The South Shore Press 9/10/25

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: George W. Bush Library

From the

NEWSROOM

BY STEFAN MYCHAJLIW

Most of this year’s college graduates were born in 2003— two years after the tragic attacks of 9/11, when terrorists hijacked planes and murdered thousands of innocent souls in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in a quiet field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Nearly 3,000 lives were stolen that day.

And the toll did not stop there. According to the World Trade Center Health Program, nearly 50,000 first responders who rushed to help in the aftermath have since been diagnosed with cancer. Their sacrifice continues to exact a devastating price, decades later. The pain—physical, emotional, spiritual—still echoes through the lives of those who were there.

The grief of survivors and families of the fallen will never truly fade. Their burden will remain until their last breaths on this earth.

Twenty-four years later, the horror of America’s darkest day still reverberates. The memories of the

brave souls we lost must live on— not just for those who were there, but for generations who were not yet born.

For those of us old enough to remember, the terrible images of September 11, 2001, are seared into our minds forever.

I was an investigative journalist at the NBC affiliate in Buffalo on the one-year anniversary of 9/11. Along with a photojournalist, I spent a week in and around Ground Zero, sharing the stories of families who had lost loved ones.

By then, “The Pit” no longer resembled twisted steel and smoldering ruins. Instead, it was a barren dirt foundation, framed by scaffolding and a long ramp where families and dignitaries walked down to pay tribute.

What I will never forget is a woman sitting on the sidewalk near where the Twin Towers once stood. She sat with her head in her hands, sobbing uncontrollably—her raw grief pouring out for the world to

ByTheresaPuzio

On March 12, 2023, my son Nicholas John Puzio, 25, was hit in a crosswalk by two hitand-run drivers. The actions of these reckless drivers led to, and ultimately caused, his death. Both drivers left him in the street to die, with no regard for human life.

How does someone hit a human being and drive away, and then just go on with their life as if nothing happened? Where is the humanity?

Nicholas did not deserve such careless, indignant treatment. Nick was someone who loved his life. Nick loved his family and friends. Nick had a huge personality that lit up every room he entered. Nick was a hard worker. Nick had so much to live for; he was taken away from us too soon.

Never Forget

see. More than 20 years later, I still remember only two things about her: her dark hair, her white blouse. And her sobs. Her gut-wrenching,

soul-shaking sobs.

So many of us share memories like these. We remember exactly where we were when the planes hit.

Fighting for Nick's Law: A Mother's Plea

Losing my son has been the single most unimaginable loss I could ever endure, and we are all learning to try and live through it. Sometimes I do not know how I will get through the days without seeing or hearing my son ever again. No parent should ever have

to see their child die. As a parent, my worst nightmare happened.

Santo and I, his brother and sister, family, and friends, will never be the same. All of our lives have forever been changed. Nick’s life is over. We are now left to figure out how to live life without him. The world was a happier place with Nick in it. He was always laughing and joking around.

Nick was a pure soul who would help anyone who needed it, no questions asked. I looked forward to his calls every day. I knew he would say, “I love you, Ma!” He never missed a day.

Saying I miss him doesn’t begin to describe the immense pain I feel. There truly are no words to describe this feeling. Our souls are truly shattered. Nick was a

Where we were when the Towers fell. Who we knew that never came home.

But what about those who came after? What about the college seniors born after September 11, 2001?

Who will carry the memories forward for them? Who will tell them who the victims were, why our nation was attacked, how we responded, and how we rebuilt on that sacred ground?

We must. Those of us who remember.

It is our sacred duty to honor the dead, to share their stories, and to ensure that future generations understand the cost of freedom. We owe it to the fallen to never forget— and to remain vigilant against the evil that still threatens us.

We owe them everything. Their sacrifice demands our memory, our vigilance, and our resilience as a nation.

Never forget. Never again.

true blessing. If you knew Nick personally, you know his energy was infectious.

We can’t change what happened to Nick on that day, but we can change the laws in New York to

hopefully change the mindset of people leaving the scene when they hit someone. They could have helped him. I will never understand this.

Credit: Stefan Mychajliw

American Flag Outside a Tunnel to Towers Foundation Run

Continued on page 6

Theresa Puzio remembers her son, Nick, at the blood drive and ceremony pushing for the passage of Nick’s Law.

Nick Puzio

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: Puzio Family EDITORIAL

ByRobertChartuk

Rocky Point VFW Marks 9/11 Anniversary with Message of Unity: ‘Never Forget’

With solemn words, shared memories, and a theme of unity, the Fischer Hewins VFW Post 6249 hosted its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony, paying tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost 24 years ago and honoring the lasting sacrifices of those who responded.

Local residents, first responders, veterans, and elected officials gathered at the post, reflecting on how the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, forever changed the nation—and how, for a brief time, Americans stood together as one.

“This country felt the major sting of terrorism that day,” said military historian and teacher Rich Acritelli, the event organizer who served as a staff sergeant in both the Army Reserves and the New York Air National Guard. “On a sunny morning, as citizens went about their daily routines of putting children on buses and heading to work, America was permanently changed.”

“These were our neighbors,” Acritelli said. “Their names are etched in Rocky Point’s memory, a reminder that even in a small town 70 miles from Manhattan, the impact of 9/11 was deeply personal.”

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon reflected on the unity that defined the period after 9/11. “What impressed me the most was in the days and weeks that followed, everyone was an American,” Toulon said. “We have lost that over the last several years, and we have to get that back. We are still all Americans.”

Former Major League ballplayer Frank Tepedino, a Rocky Point resident and a member of the Fire Patrol, responded to Ground Zero.

Acritelli reminded those gathered of the local connections to the tragedy. Three Rocky Point High School graduates—Samantha and Lisa Egan and Joanne Ahladiotis— were among the 658 Cantor Fitzgerald employees killed in the North Tower. Another graduate, NYPD Emergency Services Unit Officer Michael S. Curtin, died while ensuring fellow officers evacuated before the building collapsed. His remains were not recovered for months, and his heroism was later recognized with a 9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor from President George W. Bush.

“The heroes are the ones who put their lives on the line to save others,” Tepedino said. “We were strong, we were Americans, we cared about each other.”

Suffolk Legislator Chad Lennon, a Marine veteran, recalled watching the attacks unfold from his dorm at Wagner College. “Let’s never forget the people who went running into danger,” Lennon said. “It takes a special person to do this.”

Also attending the ceremony was Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner, who noted, “All of the speakers were very elegant in sharing what America went through that day. The Rocky Point community was hit very hard by the tragedy. It is important that we never forget.”

Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio noted how the country changed: “There was a big difference between September 11 and September 12 when we all came together to help our neighbors and our country. Let’s remember that every day.”

Acritelli traced the broad national changes that followed— airport security, bag checks at sporting events, the creation of the Department of Homeland

Security—and the emotional toll that stretched from Manhattan to the suburbs of Long Island. “From Montauk to Huntington, there are streets, buildings, and parks renamed after Suffolk residents who were lost,” he said. “It was essentially one of the longest days in American history.”

He was joined at the ceremony by Post Commander Frank Lombardi, Vietnam Veteran Joe Cognitore, Bernie Furshpan with the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County, Scouts of Rocky Point Troop 244, and Mike Finnican and Jim Weeden

get everyone out knowing he would not make it out himself,” Finnican said.

Despite the years that have passed, Acritelli said the lesson of 9/11 is as urgent as ever. “The message of this ceremony is simple: Never forget,” he said. “Never forget the innocent lives taken, never forget the bravery of those who ran toward danger, and never forget the unity that made us stronger as a nation.”

Annual Nick Puzio Blood Drive Highlights Urgent Need for Safer Roads

ByRobertChartuk

A dedicated circle of family, friends, and officials came together this weekend for the 3rd Annual Nick Puzio Blood Drive, honoring the life of a young man whose death at the hands of hitand-run drivers has galvanized a push for tougher traffic safety laws. Along with collecting lifesaving blood donations, the event doubled as a rallying call for “Nick’s Law,” legislation aimed at strengthening penalties for drivers who flee fatal crashes.

State and county leaders joined with advocates and victims’ families, underscoring the urgency of reform as traffic deaths from drunk, drugged, and reckless driving continue to climb in New York.

“As we gather to collect muchneeded donations of blood in honor of Nick Puzio, we are also pushing for passage of much-needed, common-sense legislation aimed at making New York’s roads safer for drivers and pedestrians,” said Senator Dean Murray, sponsor of Nick’s Law.

For the Puzio family, the drive was both a tribute and a painful reminder. Nick’s mother, Terry Puzio, said her son’s killers received minimal punishment, a reality she called unacceptable.

“My son Nick was killed by two hit-and-run drivers. Both drivers made reckless choices and left my son dying in the street with no regard for human life. The laws in New York State are far too lenient,” Puzio said.

“Unfortunately, due to these laws, both of the people who killed my son spent less than five months in jail. People cannot just get a slap on the wrist and go on with their lives. Nick can’t go on with his life, and all our lives will never be the same.”

Legislators say Nick’s Law would close that gap by imposing harsher penalties for leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death.

“Nick Puzio’s life was cut tragically short while simply crossing the street. His family— and our community—deserve

better than the slap on the wrists his killers received,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, a co-sponsor of the bill. “Nick’s Law will make sure that fleeing the scene while impaired carries real consequences, because no family should ever endure what the Puzios and others have suffered.”

Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio referred to the broader trend of rising hit-and-run fatalities and called the situation a crisis. “We are witnessing a troubling spike in hit-and-run fatalities and impaired driving arrests. This is not a statistic, it’s a public safety crisis,” Giglio said. “Passing Nick’s Law and the Deadly Driving Bill in the next legislative session is essential. These bills will strengthen accountability for reckless drivers and deliver safer

streets for all New Yorkers.”

District Attorney Ray Tierney said the problem is compounded by loopholes in state law that create incentives for impaired drivers to flee the scene of a crash.

“Too many people die every year on New York State’s roadways, and it is only getting worse,” Tierney said. “New York State is failing to keep people safe from drugged and drunk drivers or to adequately address the drivers who can hide their conditions by callously leaving victims of a crash to die. Legislative leaders need to pass the Deadly Driving Bill to fix drugged driving and remove the incentive for drivers to flee by raising the charges for hit-andruns. It’s common sense. The status quo is not working.”

The event also highlighted the toll impaired driving has taken on other families. Alisa McMorris, whose 12-yearold son Andrew was killed by a drunk driver, said laws must change to prevent future tragedies.

“His death was not an accident—it was 100% preventable. That truth will haunt me for the rest of my life,” McMorris said. “We owe it to Andrew, and to every life lost, to make our vehicular crime laws tougher so no other parent has to live this nightmare.”

Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa said community solidarity remains strong in the wake of such loss. “As a community, we continue to mourn the loss of Nick Puzio. And as a community, we will continue to stand together with Nick’s family and support this blood drive as we will continue to support the passage of Nick’s Law,” said Caracappa, whose district includes the Farmingville Fire Department where the event was held. “Nick’s family deserves this, other families will benefit from this, and our community will always be here to support this initiative.”

from the 3256 Foundation, named from the badge number of Sergeant Curtin. “He stayed in that tower to

Participants in the Rocky Point 9/11 ceremony.

The circle of family, friends, and officials who came together for the 3rd Annual Nick Puzio Blood Drive.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: Robert Chartuk

ByDeborahWilliams

Special Recycling Event in Brookhaven

Do you have piles of paper, old electronic devices, or out-of-date prescription drugs–especially opiates that need to be disposed of safely and securely? How about rechargeable batteries you no longer use? Well, now is the time to clean house and do it in compliance with the law.

The Town of Brookhaven is holding the next Special Recycling event Saturday, September 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bayport-Blue Point Public Library located at 186 Middle Road in Blue Point.

E-Waste, Paper Shredding and Drug Take Back events are for residents to safely dispose of unused electronic devices, have their old paper documents securely shredded and to safely dispose of old prescription drugs. Cardboard recycling will also be available at each event.

Call 631-451-8696 for more

information.

The sponsors of the Town event are: Suffolk Credit Union, Gershow Recycling, Maggio Environmental, and Winters Bros, a WM Company, for supporting these events.

Electronics Recycling

New York State (NYS) mandates that residents may not place electronic waste at the curb for pickup. New York State law now requires manufacturers to take responsibility for recycling of electronic equipment that they produce. Manufacturers must provide free and convenient acceptance programs for NYS consumers to properly reuse and recycle their waste electronic equipment.

Residents can recycle their intact electronic items at the Brookhaven Town Landfill, Monday through Saturday during its operating hours or contact your local retailer to see if they offer any take-back programs.

Components will be separated into reusable metals, plastics, glass and chemical recyclables. Note: volume accepted must be indicative to residential use. The town has the authority to limit volume and/or reject acceptance of material.

Rechargeable Battery Disposal Ban

New York State law bans disposal of rechargeable batteries in your regular trash at any time anywhere in the state.

The law requires businesses who sell rechargeable batteries to collect and recycle the batteries statewide in a manufacturer-funded program at no cost to consumers.

Retailers shall take up to ten such batteries per day from any person regardless of whether such person purchases replacement batteries.

Most rechargeable batteries contain toxic metals that can be released into the environment

when improperly disposed. These batteries should not be placed in the garbage. Residents may bring these batteries to the Hazardous Waste (STOP) Facility at the Town Landfill or dispose of them through a retailer.

Batteries covered by the new law: Nickel-cadmium, Sealed lead, Lithium, Ion, Nickel metal hydride,

any other such dry cell battery capable of being recharged, battery packs containing any of the abovementioned batteries.

Dates and Times

View 2025 Special Recycling Event Schedule. To be notified about the schedule, sign up for e-mail alerts at BrookhavenNY. gov/NotifyMe.

Brookhaven Public Libraries Unite for a Town-Wide Celebration

ByDeborahWilliams

The Town of Brookhaven Town Clerk Kevin LaValle announced the Brookhaven Town Public Libraries Expo, taking place on Saturday, September 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Brookhaven Town Hall (One Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738).

This exciting, free, first-ofits-kind event is a collaborative effort between all 13 public libraries serving the residents of Brookhaven Town.

“I’m incredibly proud to bring together all 13 of Brookhaven’s public libraries under one roof,”

said Clerk Kevin LaValle. “This event is about celebrating the powerful role libraries play in shaping our communities, whether that’s through education, technology, or connection.”

The Brookhaven Town Public Libraries Expo will highlight the vast resources, state-of-the-art technology, and diverse services available through local libraries, showing that they are much more than simple book repositories. Today, libraries have transformed into vibrant centers of innovation, creativity, and opportunities, keeping up with modern trends while continuing to promote

lifelong learning and empower the communities they serve.

Event Highlights Include:

• Cutting-Edge Technology Demonstrations: Get hands-on experience with 3D printers, Cricut machines, sublimation printing, and other maker technologies used for crafting, prototyping, and creating personalized items.

• School, Career, and Job Support: Learn about homework help programs, tutoring services, resume workshops, job search databases, and continuing education opportunities designed to support students and adults alike as they prepare for academic success and career growth.

• Interactive Exhibits: Explore engaging displays featuring robotics, coding, local history,

knitting and crocheting, virtual reality experiences, and even a mobile planetarium.

• Giveaways, Crafts, and More: Enjoy family-friendly fun activities including giveaways, take-home crafts, and a chance to connect with your local library in a whole new way.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Most Heavily Traveled Roadway in Brookhaven Town Resurfaced

ByDeborahWilliams

Heavily traveled Old Town Road has a brand-new and safer surface as part of the entire roadway, sidewalk, and drainage project.

Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro announced the resurfacing of a 4.2-mile stretch of Old Town Road from New York State Route 112 in Coram to New York State Route 347/Nesconset Highway in Terryville.

The reconstruction of this roadway, which involved the installation of contiguous sidewalk along the entire 4.2mile stretch, began last year and was completed in June. In addition to the sidewalk, crews removed and replaced approximately 10,000 linear feet of concrete curb and 6,885 square feet of aprons; installed new drainage; and put retaining walls in place to widen the roadway due to terrain features.

The cost for all concrete and

drainage work was $3.5 million.

The resurfacing of Old Town Road–which was completed overnight to be as minimally disruptive to motorists as possible–required more than 16,000 tons of asphalt.

The total cost for this paving project was approximately $5.5 million, which was offset by a $1.6-million New York State Department of Transportation grant.

“This project is a prime example of the Vision Zero program we are undertaking in the Town of Brookhaven,” said Losquadro, noting the program’s goal is to have no fatalities or major injuries on Town roadways by 2035. “We now have contiguous sidewalk and pedestrian and bicycle safety throughout this entire 4.2-mile corridor, which is the most heavily traveled road in our Town inventory.”

Brookhaven libraries are having an EXPO!

Special Town Recycling Event

Credit: Grok/Twitter

Credit: Town of Brookhaven

Credit: Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro Superintendent Losquadro at the intersection of Old Town Road and North Bicycle Path.

ByRobertChartuk

Smith Point Bridge 5K Run for Literacy Draws Record Crowd

With the Atlantic Ocean and Fire Island’s white sand beaches as a breathtaking backdrop, more than 500 runners laced up for the 24th Annual Smith Point Bridge 5K Run for Literacy on Saturday.

Sponsored by the MasticsMoriches-Shirley Community Library, the event combined athletic achievement with a commitment to education, raising funds for literacy initiatives that will ripple throughout the community.

This year’s race drew 527 finishers, a record turnout in the event’s two-decade history. The field was a mix of seasoned competitors, student-athletes, families, and local residents running in memory of loved ones or supporting the literacy mission.

“This is more than a race— it’s a celebration of community, of our natural beauty here at Smith Point, and of the power of education,” said Race Coordinator Lindsay Davis, head of the library’s Literacy Department.

“Our motto is simple: Education empowers individuals, families, and communities. Every step our

runners take today helps build a stronger future.”

Proceeds from the event benefit three key initiatives: the Family Literacy Project at the Community Library, the Reach Out and Read program at Sun River Health Center, and the William Floyd High School Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund provides critical financial assistance to collegebound students, while Reach Out and Read places new books in the hands of young children during pediatric visits, helping parents build early literacy skills at home.

Julia Mastrup of Shirley led the women’s field with a time of 21:57, running as part of the William Floyd United Teachers team. The men’s division was dominated by Vidal Macchia, also of Shirley, who crossed the line in 16:22. The Macchia family has become something of a dynasty at Smith Point, with Vidal’s sister, Zariel, having won the race in recent years before heading off to compete at Brigham Young University as one of the top female athletes Suffolk has ever produced.

“This race is about community

pride and perseverance,” Davis said. “Seeing the Macchias carry that torch as both student-athletes and leaders has been inspiring.”

Next year’s race will carry added significance, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and the nation’s 250th birthday. Organizers say they plan to honor both milestones while continuing to expand the event’s impact.

Fifty-seven local sponsors, including Flushing Bank, New York State United Teachers, Searles Graphics, Sunrise Wind, and the Haugland Group, powered the event.

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, our volunteers, and the countless friends and families who come back year after year,” said Davis. “This race is only possible because of them.”

Four students from William Floyd High School sang the national anthem to kick off the opening ceremony: Janelly Bednarek, Kiya Cuevas, Kat Fantini, and Shirley Galindo Jeronimo. Performax Physical Therapy and Wellness offered a post-race "Stretch Station" and the Suffolk County Radio Club provided communication assistance along the race course.

About 30 runners from Rolling Thunder Special Needs Team under coach Steve Cuomo also

participated, as did the William Floyd Girls and Boys track teams and Islip School District track team. Teen volunteers from Colonial Youth and Family Services helped give out water to runners at the Mile 2 Water Table, Davis noted.

Organizers also credited the Mastic Beach Fire Department and Ambulance Company, as well as the Suffolk Police 7th Precinct and Park Rangers, for keeping participants safe along the course.

Among the cheering crowd at the finish line were Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Legislator Jim Mazzarella, both longtime supporters of the race.

“Events like this remind us what makes Suffolk County strong— our commitment to family, education, and community,” Romaine said. “The Smith Point Bridge Run is a highlight of the year, and the funds raised make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Mazzarella, whose district includes the Smith Point area, praised the library’s leadership. “This run is about more than fitness. It’s about investing in our children, supporting our teachers, and making sure literacy thrives in every household,” he said. “The record turnout today shows just how deeply our residents care.”

Families Reel in Fun at Mastic Beach Snapper Derby

ByRobertChartuk

“Let's fish,” exclaimed Legislator Jim Mazzarella at the Snapper Derby hosted Saturday by the Mastic Beach Property Owners and the Mastic Beach Yacht Club. “Kudos to these great organizations that continue to provide fun family activities. We appreciate you.”

The waters around the Mastic Peninsula have long provided a rich bounty of fish and shellfish, dating back to its days as a summer retreat starting in the 1920s.

Efforts are ongoing to protect the area’s natural resources,

including the recently completed Forge River Watershed Sewer District and sewers planned as part of the Beechwood redevelopment of Neighborhood Road. Brookhaven Town and Suffolk County have also made a concerted effort to return the shorelines to their natural state by buying up substandard lots.

“Everyone who grew up here remembers their days of fishing, swimming, boating, and just enjoying the local waters,” said Kevin Collins, Property Owners Association president. “We’re happy to keep those traditions alive.”

Legislator Jim Mazzarella, center, with the members of the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association and Mastic Beach Yacht Club who organized the snapper derby.

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Credit: MMS Library

Credit: MMS Library

Credit: Office of Legislator Jim Mazzarella

ByRobertChartuk

Patchogue Festival Celebrates Saint Liberata with Parade and Feast

The 58th annual Feast of Saint Liberata packed Main Street on Saturday, filling Patchogue Village with food, music, and tradition— and a heartfelt tribute to a hometown hero. This year’s parade and celebration honored Eugene “Gene” Perry, a third-generation Italian American, lifelong Patchogue resident, and president of the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY).

Perry, whose grandfather emigrated from Calabria, Italy, in 1900, has dedicated more than four decades to volunteer firefighting in Patchogue. He joined the Vanguard Hose Company Number One in 1979 and has since risen to lead FASNY, representing 80,000 volunteer firefighters across New York.

“Patchogue is in my blood,” Perry said. “My grandfather came here from Italy with very little, and now, generations later, I get to stand here in this community and be honored. I’m proud to carry forward both my Italian heritage and the tradition of service through firefighting.”

The festival transformed downtown into a lively street fair with vendors, live music, a classic car show, and a bocce tournament. Families enjoyed face painting, a petting zoo, “Touch a Truck” activities on South Ocean Avenue, and free kids’ crafts and cotton candy from the Patchogue-Medford Library. For adults, highlights included the popular Vino in the Village wine walk and a zeppole eating contest.

Legislator Dominick Thorne praised Perry at the event, calling him a model of public service. “Gene Perry has always gone above and beyond the call of duty to safeguard us and assist our first responders,”

Thorne said. “His 45 years of dedication to Patchogue and his leadership at the state level truly embody the spirit of Saint Liberata and the Italian community here.” Assemblyman Joe DeStefano echoed the sentiment: “Gene Perry represents the very best of our community—a man who has dedicated his life to service, both in Patchogue and across New York State. His leadership shows what can be accomplished when

commitment and compassion come together.”

Perry has held leadership positions throughout his career, from the Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen’s Association to the Southern New York Volunteer Firefighters Association.

Beyond his statewide role, Perry remains deeply rooted in his hometown. He served as an emergency services dispatcher in

Patchogue until retiring in 2017 and continues to support the Ridge Fire Museum in Brookhaven. His legacy extends through his family — both of his sons serve in the Brookhaven Fire Department, with Patrick elected as commissioner and Christopher training recruits.

“This community gave so much to my family,” Perry reflected.

“Being able to give back through firefighting and now being honored here at the Feast of Saint Liberata —

it’s something I’ll never forget.”

The Feast, organized by the Italian-American community of Patchogue, has celebrated Saint Liberata since 1923. With the streets alive with music, food, and fellowship, this year’s edition not only carried on a beloved tradition but also spotlighted a local leader whose service has safeguarded communities across Long Island and New York State.

Deputy Sheriffs Rescue Kitten from Storm Drain – Name Him Foley

ByDeborahWilliams

Suffolk County law enforcement is always at the ready for whatever issue comes up–and it’s not always a crime.

The Suffolk County Deputy Sheriff’s along with the Sheriff’s Office’s Emergency Management Section not only rescued a kitten

Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff Office storm drain.

Drain

trapped in a storm drain in Yaphank, but also found him a home.

At approximately 7:40 p.m., during a routine patrol of the John J. Foley Building in Yaphank, a deputy sheriff heard a noise coming from a storm drain outside the building. Upon further investigation it was found to be a kitten trapped in a

Deputy sheriffs along with the Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management Section moved a dumpster covering the storm drain

and pried the drain open to rescue the cat. The kitten was adopted by one of the deputy sheriffs involved in the rescue and has been named “Foley.”

Fighting for Nick's Law...

Continued from page 2

This is really an epidemic on Long Island, and individuals who leave the scene of an accident need to be held accountable. It's unacceptable.

New York needs harsher penalties and sentencing in fatal hit-and-run cases. This can happen to anyone and any family.

This is not a Republican or Democrat issue; this is a humanitarian issue. This is a crisis our society is facing. The laws need to be changed.

The two men who killed Nick got six months in jail and five years' probation. They were out in five and go on with their lives. Does that even seem logical? Where is the justice in this?

There will be no penalty strong enough because we can not undo what has been done. Nick’s death is permanent. Help change these laws!

Nick received blood that day to help try to keep him alive, but his injuries were too severe. Please donate blood in his memory. It will help save lives.

Deputy Sheriff David Clary adopted the kitten and brought it home to his family. The Clary family and Foley the Cat are reported to be very happy with the whole arrangement.

Nick would have been 28 this month. I know he would be so happy that we are trying to change these laws and donate blood in his name. This is his third birthday in heaven. We will celebrate his life. We will keep Nick’s memory alive. Keep saying his name. Nicholas, we will never forget you. Mamma loves you so much. We will all miss you forever. Thank you to everyone who has supported our family. We could not have made it through this without all of you. Thank you.

Feast of Liberata honoree Gene Perry with his wife, Kathryn.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Deputy Sheriffs Rescue Kitten from Storm

ByDeborahWilliams

Suffolk County Girl Scout Receives National Medal of Honor for Heroism

A Suffolk County teen is nationally recognized for lifesaving actions that saved her mother during medical emergency. She is the first Suffolk County Girl Scout in recent memory to receive this extraordinary honor.

Girl Scouts of Suffolk County presented Ambassador Girl Scout Diana Hubschman, 17, a high school junior from Mastic Beach, with the Medal of Honor for her act of bravery that saved her mother’s life, during a special award ceremony. She is the only Suffolk County Girl Scout in recent memory to receive this prestigious national award.

The Medal of Honor is reserved for Girl Scouts who have demonstrated extraordinary heroism, saving or attempting to save a life while exemplifying the values of the Girl Scout Promise and Law.

Diana was recognized for her

extraordinary actions during a family medical emergency, when her mother, Dawn, suffered a sudden and severe cluster of seizures at home on January 27, 2025.

“She wasn’t responsive to me at all,” said Diana. “In between every seizure, instead of there being a break, it was continuous with muscle spasms in between. I knew something was very wrong.”

Diana immediately took control of the crisis: ensuring her grandfather, who was recovering from open-heart surgery, was safe; moving her mother away from danger; crating the family dog to avoid accidents; timing and monitoring her mother’s seizures; rolling her to her side to maintain an open airway; and calling 911 to report that her mother was on her 14th seizure and struggling to breathe.

Diana coordinated with dispatchers, secured care for

her grandfather, and insisted on riding in the ambulance so she could speak on her mother’s behalf when she was unable to do so.

In total, her mother suffered 16 seizures and a stroke within 20 minutes. If not for Diana’s quick and calm actions, it is likely her mother would have died.

“Saying I am proud of her is

not enough,” said her mother, Dawn Hubschman. “I’ve always told her she’s my guardian angel.”

“I think it took until just now for me to realize it was happening,” said Diana about receiving the national award. “This is one of the biggest honors I have ever had. It’s so unreal.”

“We are really thrilled to be able to bestow this,” said Tammy

Severino, President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. “Diana is a future leader and a person who is lighting the torch for future girls to say, ‘that’s who I want to be like.’”

Suffolk County legislator Jim Mazzarella presented a proclamation to Hubschman saying, “At just 17 years old, Diana showed incredible courage and quick thinking earlier this year when she saved her mother’s life during a medical emergency. Her calmness under pressure and selfless actions reflect maturity and strength far beyond her years.”

Mazzarella added, “Diana is a shining example of the Girl Scout mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. Our community is deeply proud of her, and I was humbled to join her family, troop leaders, and fellow Scouts in celebrating this well-deserved honor.”

Potunk Masonic Lodge Prepares for Centennial with Pig Roast and Chicken BBQ

ByRobertChartuk

The Riverhead-Potunk Masonic Lodge is firing up the grills this month, hosting its annual Pig Roast and Chicken BBQ on September 20 at the Riverhead Lodge on Roanoke Avenue. The event is one of the lodge's most popular fundraisers, featuring roasted pork

and barbecued chicken with all the fixings, plus beer, soda, and live music. Tickets are $35 in advance or $45 at the door, with proceeds supporting Maureen’s Haven, a nonprofit that provides shelter and meals for the homeless.

For the brothers of Potunk Lodge, the pig roast is more than

just good food and family fun—it’s a continuation of a tradition that stretches back nearly a century. Since its chartering in 1925, the lodge has brought together Masons from Westhampton, Hampton Bays, and beyond, uniting them in fellowship and community service.

Over the decades, the lodge has hosted everything from parades to golf outings, with proceeds funding

scholarships and supporting local charities.

Today, the lodge focuses on giving back where the need is greatest.

Members regularly prepare hot dinners for Maureen’s Haven guests during the winter months, keeping alive the lodge’s mission of service to neighbors in need.

“This is about more than

barbecue,” said Jim Geiger, lodge secretary. “It’s about carrying forward the same spirit of brotherhood and generosity that built this lodge 100 years ago.”

Next spring, Potunk Lodge will mark its centennial with a rededication ceremony and gala celebration—an opportunity to honor its past while looking to the future.

Why Libraries Are More Than Just Books

Op-edbyJosephFurnari

My name is Joseph Furnari, and I’ve proudly served as a Trustee for the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library since 2019 but my love for libraries started long before that.

As a child, I have fond memories of walking with my mother to the library when our family had just one car. We attended programs, played games, rented movies (yes, that was a thing!), and of course, borrowed books. At the time, I had no idea those simple moments would shape me into who I am today and inspire my desire to serve as a trustee.

Now in this role, I see firsthand the long-term planning, innovative ideas, and trends that make libraries such powerful forces for change. Libraries are our last bastion of democracy—

they push boundaries, sometimes make us uncomfortable, but always remain open to EVERYONE. Whether rich or poor, young or old, the library has something for you. And if your library doesn’t have it? Chances are, they can get it. Libraries are truly the great equalizer.

Of course, libraries still house books but thanks to apps like Libby and Hoopla, you don’t even need to step inside to access them. And while that’s convenient, it also misses the bigger picture: libraries today are so much more than books.

You can get discounted tickets to parks like Adventureland or the Long Island Aquarium, museum passes, and even seasonal spots like Harbes Farm. Libraries lend laptops, Wi-Fi hotspots for travel, and provide access to

streaming apps. More than that, many libraries are becoming true community centers featuring theaters, music halls, and even coffee shops.

And that’s just the beginning. These services, programs, and resources exist because of thoughtful planning, funding, and hard work all so the community can benefit. The best part? You already pay for it with your taxes, so why not use it?

All it takes is a visit to your local library. Ask a reference librarian, explore what’s available, and I guarantee your life will change for the better.

Because at the end of the day, the library is for everyone. All you have to do is walk in and let your imagination soar.

Discover. Learn. Belong.

Dawn Hubschman, Tammy Severino, Diana Hubschman celebrating the honor.

Credit: Girl Scouts of Suffolk County

ByRobertChartuk

Potunk Masonic Lodge Prepares to Celebrate 100 Years of Brotherhood and Community Service

Nearly a century ago, a handful of Masons from Westhampton, Hampton Bays, and the surrounding hamlets grew weary of the long and sometimes risky trek to Riverhead for their lodge meetings. In 1924, they petitioned the Grand Lodge of New York for their own charter. The following spring, Potunk Lodge No. 1071 was born, carrying forward a local tradition of fellowship and service that continues to this day.

Next April, Potunk Lodge will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a full weekend of events, including a rededication ceremony at the Westhampton lodge building and a gala dinner at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck in Center Moriches. Lodge officers expect as many as 100 members, dignitaries, and friends to attend.

“It’s a major milestone,” said Jim Geiger, Potunk Lodge’s secretary and a 32-year member. “The Grand Master and officers from New York City will be here to rededicate our building, and we’ll gather to honor those who built this lodge and kept it strong for generations.”

Potunk Lodge’s first home was Mechanics Hall in Westhampton Beach, a modest upstairs meeting room with pressed copper ceiling tiles still etched with Masonic emblems. “It was too small, and parking was a problem,” Geiger recalled. By the late 1960s, the growing membership secured land across from what is now the Westhampton Community Church on Montauk Highway, thanks to a donation from member Marshall Jagger.

Construction of the new lodge was a community effort, led by members of the Rump family— Artie, Ray, Bob, and others— who supplied the labor and craftsmanship. The cornerstone ceremony in 1968 was attended by Grand Lodge officials, and the building has served the brothers of Potunk ever since.

“My dad and uncles were right there swinging hammers,” said Tim Rumph, whose father helped raise the structure. “It was a big undertaking, but that’s what Masons did—they built something lasting together.”

For generations, Potunk Lodge has hosted everything from parades to pig roasts, using the proceeds to support local families and charities. In earlier days, the lodge partnered with the traveling circus—complete with PT Barnum, himself a Mason—for festive processions through Westhampton Beach.

In recent decades, members have organized golf outings that fund scholarships for students at Hampton Bays, Westhampton, Eastport-South Manor, and Center Moriches. For 25 years, the scholarship carried the Sinnickson name, honoring beloved lodge member Thomas D. Sinnickson.

Today, Potunk focuses its efforts on Maureen’s Haven, the Riverheadbased nonprofit that provides

shelter and meals for the homeless during the winter months. Lodge members prepare hot dinners at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Hampton Bays once a month from October through April, ensuring 30 guests leave with both a meal and leftovers for the next day.

“It’s about giving back, the same way the founding members did 100 years ago,” Geiger said. Many members, Geiger noted, were deeply rooted in the community— businessmen, veterans, and craftsmen who left their mark in ways both practical and symbolic.

One was Michael A. Chartuk, a Navy veteran from Center Moriches, who served as a Mason for 70 years.

A lodge treasure illustrates another story: ceremonial staffs topped with ornate metalwork

were hand-forged by a brother who owned a lawn mower repair shop.

“He made them out of old lawn mower blades,” Geiger said. “We still use them today, and they’ve lasted almost a century.”

As the centennial approaches, members are focused on the future.

“When I joined, I was the youngest guy in the room,” Rumph said.

“Now I’m one of the oldest. We want to bring in new members, young people who can carry the torch for the next 100 years.”

For Potunk Lodge, the April celebration is not only about looking back, but also about setting a course forward. “This lodge was built on brotherhood, on service, and on being part of something bigger than yourself,” Geiger said. “That’s as important now as it was in 1924.”

Family Continues Mister Softee Legacy in Center Moriches

and Antonio

ByRobertChartuk

at their new Mr. Softee shop in Center Moriches.

Long Islanders have a new reason to indulge in summer treats: Antonio and John Guler of Shirley are opening their first brickand-mortar Mister Softee store on Montauk Highway in Center Moriches.

Antonio, 26, co-owns the store with his brother John, 31, while his wife, Arianna, helps with the family operation. The couple met while working at Savarona’s Pizzeria in Shirley, and together they have three young children, who Antonio jokes might “grow up with ice cream in their veins.”

“I’ve been dreaming about this location for three years,” Antonio said. “It was such a popular shop before, with lines sometimes stretching to the street. Now we’ll have customers coming inside, making everything faster and more comfortable.”

The store will feature classic Mister Softee soft serve, as well as hard-scooped ice cream, shakes, sundaes, and Italian ices. Seasonal and specialty flavors will include pumpkin spice for Halloween and green ice cream for St. Patrick’s Day, in time for Center Moriches’s huge annual parade.

Beaming with Bellport Pride: Local HS Senior Named 'Ex Officio' Board Member

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

With school back in session, the South Country Central School District Board of Education has wasted no time in appointing a new student ex officio for the 2025-2026 school year.

Bellport High School senior Madison Artura replaces Lauren La Grega on the board. “I hope to make connections with the administration and the board and ensure that all student voices are heard,” she said.

A nonvoting member, Artura is still permitted to act as an ambassadorial insert for the student body, on whom she will provide reports at each board meeting.

Superintendent Antonio Santana welcomed Artura on behalf of the district: “We look forward to working with her to

amplify our students’ voices.”

This is not the first time Artura has taken on noteworthy leadership roles. She served as class president at each stopgap through her first three years of high school, and was just selected to serve a fourth and final term from this point on through until graduation in June 2026.

In addition to student council, Artura runs for the cross-country and track teams. She also manages the Clipper Sports Network Instagram account.

The aspiring English teacher aims to study secondary education at St. Joseph’s College come this time next year.

Arianna

Guler

Credit: Robert Chartuk

The Potunk Lodge at its dedication 100 years ago and how it stands today.

The Potunk Lodge at its dedication 100 years ago and how it stands today.

Credit: Potunk Lodge/Robert Chartuk

Credit: Potunk Lodge/Robert Chartuk

Credit: South Country Central School District

Bellport High School senior Madison Aruta was recently appointed as the South Country School District Board of Education’s ex officio board member.

LOCAL

ByRobertChartuk

Knights of Columbus Launch Food Drive and Raffle to Support Local Families

The Shrine of St. Jude’s Council of the Knights of Columbus will hold a series of food drives this fall at the King Kullen supermarket in Shirley to help neighbors in need.

Collections will take place on Saturdays, September 13 and 20, and again on October 11 and 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Knights will be on hand to gather donations of nonperishable food items and personal care products. All contributions

will be delivered to St. Jude’s Food Pantry, where they will be distributed to families across the community.

In addition to the food drive, the council will conduct its annual New York State Council Charitable and Benevolent Program raffle. The raffle features 13 prizes, ranging from $25,000 to $1,000. Proceeds support a wide range of charitable efforts, including the Special Olympics, disaster relief, Catholic school scholarships,

after-pregnancy support programs, food assistance, and the Coats for Kids initiative.

“This effort reflects the core value of charity at the heart of the Knights of Columbus,” said Grand Knight Joseph Spinks. “We’re committed to serving our neighbors and uplifting those who need it most.”

The Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal order founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, is built on the principles of charity,

unity, and fraternity. Today, the organization has grown into a worldwide brotherhood of Catholic men who live their faith through service in their homes, parishes, workplaces, and communities.

For more information about the Knights of Columbus, the Charitable and Benevolent Program, and upcoming food drives, contact Grand Knight Joseph Spinks at 631-338-3393 or jhspinks@yahoo.com.

To the Replay Booth We Go: 'Caught Stealing' Is a Killer CrimeComedy-Thriller

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

From the twisted prestige maker of “Black Swan” and “mother!” comes a crime caper with equal punch lines and bloodshed.

Disney product-turnedTarantino and Ari Asterapproved Austin Butler plays a former baseball prodigy who never blossomed due to a traumatizing mistake he can’t shake, in dreams and in general.

The dirty water dog-bathed slums of late 1990s Brooklyn serve as Butler’s waystation ‘till oblivion stomping grounds. Asked one day to cat-sit for his London Town-bound punk neighbor, hijinks subsequently ensue when he’s embroiled in drug warfare to the tune of a $4-million score.

Liev Schreiber and Vincent D’Onofrio linger then pounce loud as downright evil Hassidics who ironically honor more Shabbas-enforced etiquette than you’d expect from a pair of coldblooded murderers. Bad Bunny also pops up as one of the ranking members of another gang of unruly hooligans committed to making Butler’s life hell on earth.

Zoë Kravitz establishes early kinetics and connectivity as the

on-screen paramedic mate of the bartending Butler, who, after garnering an Oscar nomination for losing himself, accent and all, as “Elvis,” reins in a more grounded, feet-planted-on-realground performance.

He’s nevertheless captivating here, Aronofsky deploying his recurring director of photography Matthew Libatique to mimic frame schematics found in Safdie Brothers films such as “Good Time” or “Uncut Gems.”

Chasing stakes with arousing, air-supplying irreverence sends Aronofsky into a Scorseseian level of directorial maturity given his career arc, where he doesn’t have to exclusively shock and awe; you can run narratively wild without going too big or weird, “Caught Stealing” confirms. Moreover, he’s clearly having just as much of a ball as he ever has, running a self-assured, tonal balancing act.

Meanwhile, as the seasoned veteran Aronofsky took a healthy dose of preparatory hacks from the on-deck circle, author Charlie Huston cracked the adaptation of his same-named novel out of the park with Stantonian aplomb, thereby teeing up his teammate to experience much of the same

fortune result-wise when it was his turn to bat.

So what if the four-bagger may not have traveled as far as Huston’s, or even Aronofsky’s own previous work? In baseball, in film, and in life—a homer is a homer.

As much as he with the devastation and drug-infused “Requiem for a Dream” and budgetarily revolutionized the high-impact, existential sci-fi subgenre with “The Fountain,” sometimes the masses just want to go to the movies and catch a quality flick.

He’s directed the likes of Ellen Burstyn, Mickey Rourke, Marisa

Tomei, Natalie Portman and Brendan Fraser—to Academy Award nominations, with the latter-most winning for the stageplay-adapted “The Whale.”

Oscars probably won’t be won for this one, but before a repeat viewing—and you best believe there will be several—it just might be my favorite Aronofsky yet. Something about an auteur sending off the surroundings that colored their youth has me hooked, line and sinker when it’s pulled off with true romance and unbridled interrogation.

It’s a shame we may never get to see a Superman movie from the same mind that thought

up “Pi” and big-screen realized “Noah.” We were actually pretty close to getting a Wolverine vehicle by his cinematic claws once upon a time. Alas, this is no superhero movie—though a fun ending and credits sequence may suggest otherwise.

Rather, it’s super-entertaining popcorn fodder that had this Yankee fan disappointed when the Mets’ former Shea Stadium headquarters was teased but not recreated in large.

Before I go: Did anyone else split-second think that was Sandy Koufax comparing Batting Cage Butler to Gil Hodges? I’ll hang up and listen.

Connetquot Welcomes Students Back for the 2025-26 School Year

ByDeborahWilliams

It’s all smiles as students flock back to school in the Connetquot Central School District.

The District welcomed students back to school on Sept. 2, marking the official start of the 2025-2026 academic year. Excitement and energy filled the hallways as buses arrived, and students reconnected

with classmates and teachers. Administrators, faculty and staff were on hand to greet students with warm smiles and help ease the transition into a new year of learning.

With a continued focus on academic achievement, social-emotional wellness and inclusive learning, the district looks forward to a successful year ahead.

Credit: Connetquot Central School District

Credit: Connetquot Central School District

Students in the Connetquot Central School District returned to school excited for the year ahead.

Students in the Connetquot Central School District returned to school excited for the year ahead.

Not only is 'Caught Stealing' currently in theaters, it's also led to an increase in 'Black and White' cookie sales...probably.

Credit: Knights of Columbus

Credit: Picasa/Sony Pictures

Eastport-South Manor Welcomes New Faculty

The Eastport-South Manor Central School District held a two-day orientation for new faculty prior to the start of the 2025-2026 school year.

ByDeborahWilliams

Eastport-South Manor Central School District welcomed new faculty during a two-day orientation, held at Dayton Avenue School on Aug. 27 and 28.

During his introductory remarks, Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel described the relationship between administration and faculty as a “team.” He said, “We will turn over every stone to make you feel successful.”

Assistant Superintendent for

Personnel and Employee Relations

Thomas Fabian explained the district’s mission and core values and offered tips to succeed. “We are excited for the impact you will make and know that I am always here to support you,” he said.

The orientation agenda included discussions about curriculum, instruction and special education, as well as a lengthy overview of the district’s Leader in Me curriculum. The faculty also received their Chromebooks and discussed pertinent technology.

The district welcomes:

Opened Up Their Eager

Eyes:

School Time

Once Again in South Country

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

A day after Labor Day, spirits were nothing but high for South Country School District students; from the entering kindergartners and future class of 2038 graduates, to this year’s current senior class of 2025-2026.

On their first day back at school, eager-eyed elementary students were greeted by their new teachers and given a preview of the learning activities they would participate in over the next

• Kelly Anderson – guidance counselor – Jr.-Sr. High School

• Bianca Bogdany – third grade teacher – Eastport Elementary School

• Savanna Calarco – Tuttle Avenue School – library media specialist

• Bradley Eisner – business and marketing teacher – Jr.-Sr. High School

• Cora Franzese – English as a new Language teacher – Jr.-Sr.

High School

• Robert Frontino –mathematics teacher – Jr.-Sr. High School

• Alyson Heimann – social worker – Tuttle Avenue School

• Alyssa Marinelli – social worker – Jr.-Sr. High School

• Krystina Muller – psychologist – Jr.-Sr. High School

• Ashleigh Murphy – thirdgrade teacher – Dayton Avenue School

• Drew O’Connor – art teacher –Eastport Elementary and Dayton Avenue schools

• Tiffany Patterson – Spanish teacher– Eastport Elementary

• Megan Piotti – special education teacher – Tuttle Avenue School

• Victoria Reid – special education teacher – Tuttle Avenue School

• Alexandra Yereschenko – art teacher – Dayton Avenue School

Welcome Back! Center Moriches Celebrates New School Year

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Along with fellow districts countrywide, the Center Moriches Union Free School District welcomed back its students for the first day of the 2025-2026 school year this week.

Classes kicked off for Clayton Huey Elementary School, Center Moriches Middle School and Center Moriches High School on Wednesday, September 3rd.

Pre-K through grade 12 students were welcomed by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ricardo Soto, who said, "The first day of school will always be one of the most exciting days of the year.

“Students are set to take on new challenges, make new memories, and grow as individuals throughout

year

Eastport-South Manor Officially Opens for 2025-2026 School Year

several months.

At the middle school level, students spent the day adjusting to the flow of new phenomena such as period-based scheduling and alternating teachers on a level they have yet to encounter.

“We are excited to have our students back at school,” said Superintendent of Schools Antonio Santana. “The year will be filled with Clipper Pride and high-quality academic and extracurricular experiences for our students.”

ByDeborahWilliams

Eastport-South Manor Central School District students disembarked from buses with their school supplies in tow ready to start the 2025-2026 school year on Sept. 2.

Excitement resonated throughout the school hallways as students reconnected with peers, found their classrooms and met their teachers.

Superintendent of Schools

Joseph A. Steimel reported a smooth opening for the district and confidently predicted that the school year will be positive and productive for the ESM school community. He said he is excited about the district’s new programs and completed construction projects, which will positively benefit the academic program.

Credit: Eastport-South Manor Central School District

Credit: South Country Central School District South Country School District students arrived at school on Sept. 2.

Credit: Eastport-South Manor Central School District

Tuttle Avenue Principal Rebecca Bellezza welcomed students under an arch of balloons on the first day of school.

Credit: Eastport-South Manor Central School District On the first day of school, Eastport Elementary School students became reacquainted with peers and made new friends.

another spectacular

in the Center Moriches School District,” he added.

Credit: Center Moriches Union Free School District Center Moriches students arriving for the first day of the 2025-2026 school year.

LOCAL

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Catalina, Romaine and Tierney Roll Out Suffolk's New Top Cops

Fresh off the Labor Day weekend, Suffolk County’s leaders in local law enforcement announced an onslaught of promotions for many of its veteran officers on Tuesday, September 2nd.

“Some of the people standing before me are part of the new leadership team. They’ve been here for years,” said Suffolk County Executive Romaine.

“They’ve all served in various capacities. They’ve long-risen through the ranks… Suffice it to say, we have extremely talented, experienced and knowledgeable people and we try to reward those by promoting from within.”

Most notably, seasoned commander William Doherty saw a position upgrade in the form of chief of the entire police department after 30-plus years of consummate

serving and protecting.

Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina—who revealed he and Doherty actually started their careers together in the early 1990s New York Police Department— quipped that if you told the two of them back then where they would be all these years later, they would not believe it.

“I have no doubt [Doherty] is the perfect person to lead the men and women of this department,” he said.

As Doherty moves up a prong, Sean Beran will assume his former role as chief of detectives. Dave Regina becomes chief of patrol. “He [Beran] leads with integrity and true results,” said Catalina.

Mike Kelly also becomes the first black officer to run the Third Precinct as its new inspector.

With this reshape, the promoted officers and their overseers vow to

pull out every stop while reining in traffic control, eradicating the most horrific crimes imaginable, and cracking down on every other offense in between.

“The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office is greatly looking forward to working with each and every one of you, and we support you in everything you do,” said Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. “We’re looking forward to not only keeping our community safe, but our law enforcement community safe.”

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney called the day’s promotions well-deserved, and commended his colleagues in county leadership for having a keen eye for team building.

“I think Ed is a fantastic leader, and one of the things Ed does best is he knows what he’s good at and

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A.

promotions well-deserved, and

he knows when he needs help with. When it comes to public safety, he’s appointed Kevin, and Kevin is doing a fantastic job,” said Tierney.

“Kevin has been given the

opportunity to run the department as he sees fit, and we see the results of that. I’m going to take a page out of their book… and we’ll continue to work together to do great things.”

Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Launches Corrections Intelligence Center

ByDeborahWilliams

Suffolk County Sheriff Dr. Errol D. Toulon, Jr., announced today the implementation of a groundbreaking technology partnership between the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Corrections Intelligence Center (CIC) and Fermata Discovery’s VIXN platform.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in leveraging corrections-based intelligence to enhance safety inside facilities and throughout the community. The Corrections Intelligence Center is the first intelligence center in the nation focused solely on information derived from correctional facilities.

The CIC builds upon the work of SCSO’s Internal Security Unit (ISU) and expands its reach through a network of

corrections professionals at the local, regional, national, and international levels. The mission of the CIC is to foster robust intelligence sharing and collaboration that strengthens security within correctional facilities while proactively supporting law enforcement investigations beyond the walls of the jail.

“Corrections intelligence is one of the most underutilized resources in public safety,” said Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. “By embedding VIXN’s advanced investigative platform within the CIC, we are truly setting a new standard in corrections intelligence — one that reveals actionable patterns, disrupts criminal networks, and safeguards our communities before threats escalate.”

Fermata Discovery’s VIXN

platform is purpose-built for law enforcement and intelligence operations. Within the CIC, VIXN enhances the ability of investigators and analysts to connect fragmented data, identify key relationships, and generate actionable insights.

“Jails are often overlooked as sources of intelligence, yet they hold a wealth of information that can reveal patterns and networks not visible elsewhere,” said Amanda von Goetz, CEO of Fermata Discovery.

The Corrections Intelligence Center is fully staffed by Suffolk County Corrections Intelligence Officers. The center also includes key contributions from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, New York City Department of Correction and Nassau County Sheriff’s Office. Additionally, the CIC benefits from remote participation by representatives from 49 regional counties and 159 nationally, who contribute in roundtable

discussions and receive immediate alerts on emerging trends and threats.

By combining Sheriff Toulon’s vision with advanced technology and interagency collaboration, Suffolk County’s Corrections Intelligence Center is setting a new benchmark for proactive intelligence gathering and sharing. This collaboration will further help keep correctional facilities, their residents, communities, and law enforcement officers safer.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Your New Suffolk County Sheriff's Office Correction Officers

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

To christen in the postLabor Day season, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office held a swearing-in ceremony for its new correction officer recruit class on Tuesday, September 2nd.

Sixty-three recruits—45 males and 18 females— were officially sworn in as corrections officers at Yaphank’s Correctional Facility headquarters.

Sixty-three new Suffolk County Sheriff's Office corrections officers with one

These new correction officer recruits are set to endure a rigorous 17-week training program. Here, they will receive instruction in direct supervision, de-escalation techniques, report writing, defensive tactics, firearms and much more.

Upon graduation, they join a force consisting of more than 840 Suffolk County corrections officers.

In his congratulatory remarks, Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. confirmed the new corrections officers “now hold a position of authority in Suffolk County, and with that authority comes great responsibility.”

Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

common goal.

Tierney called the day’s

commended his colleagues in county leadership for having a keen eye for team building.

Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office Launches Corrections Intelligence Center

Credit: Michael J. Reistetter

Credit: Suffolk County Sheriff Office

Judge Allows Cutting-Edge DNA Evidence in Gilgo Murder Case

ByRobertChartuk

In a pivotal ruling for the Gilgo Beach murder case, a Suffolk judge said Wednesday that DNA analysis tying suspect Rex A. Heuermann to six victims will be allowed at trial.

State Supreme Court Justice Timothy Mazzei determined that advanced testing performed by Astrea Forensics using whole genome sequencing met the threshold for admissibility.

Prosecutors say the results link Heuermann to hairs recovered with the victims’ remains.

“We won; the evidence is admissible,” District Attorney Ray Tierney said after the hearing, calling the decision a significant step for the prosecution.

Defense attorney Michael J. Brown countered that the science is not broadly accepted and promised to challenge the ruling.

“We disagree with the court’s decision,” Brown said. “This fight is far from over.” The defense filed a new motion immediately,

arguing the lab lacked proper New York State accreditation and therefore should never have been allowed to test the samples.

Heuermann, a 60-year-old architect from Massapequa Park, has been jailed in Riverhead since his July 2023 arrest. He has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of murder connected to the deaths of women whose bodies were found near Gilgo Beach and elsewhere on Long Island between 1993 and 2010.

The case has drawn national attention since police first discovered remains along Ocean Parkway in 2010. Prosecutors have described Heuermann as meticulous, citing digital files they say detailed steps for covering up the crimes.

Relatives of the victims welcomed the court’s decision. Joann Mack, whose daughter Valerie was among the victims, said: “Very pleased, very pleased — this is the result we hoped for.”

Heuermann’s trial date has not yet been set.

Brentwood Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Officer Brendon Gallagher

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Suffolk County District

Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced this week that Cody Fisher, 29, of Brentwood, admitted to driving under the influence when he seriously injured Officer Brendon Gallagher in a January LIE crash.

Fisher was weaving in and out of lanes and speeding at close to 100mph while impaired by alcohol and marijuana on the night of January 5th. Gallagher was conducting a traffic stop between Exit 58 and Exit 57 when Fisher flew by.

He attempted to pull him over, but in Fisher’s refusal to relent, he side-struck Gallagher’s vehicle twice, causing the officer’s vehicle to flip over and crash into a tree near Exit 55.

Gallagher spent the next few weeks in critical condition at Stony Brook University Hospital, where he was treated for a torn aorta and abdominal injuries that required intensive surgery.

“Our community wants to see an end to people treating

sentenced to 8 years.

The former Riverhead resident and current Ronkonkomian pled guilty earlier this summer to Operating as a Major Drug Trafficker and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree, respectively.

Slater was the supplier for ReyesRedrovan, who had relocated to Philadelphia by the time of his conviction. Court documents revealed that Reyes-Redrovan sold undercover Suffolk officers over 37 ounces of cocaine across 15 different occasions between August 2023 and March 2024.

In the 29-year-old Fisher’s refusal to relent during a Jan. 5th LIE-set police chase, he side-struck Officer Gallagher’s vehicle twice, causing the officer’s vehicle to flip over and

our shared roadways like personal racetracks,” DA Tierney said. “It’s by the grace of God that Officer Gallagher was not killed. It is because of cases like this that my office holds defendants to the highest levels of accountability for impaired or reckless driving.”

At the crime scene, Fisher’s severely damaged vehicle traveled hundreds of feet before coming to a stop. Responding officers observed the offender had glassy, bloodshot eyes and

slurred speech. They could smell a strong scent of burnt cannabis emanating from his person and vehicle as well.

He was subsequently placed under arrest and refused to submit to a blood test. When a warrant was issued, an analysis concluded he had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .06 at the time of the crash.

Fisher is due back in court on October 21st. He is expected to be sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Reyes-Redrovan was finally arrested on June 20th, 2024, when he sold an undercover officer 300 grams of heroin for $10,000.

An “eavesdropping warrant” was court-authorized to record ReyesRedrovan’s phone calls, which helped investigators identify Slater as his cocaine “connect.” When a search was conducted of Slater’s abode, cocaine, digital scales and a loaded .40-caliber semiautomatic pistol were recovered.

Slater was arrested on July 2nd.

“Drug trafficking, especially when coupled with illegal firearms, is a deadly threat to public safety,”

said DA Tierney. “Wherever dangerous drugs are being sold in our county, the Suffolk County law enforcement community will act to hold those responsible.”

The Suffolk County District Attorney’s East End Drug Task Force consists of District Attorney Investigators, the East Hampton Town Police Department, the New York State Police, the Riverhead Police Department, the Southold Police Department, the Southampton Town Police Department, the Suffolk County Police Department and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

District Attorney Ray Tierney with the families of Gilgo victims.

Credit: Robert Chartuk

crash into a tree near Exit 55.

Credit: SCDA

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on

Credit: SCDA

Slater (R) was the supplier for Reyes-Redrovan (L), who had relocated to Philadelphia by the time of his conviction. Court documents revealed Reyes-Redrovan sold undercover officers over 37 ounces between August 2023 and March 2024.

ByDeborahWilliams

Vape Violators Fall in State Crackdown

Two vape shops on Long Island are named in vape shop takedown by the state.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the largest criminal vape enforcement action in New York State history, resulting in over a dozen arrests and a total of 38 criminal charges for illegally shipping vaping products.

The sweeping crackdown on the vape industry in New York, led by the New York State Department of Health in partnership with the New York State Police, targeted businesses and their owners that operate online vape shops and distribution networks located across the state, from Western New York to Long Island.

The impacted businesses, some with brick-and-mortar stores open to the public, are located throughout Western New York, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, the Capital Region, New York City and Long Island. They include the following:

Long Island

• JPL Development Inc. d/b/a Vaperdudes (Internet based Long Island shop)

• Shinnecock Vape Shop (Montawk Highway, Suffolk County)

Governor Hochul said, “With the largest criminal vape enforcement operation in state history, New York is sending a message: if you sell vapor products in violation of our laws, you will face serious consequences.”

Based on a monthslong investigation by the Department of Health’s Bureau of Investigations that included undercover online buys, the New York State Police charged the vape dealers with Unlawful Shipment and Transport of Vapor Products, a class A misdemeanor.

Many of the illicit shipments included bright-colored disposable e-cigarettes and e-liquids in flavors that appeal to adolescents, such as fruit, candy, soda and

dessert flavors, marketed through websites, social media and mobile apps. Some included disposable vapes that come equipped with digital display screens and other tech-savvy features popular among children, teens and young adults.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The widespread availability of e-cigarettes and vapor products poses significant public health challenges, with particularly alarming consequences for adolescents such as addiction and damage to their developing brains and lungs. These arrests are a direct result of the state's dedication to decreasing vaping, especially among young people.”

In New York State, it is illegal to sell flavored vapor products at retail, sell vapor products to anyone under 21 years old, and to ship, or cause to be shipped, vapor products to consumers and unlicensed businesses. Public Health Law prescribes various

civil and criminal penalties for violations.

Despite the law, bad actors have continued to exploit online platforms to deliver products directly to New York homes, often bypassing age verification and targeting minors.

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James

State Declares Drought Watch amid Abnormally Dry Conditions, Water Restrictions Possible

ByRobertChartuk

Suffolk residents feeling a little arid are facing abnormally dry conditions with a precipitation deficit of 4.14 inches below normal since January. The prolonged dry spell has prompted the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to issue a drought watch for Suffolk and 19 other counties.

Gov. Kathy Hochul said the watch was necessary despite an occasional rainstorm. “Even with some recent rain, it wasn’t enough to reduce the dry conditions we’ve seen most of the summer this year,” she said. “In order to prevent a more severe shortage should conditions worsen, we could see local water restrictions in the Long Island, Adirondack, and Great Lakes regions of the state.”

While no mandatory restrictions are currently in place, residents are urged to conserve water to prevent further depletion of local resources. Low streamflows and

declining groundwater levels have raised concerns over the county’s sole-source aquifer, which provides drinking water for millions.

The Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA) reported a peak demand this summer at 520,000 gallons per minute, straining storage tanks and affecting water pressure. To help manage the system, the agency issued a Stage 1 Water Alert, asking customers to refrain from watering or follow an odd-even schedule if irrigation is necessary.

Officials are encouraging residents to take simple conservation measures: fix leaks promptly, use collected rainwater for plants, shorten showers, and limit outdoor hose use. Every gallon saved contributes to maintaining water pressure and ensuring an adequate supply for homes, businesses, and emergency services, officials note.

The drought watch comes as

state agencies continue to monitor conditions across New York. The DEC and the U.S. Geological Survey evaluate stream flows, groundwater

levels, and precipitation in the state’s nine drought regions to determine when action is necessary. Officials say the early notice allows residents

said, “Illicit business practices are simply not fair to owners who have followed the law and made substantial investments in their businesses. Several unlawful shipments of vape products are landing in the hands of buyers under the age of 21, posing a threat to their health and safety. This will simply not be tolerated in New York State.”

and local water suppliers to take voluntary conservation steps before more severe shortages occur.

Hochul Tells Black Congregation:

“Don't stop by the liquor store.”

ByDeborahWilliams

Over the weekend, Governor Kathy Hochul gave an address from the pulpit at True Bethel Baptist Church in Western New York, a prominent place of worship with congregations in Buffalo and Niagara Falls.

Her speech was billed as “Discussing the State of America." The governor was there to deliver remarks about tax credits for families with young children and the state tax rebate checks.

Hochul is coming under intense fire for her comments concerning the predominantly African American congregation, lecturing and warning churchgoers not to spend their soon-to-be government-issued inflation rebate checks "at the liquor store."

When New York State Conservative Party Chairman Jerry Kassar saw the video of Hochul's remarks from the pulpit, his reaction was, “Is she out of touch or just out of her mind?”

While Hochul was talking about the $250 tax rebate checks, she said to the mostly African American congregation, “Don't

spend it all in one day. Get something you really need, okay? Don't stop by the liquor store, okay? Buy something for the kids — buy them some food.”

Kassar noted that there was a brief reaction and pause by some in the audience, and hesitant laughs before obligatory applause began.

Kassar said, “The laughs actually were nervous laughs, but the aspect of laughing made it even worse. I think she knew that was a dud. That was the cringe moment. It just amazes me that a governor would say something

like that. It just goes to the fact that she's out of her mind.”

Hochul has a history of racially assumptive remarks.

Last year, the New York governor was criticized for saying, “Right now, we have young black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is.”

Hochul later expressed regret for that remark.

In her Western New York address this past weekend, Hochul also used foul language in the house of worship.

Credit: Grok/Twitter

Vape violators taken down in state sting.

Credit: Governor’s office

Credit: ffice of Governor Kathy Hochul

Governor Hochul gives racially charged remarks to a black congregation in Buffalo.

ByRobertChartuk

Hochul Roundtable Stakes New York's Energy Future on Nuclear

New York is staking its energy future on nuclear power, with leaders from across the state, the U.S., and Canada convening in Manhattan to discuss workforce development and the expansion of atomic technology. The roundtable, hosted by the New York Power Authority (NYPA), explored strategies to train and prepare the next generation of operators, engineers, and safety specialists needed to support the state’s growing nuclear ambitions.

“As New York State electrifies its economy and continues to attract large manufacturers that create good-paying jobs, we must embrace an energy policy of abundance that centers on energy independence and supply chain security to ensure New York controls its energy future,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul, who presided over the meeting. “That begins with nuclear power for the benefit of all New Yorkers.”

The meeting included officials from NYSERDA, the Department of Labor, SUNY, the Department of Public Service, the Nuclear

Energy Institute, Ontario Power Generation, and major labor unions. Discussions centered on education, training programs, and collaborative initiatives to build a skilled workforce ready to operate and maintain new nuclear facilities.

“Building and operating advanced nuclear facilities requires a strategic workforce pipeline. It is critical to begin this work now to meet future demands and ensure a reliable, emissions-free future for New Yorkers,” said Justin E. Driscoll, NYPA President and CEO.

“We’re ready to collaborate with partners across state agencies, industry, and communities to ensure workers are prepared and local communities realize long-term benefits from nuclear projects,” said Doreen M. Harris, NYSERDA President, emphasizing workforce readiness.

Roberta Reardon, Commissioner of the Department of Labor, highlighted the career opportunities nuclear energy could bring: "Through Registered Apprenticeships, our Teacher Ambassador Program, and partnerships with businesses, we

stand ready to train the workforce that will help this growing sector thrive.”

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. added that the university system is committed to preparing students for high-demand energy careers, from technician certificates to advanced research degrees.

“The expansion of nuclear energy is the missing piece in New York’s pursuit of our goals to limit harmful pollutants, cut energy costs, build the clean energy workforce, and ultimately establish a green economy,” said Gary LaBarbera, President of the New York State Building and Construction Trades Council. He emphasized that thousands of family-sustaining union careers could be created through these projects, benefiting local communities across the state.

The roundtable follows Hochul’s June directive for NYPA to develop at least one new nuclear facility with a minimum capacity of 1 gigawatt. It comes a year after her Future Energy Economy Summit and reflects a broader strategy to position New York as a national leader in clean energy innovation, nuclear workforce

development, and long-term energy independence.

Upstate officials are advocating for a plant near two existing facilities along Lake Ontario near Oswego. Locating a reactor on Long Island seems remote, given the public opposition that forced the closing of the Shoreham plant before it produced a single watt of commercial power, leaving the ratepayers with a $23.56 billion tab.

• Nine

• R.E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant—near Rochester on the Lake Ontario shore

The Queen's Gambit: Can Hochul's Atomic Aspirations Keep the Lights On?

ByRobertChartuk

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s embrace of nuclear energy marks one of the most seismic shifts in New York’s long and tortured history with atomic power. After decades of bowing to political expediency and environmental activism, the Democrats are finally confronting reality: Windmills and solar panels alone cannot keep the lights on in the Empire State.

Hochul’s nuclear workforce roundtable in Manhattan last week—bringing together labor, academia, and energy leaders— was more than just a photo op. It was an admission that New York’s so-called “green new deal” is unraveling under the weight of physics and economics.

The wind doesn’t always blow, the sun doesn’t always shine, and massive offshore projects are years behind schedule and billions over budget. In the meantime, electricity demand is skyrocketing, driven by electrification mandates, a resurgence in manufacturing, and the insatiable appetite of artificial intelligence.

The irony is painful. New York could have had the capacity to meet this challenge.

The Shoreham Nuclear Plant, shuttered before it powered a single home, stands as a $23.56 billion monument to atomic opposition. Indian Point, closed in 2021 by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, was a fully functional plant that supplied a quarter of New York City’s power—scrapped under

pressure from environmental groups and politicians eager to score points with activists. What replaced it? More fossil fuels. Carbon emissions rose, electricity prices climbed, and grid reliability worsened.

With the wolf at the door, Hochul is forced to do what her predecessors refused: put nuclear back at the center of the conversation. Her directive to the New York Power Authority to develop at least one new gigawatt-scale atomic facility is the first serious step in decades toward energy abundance rather than energy austerity.

The governor’s rhetoric at the roundtable was telling: “New York must embrace an energy policy of abundance that centers on energy independence and supply chain security,” she stated. Those words could have been spoken in the 1980s or the 2000s, when critics warned of the exact shortages we now face. They were ignored then. Can New York afford to ignore them now?

The politics will not be easy. Environmental groups will make the same arguments about safety and waste that killed Shoreham and Indian Point. NIMBY forces will protest siting and transmission lines. And yet the stakes are different today. The state’s energy future depends on

reliable baseload power. Without nuclear, the vision of a carbonfree grid collapses under its own contradictions.

Hochul’s nuclear promise is as much about jobs as it is about megawatts. Union leaders see the writing on the wall: Nuclear projects mean thousands of high-paying, long-term careers. The construction trades and universities are already preparing to train a new workforce. If framed correctly, nuclear could become an energy solution and an economic renaissance for upstate communities battered by decades of industrial decline.

But let’s not kid ourselves: Building nuclear plants won’t be easy. Even with the support

of President Trump and an EPA administrator in Lee Zeldin who refuses to make the “false choice” between environmental protection and economic growth, it’s going to take a lot of money and years to get a plant online—way after the Democrat deadline to eliminate fossil fuels.

With the prospect of rolling blackouts and economic paralysis not so far in the distant future, an astounding irony remains: The Empire State sits on a Saudi Arabia-sized supply of clean-burning natural gas that politicians such as Kathy Hochul refuse to touch. Simply tapping this resource while the state sorts out its energy mess would lift the economic prospects of every New Yorker.

New York’s three nuclear facilities are:

James A. FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant—Lycoming, near Oswego

Mile Point Nuclear Generating Station—Scriba, near Oswego

Credit: Governor’s office

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Credit: Robert Chartuk

Nuclear roundtable participants are, from left Kathryn Garcia from the governor’s office, New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin Driscol, Gov. Hochul, and Daniella Piper, NYPA executive vice president and chief innovation officer.

Antinuclear protesters in the early 1980s.

Protesters rally against the Shoreham Nuclear Plant in 1983.

ByMichaelJ.Reistetter

Happy to Report Peacock's Local Newsroom-Set 'Office' Spinoff 'The Paper' Gets It Right

The new "‘You Miss 100% of the shots you don't take' - Wayne Gretzky - Michael Scott?"

"'The courage in journalism is sticking up for the unpopular, not the popular...'

...Geraldo Rivera."

My biggest fears heading into this 10-episode binge were twofold: (1) That Greg Daniels’s expansion of “The Office” universe would rely too much upon callbacks; and (2) in doing so, it would fail to encapsulate “the grind” my colleagues and I especially know all too well.

After some obligatory references, misdirectional exposition and— hey, Oscar’s back!—overall delayed new world ingratiation at the top of episode one, these qualms were instantly assuaged upon the arrival of movie star-made-workforce comedy frontman, Domhnall Gleeson (“Ex Machina,” “Frank”).

Naturally appointed the new editor-in-chief of The Toledo Truth Teller as a reward for pushing toilet paper en incomparable masse for the parent company, Gleeson’s Ned

Samspon is compelled to cut actual journalism in a tame bullpen of lost souls.

The clickbait operation he’s inherited is near-exclusively comprised of misfits with virtually no writing experience (Melvin Gregg, Gbemisola Ikumelo, Nicole Lee). Hijinx ensue when this band of boneheads—caught in the clash between Ned’s exposé-hunger and the explosive Esmerelda’s (Sabrina Impacciatore's) fluff-defensive front—learn that, in newspaper reporting, it often pays to be (tactically) clueless.

Seeing the looks upon babescatapulted-into-the woods reporters’ faces as they break real needle-moving news, I’m reminded of all the times in this classic and necessary profession that occupational horizon-broadening shatters comfort zone complacency with cathartic indiscrimination.

Translated: Positive reinforcement leadership begets positively charged production, every damn time. Let the outlet you’re currently consuming serve as all the proof you need: If the team

ain't happy, then there goes the team.

Not to mention, as a series, “The Paper” is mass-appeal funny with just enough “inside baseball” to fill us journos with glee and sans regret that we were not tabbed to consult. It flaunts an immediate stakes and punch line flow even its cultural juggernaut predecessor did not wield out the gate.

Ned is a (eh, mostly) unproblematic boss that nevertheless wields a neurotic hammer woven in earned empathy and relatability, compared to one surrendered to all things secondhand embarrassment, tension-laden awkwardness and serially cartoonish inappropriateness.

No disrespect to the iconic Michael Scott, but he couldn’t make overnight reporters out of the company he keeps; the competency upgrade sacrifices a modicum of chaos-infused jest while upholding a paramount virtue: There are all different paths to the same straight line.

Also worth mentioning: Supporting actor and writer on the series, Alex Edelman, is a bona fide shooting star spellbound in skyfire as Adam. Moreover, his “Just for Us” HBO special last year was pure dynamite.

I hope we get to see more of his shenanigans spotlit in the alreadyannounced season 2. There’s not just an actually developed Topanga to Sampson’s Cory (Chelsea Frea), but a 2-for-1 Shawn/Eric hybrid glaringly ready to play with whatever squirrels or storyballs the writers choose to throw in his course—I mean court.

DOGE Report: Zeldin Wins Key Court Ruling on Billions in EPA Contracts

ruling to cancel $20 billion in climate grants.

ByDeborahWilliams

One of the larger spending items that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) found early on was the Biden administration’s massive set aside of taxpayer dollars on “Climate Grants” via Biden’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) grants.

The EPA said, “The Biden EPA parked $20 billion dollars at an outside financial institution in a manner that deliberately reduced the ability of EPA to conduct proper oversight. The termination of these grants reflects EPA’s duty to protect public funds and maintain the integrity of its grant programs.”

The Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia ruled in favor of EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin saying the injunction against the grant cancellation should not have been issued by the lower court. Judge Rao said in the decision, “… the equities strongly favor the government, which on behalf of the public must ensure the proper oversight and management of this

multi-billion-dollar fund.”

EPA issued a statement saying, “It’s fantastic to see reason prevail in the court system. EPA has a duty to be an exceptional steward of taxpayer dollars. Administrator Zeldin cancelled these grants due to well-documented concerns about self-dealing and conflicts of interest, unqualified recipients, and intentionally reduced agency oversight.”

The judges further remarked on the Biden administration’s EPA making inappropriate moves to protect their climate agenda, “The month before President Trump’s inauguration, EPA modified the grant agreements—with no apparent consideration from the grantees—to make it more difficult for the government to terminate the grants.

“Our jurisdiction, however, rests on law, not on the severity of the alleged wrongdoing claimed by the grantees and reported by The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Politico, ” said the Court.

Zeldin’s statement calls attention to other parts of the court decision as well, “The district court also ignored the government’s evidence of mismanagement of the grant funds, such as the damning ‘gold bars’ video, which further supports EPA’s good faith in deciding to terminate the grants and recommit the funds with proper supervision and accountability.”

This all began back in March when Zeldin notified National Clean Investment Fund and Clean Communities Investment Accelerator recipients of the

termination of the $20-billion grant agreements under the Biden-Harris administration. EPA identified substantial concerns regarding the program integrity, the award process, wasteful spending, and misalignment with agency’s priorities.

Contracts Update:

Over the last 4 days, agencies terminated 74 wasteful contracts, with a ceiling value of $920M and savings of $398M, including:

• $915k Millennium Challenge Corp. personal services contract for

“Associate Director for Gender and Social Inclusion.”

• $1.1M Millennium Challenge Corp. contract for another Associate Director in its Dept. of Compact Operations for “Gender and Social Inclusion.”

• $3.2M EPA environmental consulting contract for “business process improvement.”

• $6.7M DoT contract for “the management and administration of the FHWA Summer Transportation Internship Program for Diverse Groups.”

Family Continues Mister Softee...

Continued from page 9

The brothers’ connection to ice cream runs deep. Their grandfather, Giovanni DiGristina, was one of the original Mister Softee franchisees, starting in 1968. “He’s been here checking things out and giving us advice,” Antonio said. “He used to run his own ice cream store in 1995. When my grandmother passed, the store closed. This is like a revival for him, and for our family.” John added, “We did it for our grandfather. We’re going to keep his name alive forever.”

Mister Softee has been a Northeast favorite since 1956, when the Conway family of Pennsylvania launched the company. Known for its signature soft-serve trucks and jingles, Mister Softee now operates nationwide. The Gulers have been

franchisees for nearly a decade, running four trucks in Shirley, Mastic Beach, and Moriches.

After years of negotiation, the brothers purchased the Montauk Highway space from Bernadette Kosinski in August. “We were lucky she decided to sell,” Antonio said. “It’s perfect for our first store and complements the seasonal truck business, which usually stops in November.”

The interior will mimic the classic Mister Softee trucks, painted in the familiar blue and decorated with photos and memorabilia. The Gulers are also partnering with Queens’ Lemon Ice King of Corona to offer eight flavors of Italian ice, adding even more variety to their menu.

The Gulers have been active members of the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches for

six years, which will host a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony with local officials on September 19 at 2 p.m.

“We’re excited to bring something fun and nostalgic to the community,” Arianna said. “It’s more than ice cream—it’s family, memories, and a little bit of joy for everyone who walks in.”

With this brick-and-mortar store, the Gulers are offering yearround access to Mister Softee’s treats, extending the season for locals who have enjoyed their trucks for years.

Mister Softee, 252 Montauk Highway, Center Moriches. Open 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday— grand opening September 19 at 2 p.m.

EPA wins

A major movie franchise alum of both 'Harry Potter' and 'Star Wars,' Dohmnhall Gleeson now fronts the follow-up of a 2000s TV empire.

Credit: Grok/Twitter

Credit: Peacock

HISTORY LESSONS

BY RICHARD ACRITELLI

“Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones

And pray for the ones who don't know?

Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble

And sob for the ones left below?

Did you burst out with pride for the red, white and blue

And the heroes who died just doing what they do?

Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer

And look at yourself and what really matters?”

"Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)" - Singer

Alan Jackson

Directly after these attacks, Jackson created this song that struck a chord with Americans to recall the horrors of 9/11/01. It was 24 years ago this week that America was permanently changed from the terrorism that assaulted the economic nerve center of the World Trade Center in Manhattan, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and within the farm fields of Shanksville, Pennsylvania. On a sunny day, as our citizens were going about their daily routines of putting their children on school buses and heading to their jobs, this country felt the major sting of terrorism.

Whereas this was a regular day for Americans, the United States was extremely vulnerable from the aggressive actions of Osama bin Laden’s al-Qaeda. Never was America attacked by civilian planes to target both business and military targets. Aircraft that were fully loaded with fuel and passengers, were overtaken by terrorists, who were armed with phony explosives and knife cutters, and they were fully trained in how to fly these jumbo jets. It was a harrowing experience that was caught on tape by parents who were taking their children to school in Lower Manhattan. As they escorted their children, the footage from these peaceful and innocent moments were the first scenes to report the start of 9/11/01 against New York City.

Many businesses suffered greatly on this day that were housed in the World Trade Center complex. Cantor Fitzgerald is a financial services firm that was situated on the 101st and 105th floors of the North Tower. On this fateful day, American Airlines Flight 11 was flown into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Locally, Rocky Point High School, an average-sized school district from a middle class/blue-collar community, is located almost 70 miles from New York City. This town had three graduates who were amongst the 658 employees at

Cantor Fitzgerald who were killed on this day.

Samantha and Lisa Egan were inseparable sisters who worked for this business, and they were both killed from this aircraft.

Joanne Ahladiotis was a Rocky Point graduate who worked for the Speed Division of Cantor Fitzerald. Ahladiotis always flashed a big smile, she loved her family, friends, and enjoyed entertaining at her apartment in Forrest Hills. Emergency Services Unit Police Officer Michael S. Curtin graduated from Rocky Point High School in 1975 and quickly enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. He was deployed to Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War, helped liberate Kuwait, and was later sent to assist the Oklahoma City Bombing. On 9/11/01, the day of his wife’s birthday, as his police officers were ordered out of the North Tower, Curtin stayed behind to ensure that they all left. It was not until several months later were his remains recovered and four years later President George W. Bush (R) posthumously presented his family with a 9/11/01 Heroes Medal of Valor to recognize the efforts of Curtin. Directly after 9/11/01, Curtin’s family and friends rallied together to recall his military and police bravery and all those people who were lost on this day. They created the 3256 Foundation that for 23 years have raised money through a massive golf outing that is held at the Cherry Creek Golf Course in Riverhead. These funds are used to support local and national charities, where this organization works hard to ensure that 9/11/01 is never “forgotten.”

The former CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, was emotional during his confirmation hearings over the loss of his company, that included his brother Gary. As Lutnik accompanied his son on his first day of kindergarten, his entire company was targeted by a jumbo jet. In front of government leaders, Lutnik stated several months ago, “I still can’t say it without getting emotional. No one in the office survived. I was taking my son, Kyle, to his first day of kindergarten, which is why I’m with you today.”

Although Lutnik offered to allow the surviving workers to attend funerals, he suggested that they go to work right away, to help rebuild this company, and to support family members by raising over 180 million dollars. Now this company has grown to over 12,000 from the disaster of 9/11/01 and it employs 60 people from family members who were killed from this terrorism.

Like in Rocky Point, there were 178 people who were killed on 9/11/01 from Suffolk County.

9/11/01 - Twenty-Four Years Later

If you drive from Montauk to Huntington, there are streets, buildings, and parks that have been renamed after citizens from these towns who were “lost.” It was essentially one of the “longest days” in American history that continually reported the search and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. For days and weeks, local people did not know if their loved ones survived this attack and watched footage of Americans frantically running away from collapsing buildings and over the Brooklyn Bridge covered in soot. There were aircraft carriers stationed off the coast of Jones Beach providing air and sea security. Driving on the Long Island Expressway near Jake's 58 in Hauppauge, you were able to see the smoke from the wreckage in New York City.

Americans learned about the “Underwear” and “Shoe” bombers, the “Anthrax Scares,” and the “Color” threat levels. American airlines dramatically changed, as passengers were forced to remove shoes, belts, and hats, pockets emptied, as people were thoroughly checked before boarding a plane. At major sporting stadiums, personal bags were checked, and fans walked through metal detectors. In Penn Station, the military troops were stationed amongst the tens of thousands of people who used these railroad lines. Driving over bridges and through tunnels, police officers made “spot

checks” on vehicles and trucks to enhance security. The nation saw the creation of Homeland Security to protect this country from any future terrorist attempts.

Former New York Yankee and St. James resident Frank R. Tepedino was a New York City firefighter. Years later at Rocky Point High School, he told the students, “I did not know them all, but I lost 343 friends.” Shortly after working a shift at Ground Zero, Tepedino attended a New York Mets-Atlanta Braves game when “baseball returned back to America.” He encountered his good friend Braves Manager Bobby Cox, and they embraced each other at this time when baseball was used as a diversion away from the tragic reminders of 9/11/01. While the Braves and Mets were often rivals, they shook hands and hugged each other. Later, Tepedino threw out the first pitch of the Division Series playoffs against the Oakland Athletics. The Sporting News wrote a story on Tepedino’s career and his time as a firefighter called “Baseball as the Flag.”

Repeatedly across Long Island there was the sight of funeral processions and the sounds of bagpipes that were heard at wake and funeral services for the found remains of local citizens who were “murdered” on this day. Many schools took time to recall their lost alumni, and they recognized

these graduates with walkways, plaques, and monuments. It seemed as if every town across Long Island received a piece of steel from Lower Manhattan that was placed at parks, schools, hospitals, Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Posts, and government buildings. Local people raised large sums of money to build these projects to make sure that this date will be remembered by future generations.

It seemed like yesterday that Americans ran to stores like Walmart to purchase flags. People immediately thanked first responders in Lower Manhattan, sent them food and water, and they were cheered at the local sports stadiums. During the World Series, Bush threw out the first pitch before the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks took the field. He tossed a strike across home plate, received thunderous roars, and before leaving the mound, he flashed a “thumbs up” to the crowd. Regardless of your political party, both Republicans and Democrats were united when Bush presented his State of the Union addresses about 9/11/01. Resembling the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, Americans were firmly behind the government and each other. Driving from New Jersey over the George Washington Bridge, there was a massive American flag that cars headed under.

During sports, the Yankees, Mets, Jets, and Giants wore hats, uniforms, and clothing that represented the logos of the New York City Fire, Police, and Transit Departments. Fans had tears in their eyes when they saw flags draped across the fields and there was a sea of red-white-blue worn in the stands. Lee Greenwood’s song “Proud to be an American” was widely heard during these sad moments, where our people put their differences aside to come together. Twenty-four years ago this week, may the United States take some time out of their schedules to never forget this date that nearly killed 3,000 people from terrorism.

Hochul Tells Black Congregation...

Continued from page 14

Hochul said, “Forgive me. Who gets really pissed off about what you're (Trump) doing to my people, okay? I don't want to crash out, so I'm going to get calm, take a breath. I'm going to my calm, happy place. But it just makes your blood boil what they're doing to our people. So I'm going to do what I can as your governor. I'm going to fight like heck.”

Kassar, the NYS Conservative Chairman, added, “It's a change in conversation by Governor Hochul as she attempts to come up with mechanisms for her reelection next year. She is attempting to create what she considers more empathy with the average New Yorker, which in my view creates more of a separation from the average New Yorker.

“I dislike the use of slang and

curse words in public life. It sends the completely wrong message. They're not making a cogent point. They're just trying to show their intensity by using some foul words,” said Kassar.

“What a joke,” added Assemblyman Joe DeStefano. “The Democrats milk us for everything they can and then give us back crumbs like it’s a big deal— pathetic.”

Credit: Sviatlana Barchan | Dreamstime.com

BY NANCY BURNER, ESQ.

Adulting 101: Legal Documents

I am a recent high school graduate heading to college. Are there any legal documents I should be signing?

Yes, you should consider signing a Health Care Proxy and Durable Power of Attorney. These two estate planning documents are essential for anyone over the age of 18. Once you are legally an adult, there is no other person, including your parents, with the legal authority to make health care decisions or manage money for you. This is the case even though parents may be helping pay your tuition, you may still be covered under their health insurance plans, and may still be claimed as a dependent on their tax returns. That means if a young adult is in an accident and becomes disabled, even temporarily; a parent might need court intervention and approval through a guardianship proceeding to act on his or her behalf.

Identifying and legally authorizing someone to act for you if you cannot act for

yourself is a smart step to proper “adulting.” Having a Health Care Proxy authorizes an agent of your choosing to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated and cannot make them for yourself. The agent will also have access to your medical records during any time that you are incapacitated.

The Durable Power of Attorney appoints a trusted family member, friend or adviser as an agent to act, if need be, in a variety of financial and legal matters. The power of attorney is effective after you sign it but cannot be used by the agent until after the agent signs. This means you can appoint someone and then hold onto the document, only releasing it to the agent if they need to use it to act on your behalf.

In many cases, the parent will be the most obvious person to put in charge of both medical

and legal matters. However, if relationships are strained, another trusted adult can be named. For example, this could be an aunt, uncle or older sibling. A successor, or backup, should be named in case the agent is unable or unwilling to serve.

Beyond the fear of becoming incapacitated, the Durable Power of Attorney can also be useful in a variety of situations. If you are studying away from home or plan to study abroad outside of the country, you may need a trusted person to sign legal documents for you, such as a lease for an

apartment for an upcoming semester, or otherwise represent you. In case of an emergency, having a power of attorney makes it easier to contact the local embassy or wire money.

When heading off to college, you want to consider having a lawyer meet with you, explain the significance and prepare this these documents for your signature.

- Britt Burner, 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

Assistant Library Director

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!

Drums will be provided. Open to all.

Guitar Lessons for Adult Beginners

Saturdays,September6, 13,20,27,andOctober4 and11,2:00–3:30p.m.

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.

Credit: Chalirmpoj Pimpisarn | Dreamstime.com

or

be sure to inform the library staff member overseeing the program before the program begins All photographs are the property of the library If you will be joining us for a meeting or program, please let us know in advance if you need an accommodation that will make the event accessible to you.

American Revolution Bingo

Sign up with a friend to win prizes at a historical Bingo game in honor of the upcoming 250th birthday of the U.S.

Wed | Sept 10 | 7pm - 8pm Wed | Sept 10 | 7pm - 8pm

For more information please call 631-399-1511 x2023 Photographs may be taken at any of the library’s programs These photos may be used in library publicity, including but not limited to the library newsletter and web page If you do not want photos taken of you or your child(ren), be sure to inform the library staff member overseeing the program before the program begins All photographs are the property of the library If you will be joining us for a meeting or program, please let us know in advance if you need an accommodation that will make the event accessible to you

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK 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.

Annette Eaderesto, Esq., Referee Paykin Law, P.C. 45 Rockefeller Plaza, Floor 20 New York, NY 10111

Attorneys for Plaintiff

L16325 - 08/20/2025, 08/27/2025, 09/03/2025 & 09/10/2025

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

Dated: August 4, 2025

L16328 - 08/27/2025, 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025 & 09/17/2025

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.

L16329 - 08/27/2025, 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025, 09/24/2025 & 10/01/2025

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

LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

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.

L16330 - 08/27/2025, 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025 & 09/17/2025

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Suffolk

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, as Trustee for the benefit of the Freddie Mac Seasoned Credit Risk Transfer Trust, Series 2019-4, Plaintiff AGAINST

Estate of Patrick Nestor, Jr., et al, Defendant

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated June 4, 2024 and entered on June 6, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY on October 3, 2025 at 9:30 AM premises known as 47 Hunter Lane, Centereach, NY 11720. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 421.00, BLOCK: 04.00, LOT: 027.000; District 0200. Approximate amount of judgment is $312,599.62 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #

607797/2023.

Donna England, Referee

FRENKEL LAMBERT

WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP

53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706

L16331 - 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025 & 09/24/2025

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSETBACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-M2,

Plaintiff, Against

WILLIAM CIARAMELLI

A/K/A WILLIAM N. CIARAMELLI, WILLIAM S. CIARAMELLI A/K/A WILLIAM CIARAMELLI, et al

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 01/28/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738, on 10/7/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 143 North Summit Avenue, Patchogue, NY 11772, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Patchogue, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

District 0204 Section 008.00 Block 01.00 Lot 034.004

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $549,912.25 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 602562/2020

Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 8/5/2025 File Number: 560-1352 CA

L16334 - 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025 & 09/24/2025

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST JOSE A. LOPEZ, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 13, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on October 7, 2025 at 10:30 AM, premises known as 3 Park Avenue, Medford, NY 11763. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0200 Section 867-00 Block 01.00 Lot 040.000. Approximate amount of judgment $648,132.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613544/2023. Thomas McNally, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004335 87095

L16335 - 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025 & 09/24/2025

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY

US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff against

THE UNKNOWN HEIRSAT-LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENT PAULA

HIGGINS, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT

HEREIN, et al Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, NY 10591.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered February 13, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on October 3, 2025 at 12:00 PM. Premises known as 17 Nelson Pl, Mastic, NY 11950. District 0200 Sec 823.00 Block 09.00 Lot 028.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situated, lying and being in the Town of Brookhaven, at Mastic, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $237,380.82 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 604561/2024. Cash will not be accepted at the sale.

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules.

The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Giuseppe Rosini, Esq., Referee File # 3000-001200

L16336 - 09/03/2025, 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025 & 09/24/2025

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST Stanley Dabrowski; Helena Dabrowski; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 12, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 on October 10, 2025 at 9:30 AM, premises known as 3 Bower Court, Lake

Grove, NY 11755. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lake Grove, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District: 0208 Section: 004.00 Block: 04.00 Lot: 007.073. Approximate amount of judgment $80,723.51 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #617257/2018. Donna England, Esq., Referee McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC 420 Lexington Avenue-Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 21-05876NY 86760

L16338 - 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025, 09/24/2025 & 10/01/2025

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR LBRANCH SERIES V TRUST, Plaintiff -againstCARLOS COCHANECLA BUENO A/K/A CARLOS COCHANECLA A/K/A CARLOS LEONARDO COCHANCELO BUENO A/K/A CARLOS COCHANCELA, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO RUTH M. PARRA MARTINEZ A/K/A RUTH MARTINEZ A/K/A RUTH MARICELA PARRA MARTINEZ; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC & PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; DAMIEN MARTES; "JOHN DOE" AND "JANE DOE" said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein,, Defendants Index No. EF20252012. Mortgaged Premises: 120 Patchogue Avenue Mastic, NY 11950 District: 0200 Section: 853.00 Block: 07.00 Lot: 010.001 f/k/a District: 0200 Section: 853.00 Block: 07.00 Lots: 008.000, 009.000, & 010.000 TO THE ABOVE NAMED

DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff's attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer

or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a mortgage to secure $327,750.00 and interest, recorded in the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on December 20, 2019, in Book M00023090, Page 427, covering the premises

known as 120 Patchogue Avenue, Mastic, NY 11950. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the

answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF

THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

L16339 - 09/10/2025, 09/17/2025, 09/24/2025 & 10/01/2025

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premise Restaurant Full Liquor License, NYS

Application ID: CL-25103731-01 has been applied for by Trattoria 926 Inc. d/b/a The Trattoria serving beer, wine, cider, mead and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a restaurant, for the premises located at 532 N Country Road St James NY 11780.

L16340 - 09/10/2025 & 09/17/2025

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Fantasy Sports

The Fantasy Baseball Experience - Those September Closers

THE BETTOR ANGLE

BY TOM BARTON

It is week two in the NFL and for sports bettors that means only one thing...it's overreaction time.

While I warned you last week how the public skewed their week one bets to what they last watched and often overlooked turnover on rosters and coaching staffs, week two is the prototypical overreaction week, and the books know it. If you watched a team get absolutely blown out it's hard to get that thought out of your mind, likewise if a team looked like world beaters that image will also stick into the brains of bettors.

It's important not to get too caught up in the week one noise and cut through the inflated lines. One way to do that is to look at what the lines were prior to week one games, and where those odds will shift.

The Pittsburgh Steelers came into the season with a lot of question marks, but all of those questions were on the offensive

side of the ball. The defense was back with Watt, Heyward and company ready to dominate as they have done seemingly forever. But bettors watched a "weak" Jets offense and Justin Fields score at will on them. The total for the Steelers and Seahawks week two matchup was 40 before Sunday's games. Now it's sitting at 42 in most places and rising. There is already a 43 out there.

The Jaguars looked sharp under their new head coach Liam Cohen and Trevor Lawrence gave us a glimpse into what made teams want to tank for Trevor. Now they face the Bengals. The Bengals didn't get blasted on the scoreboard, but they did allow over 320 yards and 22 first downs to what most people believe is a weak Cleveland offense. The public also believes that there is just no way that Joe Burrow and Chase can be that bad again. So that total was 49 and now it's risen to 51

ByTomBarton

As we head into October there are some tired arms in the bullpen and getting those last few saves could mean the difference between a championship and finishing out of the money.

Some teams will be bringing up young AAA players when the rosters expand and veterans who are struggling are at a risk of losing their closing roles. There are some warnings on the horizon so let's take a look.

Jeff Hoffman remains a major concern to lose his job. The Blue Jays are in the driver's seat in their division but with the Yankees closing fast they can't afford to blow late leads. Hoffman allowed back-toback home runs in the 9th to blow a save on Saturday and that was his 14th home run allowed this season, tied for the most by any reliever. His ERA has ballooned up over

five now and he has allowed seven runs in his last three appearances. It might not be long before the Jays are forced to make a change.

In New York David Bednar was thought to be the safe option to save games and he has looked good for the Yankees. Bednar has allowed just two runs in his last 10 appearances, but the way Aaron Boone is using him might be alarming. Since being traded Bednar now has pitched multiple innings in three of his first 10 shots to close and Boone might start playing him as a guy who gets the best part of the lineup out. Don't look now but Devin Williams might be back in the fold. Williams has only allowed one run in his last nine appearances, and he has 20 Ks over that span.

The Orioles bullpen is a mess, but it might be giving the job to Keegan Akin. Akin earned a save this past week and has allowed just two runs in his last 10 innings. The

bullpen will remain a mess there as it is in Chicago as the White Sox don't get many save chances and it's a three-headed committee. Stay far away from this. The same can be said about Texas where Shawn Armstrong, Phil Maton and Robert Garcia are vying for chances.

The A's had a change where they now are looking to Sean Newcomb, or is it Michael Kelly, what about Hogan Harris? Another dart-throw situation. Harris did get their last save though.

In San Francisco Ryan Walker is back and in a very good spot to earn some saves for a team that plays a lot of close games, but the big closer news is coming from Arizona where lefty Andrew Saalfrank seems to be the favorite. Managers usually will deploy lefties in the bullpen on matchups only, but he has done a great job so far and might be the one to keep the job for the next month.

Overreaction Week Two

and might still go up from there. The public is expecting points.

When a team absolutely destroys another squad, you know there will be some overreaction and if you turned on any sports talk show on Sunday night that drooling over the Packers could not be contained. The Pack wiped the floor with the Lions, a Super Bowl contender, and while Washington won impressively also the Packers are the team that received all the attention.

Green Bay smoked the Lions, but peeling back the layers they actually were outgained, had less first downs, and less passing yards. Now they face Washington, on a short week, and the line is rising quickly and even jumped over a key number. The look ahead number was -2 1/2 before Sunday's games and now it sits at -4 in favor of the Packers in some spots. We'll learn a lot about both of these teams on Thursday.

Flamethrower

Credit: Grok

Trump to Return Home For 9/11 Yankee Game

ByTomBarton

Reports say that President Donald Trump is set to be in attendance in the Bronx for the New York Yankees game this September 11th.

The Yankees will be at home this year to take on the Tigers, Thursday night.

Trump has received some criticism lately for not being around as much as the press has been used to but he has pushed aside any health issues and will be attending another sporting event.

Trump has made it a habit of attending big sporting events during his tenure, so going back to New York for the 9/11 game would make sense and be special for him and the city, as well as the country. The president attended Super

Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, making him the first sitting president to attend the championship game.

He also made an appearance at the NASCAR Cup Series' Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, where he led the field around the track to a loud ovation and cheers of "U.S.A." rained down on the track. The same chants of "U.S.A." followed him when introduced at the NCAA wrestling championships in Philadelphia and are always a part of his appearances at his numerous UFC fights.

The New York native is also set to attend a memorial event at the Pentagon, while Vice President JD Vance will represent the administration at a commemoration ceremony at Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan.

The Mets Have a Senga Problem

ByTomBarton

The New York Mets are in the thick of a playoff race and what most Mets fans believed would be their ace starter now has some major questions surrounding him.

Kodai Senga came to the Mets with all sorts of appeal. His ghost fork slider made him famous overseas and there are times when that pitch looks literally unhittable. Few questioned if Senga could pitch at the big-league level but his career ERA suggests that not only can he pitch here, but he is the ace of a playoff team.

The problem is that the questions about durability from foreign-born players is proving to be a very valid issue. Senga has suddenly had a hard time putting in innings and he is getting hit much harder then we've seen. He has never been a high-innings starter. Most of the workhorse pitchers have gone the way of the dinosaur anyway, but Senga is even less than that. Senga has failed to complete five full innings four of his last six turns in the rotation and has done so only three times since June 12th.

In addition to his not being able to help the bullpen and give valuable innings he also has been

Mount Sinai Football Gives Back

ByTomBarton

The Mount Sinai football annual picnic is always about more than just what it looks like on the surface. Each year, the Mount Sinai Football program gets together for their annual team picnic. This is a tradition that celebrates family, community, and the bond between players. It's great for the players and something that many schools do to unite everyone, but Mount Sinai doesn't stop there.

After the picnic the players do what they have now done for a while. They start to give back. It's part of a long-standing tradition of giving back, the senior players collect leftover food and deliver it to Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson. The team takes pride in knowing that the food is put to good use, supporting members of the local community who rely on Hope House’s services.

Hope House Ministries provides compassionate, comprehensive, and competent care for the poor, the marginalized, and the wounded among us. Specifically, to young people and families in crisis, pregnant women and mothers and babies in crisis and all other wounded people who are seen as abandoned and neglected.

Mount Sinai Football has made this donation a yearly commitment, and the players are proud to carry on the tradition of service. For the seniors, this act of giving back represents more than just football— it’s about leadership, gratitude, and community impact.

The players enjoy helping and take such pride in doing so. Offensive lineman Wesley Moody took to X to express his joy saying, "Dropped off some lunch at the Hope House Ministries today with the boys after our scrimmage. Pumped for the season to start."

getting hit hard. Senga has allowed 19 hits and 12 runs in his last 13 2/3 innings. So, the question facing the Mets is can they trust him down the stretch or even into the playoffs.

That is a question that they might soon be confronted with because they have some arms returning. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza alluded to the decision he will soon face after Senga's last start telling the media, “We’ve got to get him right, obviously. I’m pretty sure we’re going to have some discussion about what’s next for him. But our job is to get him right. But it’s been a struggle. It has

been a struggle. And again, we’ll see what’s next for him."

That comment led many to believe a possible bullpen stint might be on the horizon for Senga but Mendoza all but shut that down saying, “They are part of the rotation,” speaking about Senga and Manaea, per a September 1 article from Mike Puma, “So, our job is trying to find a way to help [them] and that’s what we will do.”

With Megill on the mend and the Mets young arms looking like aces themselves one has to wonder how long Mendoza can continue to roll out a starter who can't give the team innings.

Section XI Reps Named for NYPHSAA Council

ByTomBarton

Section XI representatives Bayla Goldberg and Charlie Carter have been asked to serve on the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Student Athlete Advisory Council.

The student-Athlete Advisory Committee was developed to give student-athletes a voice within NYSPHSAA. Over the course of the school year, the committee will discuss topics relevant to high school student-athletes and develop ways to maintain a positive athletic experience.

Each committee member is expected to exemplify leadership while providing feedback on NYSPHSAA special programs, including, but not limited to, Scholar-Athlete, Sportsmanship, Life of an Athlete, Student Leadership, and Community Service. Two student-athletes from each of the 11 sections are selected each year and serve a oneyear term. Juniors have the option to serve a two-year term.

Goldberg is a senior at

Smithtown High School East and participates on the gymnastics team. Active in Student Council, National Honor Society, and Relay for Life, she has represented Section XI at the NYSPHSAA Student Leadership Conference.

Section XI said of her that she is "Passionate about advocacy and inclusion, she is excited to use her voice on SAAC to support student-athletes and strengthen the athletic community across New York."

Carter is a junior at Mattituck and is a three-sport athlete who plays on the boys' soccer, boys' basketball, and boys lacrosse teams, and serves as Class President. He founded the “Play It Forward” initiative, bringing student-athletes together for community service, and has represented Section XI at the NYSPHSAA Student Leadership Conference. Excited to join SAAC, he hopes to give back to athletics and ensure every student-athlete feels included and supported.

Mustangs Football Players

Credit: Section XI - Suffolk County Athletics | Facebook Section XI Students

Trump plays catch.

Credit: @bennyjohnson | X

Credit: Grok

Kodai Senga

ByTomBarton

Stony Brook Volleyball off to a Hot Start

The Stony Brook Seawolves volleyball team has gotten off to a rousing start this season and with their red-hot start has come

some personal accolades. Mercedes Motton earned her first career weekly honor after leading the Seawolves with 14 blocks over the weekend

and then was named the CAA Defensive Player of the Week.

The Seawolves went 3-0 in the Stony Brook Invite over the week and Motton was an elite presence. Besides her 14 total blocks she also added 15 kills and four digs filling up her stat sheet. In the second match of the weekend, she recorded six blocks in Stony Brook's win over Siena. In the weekend finale against Rhode Island, she added another four blocks and seven kills.

Stony Brook wound up taking home two of the three honors given out by the CAA weekly when Ava Zamora was named CAA Rookie of the Week.

In her debut game the freshman led the way with 115 assists and 10 assists per set. She also added 12 kills, six service aces, 31 digs and three blocks over her first three collegiate starts. Zamora nearly posted a triple-double in her second

career start, totaling 50 assists, 17 digs and going 9-of-12 on kill attempts against Siena. Zamora was also named to the Stony Brook Invite All-Tournament Team.

Stony Brook Punter Nominated for Prestigious Award

ByTomBarton

Stony Brook has been receiving a lot of offseason attention after their turnaround season last year and the expectations are high for this season.

Some Seawolves are also being looked at for individual awards. Senior punter Clayton Taylor has been nominated for the 2025 William V. Campbell Trophy.

The Campbell Trophy is awarded each year by the National Football Foundation to a senior entering his final year of playing eligibility. The William V. Campbell Trophy is considered one of the most prestigious academic honors in college football. It recognizes an individual who combines

all of the traits that you would want in a young athlete. The award winner excels in academic achievement, football performance, and exemplary leadership.

Grades are at the forefront of the award. To be eligible for nomination, student-athletes must maintain a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale. They also must be able to demonstrate outstanding football ability as a starter or significant contributor, and exhibit exemplary leadership on the field, in the classroom, and within the community.

Taylor returns for the 2025 season after appearing in all 12 games last year, punting for a

career-high 2,622 yards with a 42.3-yard average, including a season-long 62-yard punt. He recorded 20 fair catches and placed 20 punts inside the 20yard line, while logging nine punts of 50 yards or more. His 42.3-yard average was the second-highest single-season mark in program history, earning him CSC Academic AllDistrict honors.

Over the course of his career, Taylor has written his name in the Stony Brook record books. He ranks second all-time in single season punting average (42.3), 10th in career punting average (39.1), and second in career punts (184).

Clayton Taylor

Ava Zamora

Mercedes Motton

Credit: stonybrookathletics.com

SPORTS Suffolk County Football Preview

Shoreham-Wading River

HeadCoach:AdenSmith

The Cats came into last year after just falling short in the championships but had only two returning starters. That didn't stop Coach Smith from bringing them back to the playoffs in an impressive coaching display. Now they have seniors all over the field and should be primed for another big run, but it's his underclassman that he highlighted at media day. He pointed to his two sophomores and two juniors as key players and specifically spoke about the continuity of having a returning center and QB who have played together. Noah Gregorek is young but they are excited for him and if he clicks early this team will be back on top.

Miller

Place

HeadCoach:AdamSt.Nicholas

Shane Kiernan is back, and he comes back as one of the most exciting players on Long Island. The 6'1" 190-pounder has the size and athleticism to take Miller Place to the playoffs. In his past 20 games he has thrown for almost 4,000 yards and 40 TDs. The offense runs through him and he is a team leader that will be able to get this squad to the playoffs. How deep they go into the playoffs will depend on a defense that will have every single starter being turned over. There is a ton of promise, but Miller Place has to get in sync on the defensive side of the ball for things to become a special season.

Mount Sinai

HeadCoach:VinnieAmmirato

Last year this team was excited about the JV kids coming up and contributing right away. The JV team went undefeated and they "have some big, strong lineman that will jump right in and play for us next to the skill kids we have back." said Ammirato. Now

those JV players are put into key positions and Mount Sinai looks like a contender once again. Max Sorrentino looked good after taking over last season and now will be the unquestioned starter from day one. Their offseason consisted of the lineman leading team activities, and the line will be the strong part of the team this year.

Center Moriches

HeadCoach:MattMillheiser

Coach Milheiser already has led this team to the best regular season record in school history and made the playoffs again last year. Millheiser won three straight Long Island championships with Shoreham-Wading River before leaving in 2018 and now that is the goal for this squad. He has some interesting playmakers, and they should open up the offense for big scores.

Port Jefferson

HeadCoach:JoshuaShields

Coach Josh Shields called last year a "disappointing season" as it was his

it will be in a much better position this season. He said, "that growth will show" and we can't disagree with that when his track record shows nothing but winning. They will play a more old-school brand of football or as some called it a smashmouth type and that hard-nosed approach should yield more success as the youngsters have grown into their prominent roles.

Bayport-Blue Point

HeadCoach:MikeZafonte

The Phantoms titles are beginning to add up. Coach Zafonte has made Bayport-Blue Point the blueprint in this division and everyone is chasing their success. The Phantoms won a third straight Suffolk IV title but came just short for back-to-back Long Island champions. They are a senior-led team that will have even more experience and championship experience at that. This team has established their strengths on the inside game for years and nothing should be different as they have bulk and power up front on both

title game once again.

John Glenn

HeadCoach:TJBrocking

Coach Shanahan gave the school a great 30 seasons and now gives way to one of his assistants to take over. Head wrestling coach TJ Brocking, who has served as a football assistant under Shanahan for 14 years, is the head man in charge now. Brocking is taking his best WR weapon and putting him under center as the offense will have an entirely different look. The skill position players have a lot of talent, so all eyes are on how they fill the different positions.

Babylon

HeadCoach:RickPunzone

A heartbreaking loss two years in a row in the playoffs last year

stings but after two decades on the sidelines coach Rick Punzone knows how to retool quickly. Aidan Winter was a force last year becoming Babylon's all-time leader rusher and will again be the focal point. This should be a playoff team again and with Winter running the way he has they could be in store for a deep run.

King's Park

HeadCoach:MarkO’Brien

Coach O'Brien enters his 31st year as the head coach of King's Park and he told me that he believed that was the longest tenure in Suffolk, but certainly the division. They moved into this division last year with a very young team that has just eight seniors. That makes this season's team full of experience and a chance for a big season could be on the horizon as they aim for a playoff berth.

Hampton Bays

HeadCoach:SeanGil

Coach Sean Gil is trying to revitalize this program after two seasons of not having a varsity team and last year he impressed with a 3-5 record. As his program grows so does the record and we could see another step in that direction this season. Offensively they have some weapons and can make it a nightmare on defenses.

Greenport/Southold/ Mattituck

Unfortunately, they did not have enough players to field a varsity football team this season and has become the second school to drop out of Suffolk Division IV. The other is...

Southampton

Last season they fielded their first varsity football team since 2019 but did not have enough players for this season.

first year not making the playoffs. But was quick to point out that the team that had a lot of freshmen on

lines as well as true athleticism on the outsides. There is little reason to think that they can't be back in the

SPORTS Suffolk County Football Preview

Rocky Point

HeadCoach:Anthony DiLorenzo

The Eagles had major injury issues last season and lost a good chunk of their team. This year they are healthy and one of those returning will be their QB Peyton Reisinger. He was slated to be the starter as a sophomore last year before the injury. He will have an offense that goes four deep at receiver and all are playmakers when they get their targets and Cristian Romerowill be running behind a solid line. The defense will have to step up to get them into the playoffs, but just some better injury luck and this team will improve from last year.

Smithtown West

HeadCoach:CraigPerrino

Last season no team lost more starters than West did, but this year those players who filled pivotal roles all return. That begins with star QB Nick DeVito. DeVito was named the overall skills champion at the QB Challenge this summer, which now puts him on a path as the best QB on Long Island. That is a great building block. He isn't alone though as halfback and linebacker Nick Zins has already committed to Ithaca on the back of his strong play and he will pair with Michael Cascione to make a great one-two punch in the backfield. This team can throw, it can run and certainly play good defense. They will be in the mix for the top spot in the division.

Comsewogue

HeadCoach:SeanTremblay

The always running Tremblaycoached team should take to the air more with Nick Saladino behind center. Saladino adds an element to the team that can stretch the field and with an aggressive defensive line they should put pressure on the opposing QBs as well. They are

a well-rounded team and can take the next step after heading to the playoffs the last two years.

Eastport-South Manor

HeadCoach:GuyBuckley

Guy Buckley made the playoffs in his first season and he will look to ride his momentum back into the playoffs once again. They are a runfirst team and have speed on the outside as well as the power game. This team wore opponents down late last year and we can expect the same conditioning with the secondyear coach.

Half Hollow Hills West

HeadCoach:GeraldFilardi

Joseph Filardi is gone and most think he left a massive hole. But, their new signal caller Luke Taff really turned heads at the QB Challenge this summer. He finished second overall and now enters an offense that knows how to, and designs game plans, to utilize that QB play. They also lost some key players at prime positions but their team still has talent on both sides of the ball. When asked about replacing those names Coach Filardi said, "We have names, we have all sorts of names coming back." His team certainly looked the part at media day as they were the only team adorned in full suits, rather than football jerseys. They told me that was because when Coach Filardi was at Penn State that is what college teams wore to media day and you can see this is a nononsense approach to the season. West looks dialed in already.

Westhampton

HeadCoach:Bryan Schaumloffel

Coach Schaumloffel spoke about experience in our interview and made sure to mention his offensive line. That line brings back a lot of talent and a lot of weight as they are a big and physical line. Coach also

There were big expectations for Harborfields last year but injuries derailed those fast. This year there is turnover at key positions that will

major lacrosse recruit) told me that he "loves both sports and can't wait to get out there." While the offense should click right away, the defense is bringing back almost all of the starters so that unit could carry them as well. This should be a big year for Westhampton.

Sayville

HeadCoach: RobertHoss

What is old is new again for Sayville this year. Coach Robert Hoss takes over for Reade Sands, who retired. Hoss is not in unfamiliar territory as he returns to coaching Sayville. He had great success with them leading them to five Long Island Class III championships in 15 years. He takes over a team with a ton of seniors manning key positions, none bigger than at QB where Patrick Coanwill lead the way. The track record of the program and coach is there for this team to have another deep playoff run.

Harborfields

HeadCoach:RoccoColucci

have to mix in quickly to get back over .500. QB Landon Paulino will lead a group of seniors that happen to be first time starters and should be able to close that learning gap quickly.

Hauppauge

HeadCoach:ChrisDiesso

Coach Diesso enters his third season and he brings with an offense that should once again be explosive. Much like some other teams injuries hurt this team after a fast start and with some health this offense can carry them to big things. If the defense can get right they will have a very good season.

Islip

HeadCoach:JamieLynch

Islip went back to Division 3 last season after spending one season in Division 4 and put together a solid 7-3 season. They have a good passing defense that should play a big role this year and their defense overall should be the cornerstone of this team. With a new QB and some new offensive pieces the offense

will have to gel fast to get them back to the same lofty record. But, they have experienced line play that will help the QB transition.

East Hampton

HeadCoach:JoeMcKee

While many teams are dealing with roster turnover this season and replacing seniors at key spots, East Hampton returns the most starters in the division and should be ready to hit the ground running. Their team will look like the same units as last year, which was a playoff squad and with that senior leadership they could be in for a big playoff run.

Amityville

HeadCoach:JasonEpps

Coach Epps replaced his coaching staff last year and while the team looked more focused it just didn't show in the wins column. This season they have strength back at running back and some talent on defense. Their young QB could be the difference maker, he is a talented youngster that will have to learn at the upper levels quickly if they want to get closer to .500.

West Islip

HeadCoach:SteveMileti

Coach Mileti has made this team a perennial playoff contender but last year went bad quickly. This season he returns with a senior-laden team led by QB TJ Sonnenbergand things should be looking up for West Islip.

Wyandanch

HeadCoach: RichSlattery

Coach Slattery takes over the reins after coaching for 12 years he understands the rebuild that must happen. He has reached out asking for 100% commitment from the players and with that he can rebuild a program that has won just two games in the past two seasons. Expect a designed rushing attack to lead the way and a disciplined football team.

pointed at his second year QB Jake Calloway. He said "He was great in the second half, and he is a leader." The dual-sport standout (he is a

SPORTS Suffolk County Football Preview

Half Hollow Hills East HeadCoach:

AlexMarcelin

Coach Alex Marcelin has walked into this program and already accomplished more than any team ever did at the school, yet they believe there is even more to win. Who can blame them? After winning the school's first-ever Suffolk County Championship they lost a one-point heartbreaker in the Long Island title game. That loss makes these seniors hungry for more and that will be fuel for this season. Coach Marcelin speaks about being "physical and disciplined" and he knows how good his team can be on offense, but it's the defense that was the best on the Island. They return their senior QB Nick Sevilla and their dynamic 25 TD running back Daniel White who will both operate behind a big and aggressive offensive line. The offense will get theirs and if this defense resembles anything like last year's suffocating squad Marcelin will be back in the title game.

Bellport

HeadCoach:JamieFabian

It's the 50th year anniversary for the program and Jamie Fabian has shown the same sort of success and leadership as the school has always known. This football program and the community is as tied in together as there is on the Island and that sense of family brings with it mounds of success on the field. The Cipp family has been a backbone of this program for decades now so it's fitting that the QB leading the way this season has Cipp on the back of his jersey. Braydon Cipp is a dual threat QB who can run but wants to pass first and that downfield game opens up the offense. The defense lost Trey'von Holland but still has talent who will get into the backfield. This is a well-coached and well-quarterbacked team that will be right in the mix. If their defense steps up they can do big things in Fabian's eighth season in charge.

Centereach

HeadCoach:AdamBarrett

Last season this team's plan was to air it out while this year you look at that offensive line and one can expect a more power brand of football. That doesn't mean that QB

Jason Cesa won't go to the air often, but the O-line is an impressive one and can open up some big running lanes. Their playmakers are underclassman but they are behind seniors up front and that experience should pay dividends.

Connetquot

HeadCoach:MikeKonsevitch Jr.

Connetquot comes back to Division 2 this season and they bring with it one of the best signal callers in the county. Vincent Feracalit up the scoreboard last season and with another year under his belt we can expect much of the same. This team can run the ball also, but they use the screen game very effectively and getting playmakers out in space will be a key.

Commack

HeadCoach:JoeReggio

The Cougars failed to make the playoffs last year which is a rarity. This team only failed to do so four times in the past decade plus and now last year's inexperience turns into this season's veterans. Their

in 2019 and last year might have been the most heartbreaking. They lost close game after close game and now return with a sense of more is on the table for them to win and it's hard to argue that. Adler built this team around strong up front lines and getting that push will be paramount to the success this year.

team is littered with seniors at key positions and some juniors who were thrown into the fire. The growth from last year should help as Commack comes to Division 2 for the first time in recent memory.

Newfield

HeadCoach:NickAdler

Nick Adler took over the program

Smithtown East

HeadCoach: GregLauri

Last year Smithtown East changed some of the coaches and still didn't get the results they wanted. This year it's a new head coach and new direction. The Bulls have not had a winning record in 10 years. They are just 10-28 the past few

seasons and have had three coaches in four years. In comes Lauri, who had been the offensive coordinator at Sachem North for the past seven years and he seems like the perfect coach to get the most out of a highIQ signal caller. They are in smart hands with Antonio Marrone leading the charge. The QB won the Football IQ championship at this year's summer QB Challenge.

North Babylon

HeadCoach:JohnRowland

This team won two of the last three seasons and should be right back in the mix again. They are retooling but their team philosophy has always been to run the rock and they should be in that same mindset again this season. Rowland has a younger team than in years past but his coaching style will carry over and keep this team right in every game.

East Islip

HeadCoach:SalJ.Ciampi

After winning the Division 3 championship they moved up to D-2 last season and showed the same sort of success. That's no surprise with Coach Ciampi at the helm for his 25th season. They did lose their senior QB but the solid offensive line in front of him has some big-time blockers. They are led by Dylan Bayer, who was a finalist for Suffolk’s top lineman. The team is very well-coached and their lines are solid, how far this team goes into the playoffs will rely on their younger playmakers taking that next step up.

Northport

HeadCoach:PatCampbell

Coach Campbell and this team have missed the playoffs just once in the past 14 seasons, so seeing them in the playoffs is a likely outcome. How far they can go is still a question mark as their offense has some different moving parts this season. On paper it looks like they are set up for another playoff bid as they will lean heavily on a lot of returning seniors who will play a pivotal role. We should expect them to take to the air more this year and it could be a fun air attack after QB Simon Blisset won the QB Challenge Air It Out award this summer.

West Babylon

HeadCoach:JoePatrovich

When a team gets a new head coach there is usually a sense of uncertainty and enthusiasm. With West Babylon it is enthusiasm, but they know exactly what they are getting with their new man in charge. Coach Patrovich is a winner plain and simple. He is the only coach in Long Island history to win county championships in Nassau and Suffolk. He coached and won at division, in Levittown in 1981 and 1982 and then at Islip in 1991, 1992, 2002. With a new coach in charge we should see them trending upwards, quickly.

Huntington

Head

Coach:RonWilson

Wilson will begin his third season by bringing back a ton of weapons on offense. His team was an offensive force last season and that led to a winning record and the formula won't change much here in year three. All of their key offensive players from their QB, to both RBs and receivers, and key offensive lineman are all seniors. Wilson could not have asked for more continuity on that side of the ball.

Deer Park

HeadCoach: CodyCiolino

With a new head coach there is some rebuilding to do and coach Ciolino knows that means a full program rebuild. Deer Park had their first commitment day this year to try and reach the younger upcoming players and that speaks to how this team will look on the field. It will be young and looking to the future. They have to get the defense right first as that unit was a weak link last year.

Copiague

HeadCoach: PhilFortuno

Yet another coaching change leaves Ken Rittenhouse out after 16 seasons and in comes Phil Fortuno. Fortuno knows these players as he was a JV coach, so there is some good familiarity within the program and direction. Rittenhouse ended their 42-game losing streak last year and won two games, but the school wants much more success and they liked what Fortuno could bring up from the lower level.

SPORTS Suffolk County Football Preview

William Floyd

HeadCoach:PaulLongo

Coach Longo returns for his 31st season as head coach and he said he will do this for as long as he can, "I love it." The Colonials have won each of the past two Division 1 titles to add to their record 15 overall championships. Last season they were replacing 19 seniors but this year they have some main cogs back and ready to deliver once again. The biggest name being Ja’Quan Thoma, who many consider the best player on Long Island. The New York Jets named him “High School Football Offensive Player of the Year” by the New York Jets and Gatorade and he was the D-1 MVP last season. Thomas told me that he wants to "be better than last year and win as a team. His focus is on winning a Long Island Championship and to make history for the school and fans." With over 2,500 yards and 37 TDs last season William Floyd seems like the favorite to win this tough division once again.

Patchogue-Medford

HeadCoach:GregMurphy

Pat-Med will now have a new head coach for the third time in as many seasons and last year they endured another rough one. They have won just two games in the past two seasons. Murphy now takes over with over 30 years of experience under his belt and has turned programs around leading his last team to its first Suffolk County championship and Long Island championship game appearance. He brought in veteran coaches with him and the excitement level showed with 40 kids on the roster showing up to offseason workouts. Murphy is not shy to aim big saying, “We’re going to compete for the playoffs." The team’s slogan for this season is “New beginnings, same tradition," with Murphy in charge the future looks bright.

Longwood

HeadCoach:SeanKluber

Last year Coach Kluber said, "This is the largest roster we have ever had at Longwood High School. We are holding 67 kids. We have 40 seniors and are bringing back eight starters on each side of the ball." That is now a thing of the past as they graduated all of those seniors, but under Coach Kluber it's retool not rebuild. They come back with a ton of talent, even if their experience level is not what it was. Kluber has shown in his five years that he can elevate talent quickly and they will rely on sophomore QB Ryan Greene. Their defense should again be a cornerstone for them with an excellent secondary leading the way.

Ward Melville

HeadCoach:ChrisBoltrek

One of the longest running football programs on the Island is now going into its 59th year as a program and Head Coach Boltrek is entering his 12th. Their senior-laden team from last year is gone, but their star power is back,

especially on the offensive side of the ball. QB Hudson Philbrick, RB Joey Benedetto and WR Joey Karpowicz will lead the charge for this explosive offense and they are gunning for William Floyd. The Floyd vs. Ward Melville rivalry has been historically owned by William Floyd, but Ward Melville is 2-2 the last four years against the powerhouse and their offensive playmakers could swing the balance in the division this season.

Sachem East

HeadCoach:RayPickersgill

Last season Sachem East felt great heading into the season returning every starter on both sides of the line, a line that won the lineman's challenge but this year that means massive turnover in the trenches.

Jack Martines will stabilize that uncertainty on both sides and his leadership can carry this team. How the new line gels with basically a new QB will make or break this season for East.

Sachem North

HeadCoach:DaveCaputo

Sachem North doesn't hide from their offensive outlook much. They want to run the ball early and often to set the tone and once again behind what should be a very good offensive line, they will be able to establish that mentality. The O-line won the coveted National Football Foundation Lineman Challenge this year and Coach Caputo expressed how proud he was of them. This will be the backbone of the team as it buys time for QB Luke LaRocca

to open up the downfield passing game. Merely making it to the playoffs isn't Sachem's goal, as they have reached the semifinals each of the past three years, but behind this line they believe they can win the championship.

Walt Whitman

HeadCoach:RobinRosa

Coach Rosa enters his 16th season at the helm and he will be coaching a team without a lot of experience. Whitman went into last season with low expectations but made it to their fifth straight postseason and this year the young squad looks to be energized at making that six straight. Their size at the power positions will be the X factor in determining how far they can go.

Lindenhurst

HeadCoach:MarkFrole

Coach Frole became the 14th coach in the school's history last season and promptly delivered a winning season and a playoff berth. The former assistant coach knows the history of this program and hit the ground running and now can put even more of a stamp on his brand of football. He comes in with a young offensive line and a two-headed QB situation, which can make some nervous, but Frole showed last year that his teams can get on the same page fast and how that line holds up will be the difference between another winning season or a growth year.

Bay Shore

HeadCoach:AndrewNevitt

Nevitt had that two-QB situation last year and now in year three he will be looking to get over the break-even point. His players are on board and spoke at media day about the excitement they have coming into the year. Coach Nevitt highlighted the upward trend in Bay Shore's performance over the past two seasons and his players feel that same upward momentum. RB/LB Ray Cerda said, "These last few years we've really changed the culture and the mindset, and we really just want to win. We've earned it, we've worked for it, and we're going to work towards a good season. You should expect big things out of us. We're going to surprise a lot of people." "I'm excited to play with all of my fellow teammates. I really think everyone in this season, they're really bringing each other up," said Lineman Nate Perez. While the school's proud history wasn't lost on defensive back Cato Thomas saying, "Bay Shore's a great program and for me to be a part of the 99th year is very special to me."

Brentwood

HeadCoach:RichDeJesus

Coach DeJesus has some key playmakers this season and some solid line play makes Brentwood a trendy pick to have a very good season. They are led by All-Suffolk team member Chris Peralta and there was a ton of talk about their offensive, and defensive line at media day. If Peralta can keep it up on both sides of the ball and the line holds up Brentwood will be a playoff team.

Riverhead

HeadCoach:DonNelson

It's been a rough couple of years for Riverhead, after 2-6 and 1-7 seasons, they made a change at the top inserting new head coach Don Nelson to the role. Nelson is coaching his hometown team and he calls it a dream come true. Nelson was born in Riverhead, played for them and was part of Riverhead’s coaching staff in 1988 when the team won the Rutgers trophy, which is awarded to the best team in Suffolk County. His coaching has to focus on priority one being getting the defense right and if he can do that this feel-story will show up in the wins column.

Central Islip

HeadCoach:SeanChristie

There is more turnover at the top at C.I. as they have hired Sean Christie as their new head coach. Christie comes in with D-1 playing experience and that was highlighted at media day. The players look up to someone who has had that sort of success and the school can feel the enthusiasm. Coach Christie was a three-year starter at left guard at the University of Maryland from 20172019. Aristides Holman is a talented QB and the offense has some playmakers but there are line issues that need to be corrected. That is where we will see the coaching of Christie come in and can change the direction of this team that has won just one game the past two seasons.

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