship.
After Vitale’s 10-yard touchdown run on the first play of the fourth quarter put Sayville ahead 42–28, Wantagh answered with a 71-yard scoring drive and then recovered the ensuing on-side kick. Needing a stop, the Sayville defense rose to the moment. They allowed just one first down on the possession before forcing a fourth-and-13. That’s when Luke Neugebauer stepped in front of a pass for a game-clinching interception, sealing the Long Island title.
The win highlights Sayville’s recent dominance. This was the program’s third trip to the Long Island Championship in the last four years. The Golden Flashes previously won the title in 2022.
