The gauntlet has been thrown down hard by President Trump to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.
The 47th President needed to get creative to use the muscle of the federal government to stop a state based law like cashless bail, where certain violent, hard-core criminals are put back on the streets shortly after being accused of committing a crime.
Our Commander in Chief decided to use the “carrot and a stick approach” to stop New York’s disastrous cashless bail laws. This soft on crime law coddles criminals and allows certain violent offenders to receive a “get out of jail free card” and go free.
So President Trump is using the power of the almighty dollar to compel Kathy Hochul to stop cashless bail with an Executive Order that he signed in the Oval Office this week.
The President’s Order: if states like New York don’t eliminate
cashless bail, then we will stop the spigot of federal funds flowing to your states.
If you spring hard core criminals accused of serious crimes and keep them out of jail, the federal government will withhold federal funds from your state.
This strong political power play from President Trump should not be needed, but keep in mind we live in the People’s Republic of New York where the rights of criminals and illegal immigrants come first, and the needs of your family comes last.
So what is Governor Kathy Hochul going to do? It’s incredibly early in this epic battle between President Trump and his mission to end cashless bail against “blue states” like New York and California.
The decision should be a nobrainer for any reasonable, rational public servant. But then again, this is New York State we are talking about.
There’s no such thing as a
BY GEORGE SANTOS SANTOS
UNCENSORED
By now, most of you know that I’ve been living behind the walls of FCI Fairton for a month, thirty long days out of the nearly unbelievable 87-month sentence handed down to me by a federal judge in the Eastern District of New York. Let me tell you something: I thought I’d seen government dysfunction before, but never at this level. What I’ve witnessed here is not just inefficiency, it’s outright chaos, sometimes bordering on what I can only describe as criminal negligence.
Now, this is not some cashstrapped government agency struggling to keep the lights on. No, this is the Bureau of Prisons, one of the most well-funded agencies in our federal government. And how
moderate “Kennedy Democrat” anymore.
The statewide and national Democratic party got politically hijacked by Zohran “Commie” Mamdani, AOC, and Bernie Sanders.
I firmly believe there is zero chance Hochul will end cashless bail in New York State. She fears the wrath of The Squad and radical progressives and will not want to infuriate the same left wing liberals who voted for Mamdani in the Democratic primary for NYC Mayor.
It’s hard to believe I even had to type that sentence, since you would think the “leaders” we elected to office across New York would want to keep your family safe by keeping criminals behind bars.
Have I mentioned this is New York State we are talking about?
I have a sneaking suspicion how this is going to play out. Hochul will cop out and go to the courts for relief.
Big Battle Over Cashless Bail
“This” will wind up in court in a legal battle between the New York Governor and the President of the United States on whether or not the Commander in Chief can withhold federal funds because of laws passed at the state level.
Regardless of how Hochul decides to fight back, whether it be by doubling down on cashless bail and losing federal funds or filing
a lawsuit, at the end of the day, the safety of families will continue to suffer because of a misguided, soft on crime law.
Families will continue to suffer. Criminals will roam free. Streets will be less safe. All because state leaders bend the knee to the woke mob to placate the radical progressive wing of the Democratic Party.
Santos Behind Bars: If You Thought Congress Was Dysfunctional...
do I know that? Simple. I worked on their budget back when I served in Congress. I peeled back the layers, studied the appropriations, and saw firsthand the resources Congress pours into this agency. With all that money at their disposal, there is absolutely no excuse for what I see every day here at Fairton.
Picture this: black mold creeping across the ceiling, a commercial kitchen in visible decay, food well past its expiration date being served to inmates. And when I say expired, I’m talking about items so far gone they should have been tossed out years ago. I make it a personal mission to throw out anything I see before it reaches the food line and someone’s plate. That’s how absurd the situation is here at Fairton. This
isn’t an “oversight,” it’s a culture of neglect. And it leaves me asking:
What in the world is going on?
This place is the living,
breathing embodiment of the phrase “government dysfunction.” Nothing runs as it should. Systems break down daily. Logic doesn’t apply. You’re left scratching your head wondering who, if anyone, is steering the ship.
Now, to be fair, there are people here who try. If it weren’t for the rank-and-file correctional officers, the COs, this place would collapse. Most of them are decent, hardworking men and women doing their best with the limited resources extended to them by the Fairton administration. Sure, you’ve got a few bad apples, but the vast majority do their jobs with exceptionalism and professionalism. And for that, I am genuinely grateful.
Continued on page 12
Credit: The White House
President Trump Signs Executive Order
George Santos
Credit: George Santos
ByRobertChartuk
Huge Turnout for Suffolk GOP Event
It was standing room only at a packed fundraiser hosted by Suffolk GOP Chairman Jesse Garcia at Flowerfield in St. James. The impressive crowd was matched by a strong roster of elected officials in one of the strongest Republican counties in a state dominated by Democrats.
“For the first time in decades, Republicans hold the highest office in Suffolk County government, including a veto-proof majority in the legislature,” Garcia said, introducing County Executive Ed Romaine, Clerk Vince Puleo, and District Attorney Ray Tierney, who is leading the GOP ticket in this year’s election. Garcia framed the 2025 contests as a springboard to next year's races, where Rep. Elise Stefanik is expected to take on Kathy Hochul for governor.
“I may be from upstate, but we are all New Yorkers, and we must say goodbye to Kathy Hochul,” Stefanik told a cheering crowd. “She’s the worst governor in New York history, worse than Andrew Cuomo. Her policies are tax and spend, open borders, and wars on energy and law enforcement.”
Calling Hochul an “accidental governor” after taking over the seat when Cuomo left under a cloud of sexual harassment charges, Stefanik said she is “bending a knee to Commie Man Zohran Mamdani,” the Democrat candidate for New York mayor. “We need to stop them to save our state.”
“Elise Stefanik has heard our SOS—Save Our State, Save Our Suffolk,” Romaine said. “She could
“We are the most important county in the state,” said Tierney, who has waged a war with Hochul and the Democrat policies of cashless bail, defund the police, and weak drug laws. “We have a fabulous slate of candidates, and I am blessed to run with them. We will win and we will get back to work to make this county better.”
“We are at the tip of the spear to make sure Suffolk doesn’t end up
with leaders like Mamdani, Garcia stated. “We have a super majority in the legislature and we’re aiming for more, maybe 15 Republicans,” he said of the 18-member body that used to be controlled by Democrats under former County Executive Steven Bellone. “We will fight to make Suffolk safer and more affordable. We will take more seats in Congress and defend what we have. We will preserve our suburban way of life.”
Rep. Andrew Garbarino said he was honored to be chair of Homeland Security, a committee formed in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. “It’s important to have a New Yorker in that role. What scares me is what Mamdani, Hochul, and the Democrats are doing in support of
the illegal immigrants. We have thousands of terrorists in this country because of Joe Biden, and the Democrats are fighting us tooth and nail. As committee chairman, I promise to do whatever it takes to keep us safe.”
Also speaking at the event was state Senate GOP Leader Robert Ortt, who stood at the podium with the three Republican senators from Suffolk: Mario Materra, Dean Murray, and Anthony Palumbo.
“Together, we make a powerful team in fighting the destructive policies of the Democrats,” Ortt
said. “We stand for safer streets, lower taxes and fees, and no illegal immigration—the opposite of what the Democrats stand for.”
“The huge show of support both locally and from the state and national leadership is a testament to the power of the Suffolk GOP and its ability to win elections,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who noted how close Shirley resident and former state Senator and Congressman Lee Zeldin came to beating Hochul in 2022. “We will deliver big next year for the GOP in the state and federal elections.”
Suffolk County Legislature Recognizes Outstanding Teens
ByDeborahWilliams
Young people are achieving great things in Suffolk County. Twentythree teens were recently awarded medals for extraordinary efforts in volunteer service, personal development, exploration, and physical fitness.
A group of young Suffolk County residents were recognized for their efforts and achievements with the Suffolk County Legislature’s Distinguished Youth Award (DYA) at a Wednesday afternoon ceremony at the William H. Rogers Legislature Building.
The award, open to all Suffolk County residents between the ages of 13-18, focuses on four categories: volunteer service, personal development, exploration, and physical fitness. teens earned awards at the gold, silver, or bronze level, based on the level of achievement and scope of their goals.
“As an elected official, I find it not only refreshing, but motivating, when youth take an active interest
in bettering themselves and their community. In a time where we can feel surrounded by negativity–be it on the news, on social media, or elsewhere–it is such programs as our Distinguished Youth Awards that should be newsworthy,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey.
Several participants shared their thoughts. Siblings Noah and Blake Rabinowitz from Half Hollow High School East in Huntington both earned gold awards. Blake said, “It was a great program. I learned so much about our county, our county parks, and just the personal involvement and giving back to our community.” Her brother, Noah, agreed: “The program was very helpful. It helped me explore a lot about myself and a lot about my county.”
Gold awardee Amalie Specht from Harborfields High School in Greenlawn learned of the DYA program from her sister who participated last year. “I especially liked visiting the parks and
Credit: Suffolk County Legislature
Office Kevin J. McCaffrey (standing center) and Legislators (seated) joined the twenty-three young Suffolk residents from across the county who were recognized for their efforts and achievements in the Suffolk County Legislature’s Distinguished Youth Award (DYA).
exploring nature and the cooking I did.” Hailey Amato, from Longwood High School in Ridge, also earned gold. “My favorite part was all the libraries. I visited 26. And I visited all the parks. My favorite was Indian Island.” Afflicted herself, Hailey also volunteered many hours to raise over $4,000 to help battle rare chromosomal disorders.
Twenty-three students from eight different Legislative Districts
completed the program, earning fourteen gold, six silver, and three bronze awards.
The awards are (listed by Legislative district):
• Leg. Stark - Anthony Vona (Manorville) - Gold; Paige O’Shaughnessy (Wading River - Gold; Ryan Edward Storch (Manorville) - Bronze
• Leg. Englebright - Lucas
Sweeney (Port Jefferson) - Gold
• Leg. Lennon - Emma Pollack (Shoreham) - Silver; Hailey Amato (Ridge) - Gold
• Leg. Kennedy - Roja Valli Swami (Nesconset) - Gold
• Leg. McCaffrey - Sarah Persuad (Lindenhurst) - Gold
have been ambassador to the United Nations, but is staying here in New York to help us turn this state around.”
County Executive Ed Romaine and Suffolk Legislature Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey are flanked by supporters, including Legislator Nick Caracappa, right.
County Executive Ed Romaine addresses the crowd.
From left, Assemblymen Doug Smith and Joe DeStefano, County Legislator Dominick Thorne, and Brookhaven Councilman Mike Loguercio.
Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney
Credit: Robert Chartuk
Credit: Robert Chartuk
Credit: Robert Chartuk
Credit: Robert Chartuk
ByRobertChartuk
From Marsh to Shoreline, Officials Spotlight Peconic Estuary Recovery
The Peconic Estuary—a waterway of national significance and one of Long Island’s greatest natural treasures—supports a rich marine ecosystem, from oysters and bay scallops to eelgrass meadows and migrating waterfowl. It also helps sustain the East End’s economy, fueling commercial fishing, shellfish harvesting, and a thriving tourism industry. Yet decades of nitrogen pollution, habitat loss, and the collapse of the scallop population have put its future at risk, making restoration efforts more urgent than ever.
Two major initiatives in Riverhead—the Terrys Creek Restoration and the Living Shoreline at Indian Island County Park—are among the recently completed projects to restore the estuary’s resilience. To view the progress firsthand, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Congressman Nick LaLota, and Legislator Catherine Stark joined scientists and advocates aboard the Long Island Aquarium’s Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat on a trip guided by staff from the Peconic
Estuary Partnership, Stony Brook University, and the Citizens Campaign for the Environment.
“As a former legislator representing the East End, I am all too aware of the environmental degradation faced, whether in terms of water quality or the collapse of the bay scallop population,” said Romaine. “I am also acutely aware of the progress we’ve made in the preservation of habitat and improvements made to our bay to protect our keystone species: oysters, kelp, and shoreline grasses.”
The Terrys Creek project focused on restoring a tidal marsh that had been cut off from natural flushing. Crews reopened an old channel and installed a culvert beneath the park access road, reconnecting the creek to its wetlands. More than 65,000 native plants—low marsh Spartina alterniflora and high marsh Spartina patens—were planted to revive ecological functions such as nutrient filtering, tidal exchange, and organic cycling. The restored marsh improves water quality and creates habitat for fish, shellfish, and coastal birds.
At Indian Island Park, a 275-
acre preserve at the mouth of the Peconic River, erosion had been steadily eating away the coast. The new “Living Shoreline” uses natural features—rock sills, tidal plantings, and marsh grasses—to stabilize the land while also creating habitat. Unlike hardened seawalls, the soft shoreline design adapts to rising seas and storms, offering longterm protection for both wildlife and park visitors. The project also respected the site’s cultural significance, avoiding excavation that could disturb ancient Native American burial grounds.
“Protecting this estuary is not just about preserving wildlife—it’s about safeguarding our economy, our recreation, and the natural beauty that makes this region special,” said Legislator Stark. “These projects show how sciencebased restoration can make a real difference for our communities and our environment.”
The Peconic is one of only 28 national estuaries recognized under the federal Clean Water Act. Its wetlands and shorelines protect communities from flooding, while its bays and creeks provide habitat
for species that drive the East End’s shellfish and recreational fishing industries. However, excessive nitrogen from outdated septic systems, agricultural runoff, and stormwater threatens the estuary, leading to harmful algal blooms, fish kills, and the decline of onceabundant eelgrass beds.
The restoration projects are part of the Peconic Estuary Partnership’s Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, which identifies priority actions for water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and climate resilience. Suffolk County has also preserved
numerous properties adjacent to the estuary to protect surface waters and sensitive ecosystems.
By combining habitat restoration with water quality initiatives, environmental advocates say Long Island is beginning to turn the tide. “These efforts show what’s possible when science, government, and the community work together,” said Adrienne Esposito of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “The Peconic Estuary is irreplaceable, and every acre restored brings us closer to a healthier, more resilient future.”
Thorne Bill Targets Predatory Fire-Damage Contractors
ByRobertChartuk
Suffolk County residents who suffer the devastation of a fire may soon have new protections against predatory contractors looking to cash in on their misfortune.
Legislator Dominick Thorne has introduced a bill requiring boardup and fire-damage remediation companies to be licensed and bar them from soliciting work at active fire scenes. The legislation has bipartisan support and is scheduled to come before the County Legislature for a vote in September.
Thorne, a longtime first responder and chairman of the Legislature’s Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Medical Services Preparedness Committee, said the measure was prompted by troubling reports of unscrupulous companies descending on fire victims within minutes of a blaze.
“As a first responder, I know firsthand how important it is for
a reputable and licensed company to handle the work necessary after a fire has destroyed a home or a business,” Thorne said. “My colleagues in the legislature have thankfully joined me in pushing this legislation to ensure that people who are in their most vulnerable moments are not taken advantage of by an ambulance chaser looking to make a quick dollar.”
According to Thorne, unlicensed board-up crews often misrepresent themselves as being affiliated with the fire department and pressure distraught homeowners into signing contracts on the spot.
Weeks later, unsuspecting residents are hit with bills running into the thousands of dollars—charges that may have been covered under their insurance had proper procedures been followed.
“These folks are horrible people trying to make money off of someone’s misery,” Thorne said. “Not only are they deceiving
homeowners, but they’re also interfering with fire operations and even hampering arson investigations.”
The bill would create a 1,000foot buffer zone around active fire scenes, expand enforcement authority for fire marshals and police, and impose fines of up to
$5,000, with possible jail time for repeat offenders.
The legislation was crafted with input from the Suffolk County Fire Marshals Association and the Suffolk County Fire Chiefs Association, which urged lawmakers to act quickly to stop the growing problem.
County Executive Ed Romaine is expected to sign the bill once it clears the legislature.
“This law sends a clear message: in Suffolk County, we don’t prey on our neighbors when they’re at their lowest point,” Thorne said.
Safety and Scam Prevention Focus of Upcoming Pattersquash Creek Civic Meeting
ByRobertChartuk
The Pattersquash Creek Civic Association will hold its next meeting on September 2nd at the MMS Main Library on William Floyd Parkway. With a larger crowd expected, the meeting was moved to the library from the group’s usual location at the Mastic Beach Fire House, according to President Frank Fugarino, who encouraged all residents, non-civic members alike, to attend.
The meeting will focus on community safety, phone scams, and computer fraud, with presentations from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office and Battlegrounds, an organization dedicated to educating the public about digital threats.
Fugarino emphasized the
importance of community awareness and engagement, noting that the session will provide practical tips to protect residents and families
from scams. Attendees will also have the opportunity to discuss ongoing local issues and initiatives aimed at improving the
of
Officials and environmentalists at the Peconic Estuary.
Credit: Chat GPT
Credit: Suffolk County
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Paws of War Hosts Retirement for K9 Vet, Reunites Him with Original Handler
Headquartered in Nesconset, the Long Island-based nonprofit “Paws of War” held a heartwarming ceremony on August 22nd.
The retirement celebration for now-retired military working dog, Remco, brought the K9 back together with his first handler, Nick Martucci, a military Veteran turned police officer.
Paws of War facilitated a smooth transport of Remco from South Korea to the US, making this occasion possible.
This year marked five years of active service overseas for Remco, who was congratulated by a sea of Veterans, first-responders, Martucci’s family and general supporters of Paws of War and their greater mission at hand.
Elected officials such as Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy and Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy also turned out for Remco’s Smithtown Blvd-set retirement party.
They and fellow local representatives were joined by Marcel Leis (US Air Force Veteran), the Director of Suffolk County’s Veterans Service Agency, their current Deputy Director James Brennan (retired, USMC Colonel) and former Director Tom Ronayne (retired, US Navy).
Remco formed what the
organization reports was an “incredibly strong bond” with Martucci, helping his human handler to navigate the mental challenges of deployment.
The pair were reunited thanks to Paws of Wars’ “Mission: Well Done” program, which focuses on providing a dignified last detail for military working dogs.
“Paws” arranged for Martucci’s
flight to South Korea to retrieve Remco for his stateside commemoration.
"I never thought that this day would come; this means so much to me," said Martucci.
Remco helped me through dark times during deployment, and this is just one example of how dogs can play a part in assisting members of the military, veterans, and first responders who face challenges during and after service.”
Paws of War co-founder
Robert Misseri has seen many similar man and man’s best friend reunions orchestrated under his watch. "All military working dogs deserve to retire with dignity after years of service,” he said.
Adds Misseri: “This is a real story of dedication, commitment, and the incredible bond that people have with dogs…”
To make a donation or consider additional means of support for a local organization with quite the grand reach, visit www. pawsofwar.org.
Altice Shifts Brookhaven's Public Access Channel from 18 to 1310; Panico Protests
ByRobertChartuk
Residents looking to view Brookhaven Town Board meetings and other public service programming will have to move down the dial from the usual Channel 18–way down the dial.
The town’s provider, Altice USA Cable, formerly Cablevision, moved the local channel to 1310, causing a kerfuffle at town hall.
Altice claimed in an email inquiry that the changes to Brookhaven and all Suffolk town access channels were made because “These new channel
assignments will allow for easier customer navigation and a better user experience,” according to a statement from Supervisor Dan Panico.
“Why anyone would think the change would make it ‘easier or a better user experience’ is puzzling to us and will be protested at the upcoming Suffolk County Town Supervisors Association monthly meeting,” Panico said.
To view Town Board meetings, Zoning Board meetings, and “Supervisor Panico On The Air” along with “Brookhaven Today” segments, tune in to Channel 1310 until further notice, the
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Rob Misseri, Co-Founder Paws of War; Melinda Martucci; Gene Martucci (FDNY); Airforce Veteran Nick Martucci; Remco; Niki Dawson, Paws of War; Gary Bauman, CoFounder, Paws of War (l-r).
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LOCAL
ByDeborahWilliams
Long Island SCOPE Hosts Education Leaders
Long Island’s public school educational leaders attended SCOPE Education Services’ 40th Annual Dinner Meeting for school superintendents and newly elected board of education trustees.
This event is considered a valuable and informative networking opportunity for new and returning superintendents and board of education trustees. The dinner was held at the Bourne Mansion.
SCOPE provides a broad array of school district services, including before- and after-school childcare, prekindergarten and school enrichment programs, and professional development. Among the 124 school districts on Long Island, 121 school districts are SCOPE members.
During his introductory remarks, SCOPE Executive Director George Duffy introduced 36 newly installed school board members and six newly appointed superintendents and wished them well in their new
positions. In addition to stressing the importance of SCOPE’s programs and services in maintaining a quality of education on Long Island, Mr. Duffy encouraged educational leaders to make “kindness” a central theme of the 2025-2026 school year.
“Kindness is a strength, not a soft skill,” Mr. Duffy explained. “It builds safety, belonging and trust –the very foundation of learning and human development.”
Mr. Duffy honored the late Dr. Charles Rudiger, a former SCOPE board member from 1973-2011.
Dr. Rudiger was also a former Huntington School District superintendent and was responsible for setting up SCOPE’s retirement plan. Mr. Duffy presented Dr. Rudiger’s wife, Lucille Rudiger, and his daughter, Kristine Rudiger, with the Challenge Coin in commemoration of his contributions to the educational field and his commitment to excellence.
Robert Vecchio, executive
director of Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association, encouraged members to focus on students, as well as governance and finding consensus in an educational climate that is under attack. “Set shortterm and long-term goals and focus on the big picture,” Mr. Vecchio said. “Focus on your ‘why.’ Keep it focused on the kids, and commit yourselves to excellence and building consensus.”
New York State Council of School Superintendents Executive
Director Dr. Charles Dedrick noted that NYSCOSS and SCOPE are “compatible partners” in educating children in New York State. “Together, we work for the good of New York State students,” Dedrick said.
SCOPE Board of Directors
President Dr. Lorna R. Lewis was also applauded for her educational contributions. She asked the question, “What are you going to do to make moments in your districts precious moments?” She
Superintendent
Superintendent
also encouraged districts to focus on students and to move their agendas forward to prepare the Class of 2038, which begins kindergarten this year.
New York State Regent Felicia Thomas-Williams told attendees that “every student has a spark worth igniting.” She explained that
her mission is for every student, despite zip code, to receive the education they need to thrive and to provide an equitable, high-quality education for all students.
“Long Island can lead the way,” Thomas-Williams said. “We need to think about ways to collect, collaborate and innovate.”
Comptroller DiNapoli Honored by Italian American Organization
ByDeborahWilliams
New York State Comptroller
Thomas P. DiNapoli was selected for the Guglielmo Marconi Award, the highest award given by the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America.
Prior recipients of this award include a U.S. president, ambassadors, congress members, astronauts, actors and playwrights. He was presented this award at the organization’s 59th national convention.
“I am truly honored to receive the Guglielmo Marconi Award. I was raised by parents and immigrant grandparents who were deeply proud of being Italian Americans and
believed that success would be achieved through hard work and determination,” DiNapoli said. “Thanks to their love, support and teachings, I achieved my dream of a career in public service, culminating in being elected State Comptroller of New York. It is with great pride that I accept this high honor, and I know my parents and grandparents would be so very proud of this recognition.”
DiNapoli is the 54th comptroller of the State of New York, the first Italian-American to serve in this position in the state's history. He entered public service after being elected the first 18-year-old in New York to hold public office as a trustee
on the Mineola school board. He later served as a New York State assemblyman and has been state comptroller since 2007.
His mother's family immigrated from Sturno, Avellino Province and his father's family is from Paduli in the Benevento Province. He was named an honorary citizen of Paduli and cavaliere by the Italian Republic.
While in the state assembly, DiNapoli served a term as president of the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators. He been a member of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, Cellini Lodge #2206, since October 1983. He also edited a book entitled “The Italian Jewish Experience,” which examined the role of Italians who rescued Jews
during World War II and the history of the Jewish community on the Italian peninsula.
Since 1955, the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy, with more than 30,000 members and 150,000 family and friend affiliates, has presented the Guglielmo Marconi Award to an individual for his or her contributions to the nation and record of accomplishments.
New AP at Brookhaven Elementary! Introducing Mr.
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Center Moriches resident Gavin Rodgers joins South Country from the New York City school system, the school district announced this week.
“We are excited to welcome Gavin Rodgers to our district as the Brookhaven Elementary School assistant principal,” said Superintendent of Schools Antonio Santana.
“His background in education and commitment to student learning make him a perfect fit for our district.”
Rodgers previously served as the dean of students at Robert F. Wagner Middle School in Manhattan and assistant principal of P.S. 54 in Queens. He is excited to take on the privilege and challenge of migrating from metropolis to suburbia.
“I look forward to supporting
Gavin Rodgers
The
the school’s continued success and building on the strong foundation laid by Principal Raymond,” he said.
South Country School District’s newest administrator holds mathematics education degrees from Suffolk County Community College, Stony Brook University and Columbia University. He also
Credit: scccalumni.wordpress.com
earned an additional master’s in progressive leadership from Bank Street College of Education’s LEAP Program.
Adds Rodgers: “My professional passion is early elementary mathematics, and I can't wait to share that enthusiasm with our students and staff."
DiNapoli wins high honor in Italian Community.
Credit: Comptroller DiNapoli Office
South Country School District Board of Education has appointed Gavin Rodgers as the new assistant principal of Brookhaven Elementary School.
Board VP Dr. Kenneth Bossert, Board President Dr. Lorna R. Lewis, NYS Sen. Siela Bynoe, SCOPE Exec. Dir. George Duffy, NYS Regent Thomas-Williams, Bayport-Blue Point
Dr. Timothy Hearney, Bellmore Schools
Dr. Joseph Famularo
Credit: SCOPE Education Services
ByRobertChartuk
Local Artist Takes Yard Sale Signs to a New Level
Yard sale signs have always been a staple of summer weekends, but East Moriches resident Joseph Henderson has turned them into an art form. Known for his bold, colorful cartoon characters and retro 1960s–70s style, Henderson’s signs rivet attention with clowns
declaring, “I’m talking to you!” and superheroes promising “Super Sale!”
A lifelong musician and guitar teacher, Henderson has played since he was 10. He leads the music department at Amityville’s Azuzza Street Ministries, where he is affectionately known as Pastor Joe Henderson. His performances aren’t limited to the stage — he sings
at funerals to comfort grieving families, performs at weddings, and works at the Center Moriches School District, sharing his passion for music with everyone he can.
Henderson’s musical career took off from the famed Apollo Theater in Harlem, where he and his dad’s band, the Supreme Magistrates, tied for first place on Amateur Night, ultimately bested only by the house band. Over the years, he’s played with gospel groups, collaborated with local musician Carl Bruno, and traveled nationwide to perform with various bands.
His life has been as colorful as his signs. Born in Brooklyn, Henderson moved to East Moriches at age three, and his family still resides on the same block. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he enlisted right out of Eastport High School. He served in Korea from 1971 to 1973 as a field wireman in the 3rd and 81st Infantry Battalion during the Vietnam War, helping maintain communications for peacekeeping missions along the DMZ.
Now, Henderson combines his love for cartooning and community with a flair for marketing. His hand-painted yard sale signs,
featuring superheroes, clowns, and playful slogans, have become local icons. “Yard sale big like Hulk!” one sign boasts, perfectly capturing Henderson’s whimsical approach to both art and life.
For Henderson, every sale is a performance, every sign a stage, and every passerby a potential audience. His artistry, music, and dedication to his community make him a beloved figure in East Moriches—a local celebrity who proves that even the most mundane things, like a yard sale sign, can be extraordinary. Contact him at josephhenderson414@gmail.com.
Cops Helping Cops, Walmart Team up for Family Safety Event
ByRobertChartuk
Families came together at the Centereach Mall on Saturday for a day of safety, fun, and community support at the Cops Helping Cops Community Event, part of the “Walmart Gives Back” initiative.
The program brought together numerous first responders and agencies, including the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, Suffolk County Police units, Centereach Fire Department and Ambulance, State Police, and even an FBI mobile command center.
Attendees participated in interactive demonstrations such as Operation Safe Child ID cards, the State Police’s “Convincer” seat belt simulator, CPR training, and car seat safety checks. Teens also tested the “Drunk Buggy,” a hands-on simulator that
demonstrates the dangers of impaired driving.
Families enjoyed free food donated by Olive Garden, raffles sponsored by local businesses, bounce houses, and a video gaming trailer from Biz Gaming, while children explored first responder vehicles and met
police dogs, firefighters, and paramedics.
The day's highlight was the collaborative presence of Suffolk County’s Aviation Unit, Highway Patrol Camaro and Mustang, S.W.A.T., K-9, and Marine Units, offering the public a rare chance to see the full range of emergency
response capabilities in one place. Participants were awed by the landing of a county police helicopter.
Chris Lyons, founder of Cops Helping Cops, explained that the event was designed to give the community a closer look at the resources available to keep them
safe. “With National Night Out, you only ever see a fraction of what’s out there because agencies are scattered,” Lyons said. “Here, we brought everyone together — from the FBI straight on down — to show the community just how much these men and women do for them.”
Participants also enjoyed free samples of popular snacks and drinks, with tables full of favorites such as M&M’s, Snickers, Doritos, Lay’s, Pepsi, Red Bull, and many more. From sweet treats such as Twizzlers, Reese’s, and Kit Kat to refreshing beverages like AriZona Iced Tea, Monster Energy, and Liquid Death, there was something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.
The event, made possible with the support of Walmart and local partners, is expected to become an annual community tradition.
Credit: Robert Chartuk
Credit: Charles Clampett
East Moriches artist Joseph Henderson with one of his creative signs.
Credit: Joseph Henderson
LOCAL
ByAssemblymanJoseph DeStefano
Be a Local Hero: Consider Becoming a Volunteer Firefighter Today
Message from Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, a 45-year veteran with the Medford Fire Department
Volunteer firefighters embody the very best of what it means to be a good neighbor. These men and women selflessly dedicate countless hours to protecting our homes, businesses, and families. They do so not for recognition or reward, but because they believe in serving their community.
Unfortunately, volunteer fire departments across Long Island— and the nation—are struggling to recruit and retain members.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, the number of volunteer firefighters dropped 6% in 2020 alone, falling to one of the lowest levels on record. In New York, the decline
has been even sharper: we’ve lost nearly a third of our volunteer force over the last 30 years. This puts enormous strain on those who continue to serve and poses real risks to our communities.
It’s worth remembering that nearly all firefighting operations in New York rely on volunteers. In rural areas, they are the backbone of emergency response. Without them, our system would collapse. The alternative—replacing volunteers with paid staff—would not only be unsustainable, it would also lead to crushing property tax increases for homeowners.
That’s why the Republicans in the Assembly have introduced several bills to support volunteer firehouses and make service more attractive, including
• A.6414: Creates a $400 tax credit for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, exempts duty-related vehicles from certain
state taxes, and establishes loan forgiveness and other benefits.
• A.4414: Ensures volunteers can attend mandatory training without fear of employer penalties, while offering tax incentives to employers who hire them.
• A.1064: Provides a state income tax credit of up to $2,500 for volunteers with at least five
years of service.
• A.2068: Authorizes excused leave for civil service employees who are volunteer responders during declared emergencies.
A.3576: Redirects a portion of the state’s public safety communications surcharge to create the New York State Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary Fund.
SUNY Reconnect Off and Running in Suffolk County
Eligible high-demand fields include:
• Advanced manufacturing
ByDeborahWilliams
Governor Hochul announced more than 16,500 students have applied for New York's taxpayerfunded community college program covering full tuition for adult learners pursuing indemand fields.
Reconnect covers tuition, books, fees and supplies for adult New Yorkers ages 2555 expanding access to higher education and career mobility to millions of adult learners.
Mary M. Feder, Director, College Relations and Publications for Suffolk County Community College told South Shore Press that “As of August 21, 2025, the number of students enrolled at Suffolk who currently meet all eligibility requirements for the SUNY Reconnect program, currently totals 648.”
The idea behind SUNY Reconnect is to incentivize education and training in fields that have shortages in today’s
economy. Adults who are looking to change careers, maybe they were downsized from another job, or perhaps they are underemployed or just haven’t decided what they want to do yet have an affordable opportunity in Reconnect to get training for a career that will last a lifetime.
When asked if this is what SCCC expected for enrollment in the Reconnect program, Feder said, “It’s too new for us to have had any expectations. But, we are happy with the boost to our enrollment.”
“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers – we are proud to provide an opportunity for millions of CUNY and SUNY students to achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said. “I am committed to making education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program continues to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity Engineering
• Technology
These measures are essential to ease the financial and professional burdens that discourage people from volunteering. But legislation alone cannot solve the problem. At its heart, volunteer service is about values: compassion, responsibility, and commitment to the community.
That’s why I’m asking residents directly to please consider becoming a volunteer firefighter. Your neighbors need you, and your community needs you. There are few callings more rewarding than saving lives and standing ready to serve when emergencies strike.
Heroes don’t always wear capes. In our towns and villages, they wear turnout gear. If you’ve ever thought about giving back, now is the time. Join your local fire department and help keep this proud tradition alive.
• Nursing and allied health fields
• Green and renewable energy
• Pathways to Teaching in shortage areas
In order to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed, the program includes funding for SUNY and CUNY to support retention through wraparound supports such as academic advising and student success coaching, as well as funding to support marketing for effective outreach for the program.
Public Hearing on Beechwood Redevelopment in Mastic Beach Scheduled for August 28
ByRobertChartuk
The Town of Brookhaven will hold a public hearing on the proposed Beechwood redevelopment of the Neighborhood Road Business District on Thursday, August 28, at 5:30 p.m. at Brookhaven
Town Hall in Farmingville.
The Beechwood project, a 40-acre redevelopment of Mastic Beach’s Neighborhood Road business district, is planned to roll out in five phases beginning next year. The proposal includes a mix of residential and retail space
in buildings up to four stories high, a town square, and pedestrian-friendly walkways.
The August 28 hearing will provide residents with an opportunity to share their views on the redevelopment and learn more about the plan.
Volunteers training at the Suffolk facility in Yaphank.
Students can get a "free" education at SCCC for certain indemand fields.
Credit: Robert Chartuk
Credit: Suffolk County Community College
Downtown Mastic Beach as envisioned by the Beechwood Organization.
Credit: Beechwood Organization
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LOCAL
'Weapons' as School Shooting Text: Real Horror, Real Actors and Backloaded Witchcraft
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Granted, the key players of Zach Cregger's latest high-performing high-concept horror experience occasional night terrors wherein a surreal scenery has seemingly escaped the late David Lynch’s dream journal.
The latest from “The Whitest Kid U Know” with a Jordan Peele-grade, sketch comic come directorially alive second act, “Weapons” wields a profound unshakability that lies in its social commentary.
Witchhunts never went away, in our world and in one where “Ozark’s” Julia Garner plays an elementary school teacher whose entire class—save for one student— disappeared overnight.
A pulp-fictional structure is devoted to chapter-divided character studies before magnolian collisions, and eventually, an unveiled villain’s jump-scare emergence from behind the dark magic-draped curtain.
Beyond enriching the current state of the genre with a multiplenarratives-at-once layout à la Tarantino and early Paul Thomas Anderson, Cregger and company reportedly siphoned calculated inspiration from Denis Villeneuve’s “Prisoners.”
If the 2013 Hugh Jackman and
Jake Gyllenhaal psycho-thriller preached anything, it was that the kids are most definitely not alright.
Here, the unlikely tandem tasked to investigate the overlooked threads responsible for snatching innocent children from their beds: Garner and Josh Brolin, who stars as the incensed father of one of the mysteriously departed.
He demands answers, firstly from Garner and next from the parasitic kooky aunt who shan’t be named, lest you welcome your algorithm sending you everyone and their mother’s next Halloween costume.
Alden Ehrenreich (“Hail, Caesar!” “Solo: A Star Wars Story”) also works wonders as Officer Paul Morgan, essentially running his own movie-within-a-movie racket; in the process, he reminds us he’s always been more Hobie Doyle than Han Solo.
The “where did they go?” conceit has driven the ratings of many prestige TV sagas. Now, it’s taking over the box office—over $160 million against a $38 million budget—courtesy of New Line Cinema edging out Netflix in a bidding war for a prescient, presentday tale.
An original film with capeless modern resonance would have been the exception to the rule, if superhero supremacy were not
already waning. Its theatrical success confirms people don’t just want to talk about the heavy “unavoidables.”
Better yet: They want to
collectively grieve to a point where it becomes healthy to see the alternative—where acts of grave defiance beget improbable returns—play out, and recognize that even when staged upon the big screen, you can never truly get back what’s been lost.
By this notion, “Weapons” is a school shooting movie where not a single school shooting takes place.
Not Just Salad: Popular Chain Opens up New Location in East Meadow
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Build-your-own salads, wraps and warm bowls have set up shop under a new 2,5000-square-foot “Just Salad” restaurant that opened in East Meadow this month.
The 2411 Hempstead Turnpike location—Long Island’s eighth after Plainview, Port Washington, Commack, Oceanside, Westbury, Huntington Station and Hauppauge—was formerly occupied by AT&T in the same Clearmeadow Plaza as a CVS Pharmacy.
An aside: I hustled into said CVS as my girlfriend rattled off our orders Sunday night with just enough time to spare before her phone shifted this mortal coil–RIP. I did so to snag a couple of 2/$5(.48) gigantic-sized Gatorade Zeroes.
This I-can’t-believe-it’s-notcaloried, gargantuan gauntlet of glacier frost flavors has shaped up to be the antidote to my widely reported penchant for Pepsi, I profess and happily digress in the same fell swoop.
An entrée: Southwest Crunch with Impossible Chicken; a first for me. I’ll still probably eschew impossi-beef for the time being, no disrespect to partakers.
Coming off a Fire Island feast
Saturday that culminated in an after-hours Little Vincent’s indulgence in Lake Ronkonkoma, it seemed imperative I introduce another lifestyle correction for reasons made clear by the didactic tone of this dietarily determined column.
The X-Factor of this excellent meal: a buzzer-beater request by yours truly designed to complement the dressings already cacophonously calibrating an inner circle dubbing itself around town as the avocado, corn and grape tomato medley.
Game-changer, thy name is
Peanut Thai.
Last time I took on Thai: right when we touched down in Denver for my buddy’s bachelor party in July 2023. Something about spicy Thai, the altitude-shifting culture shock and a legitimately cursed airport walkabout drove me to drop just outside the Target we popped by to supply our Airbnb. I lived to tell the tale, vowing to only return to Thai when I could handle the heat.
Just Salad of East Meadow, thank you for making my dreams come true.
Hauppauge, you’re on the clock.
Austin Abrams (pictured) also stars as James; according to reports, he was the only original cast member who did not drop out due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike.
Credit: New Line Cinema/"Weapons"
(Top left) A mural painted on the wall of the East Meadow location, open 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.
Credit: Just Salad
The Firebug Who Torched East Moriches
Credit: Robert Chartuk
East Moriches Firehouse
ByRobertChartuk
Back in 1970, residents were awakened by the East Moriches fire siren blaring. The department couldn’t turn it off because the firehouse was in flames. The blaze was intentional, set by an arsonist.
Living on Main Street, the firebug started out small, lighting sheds and barns behind his neighbor’s homes. Then he got more brazen by burning buildings.
“He started the principal’s house on fire, and they came and put it out,” fireman Gary Mazarakis remembered. “He then tried to burn down the school, and they put that out. He even started his own house on fire. I guess he was fed up with
the fire department since he lit up the firehouse.”
The bug soaked a stack of hoses with gas to start the blaze, severely damaging the firehouse and putting the company’s four trucks out of commission. Gary’s dad, Alex Mazarakis, broke a window to get in and save one of the trucks. “He burned his hands on the chain that lifted the door and had to kick out the windshield to get in because of the flames.” He made numerous trips to Kalers Pond to pick up water to fight the fire.
More than two dozen departments from adjoining areas helped battle the blaze, which burned until the wee hours of the morning, when the siren finally went silent. Some
of them lent East Moriches trucks and equipment until they could reorganize. Damage to the 23-year-old building was assessed at the time to be more than $200,000 ($1.7 million in today’s dollars), with the complete loss of one truck.
The burned-out building was replaced in 1974.
Investigators realized the arsonist struck in a pattern, setting the fires during full moons after midnight. Suffolk Police Officer John Heather had a hunch who it was and staked
Get Moving with the Blue!
ByDeborahWilliams
The Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) partnered with FRQNCY gym in Islip for the final “Workout with a Cop” session of the summer.
FRQNCY gym hosted the free workout for about 30 kids ages 6-17 to get moving alongside SCPD officers.
Deputy Commissioner Belinda Groneman was there as kids enjoyed a fun and active way to connect with police officers while promoting health and community engagement. Kids that participated in the workout received a free backpack with school supplies.
SCPD, in partnership with Hummus Fit, had three “Workout with a Cop” events this summer.
New Correction Officers Are on the Job
ByDeborahWilliams
The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office held a graduation ceremony for 12 new correction officers at the Van Nostrand Theatre at the Grant campus of Suffolk County Community College.
Family and friends were there to celebrate the achievement of their loved ones. During the ceremony, several awards were presented to the members of the graduating classes, including Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr.’s Award for Academic Excellence.
Awardees are:
Dr. Errol D. Toulon, Jr.
Academic Award: Correction Officer Austin Tracy
Leadership Award: Correction Officer Joseph Clarke
Physical Fitness Award: Correction Officer Joshua Saint Fort
The correction officers spent the last 16 weeks in a rigorous training program that included instruction in security and
supervision, defensive tactics, legal issues, implicit bias training, essential services, chemical weapons and firearms, role-play, and more.
These new officers join a force consisting of more than 850 correction officers working in the Suffolk County Correctional Facility. Two of the new correction officers have prior law enforcement experience and many are law enforcement legacies with family who have served in various law enforcement agencies.
out his house, but could not catch him in the act. He was finally fingered for the fires from mud matched from a burning property to his shoes. He spent time in jail and a mental institution and died in Manorville after getting hit by a bus.
Other events took place in June and July.
“Get active, meet your local officers, and build community — all while breaking a sweat!
“Let’s build strength and connection — one workout at a time,”
100 Years, Infinite Memories: Mastic Fire Department to Host Centennial
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Mastic's Fire Department will celebrate a century of unwavering service to its community on September 20th.
This ceremony is the exclamation point of a yearlong commemoration wherein volunteers who stand as a beacon of safety and support for Mastic’s residents have been, and will continue to be thoroughly recognized.
The parade designed to pedestal all those “Ready to Serve” will kick off at 4 p.m.
said SCPD.
Hummus Fit is a meal preparation business focused on healthy foods. Tony and Liana Mavruk own the business and are driven by their passion for health and nutrition.
Credit: Suffolk County Police Department
Work Out with Cop builds community in Suffolk County.
It will start on the corner of Montauk Highway and Titmus Drive, then travel eastward on Herkimer Street before concluding at the Mastic Fire Department’s headquarters. There, live music and vendors will welcome the guests of honor and local citizens
New correction officers are on the job.
New correction officers are on the job.
Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office
Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office
ByRobertChartuk
Suffolk County Honors Volunteer Firefighter of the Year
Recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of Suffolk County’s volunteer fire service, legislators opened their August meeting in Riverhead with a ceremony honoring 18 men and women—one from each district—who exemplify community service and public safety leadership.
Singled out by Legislator Nick Caracappa was Bill Xikis, the 2025 Volunteer Firefighter of the Year from the Fourth Legislative District. Born in Manhattan in 1966 and a longtime Selden resident, Xikis has spent decades serving both his community and the county. After graduating from Newfield High School in 1984, he earned an associate’s degree in applied science from SUNY Farmingdale and a Bachelor of Science from Dowling College.
“Bill has dedicated his life to
protecting others,” said Legislator Caracappa. “His leadership, experience, and unwavering commitment make him a role model not just for the Selden Fire Department, but for volunteer firefighters across Suffolk County.”
Xikis began his firefighting career in 1985 with the Selden Fire Department, serving on Engine Co. #2 and Heavy Rescue Co. #4. Over the years, he has held numerous leadership roles, including lieutenant and captain of Engine Co. #2, crew chief of Heavy Rescue Co. #4, and all three assistant chief positions. Today, he serves as Chief of department and team manager of the Technical Rescue Team, overseeing operations for all units under the Selden Fire Department seal.
“Bill embodies the true spirit of volunteerism,” Caracappa said.
“He has not only responded to countless emergencies, but he has
also mentored new firefighters, ensured his team is prepared for any challenge, and consistently placed the safety of his community above all else.”
Outside of the fire service, Xikis has worked extensively with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, joining in 1994 as a corrections officer. He has served across multiple facilities, including a six-year assignment to B-Crew in Riverhead, and is currently part of the Rehabilitation Unit on C-Crew and a member of the sheriff’s Emergency Response Team.
“From the day he joined the department, Bill has been a tireless advocate for safety, training, and preparedness,” Caracappa added. “His dedication spans decades, and his leadership ensures that the Selden Fire Department remains one of the most respected volunteer services in the county.”
Xikis’s recognition is part of an ongoing effort by Suffolk County legislators to highlight the contributions of volunteer firefighters, who routinely place themselves in harm’s way to protect their neighbors. Caracappa
Cashless Bail Battle Gains Ally in President Trump
ByRobertChartuk
The ongoing battle by local officials, district attorneys, and law enforcement against New York’s failed cashless bail system won a major ally as President Trump ordered the elimination of the policy in Washington, D.C., and threatened to withhold federal funds from jurisdictions that still use it.
“We’re ending cashless bail, and we’re starting right here in Washington, D.C.,” Trump stated as he signed the executive order at the White House. “That was when the big crime started in this country. They thought it was discriminatory to make people put up money because they just killed three people lying on a street.”
Trump's mobilization of law enforcement in the nation’s Capitol has resulted in hundreds of arrests and a dramatic drop in crime, including the first murderfree week in years. Like many other cities led by Progressive Democrats with cashless bail and other pro-criminal policies, Washington suffered a crime wave that terrorized communities. In the 11 days since Trump took over law enforcement in Washington, he reported 439 illegal immigrants removed, six gang leaders arrested,
two missing children reunited with their families, and 49 homeless camps disbanded.
“The Radical Left’s fantasy of so-called ‘cashless bail’ has turned the streets of America’s cities into hunting grounds for repeat criminals who mock our justice system by committing crime after crime without consequence,”
Trump said.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for joining the fight to make our streets safer,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, a local leader in pushing to change the weak criminal justice laws ushered in by the Democrats under former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and maintained by his successor, Kathy Hochul. “It’s been a disaster ever since, and we’re happy to have some help from the White House.”
“My office will continue to seek that defendants who pose a threat to public safety remain in custody, despite the obvious flaws in our law,” said Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney, who pointed to a case involving an alleged arsonist as an example of the broken state system.
“My office requested that Amanda Burnside, an alleged serial arsonist, be held in jail on $500,000 cash, $1 million bond, or $1.5 million partially secured
bond during the pendency of her case,” Tierney reported. “The arraignment judge nevertheless released the defendant on her own recognizance and told her to report for supervised release within 72 hours. Less than two hours after her release from detention, the defendant allegedly committed an armed robbery. Clearly, the dangerousness of this defendant, who allegedly tried to ignite three homes on fire, was not adequately considered, given that within
two hours of her arraignment, she allegedly committed another serious, violent felony.”
In making his cashless bail announcement, Trump cited several New York cases illustrating the problem, including a man released despite dozens of prior arrests who smeared feces on a subway rider, another who executed a mother less than 24 hours after being freed for assault, two illegal immigrants who attacked NYPD officers and were released, and a repeat offender with
concluded, “It’s heroes like Bill Xikis who remind us of the courage and commitment that volunteer firefighters bring to our communities every single day. We are proud to honor him.”
47 prior arrests and 28 convictions freed six times in a single year.
“I’m glad President Trump recognized how big of a problem this is and how dangerous it is,” said Senator Dean Murray. “Unfortunately, we’ve been living that nightmare since 2020, when the Democrat majority rammed through this horrible bail reform that went entirely too far. I’m hopeful that we can now use D.C. as a model and example in our fight here in New York.”
Santos Behind Bars: If You...
Continued from page 2
But the administration? That’s another story altogether. Frankly, I wouldn’t trust the administrators here to run a fast-food restaurant, let alone a federal prison. They don’t seem to understand management, compliance, or even the bare minimum of human rights standards.
And let me be crystal clear: Prison is not supposed to be fun. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. It’s punishment. It’s meant to be difficult. But there’s a line a moral line between punishment and outright neglect of human dignity. When you house 48 men in a dorm with poor air quality due to a broken AC system and black mold on the ceiling… when the bathroom is unsanitary and falling apart…when you serve food that is clearly past its “good through” date, you’re not enforcing justice, you’re stripping people of their basic rights.
What’s worse, when I’ve pressed administrators for answers, I’ve been met with excuses so flimsy they’d be laughable if they weren’t so insulting to my intelligence. I’ve heard everything from “budget cuts” to, yes, believe it or not, “Trump” being blamed for
the conditions here. That’s when I push back. Because I know the numbers. I know the budgets. And their excuses simply don’t hold water.
But amid all this dysfunction, there are moments of unexpected light. And strangely enough, they come not from the people but from the creatures that share this place with us. Fairton is surrounded by a wooded, almost pastoral-like area, and it’s home to a few permanent residents of the furry and scaly variety.
We’ve got four cats roaming the grounds, one of whom just had a litter of five kittens. As an animal lover, I can’t help myself, I’ve spent plenty of my commissary money on tuna to feed them. And I’m not alone. Many inmates pitch in. Now, whether it’s technically “allowed” or not, I don’t know, and I haven’t been told otherwise. So until then, I’ll keep doing it. Those cats bring us a sense of normalcy, a moment of tenderness in an otherwise harsh environment. They’re a blessing, a morale boost, and a reminder that life, in all its forms, finds a way even here.
This week alone I had two unusual encounters with some of our other “neighbors.” One was a
small frog that nearly got crushed underfoot. Without hesitation, I scooped it up and released it safely beyond the fence line of the prison. Then, just a few days later, a garden snake slithered its way toward the dormitory door. Chaos ensued, grown men jumping out of the way, yelling in fear. Meanwhile, I calmly picked up the 2-foot-long garden snake with my hands and relocated her to safety. Call it boredom. Call it me going a little stir-crazy. But I’ll say this: These small interactions with the animals around the Fairton grounds have become highlights of my days.
They shift my mindset, break the monotony, and remind me that even in confinement, the world outside is still turning. So yes, this is prison. Yes, it is tough. But it’s also America, and in America, even behind fences, we are supposed to hold ourselves to high standards. We must never forget that prisoners are human beings. And we must demand accountability from the agencies that operate in our name and with our tax dollars.
Until next week, where I’ll continue to practice my favorite amendment!
Bill Xikis
Trump signs executive order to stop cashless bail.
Credit: Suffolk Legislature
Credit: News feed
ByRobertChartuk
Long Island Dodges Hurricane Erin, but Beaches Take a Beating
Long Island dodged a bullet from Hurricane Erin as the onceCategory 5 storm passed about 350 miles out to sea Friday, sparing the region a direct hit but leaving behind high surf that tore away sand from Fire Island’s beaches and claimed the life of a swimmer.
Erin, the first hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season, briefly intensified into a powerful Category 5 with winds of 160 mph over the open Atlantic before weakening as it curved northward. By the time it passed offshore of Long Island, the
system had dropped to a Category 1 with 90-mph winds and was transitioning into a post-tropical cyclone.
Even at that distance, the storm churned up dangerous seas. Waves topping 15 feet pounded the South Shore, eroding dunes and forcing the closure of some beaches. At Sailors Haven, a man drowned after being pulled under by rip currents, authorities said.
Erin’s sweep up the East Coast caused widespread disruptions.
In North Carolina’s Outer Banks, surf washed over roads and carved
away protective dunes. The storm surge devastated sea turtle nests, wiping out more than half of those deposited on Topsail Island.
New Jersey and Delaware reported flooding in low-lying areas and dozens of water rescues, while ferry service to Nantucket and Cape Cod was suspended in rough seas. Long Island’s low-lying South Shore communities did not experience the major flooding typically seen from coastal storms and nor’easters.
“The flooding was nothing more than we usually get from a storm,” said Mastic Beach Fire Commissioner Bill Biondi. “The tide came in and went back out; there were no evacuations. The peak was about 10:30 at night and most people were sleeping,” he noted, adding that there were no wash-throughs along the barrier beach or at the site of the new inlet off Bellport, which was opened up by Hurricane Sandy, but had filled back in.
Earlier in its track, Erin brought tragedy to the Cape Verde Islands, where torrential rains from the storm’s precursor system killed at least nine people and displaced more than 1,500. Another fatality was reported in the Dominican Republic due to hazardous surf.
By Saturday, Erin had moved into the North Atlantic, where its
Woman Dies After Being Hit by Bus
ByDeborahWilliams
A tragic accident in Port Jefferson Station took the life of a woman Tuesday night. Police are looking for anyone who saw the accident and can give any additional information.
Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are investigating after the woman was hit and killed by a bus in Port Jefferson Station in front of 204 Route 25A. The accident occurred at 10:05 at night.
Carrie Sansone attempted to run westbound across the roadway in
front of 204 Route 25A when she was struck by a southbound Suffolk County Transit bus at 10:05 p.m.
Sansone, 62, of Port Jefferson Station, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The driver of the bus, Louis Livingstone, 51, of Coram, and the only passenger in the bus were not injured. The bus was impounded for a safety check.
Detectives are asking anyone with information on this incident to call the Sixth Squad at 631-8548652.
remnants were forecast to bring heavy rain and strong winds to Ireland and Portugal.
Forecasters noted that Erin’s path bore an unsettling resemblance to 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, though this time the center stayed safely offshore. “This was a near miss,” one meteorologist said. “A slight shift west and we’d be talking about a very different outcome for Long Island.”
North America remains in the heart of hurricane season and residents are advised to monitor storm watches and warnings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is currently tracking a storm named Fernand deep in the Atlantic, but it is not expected to impact the East Coast.
Men Rescued from Capsized Sailboat in Great South Bay
Two men were on a sailboat in the Great South Bay, one mile south of the East Islip Marina, when the 19-foot sailboat overturned. One of the occupants called 911 from his cell phone
The officers rescued a 48-yearold who was hanging onto the mast in the water and a 58-yearold who was sitting on the side of the boat.
Both men were wearing life jackets and were not injured. The Coast Guard Auxiliary towed the boat to the marina.
Ocean water creeps up to the stairs at Smith Point Beach as Hurricane Sandy approaches.
High seas at Smith Point.
Credit: Rosalie Hanson
Credit: Steve Woronick
ByDeborahWilliams Suffolk County Police Marine Bureau officers rescued two people from the Great South Bay after their sailboat overturned today.
and Lt. Thomas Stanzoni and Police Officers Robert Reuter and Kevin Butler aboard Marine Juliet responded.
Credit: Suffolk County Police Department Marine unit rescues man from capsized sailboat.
Tragic accident kills woman.
Credit: Suffolk County Polcie Department
Huntington MS-13 Gang Member Gets 52 Years for Kidnapping, Robbing and Assaulting Teen
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
Yeison “Yerba” Chavez Campos, 23, of Huntington Station, received an over half-century prison sentence for kidnapping a 15-yearold whom he subsequently robbed and beat unconscious.
Chavez Campos was one of seven members of the Huntington Criminal Locates Salvatrucha (HCLS) clique of the MS-13 street gang.
“This brutal attack should not have happened. This defendant and his MS-13 co-conspirators are on notice that they cannot engage in wanton acts of violence in our communities,” said Suffolk District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney. He continued, “We will continue to work with our county and federal
law enforcement partners to ensure that members of transnational violent street gangs who seek to harm our residents are incarcerated and held responsible for their actions.”
The incident occurred on the morning of January 6, 2024, when the victim was lured to the Huntington Train Station.
After Chavez Campos and his associates surrounded the victim and stole his money, they punched and kicked the victim repeatedly as he lay defenseless on the floor after being knocked down.
The victim was then forced into a vehicle and driven to the abandoned Pilgrim Psychiatric Center site in Brentwood. He was taken to a heavily graffitied room, struck with a brick on the back of the head and
stabbed in the neck.
Hours later, Chavez Campos and his crew returned with garbage bags and shovels, keen on burying their victim—but he had disappeared.
Fortunately, the victim regained
consciousness shortly after he was left for dead, escaped the building and walked to a nearby road where a Good Samaritan found him collapsed.
After a 911 call was placed,
the victim was rushed to a local hospital, where he underwent a craniotomy to treat a brain bleed and a fractured skull.
Chavez Campos was officially convicted on July 18th.
Man Flees Traffic Stop with Loaded 9mm Handgun
ByDeborahWilliams
Suffolk County Police arrested four males for possessing weapons after a traffic stop in Patchogue.
A 17-year-old was driving a 2019 Chevrolet when a Fifth Precinct Community Support Unit officer initiated a traffic stop for a suspended registration on Medford Avenue, just south of Sunrise Highway at approximately 10:55 a.m.
During the course of the traffic stop Isaiah Stevenson ran from the rear driver’s side seat. A second officer initiated a foot pursuit and arrested Stevenson in front of a residence on Gladiola Street in Patchogue a short time later Stevenson had a loaded 9mm handgun with extended magazines. A second loaded 9mm handgun with extended magazines was found inside the vehicle. Stevenson, 19, of 47 Blackpine Dr., Medford, was charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon
Four men are arrested on weapons charges after a traffic stop.
2nd Degree, and four counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree.
Anthony Rivera Gomez, 18, of 3003 Chestnut Ave., Medford, and two 17-year-old juveniles were charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree, and two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree.
Stevenson and Rivera Gomez will be held overnight and are scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on August 20. The two 17-year-old juveniles will be held overnight and are scheduled to appear as adolescent offenders at First District Court in Central Islip, on August 20.
Catalytic Converter Theft Crackdown: DA Tierney Announces Prison Sentences
ByMichaelJ.Reistetter
This week, Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney revealed that two defendants have been sentenced to prison and two more are awaiting sentencing.
The quartet—Oliver Morocho, 22, of Corona, Queens; Albert
Espinal, 24, of Queens; Jose Deleon, 38, of Brooklyn; and Geovanny Ortize, 37, of Brooklyn—were part of the same catalytic convertor theft ring, an investigation confirmed.
Morocho, Espinal and Deleon have all either received or are expected to receive 1-3-
year prison sentences. Ortiz is expected to receive a 6-month sentence in October.
The four defendants worked in concert to steal vehicles parked in front of Suffolk County homes throughout 2024.
Court documents show their actions were captured
on homeowners’ surveillance cameras. It was not long before this security technology helped law enforcement officers swiftly identify the culprits.
According to DA Tierney’s office, since their arrests in October, catalytic converter thefts in Suffolk County have dropped more than 90%.
“The convictions of the four perpetrators of these qualityof-life crimes demonstrates our continued commitment to investigating catalytic converter thefts and prosecuting those who steal,” said DA Tierney.
“Stealing catalytic converters on Long Island is rightfully treated as a serious felony.”
Two Killed in Ronkonkoma Crash
ByDeborahWilliams
Peconic Street in Ronkonkoma was the tragic scene of a car crash over the weekend that killed two people.
Suffolk County Police Fifth Squad detectives are investigating the single-vehicle crash.
A man was driving a Subaru Forester westbound on Peconic Street when the vehicle crossed into the eastbound lane, left the roadway and struck a tree at 11:20 a.m.
The driver and female
passenger were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities were initially withheld pending positive identification from the Office of the Suffolk County Medical Examiner. They have since been identified as Walter Jakubowski, 83, and his wife Margaret Jakubowski, 75, of Ronkonkoma.
The vehicle was impounded for a safety check. Suffolk County Police are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the crash. If you have information on this crash, please call the Fifth Squad at 631-854-8552.
Mug shots for the four defendants (top to bottom): Espinal, Ortiz, Deleon and Morocho.
(Pictured) Yeison “Yerba” Chavez Campos, 23, of Huntington Station, and his Criminal Locates Salvatrucha bretheren kidnapped a 15-year-old, robbed him and beat him unconscious with intent to bury him.
Credit: SCDA
Credit: SCDA
Credit: Grok/Twitter
Two were killed in Ronkonkoma car crash.
Credit: Suffolk County Polcie Department
ByRobertChartuk
Trump Launches U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund, Takes 10% Stake in Intel Using CHIPS and Science Act Funds
Having a businessman as president has its advantages, especially in dealing with how tax dollars are spent. Donald Trump’s creation of a U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund and taking a 10% stake in the computer chip maker Intel, rather than just doling out corporate welfare as was the practice of previous administrations, underscores how his financial acumen can benefit the public.
Passing the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act in 2022, Congress wanted to make sure the nation was on the cutting edge of computer technology and not have to depend on foreign countries for the chips and semiconductors that make modern life possible. Instead of a handout, Trump invested $8.9 billion with California-based Intel and secured a piece of the action for the taxpayers. It was out-ofthe-box thinking that corresponds with Trump’s Make America Great Again agenda.
Government investment accounts are not new. Kuwait
created the first modern fund in 1953 to invest surplus oil revenues. Since then, the concept has spread worldwide, and today, there are nearly 100 SWFs managing over $9 trillion in assets. Their purpose is to convert national wealth—whether from oil, natural resources, or trade surpluses—into long-term investments that benefit future generations.
The largest SWF belongs to Norway, which manages about $1.7 trillion. China runs two major funds totaling about $2.4 trillion, while Abu Dhabi’s fund holds roughly $1.1 trillion. Collectively, these giants dominate global sovereign investing. Their portfolios typically include stocks, bonds, real estate, infrastructure, and private equity. By spreading investments across industries and continents, SWFs not only secure higher returns than traditional reserves but also exert enormous influence on global markets.
In New York City, for example, the Chinese own some of the buildings that make up the iconic skyline. They bought the General
Motors Building, Waldorf Astoria Hotel, One Chase Manhattan Plaza, Park Avenue Plaza, and the 29-story 7 Bryant Park building. The Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C., the Standard Oil Building in San Francisco, and many other lesser-known properties are also under Chinese control.
For the United States, Trump’s move is historic. Unlike oil-rich nations or export-driven economies like China, America has traditionally run trade deficits and relied on debt to finance spending, leaving little room for a taxpayer benefit fund. That is why past industrial policy has leaned on subsidies and grants rather than ownership stakes. Trump’s approach breaks that mold by insisting taxpayers share in the upside of government-backed investments.
The Intel deal could set a precedent. If future U.S. industrial programs—from renewable energy to artificial intelligence—were tied to equity stakes rather than outright subsidies, Washington would not just be spending but also investing. That strategy could
reduce waste, build public wealth, and give taxpayers a direct claim in the technologies shaping the 21st century.
For now, the U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund remains in its infancy. But the Intel deal signals that America may finally be taking a page from the playbook of other
countries and start leveraging deals for our own advantage.
If the strategy succeeds, Trump’s decision to invest rather than give away could reshape how Washington manages public money—and mark a turning point in the nation’s economic future.
DOGE Report: Secretary Noem Saving $50 Million Every Day
ByDeborahWilliams
In the first 200 days of the second Trump administration, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem has saved the American people $12 billion through commonsense cost accountability processes across the DHS.
These accountability processes are at the very core of the mindset of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that is now embedded in all departments of the federal government.
By reducing the size of government and eliminating career bureaucrats, Noem saved U.S. taxpayers $1.3 billion. All of these savings were achieved without cuts to key law enforcement, border security, national security, immigration enforcement and positions with a public safety responsibility.
Secretary Noem personally reviews and approves any contract above $100,000. This process saved U.S. taxpayers an additional $10.7 billion.
“It is stunning that for years, career bureaucrats were unilaterally signing off on hundred-milliondollar contracts leading to massive waste, fraud, and abuse of U.S. taxpayer dollars,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
“While lobbyists and special interests are fighting for government contracts, Secretary Noem is fighting for the American taxpayer.”
These figures don’t even
include the additional savings from DHS's immigration enforcement efforts under President Trump’s leadership.
The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) estimates the net cost of illegal immigration at the federal, state, and local levels was at least $150.7 billion annually as of early 2023. This translates to an average cost of $8,776 per illegal
immigrant or U.S.-born child of illegal immigrants per year. Removing 1.6 million illegals from the country has resulted in an additional $14 billion in cost savings per year.
Since taking office, Noem has reviewed more than 5,000 contracts and reviews all contracts within 24 hours. DHS’s reforms have exposed years of unchecked spending, including infamous examples such as the federal government paying $1,300 for a single re-heatable coffee cup.
In other DOGE-related news, according to SCOTUSBlog, “By a vote of 5-4, the Supreme Court agreed to allow the National Institutes of Health, the largest public funding source for biomedical research in the world, to terminate $783 million in grants linked to DEI initiatives.”
A goal of the Trump administration, and a mission of DOGE, is to eliminate race-based
and identity-based decisionmaking and programs across the federal government and in funding to any foreign effort.
Contracts Update
Over the last five days, agencies terminated 163 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $1.9B and savings of $647M, including, a $35M USAID contract to “acquire contractor support to establish and manage a flexible, quick response mechanism supporting activities that will support democracy and stability in El Salvador,” a $280k DOI contract for “horse mounted patrol groom services,” a $102k DOT contract for an “assessment specialist academics provost office,” a $179k State Dept. contract for “customized English language training to the US embassy in Yerevan, Armenia,” and a $25k DOI contract to “provide facilitation, collaborative problem solving services.”
DHS cancels contracts for $1,300 coffee cups.
Credit: Grok/Twitter
HISTORY LESSONS Is There Any Recent Chance of Peace in Ukraine?
BY RICHARD ACRITELLI
- President Donald J. Trump
“There’s no deal until there’s a deal.”
After three years of the RussiaUkraine War, these were the words of Trump toward his meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15th. There was an immediate show of American force with bombers and fighter planes operating overhead and a red carpet to highlight one of the main goals of Trump’s presidency to secure peace in Europe. Much has been said about the praise that Trump has presented to Putin, but he has been angered about the escalation of the fighting in Ukraine, the heavy losses, and the belief that the Russians are incapable of agreeing to peace.
On August 18th, next to the major North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) leaders, there was a positive meeting to cover the discussions that were held by Trump and Putin. Although these European countries are tired of this war, they are worried about the security guarantees not only for Ukraine, but for their own territories. For the last 17 years, Putin has made the Russian military presence felt through the 2008 invasion of Georgia. While the United States and European nations condemned this attack and provided some aid to the supporters of democracy, nothing was done to oppose this bloody assault against Putin’s neighbor. In 2008, both Georgia and Ukraine were promised admission into NATO through their meetings in Bucharest. In 2014, they feared that Putin could never be trusted after he covertly took the Crimea and it is his goal of restoring Russian historic power in this strategic water crossroads that sits near Europe and Asia. The invasion of Ukraine is an aggressive, calculated drive by Putin to continually demonstrate Russian resolve on the former Soviet Republics.
If peace is concluded, enhanced security rights for Ukraine are needed by a possible deployment of European soldiers to aid this nation. Whereas Putin is desperate to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO, both Finland and Sweden serve as a stark reminder that this nation will be the most likely enter this Western alliance. During his first term, Trump did not have a warm relationship with NATO, but through his prodding, these nations have increased their spending to 5% of their gross domestic product (GDP). The European mistrust of Putin has economically and militarily strengthened the NATO alliance to strengthen their defense and the continued support to Ukraine.
There was a different feeling from this meeting with Volodymyr
Zelenskyy that was less contentious from the bickering in front of the cameras on February 28th. Rather, they smiled about the new black suit that Zelenskyy wore that was unlike his usual military clothing and European leaders thanked Trump for his efforts to attempt to achieve a suitable peace. And while there are many questions to be answered, there was noticeable unity amongst these Western leaders. There has been open communication since Trump left Putin in Alaska, as he spoke to all these figures on Air Force One, and even after he landed from this meeting.
It is hard to determine the type of security presence that will be offered to Zelenskyy, but there will be a likely deployment of troops from European countries to protect Ukraine. Whereas “Article V” was established by NATO in 1949 toward the collective security of its members, there are concerns over the deployment of soldiers, and how this alliance responds toward any deadly military contact with Russia. Many Europeans fear that a negotiated peace will not be respected by Putin and that he will again use force. As China monitors the opposition against Russia, they are testing the waters over their anticipated invasion of Taiwan. Currently, China is observing the relationships of Central and Eastern European countries as they bond closer together to create better security ties, as the same could occur in Asia and the Pacific if Taiwan is attacked by this power.
A European nation that holds a checkered past with Russia is Finland who shares an 800-mile border with the Russians, fought them during the 1939 Winter Border War and has always been in their shadow. Now a member of NATO, they understand the importance of demonstrating strength against the actions of Putin. Their leader, Alexander Stubb, stated, "Putin is rarely to be trusted. So now it remains to be seen whether he has the courage to come to this type of meeting. Does he have the courage to come to a trilateral meeting, or is he once again playing for time?" Playing golf with Trump, and often speaking with him during early hour calls, Stubb is a key figure to promote strength, security, and stability against the powerful drive of Putin.
Geography plays a major role, as Trump and his Secretary of State Marco Rubio have suggested multiple times that Russia and Ukraine will both have to accept new territorial lines. Putin has conquered about 20% of Ukrainian territory and still holds the Crimea from 2014. It is estimated that most of the province of Luhansk has
been taken by the Russians, and they control over two-thirds of Donetsk. But the Ukrainians are fighting for several main cities and towns and occupy fortifications within this hotly contested area. These regions that comprise the Donbas contain extensive mineral wealth that will be needed to finance the many destroyed parts of Ukraine.
In Alaska, Putin demanded Zelensky to cede the entire Donbas region to the Russians, with little mention of territory that will be presented to the Ukrainians. Since 2014, there have been 1.5 million people who fled the Russiancontrolled territories of Donbas and if this part is completely lost, these citizens will never return to their homes. The feelings are split in Ukraine over the ceding of territory, as the people are tired from this war. There are few alternatives for Ukraine, as they will surely lose land, and they can never trust Putin and future Russian leaders' motives toward their nation.
Whereas the Russian military and government has faltered through major parts of this military operation, they have established a wartime economy. The Russians are manufacturing a massive number of armaments that are resupplying their forces who are every day attacking Ukraine. Even as Trump met in Washington, D.C., with European leaders, an entire family, including a toddler, was killed by a Russian air assault, where 23 people were lost. Relentlessly, Putin’s forces hit Ukraine, as seen on July 12th, there were 600 drone attacks against Zelenskyy's country. Numerous Iranian “Shahed” drones reigned down terror and inflicted losses on Ukraine, where it is believed that 40,000 citizens and 80,000 soldiers have been killed.
Zelenskyy addressed the over 20,000 children that have been abducted and deported by Russian forces and presented that these citizens are to be immediately returned to Ukraine. These children are living under Russian government authority
average salary in this country. And they also offered clemency for imprisoned criminals, who, if they survive, will most likely receive a shorter sentence or freedom after the conclusion of this war. Although the Russian economy has been hurt by this war, their national defense industry has flourished, and it is not in the interest to promote peace, as they are earning major profits.
in orphanages and reeducation camps, as their birth records and names have been changed. Russia has strictly prevented Ukrainian children from embracing their roots and have forced them to accept their ideals. Trump’s wife, Melania, wrote a letter to Putin to secure the release of these children who are being held against their will in a foreign land. And ironically, thousands are being forced to join the Russian military and paramilitary groups to fight against the Ukrainians. Two years ago, the International Criminal Court in The Hague presented an arrest warrant against Putin for committing these crimes against humanity. In 1948, United Nations Genocide Convention claimed it was an act of genocide through the “forcible transferring of children of the group to another group.”
This war has overwhelmingly hit the Russian population through intense losses of 1,000,000 casualties and 250,000 killed. For most of the war, the Russians have presented poor battlefield leadership that has resulted in foreign military forces aiding them against Ukraine. In late 2024, North Korea deployed its troops to Ukraine to aid Russia, and it is believed by South Korean intelligence that this Communist nation has lost 600 soldiers with over 4,700 casualties fighting against the Ukrainians. North Korea had a difficult time adjusting to the front lines of this “meat grinder,” but it appears that they have gained Russian knowledge to build more advanced drones, weapons systems, and satellites. These combat soldiers will return home to North Korea where they will bolster their own forces against the presence of South Korea and the United States on the demilitarized zone.
Putin cannot shield the immense amount of losses that his nation has suffered from the awful fighting in Ukraine. To entice the enlistment of his Armed Forces, the Russian government is offering plentiful financial bonuses to serve in this military. Russian soldiers can earn $2,300, that is four times more than the
At home, the war has completely allowed Putin to crack down on dissent from groups who are opposed to the war and his leadership. Directly after the start of fighting in Ukraine, Putin decreed that it was illegal to protest “the special military operation.” Any domestic opposition was widely regarded as treason, incitement of hatred within this nation, and violence against the police. These citizens have received lengthy jail sentences for committing in America “First Amendment” rights for their opposition to this war. A Russian artist went to jail for dropping postcards in shopping markets that she created to show the unjust actions of Putin’s violent campaign. While protests increased, the government made laws to confiscate property of Russians who opposed this war. Through the taking of over 20,000 children, atrocities committed by the Russian military, and increased civilian losses in Ukraine, Putin maintains that any negative reporting within his country is “discredited” news.
In 2024, the Russian government created new laws that confiscated government private property from citizens who openly opposed this war. Many of these reporters, bloggers, writers, artists, and regular people are now imprisoned in terrible imprisonment conditions. There has been a lack of food, care, and forced psychiatric treatment to alter their "misguided” views against the Russian government. Children of dissidents have been placed in orphanages, as they are unable to see their own parents who are serving excessive terms in jail. A 10-year-old student had a picture of Ukrainian children hurt from this war on her phone and the government threatened to punish the entire family. As the fighting grew in time, losses, and negativity, the Russian government continued to oppose the basic freedoms of their own people who are not allowed to domestically oppose war. Whereas the European nations and Trump desperately want a suitable peace for Zelenskyy, there are many unknowns that will surely be discovered from the awful conduct of Putin’s government and military conduct against Ukraine.
Credit: L9871456 | Dreamstime.com
Portrait of Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Vladimir Putin.
BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.
To be eligible, a person’s disability must meet a severity threshold and the disability must have begun before they reached the age of 26. Starting January 1, 2026, the ABLE Age Adjustment Act expanded eligibility to those whose disability began before the age of 46.
To meet the disability requirement, an individual must be receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because of a disability. SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and SSDI provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work. Another way to achieve eligibility, if not receiving SSI or SSDI, is to have a licensed physician sign documentation stating that the individual's disability meets a "marked and
severe" functional limitation standard as stated in the ABLE law.
ABLE-eligible individuals can add money to a savings account and any earnings are tax-deferred and tax-free as long as they are used for “qualified disability expenses.” Disability expenses include but are not limited to costs related to blindness or the owner’s disability and benefit the account owner’s health, independence, or quality of life. An account with a balance below $100,000 is excluded from the SSI resource limit, but Medicaid eligibility will stay intact regardless of account balance. An individual can only have one ABLE account, and it cannot exceed $520,000.
As of 2025, contributions to ABLE accounts cannot exceed more than $19,000 annually. However, those who are ABLEeligible and employed, may
ABLE Account Eligibility
contribute additional funds to their account if the contribution is equal to the federal poverty line or the account owner’s income, whichever is less. Additional contributions are not permitted if the person is also contributing to a retirement plan.
In New York, an ABLE account
may have a checking account component which allows its owners to make withdrawals via debit card or check. If the eligible person is unable to open their own ABLE account, an agent under a power of attorney may open the account on his or her behalf. A conservator, legal guardian, spouse, parent, sibling,
or grandparent may also open an ABLE account for an eligible person.
An ABLE account is one solution of many for individuals eligible for government benefits looking to protect their benefits and preserve assets. Eligible individuals should work with an attorney to ensure the best solution for their own circumstance.
Britt Burner, Esq. and Erin Cullen, Esq.
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, Esq. is an associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice on Trusts and Estates. 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.
BY TARA D’AMATO
Come join us for some fun new music events for adults at the library. Whether you already play an instrument and want to jam, are interested in learning, or just want to sing at an open mic-we have something for you at the
Electric Jam Session
Thursday,September4, 6:30–8:00p.m.
Held at our Main Building. Registration begins Monday, August 25.
Whether you're a pro or just starting out, come on down with your instrument and join the jam!
Songs will include: "All
Along the Watchtower" (C minor), "Sunshine of Your Love" (D minor), "Time" (F# minor), "Whole Lotta Love" (E minor), "I Can't Get No Satisfaction" (E major), and more!
Held at our Moriches Branch. Registration begins Monday, August 25. Have you always wanted to learn how to play the guitar? Join musician and instructor
Please bring your own acoustic guitar.
Open Mic Night
Thursday,September25, 6:00–8:30p.m.
Held at our Main Building. Registration begins Thursday, August 28.
The mic is all yours! Sing some songs, read some poems, tell some jokes, or come to just listen. Performers will have a 15-minute performance slot. Microphones and a keyboard will be provided. Registration for performers will begin at 5:45 p.m. Open to all.
Will Conger and learn the fundamentals of guitar in this 6-lesson series.
• Pre-registration is $30 (in-person and virtual run)
Race Day registration is $35 (cash)
• Get your name on your bib by 8/15/25
• Mailed registrations must be received by 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 4th, 2025
• Entry fees are non-refundable
• Sanctioned by USATF Timing by elitefeats
• Free performance T-shirts for first 400 registrants
• Awards will be presented to top 3 male and female overall and top 3 male and female in each age group
• Call (631) 399-1511 x2002 for more information
• Parking fee in effect after 8:30 a.m.
• Long Island Expressway to Exit 68 South. Stay on William Floyd Parkway for approximately 7.5 miles. Parkway ends at Smith Point Park.
(Please Print)
WAIVER
I know that running a road race is potentially a hazardous activity. I should not enter unless I am medically able and properly trained. I assume all risks associated with this event including, but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, the effects of weather, including heat/humidity, dehydration, traffic & road conditions, all such risks being known & appreciated by me. Having read this waiver & knowing these facts & in consideration of your accepting my entry, I, for myself & anyone entitled to act on my behalf, waive and release the County of Suffolk, Town of Brookhaven, Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library, Community Family Literacy Project Inc., all trustees, all sponsors, Race Directors, their agents, volunteers, their representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation in this event. I grant permission to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings, & any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
(if under 18, signature of parent or legal guardian)
Please
LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK
CMG MORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, Against
COREY LEMAY A/K/A
COREY M. LEMAY, et al, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 10/23/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 9/10/2025 at 11:00AM, premises known as 30 Balsam Drive, Medford, New York 11763, 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 870.00 Block 03.00 Lot 030.002 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $318,054.88 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 604459/2015
Thomas Joseph Demayo, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE CHALET SERIES IV TRUST, PLAINTIFF, VS.
JENNIFER WAGNERAUERBECK A/K/A J.D. WAGNER-AUERBECK
A/K/A JENNIFER W. AUERBECK A/K/A JENNIFER WAGNER, ET AL., DEFENDANT(S).
Pursuant to a Judgment of
Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 3, 2023 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee duly entered on April 30, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 10, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., premises known as 24 Golden Gate Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200, Section 980.30, Block 01.00 and Lot 032.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $260,227.18 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616260/2021.
John Bennett, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 203392-1
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF AND WITH RESPECT TO AJAX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2016-C, MORTGAGE-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2016-C, Plaintiff, vs. RICHARD FRANCA, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 26, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 16, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., premises known as 232 Vita Drive, Shirley, NY 11967. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Township of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New
York, District 0200, Section 644.00, Block 01.00 and Lot 021.001. Approximate amount of judgment is $235,844.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610834/2018.
Frank Maffei, Esq., Referee
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 180758-1
SPLITRAIL PLACE ASSOCIATES, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST
PROPERTY OPTIONS NY LLC, JASON A. ROMANIELLO, TOWN SUPERVISOR OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, VAULT CAPITAL LLC, NEXTSTONE CAPITAL LLC, INDEPENDENT FUNDING GROUP LLC, and JOHN DOE and JANE DOE, the last two names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, and any parties, corporations or entities, if any, having or claiming an interest or lien upon the mortgaged premises,
Defendant(s)
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated August 1, 2024 and duly entered August 15, 2024, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau wherein SPLITRAIL PLACE ASSOCIATES, LLC is the Plaintiff and PROPERTY OPTIONS NY LLC, JASON A. ROMANIELLO, TOWN SUPERVISOR OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, VAULT CAPITAL LLC, NEXTSTONE CAPITAL LLC, INDEPENDENT FUNDING GROUP LLC,
and JOHN DOE and JANE DOE, the last two names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, and any parties, corporations or entities, if any, having or claiming an interest or lien upon the mortgaged premises are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY11738 on September 23, 2025 at 10:30 AM, the premises known as 87 Lynbrook Drive, Mastic Beach, NY 11951, Block 13.00 Lot 046.00.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWNSHIP OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Approximate amount of judgment $187,512.56 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #619398/2023. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the District and SUFFOLK County Auction Plan in effect at this time.
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 613196/2024 U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-3 Plaintiff, vs JOSEPH EDISON REPP AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH
W. REPP AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF BLYTHE ANN REPP, ERICA EASOW AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH W. REPP AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF BLYTHE ANN REPP, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOSEPH W. REPP IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE JOHN DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 417 Old Montauk Highway Eastport, NY 11941 To the
Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Suffolk. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Joseph W. Repp Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Susan Betsy Heckman Torres of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Eighth day of August, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, in the City of Riverhead. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Joseph W. Repp and Blythe Ann Repp dated the March 29, 2007, to secure the sum of $247,775.00 and recorded at Book M00021508, Page 110 in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on April 3, 2007. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 16, 2009 and recorded on May 5, 2009, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book M00021813, Page 251. The mortgage was subsequently modified on December 24, 2011. The mortgage was subsequently modified on January 26, 2017. The mortgage was subsequently modified by a Deferral Agreement on November 4, 2022. The mortgage was subsequently modified by a Deferral Agreement on March 10, 2023. The mortgage was
subsequently modified by a Deferral Agreement on April 29, 2023. The property in question is described as follows: 417 Old Montauk Highway, Eastport, NY 11941 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: August 11, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 86963
L16326 - 08/20/2025,
08/27/2025, 09/03/2025 & 09/10/2025
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST William Giangrande; Wendy Giangrande a/k/a Wendy R. Giangrande; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 21, 2022, amended December 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on September 30, 2025, at 10:30AM, premises known as 119 Holbrook Road, Holbrook, NY 11741. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0200 Section 727.00 Block 05.00 Lot 010.000. Approximate amount of judgment $734,335.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 064294/2013.
Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee
LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro &
Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Notice of formation of The Wellness Studio LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 7/22/2025. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to The Wellness Studio, LLC at 28 Hollywood Drive, Shirley, NY, 11967. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County ELIZON MASTER PARTICIPATION
TRUST I, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS OWNER TRUSTEE, Plaintiff -againstUNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES LEWIS HUGHES, JR. A/K/A JAMES L. HUGHES, JR.; RUTH HUGHES, AS HEIR
AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES LEWIS HUGHES, JR. A/K/A JAMES L. HUGHES, JR.; JAMES HUGHES, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES LEWIS HUGHES, JR. A/K/A JAMES L. HUGHES, JR.; ANNA WEBER-HUGHES A/K/A ANNA HUGHES, AS GUARDIAN OF UNNAMED MINOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES LEWIS HUGHES, JR. A/K/A JAMES L. HUGHES, JR.; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC.; GMAC MORTGAGE, LLC D/B/A DITECH; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC AND PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY; SYSCO LONG ISLAND LLC; DAN J. SCHULMAN; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; SLATE ADVANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; DAVID J. WEISSBERG, MD, PC; "JOHN DOE" AND "JANE DOE" said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of the premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. Index No. 610488/2025. Mortgaged Premises: 29 St. Joseph
Avenue Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 District: 0200
Section: 761.00 Block: 05.00 Lot: 040.000 To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a mortgage to secure $261,200.00 and interest, recorded in the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on September 12, 2006, in Liber Book M00021380, at Page 871, covering the premises known as 29 St. Joseph Avenue, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt
secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located.. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.
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The Fantasy Baseball Experience - Go Get 'Em!
ByTomBarton
The dog days of summer are slowly coming to an end and most fantasy managers have their eye on making that late push to claim the title. That late push often comes with some keen, late-season additions and acquisitions. Many leagues will have their trade deadline coming up this week, but even if you missed the deadline the waiver wire can always make or break your season late in August and into September.
Here are two players that you should be targeting.
The first is Brenton Doyle. Doyle was a fantasy stud last season after he hit 23 HRs and stole 30 bases. That was along with his .260 average, and he even added in runs and RBIs. Doyle also had the security of an everyday job because of his stellar defense. But it all came crashing down this season. Doyle was truly awful in the
beginning of the year, so much so that the Rockies, yes, the lastplace Rockies, benched him a few times per week.
All that has changed recently though and now is the time to buy on Doyle from a frustrated owner. Doyle is back to playing every day and his bat is speaking loudly. Doyle's last 26 games have been nothing short of amazing. He's had 95 at bats, is batting .404 over that span with 7 HRs, 4 2Bs and 4 steals. In August he has also added 19 RBIs and 14 runs scored. This is a legit league winner if he can keep up this pace and while I doubt that he can hit .400 for September, I do think he can still produce in the power and steals departments.
The next player is owned in less than 25% of leagues and I get why. Look, Andres Chapparo won't impress you with his season-long numbers but his place on the team right now is something to buy in on.
same thing. He was a player without a position,
but he always could hit. Chapparo hit again this year in AAA he was hitting .275 with 14 home runs over 48 games with Rochester. That's par for the course for Chapparo, but this major league look is different because he has a position. The Nats cut Nate Lowe and they have a hole to fill at 1B and DH, that means consistent at bats for Chapparo to make his claim that he belongs in the bigs. The more eye-opening situational upside though is where the Nats have placed him in the order. Since his call up he has been batting fourth. You don't throw a guy into the heart of your lineup, protecting James Wood, if you don't believe in his bat.
The Nats and Rockies are telling you to buy these players and with a shrewd move like this, it might just be enough to lead you to a championship season.
Chapparo was once a Yankees farmhand, and every scouting report said the
Brenton Doyle
THE BETTOR ANGLE TM
BY TOM BARTON
Week zero is in the books, and yes it feels weird typing that, and the 2025 College Football season is off and running. While last week's slate of games proved entertaining, many of us could care less about most of the matchups. That is not the case in the official Week 1 of College Football this weekend.
There are three top 10 matchups this week, including a massive meeting between the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes and preseason #1 Texas Longhorns.
Ohio State is playing with a chip on their shoulder for this one and they feel they should be ranked #1 after what they accomplished just last season. They did however lose 14 different players from that championship team, including their starting QB. Texas meanwhile returns much of their fierce defense and now they will have the Heisman favorite Arch Manning behind center.
Manning comes in with all of the attention and pedigree to
make a true Heisman run, and while a loss in this spot won't hurt either team's chances at a National Championship, it certainly could impact voters who are looking at Arch and his coveted trophy.
Sure, all eyes will be on that marquee matchup, but we also get big time games like LSU vs. Clemson, who are ranked #9 and #4 respectively, and each have some Heisman hopefuls on their squads. We also get a Sunday night standalone game when Notre Dame and Miami clash. This might not be up to par of the Catholics vs. the Convicts days of past, but both are ranked inside the top 10. Even games like Florida State against Alabama and South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech add to the hot weekend.
It's not all lollipops and rainbows though because nine games have top 25 teams facing Division I-AA opponents, and six more top 25 teams playing mid-majors.
That is where some value van be found. The sports books know that
Week 1 in College Football Presents Some Value
the public wants to bet the big time TV games, but value is always out there in some of the lesser games. One game that is intriguing is Rutgers who is playing Ohio, and these are the type of spots that you want to locate.
The Ohio Bobcats have had a successful program, but they just lost their head coach. He took with him his defensive coordinator and defensive line coach. They also watched 6 more defensive players leave including their best pass rusher who found his way to Rutgers. This is a first-year head coach against a power five school, that cashes less than 35% of the time and Ohio will also try to win with 5 offensive lineman who never played together. The line has jumped from -10 to -14 and rising.
While the TV games are always fun and the top 25 matchups bring eyes to the screens, for sports bettors' turnover and lesser games hold value. This is certainly the case in Week 1.
SPORTS Trump Brings FIFA To D.C.
ByTomBarton
President Trump is bringing potentially the biggest sporting event to the United States.
The draw for the 2026 FIFA men's World Cup will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The announcement was made from the Oval Office by President Donald Trump for the December 5th event.
"It's the biggest, probably the biggest event in sports, I guess," said Trump.
The 2026 event will be hosted in three different countries. The United States, Canada and
Mexico. This will be the first World Cup hosted by three nations and also the first with the expansion to 48 teams.
Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA said the draw will see the 48 qualified teams split into 12 groups of four teams. The top two teams from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams will advance to the knockout stage.
The event is usually a very big display with lots of pomp and circumstance. When the United States held the World Cup in 1994, the draw was held in Las Vegas with Stevie Wonder
The World Cup kicks off June 11 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City and runs through the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Infantino presented Trump with a ticket to next year's World Cup final, which the FIFA president said was the first ticket available for the upcoming tournament and he also brought the World Cup trophy with
him to the Oval Office. Trump wanted to hold the trophy but was told it's a superstition, much like the Stanley Cup, that players believe that touching the trophy before their team actually wins the tournament on the field can spark bad luck.
Infantino said the trophy is "for winners only," and then handed the trophy to Trump saying, "And, since you are a winner, of course you can as well."
The president held the trophy and commented that it was "a beautiful piece of gold" and maybe he can display it in the Oval Office.
among the headline performers.
Trump with the World Cup
Credit: @US_diarioas | X
A True Inspiration Returns to Sachem
soccer teams.
The video call was organized by the Sachem Alumni Association and Sachem Athletic Department around National Girls and Women
Hitting Home Runs for Heros
ByTomBarton
This week the Jibaritos with Troops Fourth Annual Charity Softball game took place for a great cause in Holtsville.
The event was dubbed 'Hitting Home Runs for Heros' and the day was full of festivities. From face painting for the children to food and family activities there was something for everyone. But the real fun began with the charity softball game.
Suffolk County Commissioner Kevin Catalina threw out the first pitch and everyone there knew this was about more than just a game.
in Sports Day. Ferguson-Dayes visit kicked off the district’s brandnew “Numbers of Recognition” program-honoring pioneering female student-athletes who made their mark as leaders, scholars, and role models.
Starting in 2025 with girls’ soccer at East and North, the jersey numbers of legendary alumni will be passed on to current studentathletes who embody leadership, academic success, and community pride. Ferguson's #22 will be the
first Number of Recognition awarded. That ceremony will take place before the upcoming fall season.
Ferguson, a Sachem Athletic Hall of Famer and Suffolk County Sports Hall of Famer, is a former UConn All-American and U.S. Women’s National Team player. Her 211 wins make her the winningest coach in Louisville history. She took a struggling soccer program at the University of Louisville and molded it into a
top-25 program.
Prior to Louisville she was the assistant coach at the University of Connecticut for three seasons. The Huskies were 60-12-2 during the three years she spent as an assistant, advanced to the final eight twice and were national runner-up in 1997.
Sachem social media called her: "A true inspiration for past, present, and future Sachem athletes."
Sachem on the National Stage
ByTomBarton
Sachem High School has produced some outstanding athletes but what was accomplished this week has to be near the top of the list for alumni accomplishments.
Lauren Harris won her first National Title in the 20k race walk. In winning the event she broke her own national and area record while solidifying her world ranking.
What makes this even more of a cherry on top for Sachem is that fellow Sachem alum, Olympian, Hall of Famer, and racewalking legend Maria Michta-Coffey, finished in second place. The two share a unique bond that goes beyond just being from the same high school as she actually is Harris's coach.
The 26-year-old Harris begins her day at 4 a.m. for training and then is off to teach middle school, where she is a
While at Sachem East she captured then national high school girls outdoor record in the 1500m race walk, the with Marist University she continued her winning ways earning a nod on the MAAC All-Academic Team (XC, ITF, OTF) in 2018-2019 and again in 2019-2020.
Racewalking is a long-
distance, high-speed walk that differs from a traditional footrace. One foot must appear to be in contact with the ground at all times. Race judges carefully assess that this is maintained throughout the race.
Racewalking was recently in the Summer Olympics, in the 20k racewalk (men and women) and the marathon racewalk mixed relay.
Saintjean is the HR Champ
ByTomBarton
All of the money raised will go to benefit children of fallen heroes and the Police Explorers program.
The Police Explorers program is coordinated through the Boy Scouts of America. The goal of the Police Explorers program is to provide an immersive career experience within a controlled environment focused on law enforcement.
The Children of Fallen Heros is dedicated to providing unwavering support to the children of military members, first responders, foster youth, caregivers, and students from Title One schools who have faced the loss or sacrifice of a loved one.
Members of SCPD, US Army, Jibaritos with Troops and Kortright Kares participated at the PAL Field.
Last week Axcess Baseball held their 2025 Home Run Derby.
When all was said and done the winner of the event was Ethan Saintjean. Saintjean is set to graduate from Half Hollow Hills West this year. During the derby competition he was able to smash seven home runs in the finals to take the crown.
Saintjean defeated Michael Garcia, from Saint John the Baptist. He hit 18 home runs through the three rounds of the derby in an impressive showing.
Other participants included Dylan Weinstein, Joe Maxwell, Alphonso Terrana, Connor Ackerman, Jaden Valdez, Joe Perri, Dom Longardino, Mateo Rincon, Alex Golub, Chad Jackson, and Mason Miles.
thanked the participants, the event sponsors and especially the BK7 Brand, who designed this year's uniforms to raise awareness for the
Credit: scpdhq | Instagram Home Run For Heros
ByTomBarton
Sachem had a very special guest this summer when alum and University of Louisville women’s soccer coach Karen FergusonDayes (Class of ’90) returned to the school to speak with the Sachem East and Sachem North girls’
Ferguson-Dayes
Credit: Sachem Schools | Facebook
Axcess baseball
Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Axcess Baseball holds tournaments around Long Island and features LI players in order to promote and prepare them for the next level in their careers.
Credit: Axcess Baseball | Facebook
math teacher and track coach.
Credit: Sachem Schools | Facebook Lauren Harris
Axcess Baseball HR Derby
SPORTS Stony Brook Looks for A Big Year
ByTomBarton
This Labor Day weekend the Stony Brook football team will play their first game of the season, and they may have never had higher expectations than they do right now.
The Seawolves begin the season ranked #24 in the nation in the 2025 Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 Poll.
The Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) performed well in the preseason polls with five teams ranked inside the top 15. Rhode Island is the favorite ranking ninth overall, followed by Villanova, at 13, Monmouth, at 22, and New Hampshire, which received some votes.
Stony Brook had one of the most unexpected seasons last year and it was one of the biggest turnarounds in FCS history. The year prior the Wolves went 0-10, but last season with a new head coach and new direction they were able to win eight games.
Billy Cosh, who is the secondyoungest head coach in Division I football, was named CAA Coach of the Year and became just the second rookie head coach to earn AFCA National Coach of the Year honors.
Offensively, Stony Brook literally doubled their offensive production improving from 15 points per game in 2023 to 30 in 2024. They also had a big increase
in total yards and rushing. They more than doubled up their total TDs with just 19 touchdowns in 2023 to 44 scores last season.
Defensively, the Seawolves also saw a big improvement as they cut their points allowed from 39 to 24 per game. Their yards per game decreased by almost 100 yards and they gave up 32 touchdowns compared to 53 in 2023.
Stony Brook returns several key contributors on both sides of the ball, including All-American running back Roland Dempster, offensive linemen Niko Papic and Kollin Melendez, wide receivers Jayce Freeman and Dez Williams, tight end Cole
Mets Honor Suffolk Officer
ByTomBarton
Suffolk County Police Officer
Brendon Gallagher threw out the first pitch at Citi Field on this weekend when the New York Mets took on the Seattle Mariners.
Earlier this year, Officer Gallagher suffered lifethreatening injuries in an onduty motor vehicle crash. The 35-year-old was greeted with a loud ovation as he threw the ceremonial pitch, as many in attendance knew of his story. Gallagher's tale is one that any family of a police officer fear. Back in January during a traffic stop near Exit 55 on the Long Island Expressway he was struck by an oncoming car. In Brentwood Gallagher gave chase
to a Ford Mustang, allegedly driven by 29-year-old Cody Fisher. The car was driving nearly 100 mph and Fisher lost control of the car, sideswiping Gallagher’s patrol SUV.
The vehicle was upside down and finally came to a stop after hitting into a tree. Gallagher was trapped inside the car for more than a half hour and bleeding, before being pulled out. He was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital and things looked bleak.
He spent weeks in the hospital but was able to recover in what doctors deemed “miraculous.” That was not the first time miraculous and Gallagher have been used in the same breath.
Gallagher a U.S. Army veteran was also involved in
an on duty, near-death incident when he survived a stabbing in 2022 responding to a call in Medford. That time he was also released from Stony Brook University Hospital after being
stabbed while responding to a call about an argument between roommates. He was stabbed in the chest clear through his bulletproof vest and the vest saved his heart and his life.
The Suffolk County Police Department said, "Officer Gallagher is well on the road to recovery and we wish him continued progress!"
Stony Brook's Gilardi Helps Team USA Beat Canada
ByTomBarton
This week two of Stony Brook University's own faced off in the 2025 World Lacrosse Men’s U20 Championship.
Head coach Anthony Gilardi, who was named coach of Team USA faced off against Brendan Marino, from Team Canada.
Gilardi and Team USA took down Canada in a hotly contested battle, winning 7-6.
Team USA lead 3-1 after one and 6-3 heading into the third but had to stave off a furious ending by Team Canada to secure the pool win. Team USA won the faceoff battle, had just one turnover, while causing three and had 16 shots on goal to Canada's 13.
Stony Brook men's lacrosse head coach Anthony Gilardi was named to the coaching staff of the U.S. Men's U20 National Team. The team is playing in Seogwipo, South Korea. When he was chosen Gilardi said, "There is no higher honor than representing your country. I am really looking forward to the opportunity to wear the red, white and blue with a great coaching staff."
Gilardi has been at the helm at Stony Brook for years and guided the Seawolves to the CAA
Championship Game in 2023, the squad's inaugural season as a member of the league.
Gilardi previously served as an assistant coach at the United States Naval Academy, Ohio State and Denison. He helped Navy and Ohio State reach the NCAA Tournament during his time as an assistant.
The United States is aiming for a 10th consecutive world championship. The U.S. has won the gold medal in each of the previous nine versions of this event, which has been played at U19 and U21 over that span.
The Canadian rivalry has been a tough one for Team USA, despite their successes. In 2012 in Finland, the U.S. lost pool play games to both Canada and the Iroquois before rallying to beat both in the medal round. In 2016, the U.S. trailed host Canada 8-2 at the half before rallying for a wild 13-12 victory. In 2022, the U.S. led by just a goal with over two minutes to play before edging Canada 12-10 in Ireland.
Canada has won the silver medal at the last six championships and has medaled in all nine championships with seven silver medals and two bronze.
Bunicci, defensive linemen Sebastian Regis and Rodney Faulk, linebackers AJ Roberts
and Anthony Ferrelli, kicker Enda Kirby, and punter Clayton Taylor.
