The South Shore Press 1/7

The People’s Newspaper - Covering All of Suffolk County

42ND YEAR • ISSUE 1

JANUARY 7, 2026

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South Shore Press Story Leads State Dollars Flow Bringing in the New Year at Ketcham Inn to Local Libraries Story on Story on to $5,000 Donation Credit: Robert Chartuk

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Credit: Robert Chartuk

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

From the

NEWSROOM

BY ROBERT CHARTUK The story below is about a free Quitline that helps people end their addiction to tobacco and its cruel companion, nicotine. Getting people to quit became a personal crusade of mine after smoking killed my mother, father, sister, and various aunts and uncles.

They all started at a young age before warnings on cigarette packs said smoking will kill you, and the habit became less acceptable in social settings and public spaces.

With smoking, you usually don’t just up and die—although some people do. It’s a long, slow, painful process that robs you of breath and tortures you with the knowledge that you did this to yourself. Nicotine is one of the hardest drugs

to quit. My sister struggled for years—tried the patch, gum, hypnosis—and said she hallucinated about seeing cigarettes floating in the air when she tried to give them up.

She finally had to quit when she went on oxygen. My aunt wasn’t so strong. Incredibly, she would take the mask off to keep smoking.

My mother quit on National Smoke Out Day when she was 50 years old. She had started smoking at 13 thanks to peer pressure while working on a farm in Manorville. A strong woman, she quit cold turkey and never missed it. Within weeks, she could walk down the stairs to her favorite beach at Wildwood State Park — something she struggled to do

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It’s a New Year: Break Free From Your Nicotine Addiction as a smoker.

It took decades, but the tar and nicotine of a pack a day finally caught up to her and at 87, died a horrible death from lung cancer, the same disease that took my dad.

The state Department of Health now highlights the story of Deb, who reached out to the Quitline and received free nicotine replacement patches along with ongoing support calls from trained Quit Coaches. She says the combination was life-changing, helping her break both the physical and mental grip of smoking.

It’s a new year. Help is available. Please make the commitment to rid yourself of the terrible curse of tobacco.

A New Year’s gift to yourself: fresh air.

Chat GPT

New Year, New Start: Free Help to Quit Tobacco

By Robert Chartuk With the start of 2026 comes another chance to take on personal resolutions, and for many New York residents that goal is becoming tobacco-free. The state’s Quitline reminds residents that free, confidential help is available seven days a week, and that thousands of people successfully quit each year with the right support.

Deb P., a 71-year-old Bellport resident, is one of those success stories. Now tobacco-free for more than two and a half years, Deb says quitting changed her health, her daily routine, and her relationship with her family.

NY-Quits

Help to quit smoking in 2026.

Deb first tried smoking at age 15 and became a regular

smoker by 16. Over the decades, she made multiple attempts to

quit, including hypnosis, but nothing seemed to work. She often smoked a pack or more a day and struggled to believe she could ever stop.

In the spring of 2023, Deb developed double pneumonia and had difficulty breathing and walking. Even then, quitting felt overwhelming. Around that time, she saw a television commercial for the New York State Quitline that made her reflect on her health and on her grandson, who hesitated to hug her because she smelled like cigarettes.

Deb reached out for help and received free nicotine replacement patches and ongoing support calls from trained Quit

Coaches. She says the combination was life-changing, helping her break both the physical and mental habits tied to smoking.

Now approaching her 72nd birthday, Deb feels healthier and more energized. She plays pickleball several times a week and enjoys closer, more confident hugs with her grandson. She encourages others not to give up.

Anyone looking to quit can call 1-866-NY-QUITS, visit nysmokefree.com, or access free text support by texting QUITNOW to 333888. The Quitline is supported by the Department of Health and is based at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, helping New Yorkers reclaim healthier lives.

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South Shore Press Story Leads State Dollars Flow Bringing in the New Year at Ketcham Inn to Local Libraries Story on Story on to $5,000 Donation Credit: Robert Chartuk

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

EDITORIAL

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Blakeman Wins Conservative Party Endorsement for Governor

By Robert Chartuk The New York Conservative Party has endorsed Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for governor, casting the Long Island Republican as a remedy to what party leaders describe as the failed policies of Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Conservative Chairman Jerry Kassar said New Yorkers are being “crushed” by rising taxes, utility rates, and living costs, while crime has also increased under Hochul’s leadership. He pointed to state policies including cashless bail, Clean Slate, and Less Is More as weakening public safety, and criticized state spending priorities amid continued

out-migration.

“Under Kathy Hochul, New York has become one of the most unaffordable states in the nation,” Kassar said, noting that families and businesses are leaving because they can no longer afford to stay. He said change begins with electing Blakeman, citing the county executive’s record on taxes, law enforcement, and what he called common-sense governance.

As Nassau County executive, Blakeman has emphasized cooperation with federal immigration authorities to remove dangerous criminals, vocal support for police, and policies he says protect fairness in women’s sports.

“While Albany politicians talk, Bruce Blakeman acts,” Kassar said

in announcing the endorsement.

Blakeman welcomed the backing, saying he and Kassar share a mission to put taxpayers and public safety first. He pledged to lower taxes, back law enforcement, and “restore common sense” to state government.

The Conservative Party endorsement follows a major boost for Blakeman on the national stage. President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Blakeman after another GOP favorite, Rep. Elise Stefanik, bowed out of the race. Trump praised Blakeman’s work with ICE and law enforcement and called him “MAGA all the way,” offering what he described as a “complete and total endorsement.”

With Stefanik out, Blakeman

Bruce Blakeman, left, with President Trump.

has emerged as the GOP frontrunner. As the incumbent in a decidedly blue state, Hochul holds built-in advantages that Blake-

Blakeman for New York

man must overcome, particularly in fundraising and name recognition outside of Long Island.

OP-ED

A Dangerous First Day for Jewish New Yorkers

By Alan Mindel

Within hours of taking office, Mayor Mamdani revoked that order, explicitly scrapping the city’s recognition of the IHRA definition, including its examples that identify certain forms of anti-Zionism—such as denying the Jewish people the right to self-determination or branding Israel’s very existence as a “racist endeavor.”

Mayor Adams also issued Executive Order 60 in December, barring New York City agencies and appointees from participating in boycotts or divestment campaigns that single out Israel and prohibiting divestment decisions intended to discriminate against Israel.

On his first day, Mayor Mamdani canceled that anti-BDS order and lifted restrictions on boycotting Israel, thereby clearing the way for city agencies and officials to engage in BDS-aligned actions that target the world’s only Jewish state.

New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has used his first day in office to repeal the city’s adoption of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism and to lift restrictions on municipal participation in the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign targeting Israel.

These abrupt reversals remove vital protections that Jewish New Yorkers secured and send a chilling message at a time of sharply rising antisemitic incidents.

Former Mayor Eric Adams signed Executive Order 52 in June of last year, directing all New York City agencies to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism as a framework to identify and address antisemitism across the five boroughs.

Alan Mindel

Criticism of Israeli policies—like criticism of any other government—is not, in itself, antisemitic, and the IHRA definition explicitly protects legitimate political debate. However, singling out only Israel for boycotts, divestment, and sanctions by holding

Ban Battery Bombs Dear Editor: Despite countless protests across the state, New York’s leaders have pressed onward in trying to force Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) developments on unwilling communities. Now, as Warwick has faced the third fire at its BESS facility in two years, it is time for change.

Proposed BESS facilities have caused protest and uproar across the state, from communities in the Hudson Valley to residential neighborhoods in Queens and Brooklyn, and towns across Suffolk County. Residents are rightfully concerned about the risks these facilities bring with them.

BESS facilities use massive lithium-ion batteries, and residents across the state are rightfully concerned about the risks these facilities bring with them. When

hmTV

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these batteries catch fire, they explode, emit toxic chemicals, and burn hotter and longer than normal fires, making them difficult for firefighters to put out.

New York City has been plagued by fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes. Since 2022, 900 such fires have resulted in 30 deaths and 400 injuries. In early 2025, the BESS facility

it to standards not applied to any other nation, and using opposition to Israel’s existence as a test of whether Jews and others are welcome in civic life, are classic examples of antisemitism under IHRA’s widely accepted criteria.

Mayor Mamdani is a long-time supporter of the BDS movement and an opponent of the IHRA definition, and he has publicly refused to recognize Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state. These firstday moves confirm the concerns of many Jewish New Yorkers and come amid an already documented surge in antisemitic incidents, threats, and harassment in New York City since October 7, 2023.

While Governor Kathy Hochul has praised the IHRA Working Definition, she has refused to adopt IHRA as binding state policy, and it is therefore not fully enacted as state law. Furthermore, she has not made any serious effort to codify the definition by

at the Moss Landing Power Plant, about 100 miles south of San Francisco caught fire, burning for days. 1,500 people were forced to evacuate. In the aftermath, “extremely high” concentrations of heavy metals were found in nearby bodies of water.

Towns like Islip and Brookhaven have wisely adopted moratoriums on the development of such facilities. However, New Yorkers cannot rely on a patchwork of local regulations. Statewide action is needed to install the necessary safeguards that ensures the safety of our communities before any further development is continued. We cannot afford to wait for an event like this to turn deadly before we take action.

Michael P. Mezzacappa is a partner and general counsel with Coffey Modica, representing clients in litigation involving lithium-ion battery explosions and fires.

advancing legislation through the state government. A bill currently exists to do so, sponsored

by Queens Assemblyman Sam Berger.

With New York City’s IHRAbased protections now stripped away and no statewide standard yet enacted, Jewish communities are left more exposed at the very moment when targeted hostility—including anti-Zionist campaigns that cross into antisemitic intimidation—is accelerating.

For these reasons, the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center views the repeal of the IHRA definition and the restoration of BDS activity within city government as profoundly dangerous steps that normalize discrimination against Jews and undermine the safety and dignity of all Jewish New Yorkers.

Alan Mindel, Chairman, Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County

Dear Editor: We knew candidate Zohran Mamdani was Marxian, race-obsessed, and anti-Israel; now we know that Mayor Mamdani will actually enact controversial policies that reflect his radical outlook on New York and America.

The socialist wunderkind just launched his administration by stripping protections from a group of New Yorkers under continuous threat—Jews —making it clear that Mr. Mamdani’s political preferences will materially affect the safety of New Yorkers he governs. Who’s next?

Expect more radicalism from Mr. Mamdani. And don’t forget in the months ahead who brought socialism to the five boroughs: New York Democrats.

God help them. God help us.

—Gerard Kassar, Chairman, New York State Conservative Party

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LOCAL

The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

The South Shore Press Newspaper Established 1984 - Published Weekly

State Funding for Local Libraries

An Official Paper of Suffolk County Address Service Requested The South Shore Press Newspaper (ISSN#1531-4391 or USPS# 019051) published weekly By

By Sam Hogan Three libraries serving Suffolk communities will receive more than $568,000 in funding through the New York State Aid for Library Construction Program, supporting safety upgrades, infrastructure repairs, and improved community spaces.

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who helped secure the funding, said the investments will go toward ensuring libraries remain safe, reliable, and responsive to local needs.

“Our libraries are essential community resources—places where families learn, connect, and access vital services,” DeStefano said. “This funding will help ensure these facilities remain safe, reliable, and equipped to meet the needs of our communities, while protecting taxpayer investments in public infrastructure.”

The Mastics–Moriches–Shirley Community Library will receive $275,000 to renovate its parking lot, enhance elevator emergency communication and security systems, and install new shelving, furniture, and equipment for its maker space, café, and media room at its Shirley location. The improvements are intended to boost accessibility, safety, and programming opportunities for patrons of all ages.

South Country Library in Bellport will receive $100,000 to remove and replace approximately 22,000 square feet of aging roofing, including both flat

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News Director Robert Chartuk MMS Public Library

Local libraries to get state funding.

roofing and asphalt shingles. The project addresses long-term maintenance concerns and aims to prevent weather-related damage that could disrupt library services.

The Suffolk Cooperative Library System will receive $193,522 to install a full-building standby generator at its Bellport facility, ensuring uninterrupted operations and access to critical services during power outages and emergencies.

DeStefano thanked local library staff

and trustees for their work on the projects and acknowledged the New York State Library for its role in reviewing and approving the funding applications.

“These investments improve safety, reliability, and accessibility while ensuring our libraries can continue serving the public—even during emergencies,” DeStefano said. “I’m proud to support funding that strengthens these community anchors and delivers real benefits for Suffolk County families.”

Sportsman’s Club Continues Tradition of Fundraising, Giving

By Robert Chartuk The Peconic River Sportsman’s Club in Manorville recently raised an additional $68,100 for breast cancer research, treatment, and support organizations, bringing the club’s total contributions for the cause to more than $400,000.

This year’s beneficiaries include the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition, Lucia’s Angels, and the North Fork Breast Cancer Coalition. Checks were presented to representatives of each organization during a special luncheon held just before Christmas, marking another milestone in the club’s long-running commitment to community-based charitable giving.

One of the oldest and most civic-minded sportsmen’s organizations in New York, the club places public service at the core of its mission. “Giving back to the Long Island community—especially through critical fundraising for worthy causes—is a core value of our club,” said Vice President Joe Hocker. “These organizations are doing outstanding work, and we are proud to support them.”

The fundraiser was organized by Director Ed Walden, Director Frank Laurita, committee chairs Natalie Lugo and Warren Busch, and Sporting Chairman Sal Echel. Numerous additional club members also volunteered their time and effort, contributing to the smooth operation and overall success of the event.

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Peconic River Sportsman’s Club

The Peconic River Sportsmen’s Club raised $400,000 for local charities.

Founded on the principles of sportsmanship, conservation, and fellowship, the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club has built a reputation that extends far beyond outdoor recreation. Its guiding philosophy of “preserving the past and enriching the future” is reflected not only in its support of outdoor traditions, but also in its engagement with local and regional causes.

Beyond organized fundraising, club members regularly contribute through volunteer work, donations, and hands-on assistance to charitable initiatives across

Long Island. This sustained involvement has helped foster strong relationships with nonprofit organizations and reinforced the club’s role as a dependable civic partner.

Through decades of service and generosity, the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club has demonstrated how an organization can make a lasting impact. By combining tradition, volunteerism, and a commitment to paying it forward, the club continues to set a high standard for community responsibility locally.

Photographers & Reporters Robert Chartuk, Howard Roark, Stefan Mychajliw, Tom Barton, Nancy Burner, Rich Acritelli, Tara D’Amato, Donna Rolando Sales Manager Fred Towle First Copy Free. Each Additional Copy is 75¢ $9.00 Monthly Subscription $100.00 One Year Subscription (Print, Digital & Newsletter) $150.00 One Year Premium Subscription (ALL ACCESS - Print, Digital, Exclusive Digital & Newsletter) Copyright© 2025 South Shore Press, LLC. All rights reserved. Material appearing herein may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in any form. Copying part or all of the editorial or graphic arts in any machinereadable form, making multiple printouts thereof or other uses of the work product contained herein is expressly prohibited and is inconsistent with all applicable copyright laws.

Advertisers purchase space and circulation only. All property rights to any advertisements produced for the advertisers by South Shore Press, Inc. using art work and/or typography furnished or arranged by South Shore Press, LLC. shall be the property of South Shore Press, LLC. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced or assigned without the express written consent of South Shore Press, LLC. South Shore Press, LLC. assumes no financial responsibility for errors beyond the cost of the actual space occupied by the error. Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 431, Shirley, N.Y. 11967.

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Serving the Communities of The Village of Bellport, Brookhaven, Center Moriches, Centereach, Coram, East Moriches, East Patchogue, Eastport, East Shoreham, Farmingville, Gordon Heights, Lake Ronkonkoma, Manorville, Medford, Mastic, The Village of Mastic Beach, Middle Island, Miller Place, Moriches, Mount Sinai, North Bellport, The Village of Patchogue, Port Jefferson Station, The Village of Port Jefferson, Ridge, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Selden, Shirley, Shoreham, Smith Point, Sound Beach, Speonk, Terryville, Wading River, & Yaphank.

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

LOCAL

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Police Foundation Hosts “Breakfast with the Blue” Fundraiser

By Robert Chartuk Police officers and community supporters will gather for “Breakfast With The Blue” on Saturday, January 10, to raise funds for the Suffolk County Police Foundation. The pancake breakfast fundraiser runs from 8–10 a.m. at three Applebee’s locations in Miller Place, Commack, and Farmingdale, with proceeds going to the foundation’s mission of supporting police officers, their families, and community programs.

Tickets are $16 in advance and $20 at the door. Attendees will enjoy pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, and juice served by Suffolk County Police Department officers and Police Explorers.

The Suffolk County Police

Foundation provides vital assistance to officers and their families during times of need and supports programs that build community trust and connections. Funds raised through events like “Breakfast With The Blue” help sustain those efforts and strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and the public.

The foundation’s Lou Tutone said the event is about more than a meal. “This breakfast brings people together for a great cause,” he noted. “It’s an opportunity for residents to meet officers in a friendly setting while supporting the foundation’s work for our community.”

Organizers say the fundraiser is family-friendly and open to

the public, encouraging community members to start 2026 on a positive note by supporting local law enforcement and charitable initiatives. Police Explorers, who are young people interested in law enforcement careers, will also assist in serving guests and engaging with attendees.

Community members can purchase tickets in advance online or at participating Applebee’s locations the day of the event. Supporters say events like this deepen ties between residents and officers and highlight the foundation’s ongoing work to support public safety and strengthen community relations across Suffolk County.

For tickets, visit: www.breakfastwiththeblue.eventbrite.com

Breakfast with the Blue

Suffolk County Police Foundation

South Shore Press Story Leads to $5,000 Donation

By Robert Chartuk

Robert Chartuk

UMC Thrift Store receives $5,000 donation to help recover from earlier theft.

After reading about a brazen theft at the Center Moriches United Methodist Church thrift store in the South Shore Press, Dr. Harvey Manes didn’t just shake his head in disbelief. He opened his heart and made a $5,000 donation to help the ministry recover and continue serving the community.

Thieves forced their way into the volunteer-run store, pried open a safe, and stole more than $2,300 in proceeds and donations. The funds help support church operations and community outreach programs relied on by local families.

“It is with great pleasure and honor that I write this sincere note of thanks

for your generous gift,” wrote Thomas R. Muller, president of the church’s board of trustees, in a letter to Dr. Manes, a retired South Shore orthopedic surgeon. “Your thoughtful, caring, and supportive donation will greatly aid our recovery and means a great deal to the entire congregation.”

The article struck a nerve with the philanthropist. “When I read about what happened, I felt compelled to help,” he said. “This is a church and thrift store that have served the community for decades. I was glad to do something meaningful after learning how important the store is to so many people.”

The donation was made through the Manes Peace Prize Foundation, an organization founded by Dr. Manes that

has supported charitable causes around the world.

The thrift store has operated for about 40 years and is staffed entirely by volunteers. Proceeds help offset rising fuel and utility costs while supporting ministry work tied to the historic Main Street church, founded in 1839.

Muller said the donation was especially uplifting after a difficult moment. “This church has served literally thousands of people over the years,” he wrote. “Support like this reminds us how strong and caring our community truly is.”

Manes said he hopes his contribution encourages others to stand behind local institutions. “Good things happen when neighbors look out for one another,” he said.

Family Service League Marks 100 Years on Long Island

By Robert Chartuk Family Service League will mark 100 years of service to Long Island communities in 2026, celebrating a century of providing care, support, and hope to individuals, families, and children facing life’s most difficult challenges.

Founded in 1926, Family Service League has evolved alongside the communities it serves, responding to changing needs with programs focused on behavioral health, substance use treatment, housing assistance, family support, and crisis intervention. Today, the organization reaches approximately 60,000 people each year through more than 60 programs offered at 20 locations across Long Island.

The centennial year will also mark a major leadership transition. President and CEO Karen

Boorshtein is preparing to retire, with new leadership set to guide the organization into its next chapter.

“As I prepare to retire during this centennial year, I am confident that new leadership will build on this foundation and continue advancing our mission,” Boorshtein said. “We remain focused on expanding access, strengthening partnerships, and staying responsive to community needs.”

To commemorate the milestone, Family Service League will host a series of signature events throughout 2026. Great Chefs of Long Island will be held March 23 at Crest Hollow Country Club, moving to spring to encourage broader participation. The annual Walk for Wellness will take place Sept. 20 at Belmont Lake State Park and will expand to include a Health Fair offering resources and

family-friendly activities.

A Centennial Gala on Nov. 5 at The Heritage Club will serve as the culminating celebration, bringing together community leaders, partners, and supporters to honor a century of service.

The organization is also launching The 1926 Club, a monthly giving program named for its founding year, along with a Centennial Brick Campaign that allows supporters to sponsor commemorative bricks honoring loved ones or milestones.

While the centennial reflects on past accomplishments, FSL leaders emphasize the future. “Reaching 100 years is an incredible honor,” Boorshtein said. “But our work is far from done. The next century will be defined by compassion, resilience, and belief in the strength of our community.”

A century of service.

Family Service League

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SANTOS UNCENSORED

BY GEORGE SANTOS

For far too long, the Western Hemisphere tolerated a narco-dictator masquerading as a president while an entire nation starved, fled, or disappeared.

Nicolás Maduro did not simply fail Venezuela. He occupied it.

He weaponized food, crushed dissent, partnered with America’s enemies, and turned one of the richest nations on Earth into a humanitarian graveyard.

Communism did exactly what it always does. It destroyed everything it touched.

Now that Maduro has finally been removed from power and placed under United States

custody, let’s be clear: this is not imperialism. This is accountability. This moment matters not just for Venezuela, but for the United States as well.

A free Venezuela means a more stable hemisphere. It means reduced mass migration, weakened cartel networks, and a decisive blow to the authoritarian axis supported by Cuba, Russia, China, and Iran.

America is safer when tyrants learn that geography no longer guarantees immunity. Oceans no longer protect despots, and that is a good thing.

For the Venezuelan people,

Kathryn Nocerino The Things BySome people go to the supermarket and buy chicken nuggets People Eat for dinner; others hunt for their

Undercover New York

food. You will find many traditional American “folk” recipes for wild game such as deer (venison), pigeon (squab), squirrel, and rabbit. Since these animals are not found on the average American table, quite a few people are shocked when you mention them.

When I was at Yaddo, one of the male household staff spoke— when he spoke at all—of hunting

The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

Page 7

The Fall of a Narco Dictator this moment represents something even greater. It represents hope.

Hope that exile may finally end.

Hope that political prisoners can come home.

Hope that children can grow up without indoctrination, ration cards, or fear.

Freedom is contagious. Once it takes root, no regime—no matter how brutal—can fully suppress it again.

Let’s also be honest about how this happened. It did not come from diplomatic workshops, international panels, or strong-

ly worded letters. It happened because strength still matters.

Resolve still matters. Moral clarity still matters.

Which brings me to President Trump.

If America can act decisively against a communist dictator in our own hemisphere, then we must stop pretending the world’s largest state sponsor of terror deserves endless patience.

Iran’s regime brutalizes its people, funds terror across the globe, chants “Death to America,” and races toward nuclear capability. The Iranian people, like the Venezuelans, are not our

enemy. Their rulers are.

The lesson is simple. Tyrants do not fall because we negotiate harder. They fall when the free world stops appeasing them and starts confronting them.

With Maduro’s reign over, let this serve as a warning to every dictator still watching from palaces and bunkers. America is done pretending. Freedom has a spine again, and it is about time.

As for Maduro, he’ll need to get used to the accommodations of the Bureau of Prisons—a far different reality from the mansion living and steakhouse dining he was used to.

and cooking squirrel. He was a Saratoga local.

A friend of mine lived with an Egyptian banker in North Bergen. Judith told me of a dinner at a neighbor’s house. The lady of the house was an Egyptian import. She served a wonderful dish of fowl cooked en croûte (inside a crisp shell). Let us call the hostess “Ayesha.” Judith asked Ayesha where she got the protein.

Judith expected her to say, “Rock Cornish game hen.” Ayesha, who spoke little English, said, “I

show!” She opened the back door and pointed down. The backyard was filled with—yes, kiddies— common garden-variety pigeons, innocently strutting around the way they do. Ayesha said, “I catch, I wring neck, I pull out feathers…”

Judith fled straight into the bathroom and lost the entire meal.

Lots of people fish. Nobody objects to that. The French eat snails. The Italians eat octopi.

Nobody makes a peep. But all you have to do is try to eat a pigeon, and all hell breaks loose.

I tend to avoid four-legged game animals due to the virtually undetectable presence of BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or “mad cow disease”). I once had bigos (pron. bee-GOASH), or “hunter’s stew,” at a Czech restaurant called Ruc, and nothing happened to me. I guess I was just lucky. My mother told me the Poles have an almost identical recipe.

Go into your local park with a club and catch your dinner!

OBITUARY

William K. Miller, A Legacy of Community Service

By Robert Chartuk William K. Miller, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and longtime resident of Coram, passed away peacefully at the age of 77. A man defined by service, integrity, and quiet leadership, Bill leaves behind a legacy rooted in family, community, and education.

A retired commercial banker, Bill devoted much of his professional life to public service after his banking career, working with children in the Town of Brookhaven. His commitment to education and civic responsibility was especially evident through his decades of involvement in local schools. He served on the Board of the Longwood Central School District for 24 years, helping guide generations of students and educators with steady judgment and genuine care.

At the time of his passing, Bill was Vice President of Eastern Suffolk BOCES and Chairman of its Legislative Committee, roles in which he advocated tirelessly for students, schools, and taxpayers across the region. He was also a past president and board member of the Central Brookhaven Lions Club and a Director Emeritus of Colonial Youth & Family Services, reflecting a lifelong dedication to volunteerism and helping neighbors in need.

Above all, Bill was a family man.

He shared many loving years with his wife, Jeanne (née Winheim), building a home filled with warmth, laughter, and

William K. Miller

Miller Family

enduring love. He was a proud father to his sons, Kenneth Miller (Charisse) and Kristopher Miller (Adriana), and a deeply devoted grandfather to Ryan, Riley, Kenzie, and Lincoln Bear, who brought him endless joy.

Family and friends gathered to honor Bill’s life at O.B. Davis Funeral Homes in Miller Place, followed by a Catholic funeral service at the Chapel at St. Charles in Port Jefferson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Shepherd.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story in the Dec. 31, 2025 newspaper contained an incorrect photo of William K. Miller. The correct photo is shown here.

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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WANTED

SNOW PLOW CONTRACTORS

Rates Starting at $119/hr For more information on our increased competitive rates, call the Brookhaven Highway Department at 631.451.9230.

Daniel P. Losquadro Superintendent of Highways

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Page 9

Unkechaug Nation Returns Sacred Ceremonies to Manor of St. George

LOCAL

By Robert Chartuk Members of the Unkechaug Nation marked the winter solstice and honored the whale during a ceremonial gathering at the Manor of St. George, returning Indigenous spiritual traditions to a site deeply tied to their ancestral history.

Unkechaug Chief Harry Wallace said the ceremony reflected an enduring bond between the Nation and the Manor, which sits on original Unkechaug land in Mastic. “There’s always been a connection,” Wallace said. “Our people worked there, celebrated there, and maintained relations with the Manor from the very beginning of colonial times.”

The winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year, holds special spiritual meaning. Wallace said the

ceremony was held to honor the whale, an animal central to Unkechaug culture and identity.

“It’s a very spiritual time for us,” he said. “This was the first time we conducted a solstice ceremony at the Manor, and that made it especially meaningful.”

The whale ceremony included prayer, the offering of traditional tobacco, the smoking of a sacred pipe, and a symbolic offering to the ceremonial fire. Shane Weeks, who helps lead whale response ceremonies on Long Island, said the ritual reflects centuries of respect for balance and sustainability. “Whales are a huge part of who we are as a people,” the Shinnecock Nation member said. “We’ve honored them for thousands of years, long before commercial whaling changed the oceans.”

Manor representative John

Scott Prudenti said the event reflects a renewed and respectful relationship between the estate and the Unkechaugs.

“We’re working closely together to reconnect and strengthen a relationship that goes back generations,” Prudenti said.

“It’s important that the Manor acknowledges that history and supports these traditions.”

Both Wallace and Weeks noted that bringing the ceremonies to the Manor represents healing and continuity. “This is about honoring our ancestors and carrying our responsibilities forward,” Wallace said. “Being welcomed here again matters.”

Organizers said they hope future ceremonies will continue at the 127-acre estate, which has a panoramic view of Narrow and Bellport bays near Smith Point.

Manor of St. George Museum

Artifact of the local whaling industry from 1861.

Community Spirit, History Shine at Ketcham Inn

By Robert Chartuk The glow of candlelight, the hum of live music, and the weight of history combined to make the Ketcham Inn’s New Year’s Eve gathering a memorable and joyful way to welcome 2026.

The fundraiser, sponsored by the Ketcham Inn Foundation, invited guests to step back in time inside the meticulously preserved tavern, now a local history museum and one of Center Moriches’ most treasured landmarks. Hors d’oeuvres, spirits, and live music by 2 EZ filled the rooms where generations of travelers, townspeople, and even the nation’s founding fathers once gathered.

The evening was graciously hosted by Ketcham Inn Foundation Board Member Carol Valone and President Bert Seides, whose tireless preservation work continues to shape the cultural heart of the Moriches Bay area. Seides has been busy overseeing restoration projects across multiple historic sites, advancing heritage tourism plans, and guiding community beautification efforts that link the inn to nearby landmarks such as the John Scudder and Mary Pelletreau Havens Homestead, Mary E. Bell House, and the former Smith duck farm.

Center Moriches resident Suzanne McKeon of Plum Cottage Design said the evening felt “perfectly orchestrated,” praising every detail of the event. “The music was beautiful, the candlelit setting was stunning, and the

Robert Chartuk

Joy and Terence McCabe of Eastport bring in the New Year at the Ketcham Inn benefit.

food was top notch,” McKeon gushed. “The entire evening was just a delight. We had such a good time, and it was very picturesque walking out into the New Year with snow lightly falling.”

McKeon, herself a longtime supporter of local preservation, reflected on the power of being inside a such an historic space. “Each room just takes you back,” she said. “It’s lovely, really lovely. I don’t think Bert gets enough credit for how hard he works to keep the history of our little town alive.”

That sense of community was echoed in the stories behind the artifacts housed at the museum. Donations from neighbors, including the Chartuk family, illustrate how personal history and community heritage often intertwine.

Among them is a Colonial-era copper pot found decades ago

by Frances Chartuk while treasure hunting in an old field, and a kitchen cupboard that once stood for generations in the family home. Inside its door is a hand-painted globe drawn in 1930 by Michael Chartuk as a child studying geography.

“These pieces belong here,” said Robert Chartuk, who once served alongside Seides on Brookhaven Town’s Historic District Advisory Committee. “Bert has an incredible instinct for protecting and preserving the area’s historical integrity and community spirit. He understands that the inn is a welcoming place for everyone, especially the neighbors.”

The connection between the

Robert Chartuk

Ketcham Inn Foundation President Bert Seides, left, collaborates with Steve Scerri, superintendent of Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, in a beautification project.

Chartuk and Seides families runs deep. Robert Chartuk and his siblings all studied chemistry at Center Moriches High School under Bert’s father, Stanley Seides, a beloved local teacher remembered fondly by generations of students.

Guest John Montecalvo, another Center Moriches graduate, captured the spirit of the night with a sense of awe and celebration. “It’s not every New Year’s Eve you get to party in a room where Thom-

as Jefferson and James Madison once stood,” he said. “You could feel the history around you, and yet it was warm, lively, and full of life. That’s a rare combination.”

As midnight approached, guests raised their glasses not just to a new year, but to a shared commitment to honoring the past. At the Ketcham Inn, history isn’t frozen in time — it’s alive, welcoming, and still bringing people together.

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

LOCAL

By Robert Chartuk When seconds count in a medical emergency, Bellport High School now has dozens of students prepared to step forward and save lives.

Forty-one students recently earned CPR certification through the health elective Adulting 101, mastering essential response techniques used in first aid emergencies.

The certification took place during the school day and was

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Bellport Students Ready to Act in CPR Emergencies fully embedded into the Adulting 101 curriculum, marking the first time students have had the opportunity to become CPR certified through a school-based program. By offering the training as part of a regular class, the school ensured students could learn critical emergency skills without needing to seek outside instruction.

The course is open to any student who has successfully completed general health, providing broad access to the

life-saving program. During the certification process, students learned how to respond to cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies, including how to assess a scene, evaluate a patient’s condition, and take appropriate action while help is on the way.

Students practiced chest compressions, proper response techniques, and decision-making under pressure, building both confidence and readiness.

“When students become CPR

certified, they become ‘capeless heroes,’” teacher William Champlin said. “They are individuals who are capable of saving a life in the event of an emergency and responding calmly and effectively when it matters most.”

School officials say the program reflects a growing emphasis on real-world skills that prepare students not just for adulthood, but for moments when quick thinking and action can make all the difference.

Photo illustration

Learning lifesaving CPR skills.

Center Moriches Students Shine in Winter Concert Series

By Robert Chartuk

Center Moriches Schools

Center Moriches students perform during their holiday concert series.

Student musicians across the Center Moriches School District wrapped up the year on a high note, filling auditoriums with music, energy, and holiday spirit during a series of well-attended winter concerts.

Across three evenings of performances, students from the elementary, middle, and high school levels showcased their talents, drawing families, friends, and community members together to celebrate the season and the district’s strong commitment to music education.

The performances opened with

the Clayton Huey Elementary School winter concert. Young performers took the stage with confidence and enthusiasm, delighting the audience with cheerful holiday selections that reflected their growing musical abilities and joy for performing.

Middle School students performed in the district’s new high school auditorium. The concert highlighted a wide range of musical styles and demonstrated the students’ increasing skill, discipline, and poise as performers.

The series concluded on December 18 with the High School winter concert. Musicians delivered a polished and expres-

sive performance, featuring more advanced arrangements that reflected years of practice and dedication to their craft.

“These concerts are a wonderful reminder of the talent, hard work, and creativity of our students,” said Dr. Ricardo Soto, district superintendent. “We are grateful to our music teachers, staff, and families for their continued support in making these performances such a meaningful part of our school community.”

The annual winter concerts remain a cherished tradition, celebrating student achievement and bringing the community together through music.

Barile Recognized for Decades of Service to Scouts

By Robert Chartuk Steve Barile of Mastic Beach was honored at Baiting Hollow Scout Camp in Calverton for his many years of service to the camp. The Baiting Hollow Alumni Association presented Barile with its Alumni Service Award, which is given annually to an individual who has gone above and beyond for Baiting Hollow and the Scouts the camp serves.

This year marks Barile’s 24th year working on the summer camp staff.

Over the years, Barile, 46, has served in a variety of roles, including assistant cook, archery director, C.O.P.E. (Chal-

lenging Outdoor Personal Experience) and climbing director, support staff member, and shooting sports director.

Barile’s service to Baiting Hollow includes volunteering year-round to help prepare for and run activities and special events, such as the Baiting Halloween haunted trail and December’s Brunch with Santa, as well as assisting with maintaining and improving camp facilities. His other volunteer experience includes serving as a past chief of the Mastic Beach Ambulance Company.

A 1998 William Floyd High School graduate, Barile is the technical director at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson.

Barile is also an Eagle Scout, and he earned the Vigil Honor, the highest honor awarded by Scouting’s national honor society, the Order of the Arrow.

“I love what I do, and I’m very grateful that I’m able to help mold our Scouts to become leaders and good people,” Barile said. “This camp is like a second—and sometimes first—home for me, and I hope I’m able to continue doing what I love.”

The Baiting Hollow Alumni Association Fellowship Dinner on January 3 was the first event marking the camp’s yearlong 100th anniversary celebration.

Baiting Hollow Alumni Association

Honoree Steve Barile, center, flanked by Baiting Hollow Alumni Association cochairs Chris Philp, left, and Ryan Person, right.

WellLife’s Savage Recognized for 18 Years of Service

By Robert Chartuk

Office of Senator Murray

Senator Dean Murray and WellLife Network Office Manager Kelly Savage.

Senator Dean Murray surprised WellLife Network Office Manager Kelly Savage with a State Senate 2025 Commendation Award and Certificate, recognizing her nearly two decades of dedicated service to the organization.

The Commendation Award is presented to individuals who demonstrate exceptional, selfless service to their communities.

Savage was honored in front of members of WellLife Network’s executive team and staff for her heartfelt dedication during her

18 years with the organization, particularly within the Children and Family Services Division.

“Kelly is the glue that holds WellLife together,” Murray said during the presentation. “She doesn’t do this work for recognition. She does it because she genuinely cares about people, and that kind of commitment makes a real difference every single day.”

Murray praised Savage’s behind-the-scenes leadership, noting that her professionalism, compassion, and reliability have helped ensure families and children receive consistent support

and services. “Organizations such as WellLife depend on people like Kelly,” he said. “She shows up, she follows through, and she leads by example.”

Savage, visibly moved by the surprise recognition, was applauded by colleagues who credited her with creating a welcoming and supportive workplace culture.

“WellLife’s mission is only possible because of people who give their time, energy, and heart,” Murray added. “Kelly Savage represents the very best of public service, and it was an honor to recognize her today.”

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Leadership, Sacrifice During the Battle of the Bulge

HISTORY LESSONS

BY RICHARD ACRITELLI “If those Hun bastards want war in the raw, then that’s the way we’ll give it to them!”

—General George S. Patton Personally making all the orders to drive his forces north through Luxembourg, Patton restructured, resupplied, and continually pushed his men forward toward Bastogne.

While Patton was perhaps the finest armor commander ever in the Army, his subordinate, Colonel Creighton Abrams, was equally formidable. Patton called Abrams one of the best tank leaders of the war, and later, at the end of the Vietnam War, Abrams became Chief of Staff of the Army.

Abrams was born in Massachusetts on September 15, 1914, and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1936. Unlike Patton’s “spit and polish” image, Abrams did not care for the rigid discipline of West Point, received demerits, but was a born leader who rose through the Corps of Cadets.

Twenty-one years after Eisenhower’s West Point graduating “Class the Stars Fell On,” Abrams’ fellow graduates fought in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, with sixty of them promoted to general. A former cavalry officer, Abrams witnessed the late-1930s outbreak of hostilities in Europe and quickly recognized the future importance of tanks in warfare. He was known for his leadership in the 4th Armored Division, as he and Patton formed the team that broke the German “stranglehold” on Bastogne. Abrams was a tough, uncompromising officer, and one colleague once remarked, “That son of a bitch will be Chief of Staff of the Army someday if he just keeps his nose clean.”

Commanding the 37th Tank Battalion, Abrams disengaged from a battle 125 miles away to assault the southern portion of the German bulge. His tanks struggled along treacherous, icy roads, but

FOG OF WAR AND HUMANITY

BY ROBERT CHARTUK

A recent episode of The Fog of War and Humanity, produced by the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County and hosted by Rich Acritelli, examined some of the leasttaught atrocities of World War II through an in-depth conversation with researcher Jenny Chan.

Chan, a nonprofit founder and archival researcher, shared how her work grew from childhood stories told by her grandmother, who survived the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong. As a young girl raised in San Francisco after emigrating from China at age 10, Chan said those stories were

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he kept both armor and infantry moving toward Bastogne. When his tanks fired, ice clouds formed from the blasts, making it difficult to determine whether they had struck the enemy. One of Abrams’ officers bluntly described the conditions: “…It was cold as a bastard.”

Visibility was so poor that crews could barely see the tank ahead of them, yet confidence in Abrams’ leadership never wavered.

On December 17, 1944, near Malmedy, Belgium, the WaffenSS and elements of the German Wehrmacht murdered captured American prisoners. Hitler permitted such atrocities in an effort to instill fear along American lines.

At the start of this surprise attack, Battery B of the 285th American Field Artillery Observation Battalion was heading toward St. Vith when its men were captured.

Colonel Joachim Peiper, a former adjutant to Heinrich Himmler and a notoriously brutal officer, led the German 1st SS Panzer Division, Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler.

More than 20,000 prisoners of war were taken during the early stages of the battle, making it one of the costliest engagements of the war. At the Baugnez crossroads, 113 American soldiers were captured; 84 were murdered in what became known as the Malmedy Massacre. After the shooting stopped, German soldiers kicked wounded prisoners in the testicles to determine if they were still alive. If they moved, they were executed. Some Americans survived by playing dead and later crawled to safety.

In 1946, at Dachau Concentration Camp, Peiper and seventy-two of his men were put on trial. While many were sentenced to death, none were executed. By 1956, the last remaining prisoners convicted of this war crime were released.

Growing up near Highland Falls, New York, the town

Wikipedia

Patton’s 1st Armored Division tank in Bastogne.

surrounding the United States Military Academy, actor Charles Durning was a decorated veteran who later starred in more than one hundred films. One of nine children, Durning lost five sisters at an early age to scarlet fever and smallpox. His mother laundered clothes for West Point cadets, and his father, an Irish immigrant, became a U.S. citizen by enlisting in the Army. A wounded World War I veteran, his father had been exposed to mustard gas and died at a young age.

Durning later shared the screen with Robert Redford, Nick Nolte, Burt Reynolds, and Dustin Hoffman, earning nine Emmy nominations and two Academy Award nominations. He left high school early and was drafted into the Army at age twenty. One of the first Americans to land on Omaha Beach, Durning saw many soldiers killed around him. He killed seven German soldiers, was wounded by machine-gun fire, and later suffered shrapnel wounds from a land mine.

After months of recovery, Durning returned to the line during the Battle of the Bulge, where he was stabbed multiple times by a German soldier. He defended himself by killing his attacker with a rock. Shortly afterward, he was captured by the Germans and survived the Malmedy massacre. By the end of the fighting, serving with the 398th Infantry Regiment, he was wounded again and saw the war’s

end in Germany. Private First Class Durning received three Purple Hearts, a Silver Star, and a Bronze Star. He died in 2012 at age 89 and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

As Eisenhower worried about the survival of the 101st Airborne, Patton believed the German offensive was losing momentum due to shortages of men and supplies.

Battling both enemy forces and brutal weather, Patton addressed his troops: “To each officer and soldier…

I wish a Merry Christmas. I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty, and skill in battle. We march in our might to complete victory. May God’s blessing rest upon each of you on this Christmas Day.” He also ordered his chaplain to compose a prayer: “Grant us fair weather for battle.

Graciously harken to us as soldiers who call upon Thee, that armed with Thy power we may advance from victory to victory, crush the oppression and wickedness of our enemies, and establish Thy justice among men and nations. Amen.”

Patton’s operations slowly gained ground, though at great cost. The 4th Armored Division lost ten tanks during the fighting, and fears persisted that the Third Army would arrive too late to save the 101st. As Christmas approached, surrounded troops in Bastogne shook hands and prepared for what they believed would be their last stand.

Abrams pressed his tanks forward and narrowly escaped death when his jeep struck an American land mine. Improved air cover soon followed, with P-47s striking German positions and C-47 cargo planes dropping supplies to the 101st—some falling into enemy hands due to the proximity of German lines.

Outside Bastogne, Abrams counted on just twenty tanks to

capture the German-held town of Sibret. With the situation deteriorating, he made the independent decision to bypass the town and drive directly into Bastogne.

Though it meant disobeying orders and risking court-martial, one of his tank commanders later said, “It was then or never. And he took the calculated risk.”

Pushing through enemy positions, the Germans attempted to slow the advance by throwing land mines into the path of the American armor. When Abrams’ tanks finally reached American lines, the exhausted soldiers of the 101st were so dug in that they initially refused to leave their foxholes. Only after prodding from the 4th Armored Division did they emerge to welcome the tanks into Bastogne.

Eisenhower continually pressed Patton for updates, and Patton famously messaged General McAuliffe: “Xmas Eve present coming up. Hold on.” Patton also ordered hot turkey dinners for his soldiers on Christmas. On December 26, he delivered Eisenhower a late Christmas gift—the corridor into Bastogne created by Abrams’ daring action.

Though controversial and nearly sent home by Eisenhower and General George C. Marshall, Patton’s brilliance in armored warfare proved decisive. With the British unwilling to mount largescale operations, the Third Army’s rapid disengagement and redeployment into the Bulge campaign proved critical. Writing to his wife Beatrice, Patton reflected: “The relief of Bastogne is the most brilliant operation we have thus far performed and is, in my opinion, the most outstanding achievement of this war. Now the enemy must dance to our tune, not we to his. In the morning, we are starting on a new series of attacks which may well be decisive. This is my biggest battle.”

Fog Of War Episode Confronts WWII Crimes in Asia largely absent from American classrooms, leading her to dismiss them until physical evidence— photos and wartime currency— surfaced after her grandmother’s death.

That discovery pushed Chan into years of research on Japan’s wartime conduct in Asia, including the Rape of Nanking and Unit 731, a covert biological weapons program that conducted lethal human experimentation. Chan described archival findings showing that Unit 731 operated in occupied Manchuria, using Chinese civilians, Koreans, Russians, and evidence suggests Allied prison-

ers of war, as test subjects.

According to Chan, U.S. intelligence seized Japanese war crime data after the war and granted immunity to senior scientists in exchange for their research, allowing many perpetrators to reintegrate into Japanese society as doctors, politicians, and business leaders. She noted that Cold War priorities often eclipsed accountability.

The discussion also traced the road to the 1937 massacre in Nanking, beginning with months of brutal fighting in Shanghai that fueled Japanese retaliation.

Chan cited estimates of roughly

300,000 civilians killed and described how violence was publicly glorified, including documented killing contests reported in Japanese newspapers.

Acritelli and Chan also explored broader themes of historical memory, contrasting Germany’s reckoning with its past to Japan’s ongoing denial and textbook minimization. They noted how economic pressures during the Great Depression led the United States to overlook atrocities, even as incidents like the bombing of the USS Panay foreshadowed Pearl Harbor.

The episode marked the first

Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau

Jenny Chan

part of a multi-segment series, with future discussions set to address comfort women, wartime diplomacy, and the long-term consequences of silence.

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

LOCAL

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The Ultimate Owl Experience

By Robin Penny-Leuthardt For wildlife photographer Robin Penny-Leuthardt, recent outings on Fire Island became what she calls her Ultimate Owl Experience, offering a rare and unforgettable opportunity to capture stunning

images of snowy owls in their natural habitat. Set against the dunes and open sky, her photos reflect the richness of Long Island’s South Shore wildlife and underscore how patience and timing can reward birdwatchers with truly extraordinary moments.

Robin Penny-Leuthardt Robin Penny-Leuthardt

Robin Penny Leuthardt

Robin Penny-Leuthardt

Snowy owl in flight.

Robin Penny Leuthardt

Easy glider.

Snowy owl taking off.

Robin Penny-Leuthardt

A snowy owl stares down a photographer before making a run at her and tapping her on the head as she fell backwards taking photos in the “Ultimate Owl Experience.”

Robin Penny Leuthardt

Wings beating.

Robin Penny Leuthardt

A snowy owl yawns high on a tree near Moriches Inlet.

Snowy owl on Fire Island.

Robin Penny-Leuthardt

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

2026 Changes to Look Out For

ASK NANCY

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

Q: In 2026,

are there changes to estate planning and administration in New York?

A:

Each new year brings changes from both the federal and state governments that can affect estate planning, estate administration, and elder planning. Understanding which rules apply federally and which apply at the New York level is especially important.

At the federal level, uncertainty surrounded estate tax rules heading into 2026.

Before the enactment of the Big Beautiful Bill Act in July 2025, the federal estate tax exemption was scheduled to sunset to approximately $7,000,000 per person, adjusted for inflation—a sharp

reduction from the 2025 exemption of $13,990,000. The Act eliminated the sunset and set a new federal estate tax exemption of $15,000,000 per person. While described as “permanent,” future legislative changes remain possible.

The federal annual gift tax exclusion for 2026 remains at $19,000 per recipient. Gifts above this amount generally require the filing of a gift tax return and reduce the donor’s lifetime estate and gift tax exemption, though they do not usually result in immediate tax. Careful planning is especially important for larger lifetime gifts.

Federal elder law rules also continue to evolve. For 2026, Medicare Part D includes a $2,100 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug expenses and a maximum deductible of $615, although some plans offer lower or no deductibles.

There will also be fewer Medicare Advantage plans available nationwide, with modest premium increases.

New York maintains its own estate tax system, separate from federal law. The New York estate tax exemption

for 2026 is projected to be $7,350,000, an increase of $190,000 from 2025. Unlike the federal system, New York does not have a gift tax.

However, certain lifetime gifts can still impact a New York taxable estate. Under current law, gifts made within three years of death are generally pulled back into the decedent’s New York taxable estate. By contrast, if a decedent survives a gift by more than three years, the value of that gift is excluded for estate tax purposes. This rule makes timing an important consideration, particularly given New York’s estate tax “cliff,” which can result in taxation of the entire estate if the exemption is exceeded.

Even for estates below the tax thresholds, planning remains critical—especially for those anticipating long-term care paid for by Medicaid.

New York residents should monitor updated Medicaid income and asset limits, which affect eligibility for long-term care benefits.

Procedural changes continue in Surrogate’s Court.

Although the Electronic Wills

IN THIS YOUR TIME OF LOSS

Our family serving yours since 1976

­

Kostanti A.Kruk, Owner Matthew Kruk, Licensed Funeral Director 539 William Floyd Parkway, Shirley, NY 11967 Phone: (631) 281-0800 RomaFuneralHome@yahoo.com

• •

Page 15

Fax: (631) 281-6435 www.romafuneralhome.com

Chat GPT

Changes to look for in 2026.

Act has passed the Legislature, it will not take effect until 545 days after being signed by the Governor. As a result, 2026 still requires traditional paper wills for probate. Recent legislation also allows nextof-kin notices to be served by mail, and in some cases by email, helping streamline estate administration.

Regular review of estate plans remains the best way to ensure compliance with evolving laws and personal

goals.

Erin Cullen, Esq., is an associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., focusing her practice on trusts and estates. Michal Lipshitz, Esq., is a senior associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., focusing on estate planning and elder law. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the East End of Long Island, with offices in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan, and East Hampton.

LIBRARY LIVING

BY TARA D’AMATO

Assistant Library Director

Stream Music You Love with Freegal Music from the Library Got a new smartphone or earbuds for the holidays? Did you know you can get free music downloads from your library? Anyone with a library card has free access to more than 15 million songs from over 28,000 labels, including the entire Sony Music catalog.

With the Freegal Music service, library cardholders can: • Download up to five songs per week to keep and stream music for up to three hours per day. Cardholders can track their remaining downloads in the upperright corner of the site. Each song includes a sample clip that can be played before downloading, though users must be logged into the website to access samples.

• Enjoy easy access by visiting the library’s digital services portal at http://www.communitylibrary. org/digital and clicking “Music.”

Downloads are provided in MP3 format with no digital rights management (DRM). Music videos are also available in MP4 format with no DRM. The service works on most computers, tablets, smartphones, and media players.

The Freegal Music mobile app is free in the Apple® App Store and Google® Play. Library staff are available to help cardholders with their first download or app setup.

• Download music videos, which count as two of the three weekly downloads. A video cannot be downloaded unless two downloads are available.

• Use the search engine, which offers both simple and advanced search options and typically returns results by album title.

Freegal Music appeals to all age groups. From the latest Billboard hits and children’s songs for long car rides to classical, jazz, gospel, and show music, the library offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Free music for all ages.

Chat GPT

Page 16

The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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State Road Spending Rises, Long Island Needs Remain

STATE

By Robert Chartuk New York poured billions into road and bridge work in 2025, but for Long Island drivers, the results remain a mixed bag.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the state improved more than 4,120 highway lane miles, filled 1.3 million potholes, and replaced or rehabilitated nearly 3,700 bridges this year, backed by $3.6 billion in investments. Officials say the pace of work far outstripped 2024, with 47 percent more lane miles improved and 19 percent more bridges repaired statewide.

On Long Island, the state reported 636 lane miles improved

and 339 bridges repaired or upgraded in 2025. That places the region among the higher totals for lane miles, trailing only the Southern Tier and Western New York, and ahead of areas such as the Capital District, Mid-Hudson, and New York City. Bridge work on Long Island also exceeded several regions, though it fell well below Western New York’s 1,272 bridge projects and the Finger Lakes’ 430.

State transportation officials point to those numbers as evidence that Long Island is receiving a fair share of infrastructure funding. Yet the region’s aging road network, heavy commuter traffic, and constant wear from weather and volume mean

many drivers still experience rough pavement, recurring potholes, and congestion chokepoints that seem untouched.

The DOT also reported filling hundreds of thousands of potholes statewide and performing maintenance on nearly 2,000 additional bridges beyond major projects. Still, motorists on the Long Island Expressway, Sunrise Highway, Route 25, and other local state roads say those efforts often feel temporary.

Looking ahead, the state plans to resurface more than 4,000 lane miles statewide in 2026, with another $1.2 billion earmarked for paving. Officials call it the most ambitious agenda yet.

For Long Island, the numbers

Photo illustration

State roadway spending on the rise.

show progress, but also underscore a reality drivers know well: even with significant

investment, the region’s roads and bridges remain a work in progress.

EJ’s PJs Pajama Drive Keeps Thousands Warm

By Robert Chartuk The success of this year’s EJ’s PJs season is being measured not just in donations, but in the thousands of children and families now sleeping a little warmer thanks to an ever-expanding community effort.

Founder Patricia Poggi said the most recent season was among the organization’s most impactful yet, with more than 7,000 pairs of brand-new pajamas distributed locally and beyond. Beneficiaries included families served by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, Help USA, Connect Community & Food Pantry, the Town of Brookhaven INTERFACE

EJ’s PJs

A youngster is all smiles after receiving a pair of pajamas from EJ’s PJs founder Patricia Poggi.

Program, EAC, Family Service League, Kids Need More, Christmas Magic, and numerous churches and outreach

programs across Long Island.

Additional donations reached families in other states, including Connecticut, Ken-

tucky, and Florida.

“To see how far this has grown is incredibly humbling,” Poggi said. “What started on my front porch with 34 pairs has turned into thousands of children feeling comfort, dignity, and warmth.

I am so grateful for every volunteer, every donor, and every organization that believes in this mission.”

Poggi emphasized that pajamas are more than clothing.

For children facing hardship, house fires, illness, or unstable housing, warm sleepwear offers a sense of normalcy and care. “A pair of pajamas may seem small, but it brings peace, comfort, and joy,” she said. “For many families, it means knowing someone

cares.”

The scope of the effort has continued to widen, with collection drives hosted by local restaurants, medical offices, banks, fitness centers, police precincts, hospitals, and county agencies. Volunteers handled sorting, packing, and distribution, often working long hours behind the scenes.

“I truly believe we are all EJ’s PJs,” Poggi said. “This is a community mission. Without the people who give their time, money, and hearts, none of this would be possible.”

Since its founding, EJ’s PJs has distributed more than 16,000 pairs of pajamas, with momentum continuing into the new year as requests for assistance keep coming in.

Social Security Payments on the Rise for 2026

By Robert Chartuk Social Security recipients across New York will see a modest increase in their January payments as the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment takes effect, boosting monthly benefits for millions of retirees, disabled workers, and families.

The 2.8 percent COLA applies to about 75 million Americans nationwide. For the average recipient, that translates into an increase of roughly $56 per month, raising typical benefits from about $2,015 to approximately $2,071.

New York is home to 559,604 Social Security recipients who collectively received about $400 million in benefits during 2024.

That total includes more than

234,000 residents age 65 and older, 446,245 people who are blind or disabled, nearly 70,000 children under 18, and 187,565 individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income.

SSI payments were issued Wednesday, Dec. 31, because New Year’s Day is a federal holiday and benefits are paid on the last business day of the prior month. The maximum federal SSI payment for an individual rises to $994 in 2026.

Payments for people who receive both Social Security and SSI, as well as long-term beneficiaries who began collecting before May 1997, were scheduled for Jan. 2 due to calendar adjustments.

Most other recipients will receive January payments based on their birthdays. Those born

between the first and 10th of the month will be paid Jan. 14. Birthdays from the 11th through 20th will be paid Jan. 21, while birthdays from the 21st through 31st will receive benefits Jan. 28.

Not all of the COLA will be felt in retirees’ pockets.

Medicare Part B premiums increased by $17.90 to $202.90 per month, consuming nearly one-third of the average benefit increase and reducing the typical monthly gain to about $38.

Another change affects older Americans who continue working. The annual earnings limit for those collecting benefits before full retirement age rises to $24,480 in 2026, allowing recipients to earn more income before benefits are temporarily withheld.

Social Security payments to increase.

Photo illustration

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

Page 17

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

LOCAL

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Ballet Long Island Offering FamilyFocused Events to Support Young Dancers

By Donna Rolando Ballet Long Island in Ronkonkoma is offering two family-focused events this month that combine live performances with opportunities to support young dancers.

On Jan. 24, the company will host a Princess Tea Party, and on Jan. 31, it will perform The Fantastic Toyshop. Both events start at 1 p.m. at the theater, located at 1863 Pond Road.

The Princess Tea Party features photo opportunities with popular princess characters, a ballet performance designed for young audiences, and refreshments including cupcakes and lemonade. The event is held monthly for those unable to attend the January party.

“We’ve been doing the Princess Tea Parties for about 16 or 17 years,” said Artistic Director Debra Punzi. “It started because we wanted to bring ballet to people, but in a way more acceptable for very young audiences. So, we do the Cinderella Pas De Deux from the ballet Cinderella and often we have Sleeping Beauty.”

This month’s party, for which attendees are encouraged to dress in costume, will feature Snow White, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast and other characters. Families are encouraged to sit at tables in a café setting and enjoy cupcakes, cookies and beverages such as tea, coffee, lemonade or water.

Attendees can expect to spend about an hour and 20 minutes at

the venue, with the performance lasting 40 minutes, Punzi said.

The Fantastic Toyshop is a ballet from the early 1900s about two families who visit a shop specializing in life-size toys— from ballerinas to poodles and giant cards—all of which can dance, Punzi said. The families each try to purchase a can-can dancer, not realizing they are separating a couple in love. In a comical turn, the toys plot to keep the can-can couple together.

Founded more than 40 years ago, the non-profit Ballet Long Island also offers an apprentice program to prepare students for professional careers.

Tickets for either performance are available online at balletlongisland.com or by

Debra Klipstein

Princess Tea Party performers have included Anna Dombrowsky, Caitlyn Mulherin, Maddie Dunne, Kristin Tveter, Carly Mulherin, Dahlia Sepulveda, Mollie Dombrowsky and Abigail Trpic.

calling 631-737-1964. Although tickets are available at the door, advance purchase is recom-

mended to guarantee seating.

Each child must be accompanied by an adult.

Three Long Islanders Will Perform in (mostly) TRUE THINGS

By Donna Rolando Three Long Islanders will take the stage in (mostly) TRUE THINGS, a storytelling game show where audiences listen to personal stories and try to spot subtle lies hidden within mostly true accounts.

The Jan. 10 show, titled New Start, begins at 7 p.m. at The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St., Port Jefferson.

“The main thing is that it’s true personal stories,” said host and show creator Jude Treder-Wolff of Selden. “There’s a lot of comedy, a lot of heart, and a lot of things people can relate to.

You’ll laugh, you’ll feel stuff, and then you get to ask questions and hopefully win a prize.”

Treder-Wolff created the

Ed Lefkowitz

Jude Treder-Wolff is the host of (mostly) TRUE THINGS, appearing in Port Jefferson.

program to bring a popular New York City storytelling format to Long Island.

“Ten years ago, I was doing a

lot of shows in the city, and it’s a schlep,” she said. “There wasn’t anything happening locally like that, so I thought I had to make

something happen here. When I talked about these fun, true storytelling shows that were active in NYC and nationally, people just didn’t seem to know they existed.”

Unlike Manhattan-based storytelling games that challenge audiences to identify one true story among several lies, Treder-Wolff flipped the format. “All the stories are true in essence,” she explained, “but only one has no lies. The rest include subtle little alterations.”

Those changes might involve a road that doesn’t quite connect two towns, or a song playing on a car radio that hadn’t yet been released at the time of the story.

“One or two altered details don’t change the story,” Treder-Wolff said. “But figuring out what those details are really engages the audience.”

Treder-Wolff’s background includes storytelling, comedy, singing, improv, and social work.

As a creative arts therapist, she uses theater arts to help people heal and share their experiences.“True storytelling as an art helps people feel more known and understood,” she said.

The Jan. 10 performance, produced by Lifestage Inc., will feature storytellers Susan Wiedeman, a literacy specialist who incorporates storytelling into her work with students; Jean LeBec, a four-time Moth story slam winner; Dennis DiMaggio, a workplace trainer and improv performer; and St. James resident Cathy Rose Salt, a longtime performer, arts leader, and jazz musician.

Tickets are available at: mostlytruethings.com

GOP-Led Suffolk Legislature Names New Leadership Team

By Robert Chartuk New leadership took charge this week in the Suffolk Legislature, with a Republican majority assembling its team for the Class of 2026 and signaling a continued emphasis on public safety, fiscal discipline, and infrastructure.

Among those elevated was South Shore legislator Jim Mazzarella, who was named Deputy Presiding Officer, a role that places him at the center of legislative decision-making while maintaining his focus on the Third Legislative District, which includes Mastic Beach, Shirley, and surrounding communities.

Mazzarella said he intends to serve as a bridge between leadership and rank-and-file lawmakers.

“I will strive to be communicative to all legislators and be sure they receive the support they need to properly represent the residents of

their districts and Suffolk County as a whole,” he said.

Mazzarella outlined a detailed list of district priorities, including ensuring the groundbreaking and construction of the new Smith Point Bridge, expanding sewer infrastructure further south into Mastic Beach, and continuing to advocate for additional law enforcement resources on local roadways. He also cited funding for flood mitigation and coastal resiliency projects, completion of a new pavilion at Cupsogue Beach, and further improvements at Smith Point County Park. In addition, he pledged to advocate for federal monies to find and create solutions to local traffic issues.

The broader leadership team will be led by Presiding Officer Anthony Piccirillo, with Majority Leader Nick Caracappa and a committee structure emphasizing

public safety, public works, and economic development.

Mazzarella also emphasized continued collaboration with County Executive Ed Romaine. “I look forward to joining him in all the good work that he has begun and to continue partnering with him in ensuring a safer and more affordable Suffolk County,” he said.

“Since taking the legislative majority for the first time after 16 years, Republicans have delivered results,” said Suffolk GOP Chairman Jesse Garcia. “The Republican Majority has added more cops, more detectives, and more prosecutors to keep residents safe. The GOP has reallocated resources properly, including funding crime-fighting tools like ShotSpotter. A safer Suffolk is the foundation of a stronger and more affordable Suffolk.”

Office of the County Executive

Suffolk County leaders, from left, County Executive Ed Romaine, Legislator Jim Mazzarella, the newly named deputy presiding officer; and Anthony Piccirillo, presiding officer.

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

Page 19

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE LB-CABANA SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs.

CHARLES ROACH, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 16, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on February 10, 2026 at 10:30 a.m., premises known as 113 Camille Lane, East Patchogue, NY 11772. 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 898.00, Block 07.00 and Lot 007.000.

Approximate amount of judgment is $653,766.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608882/ 2023.

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 222773-1 L16426 - 1/07/2026, 1/14/2026, 1/21/2026, & 1/28/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-25, Plaintiff, Against James P. Walsh; Stephanie M. Walsh; John F. O'Neill, his successors or assigns, as Commissioner of Social Services of Suffolk County, Social Services District; People of the State of New York; Peter Meyer; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; John T. Mather Memorial Hospital; Glenn Hesselbach and Debra Hesselbach; Jaime Correia as Executor of the Estate of Florence Van Brussel; Equable Ascent Financial, LLC; Penny Whyard; Capital One Bank USA, NA; Springleaf Home Equity, Inc. f/k/a American Gen. Home Equity, Inc.; Colonial Woods Condominium; Midland Funding LLC; Continued Care of LI, Inc.; Southside Hospital; Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC; Claire Gangi; Peconic Bay Medical Center; Autovest, L.L.C.; Clerk of the Suffolk

County District Court; Clerk of the Suffolk County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency; Commissioners of the State Insurance Fund; Contemporary Dental Associates; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; Internal Revenue Service; Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/16/2021, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 2/5/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 27 Pineway Avenue, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 970.00 Block 02.00 Lot 012.000 And 013.000.

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $469,411.27 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604429/2019 Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Dated: 11/25/2025 File Number: 35262 MB L16427 - 1/07/2026, 1/14/2026, 1/21/2026, & 1/28/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE INDEX NO. 617452/2024 COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Plaintiff designates SUFFOLK as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 165 CANTERBURY DRIVE, RIDGE, NY 11961 District: 0200, Section: 241.00, Block: 02.00, Lot: 038.000 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC Plaintiff, vs.

TIMOTHY HOLLINGWORTH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS R. HOLLINGWORTH; KATHRYN HOLLINGWORTH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS R. HOLLINGWORTH; JOHN HOLLINGWORTH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS R. HOLLINGWORTH; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS R. HOLLINGWORTH, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real

property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; LEISURE KNOLL ASSOCIATION, INC.; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; CAPITAL ONE, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR TO CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $382,500.00 and interest, recorded on October 24, 2006, in Liber M00021406 at Page 292 , of the Public Records of SUFFOLK County, New York., covering premises known as 165 CANTERBURY DRIVE, RIDGE, NY 11961. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by

the Mortgage described above.

SUFFOLK County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: December 2nd, 2025 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 L16417- 12/17/2025, 12/24/ 2025, 12/31/2025, & 1/07/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, SBJK HOMES, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL AGNELLO, IF LIVING, AND IF ANY BE DEAD, HIS RESPECTIVE HEIRS-ATLAW, NEXT OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING UNDER, BY OR THROUGH SAID DEFENDANT WHO MAY BE DECEASED, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN, ANNETTE M. AGNELLO AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL AGNELLO, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 1, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on February 10, 2026 at 11:30 a.m., premises known as 39 Moriches Island Road a/k/ a 39 Eastview Avenue, East Moriches, NY 11940. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected,

situate, lying and being at East Moriches, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 890.00, Block 05.00 and Lot 043.001. Approximate amount of judgment is $233,784.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 604912/ 2017. Cash or third-party checks will not be accepted, only bank or certified checks made out to me as referee. Giuseppe Rosini, Esq., Referee Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff L16409 - 1/07/2026, 1/14/2026, 1/21/2026, & 1/28/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF THE SOWER COLLECTION LLC The Sower Collection LLC filed Articles of Organization with the New York Secretary of State on November 1, 2025. Office location: Suffolk County. The Secretary of State has been designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process to: 23 Bernard Place, Centereach, NY 11720. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

L16420- 12/17/2025, 12/24/ 2025, 12/31/2025, 1/07/2026, 1/ 14/2026, & 1/21/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, -against - THOMAS PERKINS, 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 March 20, 2025, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and THOMAS PERKINS, 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 23, 2026 at 12:00PM, premises known as 9 DREAMLAND STREET, MASTIC, NY 11950; and the following tax map identification: 0200-786.00-02.00-029.003.

EMAIL LEGAL NOTICES TO LEGALS@SOUTHSHOREPRESS.COM

Page 20

The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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THE CLASSIFIEDS ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610707/ 2023. Ian Sack, 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. L16413 - 12/24/2025, 12/31/ 2025, 1/07/2026, & 1/14/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST William Giangrande; Wendy Giangrande a/k/a Wendy R. Giangrande; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 21, 2022, amended December 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on January 16,2026 at 1:30 PM, premises known as 119 Holbrook Road, Holbrook, NY 11741. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200 Section 727.00 Block 05.00 Lot 010.000. Approximate amount of judgment $734,335.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 064294/ 2013. Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: December 3, 2025 L16419- 12/17/2025, 12/24/ 2025, 12/31/2025, & 1/07/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. PENTAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO SPERRY ASSOCIATES

FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Pltf. vs. MELISSA & NEIL COMPANY, L.L.C., et al, Defts.

Index #601836/2022. Pursuant to an amended judgment of foreclosure and sale entered July 14, 2023 and order appointing substitute referee to conduct a foreclosure sale entered October 16, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the steps of the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on January 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., prem. k/a 125 Mark Tree Road, Centereach, NY a/k/a District 0200, Section 487, Block 01.00, Lot 030.001. Said property beginning at a point on the westerly side of Mark Tree, said point being distant 1098.78 ft. northerly from the end of a curve connecting the northerly side of Market Street with the westerly side of Mark Tree Road; Running thence along the northerly side of land now or formerly of F & P Realty Co., Inc., NW, 125.12 feet; Thence along the easterly side of land shown on map of Dawn Estates, Map No. 1945, NE, 165.56 feet (Actual) 170.00 feet (Deed); Thence along the southerly side of land now or formerly of Kwik Check Realty Co., SE, 125.12 feet; Thence along the westerly side of Mark Tree Road, SW, 165.56 feet (Actual) 170.00 feet ( Deed) to the point or place of beginning. Approx. amt. of judgment is $893,421.34 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

MICHELLE AULIVOLA, Referee. JASPAN SCHLESINGER NARENDRAN LLP, Attys. for Pltf., File No.#102632 L16394- 12/17/2025, 12/24/ 2025, 12/31/2025, & 1/7/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY HUDSON CITY SAVINGS BANK, Plaintiff against ABRAHAM L. TURPIN A/K/A ABRAHAM TURPIN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, NY 10591.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 20, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on January 23, 2026 at 12:30 PM. Premises known as 105 Carlton Drive East, Shirley, New York 11967. District 0200 Sec 615.00 Block 02.00 Lot 013.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

Approximate Amount of

Judgment is $494,834.06 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 609334/2015. Cash will not be accepted at the sale.

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Pamela J. Greene, Esq., Referee File # 2154000927 L16424 - 12/24/2025, 12/31/ 2025, 1/07/2026, & 1/14/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST 2005-1,-againstAMPARO LARA A/K/A LARA AMPARO A/K/A AMPARO G. LARA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on October 11, 2018, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST 2005-1 is the Plaintiff and AMPARO LARA A/K/A LARA AMPARO A/K/A AMPARO G. LARA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on January 22, 2026 at 10:30AM, premises known as 130 AUBORN AVENUE, SHIRLEY, NY 11967; and the following tax map identification: 0200-783.00 -04.00-024.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT SOUTH HAVEN IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BROOKHAVEN COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 612930/ 2017. Daniel Panico, Esq. Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing.

*LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. L16412 - 12/24/2025, 12/31/ 2025, 1/07/2026, & 1/14/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Public Sale The following Self Storage unit contents containing household and other goods Will be sold for cash by StorQuest Self Storage 393 Smith Road Shirley, NY 11967 (631)-729-6945 To satisfy a lien on 1/14/2026 at approx. 12:00pm at www.storagetreasures.com Unit # - A107 - B105 – 030 - 143 - 203 - 380 - 419 - 423

6:00 PM Business Meeting L16430 - 01/07/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE The following Self Storage unit contents containing household and other goods will be sold for cash by StorQuest Self Storage 2021 Lakeland Avenue , Ronkonkoma NY 11779 (631) 954-2026 to satisfy a lien on 01/ 14/2026 at approx. 12PM at www.storagetreasures.com: Corina Class-1164, Victor Torres-2092,Holly Lyons2212,Jade Mason-2196 L16431 - 01/07/2026

L16429 - 01/07/2026 PUBLIC NOTICE The Center Moriches Board of Fire Commissioners meetings will be held at the following times and dates.

All meetings will be held at the Center Moriches Fire Department, 301 Main Street, Center Moriches NY 11934.

Monday, January 12, 2026 6:00 PM Organizational Meeting Monday, January 12, 2026 6:30 PM Business Meeting Monday, January 26, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, February 9, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, February 23, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, March 9, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, March 23, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, April 13, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, April 27, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, May 11, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Tuesday, May 26, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Sunday, June 8, 2025 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, June 22, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, July 13, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, July 27, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, August 10, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, August 24, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, September 14, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, September 28, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, October 12, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, October 19, 2026 7:00 PM Budget Hearing Monday, October 26, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, November 16, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, November 30, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, December 14, 2026 6:00 PM Business Meeting Monday, December 28, 2026

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Page 23

THE FANTASY BASEBALL EXPERIENCE

Run, Ronald, Run

By Tom Barton While most people are counting their fantasy football winnings this week, true fantasy baseball enthusiasts are already scouring the sports pages for any nugget of information that could provide an edge heading into next year’s draft.

While the baseball world focused on the Winter Meetings, waiting for trades and free-agent signings, a potentially massive fantasy storyline quietly emerged that could impact the first round.

Ronald Acuña Jr. remains one of the most talented players in baseball and not long ago was a consensus top overall pick. However, a significant injury derailed his season and raised questions about what version of Acuña fantasy managers can expect when he returns fully healthy. Will he still run enough to approach the 73 stolen bases he recorded before the injury, or will Atlanta encourage him to be more conservative on

the basepaths? His power profile also presents uncertainty. Acuña has crushed 41 home runs twice in his career, but over his last 150 games he has hit just 25. He also owns six seasons with fewer than 27 homers.

His batting average has fluctuated as well, ranging from lows of .250 and .266 to five seasons above .280, including his remarkable .337 campaign three years ago.

Some insight may have surfaced last week when Braves manager Walt Weiss said he is open to moving the 2023 National League MVP back to the leadoff spot.

“It’s enticing to have him at the top of the order,” Weiss said. “I really like when a lineup turns over and there’s teeth right away.”

Acuña was moved out of the leadoff role last summer partly because he wasn’t running as aggressively.

With more recovery time, his legs could again become fantasy gold.

Another encouraging sign is that Acuña has already recorded six stolen bases in his first eight

games in the Venezuelan Winter League. If he returns to the leadoff spot, Jurickson Profar’s run-scor-

ing value could take a hit. While others focus on bowl games and fantasy football payouts, smart

managers won’t let news like this slip by before baseball draft season arrives.

New Blood for College Football

BETTING WITH BARTON

BY TOM BARTON

And then there were four.

The College Football Playoff has seen major shakeups, and now only four teams remain, creating a field that has surprised nearly everyone. Indiana came out of nowhere and earned the top seed after humiliating Alabama. Ole Miss is pulling off magic despite not having its head coach and also knocked off an SEC stalwart. Miami looks like it is truly back, with Michael Irvin fueling belief behind a dominant, big-time defense. Oregon silenced every doubter and finds itself in a familiar position, but the question remains whether the Ducks can finally capitalize this time.

The shakeup and uncertainty surrounding this year’s field is great for fans, but it creates a dangerous landscape for sports bettors. Outside of Indiana, there is very little trust in any of the remaining teams. The Hoosiers lack the traditional pedigree of college football’s blue bloods, but they have the coach, the Heisman

@ronaldacunajr24 | X

Ronald Acuna

winner, and the most complete roster in the playoff.

That combination is why they opened as a four-point favorite to reach the title game.

Oregon has also drawn plenty of attention, which kept the line from climbing as high as some expected.

What the Ducks just did to Texas Tech’s offense cannot be ignored, and the number has been viewed as fishy by many bettors. Miami opened as a small favorite as well. The Hurricanes are a public team, and the SEC has largely noshowed during these playoffs, signaling that bettors may be selling a coachless Ole Miss and a struggling conference.

However, Ole Miss was also expected to lose this past week, so caution is advised.

Regardless of the outcome, it is refreshing to see new blood competing for a championship. For bettors, though, this is a week to tread carefully, read the market closely, and navigate these intriguing lines wisely.

Indiana football

@IndianaFootball | X

Page 24

The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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104-Year-Old Vet Wows the Islander Crowd

SPORTS

By Tom Barton This past weekend at the Rangers–Islanders game, the hockey crowd received a remarkable surprise when 104-year-old Staff Sergeant Dominick Critelli took center stage to perform the national anthem.

The World War II veteran played “The Star-Spangled Banner” at UBS Arena, creating a moment that transcended sports and united the entire building in appreciation and respect.

Critelli, who was born in 1921, delivered a beautiful rendition on his saxophone as Islanders and Rangers fans alike stood, sang along, and applauded throughout the performance.

As Critelli held the final note

for an extra-long flourish, the crowd erupted into a loud and emotional chant of “USA! USA!” in honor of the distinguished military veteran. Smiling proudly, he saluted the fans before making his way off the ice to a standing ovation that few moments in sports can match.

Critelli’s life story is as inspiring as the performance itself. He spent 151 days in combat during World War II, surviving the brutal Battle of the Bulge and flying behind enemy lines on dangerous missions to deliver much-needed supplies to isolated American troops. His courage and dedication played a vital role in supporting soldiers during one of the most challenging periods in American history.

For his service, Critelli earned numerous military honors, including the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, the American Theater Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal.

According to USA Warrior Stories, he served as an aircraft mechanic with the 95th Infantry Division Headquarters Battery.

At 104 years old, Dominick Critelli continues to inspire generations, proving that patriotism, service, and music have the power to bring people together in unforgettable ways.

After the Islanders won the game their social media account put up a post that read “1-0 In the Dominick Critelli Era.”

@NYIslanders | X

Dominick Critelli

Feely Uses Tennis Match to Make a Point

By Tom Barton Former New York Jets and Giants kicker Jay Feely made headlines this week for his outspoken stance on male athletes competing against women. Feely, who is currently running for Congress in Arizona, weighed in on the recent “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match between Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka.

The exhibition match featured Sabalenka receiving adjustments intended to help level the playing field. Her side of the court was 10 percent smaller than her male counterpart’s, an advantage designed to compensate for physical dif-

Jay Feely

ferences. Feely referenced the match while making a broader point about men participating

@jayfeely | X

in women’s sports. He argued that such accommodations highlight inherent biological

disparities.

Feely addressed the issue on X, criticizing what he described as hypocrisy from Democrats when defending the inclusion of biological males in women’s competitions. “Please don’t ever believe the absolute garbage coming from ignorant liberals that letting men compete with women isn’t unfair to the women,” Feely wrote.

The “Battle of the Sexes” label traces back to the iconic 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.

King’s victory in straight sets became a landmark moment in sports history, helping fuel the growth of women’s professional tennis and advancing the push for equal pay and recog-

nition.

In the modern version of the matchup, Kyrgios defeated Sabalenka in straight sets, though he was quick to credit her performance. Following the match, Kyrgios emphasized the competitiveness of the contest.

“There’s nothing but positives that can be taken away from this,” he said. “I had to work for it. I had to sweat. It was not easy.”

Feely’s comments align with former President Donald Trump’s stance opposing male athletes competing in women’s sports. He pointed to the match as an example of why, in his view, such competitions remain fundamentally unequal despite rule adjustments.

Ducks Give Back for the Holidays

By Tom Barton Just before Christmas, members of the Long Island Ducks visited children in pediatric units at multiple area hospitals to deliver donated toys and spread holiday cheer throughout the community. The annual tradition continues to be a meaningful way for the organization to give back during the holiday season.

Ducks mascot QuackerJack was joined by team manager Lew Ford and several members of the Ducks front office staff during the visits. Together, they made stops at Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip, South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, and Stony Brook Children’s

Hospital in Stony Brook, bringing smiles to patients, families, and staff members alike.

At each location, QuackerJack and Ford spent time visiting with numerous children, handing out gifts that were donated by Ducks fans throughout the month of December. Many children and their families posed for photos, received autographs, and enjoyed conversations about the upcoming Ducks baseball season. The visits provided a welcome distraction and a sense of excitement for those spending the holidays away from home.

One especially memorable stop came at South Shore University Hospital, where QuackerJack and Ford met

some of the Ducks’ newest fans in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The visits helped brighten the day for families during an especially emotional time of year.

Hospital staff members at all three locations were also thrilled to welcome the Ducks, with many taking photos and sharing in the festive atmosphere. The Ducks organization and hospital representatives expressed their gratitude to everyone who donated toys this holiday season. Their generosity helped bring joy, comfort, and smiles to children and families during a challenging time, reinforcing the strong bond between the Long Island Ducks and the community they proudly serve year after year.

Long Island Ducks QuackerJack visits pediatric units.

Michael Polak

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

Page 25

Soccer Referees Needed Across Long Island

SPORTS

By Tom Barton Have you ever thought about becoming a referee? Youth sports on Long Island are in need of officials, and opportunities are available for new referees to get involved. The continued growth of programs within the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association (ENYYSA) has created a constant demand for certified soccer referees.

Certification classes will be held throughout Eastern New York in 2026. Once certified, referees and assistant referees are expected to handle nearly 80,000 game assignments during the year. Interest in soccer is also expected to rise even further with the FIFA World Cup being hosted in the United States, Can-

ada, and Mexico in 2026. Eastern New York is actively seeking new referees to serve as both center officials and assistant referees for youth soccer matches. The minimum age to become certified is 14 years old, and referees manage their own availability, allowing officiating to fit around school, work, and other commitments.

For more information on how to become a referee, visit enysreferee.org/how-to-becomea-referee. Questions can also be sent via email to questions@ enysreferee.org.

The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association is a nonprofit organization serving more than 100,000 youth players, both boys and girls, and supported by over 25,000 volunteers. ENYYSA’s coverage area stretches from

Montauk Point on Long Island to the Canadian border, east of Route 81. The organization promotes the healthy development of players, coaches, referees, and administrators. Soccer opportunities range from intramural to travel and premier programs, including offerings for children with special needs. No child who wants to play soccer is turned away. ENYYSA is a proud member of U.S. Soccer and U.S. Youth Soccer.

Becoming a youth soccer referee offers many benefits, including earning money, staying active, developing leadership skills, learning the game at a deeper level, and meeting great people. It could be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make.

Long Island Refs

Long Island Soccer Referees Association

New York Jets Help Women’s Flag Football

By Tom Barton Earlier this month, the Betty Wold Johnson Foundation announced a groundbreaking $1 million grant to the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) that will transform the landscape of women’s flag football. Directed by New York Jets Chairman Woody Johnson, the investment will fund the creation of the largest collegiate women’s flag football league in the nation, set to launch in the spring of 2026.

The initiative underscores the Johnson Family’s and the New York Jets’ unwavering commitment to expanding access and opportunity for women in

ECAC

sports.

“Empowering young women through football has always

ecacsports.com

been central to our mission,” said Johnson. “Partnering with the ECAC to launch this league

creates a clear pathway for student-athletes to compete, grow, and lead—on the field and beyond.”

Johnson added that the Jets ECAC Women’s Flag Football League builds on the success of the organization’s high school girls’ flag program, which has opened doors for thousands of athletes across the region. The collegiate league is designed to be the next step, offering opportunities tied to Olympic aspirations and a future professional pathway.

The league will feature the 7-on-7 format of flag football.

The season will kick off with a Media Day at MetLife Stadium in February, followed by a USA Football Talent ID Camp

the next day. Regular-season games will be played from February through April at campus sites, culminating with the championship game at MetLife Stadium during the first weekend in May. NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Troy Vincent Sr. called the league a significant milestone for women’s sports, praising the Jets and the Johnson Family for their leadership.

ECAC Commissioner Dan Coonan echoed that sentiment, highlighting the conference’s 88-year history and expressing excitement about bringing the initiative to life and empowering the next generation of female flag football athletes.

Wildcat Girls Defense Unbeaten

By Tom Barton There are just five undefeated teams remaining in Suffolk County girls basketball this season and standing at the top of the mountain are the Shoreham-Wading River Wildcats. The Wildcats are a perfect 7-0 on the young season and have been as impressive as any team in the county so far. Shoreham-Wading River has relied heavily on its stingy defense, which has consistently shut down opposing offenses and set the tone every night.

The Wildcats have held five of their seven opponents to 30 points or fewer this season, showcasing disci-

plined team defense, strong rebounding, and relentless on-ball pressure. While defense has been their calling card, the offense has proven it can explode when needed.

Shoreham-Wading River has already posted scoring outputs of 77 and 79 points in two separate games, demonstrating a balanced and efficient attack.

As the old saying goes, defense travels, and that has been especially true for the Wildcats. They are a perfect 3-0 on the road, and no opponent has reached the 30-point mark against them away from home. That consistency has made them a difficult matchup regardless of venue.

In their most recent game,

Shealyn Varbero led the way with 20 points, while three different Wildcats reached double figures in scoring.

That performance highlighted one of the team’s biggest strengths: depth. Through just seven games, four different players have led the team in scoring, a clear indication that this is not a one-player lineup.

This balanced approach makes Shoreham-Wading River difficult to game plan against and allows them to adjust to any opponent. If the Wildcats continue to defend with the same intensity and share the offensive load, they appear poised for what could become a truly special season as league play continues.

SWR Girls Basketball

swr_girls_basketball | instagram

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The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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Wildcats Win Mountain Duals Title

SPORTS

By Tom Barton The Shoreham-Wading River Wrestling Team captured the 2025 Mountain Duals title, continuing what has already been a remarkable season for the Wildcats. Shoreham-Wading River was in peak form throughout the tournament, finishing a perfect 6-0 against elite competition. During their championship run, the Wildcats defeated several top-tier Division I and Division II programs from three different sections across New York State, showcasing their depth, toughness, and preparation.

This championship was truly a total team effort, as every wrestler on the roster contributed to earning the Mountain

Duals title and bringing home the championship plaque. From dominant individual performances to clutch wins in tightly contested matches, the Wildcats demonstrated resilience and unity at every weight class.

With the Mountain Duals victory, Shoreham-Wading River has now improved to a perfect 13-0 record to start the season. In addition to remaining unbeaten, the Wildcats have already captured three tournament championships, firmly establishing themselves as one of the premier wrestling programs on Long Island and throughout the state.

After defeating the No. 1 ranked Division I and Division II teams in Suffolk County earlier this season, expecta-

tions continue to rise for this talented and motivated group.

Their consistent success against high-level opponents has set the tone for what could be a special year.

The Shoreham-Wading River School District recognized the team’s outstanding accomplishment on social media, praising both their early-season success and their focus moving forward. “There is plenty of work left to do, but we couldn’t ask for a better start to the year,” the post read. “Go Wildcats!”

With momentum building and confidence growing, the Wildcats remain locked in on their goals as they continue their pursuit of championship success this season.

SWR Wrestling Team

Shoreham Wading River Central School District

Smithtown Bowling “Turney” Heads

By Tom Barton

Grok

Bowling

Abby Turney has not only helped lead the Smithtown bowling team to an unbeaten record this season, but she and her teammates have been absolutely rolling over their opponents. Smithtown sits at an impressive 4–0 on the young campaign, and it is not just the wins that stand out, but the dominant fashion in which they have come.

The team is coming off its second 40–0 victory of the season, this time defeating Half Hollow Hills. Through four matches, Smithtown has overwhelmed its opposition by

a staggering combined score of 151–8, an eye-popping margin that highlights the team’s depth and consistency from top to bottom.

Turney once again paced the lineup in the most recent match, bowling a high game of 239 as part of a strong 600 series. Trishna Desai was equally impressive, rolling a 237 game and finishing with a 615 series.

The duo has been the driving force behind Smithtown’s early-season success, setting the tone in nearly every match.

Their dominance was also on full display against Commack, Smithtown’s other 40–0 win this season. In that matchup, Desai delivered one of

the best performances of the year, firing a 248 in Game 3 and posting a remarkable 704 series. Turney complemented that effort with a 224 in Game 1 on her way to a 602 series, once again demonstrating her consistency and leadership.

With confidence building and momentum firmly on their side, Smithtown now turns its attention to the week ahead. The team will face North Babylon and Brentwood as it looks to extend its unbeaten streak and continue its dominant run. If early results are any indication, Smithtown bowling is setting the standard this season.

Miller Place Duo on Scoring Leaderboard

By Tom Barton Miller Place basketball features two of Suffolk County’s top 25 scorers this season in Dylan Riegel and Ryan Khezri, an impressive distinction that places the Panthers among an elite group. Only three other schools in the county can claim two players ranked inside the top 25 in scoring: Southampton, East Hampton, and Smithtown West. Having that level of offensive firepower makes Miller Place a difficult matchup on any given night.

Riegel has been the team’s leading scorer, averaging 17.9 points per game while knock-

ing down 19 three-pointers so far this season. His ability to stretch the floor and score from deep has made him a constant threat for opposing defenses. Khezri has been just as effective, averaging 16.9 points per game and connecting on 10 shots from beyond the arc. Together, they provide a balanced perimeter attack that keeps defenses honest and opens opportunities for the rest of the lineup.

While Miller Place’s overall record may not be where the team hoped it would be at this point in the season, there have been clear signs of progress.

The Panthers have lost each of their last four games by 10 points or fewer, showing

improved competitiveness and resilience. In their most recent outing, Miller Place nearly completed a dramatic comeback before falling just short against rival Mount Sinai.

Those narrow losses suggest the Panthers are trending in the right direction as they continue to gain experience and confidence. With Riegel and Khezri leading the way offensively, Miller Place will look to turn close games into wins as the schedule moves forward.

The Panthers will have an opportunity to do just that next week when they face Hampton Bays and Amityville, before taking on another familiar rival in Rocky Point.

MP Basketball Duo

Tom Barton

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SPORTS

By Tom Barton This past week, history was made for girls wrestling on Long Island at the 2025 St. Anthony’s Friar Bash Invitational. For the first time in the tournament’s history, three sisters entered the prestigious event—and all three left as champions.

The Hernandez sisters from Newfield High School each captured first place, showcasing dominance, discipline, and remarkable family pride on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

Zoey Hernandez claimed the championship at 94 pounds, Julianna Hernandez earned the title in the 132-pound weight class, and Madison Hernandez

The South Shore Press • January 7, 2026

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Hernandez Sisters Make Girls Wrestling History took home the crown at 145 pounds. Their historic performance highlighted not only individual excellence, but also the continued growth and strength of girls wrestling across the region.

The St. Anthony’s High School Girls Friar Bash Tournament is the only CHSAA/ private school event that has consistently offered a girls wrestling tournament over the past several years, making the Hernandez sisters’ achievement even more significant.

Rocky Point also enjoyed an outstanding showing at the invitational. Angelica Smiech captured first-place honors at 100 pounds, while Isha Boucicaut earned a strong finish at 165 pounds. Delilah Skurnick

finished third at 120 pounds, and Molly McCue followed closely with a fourth-place finish in the same weight class.

Veronica Escobar placed fourth at 126 pounds, and Adrianna D’Agostino also finished fourth at 132 pounds after a competitive run.

Additional podium finishes came from Karlee Muralles and Daisy Morbillo, who each earned third-place honors in their respective weight classes.

Their performances helped round out an impressive day for Long Island competitors.

The 2025 Friar Bash Invitational served as a powerful reminder of how far girls wrestling has come and how bright the future remains for the sport on Long Island.

RPAthletics | Facebook

RP Wrestling Team

Longwood Hosts Alumni Game

By Tom Barton The day after Christmas, Longwood High School hosted its Alumni Basketball Game at home, bringing together former student-athletes to celebrate the rich history and success of the program. The event honored past players who helped build the foundation of Longwood basketball and provided an opportunity for alumni, current players, and fans to reconnect through the game they all share.

The gym was filled with familiar faces as many former standouts returned to the court, showcasing that their love for the game remains

Longwood Alumni

strong. The atmosphere was festive and welcoming, with

Longwoodboysbasketball | Instagram

fans in the stands cheering on the alumni and enjoying a fun,

competitive matchup. Players and spectators alike embraced the event as a meaningful way to reflect on the program’s tradition and lasting impact.

Following the success of the game, school officials announced their intention to make the Alumni Basketball Game an annual tradition. The Longwood Boys Basketball program expressed gratitude afterward, posting, “We want to thank everyone who came out to support our Alumni Game. It was fun to see how much talent we have in our basketball program.”

While alumni took center stage for the special event, the current varsity team continues to make noise on the court.

Longwood is off to an impressive 5–1 start to the season, building momentum with strong performances on both ends of the floor. Just before the holiday break, the Lions defeated North Babylon in convincing fashion, pouring in an eye-catching 90 points in the victory.

The varsity squad will now look to keep that momentum rolling as they head back into action after the New Year. Next up is a road matchup against Comsewogue, which will begin a challenging stretch of four games in seven days. It will be a true test of depth, preparation, and resilience as Longwood continues its promising season.

Half Hollow Hills Freshman Heads to the Olympics

By Tom Barton This past season, Hills West freshman and varsity fencing team member Bhairavi “Bhavi” Khanna achieved a major milestone by qualifying for the 2026 Junior Olympics. The prestigious event will take place this January in Kansas City, Missouri, and is considered one of the premier fencing competitions on the national calendar.

The Junior Olympics is a multi-day tournament that brings together elite junior, cadet, and team-level athletes from across the United States. Competitors will face off in foil, epee, and saber disciplines, showcasing top-tier skill, athleticism, and sportsmanship. The event features Junior, Cadet, and Junior Team

categories, providing fencers with a high-stakes opportunity to compete on a national stage, gain invaluable experience, and measure their abilities against the best peers in the country.

Qualifying for the Junior Olympics is no small feat, particularly for a freshman competing at the varsity level. Khanna’s accomplishment reflects her dedication, discipline, and commitment to her sport, as well as the countless hours spent training and refining her technique. Her success also highlights the strength of the Hills West fencing program, which continues to develop talented student-athletes capable of competing at the highest levels.

The Junior Olympics is widely regarded as a stepping stone for young fencers with aspirations

of collegiate competition and beyond. Participation in the event offers exposure to elite competition and the chance to compete in an intense, fast-paced environment that mirrors the highest levels of the sport. Spectators can expect a thrilling showcase of precision, strategy, and determination throughout the tournament.

The Half Hollow Hills Central School District proudly recognized Khanna’s achievement on social media, writing, “We’re proud of Bhavi for representing Hills West with excellence in this impressive achievement!” As she prepares to compete in Kansas City, Khanna carries with her the support of her teammates, coaches, school community, and family, all eager to see her continue to excel on the national fencing stage.

Bhairavi Khanna

Half Hollow Hills Central School District | Facebook

Sports

JANUARY 7, 2026

SUFFOLK SPORTS Teams, Scores, Photos, News, Columns and More

HERNANDEZ SISTERS MAKE GIRLS WRESTLING HISTORY Girls Wrestling Front and Center

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Longwood Hosts Alumni Game

Half Hollow Hills Freshman Wildcats Win Mountain Heads to the OlympicsStory on Duals Title Story on

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