The Port Times Record - June 1, 2023

The PORT TIMES RECORD

Suffolk elections board invalidates Sheprow’s petitions, removes mayoral candidate from June 20 ballot

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The mayoral race in the Village of Port Jefferson just took a shocking twist.

In the upcoming village election on June 20, trustee Lauren Sheprow and Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden are vying to succeed incumbent Mayor Margot Garant, who is running for Town of Brookhaven supervisor. Following a meeting of the Suffolk County Board of Elections on Tuesday, May 30, Sheprow’s petitions were ruled invalid. This ruling removes Sheprow’s name from the ballot.

In a statement, Sheprow said her opponent challenged her petitions due to an error on her cover sheet. In the face of the decision, she pledged to continue her mayoral

campaign, now running as a writein candidate.

“My opponent’s campaign and its lawyers challenged my petitions, and due to an issue with the cover sheet, the Suffolk County Board of Elections on May 30 determined that my name cannot be placed on the ballot,” Sheprow said in a statement.

She added, “I am committed to continuing my campaign for mayor even if it means I’ll be a ‘writein’ candidate. It may be an uphill battle, but I will not quit the people of Port Jefferson.” [See page A22 for complete statement.]

A statement issued by The Unity Party, the ticket under which Snaden is running alongside trustee Stan Loucks, clarifies how the challenges to Sheprow’s petitions first came about.

“The Unity Party requested,

Golden Rule sails into Port Jeff Harbor

BY AIDAN JOHNSON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The Golden Rule, a peace ship operated by Veterans for Peace, docked in Port Jeff on Friday, May 26, encouraging conversations about ending wars, raising environmental consciousness and promoting nuclear disarmament.

Over a dozen people welcomed the vessel into Port Jeff Harbor. As it arrived, crew members, led by Captain Steve Buck, symbolically asked permission to dock and come ashore from members of the Setalcott Nation. This Native American tribe had initially inhabited the land.

through the Freedom of Information Act, all documents related to Ms. Sheprow’s petition filing,” the statement said. “Upon discovering several defects, including the lack of a cover page, resident signatures on blank petition forms and other inconsistencies, a challenge to Ms. Sheprow’s election documents was filed. The SCBOE reviewed the challenge and found the deficiencies identified to not only be fatal, but also incurable.”

In the same statement, Snaden commented on the outcome: “While this decision will be disappointing to some, we should take pride that the law and process were followed. I have the utmost respect for the integrity of the bipartisan SCBOE and the decisions they make. Following the rules with transparency and integrity are the

Myrna Gordon, a member of the North Country Peace Group and coordinator of the docking ceremony, said plans for the event were in the works for over four months.

NCPG had also collaborated with the South Country Peace Group and the Conscience Bay Quakers, among other local peace groups.

Veterans for Peace were looking for a North

hallmarks of good government.”

The Suffolk County Board of Elections declined to comment for this story, referring inquiries to the Village of Port Jefferson clerk’s office.

In a phone interview, Village clerk Barbara Sakovich said she was not involved in the decisions leading up to the ruling, maintaining that her position is strictly administrative.

“A mayoral challenge was submitted, and it then was brought to the Board of Elections,” she said. “The commissioners met, and the determination was made by them, not at the village level.”

Sakovich said the appeals process will be open until the end of business on Friday, saying, “I’m assuming if there is any change, the Board of Elections will notify me.”

Shore harbor to dock their ship. When their original plans to bring their boat to Northport didn’t work out, Port Jefferson was suggested.

“I jumped on board and said this is the most beautiful harbor on the North Shore,” Gordon said. “We have a park. We have all the facilities. We have an agreeable government who will willingly accept the boat for a few days.”

After docking, Catherine Green, a representative of Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn (D-Setauket), read a proclamation in which the Suffolk County Legislature recognized the efforts of the crew of the Golden Rule in the cause of peace on earth. Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) also presented a proclamation on behalf of Brookhaven, establishing the date as Veterans for Peace Day.

One-on-one with Lauren Sheprow

Port Jeff trustee on her earlier bid for mayor A12

The Golden Rule, a peace ship manned by Veterans for Peace, enters Port Jefferson Harbor. Photo by Aidan Johnson

With Hochul’s asylum plans uncertain, policymakers weigh in as county issues emergency order

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

A cloud of mystery hangs over Stony Brook University and Suffolk County municipalities as Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) contemplates whether to house asylum seekers at state university campuses.

Spectrum News NY1 reported last week the governor was exploring housing asylum seekers entering the state across three SUNY campuses, including SBU. The governor’s office has yet to clarify its plans as of press time.

New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R-Riverhead) said she has been in contact with the governor’s office. According to Giglio’s contact there, Marissa Espinoza, the proposal to house asylum seekers at SBU “is not happening.”

“I’m hoping that that’s not the plan because we really need those dorms for students,” Giglio said. “The taxpayers just can’t afford to take care of more people. We can barely afford to take care of our veterans and homeless.”

In the face of uncertainty and preparing for the prospect of new migrants, Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine (R) also expressed apprehensions about the proposed plans.

Though acknowledging the town does not have jurisdiction over state property, the Brookhaven supervisor referred to potential movements of

asylum seekers into SBU as “probably a mistake.”

“I’m concerned about the impact on the school district,” Romaine told TBR News Media in an exclusive interview. “Twenty to 30 years ago, you had single men coming up here and sending money back home. Now, they’re coming up as a family.”

He added, “I’m concerned about the impact that would have on the Three Village school district which, to my understanding, is laying off teachers this school year.”

Ivan Larios, manager of organizing and strategy for the Long Island branch of the New York Immigration Coalition, has been among a vocal group of immigration proponents advocating that Suffolk County welcomes asylum seekers. [See story, “Republican lawmakers, immigration advocates clash over asylum seekers,” May 25, TBR News Media.]

In a phone interview, he outlined the reasons for considering asylum requests, appealing to policymakers on humanitarian grounds.

“People are coming here because they’re running away from persecution, political unrest and violence,” he said. “Immigrants are already a part of our community, and they make Long Island richer and better.”

Giglio contended that Suffolk County is illprepared for the challenges of providing services to asylum seekers.

“We have people that are living in the woods

resources and attention from already-vulnerable communities across the state.

“There are rumors that asylum seekers have displaced veterans or homeless people in other localities around the state, but these are lies,” the immigration advocate said. “These are lies that have been perpetrated to create division.”

But, he added, “There are issues taking place with, for example, housing, but … we believe elected officials should be working in finding solutions instead of saying, ‘No, we can’t take more people.’”

in encampments across the street from our parks,”

in encampments across the street from our parks,” the assemblywoman said. “Our hospitals are not ready for it, the need for services that we can’t provide. We can barely take care of the homeless people we have now.”

Romaine, who is running for Suffolk County executive in November’s election, when asked whether the county is prepared for an influx of new migrants, said “no.”

“I sympathize with asylum seekers,” Romaine said, “But I am concerned about migrants coming to this country without adequate preparation, and I don’t believe we have adequate preparation.”

Larios suggested arguments advanced against asylum seekers can be deceptive. He maintained that asylum seekers are not diverting public

Meanwhile, County Executive Steve Bellone (D) issued an emergency order, May 26, regarding the continuing asylum-seeker crisis. In a press release he said, “Today, I issued an emergency order as New York City continues to grapple with a shortage of available housing options for families and individuals fleeing desperate circumstances and legally seeking asylum. We remain supportive of Governor Hochul’s coordinated and humane approach to addressing this crisis and this emergency order serves to protect the local communities from bearing any costs associated with the potential arrival of asylum seekers.”

The emergency order repeats the county’s calls “for a coordinated approach in which New York State will serve as the lead agency, working to identify potential federal and state sites to temporarily house asylum seekers,” the release added.

Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine, left, and New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio. File photos by Raymond Janis

American Legion hosts annual Memorial Day service, honors Steven J. Crowley

BY SOFIA LEVORCHICK DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Members from American Legion Post 432 in Port Jefferson Station gathered at Steven J. Crowley Memorial Park in Terryville on Memorial Day, May 29, honoring and remembering America’s veterans.

Every year, the post spotlights Port Jefferson native Steven J. Crowley – the man for whom the park is dedicated. Crowley served as a security officer in the U.S. Marine Corps and died in the line of duty in 1979 when a student riot attacked the American embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan. He was just 20 years old.

The ceremony began with the color guard as Post 432 members saluted in silence, provoking a solemn and patriotic spirit. Edward Haran, commander of Post 432, delivered the dedication, honoring those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

“May the ceremonies of today deepen our reverence for our old friends and comrades, especially Corporal Crowley,” the post commander said. “Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to our country and its flag. Let us resolve by word indeed to emphasize the privilege and duty of patriotism.”

He then welcomed the Crowley family to place a wreath and flowers in honor of their fallen

loved one.

A legion member’s trumpet let out the somber tune of “Taps” as the American flag was lowered. Haran concluded with, “To all those who stand with us today, you will now consecrate yourselves with us to emulate the sacred service that those who rest in the heroes’ [graves] may not have died in vain,” he said.

After the ceremony, Mike Williams, chaplain of Post 432, discussed why this annual service is held in Crowley’s honor. “Crowley is prominent in our post, gave his life for our country, and we must remember and honor him,” Williams said, emphasizing that Crowley was a local man whose influence and legacy are still felt within the post and greater community.

Haran advised those in attendance to seek to learn from Crowley’s example of service. “I think what they can learn is the sacrifice that he, and others like him, made for our country and all the wars,” he said. “Just keep them in our minds and offer prayers for the families of the veterans.”

The legion members also reflected on the meaning of Memorial Day. Williams referred to the day as a moment to reflect upon and honor America’s fallen.

“Memorial Day is a day of solemn remembrance of all those who gave their lives to our country,” he said.

Haran noted the personal significance of the

day. “I lost a number of friends during Vietnam,” he said. Memorial Day “gives me pause to go back and think about them and offer a prayer for them.”

Before the American Legion members left to attend another memorial service in Port Jefferson and the Memorial Day Parade in Setauket, Bruce Miller, second vice-commander of Post 432 and Vietnam War veteran, spoke on behalf of the Steven J. Crowley ceremony, emphasizing the value of appreciating and

honoring fallen heroes and the legacies they have left for the nation.

“It is important to remember these people on this day — and all days — for they have sacrificed much,” he said.

Members of American Legion Post 432’s Ladies Auxiliary, above, and color guard, right, during Memorial Day services on Monday, May 29. Photos courtesy Bruce Miller

A heartfelt thank you to all the participating businesses for their support of the The Greater Port Je erson Chamber of Commerce, The Village of Port Je erson, TBR News Media and the Bridgeport-Port Je erson Ferry.

Remembering Vietnam: a forgotten generation of veterans

BY RICH ACRITELLI DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

“Today, America can regain the sense of pride that existed before Vietnam. But it cannot be achieved by refighting a war that is finished as far as America is concerned.”

— President Gerald Ford (R), April 23, 1975, on the collapse of South Vietnam

In one of the most unsettling moments in American history, April 30, 1975, marked the day when the South Vietnamese capital of Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese Army, effectively ending the Vietnam War.

The fall

In 1973, President Richard Nixon (R) made peace with North Vietnam, withdrawing a oncemassive military force and leaving behind about 5,000 staff, support and military security members to protect American expatriates still in the region.

It was a dangerous time to be an American. By 1975, the Communist regime in Hanoi understood the U.S. would not recommit forces to South Vietnam, an ill-fated government without American support.

The North Vietnamese and Viet Cong armies moved swiftly, penetrating South Vietnam’s cities and villages. Americans watched in disbelief as South Vietnamese cities fell, one after another.

While Nixon had warned that the U.S. would oppose any breach of the peace, Ford refused to redeploy soldiers and resources to South Vietnam. With over 58,000 Americans killed in Vietnam, he believed his nation had had enough.

From the end of World War II to 1975, America was tied to this Southeast Asian state both militarily and diplomatically. Now, all was lost.

Over 7,000 people were flown out of Saigon before it collapsed. Under enemy fire, helicopters quickly ferried out American personnel and refugees. The last helicopters containing the staff members of the U.S. Embassy watched as North Vietnamese convoys entered Saigon.

Heroes forgotten

It was a painful time for this country. Torn apart by years of strife, political unrest, economic instability and Watergate, the fall of Vietnam was the final stroke. Vietnam War

veterans — to this day — endure the pain of heavy scrutiny for their efforts.

Ridiculed, mocked and belittled at the time for their participation in the war, they are determined to ensure that American service members who have fought since are treated with dignity and respect.

Joe Cognitore witnessed these final stages of fighting, recalling the fall of Saigon as a “dark” chapter. He served in Vietnam from 1970-71 as a platoon sergeant, leading other air cavalrymen through the jungles of Vietnam and Cambodia.

With the presence of the Viet Cong always near, he guided his soldiers through “search and destroy” missions against an enemy that lurked in underground tunnels, exercised frequent jungle ambushes and persisted through massive bombing raids.

Despite the traumas of war, in some ways it was even worse when the soldiers came home. The nation showed little appreciation for their sacrifices.

Paying tribute

For years, Cognitore hustled as a representative for Coca-Cola, then raised a family in Rocky Point. It was only during the First Gulf War of 1990-91 that he became involved in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, offering support to veterans returning from war.

Today, Cognitore serves as commander of Rocky Point VFW Post 6249, advocating for the over 200,000 Vietnam War vets across New York state. He represents a class of veterans continually working to aid those who have fought in past and present conflicts.

These individuals work untiringly, helping to honor the veterans who fought the Global War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan by organizing care packages, welcoming ceremonies and golf outings to support U.S. veterans and their families. Such devoted people do what they can to carry on the tradition of honoring veterans.

This past Memorial Day, Monday, community members were able to emulate this compassionate example.

Law O ce of Tara Scully PC

646 Main Street, Ste 2, Port Je erson

631-509–4911

BAKERY Dortoni Bakery & Cafe

125 W. Broadway, Port Je erson

631-473–7900

CHURCH Harborview Christian Church

315 E. Main Street, Port Je erson

631-473-9229

COMMUNITY NEWS e Port Times Record -

TBR News Media

185 Route 25A, Setauket • 631-751-7744

FINANCIAL/INSURANCE

Stephanie Sgroi State Farm

612 Rt. 112, Port Je erson Station 631-473–6941

Su olk Credit Union 200 Belle Terre Road (St. Charles Hospital), Port Je erson 631-924–8000

GALLERY e Atelier at Flower eld

2 Flower eld Suite 15, St. James 631-250-9009

GIFTS

Celtic Apothecary

128 Main Street, Port Je erson 631-403-4202

Sea Creations 134 Main Street , Port Je erson

631-473–8388

e Soap Box

18 Chandler Square, Port Je erson

631-509–1424

GOURMET Southdown Co ee

440 Main Street, Port Je erson

e Spice & Tea Exchange

22 Chandler Square Port Je erson

631-828-4445

GROCERY

Village Grocery

328 Main St., Port Je erson

631-476-0107

HEALTH & WELLNESS

CVS Pharmacy 464 Main Street, Port Je erson

631-473–2914

HOSPITALS

Mather Hospital

75 North Country Road, Port Je erson

631-473-1320

St. Charles Hospital

200 Belle Terre Road, Port Je erson

631-474-6000

ICE CREAM & CONFECTIONS

Kilwins 109D Main St., Port Je erson 631-509-6555

Roger’s Frigate 99 Main St., Port Je erson 631-474-8888

LANDSCAPING/ LANDSCAPING SUPPLY

Jos.M.Tro a Materials Corporation 70 Comsewogue Road Suite 9, East Setauket 631-928-4665

Organically Green 703 Main Street, Port Je erson 631-467-7999

MARINE

Port Je erson Yacht Club One Surf Ave., Port Je erson 631-473–9650

MUSEUM

Long Island Explorium 101 E. Broadway, Port Je erson 631-331–3277

PETS/VETERINARIANS Animal Health & Wellness 150 Main Street, East Setauket 631-751–2200

Countryside Animal Hospital 544 West Broadway, Port Je erson 631-473–0942

REAL ESTATE

Douglas Elliman Real Estate 300 Main Street, East Setauket 631-751–6000

Howard Hanna | Coach Realtors 140 East Main Street, Port Je erson 631-928-5484

Howard Hanna | Coach Realtors 1099 Rt. 25A, Stony Brook 631-751-0303

Maria Palmar Properties 202 East Main Street, Port Je erson 631-774-2264

RESTAURANTS/CAFÉS

Curry Club@SaGhar 111 W. Broadway, Port Je erson 631-751-4845

Ferryman’s Grille at Danfords 25 East Broadway, Port Je erson 631-928–5200

Grumpy Jack’s 28 Oakland Avenue, Port Je erson 631-642–1942

L Local’s

E. Main Street, Port Je erson 631-509–0627

Pasta

East Main Street, Port Je erson 631-331–5335

Pie

Main Street, Port Je erson 631-331–4646 PJ Lobster House & Fish Market 134 Main Street Harbor Square Mall, Port Je erson 631-473–1143

ReVival by Toast 242 East Main Street, Port Je erson 631-480-8700

Ruvo 105 Wynn Lane, Port Je erson 631-476-3800

Salsa Salsa 142 Main

Rich Acritelli is a history teacher at Rocky Point High School and adjunct professor at Suffolk County Community College.

Crew members on the USS Durham desperately bring Vietnamese refugees onboard. Photo from the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

The following incidents have been reported by Su olk County Police:

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Central Islip bank robbed

Suffolk County Police Major Case Unit

Detectives are investigating a bank robbery that occurred in Central Islip on May 30.

The man pictured above entered Bethpage Federal Credit Union, located at 233 South Research Place, at 9:36 a.m. and passed a note to a teller demanding cash. The teller complied and the suspect fled on foot with cash northbound through the parking lot. The robber was described as 5 feet 6 to 5 feet 7 inches tall with dark skin. He was wearing sweatpants, a plaid hooded sweatshirt and a medical mask.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on the robbery to call the Major Case Unit at 631-852-6555.

Medford woman killed in Islandia crash

Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are investigating a crash that killed a woman and seriously injured her passenger on May 29 in Islandia.

Erika Figueroa was driving a 2010 Ford Edge eastbound on the Long Island Expressway, between exit 58 and exit 59, with her boyfriend Juan Reyes in the front passenger seat, when the vehicle left the roadway, struck the center median, spun around, and struck the right guardrail at approximately 2:40 a.m.

Figueroa, 26, of Medford, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where she was pronounced dead.Reyes, 34, of Medford, was transported to the same hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The vehicle was impounded for a safety check.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on the crash to 631-854-8452.

Wanted for Petit Larceny

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a man who allegedly stole alcohol from Lake Liquor, located at 299 Hawkins Ave. in Ronkonkoma, at approximately 12:30 p.m. on May 20.

Motorcyclist killed in Rocky Point crash

Suffolk County Police Seventh Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that killed a motorcyclist in Rocky Point on May 25. Timothy Ross was operating a 2007 Honda motorcycle southbound on Rocky Point Yaphank Road, north of Whisky Road, when the motorcycle struck rumble strips on the edge of the roadway, causinghim to lose control of the vehicle, which left the roadway and crashed into a tree, at 10:52 p.m. Ross, 19, of Shirley, was pronounced dead at the scene by a physician assistant from the Office of theSuffolk County Medical Examiner. The motorcycle was impounded for a safety check and the investigation is continuing. Detectives are asking anyone with information on the crash to call 631-852-8752.

Suspects sought in Medford rental scheme

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the people that rented an apartment they did not own in Medford. Flyers were posted at local laundromats, listing an apartment for rent on Sipp Avenue. Two families paid a man several thousand dollars each to rent the apartment on March 14. Detectives believe the suspect is working with another man and woman. The suspect was driving a dark colored sedan.

— COMPILED BY HEIDI SUTTON

Su olk County Crime Stoppers o ers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Su olk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS.

Bank robbery suspect Photo from SCPD

Do you recognize this man? Photos from SCPD

We are being told by our recreational fishermen and boat captains that this rule change will greatly raise the mortality rate of striped bass causing an increase in catchand-release deaths. This will obviously have the reverse effect on efforts to increase the stock.

Additionally, we have been informed that the for-hire industry utilizes less than 5% of the striped bass stock. The economy of our region is driven by the agricultural and fishing industries. The rich history of our fishermen is a legacy that attracts many tourists and enthusiasts to our area. It will become extremely difficult to encourage would-be customers to use charter and party boats with such a narrow window of striped bass possession.

We are asking that before any emergency

measures are adopted by the DEC, a careful review is done based on input from our local fishermen and captains. As you are well aware, our fishing industry is already struggling with difficult quotas, the high cost of fuel, the high property and docking costs in our area, among other challenges. We are hopeful that you will put any plans on hold until all stakeholders are brought to the table and have the opportunity to share their input and concerns.

Please contact our offices if you have any questions or need additional information. We look forward to your expeditious response.

NYS Sen. Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) NYS Assemblyman Fred Thiele (D-Sag Harbor)

LEGALS

COURTCOUNTYOFSUFFOLK DeutscheBankNationalTrustCompany,As

MortgageLoanTrust2006-, TrusteeForLongBeach

Fumusoa/k/aJoelG. PlaintiffAGAINSTJoel

PursuanttoaJudgmentof Fumuso,etal.,Defendant(s)

ForeclosureandSaleduly

BrookhavenTownHall,1 atpublicauctionatthe undersignedRefereewillsell enteredJuly13,2018,I,the

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onJune14,

beingintheTownof erected,situate,lyingand buildingsandimprovements parcelofland,withthe thatcertainplotpieceor MountSinai,NY11766.All knownas5HemlockRoad, 2023at10:30AM,premises

Brookhaven,CountyofSuffolk andStateofNewYork,

Section:211.00Block:

01.00Lot:048.000District:

0200.Approximateamount

plusinterestandcosts. ofjudgment$598,156.25

Premiseswillbesoldsubject toprovisionsoffiled

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beconductedinaccordance aforementionedauctionwill

COVID-19Protocolslocated withtheSUFFOLKCounty

ontheOfficeofCourt

Administration(OCA)website (https://ww2.nycourts. gov/Admin/oca.shtml)and

assuchallpersonsmust

complywithsocialdistancing, wearingmasksand

screeningpracticesineffect

atthetimeofthisforeclosure sale.Annette

Eaderesto,Esq.,Referee

Fein,Such&Crane,LLP28

EastMainStreet,Suite

1800Rochester,NY14614

SPSNY43076191

1434105/114xptr

NOTICEOFSALE

SUPREMECOURTCOUNTY

Defendant(s). BORISUCK,JR.,ETAL., Plaintiff,vs.JOHNP. TRUST,SERIES2016-CTT, TRUSTEEFORTHERMAC CAPACITYBUTSOLELYAS NOTINITSINDIVIDUAL NATIONALASSOCIATION, OFSUFFOLK,U.S.BANK

PursuanttoanOder

AmendingCaption,Confirming Referee’sReportand

JudgmentofForeclosure

andSaledulyenteredon

March11,2022,I,the

BrookhavenTownHall,1 atpublicauctionatthe undersignedRefereewillsell

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onJune28,

SuffolkandStateofNew ofBrookhaven,Countyof lyingandbeingintheTown thereonerected,situate, buildingsandimprovements parcelofland,withthe thatcertainplot,pieceor Farmingville,NY11738.All knownas45PowellAvenue, 2023at9:30a.m.,premises

York,District0200,Section

654.00,Block04.00and

Lot003.001.Approximate

filedJudgmentIndex# soldsubjecttoprovisionsof andcosts.Premiseswillbe $579,640.72plusinterest amountofjudgmentis

613962/2019.Cashwillnot

sale. followedattheforeclosure safetyprotocolswillbe beaccepted.COVID-19

PatriciaBlake,Esq.,Referee

Knuckles,Komosinski&

Road,Suite590,Elmsford, Manfro,LLP,565Taxter

Plaintiff NY10523,Attorneysfor

1442105/254xptr

NOTICEOFSALE

JoaquinBonilla;Madelin AGAINST Plaintiff NationalAssociation, JPMorganChaseBank, COUNTYOFSUFFOLK SUPREMECOURT

Rivera,Defendant(s)

PursuanttoaJudgmentof

BrookhavenTownHall,1 atpublicauctionatthe undersignedRefereewillsell enteredApril9,2018I,the ForeclosureandSaleduly

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onJune14,

2023at11:00AM,premises

knownas1700WaveAvenue,Medford,NY11763.All

York,District0200Section ofSuffolk,StateofNew TownofBrookhaven,County beingatMedford,inthe erected,situate,lyingand buildingsandimprovements parcelofland,withthe thatcertainplotpieceor

filedJudgmentIndex# soldsubjecttoprovisionsof andcosts.Premiseswillbe $483,500.39plusinterest amountofjudgment 001.000.Approximate 632.00Block07.00Lot

totheCOVID-19Policies willbeconductedpursuant

JudicialDistrict. establishedbytheTenth ofForeclosedProperty ConcerningPublicAuctions

Referee JeffreyHerzberg,Esq.,

LLC Shapiro,DiCaro&Barak, LOGSLegalGroupLLPf/k/a

Attorney(s)forthePlaintiff

175MileCrossingBoulevard

(877)430-4792 Rochester,NewYork14624

Dated:April12,2023

Forsaleinformation,please

visitwww.Auction.comor

call(800)280-2832

1442205/114xptr

PublicNotice

Inc.VillageofPortJefferson

COLLECTIONOFTAXES

PLEASETAKENOTICEthat

forthefiscalyear theVillageofPortJefferson thetaxrollandwarrantfor

2023-2024hasbeencompleted andisfiledinthe

clerk’sofficeforthepurposes ofcollectingproperty

VillageofPortJefferson. taxesintheIncorporated

Taxesmaybepaidonline,at

https://portjeff.com/ payments oratPortJeffersonVillageHall,121

WestBroadway,PortJefferson, NewYorkbetween

FridayfromJune1,2023, 4:00pm,Mondaythrough thehoursof9:00amand

throughJuly1,2023,without penalty.

thetaxisnotpaid. eachadditionalmonththat (oranypartthereof)for anadditional1%permonth anypartthereof)ofJulyand penaltyforthemonth(or 2023,willbeassesseda5% TaxespaidafterJuly1,

BarbaraSakovich

June1,2023 VillageClerk

1484906/11xptr

TownOfficeComplex,One locatedattheBrookhaven BrookhavenTownHallLobby aloudintheTownof publiclyopenedandread

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NewYork,11738,3rd

projectonthedateas Floor,forthefollowing

indicatedat11:00am:

BID#23055

TOWNOFBROOKHAVEN

HOGFARMWATERSERVICE

BIDDUEDATE:

JUNE22,2023

Specificationsfortheabovereferenced bidwillbe

availablebeginningJune1,

2023.

PreferredMethod

- Access website:Municipal

linkforBids. (brookhavenny.gov):clickon Market|Brookhaven,NY

- Followdirectionstoregisteranddownloaddocument.

- Questions mustbesubmittedinwritingtothe

followinge-mail:

PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov

Thisprojectisbeingsuppor ted,inwholeorinpart,

byfederalawardnumber

U.S.Departmentofthe TownofBrookhavenbythe SLRFP1985awardedtothe

Treasury.

TheTownofBrookhaven

informalitiesor allbidsandtowaiveany anddeclareinvalidanyor reservestherighttoreject

irregularitiesintheproposals received,allinthebest

interestsoftheTown.

TheTownofBrookhaven

businessesandHUDSection minorityandwomen-owned welcomesandencourages

3businessestoparticipate

inthebiddingprocess.

TownofBrookhaven

KathleenC.Koppenhoefer, PurchasingDivision

DeputyCommissioner

(631)451-6252

1487106/11xptr

Fa rmingville, NY 1 1 7 38, for the following item(s) on the dates indicated:

B id # 23056 – Plastic B ags-June 6 , 2 0 23

B id # 23057 – Portable Pitching Mounds & Replacement La unch Pads--June 1 5, 2 023

S pecifications for the abov ere ferenced bids will be available beginning June 1, 2 023.

Preferred Method

- Access website:Municipal

Market|Brookhaven,NY

onlinkforBids. (brookhavenny.gov):click

- Followdirectionstoregisteranddownloaddocument.

- Questions mustbesubmittedinwritingtothe

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OUR CLIENTS SAY

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Left behind? Long Island feels the pinch of high costs, housing shortages

BY AIDAN JOHNSON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Decades-old fears over a possible Long Island “brain drain,” or people in their 20s and 30s leaving the region, have not been quelled. Instead, some are worried that the brain drain has spread to other age demographics as well.

much on a fixed income,” he said in a phone interview. “My wife’s been working, and her salary has gotten better over the last few years … but with the rising amount of taxes and everything else that’s going on on Long Island, it’s pretty much going to be unsustainable.”

HOUSING

Martin Cantor, director at the Long Island Center for Socio-Economic Policy, suggests every age demographic is looking to escape the Island.

“The young don’t come and stay,” he said. “Most kids, if they go away to college, don’t come back. The middle class is leaving because it’s too expensive.”

While some suggest that this may be due to a lack of housing options, Cantor is not entirely on board with this diagnosis. “There is a general feeling out there that they want to blame people leaving [on the] housing options and, to an extent, yeah,” but this doesn’t paint the complete picture, he said. “It’s because we’re just too darned expensive to live here, plain and simple.”

Sal Pitti, former vice president of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association, is moving to Florida. His case exemplifies how even prominent local leaders feel the squeeze of high costs, fleeing the communities they helped build and grow due to financial pressures.

“I’m retired from the NYPD, so I’m pretty

Instead of waiting a few more years, Pitti and his wife decided to take advantage of the recent high spot in the housing market and were able to sell their home relatively quickly.

Problems also arise with Long Island’s minimum wage, which currently stands at $15 — the same as for New York City and Westchester, with the rest of the state at $14.20. Even though the Long Island rate is more than double the $7.25 national minimum wage, it is still not nearly enough to afford a two-bedroom apartment at fair market rent.

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s 2021 Out of Reach report, the minimum hourly wage necessary to afford a twobedroom apartment in the Nassau-Suffolk HUD Metro Fair Market Rents Area is $39.13. This means that two local adults working full time on minimum wage could still not afford an apartment.

In an interview, Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) described his conversation with one homeowner who, along with her husband, works a minimum wage job. To afford the mortgage, she had to work two shifts.

The simultaneous problems of low wages and high rents represent a conundrum for policymakers. The interplay of local and societal factors can make this puzzle even more problematic.

“I don’t know what the answer is,” Kornreich said. “I don’t know how we value work in a way that allows people to do important work that’s societally vital” while also paying workers “enough that they can afford just to live a basic existence.”

While Long Island’s minimum wage will continue to increase — set to reach $17 an hour by 2026 — that would still not be enough to afford a two-bedroom apartment.

Village of Port Jefferson Mayor Margot Garant described her administration’s efforts to cater for affordable housing options.

“There is nothing that we’re going to do to stop building more workforce housing as long as I’m involved,” Garant said.

The village mayor described the heavy demand for affordable housing, with roughly 1,300 applications being submitted for Conifer Realty’s Port Jefferson Crossing project in Upper Port that offers 45 apartments based on the median income in the area.

“It just shows the need for clean, affordable

workforce housing,” Garant said.

While new affordable housing units may partially help alleviate some of the housing shortages throughout the region, it is not a solution to the overarching problem of high expenses.

To ease economic pressures on Long Island, Cantor urged policymakers to worry about costs and cut spending where possible.

“Nobody is worrying about costs,” he said, suggesting regional income taxes replace property taxes. “This way, people pay based upon what they earn, not the value of their assets.”

Eye on the Street: Thinking about fleeing Long Island or not

BY CAROLYN SACKSTEIN DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

In downtown Port Jefferson Saturday, May 27, we asked the passersby if they had ever considered moving away from Long Island and if so, why? Some had actually moved away and returned. Others said family and connection to the place they called “home” were contributing factors for staying on Long Island. While some people cited the high cost of living and taxes, only one native Long Islander committed to leaving the Island for this reason.

— Photos by Carolyn Sackstein John Stoldt with daughter Jocelyn, 4, Mount Sinai

“We talk about either South Carolina or Florida.” He continued by saying that his wife “went to college down in Miami and she loved it, plus we like the warmer weather. Ultimately, it is because of the high taxes and the expenses here on Long Island. And there is less opportunity for jobs here for what I do. I manage warehouses, micro-fulfillment centers, distribution centers. There are not many on Long

Island, so I have to commute into the city. That makes it difficult for a work-life balance.”

Michelle and John Chiappino, Smithtown

Michelle said, “I was born and raised in Smithtown, then I lived in Port Jefferson for 15 years. We lived in Nesconset, and now we are back in Smithtown.” Michelle explained they stay here “because it’s home, I really have no desire to go someplace else.”

John added, “It’s home. Leaving Long Island — there’s nowhere really to go. All our family is here.”

Nancy Volpi, Port Jefferson

“My business brought me here from Albertson 20 years ago. The shop, Carry-All Wine & Liquors, was in Mount Sinai. I still see a lot of my customers.”

When asked what keeps her here, she added, “My son. He lives around the corner from me.” When asked if she ever thought about moving, she said, “Yes, I have a daughter in Knoxville, Tennessee

and a son in Jupiter, Florida. Maybe someday the family will get back together.”

Larry Bramer, Shirley

“I have always lived in Shirley.” When asked what keeps him there, he replied, “The pay, the jobs. There are a lot of opportunities here.” When asked if he ever considered leaving, he replied, “I did leave for about a year. I went to Tampa Bay, Florida. It was beautiful. It was just very hard to survive there. We found work. My wife and I went there for a new start, but it was just hard. There are just a lot of opportunities in New York. That’s why we came back here.”

Maureen Corrdeliso, Mount Sinai

“We are connected with friends. Our medical care is really good here — that’s a big thing — between the two hospitals [in Port Jeff] and Stony Brook. And we are close to the city. I like Long Island. I have spent most of my life here. It’s home. If you go somewhere, you have to start off anew. I don’t want to do that.”

Karla Jimenez, Stony Brook

“I am from Mexico City. My sister moved here, and I kind of just followed her. I have been here 25 years. I finished high school here, and then got my associates [degree] from Suffolk [County Community College].”

When asked if she would leave she replied, “No. I married young and have three kids. My oldest is about to [attend] The Stony Brook School. We are home schooling the younger children. They will go to The Stony Brook School. I just like the way we are set. We get the four seasons. We have the beach, and we have the city.”

Joseph Lubrano, Shirley

“Yeah, we are going to move away when I retire [and] get Social Security. We already have a house in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. It is on the western border. Taxes! I can’t afford to retire here. $13,000-a-year here. There, it is only $1,500. How do you compare?”

Village of Port Jefferson Mayor Margot Garant suggests Conifer Realty’s Port Jefferson Crossing project, pictured above, may help ease workforce housing shortages. File photo by Raymond Janis

One-on-one with Lauren Sheprow

First-term trustee seeks top village post

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Margot Garant, a seven-term incumbent, is stepping down as mayor of the Village of Port Jefferson to head the Democratic ticket for Town of Brookhaven supervisor. In an open contest, trustee Lauren Sheprow and Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden are vying to fill Garant’s seat.

Less than a year into her first term on the village’s Board of Trustees, Sheprow, who is running as a write-in candidate as of now, has her sights set on the office once occupied by her father, Hal, who served as mayor from 1977-91 with a one-term break.

In an exclusive interview, Sheprow offered her plans for communications, East Beach, parking and more.

What would be your top priority for the coming term, if elected?

There are several priorities. Fiscal responsibility is number one.

My first step will be to establish a finance and audit committee. In this village, the mayor has decided to be the finance commissioner, but there is no committee assisting the finance commissioner. The finance commissioner is working with the treasurer, and [they are] doing it themselves.

I support creating a committee of CPAs and people who work in finance who can inform our process, coming in with ideas, suggestions and opportunities to shape our budget a little bit differently — a little healthier and more disciplined.

Job two is establishing a board of ethics. It’s something that is highly recommended by New York Village Law.

Another aspect is being resident centric, having two-way communication with the residents. Right now, the two-way communication with the residents is once a month at a [general] meeting [of the village board].

We need a brand-new, professional municipal website. When you use it now, it’s so difficult. If you go to the Town of Brookhaven’s website, it’s so easy to navigate. That’s what I want to see for Port Jeff.

We can also do well to start listening to our chamber [of commerce] members and the Business Improvement District, hearing their feedback. There’s a lot of opportunity for success in how we do business with the merchants.

county club. I was interested in improving the relationship with the licensee and the member experience up there.

I started a task force made up of some members and a nonmember resident. We started meeting with management and came up with some real opportunities for improvement.

They changed the menu to be more community and family oriented. We discussed having socials and other events for members, and they ended up implementing that. There are still a lot of challenges that exist with that relationship, but it’s improving because of the task force.

Right now, we’re waiting to hear whether or not we’re getting that federal money [$3.75 million]. There’s some back-and-forth, I think, between FEMA and us.

I’d like to see the tennis program come back — and not just with two courts. I’d like to see six courts, at least, so we can welcome our tennis membership back. I’d also like to see the pickleball program come together and thrive.

What would be the best way to design that? We have engineers draw drawings, but shouldn’t we be relying on a real designer that has worked on country club designs before?

Let’s get someone in there who knows what they’re doing, looking critically at the space they have to work with and making the best recommendations based on their experience with other facilities.

The first thing we should do is hire a planner. We need a senior planner who can advise, direct and inquire. I’m not an engineer, architect or planner. But there are some very good engineers, architects and planners out there, and we need them on staff. It is our role to hire those positions.

I think we can commission a study to look at open space. How would you treat green space? You first have to understand what green space actually exists, and then get our planner and engineer to take a look at how to address these things.

The opportunities are there. We need to understand what they are and then get the advice of a senior planner to figure out how to move this village forward.

How can the village alleviate its parking capacity challenges, balancing the competing interests of residents, businesses and tourists?

I’ve been speaking with business owners, restaurant owners and residents, and there is a strong need for a parking committee. We need to understand what the business owners are seeing, hear their feedback and try to act upon it.

The parking committee should be made up primarily of business owners, but you also need residents who can weigh in on aesthetics and realworld experiences.

Note to our readers

We intend to interview each of the declared candidates for village office, starting with those running for trustee, then mayor. In keeping with past practice, we first interview incumbents seeking reelection, followed by nonincumbents, selected alphabetically.

If a big decision is to be made about a parking garage, then residents need to be heard on that. What is your preferred method for public engagement?

I’m enjoying the face-to-face connections with people. I’m learning so much about the village, and people are so open to speaking with me right now. That’s my favorite way to communicate with people and engage.

If we have messages that we need to communicate in a broader sense, an upgrade to our website is essential. Sharing information through The [Port] eReport is good — it’s a good resource. But, again, it’s talking at people, not listening to people.

I feel we need to start suggestion boxes, surveys and phone banking. We need a community relations effort that hasn’t existed since I’ve been around.

All these things — code enforcement, parking, engagement with the school district — are all community relations functions that, if we do well, we’ll have residents feel they’re listened to and have a responsive government. That’s the goal. What is your professional background, and how does it apply to the role of a village mayor?

I have been a public relations professional for pretty much my whole career. My most recent position was as the chief media relations officer at Stony Brook University, where I worked for 16 years. Prior to that, I was the public relations director at Mather Hospital for four years.

I consider my experience at Stony Brook the most illuminating. Stony Brook is a campus of about 44,000 people between students, staff and hospital employees. They have all of the infrastructure that a municipality has.

As I was working at Stony Brook, I was responsible for communicating a lot of the things that were going on at campus to the media. Everything that I was involved with there and helped communicate is very similar to what is happening in the Village of Port Jefferson. It’s similar in scope — Stony Brook was just much greater in size.

While at Stony Brook, I interacted with representatives from the federal, state, Suffolk County and town governments, building a lot of relationships with people in those jurisdictions. I was privy to how they did business and operated, so I feel very prepared.

When I became a trustee, I was appointed liaison to the food and beverage licensee at the

What is the role of the village board in overseeing new developments and redevelopment projects?

We also have to look at building a parking structure. They have parking structures that are architecturally appealing and can adhere to the architectural integrity of the community. That’s a design element, but the question of where comes into play.

Editor’s note: This interview was conducted before the Suffolk County Board of Elections removed Sheprow’s name from the mayoral ballot May 30. See cover story and her statement page A22.

If elected, how do you intend to help guide East Beach bluff stabilization efforts and maximize the use of the village-owned Port Jefferson Country Club?

Port Jeff Village trustee Lauren Sheprow on her run for mayor. Sketch by Kyle Horne: @kylehorneart • kylehorneart.com

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Assistant Secondary Principal

The successful candidate should possess: Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record of successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social-emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate.

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Administrative Opening Monticello Central School

High School Principal

The Monticello CSD is seeking forward thinking and dynamic School Building Principal who can lead MCSD’s highly engaged faculty, staff, parents, students, and community. The successful candidate will have a vision of educational excellence, be highly motivated, and demonstrates an ability to impact student learning.

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Letters to the Editor Editorial

Plug Long Island’s ‘brain drain’

Without intervention, the current youth exodus from Long Island will have crippling effects generations from now.

Here on Long Island, we excel at educating children. New and aspiring parents enter our communities for top-notch schools. This public education system offers a necessary springboard for prosperous lives.

Getting our youth to stay put and prosper on this Island is a puzzle. The cost of living is higher than in many other places around the U.S. Long Islanders have some of the country’s highest taxes, rents and utility costs. For too many young people, the costs outweigh the benefits, and they flee.

Consequently, we are losing generations of educated, homegrown Long Islanders. The investments we make into public schools are going unrewarded.

Without a new generation of workers powering our local economy, municipalities will miss out on a sizable tax base. With fewer customers patronizing local businesses, our downtowns will suffer. With fewer new families, our first-rate school districts will shutter. And the loss of youth will deprive our communities of continual cultural enrichment.

For all these reasons, our leaders must take a close look at why young people are leaving, then do something about it. Given the multitude of factors and variables, a multiyear study on the conditions of youth flight may be in order.

Some measures can be taken now. Investments in new, affordable housing options are beneficial, creating competition in our often-inflated rental market that squeezes those just entering the workforce. Offering below-market rents can encourage young people to stay and live here.

We also ask our public officials to respect their taxpayers, taking a close forensic accounting of their budgets. Amid this inflationary period and uncertain economic times, they should practice greater fiscal responsibility, exploring ways to limit needless spending.

While acknowledging this need, we do not endorse excessive cuts to school, library and fire district budgets. These vital public institutions remain major draws to our Island. With common-sense reforms and proper budgetary management, Long Island can retain and build upon our current population of young people. Through our efforts today, generations of Long Islanders could soon spring forth.

WRITE TO US … AND KEEP IT LOCAL

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A challenging race

When I ran for trustee for the Village of Port Jefferson last year, I had the full faith and support of Port Jefferson’s mayor, deputy mayor and the clerk’s office. I was guided through the petition submission process and the mayor even numbered my petition sheets.

In the eight months following the 2022 elections, I went from being an establishment candidate to the opposition. I asked questions and challenged decisions that I found questionable and at times, autocratic. That is why I decided to run for mayor.

Now, my opponent’s campaign and its lawyers challenged my petitions and due to an issue with the cover sheet, the Suffolk County Board of Elections on May 30 determined that my name cannot be placed on the ballot.

I am committed to continuing my campaign for mayor even if it means I’ll be a “write-in” candidate. It may be an uphill battle, but I will not quit the people of Port Jefferson.

If you believe that we need a fresh start in Port Jeff, and that you should have a choice for mayor, then write in “Lauren Sheprow” under the column for mayor on June 20. This is your village and your vote should count.

Lauren Sheprow Mayoral candidate and trustee Village of Port Jefferson

Juliano, the integrity candidate

Just wanted to take the opportunity to tell you a little about my husband, Bob Juliano, who is running for trustee in the Village of Port Jefferson.

Bob has spent 30 years in public service. The first eight years were spent as treasurer in the Village of Lindenhurst, then 18 years as administrator/clerk for the Village of Port Jefferson, followed by the Village of Westbury as clerk/treasurer until his retirement last year.

For those who know Bob, you know that this man is hardworking, he is smart, honest and reliable. Although this sounds like a Labrador Retriever, it is the man I have been married to for almost 38 years and I believe it is what we need in the Village of Port Jefferson.

He worked tirelessly in his time with the village. I was with him when he would receive calls on the weekends and respond by doing a well visit, or checking someone’s property for them. During Hurricane Sandy, he was at the “bunker” taking care of the village, not home with his family. He was doing his job.

I feel it is time we give Bob a chance to have a voice in the village where he had his hands in everything that went on. Talk about experience, no one can top his. He knows

Next week will be the last issue we run letters of endorsement for village candidates. Deadline for submission: Tuesday, June 6, at noon.

this village, how it runs and how it should run. I hope you will vote for Bob on June 20 at the Village Center. Integrity matters.

Kelly Juliano Port Jefferson

Snaden would have no learning curve

With the mayoral election less than 30 days away, we need to give careful thought as to who is best qualified and capable of leading the village for the next two years. The dangers of an inexperienced mayor cannot be overstated.

Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden has many years of experience and would have no learning curve when she assumes office.

Institutional knowledge saves the taxpayers money, and Kathianne has amassed a tremendous amount of knowledge and hands-on understanding of what is necessary to move the village forward in the coming years.

Her resume is extensive: She is the Village of Port Jefferson commissioner of Public Safety, also Planning and Building; she is trustee liaison to code, courts, parking and mobility, Business Improvement District, Zoning Board of Appeals, Architectural Review Committee and the employees union. Most importantly, if Kathianne loses, we not only lose a committed public servant but a strong liaison to our schools.

Losing Kathianne would be a significant blow to our community. If she is not elected, a trustee would be elected without any input from voters, adding yet another inexperienced member to the board.

We cannot afford to take risks with our village’s future. We must elect an experienced, seasoned leader who can hit the ground running. That leader is Kathianne Snaden. Please vote for her on June 20 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Village Center.

Jennifer Testa Port Jefferson

Review candidates’ history

In reference to our up-and-coming Port Jefferson mayoral election on June 20, I would recommend the village residents to google our candidates’ past employment and endeavors, as you would do if you were hiring a new employee for any political or nonpolitical position. By googling one’s past employment and endeavors, it will give you the insight to see how they will acclimate to their new positions.

This being said, I would recommend that you google candidates Kathianne Snaden and Lauren Sheprow, who was the previous head of media relations at Stony Brook University.

I believe the best choice for the future of Port Jefferson village is to elect Kathianne

Snaden for mayor. I base this opinion on her experience, integrity, character, honesty and transparency.

Joey Zangrillo Port Jefferson

LaLota’s disturbing immigration posture

I found your story of Suffolk County Republicans including my Congressman Nick LaLota’s [R-NY1] attempt to keep immigrants seeking asylum from coming to Suffolk County very disturbing. [“Republican lawmakers, immigration advocates clash over asylum seekers,” TBR News Media, May 25.]

We are better than that. Seeking asylum is both legal and an important principle. Jews, Irish, Italians, Chinese and others came here effectively seeking asylum because of the many dangers in their home countries. Those groups and others were vilified at first but have made important contributions to our country.

We, as a nation, depend on immigrants for our enormous innovation, progress and energy. All American communities must do our part to welcome these people and help them get a good start here. This is not only the right thing to do, it is very much in our country’s interest.

The problem at the southern border was not caused by President Joe Biden [D] but by a Congress that has failed to pass a safe and humane immigration policy. Pandering to our worst instincts, rather than leading and making good proposals to solve the problem, do more harm than good.

Adam D. Fisher Port Jefferson Station

An open letter on striped bass fishing

To DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos:

Our offices have been contacted by concerned fishermen and boat captains regarding the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s emergency measures to further reduce the size of striped bass for the East Coast Fishery.

It is our understanding that these emergency measures, changing the limit on keeper fish from one fish a day from 28 inches to 35 inches to one fish a day from 28 inches to 31 inches, are currently being reviewed by the Department of Environmental Conservation with the federal requirement to implement them by July 2.

Opinion

The reviving benefit of reverential or spiritual silences

Shhh. Listen. If what you hear is nothing, then maybe you’re onto something.

Noise envelops us. Some of it, like the sound of a Broadway musical, the waterfall laughter of a giggling child, or the deep resonant breath of a humpback whale surfacing amid floating cubes of ice in Alaska can give us peace, pleasure and joy.

going to make it.”

We step outside of the airport, where whistles from people directing traffic echo in our ears and where officials in orange vests bark orders at drivers to “vacate this spot immediately!”

newspaper, chew their gum, or shake their leg up and down so rapidly that the material from their pants makes a repetitive rubbing sound.

But then, we can go to a meditation or yoga class or a religious or memorial service and reflect with others who sit still like a slope of shaded stones in an Ansel Adams photo.

have a pleasing symmetry, with windows, flying buttresses and A-frame houses looking remarkably similar on the left and right. Almost every field or arena for a sporting event has some symmetry, except for those with irregular outfield fences.

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

Many noises, however, are irritants or worse. We step out of a loud airplane onto a jetway, where loudspeakers announce the boarding in group four of a flight awaiting takeoff. We walk through a crowded airport, as fathers shout to their children, a woman calls to ask Breanne if she “wants fries with her burger,” and a man informs his wife that he “has to pee so badly that he’s not sure he’s

We try to ignore many of the harsher and more abrasive sounds, even though our nervous system tracks noises as a way to protect us in case someone yells something we need to hear.

And then there are those wonderful moments when we hear nothing, not even the buzzing of a lightbulb, a dog drinking in the next room, or a cat cleaning himself on a nearby chair.

Silence.

If it lasts long enough, it’s the pause that refreshes, giving our ears a rest and our brains a chance to hear an inner voice that might otherwise get lost.

We can find those moments when we’re on our own. When we’re surrounded by others, the silence is harder to discover, as we either speak or hear the noises they make as they unwrap a

During those moments, we can slow our breathing, think beyond the constant fast twitch need to act and react to our phones, and can allow our minds to make unexpected connections.

During one of those recent times, I pondered symmetry in nature, where you can draw a line down the middle of something like our faces, and see that the image on one side, excluding freckles, beauty marks, and that scar from the time we tripped and got stitches, is incredibly similar to the one on the other.

With so much chaos in nature, I wouldn’t expect such symmetry. At a distance, most leaves have remarkable symmetry, as do the shape of most animals. Human designs often

During a recent service, I enjoyed time when I couldn’t look at my phone and when I could read religious text. I haven’t considered these texts in a while and was drawn in by their drama and story value, as opposed to the spiritual and life guidance I often imagine. Basic struggles for power, sibling rivalries, and the search for food and stability dominate these narratives, which makes it clear why religion (and mythology) continue to offer connections for people whose lives, at least on the surface, are considerably different from the ones people lived lo those many years ago.

Ultimately, silence can be refreshing, giving us auditory time and space to reflect and to clean a cognitive filter cluttered with chaos and cacophony.

Suddenly it’s June. Didn’t we recently put our holiday decorations away? Wasn’t it mid-winter break just a couple of weeks ago? Time warps, especially if we have busy lives. We look up and five months of the year have already passed.

But of course, June is most welcome. It is the month of high school graduations, of weddings, of the official turning to summer with the summertime solstice and the most daylight hours of the year. For those readers interested in random data, June is the second of four months to have a length of 30 days and the third of five months to have fewer than 31 days. Take that to “Jeopardy!”

June is also the month when all the trees are dressed in their finest, lushest leaves, when the weather beckons us outdoors because it is neither too cold or too hot quite yet. June is when the swimming pools in the neighborhood shed their covers and offer to the eye patches of refreshing blue as we drive along the local roads. June is when allergy season begins to recede with the gradual lessening of tree and grass pollens.

African American Music Appreciation Month

ALS Awareness Month in Canada

Caribbean American Heritage Month

LGBTQ+ Awareness and Pride Month

National Oceans Month

PTSD Awareness Month

Great Outdoors Month

And my personal favorite, National Smile Month, which is celebrated in the United Kingdom and should migrate across the globe.

There is also:

International Children’s Day on the first Tuesday

World Bicycle Day on the first Wednesday

National Donut Day on the first Friday

Father’s Day on the third Sunday

BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF

Early June is when I like to travel because each day is longer, and I feel I am really getting my money’s worth on a tour. That’s also when most families are still home, their young ones not yet finished with school, and therefore all services, from palaces to restaurants are less crowded. Unless I am in the southern hemisphere, where it is technically the start of winter, the weather in June tends to be perfect, not much rain, the temperature ideal.

June was probably named after the Roman goddess Juno, the goddess of marriage and the wife of the supreme deity, Jupiter, There are also other suggestions for how the month got its name, but we really don’t have to list them all because no one I know is actually preparing to appear on “Jeopardy!”

That said, you still might like to know a few of the month-long observances for June. There is:

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Here is one to ponder: Seersucker Day on the second Thursday

And on the third Friday, National Flip Flop Day.

Hmmm. Maybe with all that said, we should give a second thought to “Jeopardy!”

When our children were in elementary school, I always welcomed June with enthusiasm. It meant that July and the end of the academic year were not far away, which in turn meant sleeping in and not having to prepare for the early bus to school, long, lazy days at the beach, family baseball games on the empty school fields on weekends and frequent outdoor barbecues. This year, June means, among more hedonistic pursuits, a month with five Thursdays, and therefore five issues of the papers and website to fill with local news that we will report to you.

Happy reading!

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D. None of the above

‘June is bustin’ out all over,’ according to Rodgers and Hammerstein