The South Shore Press 6/25/25

NEWSROOM

BY STEFAN MYCHAJLIW

When I went to the Google machine on the topic of “Lyme Disease in Suffolk County” I was quite surprised at the response from artificial intelligence that stated the following for my search:

“Suffolk County is known to be a hotspot for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.”

The issue of Lyme diseasecarrying ticks is a hot topic in our household when my incredible and hyper-vigilant wife spotted one on the skin of one of our kids. Ashley grabbed tweezers, pulled it off immediately, and insisted we send it to a lab for testing. Before that, I didn’t think much of my wife inspecting the kids a few times a day for ticks.

Thought nothing of it. I’m extremely grateful for her being a hyper-vigilant mom. Our kids are healthier and better off for it.

Our family practice physician prescribed a hardcore antibiotic as a precautionary measure. Sure enough, when the lab results came back, the tick we pulled was positive for Lyme disease.

Thankfully, the risk to our child is extremely low, only because my wife checks regularly in the warmer weather months.

Kudos to Suffolk County and health officials for providing an array of information about ticks, Lyme disease, and what you can do to protect yourself and your

BY GEORGE SANTOS

Let’s call it what it was—a masterpiece of American strength.

On June 22nd, President Donald J. Trump reminded the world exactly what it means when the United States of America draws a red line. With precision, resolve, and an unapologetic display of power, the commander in chief authorized a surgical strike against key Iranian nuclear sites. Not only was it successful, it was absolutely necessary.

While career politicians, weak-kneed diplomats, and the permanent D.C. blob had been wringing their hands for years over how to “contain” Iran, President Trump acted. And in doing so, he reaffirmed America’s role as the defender of peace, freedom, and strength around the globe.

Make no mistake—Iran is the world’s most dangerous regime. They are not misunderstood. They are not “complicated.” They are

not the victims here. They are a genocidal, terror-sponsoring, antiAmerican, anti-Israel theocracy, and they’ve been calling for “death to America” for over four decades. They’ve made it clear in word and deed that their goal is to wipe Israel off the map and undermine U.S. power wherever they can.

So when President Trump ordered the strike on June 22, it wasn’t an escalation—it was a longoverdue response to decades of Iranian threats, lies, and violence. And it sent a message that could not be misunderstood: If you come for America or her allies, you will be met with righteous force.

That is leadership.

Now, predictably, the liberal media and the usual Washington swamp creatures jumped into action within minutes of the strike.

CNN trotted out its “national security experts” (read: failed former bureaucrats). MSNBC spent

Suffolk County a Lyme Disease Hotbed

kids as best as possible. It even has a “Tick Pathogen Surveillance Program” launched in 2016 that works collaboratively with the New York State Department of Health on tick prevention and education.

Ticks are collected in locations across Suffolk County in the spring, summer, and fall months. Testing data is shared in an open, honest, and transparent manner. There’s also important information on how you can be vigilant in the battle against ticks carrying Lyme disease.

Head to SuffolkCountyny. gov and find the Department of Health tab, where all of their information is available. Once you find it, that page also links to

the NYS Department of Health website where reams of the most recent data (2024) is right at your fingertips.

You can also visit HealthData. ny.gov and then click the “All Data” tab for tick and Lyme disease information pertaining to Suffolk County. It is much easier finding it if you go to the search bar in the upper righthand corner of that website and type in “tick.” From there you can click on various data portals with lots of information about Lyme disease in Suffolk County.

According to the data, about half of the ticks tested positive for the pathogen that causes Lyme disease in ten of Suffolk County’s townships. In 2024

Suffolk County and New York State collected and tested approximately 2,110 ticks.

Folks, the best protection to keep your kids safe is...you. The consequences of our children being infected with Lyme disease are deeply debilitating. According to Boston’s Children Hospital if “ left untreated, the bacteria that cause Lyme can attack many systems of your child's body, including the skin, heart, nerves, and joints.”

Check your kids regularly, especially now in the warmer months. I thank God my wife Ashley did, and will continue to do so. The health and welfare of our kids and yours depends on it.

more time worrying about how the ayatollah “might feel” than how close he was to building a nuclear bomb. Democrat politicians—most of whom can’t find Iran on a map— warned that the president was being “reckless.”

Let me ask you something: What’s reckless? Is it acting decisively to take out a hostile nuclear threat? Or is it sending pallets of cash to Iran in the middle of the night, like Obama did, in exchange for a meaningless piece of paper?

Let’s rewind for a moment, because the American people deserve a refresher. Under the failed Obama-Biden administration, Iran was treated like a misunderstood teenager instead of the dangerous regime it is. The 2015 Iran nuclear deal (the JCPOA) wasn’t a breakthrough—it was a capitulation. It handed the ayatollah a pathway to the bomb, just on

a longer fuse. It allowed Iran to keep enriching uranium, continue ballistic missile development, and sponsor terror around the world— all while receiving billions in sanctions relief.

Thank God President Trump ripped that deal to shreds the moment he took office. And thank God he’s in office again now, standing up where others backed down.

The June 20 strike wasn’t just about military might—it was about moral clarity. Iran had been warned repeatedly. They were told to stop expanding enrichment. They were told to stop threatening our embassies and arming their terror proxies in Syria, Iraq, and Gaza. They chose defiance.

And now, they’re reaping the consequences.

The strike took out key underground enrichment facilities,

paralyzing Iran’s nuclear ambitions without harming civilians. It was targeted, disciplined, and delivered without a single American casualty. In the process, it destroyed years of clandestine progress made by the regime—and showed every rogue state on earth that America is no longer in retreat.

You want to talk about deterrence? That’s deterrence. Meanwhile, President Trump’s decisive action has not only emboldened our allies—it’s reassured Israel, who has stood alone for far too long on the front lines of Islamic terror. Prime Minister Netanyahu praised the strike, calling it a “turning point for regional stability,” and he’s right. Iran’s threats to “erase Israel in 20 minutes” aren’t just talk. They’re policy. And every Jewish man, woman, and child in the Holy Land goes to bed knowing that if Iran had the bomb, they would use it.

Dramatic Water Rescue at Smith Point Park Spotlights Local Firefighters' Training and Readiness

ByRobertChartuk

A coordinated response by local fire departments and emergency services saved a man’s life Friday evening after he was reported struggling in the surf just east of the TWA Flight 800 Memorial.

At approximately 7:07 p.m., a water rescue call reported a swimmer in distress about 100 feet offshore. Multiple agencies mobilized, including fire departments from Mastic Beach, Mastic, Center Moriches, East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton—all members of the Moriches Bay Marine Incident Response Team (MIRT). Suffolk County Park Rangers, Suffolk Police Seventh Precinct officers, and a police helicopter also responded, along with Mastic Beach Ambulance personnel.

Within minutes, the Mastic Beach Fire Department launched its Jet Ski from its station at Smith Point manned by Captain Billy Anderson and Anthony Weiss. The rescue team quickly reached

the victim, secured him, and brought him safely back to shore, where EMTs initiated immediate medical care before transporting him to a nearby hospital.

Fire officials credit the successful rescue to the rapid response and advanced training of local volunteers. “The volunteers undergo extensive training to conduct these rescues,” said Mastic Beach Fire Department Commissioner Bill Biondi. “It takes a lot of time and training to make sure people get home safe.”

The Marine Incident Response Team was created after the U.S. Coast Guard decommissioned its East Moriches station and moved operations to Shinnecock. Since then, responsibility for water rescues along the south shore— from the Smith Point Bridge to Westhampton—has fallen mainly to local fire departments.

While the team’s effectiveness has been proven time and again, Biondi emphasized that the increasing demands placed on

volunteer agencies deserve greater support.

“We’re looking to federal officials to provide funds to assist the departments in carrying out

these critical activities,” Biondi said. “Local taxpayers shouldn’t have to shoulder the full cost of services the Coast Guard used to handle.”

The rescued individual’s condition was not immediately released, but officials confirmed that the swift and skilled response likely prevented a tragedy.

Suffolk County Is Ahead of the Game on 911 Emergency System Upgrades

ByDeborahWilliams

New York State Comptroller

Tom DiNapoli says the state’s 911 system is behind in emergency system upgrades.

At present, fewer than half of New York's 62 counties offer basic text-to-911 service, but Suffolk County is not one of them. Suffolk was way ahead of the game implementing its text-to-911 system in 2018 under then Suffolk County Executive Bellone according to the Public Information Office of the Suffolk County Police Department.

Next Generation 911 (NG911) is a long-promised upgrade to New York’s emergency communications system that would allow photos, voice and video calls and text messaging to be rerouted to other county call centers when major events like natural disasters overwhelm local centers.

However, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES), which is the primary agency responsible for overseeing the state’s transition to NG911, is years behind schedule on adopting the required transition plans and has fallen short in

providing counties with needed guidance on moving forward with implementing statewide interoperable communications, according to an audit released by DiNapoli.

The state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services said the responsibility to implement NG911 lies with individual counties and that the state has provided guidance and more than $500 million in funding since 2010.

“The state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services was supposed to have had this plan in place

when we started our audit,” state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said. “We found that it still wasn’t completed. Interestingly enough, in the course of the audit, they did finalize the plan.”

Moving to Next Generation 911 has complexities beyond just updating equipment. It requires coordination between emergency and public safety officials and multiple state and local government agencies. For counties throughout the state to successfully begin the transition to NG911, a statewide plan and roadmap must be completed and approved.

Continued on page 10

Suffolk County Smoking Quit Line Celebrates 25 Years of Success

ByDeborahWilliams

New York State began serious statewide smoking cessation programs 25 years ago with each of New York’s 62 counties playing keys roles in cooperating with the state and creating their own local footprint to support their residents to stop smoking.

In 2000, New York State, supported by the New York State Department of Health and in collaboration with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, N.Y., launched a minimal telephone service for those seeking guidance on becoming tobaccofree. This “Quit line” quickly grew and evolved to become one of the nation’s busiest and most innovative public health support services.

Suffolk County’s smoking cessation program provides behavior modification and supportive pharmaceuticals to medically eligible participants

with 27 locations around Suffolk County. All cessation groups and programs are supervised by a nurse practitioner and services are provided to residents at no cost. Program participants also receive personalized follow-up. Classes are held one time per week and are about an hour long. The entire program runs 6 weeks, with a reunion class held a month after

the last class. The website is https:// www.nysmokefree.com/localprogram/suffolk/.

Suffolk County Department of Health Services Commissioner, Gregson H. Pigott, MD, MPH said, “The anniversary of the New York State Quitline is a significant milestone that coincides with the 25th anniversary of Suffolk County’s evidence based ‘Learn to

Be Tobacco Free’ tobacco cessation program. Since its inception in 2000, approximately 20,000 residents have taken the course, and we’ve seen smoking rates decline from 21% in 2000 to less than 10% today.”

The NYS Quitline is on pace to surpass 3 million calls in 2026 and mailed more than 1.2 million kits of free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) medications since instituting the practice in 2004. New York State standardized the mass distribution shipping process, creating a standard model for other state Quit Line. NY State Smokers' Quitline- (866) NY-QUITS or www.nysmokefree.com.

"As we celebrate the incredible milestone of 25-years serving New Yorkers, we recognize the remarkable contributions of The New York State Quitline in safeguarding New Yorkers from smoking's adverse effects and

providing support to quit,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “Over the past two and a half decades, they've assisted over a million individuals in quitting and work hard to ensure every New Yorker has access to the right resources to overcome harmful tobacco use."

Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) also has smoking cessation programs. Visit https://www3.sunysuffolk.edu/ tobaccofree/.

SCCC says that good health is an essential component of a successful workplace and a safe teaching and learning environment. For specific details about Suffolk's tobaccofree policy, please see the Official Tobacco-Free Policy.

SCCC encourages all individuals who use tobacco and tobaccorelated products to access smoking cessation programs and services at the College's Health Services Offices.

Suffolk County Smoking Quit Line Celebrates 25 Years of Success

Credit: Grok/Twitter

Credit: New York State Suffolk County is Ahead of the Game on 911 Emergency System Upgrades

Captain Billy Anderson and Anthony Weiss with the Mastic Beach Fire Department, part of the Moriches Bay Marine Incident Response Team, pull a man from the icy waters of the Atlantic off Smith Point.

Credit: Mastic Beach Fire Department

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

A Mother's Love: Setauket Biotech Innovator Named 2025 NYS Senate Woman of Distinction

“Dr. She is truly an inspiration to us all. The story of her son’s rare disease and a mother’s effort to find a cure could as easily be found in a medical journal or a Hollywood script,” New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo spoke of Dr. Yiwei She as he presented her honor.

The pioneering mathematician—who earned her B.S. from Northwestern University and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago—has made extraordinary contributions to medical innovation for ultrarare diseases, per her personal connection and professional convictions.

She founded and serves as CEO of the TNPO2 Foundation, a not-for-profit geared toward revolutionizing early diagnosis and treatment for children with rare conditions.

The foundation recently launched Project Baby Lion in conjunction with the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital NICU. Together, their partnership deploys the foundation’s funding and cutting-edge genome sequencing from Rady Children’s Institute for Genomic Medicine to treat newborns suffering from rare genetic mutations.

“Her tenacity, painstaking research and work that led to a cure for her son has laid the groundwork for

advancements in extremely rare neurodevelopmental diseases and is providing hope and advanced care for infants and their families,”

Palumbo added.

When her infant son Leo became one of only two known individuals worldwide diagnosed

with a severe neurodevelopment disease caused by a mutation in his TNPO2 gene, She developed “Leosen”—an FDA-approved, personalized medicine designed for her son.

A mother’s love knows no bounds, with She’s life’s work serving as proof-positive evidence.

“Dr. Yiwei She exemplifies the spirit of this award,” said Senator Anthony Palumbo. “Her courage, brilliance, and compassion not only gave her son a future, but are now giving hope to families around the world facing similar battles.”

For more information about the TNPO2 Foundation, visit www. tnpo2.org.

Suffolk County Water Authority: A Century of Safeguarding a Vital Resource

ByRobertChartuk

With the Suffolk County Water Authority making history by meeting the federal government’s strict new water quality standards six years in advance, The South Shore Press presents a brief history of the agency.

In the early 20th century, Suffolk’s vast underground aquifer, holding trillions of gallons of pristine water formed by ancient glaciers, was a coveted resource. As New York City and Nassau County eyed this abundant supply, local leaders recognized the need to protect it. This foresight led to the creation of the Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA), a pivotal institution that has grown from a modest advocate for local water rights into a national leader in public water supply, now serving over 1.2 million residents—approximately 85% of Suffolk’s population.

The SCWA’s origins trace back to 1934, when Governor Herbert Lehman signed legislation empowering counties to establish their own water authorities. This move was spurred by growing external pressure to tap into Suffolk’s groundwater, seen as a financial boon during the Great Depression.

Within weeks, Suffolk’s Board of Supervisors, led by Huntington Town Supervisor William Watt, approved the creation of a county water authority. The aim was clear:

to control and protect Suffolk’s water resources, with the option to sell surplus water to bolster county finances. However, this proposal sparked fierce debate. W. Kingsland Macy, who would later become SCWA’s first chairman, initially opposed the authority, calling the idea of municipalities like New York City accessing Suffolk’s water “unthinkable.”

Political wrangling ensued, and in December 1934, the Board of Supervisors rescinded the resolution to form the authority. Legal and regulatory battles kept the issue in limbo until 1937, when Macy reversed his stance, recognizing that a local authority was the best defense against external interests. That March, the Board of Supervisors revived the SCWA, appointing Macy as chairman. Since then, the agency has been directed by a who’s who of local politics, including former Suffolk County Executives Mike LoGrande and Pat Halpin, former Brookhaven Republican Leader Walter Hazlitt, and Charles Lefkowitz, a town board veteran.

The authority’s early years were marked by caution. Macy focused on shielding Suffolk’s water from outside interests, rejecting proposals for an islandwide authority that would dilute Suffolk’s control. It wasn’t until 1949 that the SCWA took a significant step toward becoming

an operational utility. That year, the board voted to condemn the bankrupt South Bay Consolidated Water Company, acquiring its infrastructure across Amityville, Bay Shore, Southampton, and other communities for $7.3 million—a bargain compared to the initial $10 million estimate. This acquisition, finalized in 1951, marked the SCWA’s official start as New York State’s first public benefit

corporation for drinking water, serving 21,000 customers.

The post-World War II population boom transformed Suffolk County, with its population soaring from 276,129 in 1950 to 1.12 million by 1970. The SCWA grew in tandem, fueled by infrastructure expansion and the acquisition of smaller water companies. The construction of the Long Island

Expressway, championed by master developer Robert Moses, accelerated this growth, connecting Suffolk to western markets and spurring development. By 1960, SCWA had added 235 miles of water main, a stark contrast to the 8.2 miles installed in its first year. Today, its network spans over 6,000 miles, enough to stretch from Suffolk to Siberia.

Continued on page 13

Patchogue-Medford Students Inspire $60K Grant for High School Library Renovations

ByRobertChartuk

A passionate group of civics students from PatchogueMedford High School helped secure a $60,000 state “Bullet Grant” for improvements to the school library, thanks to their tireless advocacy and a commitment to creating a lasting impact for future generations.

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano announced the grant following a visit to the school during “Generation Citizen Day,” where students in Mr. Carlson’s civics class presented their long-term vision to modernize the aging library.

“These students have a fire lit in them,” said Assemblyman DeStefano. “They’re not doing this for themselves, but for the generations to come. I’m proud to support their legacy project with resources and funding. The library is the heart of the school, and they understand that deeply.”

The grant, secured through the Assembly’s Bullet Aid program, will help advance existing renovations and fund new improvements. Students

Credit: Office of

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano with the students of the Patchogue-Medford High School civics class.

targeted the funds toward upgraded technology, quiet study areas, makerspaces, new books, and an overall refresh of the library’s aesthetic, making it a more welcoming and productive academic and social hub.

“These kids are remarkable,” said Mr. Carlson. “They’ve met with school administrators, local officials, and now a state legislator—all because they believe their peers deserve a better space to learn and grow. They’re learning civics by living it.”

The student presenters included:

• Anais Bueno

• Ethan Evola-Anitra

• Juan Carlos Flor

• Justin Gonzalez

• Gavin Henaghan

• Marc Iarocci

• Anthony Irvolino

• Hannah Nuzzo

• Kyla O’Sullivan

• Sophia Scrubb

• Charlize Semidey

“This is just the beginning,” said one student. “We’ve seen how using our voice can make a difference. And we’re not stopping here.”

Dr. Yiwei She and Senator Anthony Palumbo, 1st Senate District

Credit: The New York State Senate

Credit: SCWA

Assemblyman DeStefano

ByRobertChartuk

New "Welcome to Center Moriches" Sign Greets Visitors on Main Street

A beautifully crafted “Welcome to Center Moriches” sign now adorns Main Street, proudly positioned in front of the historic Havens House at the East Moriches border. The sign was generously donated by the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Association, led by Superintendent Steve Scerri, and was unveiled in a community celebration on a sunny morning.

At the unveiling, Superintendent Scerri was joined by community leaders and volunteers, including Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches President Jackie Osborne and members Art Gerhauser, Mark Danieski, and Gerri Sapanaro. Representatives from the nearby Ketcham Inn Foundation, Bert Seides and Zach Jacob, participated, emphasizing the area’s rich heritage. Also present was Suzanne McKeon, board member of the Downtown Beautification Committee.

Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig praised the project, calling the sign “a gorgeous new gateway to our community” and “a testament to what we can achieve when everyone comes together.”

East End Sign Design, Puccio Electric, and GP Stonework assisted in its production and installation, while the Moriches Garden Club takes care of the plant beds that frame the sign.

Center Moriches, nestled on the shores of Moriches Bay, traces its origins to around 1655, when

English tinsmith Samuel Terrell and other settlers were drawn by the area’s streams, fertile farmland, and coastal resources. The name “Moriches” is believed to derive from Meritces, a Native American figure who lived near the Terrell River, which flows into Moriches Bay.

Directly behind the sign stands the Havens House, a landmark homestead built in stages from the mid-18th century. The property originally extended along the Terrell River to Moriches Bay and was owned by the Havens family for generations. The home was relocated across Main Street in 1971 by the Moriches Bay Historical Society and is today interpreted by the Society as the John Scudder and Mary Pelletreau Havens Homestead,

featuring colonial origins (circa 1750) and a substantial 1898 Dutch gambrel-style addition.

Across the street lies the Havens Estate, now Terrell River County Park, a 263-acre preserve purchased by Suffolk County in 1986. This beautiful park, stewarded by the Moriches Bay Audubon Society, offers hiking trails, serene bird-watching, and access to the Great South Bay.

Councilwoman Dunne Kesnig reflected on the sign’s meaning: “This sign is more than wood and paint—it’s our community’s welcome mat. It beautifully honors our past while signaling a bright future.” She noted how the collaboration among the cemetery association, volunteers, and businesses highlighted the tight-knit nature of Center

For Jackie Osborne and the Chamber of Commerce, the sign serves as a landmark and a cornerstone of their mission to promote local heritage and unity. Board members emphasized their enthusiasm for future beautification efforts along Main Street.

As drivers and visitors come into Center Moriches from the east, they are now greeted by more than a sign—they’re welcomed by five centuries of history, community dedication, and the promise of a shared future. The new sign is a physical expression of what Center Moriches already is: a welcoming, historic, and vibrant gateway to eastern Brookhaven.

Bill to Aid Patchogue Church Clears Legislature

ByRobertChartuk

A bill granting a longoverdue property tax exemption to an East Patchogue church is one has cleared the state Legislature thanks to its local sponsors: Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano and Senator Dean Murray.

The bill authorizes the Town of Brookhaven Assessor to accept a late application for tax-exempt status from the Calvary Full Gospel Assembly of God Church. Located on Sipp Avenue, the property would have qualified for a real property tax exemption under New York State law, had the application been filed on time.

“This is about fairness and supporting the faith-based organizations that serve our communities day in and day out,” said DeStefano, whose district includes East Patchogue. “Calvary Church didn’t suddenly start being a

church after the deadline— they’ve been a vital presence in the neighborhood for years. We’re just helping them get

the tax status they already deserve.”

The bill would allow the town to treat the exemption

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application as if it had been filed on time for the 2023–2024 assessment roll. If approved locally, the town could adjust the property’s tax bill and issue a refund for taxes already paid.

According to DeStefano, the church plays a key role in the lives of many residents.

“This congregation is feeding families, counseling those in need, and lifting people up during tough times,” he said. “The last thing they should be worried about is an administrative deadline that could cost them thousands in unnecessary taxes. I’m proud to fight for them.”

Calvary Full Gospel Assembly of God is expected to work with Brookhaven officials to complete the exemption process once the legislation becomes law. It’s currently on its way to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for signature.

Robert Chartuk, Deborah Williams, Howard Roark, Stefan Mychajliw, Tom Barton, Nancy Burner, Fredrick Miller, Rich Acritelli, Michael J. Reistetter, Tara D’Amato

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Calvary Full Gospel Assembly of God Church

Showing off the new “Welcome to Center Moriches” sign are, from left, Jackie Osborne, Art Gerhauser, Gerri Sapanaro, Suzanne McKeon, Steve Scerri, Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, Bert Seides, Zack Jacob, and Mark Danowski.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: Robert Chartuk

ByRobertChartuk

Jimmy and Jackie Osborne Keep the Music Playing in Center Moriches

Beloved local duo celebrates 28 years of sharing music, memories, and Main Street magic.

For more than a generation, Jimmy and Jackie Osborne have been tuning up the spirit of Center Moriches—one note, one student, and one concert at a time.

As the heart and soul of Jimmy Osborne Music, a Main Street fixture for 28 years, the Osbornes have created more than just a music shop. They’ve built a community. Whether performing in their high-energy band Chain Reaction or as the soulful Duet After Dark, mentoring young musicians, or hosting concerts under the summer sun, their harmony—on stage and in life—is unmistakable.

“We believe music is a gift that lasts a lifetime,” said Jimmy, a thirdgeneration piano man whose musical legacy runs deep. “It’s something you pass down, like a treasured family recipe—except it’s made of melody and rhythm.”

Jimmy’s musical roots go back more than a century. His father, Chester Osborne, taught music

at Center Moriches High School for over 40 years. Chester’s father, James, and grandfather, Henry, were also musicians, creating a legacy Jimmy is proud to carry on. “I grew up in a house where music wasn’t background noise—it was the heartbeat of our home,” he said.

Jackie, a fourth-grade teacher at Eastport Elementary School and president of the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, brings her own energy and vision to the mix. For the past three years, she’s led the chamber in organizing events like the Moriches Spring Street Fair, where Chain Reaction lit up the stage this year. The chamber also hosts a free summer concert series that draws families, friends, and music lovers from across the East End.

Their shop—recently given a fresh new look by local interior designer Suzanne McKeon of Plum Cottage, Ltd.—offers more than sheet music and reeds. It’s a full-service music center:

• Instrumental training for children and adults in piano, guitar, bass, voice, brass, strings, woodwind, and percussion

• Expert preparation for student

competitions with organizations like NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association), SCMEA (Suffolk County Music Educators Association), and HMEA (Hampton Music Educators Association)

• Instrument rentals, piano tuning and repair, music accessories, and even a selection of musical-themed gifts

• Live entertainment bookings for weddings, parties, and community events

What sets Jimmy Osborne Music apart is the personal touch: Every instructor is a certified music teacher, many of them former students who once walked through the door as beginners and now inspire the next generation.

“We’ve had students go on to major in music, teach in schools, perform in touring bands—or just enjoy being musicians for life,” Jackie said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch that growth.”

For Jimmy, the piano is more than an instrument—it’s a life force. “The piano is my voice. It’s how I connect with people, how I teach, how I unwind,” he said. “Every student I

work with, I try to help them find their own voice through music, too. My dad and granddad taught me that—now it’s my turn.”

Jimmy and Jackie are proud lifelong locals who see their work as part of a broader mission: keeping music alive in the community.

“We want to pass on the tradition of music to every kid who walks through our door,” said Jackie. “It’s not just about lessons—it’s about

joy, discipline, creativity, and connection.”

As they approach three decades on Main Street, the Osbornes show no signs of slowing down. Whether it’s preparing students for highlevel competitions, performing for packed summer crowds, or helping a beginner find the perfect first instrument, their melody continues. And in Center Moriches, that song sounds sweeter every year.

New Dance Studio Brings Energy and Passion to Main Street Center Moriches

ByRobertChartuk

A new rhythm is moving through Main Street in Center Moriches with the opening of Fearless Dance Company, a fresh and dynamic dance studio led by seasoned instructor and Long Island native Cassandra Scala.

A familiar face in the Center Moriches dance community, Scala was asked by the former owners of the space to take over the studio—a gesture that speaks volumes about the trust and admiration she’s earned over the years. “They told me, ‘You’re the one to carry this forward,’ and I was honored,” said Scala, who brings over two decades of dance experience and 12 years of teaching expertise to the new venture.

Cassandra’s dance journey began at the age of seven. She was a competitive dancer trained in all

styles through her teens, earning numerous titles and awards through standout solo and group performances. She served as captain of her high school dance team and was a founding member and soloist of the Arrhythmia Dance Company, one of Long Island’s first preprofessional dance programs. As dance captain with Arrhythmia, she performed at prestigious venues including the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater and the A.C.E. Awards, while also participating in charitable performances that supported causes like Toys for Tots.

“I’ve always seen dance as more than just movement,” Cassandra said. “It’s about expressing yourself, building confidence, and creating a space where kids can grow on and off the stage.”

Fearless Dance Company offers jazz, lyrical, choreography, and

dance technique classes for all ages and levels. Scala has experience directing competitive and recreational programs, and her choreography is recognized at the regional and national levels. Her goal is to cultivate an atmosphere where dancers feel supported and free to push their limits. “To dance and to live fearlessly—that’s the heart of what I want to teach,” she

said.

Among the first students to register was 7-year-old Regan Frame of Center Moriches, who has studied with Cassandra for four years. “Miss Cassandra makes me feel like I can do anything,” Regan said proudly. “She helps me sparkle on stage!” Regan also performed her first solo under Scala’s guidance.

“She’s a little nugget,” Cassandra

said with a laugh. “Watching her grow has been such a joy.” Longtime student and competitive dancer Tatyana Thawe of Shirley echoed the praise. “She is amazing; very kind, fun, generous, and loving,” Thawe said. “She always encourages us and makes us believe we can be our best. She’s not just a teacher, she’s a mentor.”

Continued on page 11

Scholarship Season: Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Rewards Two Graduating Seniors

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

As their high school careers came to a close, Owen Timm, of Ward Melville High School, and Matteo Gravinese, of Rocky Point High School, each received $500 scholarships.

Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro issued said awards, courtesy of the Suffolk County Highway Superintendents Association.

The graduating seniors are both set to pursue careers in engineering.

“Each year, the quality and quantity of applications we receive for the Highway Superintendents Association scholarship increases, making the selection process

more and more challenging,” said Superintendent Losquadro.

“Owen and Matteo have extremely impressive resumes and high school course loads,”

he added. “I wish them both all the best as they continue their education and hope they will return to Brookhaven to pursue their engineering careers and share their talents with us.”

Cassandra Scala of the Fearless Dance Company says hello to student Regan Frame and her mother, Courtney.

Jimmy and Jackie Osborne

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: Town of Brookhaven

L to R: Owen Timm, Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro, and Matteo Gravinese

ByDeborahWilliams

Long Islanders Will Receive Nearly $700 Million in STAR Tax Relief

Suffolk and Nassau County residents will benefit from the latest School Tax Relief (STAR) program. 582,000 residents will benefit to the tune of $698.4 million in STAR relief.

Long Island school tax bills are typically sent out in September with October and November due dates. As of now, the State projects that there will be about 301,000 recipients in Suffolk County.

That's a welcome boost to the wallets of residents in Suffolk County and Long Island generally. STAR benefits most homeowners with income below $500,000 with a rebate of between $350 to $600. Most seniors with income below

$107,300 will receive a rebate between $700 to $1,500.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that nearly 3 million

New Yorkers will receive $2.2 billion in STAR tax relief this summer and fall. STAR provides property tax relief to eligible homeowners and seniors statewide.

STAR recipients can visit ny.gov/ STAR to track their check delivery or enroll in direct deposit.

“Summer is here — and it’s also the start of STAR tax relief season for millions of New Yorkers,”

Governor Hochul said. “From tax credits to child care assistance and much more, we’re continuing to put more money back in New Yorkers’ pockets.”

Homeowners and seniors who are eligible and enrolled in the STAR program receive their benefit each year in one of two ways: as an exemption that reduces their school tax bill, or as a credit issued as a check or direct deposit.

Homeowners who are registered and eligible for the STAR credit can expect to receive their STAR credit before the deadline for their school taxes. Some parts of the state — including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse — have due

Suffolk County West Robbins Oyster Company

dates in July and will receive their STAR benefits between the end of June and mid-July. Benefits across other parts of the state will continue to roll out statewide throughout the summer and fall.

Those who receive the STAR credit as a check or direct deposit can visit the STAR Credit Delivery Schedule at the STAR website to learn when credits will be issued in their area. Property owners who are looking for details about STAR credits that have already been issued should visit the Property Tax Credit Lookup tab on the website.

To ensure homeowners receive their STAR credit by direct deposit this year, they should enroll as soon as possible.

Wins State Agriculture

Grant

will

a

West

of

ByDeborahWilliams

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that 19 farm and food organizations are being awarded a total of $13.7 million through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Grant Program.

Suffolk County’s West Robins Oyster Company (WROC), LLC will receive a grant of $632,450.00 from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Farm and Food Growth Fund to construct a new 2,000 square-foot shellfish processing and storage facility on Long Island.

The funding is the first of two grant programs announced last year as part of a cooperative agreement between New York State and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service to expand middle of the supply chain work to create a more resilient food system in New York State.

West Robins is guided by the philosophy that oyster farming is one of the most environmentally responsible (and most delicious) forms of protein production mankind has ever adapted, and we want a food future with fewer

negative environmental impacts.

The company started in 2015 when co-founders Will Peckham and Walker Lourie say they “hatched the idea of starting a shellfish farm – of updating tradition, farming regeneratively, and doing good and well.”

The project will allow post-harvest grading, aggregating, and processing of farm-raised oysters, clams, scallops, and organic vegetables by five beginning farmers. WROC’s expanded processing and production capacity will increase the availability of new value-added, shelf-stable products such as frozen breaded shellfish and shellfish chowders for distribution to wholesale, retail, and institutional markets.

“Farmers are our lifeblood –they nourish our families and fuel our economy, and it is more important than ever that we invest in projects that bolster our local food supply chain here in New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “The Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program provides critical funding to make our food systems at the local and state level more resilient for years to come by investing in projects that modernize agricultural facilities, improve

training, and facilitate the purchase of new equipment. I’m proud to support this great work and shore up a strong future for New York State.”

First announced in May 2024, the

RFSI Grant Program offers a total of over $14.7 million through two grant opportunities — Infrastructure Grants and Equipment-Only Grants — to provide capital and technical assistance to farmers and food

businesses operating at the middle of the supply chain, helping to enhance coordination throughout the food system and improve access to markets for farmers.

Village of Port Jefferson Cup Regatta to Set Sail for Pancreatic Cancer Research

ByDeborahWilliams

The 16th annual Village Cup Regatta, a friendly competition between Mather Hospital and the Village of Port Jefferson, will set sail on Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Presented by the Port Jefferson Yacht Club in partnership with the Village of Port Jefferson, the Regatta raises funds for Mather Hospital’s Palliative Medicine Program and the Lustgarten Foundation, the largest private funder of pancreatic cancer research in the world.

Last year’s Regatta raised $80,000, which was divided between Mather Hospital and the Lustgarten Foundation. That brought the total raised over the 15 years of the Regatta to more than $1 million!

The Regatta consists of Yacht Club-skippered sailboats divided into two teams representing Mather Hospital and the Village of Port Jefferson. Employees from the Hospital and Village, along with village residents, help crew the boats, which race in one of three classes based on boat size. Crew members and captains start gathering at 9 a.m. in the lower Yacht Club lot next to Harborfront Park in Port Jefferson Village.

The festivities begin in the park at 10 a.m., where you can

purchase shirts, commemorative hats, nautical bags and mugs.

The Memorial Parade of Boats in remembrance of those lost to pancreatic cancer can be viewed from the Port Jefferson Village Dock beginning at 11 a.m.

All sailboats participating in the Regatta will pass by dressed in banners and nautical flags on their way out to the racecourse on Long Island Sound.

Following the Regatta, a celebratory Skipper’s Reception and presentation of the Village Cup will take place in a restored 1917 shipyard building that today serves as the Port Jefferson Village Center.

To sign up as a crew member visit Village Cup Sign Up. For

more information contact Cindy Court at 631-476-2723 or ccourt1@northwell.edu.

Businesses, organizations and individuals can support the Regatta and the programs it funds by sponsoring, donating, or purchasing tickets to attend the Skipper’s Reception. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit the Regatta Facebook page.

The Port Jefferson Yacht Club started the Regatta primarily to call attention to and support efforts to combat pancreatic cancer, which had claimed the lives of two of its members. The event also promotes a closer relationship between the Club and the Village in the wonderful maritime setting we share.

Long Islanders Will Receive Nearly $700 Million in STAR Tax Relief

Suffolk County’s

Robins Oyster Company (WROC), LLC

receive

grant

$632,450.00 from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.

Credit: New York State Department of Taxation

Credit: West Robins Oyster Company

Credit: Village of Port Jefferson Yacht Club Village of Port Jefferson Cup Regatta to Set Sail for Pancreatic Cancer Research

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Matthew Zoll Memorial: '(He)…Developed a Severe Form of Schizophrenia'

Joseph Zoll, Jr., penned a letter publicly available on everloved.com last week in memoriam of his late brother, Brian, 23, whose body was found last month in a backyard pool in East Shoreham after a six-month search for his whereabouts.

The departed Sound Beach resident was solemnly commemorated in a Christian mass ceremony that commenced at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 14th, the day prior to Father’s Day.

The location—St. Anthony’s of Padua R.C. Church on Rt. 25A in Rocky Point—was the same parish where the Zoll patriarch, Joseph Zoll, Sr.’s funeral service was held after Matthew fatally stabbed his dad on Nov. 9th while in the throes of a psychotic episode.

Family and friends gathered once more to mourn a Zoll this past weekend, one who first made headlines last fall. After killing his father, Matthew subsequently disappeared amidst the mental health crisis the family has now indicated as commensurate to the

“severe form of schizophrenia” he “greatly suffered from.”

Matthew had previously gone missing at an earlier date while off of his medication.

In his obituary, Joseph, Jr., both vowed to, and asked that others remember his brother not for the circumstances surrounding his tragic demise, but for the “remarkable person he was in every way.”

“Our family, including my late father, fought together to get him all the help he needed,” he wrote.

“He loved my father, my mother, my sisters and I so very much… we all love and miss him dearly.”

Visiting hours for Matthew were held Friday night at the Rocky Point Funeral Home.

A private cremation followed Saturday’s service.

Matthew graduated from Rocky Point High School in 2019, and attended Syracuse University thereafter.

His last known whereabouts,

before his body was found last month: He crashed his dad’s SUV before retreating into the woods to avoid detection.

Matthew’s body was found on May 25th beneath a partially unsecured swimming pool cover at a Pal Court home. The residence actually belonged to a Suffolk

E-Bike Popularity Is Growing Fast

ByDeborahWilliams

Summer is here and cyclists are out on the roads and in the parks. E-bikes have become especially popular whether they are pedal assist or 100% electric.

South Shore Press spoke to Roger Young from Kreb Cycle bicycle shop who services e-bikes. Kreb Cycle has locations in Bellport at 10 Bell St. and Eastport at 496 Montauk Hgwy. The Bellport location has a long history being in business over 35 years.

“A lot of folks who buy these bikes don't realize how fast and dangerous they can be. They are a lot of fun and a great way to get around either for short commutes or sight seeing, but you have to follow the basic safety rules,” said Young.

E-bikes can cause confusion for many users. How fast can they go, do they need a license plate, can I drive on the road?

There are three classes of e-bikes.

Class 1 is pedal assist only. Class two is throttle and pedal assist up to 20 miles an hour. Class three is throttle 20 miles an hour and pedal assist up to 28.

Young added, “I view e-bikes as kind of a replacement for a car, which is perfect for the our area. Get on your bike, go to the store, you lock it up outside, do your shopping and ride home. It's kind of silly to use your car for that mile round trip.”

New York State law allows people to operate e-scooters and e-bikes on some streets and highways in New York State. The highways must have a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less. You cannot operate these devices on a sidewalk except as authorized by local law or ordinance. Wherever possible e-bikes should be used on bike lanes. New York City has its own e-bike laws.

Young said as far as safety on

e-bikes, “Helmets, for sure and definitely make sure that your e-bike is compliant within the three classes and also UL certified. That really is a big issue in New York City because of all the fires in the apartments. That has to do with the battery stability and battery safety, because e-bikes use lithium batteries.

“In NYC, your e-bike will be impounded if the battery is not UL

County Police detective who served as part of the U.S. Marshals Service task force unit tasked to search for him in the fall.

The detective and his teenage son were opening the pool ahead for the summer when they discovered the body the Suffolk County Police Department later confirmed was

certified,” said Young. The growing use of e-bikes in New York City has underlined the importance that they be used responsibly and safely to avoid accidents involving pedestrians or other road users. While existing regulations limit e-bike width and speed, they do not address maximum weight, which directly correlates with the severity of injuries in accidents.

Matthew Zoll.

The memorial site for Matthew has raised $1,000 from 22 contributors for the Schizophrenia International Research Society, as of Tuesday, June 17th.

In lieu of flowers, friends and relatives are encouraged to share memories, photos, and personal notes here, so that the everloved page may continue to exist as a place of positivity.

“Matthew had a big heart and big dreams,” Amy Pena wrote. “I cherish the simple moments where he would trust his friends with his closest desires and dreams. He would sit with me when he could tell something was off and talk with me. He was loved by friends and shared that back always.”

“I look forward to carrying on my brother and father in their story and spirit,” Joseph., Jr. added.

“For now though, I thank you for the paying of respect and kind words not only to my best friend, but also to my dad, who we all lost that same night.”

To address this, Governor Hochul will propose reclassifying ultraheavy Class 3 e-bikes weighing 100 pounds or more as mopeds, requiring a driver’s license and registration to operate. This change will keep the heaviest and most dangerous e-bikes out of bike lanes, improving safety for pedestrians and other cyclists. It is expected this change would eventually apply statewide.

T-Birds to Serve Country: Connetquot HS Honors Students Entering Military

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Between Flag Day and Fourth of July, Connetquot High School took the time to congratulate and commemorate an esteemed batch of graduates in waiting—nine seniors who have committed to serving in the U.S. military.

A special recognition ceremony was held on June 20th, and it was a resounding success for all those in attendance.

The district’s young men and women of the hour celebrated were as follows: Ayden Brandl (U.S. Coast Guard), Nicholas Bruer (U.S. Navy), Santiago Chavez Velez (U.S. Marines), Caden McLaughlin (U.S. Coast Guard), Justin Materazo (U.S. Air Force ROTC), Lorenzo Marasciullo (U.S. Navy), Molly Murphy (U.S. Navy), Laura Sanchez (U.S. Air National Guard) and Matthew Weaver (U.S. Navy).

Principal Michael Moran expressed his gratitude for these students choosing to take their commitment to community service and protection to an even grander scale. He noted the nobility and honorability of their sacrificial path in his statement.

In a day and age where tensions are quite high stateside, something

that can’t be denied to these brave students is their national pride. They are destined to fight in the face of devastation—taking on experiences unimaginable to make our lives a little easier on the home front.

May they all carry on and prosper as they embark upon their respective journeys.

Happy memories of the Zoll family (T) and Matthew Zoll (far right, B) as shared on everloved.com.

Krebs Cycle bike shop talks about e-bikes.

Credit: Krebs Cycle bike shop

Credit: Connetquot Central School District

Nine Connetquot High School seniors who will be entering into various branches of the United States military following graduation were honored with a special recognition ceremony on June 20. (Not pictured: Santiago Chavez Velez).

'Stay' by Rihanna On Repeat! Hooters of Farmingdale to Remain in Business

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

This just in: Hooters restaurants have developed a knack for hightailing it out of the neighborhood.

We used to bike to our beloved Buffalo Wing-serving sports bar, even shotgun-attend as our foremost paternal influences’ passenger princes prior.

Then, one day, we were finally able to drive there ourselves—only to find that it had been turned into a Starbucks.

Yes, Hooters off LIE Exit 58, RIP since 2013, we’re talking to you.

Fast-forward to 2025: Hooters corporate made like Michael Scott when they declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year.

Ripple effect: all across the nation, a mass casualty of appetiteharpooning proportions has transpired: the folding and foreclosing of one Hooters after another—including over 40 this month alone.

C’mon. Don’t do that.

For reasons that escape us, it’s considered a tad taboo these days to exhibit a shameless display of passion for the chain that, for our money—and we rarely have any because of how often we frequent the Hoot House—still serves the best bleu cheese in all the land.

Even a mega movie star turned unofficial spokesman for the bodacious brand like serial pick-up baller Adam Sandler hasn’t made an in-film visit to Hoot HQ since he and Drew Barrymore’s rom-comical blind date during the scorching hot open of 2014’s criminally underrated “Blended.” And hey, while we’re on one, whatever happened to Jonah Hill’s John Daly biopic? Though we digress as much as we profess and digress.

Thankfully for the 516 and the 631, there is a house in Farmingdale—they call the Owl Dome.

Appropriately mere yards away from Adventureland, Long Island’s last Hooters left alive is still making enough of a buck to maintain its operative post, the franchisee told local media.

At any given moment within the most popular amusement park on the block for those who outgrew rollercoaster rides but never gave up the curly-fried linger in their eyes, you can turn to see autographed photos galore from a bygone time called yesteryear.

Snapshots of wonderfully—not woefully—tank-topped waitresses posing with evergreen A-listers whose celebrity is synonymous with infectious charm and championship energy: Vince Vaughn, how you

doin’ buddy? / Pass me a moisttowelette, Tiger Woods. Several. Suddenly, you’re taken back to your childhood.

It was a place where the dads who volunteered to coach Little League or took teams following a big win. It was especially a place to flock to after suffering a great loss, because what cheers a kid up more than dourly denial? I see the hardship you're sending me, and raise you a medium rare cheeseburger with not one, not two, but three perfect Pepsi's (everyone knows the calories

don’t count when you just played a diggity double-header in 99-degree weather).

However, if asked, you indeed proved victorious at that day's game. After all, “there’s no crying in baseball!” as Tom Hanks exclaimed in 1992’s “A League of Their Own.” And there's no tears shed at what pop culture would define as the opposite of a She Shed—perhaps a He Heaven?

It was a place where kids lit up with glee like a Christmas tree while egged on by their peers and

staff alike to get up on the table and Hula-Hoop with Hooters' finest on their birthday—even if it wasn’t their birthday, thanks Uncles who aren't really our Uncles.

It was a place called that home away from home for all those who appreciate live sports, wings, the little things and the big…picture. At least in Farmingdale, it’s still that place. We’ll see you there.

We’ll be the ones with ear-toear grins—not basking in jubilation because it happened. Nor crying because it’s over, as “Short ‘n Sweet” and “Man’s Best Friend” super-force Sabrina Carpenter soothe-andsoulfully sang during the first of consecutive summers she rightfully christened hers.

We’re smiling, because it’s still happening; both at 25 Smith Street, and in our hearts. So long as we don’t get a string of celery stuck in our throats. For if there’s no Dr. Moonlight Graham there to save us, we may just have to radically change our diets before our favorite eatery up and becomes a field of screams per an inopportune mouthful of misery.

Just kidding. We don’t enjoy riots. Only quiet ones.

Now come [sic] on, feel the noise [sicker]. Do do that.

St. John the Baptist's Blessing Box in Center Moriches Celebrates Four Years of Giving

ByDeborahWilliams

The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist on Railroad Ave. in Center Moriches is celebrating four years of having a Blessing Box serving the community.

The Blessing Box concept relies on the generosity of individuals to stock it with items. It's not just about providing food or necessities; it's about spreading a sense of

community, compassion and kindness. The community members that need, take and the community members that can give, give. It’s the perfect circle of giving.

“The Blessing Box was given to our church by an organization called Neighbors Being Human. They had youth group builds and built five or six of the boxes. They had one left over and we were fortunate to be

the recipient,” says Barbara Champ Member of St. John the Baptist and steward of their Blessing Box. “What you see in the box represents the total community effort and use.”

Neighbors Being Human is the community mission of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Yaphank, N.Y. Their goal is to provide support to those facing food insecurity and homelessness and to ultimately help lift people out of poverty.

The giving and the taking are all anonymous. There are no forms or any requirements to demonstrate income or need.

Champ said, “There are two other Blessing Boxes that I know of in our community - one at St John the Evangelist that is an Eagle Scout project, and one at Christ Lutheran Church. Both were built and installed in 2021.”

A Blessing Box is meant to hold nonperishable food and hygiene items. Champ cautioned about putting books in them. There are Little Libraries meant especially for books.

“We have food pantry at our church on Tuesday nights. If I look at the box before the pantry opens to straighten it out and then look after, I see things are missing, things are added. So, people are using it even within that 90 minutes that our

pantry is open,” Champ said.

Unfortunately, the Blessing Box has been vandalized twice, but both times Good Samaritans stepped up to fix it and put it back in service.

Some of the best items to donate are cans with pop tops (for those living unsheltered), packets of tuna or chicken, canned proteins like chicken, tuna, Spam, vienna sausages. Also canned veggies, pasta, rice, cereal, plastic (not glass) jars of pasta sauce, ketchup, mustard, etc.. Also toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoos , soap, etc..

What not to put in a Blessing Box?

• Perishable foods and fresh produce.

• Items packaged in glass.

• Damaged canned goods. Foods past the 'best by', 'use by', or 'sell by' date.

• Sharps (razors, needles, etc.)

• Chemicals (harsh or dangerous cleaners)

• Alcohol and age-restricted items.

• Used or previously opened items.

Isn't She Lovely?

The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist

The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist Blessing Box

Credit: Michael J. Reistetter

Credit: The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist

Credit: The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist

ByRobertChartuk

Huge Turnout for County Executive Event

A cross section of Suffolk— elected officials, law enforcement, labor leaders, and residents— made a big showing for County Executive Ed Romaine at his Nine and Dine golf fundraiser at the Baiting Hollow Club.

Introducing the man of the hour was District Attorney Ray Tierney, up for reelection this year, who said he appreciated Romaine’s support of law enforcement. “Everything we asked of him to help keep Suffolk safe, he has done,” said Tierney, who expressed appreciation for the county executive being at his side in fighting for changes to the state’s lax criminal justice laws.

Emceeing the event was Suffolk GOP Chairman Jesse Garcia, who noted that Romaine headed a team of Republican officials, including the majority of the county legislature, who are keeping local government focused on public safety and affordability.

Joining the county executive was the Presiding Officer of the Suffolk Legislature, Kevin McCaffrey, along with legislators Dominick Thorne, Karen Stark, and Jim Mazzarella, who represents Romaine’s

hometown of Center Moriches. His successor as Brookhaven Town Supervisor, Dan Panico, was there, as was Councilman Neil Foley and Assemblywoman Jodi Gilgio. Making a celebrity appearance was former major league pitcher Doc Gooden, a fan of the county executive.

“I need everyone to step up to the plate to help make Suffolk better and better,” Romaine told the crowd. “We’re all in this together.”

Rechler Equity, Renu Contracting & Restoration, Suffolk County Correction Officers, and Suffolk County PBA were among the top event sponsors. Other supporters included Austin Interiors, East End Blinds, H2M Architects & Engineers, IBEW Local 25, IUOE Local 138, LiRo-Hill, Suffolk County Superior Officers Association, Barclay Damon LLP, Suffolk County Brake Service/ Gabrielli, CIS, D.F. Contracting, Ltd., Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter, John McCaffrey, Just Kids Diagnostic & Treatment Center, Laborers Local 1298, LK McLean Associates, NASRCC Political Education Committee–NYS PAC, Suffolk County Deputy Sheriffs PBA, Trius Inc., and All Systems Plumbing.

Congressmen Host Labor Secretary for Long Island Workforce Development Tour

ByRobertChartuk

Expanding workforce training programs was the theme as U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori ChavezDeRemer came to Long Island for a daylong tour focused on preparing residents for high-demand jobs in construction, clean energy, and advanced trades.

The visit with Congressmen Andrew Garbarino and Nick LaLota began at the Local 290 Training Center in Hauppauge, where the delegation observed

apprentices training in welding, framing, and acoustical systems. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer spoke with students and met with leaders from the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters.

The tour continued at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood, where the group explored the National Offshore Wind Training Center, a cuttingedge initiative equipping workers with specialized skills for jobs in the growing offshore wind sector. The facility offers training in areas such

as fire awareness, sea survival, and working-at-heights safety.

“Long Island has long been a leader in workforce innovation, and today’s visit showcased the strong partnerships between labor, education, and government that are building pathways to goodpaying jobs for local workers,” Rep. Garbarino said. “These initiatives are not only equipping our workforce with the skills they need, they’re also strengthening Long Island’s economic future.”

Rep. LaLota emphasized the importance of investing in job training to keep the region competitive. “Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Suffolk

County and her engagement with Long Island’s blue-collar labor leaders highlight the new Republican Party’s commitment to supporting both business growth and hardworking Americans through fair wages, safe working conditions, and expanded opportunities,” LaLota said.

Secretary Chavez-DeRemer praised the region’s efforts to grow a skilled workforce and linked the success to the broader goals of the Trump administration.

“Long Island’s skilled workforce is thriving under President Trump’s leadership, with thousands of new jobs created since he took office,” she said. “When we invest in skills

and opportunity, we empower our men and women to build better lives.”

Anthony Villa, business manager for Local 290, called the visit an important recognition of the role tradespeople play in building the state’s economy. “Our world-class training center ensures that the next generation of carpenters has the skills they need to be successful,” Villa said.

The tour drew leaders from organized labor, education, and county government, underscoring a coordinated effort to expand Long Island’s talent pipeline and support industries critical to the region’s economic growth.

Suffolk County Is Ahead...

Continued from page 3

DHSES had said that the State 911 Plan would be ready by December 2022 but delays, including a three-year suspension of operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, have left counties in limbo. The plan was finally released in April 2025, three months after the conclusion of the audit. The audit found that, based on its current status of

planning, New York state was still years away from having NG911 implemented

The success of statewide communication operability is dependent on counties’ readiness for NG911. Twenty-two of the 36 counties (61%) that responded to the auditors survey reported that they had not received any guidance from DHSES on the NG911 transition. The

that did get some guidance said it did not contain details or specifics and they remained unsure how they were supposed to plan for the upgrade or fund it.

DiNapoli’s audit called on DHSES to finalize the State 911 Plan to include NG911 and monitor counties' progress in implementing technologies to meet the goals it sets.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer chats with members of the Council of Carpenters as Rep. Andrew Garbarino looks on.

Credit: Rep. Garbarino’s office

14 counties

County Executive Ed Romaine, left, and Suffolk Republican Chairman Jesse Garcia.

County Executive Ed Romaine, right, welcomes Legislators Jim Mazzarella and Katherine Stark.

County Executive Ed Romaine, left, Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, GOP Chairman Jesse Garcia, and Kevin McCaffrey, presiding officer of the Suffolk Legislature.

County Executive Ed Romaine, left, and Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

ByDeborahWilliams

Suffolk County Resident Scammed Out of $40,000

The Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) is once again reminding residents not to fall victim to scams and especially scams involving law enforcement impersonation.

In a truly unfortunate incident, a Suffolk County resident was recently scammed out of $40,000 of their hard-earned money. They sent the funds via multiple transactions after receiving calls and texts from someone pretending to be a member of the SCPD.

The victim was told an unknown person was using his identity to commit crimes and if he did not send money, an arrest warrant would be issued. The victim was contacted during the span of several months and provided wire transfers as well as opened two loans to send money.

More information on the victim is not being released by the police department at this time.

The victim in this instance was not a senior citizen, but it is often vulnerable seniors that do fall victim, losing funds that they rely on to pay monthly bills. These scammers are sophisticated and hard to track. It is highly unlikely funds stolen by professional scammers will ever be recouped.

The Suffolk County Police Department will never demand money in lieu of an arrest. It is important to keep the

following tips in mind to protect yourself and your bank account.

• Don't answer unknown calls and don't believe your caller ID!

• Don't respond to any messages that ask for your personal or financial information.

• Scammers can spoof a number to appear they are calling from a legitimate company or government entity. If they start asking for money or making demands, hang up and call the company or agency directly.

• Do not provide personal information, wire money or send gift cards.

• Talk to someone! Before you give up your money or personal information, talk to someone you trust such as a family member. Con artists want you to make decisions in a hurry.

• Keep in mind that wiring money is like sending cash: The sender has no protection against loss! Don't wire money to strangers.

• Don't respond to a request for payment in gold bars or other precious metals.

• Don't pay up-front for a promise!

• Do not agree to deposit a check from someone you don't know and then wire money back, no matter how convincing their story!

• Avoid getting hurt financially and/or emotionally by a puppy

scam! Puppy scammers post fake dog litters online and pretend to be someone they are not. These scammers take advantage of people who are in high-emotion situations.

• In the wake of a natural disaster or another crisis, give to established charities rather than one that seems to have sprung up overnight. Pop-up charities probably don't have the infrastructure to get help to the affected areas or people. They could be collecting the money to finance illegal activity. Check out https://consumer.ftc.gov/ features/pass-it-on/charity-fraud to learn more.

For more information about investment fraud, visit cftc.gov

If you believe you are a victim of Identity Theft call: Suffolk County Police Department 631852-COPS (2677), SCPD Financial Crimes Unit at 631-852-6821, or

visit suffolkpd.org. File a complaint with the federal trade commission at www.ftc.gov or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877382-4357); TTY 1-866-653-4621.

New Dance Studio Brings...

Continued from page 6

Cassandra credits her success to her experience, passion, and her tight-knit family, especially her mother, Louise. “My mom has been there since day one,” she said.

“From late-night costume prep to helping me get the studio ready, she’s my biggest supporter.” dad Matthew, brother Matt, and sister Jackie, have played a part, assisting with renovations, registrations, and recital planning, making Fearless a true family-powered project.

With deep community ties, a

championship-level background, and a bold new vision, Fearless Dance Company is set to become a vibrant part of Center Moriches.

For Cassandra Scala, it’s more than just a business—it’s the next step in a lifelong dance that started at age seven and shows no sign of slowing down.

“We move to inspire,” Cassandra says on her website at fearless-dance-company.com.

“Our mission is to empower young minds to chase their dreams by embracing their most authentic selves. We believe in living boldly with no fear and

no apologies. Through powerful movement, fearless expression, and a supportive community, we ignite passion, build confidence, and create dancers who lead with heart and hustle. Come as you are, and leave as something greater. Come be FEARLESS.”

Fearless Dance is now enrolling for summer and fall sessions, with classes for beginners through advanced dancers. “We’re building something beautiful here,” said Scala. “Fearless is about more than movement. It’s about facing challenges head-on, together.”

Inside the Heuermann Home: Peacock Doc Spotlights Family of (Alleged) Gilgo Killer

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

“Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer” rose to Netflix’s No. 1 in April on a similar thesis: the intersection of the curiously long Gilgo Beach murder investigation, and the culture of police corruption that caused many feet to drag.

From Executive Producer 50 Cent, “The Gilgo Beach Killer: House of Secrets” — now streaming on Peacock after premiering on Tuesday, June 10th—platforms both this saddening truth and the overwhelm of evidence past regimes had to sit on until they were given the go to take this case all the way home.

However, it adds one element that its predecessor did not: $1 million exclusive interviews with both Asa Ellerup and Victoria Heuermann— wife and daughter of Rex.

The lifelong Massapequa Park resident was originally arrested in July 2023 outside his Manhattan place of business, where he worked for decades as an architect while his dilapidated childhood home became his arrested developmental stomping grounds.

He was charged with the murder of three sex workers who disappeared on the job from 2007-2009; their mutilated bodies were discovered at their killer’s South Shore dumping site shortly thereafter from 2010-2011.

Nearly two years after the world finally put a face to the elusive name that long-held tabloid fame, Heuermann has been charged with four more murders—and investigators are actively racing to tie him to more.

Through his attorney, he of course swears his innocence. As does seemingly doting wife Asa, who despite their recent divorce, cannot wrap her mind around Rex being the monster who made a soundproof kill room out of their basement every time the family went on vacation.

“Do people really believe everything they hear?” she asked interviewers before providing interior tours of their search warrant-ransacked home, even fielding a brief but chilling phone call with Rex himself on air. Victoria, on the other hand, seemed far more open to the

prospect of one day accepting that the man she knew and will forever love as her father may have lived this dark and twisted double life; one wherein he repeatedly committed heinous crimes—kidnapping, rape, torture and cold-blooded murder— essentially in plain sight for quite some.

Having worked under Rex as a secretary for the better part of her 20s until his arrest, Victoria, her half-brother Matthew (Asa’s from a previous marriage), and Asa often convey a two-pronged sense: solemnness that all this has happened, but stubbornness nonetheless.

Almost admirably so, they won’t soon be bullied by the media and the world at large to move out of their home until they are damn well ready to do so on their own accord and of their own volition.

A title card upon the final installment’s conclusion confirmed Asa and the kids are indeed prepping to move down South; she will return for Rex’s trial.

Proclaimed best friend of Heuermann David Jimenez also tearfully spoke on the record about

how he finally came to believe the man he thought he knew had been capable of such devil-on-earth crimes. He described visiting him in prison and being taken aback by what he encountered.

According to Jimenez, Heuermann did not outright deny the killings when prompted as he assumed he would, and only ghostly hung his head frozen to withhold himself from crying.

This behavior was in stark contrast to the beginning of

the visit, where Heuermann allegedly exhibited brashness when declaring to Jimenez that no amount of ongoing searching of his Massapequa home would produce palpable evidence.

Jimenez also shared a frightening memory of a time when Heuermann drew a gun on him during a day at the range. An awkward sequence of sounds created by the retrieval of a gun off the ground had a shaken Heuermann convinced Jimenez had the drop on him.

Credit: Photos Courtesy of Peacock

Violent Rage, Meet Consequence: DA Tierney Announces 25 to Life for Mastic Murderer

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

As previously reported, James Brown, 45, of Mastic, was convicted last month by a jury of his peers of killing longtime friend, Umar Elquhir, also 45 and of Mastic, back in November of 2023.

“Violent rage has been met with severe consequence,” DA Tierney said after Brown was sentenced to “25 years to life” in prison on Monday, June 16th.

“A life sentence is the only appropriate sentence for a criminal with a prior violent conviction, who has once again used a gun and has now killed,” he added. “The public must be protected from such danger.”

Brown was previously convicted of Assault in the First Degree with a Deadly Weapon in 2012. He was sentenced to five years imprisonment for said crime.

His latest crime for which he will serve serious time—Murder in the Second Degree—transpired on the evening of Nov. 7th. According to video surveillance obtained from a smoke shop across the street from Brown’s home, he and Elquhir engaged in a physical altercation; the victim vacated the premises, only to return hours later.

Brown emerged from his home exclaiming, “You wanna die?” at

the sight of seeing Elquhir parked outside. He fired nine shots into Elquhir’s vehicle, with multiple shots striking the victim.

Elquhir exited his car and collapsed onto the ground, where he was found by police responders at approximately 9:27 p.m. He was rushed to Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue, where he was pronounced dead.

Brown claimed self-defense in

court, but the jury rejected this wholeheartedly.

In addition to convicting him of murder, the jury also convicted Brown on two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree—the same weapon Brown used to fatally wound an unarmed Elquhir.

Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins heard the trial.

Brown was represented by Jason Russo, Esq., who successfully walked his client back from the initial “40 years to life” requests.

Assistant District Attorney Eric S. Aboulafia of the Homicide Bureau ran point on the prosecution.

The investigation was conducted by Detective T. Michael Palumbo and retired Detective Brendan O’Hara of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Homicide Squad.

Islip Terrace Man Indicted for Fentanyl, Cocaine Possession Amidst Three Young Children

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Quon Williams, 39, of Islip Terrace, and girlfriend Keirsten Escobar were both charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney announced.

The former was foremostly indicted for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree. He possessed over eight ounces of fentanyl and cocaine, the investigation confirms.

on May 28th. Police reported that they could hear the breaking of glass from the home’s rear side as uniformed officers converged upon the premises.

Upon entry, Williams was found in his one-year-old’s bedroom—bleeding from his hand. By the looks of it, the child’s bedroom window had just been shattered.

ByRobertChartuk

Governor Kathy Hochul and the Democrat-led New York Legislature have sparked an uproar by allocating a staggering $4.3 billion in taxpayer dollars for illegal immigrant services, including a newly revealed $50 million legal defense fund earmarked for aliens fighting deportation by the Trump administration. GOP lawmakers and angry taxpayers are crying foul, calling the expenditures “outrageous” and a betrayal of New York citizens who pay among the highest taxes in the nation.

Hochul thrust the issue back in the spotlight by appearing with New York mayoral candidate Brad Lander, the city comptroller, who forced ICE agents to arrest him in a campaign stunt by impeding the arrest of a criminal alien. She had just returned from Washington, where she underwent blistering criticism from Rep. Elise Stefanik over her sanctuary policies and doing little to stop the wave of illegal immigrant crime sweeping across the state. “These horrific crimes are happening in your New York—a five-year-old girl raped, a woman burned alive—because of

Three counts on grounds of child endangerment issued the couple's ways stem from their having allegedly exposed their three small children—ages 10, 5, and 1—to said dangerous substances.

Suffolk County Police conducted a court-authorized search warrant at Williams and Escobar’s Islip Terrace residence

Soon thereafter, law enforcement detected a kilo press within the home. Herein laid the eight-plus ounces of illegal substances, “enough to kill approximately 113,410 people,” according to the DA’s office.

Continued on page 14

New Yorkers Furious as Democrats Allocate $4.3 Billion for Illegal Immigrants, $50 Million for Deportation Lawyers

your failed sanctuary state policies,” Stefanik scolded. “You are shielding illegals.”

“When is enough, enough?” wondered Senator Dean Murray. “As if the $1.6 billion last year for illegal immigrants wasn’t enough, now they’re spending over $4 billion. New York is already the most expensive state in the nation, and this is a reason why. The taxpayers can no longer afford the Democrats.”

Murray explained that under current federal law, Medicaid and other healthcare services are not

required to cover undocumented immigrants. But New York, he points out, continues to defy that law. “The federal government says we are not to use tax dollars to provide health coverage to illegal immigrants. But the Democrats say, ‘No, no, that’s not good enough.’”

With federal authorities now declining to reimburse the state, Murray warned that counties may soon be forced to absorb the costs. “Don’t be surprised if they turn around and try to make the counties pay for it. This is a mess.” Estimates suggest future Medicaid

liabilities could exceed $1.2 billion, a figure Murray said would directly fall on already-strained New York taxpayers.

One resident’s furious comments, widely circulated on social media, captured the public mood:

“Just learned that our wretched governor has pledged $50 million to pay for lawyers for illegal immigrant matters. Where is she getting this money from? If this is coming from the pockets of New York taxpayers, she should be BLOCKED, IMMEDIATELY! There are plenty of citizens in this state, homeless veterans included, who need help here first. This is outrageous.”

“The Democrats are taking even more money from the hardworking citizens of New York to pay for housing, health care, education, transportation, and cell phones for the illegal immigrants they invited in,” noted Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano. “They’re doing it to tie these people to the government so they will vote for them. It’s sickening.”

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, previously

warned that the illegal immigrant crisis “will destroy New York City,” with an expected local taxpayer burden of $12 billion over several years. Adams has blamed both Hochul and President Biden for encouraging the influx of migrants without proper planning or funding. For that, he was targeted with criminal charges by the Biden Justice Department in a case dropped by Trump.

Meanwhile, the president’s deportation plan, part of the 2024 reelection platform that propelled him back into the White House, has sparked protests and riots in multiple cities. Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel are investigating who is financing the organized unrest since some of the rioters appear to be paid agitators.

Back in New York, many are questioning whether Democratic sanctuary policies and uncontrolled spending have pushed the state to a breaking point. “I wouldn’t want to be Governor Hochul heading into next year with this record,” DeStefano said. “She owns this crisis. And the citizens of New York won’t forget it.”

Hochul

Surveillance footage from Poospatuck Reservation's Tobacco and Herb Center (Bot-L) led to DA Tierney's (Top-L) swift prosecution of Brown (R).

Credit: SCDA & Leafly.com

Quon Williams

Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

Unclaimed Funds Could Be Yours

ByDeborahWilliams

The New York State

Comptrollers

office holds more than $20 billion in lost money. Every day New York State returns $2 million to those who file claims. Is any yours?

So far this year, the state has returned $304,073,19 to its rightful owners.

You can find out if there are unclaimed funds in your name at https://www.osc.ny.gov/ unclaimed-funds.

A few years ago, this writer checked the state unclaimed funds website after reading an article just like this and found $249 and change that was owed back to me. Not life-changing money, but it was my money and I was glad to have it back.

The state unclaimed funds site walks you through how to find potential funds for your self, on behalf of another person, a

deceased person, and a business or organization. You can also report unclaimed funds.

It is relatively easy to check. You just enter your name and city and matches pop up on the screen. If it is you, the way to verify yourself and start the process of retrieving your funds is explained.

You can submit a claim online or through the mail. There is a list of required documents to prove who you are and that the funds are yours. If you can't provide proof or you don’t have the requested documents, you can submit an explanation in writing. For example, you don’t have proof of address because you never lived there or it’s been too long since you moved.

Once your claim is verified, the site has a spot for you to submit your claim number and check on the status of your refund through the unclaimed funds website.

After you've submitted your

documents, the state will let you know if they need more information. Please don't pay for documentation or services until they notify you that you're entitled to the claim.

And, when you get your check, please cash it as soon as possible. You have until December 31 of the following calendar year to cash it. You might also be owed funds

from another state where you might have lived. Check their unclaimed funds website. There is also a national database where you can check: https://unclaimed.org.

Suffolk County Water Authority...

Continued from page 4

As Suffolk’s population surged, so did concerns about groundwater contamination.

A 1957 SCWA plan warned of threats from detergents and industrial pollutants, advocating for strict development controls to preserve the aquifer. The authority responded by expanding public water access, offering free water main extensions in densely populated areas, and supporting the creation of local water districts. In 1960, SCWA opened its Oakdale headquarters, followed by a production control center in Bay Shore, enhancing its operational capacity.

By the 1970s, SCWA served over 700,000 residents, acquiring 22 municipal and private water companies. Its water quality testing laboratory, equipped with absorption spectrophotometers and other advanced tools, monitored the aquifer for emerging contaminants. In the 1980s, SCWA pioneered treatment technologies to remove organic chemicals, including air stripping and granular activated carbon (GAC) filters. These innovations positioned the

provider as a leader in addressing new water quality regulations.

Under Chairman LoGrande, who served from the 1980s to the early 2000s, SCWA shifted its focus to land preservation to protect the aquifer. The authority played a key role in the 1993 Long Island Pine Barrens Protection Act, safeguarding over 106,000 acres of pristine woodlands. SCWA also computerized operations, improving efficiency, and opened a modern regional office in Hauppauge in 1993, housing a state-of-the-art laboratory.

In the 21st century, under the leadership of Chairman Charles Lefkowitz and CEO Jeff Szabo, the authority has solidified its status as a national leader. It has tackled emerging contaminants like PFOS/PFOA and 1,4-dioxane, becoming the first water supplier in New York to implement advanced oxidation process (AOP) systems for contaminant removal. Legal actions against polluters have yielded significant settlements, including $73.4 million for MTBE cleanup. SCWA’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its

adoption of compressed natural gas vehicles and initiatives such as the Long Island Commission for Aquifer Protection.

“SCWA is a truly world-class organization and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading drinking water providers,” Chairman Lefkowitz said.

“We are widely respected and admired across the industry for our innovation, efficiency, and solid fiscal management. Most importantly, we will always fulfill our mission to provide customers with the highest quality water.”

The agency’s Strategic Plan 2025 and its successor, Strategic Plan 2030, have guided SCWA’s evolution, emphasizing water quality, diversity, and infrastructure resilience. The SCWA Education Center and WaterTalk forums engage the public, fostering transparency and trust. With AAA bond ratings, cutting-edge technology, and a dedicated team, SCWA continues to ensure that Suffolk’s residents have access to safe, highquality drinking water, honoring the vision of its founders while embracing the challenges of the future.

DOGE Report: Massive USAID Bribery Schemes Uncovered and Student Loan Fraud

ByDeborahWilliams

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) isn't missing a beat in uncovering waste, fraud, and abuse. DOGE's most recent successes on behalf of the tax payer include bribery schemes at USAID and student loan fraud.

Decades Long Bribery Scheme Uncovered in USAID

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the federal agency that Democrats howled over when the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) began investigating it almost immediately after President Trump was inaugurated, was found to be riddled with fraud. Democrats said that cutting funds to the agency would irreparably harm poor countries abroad.

“Corruption in government programs will not be tolerated. Watson (USAID official) abused his position of trust for personal gain while federal contractors engaged in a pay-to-play scheme,” said Acting

Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Sean Bottary of the USAID Office of Inspector General.

The U.S. Department of Justice said a contracting officer for USAID official and three corporate executives plead guilty for their roles in a decade-long bribery scheme involving at least 14 prime contracts worth over $550 million in U.S. taxpayer dollars. In addition, two men, both of whom contracted with USAID, have agreed to admit

criminal liability admitting to engaging in a conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official and securities fraud.

“The defendants sought to enrich themselves at the expense of American taxpayers through bribery and fraud,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their scheme violated the public trust by corrupting the federal government’s procurement process.

Anybody who cares about good and effective government should be concerned about the waste, fraud, and abuse in government agencies," including USAID

Identity Fraud in Department of Education Student Loan Fraud

The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) is launching massive anti-fraud initiatives across the country to eliminate identity theft and fraud in the federal student aid programs. The effort will protect taxpayers and significantly reduce the administrative burden on colleges and universities.

“Federal Student Aid (FSA) data indicates that the rate of fraud through stolen identities, particularly involving technologically advanced fraud rings, has reached a level that imperils the federal student assistance programs under Title IV of the Higher Education Act,” DOE said.

COVID-19 pandemic led many institutions to move classes online. At the same time, the Biden administration removed

verification safeguards and diverted resources from fraud prevention toward its illegal loan forgiveness efforts.

Recent Data from the California Community College System indicate that 34% of community college applications from the previous calendar year were fraudulent, resulting in millions lost in federal and state aid. Two weeks ago, the Board of Governors for the state community college system voted to require ID verification for all applicants across the state.

“When rampant fraud is taking aid away from eligible students, disrupting the operations of colleges, and ripping off taxpayers, we have a responsibility to act,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “Today’s actions will implement temporary changes to the current verification process to prevent identity theft fraud.”

Similar identity fraud has been experienced in many state systems. Just one example, The College of Southern Nevada wrote off $7.4 million in the Fall 2024 semester because of fraudulent enrollments.

Credit: ChatGPT

New York State Comptroller may be holding funds of yours.

Credit: Grok/Twitter

DOGE Report: Massive USAID Bribery Schemes Uncovered and Student Loan Fraud

ByRobertChartuk

$300 Billion Vanishing Act: Untracked Remittances Drain

U.S. Economy, Shift Tax Burden to

You see them everywhere: muniservice shops that wire money to other countries. Here’s the dirty little secret about how they drain hundreds of billions from the United States.

Each year, an estimated $300 billion leaves the U.S. economy in the form of remittances—money earned in the United States and sent abroad, often tax-free and untracked. According to newly uncovered IRS figures, this outflow is double the amount previously acknowledged by federal agencies and nearly five times the size of the country’s annual foreign aid budget.

“This is a silent financial hemorrhage that most Americans know nothing about,” reported Troy Smith of Slingshot News during an interview on the "Stone Zone" podcast. “We’ve discovered that only about $150 billion is tracked by the IRS, and even then, the oversight is minimal. The other $150 billion is essentially off the books. That’s a crisis hiding in plain sight.”

Remittances—often small amounts sent by immigrants to family members overseas—may seem harmless. But collectively, they’ve become a massive transfer of wealth that evades taxation entirely, despite being earned on American soil.

“This isn’t just someone sending $100 to an uncle in Guatemala,” Smith said. “We’re talking about an entire underground foreign aid program, created not by Congress, but by the U.S. economy—and it’s being siphoned out without a dime in taxes.”

By comparison, the United States officially allocates about $65 billion in foreign aid each year. But Mexico alone received nearly $67 billion in remittances in 2023, largely from the U.S., which now accounts for

4–5% of Mexico’s entire GDP.

“It’s stunning. These countries are building parts of their economy off American labor—and American silence,” Smith said.

At the heart of the problem is the 0% tax rate on remittances. Unlike domestic income, which is taxed at rates that often exceed 30% for the average American, money wired abroad slips through the system untouched. Smith and his team say the situation has gone unchecked for too long.

“We’re not talking about a gray area here. This is black and white,” Smith said. “The IRS barely audits these transfers. There’s no consistent tracking. The money disappears into the global ether.”

Worse still, an estimated $10 billion to $20 billion of these transfers end up in offshore tax havens such as Switzerland and the Cayman Islands, indicating that wealthy individuals are also leveraging the loophole to skirt U.S. tax laws.

“This isn’t just an immigration issue. It’s a corruption issue. It’s an elite issue,” Smith said. “It’s a system that punishes working Americans while giving a free pass to those with access and influence.”

Islip Terrace Man

Indicted

for Fentanyl...

Continued from page 12

A kilo press is an instrument popular within the drug distribution underworld that is designed to mold large quantities of powdered narcotics into the socalled “brick” shape.

Police also found a kilogram of cocaine inside William’s bedroom; his fingerprints were allegedly recovered from the bag that contained the cocaine.

$14,000 in cash, drug paraphernalia such as scales and packaging, and hypodermic needles were also discovered during the warrant execution.

“These allegations highlight a deeply troubling situation where substantial quantities of deadly narcotics were allegedly found

in a home where three young children lived,” said DA Tierney. “We will continue working with law enforcement to investigate these allegations thoroughly while ensuring the safety and welfare of the children involved.”

Williams was formally arraigned before Acting County Court Judge James McDonaugh on Monday, June 16th.

McDonaugh ordered Williams held on $1,000,000 cash, $2,000,000 bond or $10,000,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case.

Williams is due back in court on July 15th, while Escobar will appear before Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei on June 24th.

Beyond economics, Smith warned that unchecked remittances can also become a vehicle for financing criminal or terrorist activity. “There’s no paper trail for half this money. If you wanted to

American Families

move funds for cartel operations, terrorism, or hostile foreign entities, this is how you’d do it,” he said. “You’d use a broken system that nobody in Washington has the courage to fix.”

Smith pointed to past efforts by President Trump’s administration to implement a 5% tax on remittances, which was later watered down by Senate Republicans to 3.5% in the pending “Big, Beautiful Bill.”

“Even that modest proposal is now on life support,” Smith said. “There’s serious speculation that establishment Republicans, many of them multi-millionaires, will strike the tax entirely. These are the same people who balk at raising taxes on corporations but have no problem taxing working Americans.”

Smith suggested that remittance taxation could become a critical component of immigration policy,

Trump’s Strike on Iran...

Continued from page 2

But not on President Trump’s watch.

The Iranian regime has spent years believing that the West is weak. And frankly, under Democrat leadership, they weren’t wrong. Obama bowed. Biden begged. Kerry whispered in back channels. And all the while, Iran laughed in our face and plotted behind our backs. But the days of appeasement are over. We now have a president who doesn’t just talk about red lines—he enforces them.

Some Americans, especially those still haunted by the mistakes of Iraq and Afghanistan, are understandably wary of military action. I hear you. I served in Congress during the aftermath of the failed and deadly Afghanistan withdrawal chaos. We all want peace. We all want stability. But let me tell you something as someone who understands geopolitics, security, and American power— you do not get peace by projecting weakness. You get peace by showing strength.

That’s what President Trump did on June 22. And that’s why Iran is scrambling right now, trying to clean up the rubble and figure out what hit them.

I want to speak directly now to the people who’ve been misled by the media spin machine, who think this strike was somehow a bad thing:

You cannot coexist with a regime that seeks your destruction. You cannot negotiate with a government whose founding charter is based on the exportation of jihad. And you cannot allow nuclear weapons in the hands of madmen who openly call for genocide.

It’s not just Israel at risk. It’s not

arguing that reducing the financial incentive would reduce the flow of illegal migration.

“You wouldn’t need mass deportations,” he said. “You’d just need to remove the prize at the end of the tunnel—tax the remittances. The magnet disappears.”

While the average American pays more than 33% of their income in taxes, those sending billions abroad are paying nothing, and foreign economies are booming off U.S. labor. With an estimated $150 billion vanishing from IRS oversight annually, calls for reform are growing louder.

“If we don’t act,” Smith warned, “we’re choosing to bankrupt our own economy, fund foreign governments, and shift the tax burden to the very people trying to build a life here—the American taxpayer.”

just the Gulf nations. It’s our own U.S. troops stationed across the region. It’s our embassies. It’s our homeland. Iran has proven time and again that they are willing to sponsor terror on American soil, from assassination plots on President Trump to cyberattacks on our infrastructure. Imagine what they’d do if they had a nuclear umbrella to hide behind.

Let’s be brutally honest: Iran’s nuclear program is an existential threat to the American-led world order. If they succeed, we will see a nuclear arms race unlike anything since the Cold War. Saudi Arabia has already said they’ll match Iran. Egypt is considering the same. You think that makes the world safer?

The only reason Iran hasn’t already crossed the nuclear threshold is because of one man: President Donald J. Trump. His resolve. His clarity. His America First foreign policy.

He doesn’t send apologies to terrorists—he sends them consequences.

And let’s talk about consequences. Since the strike, Iran’s economy—which was already on life support due to Trump 1.0-era sanctions—has gone into full-blown panic mode. International investors are pulling out. Revolutionary Guard commanders are reportedly in hiding. And pro-democracy movements inside Iran are surging with hope. When America leads, the free world follows.

That is why the strike wasn’t just a military success—it was a geopolitical victory. It reasserted U.S. dominance. It strengthened our alliances. And it forced every dictator and despot from Moscow to Pyongyang to take notice: America is back, and Trump

means business.

Of course, you won’t hear that on MSNBC. You won’t read it in the New York Times. The same people who cried “World War III” when Trump took out Soleimani are now pretending this strike was unnecessary. But behind closed doors, even our European allies are breathing a sigh of relief. They may not admit it in public, but they know—we need Trump’s strength to keep the world stable.

Let me say this: We are at a defining moment in history. The enemies of freedom are watching, waiting, and probing for weakness. Under President Trump, they are finding none. The June 20 strike was a warning to Tehran and every nation that dreams of a world without America or Israel: We will not go quietly. We will not allow evil to flourish. We will not stand down.

We have a president who understands that peace comes through strength. Who puts America—and her allies—first. Who keeps his word, who backs his friends, and who acts when the world needs action most.

So to the Iranian regime, I say this: Don’t test us again.

To the American people: Be proud. Be vigilant. And never forget what true leadership looks like.

And to President Trump: Thank you. Thank you for standing strong when it mattered most. Thank you for putting America first. Thank you for reminding the world why we are the greatest force for good in history.

The world is safer today because of what happened on June 22, 2025.

And the best is yet to come.

Credit: Chat GPT

HISTORY LESSONS

BY RICHARD ACRITELLI

“We're the battling bastards of Bataan;

No mama, no papa, no Uncle Sam.

No aunts, no uncles, no cousins, no nieces,

No pills, no planes, no artillery pieces.

And nobody gives a damn.

Nobody gives a damn.”

When the Imperial government of Japan attacked the United States and its interests in the Pacific and in Asia on December 7th, 1941, this nation quickly faced a military calamity. General Douglas MacArthur commanded the “Jewel” of American military bases in the Philippines and like at Pearl Harbor, these forces were quickly assaulted. The above quote were the words of American soldiers who lacked the military resources and reinforcements to oppose the brutal tenacity of the Japanese to conquer the Philippines. Macarthur adhered to “War Plan Orange” established the defense of the Philippines through the carrying out of warfare on the largest island of Luzon. MacArthur later pushed for “War Plan Rainbow” to oppose the expected landing sites of the enemy and to use air power to greatly assault them.

Both plans were failures, as the Japanese with their shorter supply lines, air, land, and sea power, quickly overran American forces. There was the unrealistic held belief that MacArthur would have enough soldiers and resources to fight against the Japanese until reinforcements arrived from the United States. As all other American territories were attacked at the same time, there was no chance of the government sending enough supplies 7,000 miles away to deter the Japanese. At the start of the fighting, MacArthur had too many forces scattered in different directions against the mightier Japanese invasion. Although the Americans faced a severe defeat, for a time, they angered the Japanese through their sheer resistance to refuse to surrender.

During the earliest part of this conflict, MacArthur had new bombers and planes that were sent from the United States, but they were closely placed to each other and bombed from the air. Some of the American artillery guns were left over from World War I, and they were unable to hit the attacking Japanese aircraft. A key army leader who was fought in the Philippines was Jonathan “Skinny” Wainwright. This 1906 graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., in 1906, fought heavy World War I battle in the MeuseArgonne Offensive, conducted occupation duty, and later attended the War College and Command and General Staff School. He was a hard-drinking officer, was liked

by his men, and enjoyed leading the cavalry.

By December 22nd, the Japanese were in firm control of Luzon, and Macarthur ordered his forces back to Bataan. Working for General George C. Marshall as a war planner, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who served in the Philippines under Macarthur, believed that these islands were impossible to save. Wainwright and the other generals held out, continued to fight the Japanese, but many of his men either fought guerilla warfare or fled to the island fortress of Corregidor. The American soldiers were malnourished and sick from malaria, dengue fever, dysentery, beriberi, and contained few medical

American Surrender in the Philippines and the Japanese Military Conduct

stated, “I have done all that could have been done to hold Bataan, but starved men without air and with inadequate field artillery support cannot endure the terrific aerial and artillery bombardment that my troops were subjected to.” Even as Wainwright initiated surrender, the Japanese refused to halt its incessant efforts to hit American positions.

There were 76,000 who laid down their arms that included 12,000 Americans that quickly endured the torment of their Japanese captors. The enemy despised the unwillingness of a quick surrender and their code of “Bushido” that stated the determination of soldiers to fanatically fight to the death. Wainwright tried to save his men

supplies to care for their wounded men. On March 11th, 1942, MacArthur was ordered to leave the Philippines by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and sent to Australia to rebuild the American war effort. Wainwright stayed behind and led the impossible situation of engaging the enemy and providing for his soldiers.

Reaching Australia, MacArthur was under the assumption that his men would either fight to the death or carry out guerrilla operations. While the Japanese did not earn an easy surrender, the American military was in a hopeless situation through the deterioration of the fighting conditions. Constantly under attack, Americans faced starvation conditions, consumed grubs and bark of the trees. Wainwright surrendered the largest number of troops in American military history, and he

they endured the extreme heat, lack of food, water, and continued beatings. Like at Nanking, the Japanese refused to adhere to any type of rules conducting warfare and the Americans paid a heavy price.

With thousands of American and Filipino soldiers marched under the authority of the Japanese, there was no resemblance of discipline amongst their army. An American soldier had Japanese money taken from him and his head cut off. When officers tried to aid soldiers that fell on the ground, they were bayoneted to death. Officers who displayed West Point rings had their fingers chopped off and this “prized” jewelry was taken by the Japanese. At one point, almost 300 American soldiers were tied together and led down a ravine. A Japanese officer who was educated in the United States and trained at the infantry school at Fort Benning, Georgia, gave a speech to the American prisoners. He blamed this enemy for not surrendering and creating additional Japanese military casualties and ordered the massacre of these men. American soldiers who survived this march had the vivid memory of seeing the decapitation of their comrades’ heads that littered this march.

under awful conditions, but these Americans who were ordered to put down their weapons were deemed “worthless” by the Japanese. This unconditional surrender that was forced upon Wainwright did not consider the needs of American soldiers who suffered from sickness, weakness, and a lack of medical attention and food. The Japanese took more prisoners than expected and they refused endorse any humane care toward their opposition.

The Japanese command estimated that these prisoners could march up to 100 miles to the different camp locations. At once, all soldiers and officers were beaten, humiliated, and had possessions like eyeglasses, pens, cigarettes, watches, and personal items stolen from them. Like the soldiers, most of the generals and colonels were forced to walk with their men, and

Attacked from all directions, enemy soldiers who were not in combat saw an opportunity to use their weapons to kill a defenseless American. Under no form of reasoning, Americans who stopped for water were stabbed and if it was believed they had water stains on their uniform, they were later killed. Some of the Japanese interpreters were educated in America and they understood the backgrounds of these soldiers. They openly mocked prisoners that they would never return to their lives in the states.

Americans quickly understood that if they fell back, they would be killed, and they started using belts to hang onto each other to keep pace. They tried to remain within the ranks, where the Japanese could not assault them, and if a hat was lost, this was certain death from the extreme heat of the sun.

Some Japanese soldiers allowed the Americans to jump into filthy water where the carabao rested and laughed at them as they became delirious from the thirst, heat, and torment. And the Japanese rotated fresh soldiers into the columns to purposely push a quicker pace to cause additional deaths at their hands. It was estimated that the “Bataan Death March,” killed Filipino and American soldiers at almost every ten to fifteen paces.

Later the Japanese commander Homma stated that he had no knowledge of the poor conditions of the American soldiers. He refused to admit the conduct of his army to constantly carry out these atrocities against an enemy that suffered from malaria, starvation, and thirst. Even as Lieutenant General Masaharu Homma earlier ordered air dropping of pamphlets informing American soldiers that his command was aware that they were fighting on half rations, they still brutalized weakened soldiers. In Washington D.C., Roosevelt ordered Marshall to initiate early military campaigns in the European and Pacific Theaters of Operation, but this was a slow process for the American prisoners of war who were tortured for the next two-anda-half years.

Americans faced an enemy culture that allowed Japanese senior officers to strike their own junior men. Senior-ranking men who participated in massive killings in Nanking, Singapore, and now in the Philippines were sent to Homma under the disguise of the emperor that all prisoners should be killed. From the Guadalcanal to Okinawa “Island Hopping” campaign, American military personnel were constantly informed at all costs instructed to fight to the death and to wage guerilla warfare. Pictures circulated amongst the Allied soldiers of the Japanese officers decapitating the Australian prisoner of war. The horrors of the “Bataan Death March” proved that this war would be long, costly, and it would have to be brought directly back to the Japanese home islands to assure a total victory against this vicious enemy.

Credit: Rosemarie Mosteller | Dreamstime.com

Credit: Dndavis | Dreamstime.com

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

While power of attorney (POA) forms are widely available online at little to no cost, do-it-yourself options can end up costing you thousands if they are not done right. If done improperly, institutions will refuse to honor them and no one will be empowered to handle your financial affairs if you lose your capacity. This can cost time and money if bills are late and accumulate or if you end up the subject of a guardianship. Guardianship proceedings are expensive and infringe upon your privacy. Well-executed POAs can keep you out of court.

POAs can empower a person of your choosing to access money from your accounts to pay bills, manage retirement and investment accounts, transfer assets for Medicaid eligibility, and the list goes on.

Attorneys who specialize in estate planning and Medicaid can determine what specific powers your agents should have if you

Why You Should Hire an Attorney for Your Power of Attorney

become incapacitated or immobile.

While there is a standard power of attorney form that is created by New York State law, the document allows for certain modification to allow your agent to take additional actions on your behalf, this is where the estate planning and elder law expertise can be crucial.

The powerful nature of this document often deters people from executing a POA for fear that the agent will misuse or mismanage assets. Once you and your agent sign the document in front of a notary, your agent is authorized to

1976

act on your behalf with respect to the items granted in the document.

If you are nervous about providing this power to someone else, you can wait to have the agent sign it until you are incapacitated or immobile.

As long as the agent is aware of the location of the originals, they can

retrieve it in this time of need.

Because we cannot predict when you will need assistance or how extensive that assistance will be, it is imperative to choose someone you trust unconditionally to act in your best interest in any circumstance. Your health, lifestyle, and age are factors to consider and incorporate into your estate planning. Proper estate planning contemplates your needs now, if you have diminished physical or mental capacity, and the needs of your loved ones after death.

Just like a will or trust, a power of attorney requires competent legal advice to make sure you get it right!

Britt Burner, Esq. is the Managing Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Erin Cullen is a graduate of the Maurice A. Dean School of Law at Hofstra University. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.

Floyd Parkway, Shirley, NY 11967

Phone: (631) 281-0800 Fax: (631) 281-6435 RomaFuneralHome@yahoo.com www.romafuneralhome.com

$5 Parking Passes for Suffolk County Parks

Starting June 4, onetime use $5 parking passes will be available at MMSCL's main branch at 407 William Floyd Parkway in Shirley.

These passes are good from time of purchase through September 30, 2025. This is a onetime use parking permit. To use this parking permit, you must present it to the park attendant at the tollbooth when you enter the park.

Parking Permits may be redeemed at the following locations:

Non-Lifeguarded/ Inland Parks

• Blydenburgh County Park Veterans Memorial Hwy, Smithtown, New York 11788

• Cathedral Pines County Park YaphankMiddle Island Rd., Middle Island, NY 11953

• Cedar Point County Park 5 Cedar Point Rd, East Hampton, NY 11937

• Indian Island County Park Cross River Drive (Route 105), Riverhead, NY 11901

• Lake Ronkonkoma County Park 600 Lake Shore Road, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779

• Montauk County Park

527 E Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

• Shinnecock East County Park Meadow Ln, Southampton, NY 11968

• Southaven County Park 761 Victory Ave, Yaphank, NY 11980

Lifeguarded Beaches/ Parks

• Cupsogue County Park 975 Dune Road, West Hampton, NY 11978

• Meschutt County Park Canal Road & Old North Hwy, Hampton Bays, NY 11946

• Smith Point County Park 1 William Floyd Pkwy, Shirley, NY 11967

Onepassperpatronper day.Norefunds.

Credit: Sirinarth Mekvorawuth | Dreamstime.com

Adult Children’s

Summer Reading Kickoff

Thursday, June 26, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Held at All Locations.

Sign up for our eight-week summer reading program for a chance to earn a prize! Read a book within the genre of the week and attend our Summer With Us programs to earn additional entry tickets. A winning ticket will be pulled each Friday. Free gifts and ice cream are available with sign-up while supplies last.

Teens

School’s Out Celebration

Thursday, June 26, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Held at All Locations.

Drop-in to get your Summer Reading booklet and starting prize! We will have activities and surprises at ALL LOCATIONS to celebrate the start of summer! Free ice cream for all (while supplies last)! Ages birth-entering Grade 6.

Teen Summer Reading Club 2025

June 26 – August 21

Join our Summer Reading Club and take on the Summer BINGO Challenge! Pick up a BINGO sheet, complete fun tasks, and check off your squares. Each BINGO you achieve earns you a raffle ticket for a chance to win cool prizes. Plus, complete a full “blackout BINGO” to be entered into a special prize drawing! Register and get your BINGO sheets at the Summer Reading Kickoff on Thursday, June 26th, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. (or anytime during the summer) at all three locations. Don’t miss out on the fun— reading, challenges, and prizes await!

Thursday, June 12, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Held at our Main Building. Registration begins 5/29.

Earn 2 hours of community service by preparing Summer Reading Club decorations for the Teen Department.

Color Our World - Summer Reading Club

Bookmark Competition

Design a themed bookmark and earn two hours of community service. The winning bookmark will be distributed throughout the library and the winner will receive a prize. Pick up an entry form at any branch. Entries must be returned to the Main building by Wednesday, June 25th at 9:00 p.m.

Friends of the Arts & Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics and Shirley presents:

The Summer Lawn Concert Series at the Moriches Branch

201 Montauk Highway, Moriches

Bring a chair, blanket, nonalcoholic refreshments and bug spray!

This concert series is made possible with a generous grant from the Suffolk County Film & Cultural Affairs thanks to local Legislator James Mazzarella of Shirley.

The Sitting Ducks Music Trio

Thursday, June 12, 7:00 p.m.

The Sitting Ducks Music Trio play a great mix of fun and relaxing music from the 1960s-90s including rock, pop, country, Americana and smooth jazz.

The John Fogarty Tribute Project

Thursday, July 10, 7:00 p.m.

SouthBound

Long Island

Thursday, June 26, 7:00 p.m.

SouthBound consistently delivers the kind of top-notch performance that makes crowds want to dance and sing along. Many non-country fans have even said, “I don’t like country, but I like SouthBound.” Enjoy listening to new and old country songs mixed with Southern and classic rock and originals.

Go down memory lane with the classic rock sounds of John Fogarty and Credence Clearwater Revival’s greatest hits. The JFT band has played Jones Beach Theater, Agawam Park in Southampton, many North Fork wineries, Napper Tandy’s, Tiki Joes. Now they’re right here with your favorites from the classic rock era.

Continuing All Summer..............................

The Day Trippers

Beatles Tribute

Thursday, July 17, 7:00 p.m.

Eagle River Band

Thursday, August 14, 7:00 p.m.

Chain Reaction Band

Thursday, July 31, 7:00 p.m.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DITECH FINANCIAL LLC, -againstMARLENE DIAZ, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on October 31, 2016, wherein DITECH FINANCIAL LLC is the Plaintiff and MARLENE DIAZ, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE

HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on July 2, 2025 at 12:30PM, the premises known as 731 OLD MEDFORD AVE, MEDFORD, NY 11763 and the following tax map identification 0200-837.0003.00-039.00.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 002170/2013. Michael T. Clancy, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

L16272 - 06/04/2025, 06/11/2025, 06/18/2025 & 06/25/2025

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR NEW CENTURY HOME EQUITY LOAN

TRUST 2005-2, Plaintiff AGAINST CHARLES

BROWN A/K/A CHARLES BROWN JR. A/K/A CHARLIE BROWN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 17, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on July 8, 2025 at 11:30 AM, premises known as 71 Matsunaye Drive, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Medford, in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District: 0200 Section: 774.00 Block: 05.00 Lot: 017.000. Approximate amount of judgment $590,729.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613506/2019. Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1250 New York, NY 10006 25-001131 85688

L16273 - 06/04/2025, 06/11/2025, 06/18/2025 & 06/25/2025

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR RMTP TRUST, SERIES 2021 COTTAGE-TT-V, Plaintiff, vs. JEFFREY A. NEVINS, JR., ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 21, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on July 15, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., premises known as 167 Avondale Drive, Centereach, NY 11720. 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 421.00, Block 06.00 and Lot 033.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $572,385.87 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603274/2023.

Richard A. Kaufman, Esq., Referee

Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 224133-1

L16277 - 06/11/2025, 06/18/2025, 06/25/2025 & 07/02/2025

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 Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on July 22, 2025 at 12:00PM, the premises known as 9 DREAMLAND STREET, MASTIC, NY 11950 and the following tax map identification 0200786.00-02.00-029.003.

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., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

L16282 - 06/18/2025, 06/25/2025, 07/02/2025, & 07/09/2025

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, -against-

ANTHONY CATANZARO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNA M. CATANZARO, 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 July 27, 2023, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and ANTHONY CATANZARO, AS HEIR

AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNA M. CATANZARO, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BROOKHAVEN TOWN HALL, 1 INDEPENDENCE HILL, FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738, on July 16, 2025 at 11:00AM, the premises known as 102 PEPPERIDGE LAKE ROAD, EASTPORT, NY 11941 and the following tax map identification 0200722.10-01.00-002.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT EASTPORT, TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 602533/2021 OR 202500075. Thomas McNally, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

L16283 - 06/18/2025, 06/25/2025, 07/02/2025, & 07/09/2025

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-25

Plaintiff, Against

James P. Walsh; Stephanie M. Walsh; John F. O'Neill, his successors or assigns, as Commissioner of Social

Services of Suffolk County, Social Services District; People of the State of New York; Peter Meyer; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; John T. Mather Memorial Hospital; Glenn Hesselbach and Debra Hesselbach; Jaime Correia as Executor of the Estate of Florence Van Brussel; Equable Ascent Financial, LLC; Penny Whyard; Capital One Bank USA, NA; Springleaf Home Equity, Inc. f/k/a American Gen. Home Equity, Inc.; Colonial Woods Condominium; Midland Funding LLC; Continued Care of LI, Inc.; Southside Hospital; Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC; Claire Gangi; Peconic Bay Medical Center; Autovest, L.L.C.; Clerk of the Suffolk County District Court; Clerk of the Suffolk County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency; Commissioners of the State Insurance Fund; Contemporary Dental Associates; Commissioner of Taxation and Finance; Internal Revenue Service; Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/16/2021, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 7/22/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 27 Pineway Ave, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, and described as follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

District 0200 Section 970.00 Block 02.00 Lot 012.000 and 013.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $469,411.27 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604429/2019

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee.

SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys

at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Dated: 5/2/2025 File Number: 35262 CA

L16284 - 06/18/2025, 06/25/2025, 07/02/2025, & 07/09/2025

Notice is hereby given that an On Premises(Bar/ Tavern)Full Liquor License, Application ID NA-0370-24146101 has been applied for by QEP LLC d/b/a Quogue East Pub serving beer, wine, cider and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a bar/tavern for the premises located at 530 Montauk Highway East Quogue NY 11942.

L16287 - 06/18/2025 & 06/25/2025

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. RONALD VOEGELE A/K/A RONALD E. VOEGELE, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 11, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on July 24, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., premises known as 121 Hagerman Avenue, 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 979.70, Block 05.00 and Lot 004.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $350,497.03 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615544/2022. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com [auction.com] or call (800) 280-2832.

Brian Egan, Esq., Referee

Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff

L16288 - 06/25/2025, 07/02/2025, 07/09/2025 & 07/16/2025

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO BANK N.A., AS TRUSTEE, FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006NC3 ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, AGAINST SOPHIA ANTONELLA 2009 LLC, et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on May 20, 2025.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on July 24, 2025 at 10:30 AM premises known as 65 Maple Lane, Medford, NY 11763.

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance

with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Suffolk County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at West Yaphank, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0200 Section 526, Block 3 and Lot 12.

Approximate amount of judgment $437,313.62 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #609423/2015.

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40

Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747

L16289 - 06/25/2025, 07/02/2025, 07/09/2025 & 07/16/2025

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 07/09/2025 at approx. 12PM at www. storagetreasures.com: Eric Sermon-1118, Christopher Ciresi-1166, Carlo Leoni-2193, Luis Alvarado-2223, Crystal Wilson-2256

L16290-06/25/2025

Auto Donations

GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1-888-251-3135.

Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, nocost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-484-3467 today!

Autos Wanted

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We buy 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-4033374

Health

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY

USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 888-514-3044

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS

USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

HEARING AIDS!! High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

Elder Care Offered

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THE ROTOMILLTM Fantasy Sports

My Fantasy Baseball Experience: Downfalls and Breakouts

ByJackThaler

Hi my name is Jack Thaler and I hope you enjoyed last week's edition of My Fantasy Baseball Experience. This week I will be focusing on teaching you how to treat unlikely and sudden breakouts and downfalls while also giving you my hitter and pitcher pickups of the week.

In baseball there are always going to be players who breakout and regress from season to season and in fantasy it is very important how you treat these types of players. For example this season players like Hunter Goodman, Javier Baez, Pete Crow Armstrong, and Andy Pages have had breakout seasons so far and players like Sandy Alcantara, Jose Berrios, Mark Vientos, and Willy Adames have shown regression so far. How I would try to handle a situation like this is I would try to hoard as many breakout players as possible and try to trade for players who have regressed. Right now we are about of the way through the season and there is still room for the players who have regressed to completely turn it around and for the breakouts to completely lose it. I think that people over-value players who have broken out and think too highly of them while not thinking about how some have not shown much former success.

Right now out of the four breakout players I listed I would trade Goodman and Pages because Baez has had success in the past and Pete Crow is still young and was a former top prospect. While Pages is still young he was never a top prospect and Goodman is playing in Coors which explains the power

outburst and he should slow down. I would trade for the two pitcher regression players in Berrios and Alcantara. Berrios was awesome in 2024 and I expect him to figure it out soon and as I said last week Alcantara is a former Cy Young winner and has been putting up good numbers in his last couple starts.

Now that I have talked about breakout and regressing players I will give my waiver pickups of the week.

Pitchers:

Jose Soriano

Justin Verlander

Emmet Sheehan

Jose Soriano is a young pitcher with electric stuff and he has been on fire to start the year, I always

thought Soriano could be an ace level pitcher and 2025 could be his year I would pay attention to Soriano on the wire and try to pick him up as soon as possible, there is no clear risk I can give except his health because he throws extremely hard for a starter. The reason I will give for you to pick up Justin Verlander is because he is Justin Verlander and even though he has gotten off to a rocky start I still believe he can turn it around, he is coming off the paternity list and has been injured but you should try to pick him up. Emmet Sheehan is

Spot Speed

ByTomBarton

It seems like in fantasy baseball we are always chasing steals. The old way of thinking was always chasing steals and saves, but the fantasy community as a whole has really zeroed in on saves to a point where anyone who is playing is keenly keeping an eye on closers.

The same cannot be said for steals. Since the bases have been altered and the rules now allow for a lot more stolen bases, it seems the fantasy community is still behind in terms of what is a solid steals number to move you up in the rankings. Finding that steal merchant can literally make or break your season and it leaves many owners asking themselves if investing a roster spot in a onecategory contributor is in fact worth it.

a young pitcher who has shown flashes of greatness on the hill and he was just called up and made his first start on the eighteenth going four innings giving up one run, he is a definite pickup.

Hitters:

Jurickson Profar(OF)

Cam Smith(3B)

Nick Kurtz(1B)

Jurickson Profar is coming off of his steroid suspension and is coming back soon. Even though he used steroids he had an incredible 2024

and I believe he can still perform close to that production level. Cam Smith is a young exciting player who has been on an incredible run lately and I believe he is extremely undervalued so if he is available in your league try to pick him up. Nick Kurtz is a former top prospect who has been a home run machine lately and I believe Kurtz is undervalued as well which makes him a must add for anyone's fantasy team.

I hope these waiver adds help you and I hope to see you next week for my third edition of My Fantasy Baseball Experience.

If you missed out on the big steals' guys like Oneil Cruz and PCA, or even the one-cat darlings like Jose Caballero, you could make up ground in a hurry in the category with some good in season moves. Now is the time to adjust your roster, and for many of you, you're thinking, and grab some speed. Most fantasy experts like to give you lists of who to go grab, only to find most are not on your waiver wire.

Continued on page 27

Jose Soriano

Credit: MLB.com

Credit: @MLB | X Sandy Alcantara

By Tom Barton

THE BETTOR ANGLE TM

BY TOM BARTON

This weekend Kevin Durant was sitting on a stage at Fanatics Fest in New York City when the host of the panel he was on informed him that he was just traded to the Houston Rockets. Durant seemed stunned by the move and had little to say other than "We will see what happens."

What happened following that news in the sport-betting space was a massive futures line adjustment. Just hours before a game seven in the NBA Finals was about to tip off sports books around the country had to quickly adjust their numbers, and it didn't involve either team that would be playing in Sunday night.

A linemaker told me: "KD still moves the needle for the public,

and that moves the number for us."

The Houston Rockets shot up the futures board moving the Rockets’ championship odds next season from +1200 to +700. That now makes them the second-best odds in the league to win it all. Regardless of the outcome of game seven the Thunder still led the field to come back and win the NBA Finals next season with 5-to-2 odds.

Durant joins a Rockets team that finished the season with a 52-30 record which earned them the #2 seed in the Western Conference. They lost to the Warriors in the first round of the playoffs. Durant now joins his fifth franchise after a solid season, but not the MVP levels that some are used to with KD. Durant averaged 27 points, six rebounds and four assists for Phoenix last season. The scoring is

certainly still there as the 18-year veteran has a career average of 27 points per game, sixth-best in NBA history.

In return the Suns will get Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in this week's draft and future picks.

The Cavaliers and the Knicks are tied for the third lowest odds at 9-to-1, followed by the Pacers at 10-to-1, the Lakers and Minnesota at 12-to-1, Boston and the Nuggets are 16-to-1, and the Spurs at 20-to1. Every other team, including the Suns have fallen back past 20-to-1 odd. Phoenix now sits as high as 50to-1 in some books.

Durant certainly still has star power, and he can still move that betting needle, or number in this case.

Are We in the New

ByTomBarton

Aaron Judge has been flirting with batting .400 all season long, he also is on pace to hit nearly 60 home runs again. Cal Raleigh became the first switch-hitter to ever hit 30 home runs before the halfway point in the season, and he has a chance to set the all-time home run mark for a catcher. Eugenio Suarez and Shohei Ohtani are on pace to hit 50 home runs and Kyle Schwarber is not far behind.

Looking at those numbers you would think we were in an offensive explosion season, but the fact is there are many in baseball calling this the new dead-ball era. The calls for concern are not only among the sports talk community or some conspiracy groups trying to start a stir.

In fact, current Pirates player Andrew McCutchen tweeted out: "I was told by a rep for MLB that the balls are indeed different this year. They stated "higher seems" which produces more drag on baseball, causing baseballs to not travel as far as they should. When asked why, I was told "every baseball is hand

sewn so no ball is the same."

New York Mets beat writer Ben Yoel had the same sentiment last week tweeting: "You can't convince me MLB isn't using dead balls."

The quiet speculation has turned into a deeper whisper, and I suspect will grow larger and louder as the season moves on. There is some data to back up the claims though, and this should not be dismissed.

Last week the Yankees had three hard-hit balls all three had the crowd standing and cheering, before the ball seemed to have died in mid-flight. Now, I know that fans in the stadium can be overzealous and cheer at routine fly balls, but these hard-hit shots fooled the announcers and even the outfielders as well. If you watched the replay and paid attention to the fielders, they all mis-tracked the balls they believed would travel much further.

This isn't just an isolated incident. Many outfielders have struggled this year with tracking fly balls, and they have expressed that the ball isn't carrying the same way it has.

Perhaps the best piece of evidence

KD Still Moves the Needle

Dead-Ball Era?

of the new "dead ball" came from Austin Wells. Wells hit a blast against the Red Sox that had an exit velocity of 106.1 mph. It also came with a 33-degree launch angle, and it didn't get out of the park. Now that sounds like technical jargon but let me simplify that for you. Austin Wells's ball only traveled 365 feet. That became the only ball ever hit in the stat cast era that had an exit velo over 100 mph with a launch angle that high that was not a home

run.

MLB recently addressed the issue and basically said there is nothing they can or will do about it for this season. McCutchen echoed this statement by adding, "When I asked if there is something that can be done about correcting the current performance of this year's baseball, I was told there was 'nothing' that can be done about it this season BUT, they are 'working hard on getting to the bottom of why the

seams are higher.'"

This isn't just about the ball traveling further or not, it starts to affect the players' stats, which in turn is their livelihood. Major League Baseball has seen a massive increase in viewership, and they have to do something to keep that momentum. This is another bad look for the sport and the players are starting to get vocal about it. It's time the commissioner steps in to solve the problem.

Jayden Stroman Wins Prestigious Honor

ByTomBarton

Jayden Stroman has won Suffolk County's 57th annual Carl Yastrzemski Award. The award recognizes the top player in Suffolk County. The Yastrzemski Award is presented by the Suffolk County Baseball Coaches Association and named for Carl Yastrzemski. The Red Sox great grew up in Bridgehampton before becoming a Hall of Famer.

Stroman was on hand for the 41st award back in 2008 when his brother, and now New York Yankee, Marcus won the award. There was always going to be pressure on Jayden after that, and he has lived up to the hype.

Stroman is a switch-hitter, that is more known for being on the mound than anything else. Stroman is on his third school and with that came even more expectations that he surpassed this season. As a pitcher he compiled a perfect 5-0 record with 50 strikeouts in just 20

innings. His tiny 0.70 ERA speaks to his dominance as much as the K's. His upside can be heard from the stands, even if you can't quite see the 98-mph heat. The pop of the catcher's mitt is all you need to know that Stroman is special. That special talent doesn't end on the mound though as he hit .456 with a 1.547 OPS. His five home runs were among Suffolk's best, and he also has speed stealing 24 bags and only being caught once. He is a true five-tool talent, and maybe six if we include pitching as an entirely other tool.

Yankees Celebrate an HR.

Credit: @Yankees | X

Credit: jaydenstroman_ | Instagram Jayden Stroman

is

Credit: Tom Barton

ByTomBarton

Sachem Students Are Golden

Earlier this week one of the best honors a student-athlete can receive was bestowed on senior studentathletes from Sachem East and Sachem North. They received the prestigious Gold Key Award by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) and Section XI.

Sachem described the award by saying, "The Gold Key Award is one of the most established and respected recognitions in Suffolk County athletics. It celebrates student-athletes who demonstrate outstanding dedication and

commitment to sports throughout their high school careers. To qualify, athletes must have participated and lettered in eight out of nine seasons during their sophomore through senior years, balancing athletic excellence with academic success."

Sachem East recipients were: Steven Azzara, Justin Black, Philip Cordero, Syed Dawood, Gianna Galeas, Alexa Garriti, Eva Lifschultz, Michael Lubniewski, Samantha Madigan, Reese Malfettone, Thomas Mann, Gianna Mauri, Kayleigh McKeown, Sarah Nagel, Shane Ocampo, Courtney O’Hagan, Blake Padormo, Norelis

Roa Moreno, Addison Romanowski, Sarafina Scavo, Arianna Schuman, Miranda Sherbitsky, Brianne Vanegas, Julianna Wottawa.

Sachem North recipients were:

ESM All-County Athletes Honored

ByTomBarton

During the most recent Eastport-South Manor Board of Education meeting, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Patrick Hayes honored this year's student-athletes.

Hayes touted the accomplishments of the district’s spring athletic season and introduced the season’s athletes who received All-County designations.

Those athletes who were able to secure All-County for Eastport-South Manor were:

•Justin Albanese – spring track

•Gavin Calvo – spring track

•Jaiden Campbell – spring track

•Colleen Carroll – girls spring track

•Sarah Cluff – girls lacrosse

•Alexandra DaEira-Loccisano – girls flag football

•Jaden Flood – spring track

•Madalena Hiotis – girls spring track

•Thomas Gargiulo – baseball

•Riley Gimpel – spring track

•Allyson Justesen – girls flag football

•Elaina Keller – softball –2024-2025 League V Pitcher

•Matt Keller – spring track

•Brady McGowan – baseball

•David Metz – spring track

•Jack Mikula – spring track

•Matteo Monter – spring track

•Katelynn Murtha – girls lacrosse

•Brooke Springsteen – softball – 2024-2025 League V Defensive Player

•Jenna Vormittag – girls flag football

•Logan Walsh – baseball

•Kendall Ward – softball

•Paul Zorn – spring track

The district put out a statement saying how proud they were of this year's athletes and all they accomplished with this great distinction.

Emily Belyansky, Craig Biazzo, Jenae Caldwell, Paolo Calvacca, Catalina Cedeno, Kevin Conrad, Lucas Cotsalas, Jordyn Cruz, Zach DeMilt, Ryan Durkin, Jason Faby,

Brody Ferrer, Ryan Friel, Angelina Gramarossa, Thomas Keegan, Ava Langella, Alyssa Leonardi, Marie Manolt, Jack McCarty, Ryan Medina, Yasmin Nday, Jessica Nodell, Abigail Perez, Jack Pitman, Angelo Portillo, Hannah Reuter, Laila Scafuri, Alexa Siegel, Isabella Skibola, Brayden Tappin, Patricia Camille Tomas, Nelson Villafane, Joseph Walker, Grace Zanfardino.

The district congratulated all honorees for their perseverance and achievement, exemplifying the spirit of student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom.

Zicchinelli Is Suffolk's Best

ByTomBarton

Miller Place Panthers starting pitcher Ava Zicchinelli has been named the Suffolk County Pitcher of the Year.

Zicchinelli had an outstanding season and led the Panthers to a New York State title over the weekend. Zicchinelli got them to the title game by throwing a gem that included 13 strikeouts in the Suffolk County Class A semifinals. Her no-hitter against Bayport-Blue Point was one of the highlights of her season.

Then she went on to shut out both Maine-Endwell and Williamsville South to secure the State Championship. While her

postseason accomplishments were spectacular her regular season heroics were just as impressive.

Zicchinelli finished the year with 25 wins and over 200 strikeouts. She piled up 10 shutouts this season and another six games she allowed just a single run. The dominance that she has shown has put her securely in the conversation for one of the best softball players on the Island, and certainly her legend will be etched into Suffolk County sports lore.

Zicchinelli now completes her five years at the varsity level and this award is another great piece to put on her mantle.

ESM Student-Athletes

Credit: Eastport-South Manor Central School District

ESM Student-Athletes

Credit: Eastport-South Manor Central School District

Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Ava Zicchinelli

Sachem East Award Winners

Credit: Sachem Schools | Facebook

SPORTS The Thunderbirds Are Costly

ByTomBarton

More and more Long Islanders feel the consequences of the state's leadership decisions on their town and recently Connetquot's school district felt just that.

The New York Post broke a story last week that the district estimates it will cost them nearly $23 million dollars to remove "Thunderbirds" as their mascot. The change comes from a New York State ban on the name and have forced schools to move to a less "controversial" name and mascot.

This ruling was part of the state’s ban on Native American logos and imagery. The Thunderbirds’ name

doesn’t use images that depict Native Americans heritage and culture, but the ban included them anyway.

A local Connetquot father told me: "When you walk into the school the signage of Thunderbirds is everywhere. We are all proud of the school and teams." Dan, as he asked to be called, went on to say: "It's pretty appalling that the state and Hochul make a decision that affects the community and then pushes the cost onto the district. If they wanted to make the change why isn't the state paying for it? This is not what we any of us want or voted for, but we get no choice in the matter."

Longwood Baseball Brings Home the Hardware

ByTomBarton

This year's League 1 champions the Longwood Lions baseball team were honored for their individual achievements.

The Lions finished the season with a 19-5 overall record and an impressive 16-2 record in their division. The Lions had four players rank inside the top 15 in Suffolk in home runs. Matt Faraone, Brayden Franco, Luke Rizzi and Brayden Plugues all ended up with two bombs apiece this season. Brendan Rivera finished in 11th place in Suffolk for wins as he recorded six wins on the hill while Brayden Plugues

was among the leaders in saves.

For their efforts Brendan Rivera and Brayden Plugues both received All-County honors. Luke Rizzi and Dan Blank both took home All-League awards with Blank also nabbing the nod for a Gold Glove as an outfielder.

Jagger Franco and Brayden Franco also were recognized with All-League, while Cameron Horn not only received an All-League honor but also took home the Courage Award.

Longwood Baseball said it was "a wonderful night. Congratulations to our award winners."

Connetquot's superintendent Joseph Centamore said, “The district has invested significant funds in larger-scale athletic costs at the high school and middle schools without the Thunderbirds name or imagery." He went on to estimate the cost will be over $23 million dollars to complete the changes.

The district is fighting this in court along with the other schools on the Island who were forced to make a change as well. Massapequa, Wantagh and Wyandanch all have been in court since 2023, but the cases were dismissed earlier this year. Another local resident believes "we still can win in court, at least they can push for the state to chip

in some money. Why do I have to pay for a change that I don't want to happen?" He also expressed that the students are saddened by

this because they feel like it will be a whole new school and a dying legacy.

Ward Melville Duo Impress at State Championships

ByTomBarton

Ward Melville High School had a good showing this past week at the New York State Championships.

Anthony Anatol finished 21st at the N.Y. State Track Championship and Jonathan Seyfert finished in fourth and fifth place respectfully in the 3200m and 1600m.

Anatol, a junior, was a part of the relay team this year at the New Balance Nationals for the distance medley relay and the 4x mile relay. Anatol held the team’s position and finished with a time of 17:51:90, making them 12th fastest in the country.

Stroman Enters...

Continued from page 25

Stroman will likely be drafted in this year's MLB draft, but he might choose to go to college where he has switched ACC schools. He was once a Duke commit and now it's the University of Virginia that has the honors of having his attention. Either school would be lucky to have him and that goes beyond

his pure athletics as Stroman is an exceptional student with a 4.0 GPA and recently won the Butch Dellecave Award which is given to Suffolk’s top scholar-athlete. Patchogue-Medford has now taken home the Yaz award in three of the last four years with Josh Knoth winning it in 2022 and 2023.

His teammate Seyfert was also a part of that winning team and was the final runner to complete the great performance. Seyfert finished 10th overall, and first among all Long Islanders in the 1,000 at last March's indoor state championships and this season and this year he topped even that. Seyfert became a state champion in March and was the only male from Long Island to win a state title. He ran the 1,600 meters in four minutes, 15.68 seconds which was good for the best time in New York State.

Three Village Athletics said of the duo: "Both Anthony and Jonathan represented Ward Melville with grit, determination, and class! We are proud of both of you!"

Spot Speed

Continued from page 24

Instead, I want you to look at steals like you find spot starters. Let's call it spot speed. Targeting weak teams and weak catchers can be a big advantage. The worst teams in the league have the worst catchers throwing out runners and that has continued for the majority of the season. The Marlins and Rockies are first and third respectively, in the league as far as other team's ability to steal bases off of them. Teams are running like crazy on their inexperienced or just not good

catchers behind the plate and that will continue.

If you see a slate of games where you can grab a waiver wire pickup for 3 or 4 games against the Rockies or Marlins, grab those speed merchants and enjoy the boost in steals. Over the next week the Rockies take on the Dodgers and Brewers. Dodgers players are likely rostered across the board, but you might be able to grab someone like Caleb Durbin from the Brewers. Durbin was renowned for his speed in the minors. Also keep an eye on a

player like Isaac Collins.

The Marlins are the big team to target, and if you can target Sandy Alcantara. He leads the majors in steals against him when he's on the bump. Miami takes on the Giants and Arizona this week. That presents plenty of spot speed starters like Tyler Fitzgerald, Tim Tawa and Alek Thomas.

This is out-of-the-box thinking that can boost your team up in the standings, go grab some spot speed.

Thunderbirds Gym

Credit: Connetquot Central School District

Credit: Longwood Baseball | Facebook Longwood Baseball Winners

Anatol and Seyfert

Anatol and Seyfert

Credit: Three Village Athletics | Facebook

Credit: Three Village Athletics | Facebook