The Port Times Record - December 15, 2022

Photo courtesy Steve Englebright’s

Port Jeff village board reports on East Beach, branch and leaf pickup, and communications

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The Village of Port Jefferson Village Board of Trustees met on Monday, Dec. 12, to review several important matters.

community, locally and also regionally, and the stewardship he has taken in terms of environmental preservation and saving a lot of our history.”

VILLAGE NEWS

Mayor Margot Garant provided some key updates on the status of the stabilization projects at the East Beach bluff. At the toe of the bluff, the lower sea wall has already been installed along with its concrete cap. Construction will continue for several more months.

“That work will continue through the spring,” Garant said. “At some point, they will stop working during the severe winter, and in the springtime they will start to stabilize the bluff and plant and revegetate everything.”

At the upland, the village-owned Port Jefferson Country Club’s clubhouse facility hangs dangerously close to the bluff’s edge. In an exchange during the public comments, Garant stated the board is still exploring its upland options.

“We still don’t have enough information to decide to build [an upper wall], to put it out to the public [for referendum] or to decide to abandon [the clubhouse] and retreat,” she said. “We have decided to wait and let the phase I project be completed. … Right now, we are at a standstill with any major expenditures or advancements on phase II.”

Garant also gave an update on the status of the Port Jefferson Village Clean Solid Waste Landfill, a small kettle hole the village uses for branch and leaf pickup services. Though the village’s permit with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation was set to expire on Dec. 11, the mayor said the agency would temporarily allow the village to continue its current use of the site.

“It looks like our paperwork was submitted in a timely manner to allow us to continue operations until we either have a renewed permit or we are redefined as a transfer station and not a landfill,” she said. For more on this intergovernmental permit dispute, see story, “Garbage grief: PJ Village and DEC clash over landfill permit,” The Port Times Record, Dec. 1, also TBR News Media website.

Garant thanked New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) for his decades of representing the Port Jefferson community. Englebright will leave office at the end of the month after narrowly losing last month to Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson) during the midterm election.

The mayor recognized Englebright’s lasting impact, noting “the many, many things that he’s accomplished for this

Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden reported on some of the ongoing work within the Port Jefferson Planning Board regarding a proposed development by Conifer Realty located at the intersection of Main and Perry streets. This project, colloquially known as “Conifer II,” comes as Conifer’s Port Jefferson Crossing Apartments nears its grand opening.

Conifer II “is going to take the rest of the blighted block up there and turn it into a beautiful new building,” Snaden said. “We’ve been working very, very hard to make sure that the aesthetic of that building is in compliance with the whole plan, the master plan up there, with the current building that’s there, and everything works together and looks nice.”

The deputy mayor also announced an innovation concerning parking enforcement. An automatic license plate reader, or ALPR, attached to a code enforcement vehicle will soon replace parking enforcement operations. Snaden said the ALPR would assist the code department in generating overtime parking tickets on Main, with plans to move this technology into the metered parking lots.

“How that will affect you guys, the residents, is that there will be no parking stickers next year,” Snaden said. “You will go online and register the exact same way that you do. The only difference is that you will not be mailed an actual sticker. You will just be registered in the system by your license plate.”

Trustee Stan Loucks began his report by thanking the parks department staff, attributing much of the success of the village’s 26th annual Charles Dickens Festival to their efforts.

“The Dickens Festival turned out to be super successful, and I think a lot of it is due to the parks department and the hard work that they put in,” he said.

Trustee Lauren Sheprow, the village’s communications commissioner, reported on the recent formation of a communications team following an internal communications audit she conducted earlier this year. Kevin Wood heads the team, along with his duties as the village’s director of economic development and parking administrator.

Sheprow referred to this as “a historic occasion” for the village government. “There are some hurdles and challenges there, no doubt, but I think that this group is up to the task to come together as a team,” she said.

The village board will reconvene Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 5 p.m.

PJSD facilities proposal defeated narrowly, turf field plan firmly rejected

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

In a public referendum held Monday, Dec. 12, Port Jefferson School District residents voted down two ballot measures totaling $25 million in school infrastructure improvements.

With nearly 1,000 district residents turning out in wintry weather, just 24 votes would separate the yeas and nays on Proposition 1, a $23.1 million infrastructure package that targeted various facilities throughout the school district. The measure failed by a narrow margin of 498-474. Proposition 2, a $1.9 million proposed artificial turf field at the high school, was defeated 734-239, a roughly 3-1 ratio against the measure.

In an email statement, district superintendent of schools, Jessica Schmettan, offered her commentary on the outcome.

“While the district is disappointed in the results of the Dec. 12 bond vote, we thank all who participated,” she said. “The small margin of defeat of Proposition 1 was particularly upsetting, as the challenges that exist with our aging building infrastructure remain a top concern for the district and, as such, will require further discussion for how best to proceed.”

Mayor Margot Garant, a PJSD alum, publicly supported both measures leading up to the referendum. In an interview, she also expressed disappointment at Monday’s results.

“I don’t think that’s the Port Jeff way to let things get so deteriorated,” she said. “I think [the Board of Education] came up with a doable plan, and it was the time to do it because the community is still being subsidized by the LIPA power plant.”

The mayor added, “The schools are so important to this community. It’s what people look for when they come to live in Port Jeff. It’s one of the pillars that makes this place so special. … Just because you don’t have a child in the district doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be investing in this community.”

Leading up to the election, New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), whose district encompasses Port Jefferson, supported the infrastructure upgrades within Proposition 1. In a phone interview, he referred to Monday’s school election outcome as part of a regional electoral trend and a “reflection of the post-pandemic moment.”

“The escalating cost of food and fuel have put a lot of people on edge,” he said. “I would guess that what we’re seeing is a reflection of the general anxieties about inflation.”

Though Englebright was sorry to learn that the voters defeated the facilities improvements, he was less amenable to the artificial turf proposal. He regarded the potential risks associated with synthetic turf as an unsettled science, with crumb rubber possibly having “some contamination issues,” along with added costs for maintenance and replacement. “It’s a very expensive

proposition for those reasons,” he said.

Englebright was not alone in his reservations about the turf proposal. Paul Ryan, a former BOE candidate, was a vocal opponent of Proposition 2 in the months leading up to the vote. In an email statement, Ryan said Proposition 2 likely impacted the outcome of Proposition 1.

“I was disappointed but not surprised to learn that Prop 1 failed to garner enough community support,” he said. “I believe it failed because of the inclusion of Prop 2,” adding, “I suspected that enough of the residents would be upset by the turf that they [would] vote down the whole bond.”

Monday’s negative vote has prompted questions about the longterm prospects of the school district. For Garant, residents have an active stake in maintaining school facilities, which she said closely correspond to property values.

“Your home values are in direct correlation and are so connected to the value of the schools,” she said, adding, “I think it’s very shortsighted by this community. I’m disappointed, and I want to encourage the school board to continue their efforts, go back to the grind and maybe come back again.”

Some have advocated for PJSD to merge with a neighboring district due to its declining student enrollment in recent years. Garant

Gifts Have Arrived For

regarded this idea as misguided, maintaining that support for the school district is in the village’s long-term interest.

“The miscommunication that’s going out there is that we can just merge with another district,” she said. “If we did that, our taxes would double immediately. I think that’s what people don’t really understand.”

Englebright noted the important place public schools occupy within the greater community. However, he suggested residents may need to take time for the broader economic trends to settle before taking on additional expenses.

“That school district has a long and distinguished history of service,” the assemblyman said. “People in Port Jefferson are rightly proud of their schools,” but adding, “I think that we have to give it a little time.”

Ryan again took on a different tone, insisting that future referenda within the district will require closer coordination with those supporting these projects financially.

“The administration and BOE need to demonstrate that they are able to hear the residents’ concerns, prioritize only essential infrastructure and take a fiscally responsible approach to spending,” he said. “If they do not, they may find annual budget votes contentious.”

‘I think it’s very shortsighted by this community.’

— MARGOT GARANT

PJV dedicates lantern to Aida Ramonez during Dickens Festival

Friends, family, and community members gathered on Friday, Dec. 2, to dedicate a lantern to the late Aida Ramonez, a beautiful young girl very dear to the Port Jefferson community.

The community continues to come together for the Ramonez family, this being the latest example. Mayor Margot Garant shared her sentiments during the ceremony.

“I see there are many of her classmates out here tonight and know when one family hurts, we all hurt,” Garant said. “We can’t think of a more beautiful thing than celebrating life. Look around you, look at all the people in your life and in this community and be so very grateful for what we have here together.”

The inscription on Aida’s lantern reads, “In loving memory of Aida Esperanza Ramonez — Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Aida’s grandfather Ramon expressed his gratitude to those who coordinated the service.

“I want to thank the community of Port Jefferson,” he said. “The love and kindness that we have felt from you. Losing someone so young and so precious has been difficult. But the support of a community like this makes it a lot easier.”

The Port Jefferson School District and community raised the money for the lantern

Letters to the Editor

Continued from A22

Biden doesn’t know how to play chess

President Joe Biden [D] announcing the agreement to exchange former Soviet military translator turned “merchant of death” arms dealer Viktor Bout for WNBA star Brittney Griner reminded me of a chess game. Bout has served over 12 of 25 years in prison for crimes, including the targeting of American citizens.

Bout was the second most-wanted man in the world after Osama bin Laden. Russian President Vladimir Putin exchanged a pawn (Griner) and got a king (Bout). If Biden knew how to play chess, he would have exchanged a king for a king and made it a higher priority to obtain the release of former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan instead.

Whelan was arrested in Moscow in 2018 on espionage charges. He was subsequently found guilty in a closed trial and has served more than two years of a 16-year prison sentence. Contrast that with women’s basketball star Griner, who has been detained for almost 10 months and just began serving her nine-year prison sentence.

In 2020, she was quoted by the Arizona Republic as saying, “I honestly feel we should not play the national anthem during our [WNBA] season.”

Michael Braun, then retired chief of operations for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, told “60 Minutes” (CBS) in

dedication. Funds raised beyond those necessary for the dedication ceremony will support a scholarship in Aida’s name.

It’s tradition each year during the lantern dedications that students participate by reading a poem as a part of their curriculum. Students Luca Caltagirone and Blake Weaver eloquently shared the poem “Family is like a Circle” by Nicole M. O’Neil.

“This community is strong, and we’re here to support the Ramonez family still,” Garant said. “Every time we see this beautifully lit lantern, you’ll have a very special place to sit by the harbor and honor her spirit.”

2010, “Viktor Bout, in my eyes, is one of the most dangerous men on the face of the Earth.” The exchange of Bout for Whelan would have been better.

Once again, Putin has played Biden for a fool.

Larry Penner Great Neck

Rebutting ‘falsehoods’

Regarding David Friedman’s letter [“Falsehoods that need to be corrected,” TBR News Media, Dec. 1] claiming that everything I said in my letter was false, actually my statements were very true.

Maybe if he isn’t annoyed with what I said about Gov. Kathy Hochul’s [D] “achievements,” he would have understood my statements about crime, no bail and the highest cost of living and gas prices. I take back the word “highest,” but New York is right up there with the rest of the states he listed.

As far as no bail, criminals who commit serious crimes should not be released without bail, thus enabling them to go back on the streets to commit more crimes. Also, my statement about Hochul’s gun restrictions and criminals not going to obey her rules, most people would understand anyone can commit a crime without a gun, but law abiding citizens have the right to own a gun for their own protection.

I was a police officer for 31 years. I believe I know enough about crime, criminals and the law. My statements are in fact not false, as he stated.

Richard Esopa Miller Place

Attendees of the latern dedication. Photo courtesy Kevin Wood

PJS/T civic covers scam calls, planned retirement community and possible Terryville Road repaving

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association met Tuesday, Dec. 13, at Comsewogue Public Library for its monthly meeting.

PJSTCA vice president Sal Pitti delivered the report on public safety. Given a noticeable uptick in phone scams and malicious email attachments, Pitti stressed the importance of staying on high alert for these threats.

“The bottom line is that if you don’t know the other person on the other end of the phone, don’t send them money,” he said. “If you get an email from somebody you don’t know — and I don’t care how official the email looks — don’t click the link. That’s their way into your computer system.”

Noting the ongoing fallout of the September ransomware attack against the Suffolk County government, he added, “It can happen to anybody.”

The civic’s corresponding secretary Charlie McAteer announced the renaming of the SetauketPort Jefferson Station Greenway trail in honor of outgoing New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket).

“Steve Englebright was the person who initially, in 2001, got the $2 million-plus for the initial project, which opened in 2009,” he said. “I think that given all of the things he has done in the community, that is a nice plus.”

Student representative Max of Comsewogue School District reported that the high school would host its Holiday Spirit Week with various themes

next week.

CPL assistant library director Andrea Malchiodi reminded the members that donations are being accepted for Toys for Tots. “December 17 is the last day for that,” she said. “Food is always welcome for our food pantry. The Tree of Warmth will be collecting hats, gloves, mittens and scarves until January 31.”

During last month’s meeting, members vigorously discussed the planned retirement community to be developed at the intersection of Terryville and Old Town roads. [See story, “PJS/Terryville civic hosts November meeting,” The Port Times Record, Nov. 17, also TBR News Media website.]

McAteer reported on a recent meeting between civic leaders, members of the Port Jefferson Station/ Terryville Chamber of Commerce, representatives from Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich’s (D-Stony Brook) office and the developer of the site.

The developer is “talking about putting in a very small, just over 2,100-square-foot clubhouse, an outdoor swimming pool, a pickleball court and two bocce ball courts,” McAteer said. “The [residential units] will all be two stories high.”

Summarizing his thoughts on the exchanges, he added that the developer’s team “seemed to be amenable to our small, minor suggestions. I thought it went well.”

Multiple civic members expressed their interest in contributing to the proposed community garden

Comsewogue School District

on the John F. Kennedy middle school property. Pitti said he hopes to begin planning for the garden in March after fleshing out some details of insuring the facility.

Near the end of the meeting, member Paul Sagliocca inquired whether the civic association could collectively apply greater pressure on the Town of Brookhaven Highway Department to repave Terryville Road.

“I want to see if we come up with a subset of this meeting and prioritize the road because we’re

missing out,” he said.

Responding to Sagliocca’s request, Pitti suggested the highway prioritization process within the town is steeped in politics and bureaucracy. While Terryville Road has been on the department’s list for roughly a half-decade, Pitti added that it will be up to the department when the roadway gets repaved.

The town’s Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro (R) could not be reached for comment by press time.

Port Jefferson School District

Comsewogue Marine comes home

Comsewogue High School alum Jair Lopez, Class of 2022, became a United States Marine on Dec. 2, and returned to Comsewogue High School on Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Lopez was welcomed by a crowd of students, teachers and staff. “There was so

much love and respect displayed by all of our Comsewogue Warriors for him,” said Jennifer Quinn, superintendent of schools.

Lopez recently graduated in June. When he spoke, he thanked his teachers for not giving up on him and keeping him pointed in the right direction.

Port Jefferson students share joy and music at Dickens Festival

Members of the Port Jefferson School District music and fine arts department joined in the festivities of the annual Charles Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson Village Dec. 2-4.

Music students and teachers entertained the spectators with seasonal songs during various performances throughout the village. Students in the district’s Drama Club assisted Santa at the Village Center in the elf workshop and served as background actors in

the Stony Brook University film crew taping of the event.

“They did a fantastic job of interacting with the villagers and students and children just waiting to see Santa,” drama club adviser Tony Butera said.

The unique event was another opportunity for teachers and students to share their Port Jefferson School District award-winning talents in a public setting.

PHOTO COURTESY ANDREW HARRIS

Port Jefferson School District students with music teacher Edward Pisano (right). Photo courtesy PJSD

The PJSTCA executive board during its December monthly meeting. Photo by Raymond Janis

The following incidents have been

Man seriously injured in Stony Brook motor vehicle crash

Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that seriously injured a man in Stony Brook on Dec. 10. Marquice Campbell was driving a 2009 Mercedes Benz in the left lane of northbound Nicolls Road, between Nesconset Highway and Oxhead Road, when he attempted to cross into the right lane and struck a 2022 Honda CRV. He then lost control of the Mercedes, which traveled onto the right shoulder and continuing off the roadway, crashing into construction equipment, at approximately 4 p.m. Campbell, 27, of Middle Island, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The driver of the Honda, Karrer Alghazali, 38, of Little Rock, Arkansas, was not injured. Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks. Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact the Sixth Squad at 631-854-8652.

Wrong-way driver arrested for DWI on Nesconset Highway in Hauppauge

Suffolk County Police arrested a woman on Dec. 10 for driving while intoxicated after she allegedly drove the wrong way on Nesconset Highway in Hauppauge. A 911 caller reported a sedan was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Nesconset Highway at 3:10 a.m. A Fourth Precinct Patrol officer responded and pulled over the driver of the sedan, a 2020 Honda Civic, just west of Browns Road at approximately 3:15 a.m. The officers determined the driver, Karen Morales-Moreno, was allegedly intoxicated and placed her under arrest. Morales-Moreno, 21, of Port Jefferson, was charged with Driving While Intoxicated.

A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Man injured in road rage incident

Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are investigating a road rage incident that injured a man in Farmingville on Dec. 7. A woman was driving a 2007 BMW westbound on the LIE between Exits 64 and 63 with a male and female passenger in the vehicle, when she allegedly became involved in a road rage incident with a male driver in another vehicle traveling in the same direction, at approximately 10:15 p.m.

Both vehicles exited the LIE at Exit 63 and stopped for a traffic light at Express Drive North at North Ocean Avenue. The suspect left his vehicle, approached the BMW, and allegedly attempted to open the driver’s door, which was locked. He

Wanted for Lake Grove Petit Larceny

Just released! Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the woman who allegedly stole clothing from Old Navy, located at 2089 Smith Haven Plaza in Lake Grove, at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 4. The merchandise was valued at approximately $380.

then reached into the open rear window to grab the driver, but a male passenger in the rear seat grabbed the suspect’s arm. A struggle ensued, and the suspect allegedly cut the passenger’s throat, causing a 4-inch laceration. The driver, hearing the commotion in the rear seat, drove through the red light to escape the assault and continued to the City MD Office, located at 2280A North Ocean Ave., for help. The suspect got back into his vehicle and fled northbound on North Ocean Avenue. The victim was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect was described as Hispanic, with dark skin, a medium build, brown eyes, and brown curly hair, and appeared to be in his mid-30s to 40s. He was wearing a winter hat and light blue tee-shirt. The vehicle he was driving was described as a royal blue 4-door sedan, possibly a Mazda 3 or 6, with yellow NY plates. There was possibly a female passenger in the suspect’s vehicle.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on this incident to call the Sixth Squad at 631-854-8652.

SUTTON

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

reported by Suffolk County Police:

— COMPILED BY HEIDI

Do you recognize this woman? Photo from SCPD

LEGALS

Noticeofformationof

ofStateofNewYork(SSNY) ofOrg.filedwithSecretary StonehengeEquityLLC.Arts

on08/26/2022.Officelocation:SuffolkCounty.SSNY

lawfulpurpose. NY11228.Purpose:Any AvenueSuite202Brooklyn, LLC:USCAInc.701413th copyoftheprocesstothe served.SSNYshallmaila processagainstitmaybe agentoftheLLCuponwhom hasbeendesignatedas

11636011/176xptr

NOTICEOFSALESUPREME

COURTCOUNTYOFSUFFOLKNationstarMortgage

LLC,PlaintiffAGAINSTMichelleNagel;SeanNagel;et

al.,Defendant(s)Pursuant

toaJudgmentofForeclosureandSaledulyentered

BrookhavenTownHall,1 atpublicauctionatthe undersignedRefereewillsell September21,2018I,the

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onJanuary

4,2023at9:30AM,premisesknownas20Garland

pieceorparcelofland,with 11778.Allthatcertainplot Road,RockyPoint,NY

thebuildingsandimprovementserected,situate,

Point,intheTownof lyingandbeingatRocky

Brookhaven,CountyofSuffolk,StateofNewYork,

GroupLLPf/k/aShapiro, Esq.,RefereeLOGSLegal JudicialDistrict.PaulFeuer, establishedbytheTenth ofForeclosedProperty ConcerningPublicAuctions totheCOVID-19Policies willbeconductedpursuant 066059/2014.Theauction filedJudgmentIndex# soldsubjecttoprovisionsof andcosts.Premiseswillbe $458,024.20plusinterest amountofjudgment 040.003.Approximate 055.00Block10.00Lot District0200Section

DiCaro&Barak,LLCAttorney(s)forthePlaintiff175

MileCrossingBoulevard

October5,202273778 (877)430-4792Dated: Rochester,NewYork14624

11719012/14xptr

SUPREMECOURT-COUNTY

FederalSavingsandLoan AstoriaBankf/k/aAstoria successorbymergerto STERLINGNATIONALBANK, OFSUFFOLK-BROOKHAVEN

To Place A Legal Notice

Email: legals@tbrnewsmedia.com

etalDefendant(s).Pursuant

toaJudgmentofForeclosureandSaleentered

andbeingintheTownof p.m.premisessituate,lying January6,2023at3:00 Hill,Farmingville,NYon TownHall,1Independence auctionattheBrookhaven Refereewillsellatpublic 2019,I,theundersigned hereinanddatedMarch19,

Brookhaven,CountyofSuffolkandStateofNewYork,

costs. $258,076.11plusinterest& Approximateamountoflien NY EDINBURGHDRIVE,RIDGE, Saidpremisesknownas191 removedfromtheauction. distancingmandatewillbe maskand/orthesocial notcomplywiththeface alltimes.Bidderswhodo observedbyallbiddersat socialdistancingmustbe mask/shieldatalltimesand Allbiddersmustwearaface 019.000 241.20Block:01.00Lot: District:0200Section: 44.00feet. 44.00feetby68.00feetby beingaplot68.00feetby pointorplaceofbeginning; East17.00feettothetrue West18.35feet;2.South ofEdinburghDrive;1.South Driveandthesoutherlyside westerlysideofBerkshire acurveconnectingthe theextremewesterlyendof coursesanddistancesfrom pointthefollowingtwo follows:BEGINNINGata beingfurtherdescribedas

Premiseswillbesoldsubjecttoprovisionsoffiled

depositpaid.ThePurchaser onlytoareturnofthe atthesaleshallbeentitled anyreason,thePurchaser Ifthesaleissetasidefor Sale. JudgmentandTermsof

shallhavenofurtherrecourseagainsttheMortgagor,theMortgageeorthe

File#8888.040 11030 2ndFloor,Manhasset,NY 47HillsideAvenue, Attorney(s)forPlaintiff LLP DavidA.Gallo&Associates Referee STEVENSILIATO,ESQ., 616659/2017. IndexNumber Mortgagee’sattorney.

11811012/84xptr

NOTICEOFSALESUPREME

CERTIFICATES,SERIES PASS-THROUGH MORTGAGEASSET-BACKED ACCREDITLOANS,INC., FORRESIDENTIAL AMERICAS,ASTRUSTEE TRUSTCOMPANY

2007-QS2,Plaintiff

AGAINSTWALTERSHANNONINDIVIDUALLYANDAS

1,2007,JACQUELINE LIVINGTRUSTDATEDJUNE TRUSTEEOFTHESHANNON

BURNS-SHANNONINDIVIDUALLYANDASTRUSTEEOF

BrookhavenTownHall,1 sellatpublicauctionatthe theundersignedRefereewill enteredJanuary2,2019,I, ForeclosureandSaleduly PursuanttoaJudgmentof 2007,ETAL.,Defendant(s) TRUSTDATEDJUNE1, THESHANNONLIVING

IndependenceHill,Farmingville,NY11738onJanuary

9,2023at12:00PM,premisesknownas22COMMUNITYDRIVE,CORAM,NY

pieceorparcelofland,with 11727.Allthatcertainplot

thebuildingsandimprovementserected,situate,

withtheSUFFOLKCounty beconductedinaccordance aforementionedauctionwill #609798/2016.The filedJudgmentIndex soldsubjecttoprovisionsof andcosts.Premiseswillbe $827,319.85plusinterest amountofjudgment 006.002.Approximate 317.00,Block02.00,Lot York,District0200,Section SuffolkandStateofNew ofBrookhaven,Countyof lyingandbeingintheTown

COVID-19mitigationprotocolsandassuchall

socialdistancing,wearing personsmustcomplywith

masksandscreeningpracticesineffectatthetimeof

74170 NY1422116-000656 WehrleDriveWilliamsville, GrossPolowy,LLC1775 FarrellLowe,Esq.,Referee thisforeclosuresale.Rose

11825012/84xptr

LEGALNOTICE

PUBLICHEARING NOTICEOF

2023at6:00p.m.at121 heldonTuesday,January3, thataPublicHearingwillbe NOTICEISHEREBYGIVEN

Association,Plaintiffagainst-WILLIAMM.BOYLE, VillageBoardoftheIncorporatedVillageofPort

WestBroadway,PortJefferson,NewYork,bythe

STATIONSTREETANDTHE RAILROADEGRESSONTO THELONGISLAND AVENUE,TODESIGNATE STREETFROMOAKLAND TURNSONTOSTATION ANDLEFTORRIGHT ISLANDRAILROADLOT STREETFROMTHELONG TURNSONTOSTATION STREET,TOPREVENTLEFT STREETASAONE-WAY ESTABLISHSTATION THEVILLAGECODETO 245-62AND245-71OF 245-11,245-60,245-61,

INTERSECTIONOFSTATIONSTREETWITHOAKLANDAVENUEASSTOP

STANDING,ANDSTOPPING TOPREVENTPARKING, ASRIGHT-TURNONLY,AND RAILROADPARKINGLOT THELONGISLAND STATIONSTREETFROM ESTABLISHEGRESSONTO INTERSECTIONS,TO

ONSTATIONSTREET.

OfficeoftheVillageClerk. locallawisonfileatthe Acopyofthisproposed

heard. giventheopportunitytobe personinterestedwillbe AtsaidPublicHearingany

VillageClerk BarbaraSakovich

December15,2022

11994012/151xptr

NoticeofFormationof

VeteranConstructionand

York(SSNY)on SecretaryofStateofNew ArtsofOrg.filedwiththe HomeRepairServicesLLC.

05/19/2022.OfficeLocation:SuffolkCountySSNY

purpose. 11777.Purpose:Anylawful AptC#2,PortJeffersonNY, LLC:84NCountryRoad, copyoftheprocesstothe served.SSNYshallmaila processagainstitmaybe agentoftheLLCuponwhom hasbeendesignatedas

COURTCOUNTYOFSUFFOLKDEUTSCHEBANK commentsrelativetothe toobtaincitizens’viewsand Jefferson,NewYork11777 121WestBroadway,Port at6:00PMatVillageHall, hearingonJanuary3,2023 Jeffersonwillholdapublic IncorporatedVillageofPort TheBoardofTrusteesofthe

submissionofanapplicationtoEmpireStateDevelopmentforfinancialassistanceundertheRestoreNY

blightedparcelsintheC2 andredevelopmentof projectincludesdemolition CommunitiesInitiative.This

ZoningDistrictinthe“UpperPort”areaoftheVillage.

Thefollowingpropertieswill

besubmittedforconsideration:

Jefferson,NewYork11777, - 1601MainStreet,Port

SCTM#206-21-6-1,describedasa0.11acrelot

containingvacantcommercialproperty,proposedfor

demolitionandredevelopment;

Jefferson,NewYork11777, - 1605MainStreet,Port

SCTM#206-21-6-2,describedasa0.12acrelot

containingvacantcommercialproperty,proposedfor

demolitionandredevelopment;

Jefferson,NewYork11777, - 0PerryStreet,Port

SCTM#206-21-6-3,describedasa0.11acre

redevelopment; vacantlot,proposedfor

Jefferson,NewYork11777, - []PerryStreet,Port

SCTM#206-21-6-4,describedasa0.22acre

redevelopment; vacantlot,proposedfor

heard. giventheopportunitytobe personinterestedwillbe AtsaidPublicHearingany

December15,2022 VillageClerk BarbaraSakovich

12083012/153xptr

ADVERTISEMENTTOBID NOTICETOBIDDERS–

Noticeisherebygiventhat

acceptsealedbidsfor: theTownofBrookhavenwill

BID#22071

BeachPark,EastShoreham. WoodvilleRoadtoShoreham projectslimitsextendfrom: ofEastShoreham.The CountryRoadintheHamlet siteislocatedonNorth

11997012/156xptr

SuffolkCounty TownofBrookhaven, Shoreham HamletofEast Project TransportationAlternatives NorthCountryRoad PIN:0761.83

Jefferson TOAMENDSECTIONS245-52,245-54, Brookhaven andthework TheOwneristhe Townof

alllabor,materials,machinery,tools,equipmentand

walls,newdrainage handicapramps,retaining drivewayapronsand sidewalkswithcurb, thefollowing: Installationof notnecessarilylimitedto specificationsincluding,but describedinthese shownontheplansand thecompletionofthework necessaryandincidentalto othermeansofconstruction

structuresandmodificationstoexistingstructures,

asphaltpavementrestoration,landscaperestoration,

signingandstriping.

January2022aspostedon finalizedandadoptedon Specifications,officially andNYSDOTStandard

theNewYorkStateDepartmentofTransportation’s

thesuccessfulbidder. websitemustbefollowedby

Goal 6.9%WomenEmployment Goal 5.8%MinorityEmployment forthisprojectare: TheEEOEmploymentgoals forthisproject. TherearenoM/WBEgoals projectis: 10% The DBEgoal forthis

TheuseoftheNYSDOT

approvedcivilrightsreportingsoftware,EquitableBusinessOpportunities(EBO),is

required.AccessauthorizationtoEBOcanbe

foundathttps://ebo.dot.ny. gov/.

project.ApplicableFederal willbeineffectforthis geographicalrestrictions Noresidentialor

requirementstakeprecedenceoverStateandlocal

stringent. deemedtobemore andlocalrequirementsare requirementsunlessstate

December15,2022andwill availablebeginning ContractDocumentswillbe

include:InvitationtoBidders,InstructionstoBidders,WageRates,Bid

LEGALS con’t on pg. 2

Theworkincludesproviding 8

LEGALS

LEGALS con’t from pg. 1

expense,asfollows: maybeexamined,atno Drawings,andanyAddenda, Specifications,Contract SpecialNotes, Documents,Agreement,

To Place A Legal Notice

Email: legals@tbrnewsmedia.com

· Accesswebsite:MunicipalMarket|Brookhaven,

onlinkforBids. NY(brookhavenny.gov):click

Followdirectionstoregisteranddownloaddocument.

followinge-mail: submittedinwritingtothe · Questionsmustbe

PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov

bidopening. businessdayspriortothe acceptedwithinthree(3) regardingthisbidwillbe Noquestionsorinquiries

ContractorsthatobtainContractDocumentsfroma

AddendaandanyotherBid PlanHolderList,toreceive beplacedontheofficial theissuingofficeinorderto issuingofficemustnotify sourceotherthanthe

correspondence.BidsreceivedfromContractors

notbeaccepted. officialPlanHoldersListwill otherthanthoseonthe

sentbyTownwillactas Bidder,totheAddendum emailedresponsefromthe PlanHoldersList.An Bidderslistedontheofficial fromTownofBrookhavento Addendawillbeemailed

proofthattheBidderreceivedtheAddendum.FailureofanyBiddertoreceive

anysuchAddendumor

interpretationshallnotrelivesuchBidderfromany

theContractDocuments. issuedshallbecomepartof submittal.AllAddendaso obligationunderthisBid

bedirectedtotheTown ContractDocumentsshould Questionsregardingthe

PurchasingDepartmenteitherthroughemailat:

PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov.Bidders

PurchasingDepartmentof shallpromptlynotifythe

theContractDocuments

within5daysofbidopening.

Allbidsmustincludethe

completedBidForm,NonCollusiveBiddingand

PreferredMethod

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

- Followdirectionstoregisteranddownloaddocument.

InstructionstoBidders.No describedinthe Thisisaunitpricebidas andLobbyingCertifications. DisbarmentCertifications,

permissivereferendumand Fundshallbesubjecttoa EquipmentCapitalReserve DistrictPurchaseof fromtheTerryvilleFire

thattheFireDistrictSecretaryshall,withintendays 7

- Questionsmustbesubmittedinwritingtothe

biddermaywithdrawhis/ herbidwithinforty-five(45)

thereof. actualdateoftheopening calendardaysafterthe

Eachbidmustbeaccompaniedbysecurityinan

toBidders. providedintheInstructions subjecttotheconditions ofthebidintheformand percent(5%)oftheamount amountnotlessthanfive

bereceivedinasealed Bidstobeconsideredmust

envelopeatTownofBrookhavenDivisionofPurchasing,OneIndependenceHill,

aloudinthePurchasing bepubliclyopenedandread 2023 atwhichtimetheywill WednesdayJanuary18, 11:00amlocaltime,on Farmingville,NY11738by

Departmentoffice.Bidsreceivedaftertheabovenoted

COUNTRYROAD PIN0761.83–NORTH 22071-SEALEDBIDSFOR beclearlylabeled “BID# Allsealedenvelopesshould timewillnotbeaccepted.

TRANSPORTATIONALTERNATIVESPROJECT.”

Itisthebidder’sresponsibilitytoensurethattheir

statedintheNoticeto receivedafterthetime timelymanner.Allbids PurchasingDepartmentina bidisreceivedbythe

Bidderswillnotbeconsideredandwillbereturned

unopenedtothebidder.

Contractisawardedwillbe TheBiddertowhomthe

requiredtofurnishPerformance,PaymentandGuaranteeBondsfroman

acceptableSuretyCompany

https://www.osc.state.ny. us/state-vendors/vendrep/ vendor-responsibilityforms?redirect=legacy#Construction.

allprovisionsoftheFederal berequiredtocomplywith ThesuccessfulBidderwill

GovernmentEqualEmploymentOpportunityclauses

thiscontract. payprevailingwagerateson bidderswillberequiredto 33F.27804).Successful Register(41CFRPart60-1, publishedintheFederal LaboronMay2,1968and issuedbytheSecretaryof

TheTownofBrookhaven

reservestherighttoconsiderthebidsforforty-five

(45)daysafterreceipt

beforeawardinganyContract,andtowaiveany

TownofBrookhavenshall made.Receiptofbidsbythe awardofcontractmaybe Departmentbeforeany TownofBrookhavenLaw reviewandapprovalbythe Allbidsaresubjecttofinal toreject,anyandallbids. minorinformalitiesin,and

notbeconstruedasauthoritytobindtheTownof

anyerrors,omissions,conflictsorambiguitywithin Transportation,SubtitleA, Regulations,Departmentof 49CodeofFederal 2000dto2000d-4andTitle 78Stat.252,42U.S.C theCivilRightsActof1964, accordancewithTitleVIof

followinge-mail:

Brookhaven.

Theworkwillbesubstantiallycompleted240calendardays fromNoticeto

11/30/2023. readyforfinalpaymenton Proceedandcompletedand

TheNewYorkStateDepartmentofTransportation,in

advertisement,disadvantagedbusinessenterprises

willbeaffordedfullopportunitytosubmitbidsin

nationalorigin,sex,age, groundsofrace,color, discriminatedagainstonthe andwillnotbe responsetothisinvitation

disability/handicapandincomestatusinconsiderationforanaward.

Farmingville,NY11738 OneIndependenceHill, DivisionofPurchasing TownofBrookhaven OwnersContact

PurchasingGroup@ BrookhavenNY.gov

12138012/151xptr

NOTICETOBIDDERS

TownHallLobbyoftheTown aloudat11:00a.m.inthe publiclyopenedandread SealedBidswillbereceived,

ofBrookhaven,OneIndependenceHill,ThirdFloor,

datesindicated: thefollowingitem(s)onthe Farmingville,NY11738,for

Bid#22077 –Furnishand

completiononlineat formsandinstructionfor BiddermayfindtheCCA-2 onfilewithNYSDOT,the notcurrentlyhaveaCCA-2 thesuccessfulBidderdoes beingawardedacontract.If filewithNYSDOTpriorto haveanapprovedCCA-2on allsubcontractorsmust ThesuccessfulBidderand 100%oftheacceptedbid. foranamountnotlessthan December15,2022. availablebeginning

PurchasingGroup@ brookhavenny.gov

informalitiesor allbidsandtowaiveany anddeclareinvalidanyor reservestherighttoreject TheTownofBrookhaven

irregularitiesintheproposalsreceived,allinthebest

interestsoftheTown.The

TownofBrookhavenwelcomesandencourages

minoritiesandwomenownedbusinessesandHUD

process. participateinthebidding Section3businessesto

451-6252 obtainedbycalling(631) Furtherinformationcanbe

TOWNOFBROOKHAVEN DeputyCommissioner KathleenC.Koppenhoefer

12139012/151xptr

NewYork PortJeffersonStation, TERRYVILLEFIREDISTRICT

FireDistrict,intheTownof Commissioners,Terryville thattheBoardofFire NOTICEISHEREBYGIVEN

Brookhaven,CountyofSuffolk,StateofNewYork,

Dated:December8,2022 DISTRICT OFTHETERRYVILLEFIRE OFFIRECOMMISSIONERS BYORDEROFTHEBOARD

DeliveryofHydrogenPeroxideandSupportServicesat

Medical&PetSupplies, Bid#22080 –Veterinary 5,2023 Poles&Brackets-----January Bid#22079 –StreetLight Landfill-----January5,2023 theTownofBrookhaven

enteredintopursuanttothis insurethatinanycontract bidthatitwillaffirmatively forproposalorinvitationto relatedsolicitation,request allwhorespondtothe tosuchAct,herebynotifies amended,issuedpursuant andRelatedStatutes,as Part200,TitleVIProgram CodeofFederalRegulations, TransportationandTitle23 oftheDepartmentof Federally-assistedprograms 21,Nondiscriminationin OfficeoftheSecretary,Part thisexpenditureoffunds FURTHERRESOLVEDthat

NY11776 PORTJEFFERSONSTATION, 19JAYNEBOULEVARD

FIREDISTRICT OFTHETERRYVILLE ORGANIZATIONALMEETING NOTICEOF2023

meetingoftheBoardofFire the2023Organizational PLEASETAKENOTICEthat

CommissionersoftheTerryvilleFireDistrictwillbe

York. PortJeffersonStation,New Office,19JayneBoulevard, time)attheFireDistrict 2023at6:00pm(prevailing heldonTuesday,January3,

RebidIII-----January5,2023

Specificationsfortheabovereferencedbidswillbe

andtruckvalves. imagingcameras,Hydrant Bulletproofvests,Thermal Fundinordertopurchase: EquipmentCapitalReserve FireDistrictPurchaseof bemadefromtheTerryville thesumof$45,000.00to expenditurenottoexceed “RESOLVEDTHATan resolution: adoptthefollowing deliberationthereupondid December8,2022afterdue regularmeetingon beingdulyconvenedinthe

TheRegularmeetingsofthe

BoardofFireCommissionerswillbeheldonthe

2023. (prevailingtime)during ofeachmonthat6:00pm SecondandFourthThursday

TerryvilleFireDistrict FireCommissionersofthe ByOrderoftheBoardof

DatedDecember9,2022

DistrictSecretary MarilynPeterson

12142012/151xptr

effectuatethesame.” takeanystepsnecessaryto tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com •

tbrnewsmedia.com

resolution,publishtherequirednoticeandotherwise tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com •

tbrnewsmedia.com

fromadoptionofthis tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com • tbrnewsmedia.com •

tbrnewsmedia.com

Hahn, professionals and parents lead fight against local drug addiction

BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn (D-Setauket) joined forces with the Westburybased Long Island Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence to inform residents about the increased danger of opioidrelated deaths during the holiday season and the threat of street drugs.

The legislator, treatment providers and family members of those who have died from opioidrelated deaths, some holding posters featuring photos of their deceased loved ones, gathered at a press conference held outside Hahn’s Port Jefferson office on Tuesday, Dec. 13.

Steve Chassman, executive director of LICADD, said the area is “rich in resources, and we are going to need them.” He listed some of the organizations that provide services 24 hours a day for those dealing with drug use and their families, such as Seafield Center of Westhampton Beach and Hope House Ministries of Port Jefferson as well as LICADD.

“We are here because it is absolutely necessary to let Long Islanders know the drug supply, not just heroin — cocaine, amphetamines, ecstasy, pressed pills — are tainted with fentanyl,” Chassman said.

He added that the death rate due to drug overdoses continues to rise, and for many families the holiday season is not a season of peace and joy.

“For families that are in the throes of substance use or opiate-use disorder, this is a time of isolation. This is a time of stigma. This is a time of financial insecurity, and we know that the rate itself, that of self-medication, increases exponentially,” Chassman said. “We’re having this press conference to let families know they’re not alone.”

Hahn said according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, winter is when drug-related deaths spike, most likely due to

holiday gatherings or experiencing depression during the winter season.

“The months of March, January and February, respectively, are traditionally the deadliest of the year for overdoses,” she said.

Hahn encouraged families to take advantage of the resources available to them.

“Too many families already face empty chairs at their tables, but there is always hope,” the county legislator said. “Recovery is possible.”

Carole Trottere, of Old Field, lost her son Alex Sutton to a heroin-fentanyl overdose in April 2018.

She said the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration now refers to overdose deaths as poisoning. The DEA has stated that six out of 10 illegal pills tested had fentanyl.

“Using street drugs is the equivalent of playing Russian roulette with your life,” Trottere said. “It’s not if it will kill you, it’s when.”

Trottere advised parents not to “hide their heads in the sand.” She said to talk to their children about the dangers of drug use and to reach out to an organization for help when needed.

Anthony Rizzuto, Seafield Center director of provider relations, said, “When I first got involved in this advocacy fight, we were at about 74,000 [deaths],” he said. “We’re looking at each other, how can we let this happen? We are now at 107,000.”

This number from the CDC, for the year ending January 2022, reflects the opioidrelated deaths in the U.S.

Rizzuto said one of the challenges of providing help is the stigma attached to drug use, and people being hesitant to talk about it.

“There is no shame in getting help for the disease of addiction,” he said.

He reiterated how marijuana, cocaine and fake prescription pills often are laced with fentanyl.

“If you’re not getting your medication from a pharmacy with your name on the label, please be [suspicious],” he said. “Fentanyl kills.”

For information on how to get help, visit www. licadd.org, or call the hotline, 631-979-1700.

Suffolk County considered high risk for COVID once again

BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised Suffolk County residents to wear masks while at indoor public spaces regardless of their vaccination status

The recommendation is due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in the county. According to the Suffolk County Department of Health, for the week ending Dec. 3, there were 264-290 people hospitalized with COVID-19, and 14 died from the virus in the county. There were 4,168 new cases reported. The reinfection rate for Long Island increased from 10.3 to 18 per 100,000.

Flu cases have also increased. According to the SCDOH, during the week ending Dec. 3, flu cases increased in the county by 85%, from 1,577 confirmed cases to 2,916.

In a video posted to the SCDOH’s social media pages, Dr. Gregson Pigott, county

health commissioner, said the COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (or RSV) infection rates are surging in Suffolk. The cases are in addition to the rise of other common seasonal infectious diseases.

“They are causing too many people to miss work or school and straining our health care systems,” Pigott said.

He urged residents to take precautions such as getting the vaccines for the flu and COVID, noting it is safe to take them together. He added the COVID bivalent booster “has shown to be effective against the older and newer strains of SARS-CoV-2.”

Pigott said the flu shot is a good match for this year’s circulating strains. Currently, there is no vaccine for RSV.

In the video, he reminded residents to wash their hands often and stay home when sick. He added that masks should be clean and well fitted, and used in enclosed public spaces.

“As we head into our third pandemic winter, let us be safe and do our best to protect one another,” Pigott said.

Steve Chassman, of LICADD, shows attendees strips to test drugs for fentanyl at a Dec. 13 press conference in Port Jefferson. Photo by Rita J. Egan

Train Car Park shines bright during tree lighting event

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Dozens of community members, performers, business leaders and public officials gathered at the Train Car Park in Port Jefferson Station Dec. 8, continuing a lasting holiday custom.

The Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce has hosted this event for decades, perennially reuniting the various facets of the community amid festive cheer. Guests were greeted with hot chocolate under a tent, with some chamber members tabling inside.

The stars of the event, Santa and Mrs. Claus, arrived in a stylish fire rescue vehicle supplied by the Terryville Fire Department. Along with them was chamber president Jen Dzvonar, New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook).

Santa and Mrs. Claus spent quality time with the children, sitting for photographs and taking requests for Christmas. Vocalists from the School of Rock performed Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs. Dancers from the Port Jefferson Station-based Backstage Studio of Dance jived to the musical beats of several tunes.

“We try to rally the entire community for a great community event,” Dzvonar said. She responded to the sizable turnout and talented performers by saying, “I think it’s so heartwarming. It’s like a true holiday festival, celebratory and inviting.”

The laughter and fun of the evening were just another positive development in a string of forward momentum for the community this year. Kornreich described the spectacle as exemplifying the area’s distinctiveness and charm.

“By my reckoning, I think this is reason number 74 for why Port Jeff Station is one of the best places to live in Suffolk County,” he said. “This town is changing so quickly, and there are just so many fun things going on here all the time,” adding, “I’m just really happy to be here with everyone from the community on yet another happy occasion in our new park.”

Englebright outlined some of the historical

contexts behind this event. The assemblyman regarded the gradual development of the area and the Train Car Park as the product of decades of joint efforts between community groups, governmental entities and engaged residents.

“To see all of the young people here, and Santa and Mrs. Claus … it is showing us all the direction that this holiday is meant to be in,” the assemblyman said. “It’s very heartening to see the very talented kids, the dancers and the fire department. The whole community is here, and it’s just amazing.”

Gwenn Capodieci is the executive director of the Backstage dance studio. She said her dance groups have performed during this event for the past three years and frequently coordinate with PJSTCC. For her, the evening is a unique opportunity for the dancers to perform before their peers and community members.

“After all, this is a performing art,” she said. “Performing is a big part of it, so to get an opportunity to show that is really great.”

Nicole Terlizzo, artistic director and teacher at the dance studio, said the performances were the product of two months of preparation, with the rehearsals ranging from jazz techniques to hiphop, tap, ballet and others.

“The girls practiced really hard and really came together,” Terlizzo said. “They have a lot of fun doing it, and it’s a fun way to get them out of the studio and in front of the community.”

Paul Perrone, vice president of PJSTCC, summed up why the chamber continues this tradition annually: “It gives people an opportunity to get out of their house and enjoy the community park,” he said. “It helps people feel that Comsewogue — Port Jefferson Station/Terryville — has something to offer everybody.”

Joan Nickeson, the chamber’s community liaison, offered her take as well, citing the tree lighting event as an annual tradition that highlights the area’s continued growth and support.

“It’s an annual Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce tradition, and we’re so fortunate to have a great Santa, support from our electeds, residents and the business community,” she said.

Left to right: Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook), Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce president Jen Dzvonar, Santa Claus, New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), Mrs. Claus, and PJSTCC community liaison Joan Nickeson.

PHOTOS COURTESY STEVE ENGLEBRIGHT’S OFFICE

In memoriam of Charles “Chuck” Ganzenmuller

BY CAROLE GANZENMULLER

My Charles “Chuck” Ganzenmuller, of Sound Beach, passed away sadly on Dec. 13, 2021. I, his wife, Carole, will deeply miss him along with his daughters Sara and Felicia; sons Joe, Charles and Chris; sister Laurie; nephews Anthony and Adam; nine grandchildren; many cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his mother Angela and father Charles.

Chuck loved his family and his childhood in Ridgewood, Queens, which he spoke of very proudly. Both of us were previously married and scared to start over again. By chance we met online in 2003, married in 2005, never looked back and were inseparable ever since.

We may not have been financially rich, but were rich in so many other ways. We loved being together, never went a day without saying, “I love you,” so many laughs, so many smiles, and, yes, there were tears for the sad moments we went through.

I never felt so safe and loved. He would tell anyone that would listen how much he loved

me — from family members, neighbors, even nurses when he was sick. I would come visit him, and they would all say how much your husband loves you. We always shared the phrase, “You me, me you always and forever,” whether we said it or wrote it in a card.

We always supported each other, always friends, together from the start, together to the end. It’s all too easy to take your life for granted, then it seems in a moment your whole world can shatter. Just like a castle in the sand, the water can take it away. How life after that can never be the same. My “You me, me you always and forever” was taken too soon, but I know in another lifetime that I will find you.

Thank you my love for all the beautiful memories we made for me to keep. Goodbyes hurt when the story is not finished and the book has been closed. Until we meet again, you will live forever in my heart.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bryant Funeral Home of Setauket. Visit www.bryantfh. com to sign the online guestbook.

Port Jeff BID illuminates village with a new tree

The Port Jefferson Business Improvement District held a tree-lighting ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 1.

The tree was purchased by the Business Improvement District with the full support of the village government, according to Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden. Santa Claus lit the tree during the event after a countdown from those in attendance.

The night was festive with a snowmaker, hot chocolate from Starbucks, and candy canes

from Roger’s Frigate. Those involved in the planning and lighting of the tree expressed enthusiasm for adding this new holiday staple to Port Jefferson.

During a village board meeting on Monday, Dec. 12, Deputy Mayor Kathianne offered her reflections on the evening: “It was a beautiful event, really fun,” she said. “The kids had a really great time. They got to see Santa, and I think it’s a great addition to the village.”

Left to right, Port Jefferson BID president Roger Rutherford; PJV director of economic development, parking administrator and communications committee head Kevin Wood; Santa; and Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden. Photo courtesy Kevin Wood

Charles “Chuck” Ganzenmuller

Giving peace a chance: NCPG marks 20 years in the fight against war

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

This month, North Country Peace Group marks its 20th anniversary.

Posted at the southeast corner of Route 25A and Bennetts Road in Setauket, NCPG has maintained a visible weekly presence within the community, advocating various causes throughout its history. On Saturday, Dec. 10, some members reflected on this milestone year for their organization and discussed why they remain committed to their cause.

Roots

Bob Becherer was among the founding members of the peace group. He traces the organization’s origins beyond 20 years when, in the early 1990s, a group of civic-oriented parishioners of the St. James R.C. Church formed the Peace and Justice Community.

“It was really out of that group that we became the North Country Peace Group,” Becherer said, crediting Bill McNulty as the founder and leader of both organizations.

In an exclusive interview, McNulty chronicled his “traditional, apolitical” upbringing and his eventual reawakening. Growing up, he said he maintained a 16-year connection to the military. Between U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, ROTC, active duty and active reserve service, McNulty kept in close contact with the military and military culture. Over time, however, he began to question these ties.

Catalyzing McNulty’s transformation was America’s foreign policy throughout Latin America during the 1970s and ’80s. His early advocacy work centered around the School of the Americas, a training ground founded as a bulwark against the spread of communism. Over time, McNulty said, the school devolved. A string of murders and rapes connected to the School of the Americas prompted him into action.

During that time, McNulty said he devoted his energies to “increase the knowledge among the American population that this school existed and that we were, through our tax dollars, paying for training for these soldiers.” His resistance led him to a federal prison, where he served for six months.

Within the full swing of these events, McNulty soon got involved with the Peace and Justice Community, initially focusing on America’s involvement in Iraq during the Persian Gulf War (1990-91). As the PJC’s work took on more secular aims, they moved out of the church and onto the streets. NCPG emerged from the second Iraq War (2003-11).

Organizational principles

McNulty offered some of the philosophical precepts underpinning the NCPG’s activism. He said the group seeks to challenge conventional wisdom, to prompt community members to think critically about the information authorities give them. Through this, he said the group has often met fierce resistance from dogmatists and partisans.

“Very often, when you bring a message that’s contrary to the conventional wisdom, they get angry at you,” he said. “They don’t want to hear what you have to offer because it’s very startling and shocking. There’s a cognitive dissonance.”

McNulty maintained that NCPG, since its inception, has rejected the notion of reciprocal violence. “The Old Testament thinking of an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, you have to break it with that idea of love and acceptance,” he said.

He viewed the human propensity toward violence as a conflict between instincts and ideals. Though he held that most people are born peaceful and good, he sees many as conditioned to accept violence and war as the natural order.

“People, I think, are pretty good, but they

acquire a lot of these characteristics as a result of what they experience in life,” he said. “Down deep, people are good because they always act well when the dog falls down the well or when the tornado rips the roof off the house.”

McNulty said that overcoming aggression requires conscious effort, but doing so may be the recipe for lasting peace. “The idea is to take the words of the song, the words of the poem, to take the suggestion of the painting or the sculpture or whatever else and to put it into practice,” he said. “It’s a very hard job.”

Two decades into the struggle for peace

One of the essential features of NCPG throughout its 20-year history has been the persistence of its members. Member Susan Perretti regards the organization as a weekly reminder to the community that there is an alternative to unceasing human conflicts worldwide.

“We’re sort of a reminder to the community that passes us by,” she said. “It’s a reminder that we still have war — endless war — going on and that violence itself is not the answer.”

Robert Marcus, another NCPG member, said the fight for peace and preserving democracy go hand in hand. He said that standing on the street corner is a way to promote both ends.

“We have to do everything we can to make a more peaceful world,” Marcus said. “We can’t just take it for granted. We have to work really hard for peace and to strengthen our democracy because it’s under threat.”

For John Robinson, participating in the peace group’s various activities is a way to connect to a larger cause and to make a difference on a grander stage. “It feels good to be around people who have the same concerns, the same thoughts, the same issues that I do,” he said. “Coming out here makes a real statement about the need for peace and the need to treat each other well.”

Myrna Gordon said she and NCPG use their platform to advocate a new mode of thinking around the way the United States government spends its taxpayer dollars. According to her, too great a share of the federal budget is devoted to perpetuating violence.

“We need to move the money out of the military and back into human needs and human lives so that we will have that money and be able to fix roads, provide better education, health care and everything else,” she said.

An alternative to war

McNulty was asked if he believes a lasting peace is possible or if humanity is doomed to a fate of unending war. He admitted that lasting peace may not be attainable but that pursuing such an ideal is.

“We would like to hope that it is possible,” he said. “We helped each other to a great extent, and we have affected a few people around our immediate neighborhood, but they’re still making war. The School of the Americas is still open, still training soldiers to keep people under control.”

Perretti offered a slightly different take by suggesting humanity could adapt itself to a condition without war.

“The point is that we have to evolve past this idea — as a human species and not just as Americans — that war and killing one another is the only solution,” she said. “I don’t know what that takes, but for me I’m here because I won’t give up the struggle, and I want to be faithful to what I believe in my heart.”

Whether humans can coexist and overcome violence is still to be decided. Twenty years after their organization’s founding, members of North Country Peace Group remain stationed at their usual street corner, committed to giving peace its fair shake.

Above, members of North Country Peace Group on Saturday, Dec. 10. Below, Bill McNulty, one of the founders and thought leaders within the organization. Above by Raymond Janis, below courtesy Myrna Gordon

‘We have to evolve past this idea — as a human species and not just as Americans — that war and killing one another is the only solution.’

— SUSAN PERRETTI

Miller Place 53 Port Je erson 37

Panthers press, contain Royals offense

BY BILL LANDON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Saturday, Dec. 10.

The Panthers were up seven points going into the halftime break but stretched their lead the rest of the way to win it, 53-37.

scoring chart for the Royals with 14 points, and teammate Luke Dickhuth dropped 11.

SPORTS

Competing on their home court, the Port Jefferson Royals struggled to gain traction against the defensive press of Miller Place during a non-league matchup

Joe Strickland led the way for the Panthers with 12 points, Tristan Stapleton netted 11 and Nick Fusco banked 10. Tyler Cobb topped the

The win inks the Panthers’ first win this early season as the loss drops the Royals to 1-2.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Clockwise from upper left: Miller Place junior Jack Tremblay tries to block Conor Daily’s shot; Port Jefferson’s Tyler Cobb nails a three-pointer; Miller Place forward Nick Fusco boxes out Dan Brosnan; Miller Place junior Joe Strickland battles down low.

Automobiles/Trucks Vans/Rec Vehicles

DONATEYOURCARTO BREASTCANCERRESEARCH RECOVERY!TaxDeductionReceiptGivenUponPick-up,Free Towing.501c3Charity. 631-988-9043 breastcancerresearchrecovery. org

JUNKCARSBOUGHT! We’llBeatAnyPrice. Call631-500-1015. SEEDISPLAYADFORMOREINFORMATION.

TOPCASHPAIDFORALL TRUCKS,CARS,&VANS. Highestpricespaidforfixable vehicles.CallMark 631-258-7919. SEEDISPLAY ADFORMOREINFORMATION.

Auto Services

DRIVEOUTBREASTCANCER

Donateacartoday,Thebenefits ofdonatingyourcarorboat,Fast FreePickup,24hrResponse, TaxDeduction,EasyToDo,Call 24/7855-905-4755.

Health, Fitness & Beauty

ATTENTIONVIAGRAUSERS: Generic100mgbluepillsor generic20mgyellowpills.Get 45plus5free$99+S/H.Call Today.877-707-5523

Musical Instruments

BLUESMANPIANOTUNING

Certifiedpianotechnician, 631-681-9723, bluesmanpianotuning@gmail. com, www.bluesmanpianotuning.com

GUITARINSTRUCTION-Intelligent,focused,empathic instructionforguitar,bass,all frettedinstruments.Allstyles, levels.Setauketstudio.Coyote Music(631)721-5004

Financial Services

AREYOUBEHIND$10kOR MOREONYOURTAXES?Stop wage&banklevies,liens& audits,unfiledtaxreturns,payrollissues,&resolvetaxdebt FAST.Call888-869-5361 (Hours:Mon-Fri7am-5pmPST)

Schools/Instruction/ Tutoring

PIANO-GUITAR-BASS Allages-levels-styles. Manylocalreferences. Recommendedbyallarea schools.TonyMann, 631-473-3443,631-332-6005

Finds Under 50

1LARGE(LIVE)X-MASTREE, willcutandtrim,$50 631-689-9309.

2FRAMEDPICTURESOF BALLETDANCERS (each14”X17”)byFrench impressionistpainter EdgarDegas,only$50Call 631-689-7732.

ANTIQUECLAWFOOTTUB c.1911,bestoffer,PortJefferson Call631-474-3310.

BEAUTIFULFENDER ACOUSTICGUITARwithelectricinputs,perfectcondition, hardlyused,withStand,Bargain at$50,631-689-9226.

BOOKSHELF.CHERRY (43hX32W).ThreeShelves. ExcellentCondition.$30 (631)751-4563

CHRISTMASTREE

VICTORIANSTYLE7plusfoot, needsassemblyandlights, Beautifulwhendecorated, Asking$35,631-864-9273leave message

FLUORESCENTSHOP FIXTURE4foot,2bulb Asking$20.00Call 631-744-3722

LENDJET2-LAVENDER. Boxed,brandnew,duplicategift. $30.00Greatholidaygift. 631-689-8616.

PAIRANTIQUEMATCHING SCROLLEDHEAVYIRON GARDENGATES,28inches high,34incheswide(pair),each $35,solidsinglyorbythepair 631-331-5291.

WIISYSTEM

2handles,5CD’swithmultiple choiceofgames,manual,perfectcondition,sacrifice,$50Call 631-320-1209.

Housesitting Services

TRAVELING? Needsomeonetocheckonyour home? ContactTenderLovingPet Care,LLC.We’remorethanjust pets.Insured/Bonded. 631-675-1938

Miscellaneous

DISHTV$64.99For190Channels+$14.95HighSpeedInternet.FreeInstallation,SmartHD DVRIncluded,FreeVoiceRemote.Somerestrictionsapply. PromoExpires1/21/23. 1-888-609-9405

GETDIRECTVFOR$64.99/MO FOR12MONTHSWITH CHOICEPACKAGE.Savean additional$120over1styear. First3monthsofHBOMax, Cinemax,Showtime,Starzand Epixincluded!Directvis#1in CustomerSatisfaction(JD Power&Assoc.)Somerestrictionsapply.Call 1-888-534-6918

Miscellaneous

WHEELSFORWISHESBENEFITINGMAKE-A-WISH ® NORTHEASTNEWYORK.Your CarDonationsMatterNOW MoreThanEver!FreeVehicle PickUpANYWHERE.We AcceptMostVehiclesRunning orNot.100%TaxDeductible. MinimalToNoHumanContact. Call:(877)798-9474.CarDonationFoundationd/b/aWheels ForWishes.www. wheelsforwishes.org.

SUBSCRIBE

For the publications of 12/22 & 12/29

The deadline is Tuesday, December 20th at 12:00pm

For the publication of 1/5/23

The deadline is Tuesday, January 3rd at 12:00pm

EMPLOYMENT/CAREERS

Help Wanted

MENTNOTICE:Allemploymentadvertisinginthisnewspaperissubjecttosection296 ofthehumanrightslawwhich makesitillegaltoadvertise anypreference,limitationor discriminationbasedonrace, color,creed,nationalorigin, disability,maritalstatus,sex, ageorarrestconvictionrecord oranintentiontomakeany suchpreference,limitationor discrimination.Title29,U.S. CodeChap630,excludesthe FederalGov’t.fromtheage discriminationprovisions.This newspaperwillnotknowingly acceptanyadvertisingforemploymentwhichisinviolation ofthelaw.Ourreadersareinformedthatemploymentofferingsadvertisedinthisnewspaperareavailableonanequal opportunitybasis.

ADMINISTRATIVEOPENING FallsburgCentralSchoolAssistantDirectorofPupilPersonnel ServicesNYSSDAorSDLCertificationRequiredPleaseforwardresume&Fallsburg’sapplication(locatedat fallsburgcd.net)byDec23rdto: Fallsburg-recruitment@ scboces.orgAttn:PPSAssistant DirectorSearchEOE

DATAENTRYANDWORD PROCESSING

Maintaindatabasebyentering newandupdatedcustomerand accountinformation. CytoGenX,StonyBrook $17FT/PT(Benefits) 631-751-0212.

HIRINGMAILSORTERS

$16.00-$17.00,Pickers/PackersSpringfieldGardens,$17.00. MysteryShoppersAges21-25 $20.00.860LongIslandAve., DeerParkNY631-586-4699

TRAINONLINETODOMEDICALBILLING!BecomeaMedicalOfficeProfessionalonlineat CTI!GetTrained,Certified& readytoworkinmonths!Call 855-543-6440.(M-F8am-6pm ET).Computerwithinternetis required.

PROGRAM!TrainONLINEto gettheskillstobecomeaComputer&HelpDeskProfessional now!GrantsandScholarships availableforcertainprograms forqualifiedapplicants.CallCTI fordetails!844-947-0192(M-F 8am-6pmET).Computerwith

Carpentry

LONGHILLCARPENTRY

45yearsexperience Allphasesofhomeimprovement.Old&HistoricRestorations.Mastercard/VisaLic. #H22336/Ins.631-751-1764 longhill7511764@aol.com

Cesspool Services

MRSEWERMANCESSPOOL

SERVICEAlltypesofcesspoolservicing,allworkguaranteed,familyownedandoperatedsince1985, 631-924-7502. LicensedandInsured.

Clean-Ups

LETSTEVEDOIT

Clean-ups,yards,basements, wholehouse,painting,tree work,localmovingand anythingelse.Totally overwhelmed? CallSteve@631-745-2598, leavemessage.

Exterminating

Fences

SMITHPOINTFENCE. DEERPROBLEM?WECAN HELP!Wood,PVC,ChainLink, Stockade.Freeestimates. Nowoffering12monthinterest freefinancing. Commercial/Residential. 70JayneBlvd.,PJS.Lic.37690H/Ins.631-743-9797 www.smithpointfence.com.

Floor Services/Sales

FINESANDING& REFINISHING WoodFloorInstallations

CraigAliperti,WoodFloorsLLC. Allworkdonebyowner. 30yearsexperience. Lic.#47595-H/Insured. 631-875-5856

Furniture/Restoration/ Repairs

REFINISHING& RESTORATION

Antiquesrestored,repairing recane,reupholstery,touch-ups kitchen,frontdoors,40yrsexp, SAVE$$$,freeestimates. VincentAlfano631-707-1228

Home Improvement

ALLPHASESOF HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Home Improvement

BLUSTARRENOVATIONS

TheNorthShore’sMostTrusted RenovationExperts. 631-751-0751 Welovesmalljobstoo! SuffolkLic.#48714-H,Ins.

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION.

DON’TPAYFORCOVERED HOMEREPAIRSAGAIN! AmericanResidentialWarranty coversALLMAJORSYSTEMS ANDAPPLIANCES.30DAY RISKFREE/$100OFF POPULARPLANS. 833-398-0526

LAMPSFIXED,$65. InHomeService!!Handy Howard.Mycell646-996-7628

Home Repairs/ Construction

LUXDISASTER RESTORATION24/7 EmergencyCleanupandrestoration,Flood,Sewage,Storm damage,firedamage,basement waterproofingandfinishing,Call 631-287-4700

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

Lawn & Landscaping

SETAUKETLANDSCAPE DESIGN

StoneDriveways/Walkways, Walls/Stairs/Patios/Masonry, Brickwork/RepairsLand Clearing/Drainage,Grading/ Excavating.Plantings/Mulch, RainGardens. SteveAntos,631-689-6082 setauketlandscape.com ServingThreeVillages

Masonry

CARLBONGIORNO LANDSCAPE/MASON CONTRACTOR

AllphasesMasonryWork:Stone Walls,Patios,Poolscapes.All phasesofLandscapingDesign. ThemeGardens.Residential& Commercial.Lic/Ins. 631-928-2110

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

ALLPROPAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PowerWashing,Staining, WallpaperRemoval.Free estimates.Lic/Ins#19604HI 631-696-8150.Nick

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

WORTHPAINTING

“PAINTINGWITHPRIDE” Interiors/exteriors.Staining& deckrestoration,powerwashing,wallpaperremoval, sheetrocktape/spackling, carpentry/trimwork.Leadpaint certified.References.Freeestimates.Lic./Ins.SINCE1989 RyanSouthworth. SEEDISPLAYADFORMOREINFO 631-331-5556

Power Washing

THREEVILLAGEPOWERWASHINGLLC

MOREINFORMATION.

Fromattictoyourbasement, RCJConstruction www.rcjconstruction.com commercial/residential,lic/ins 631-580-4518.

BATH&SHOWERUPDATESin aslittleasONEDAY!Affordable prices-Nopaymentsfor18 months!Lifetimewarranty&professionalinstalls.Senior&MilitaryDiscountsavailable.Call: 866-393-3636

WIREMAN/CABLEMANFlat TVsmounted,Phone,TVs& Computerwiringinstalled& serviced,camera&stereos, HDTVAntennas,FREETV www.davewireman.com CallDave516-433-WIRE(9473) 631-667-WIRE(9473)orText 516-353-1118

Home Repairs/ Construction

LUXDEVELOPMENTGROUP

Historicalrestorations,Extensions&Dormers,Cedarsiding andClapboardinstallation, basementrenovations,kitchen &Bathrooms,doors&windows, finishedcarpentry&moulding Call631-283-2266

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

SWANCOVE LANDSCAPING

LawnMaintenance,Cleanups,Shrub/TreePruning, Removals.LandscapeDesign/ Installation,Ponds/Waterfalls, StoneWalls.Firewood.Free estimates.Lic/Ins.631-6898089

Landscape Materials

SCREENEDTOPSOIL

Mulch,compost,decorative anddrivewaystone,concrete pavers,sand/block/portland. Fertilizerandseed. JOS.M.TROFFA MATERIALSCORP. 631-928-4665,www.troffa.com

BOB’SPAINTINGSERVICE 25YearsExperience. Interior/ExteriorPainting, Spackling,Staining,Wallpaper Removal,StainingandDeck RestorationPowerWashing. FreeEstimates.Lic/Ins.#17981. 631-744-8859

LAROTONDA PAINTING&DESIGN Interior/exterior,sheetrock repairs,taping/spackling,wallpaperremoval,faux,decorative finishings.Freeestimates.Lic. #53278-H/Ins.RossLaRotonda 631-689-5998

We’remorethanpowerwashing. Weoffershrinkwrappingforoutdoorfurnitureandboats,snow removalservicesavailable. Threevillagepowerwashing.com 631-678-7313.

Satellite TV

BESTSATELLITETVWITH2 YEARPRICEGUARANTEE, $59.99/mowith190 channelsand3monthsfreepremiummoviechannels,Freenext dayinstallation,Call 888-508-5313

Tree Work

ARBOR-VISTATREECARE ACOMPLETETREECARE SERVICEdevotedtothecare oftrees.Maintenancepruning, water-viewwork,sun-trimming, elevating,poolareas,storm thinning,largetreeremoval, stumpgrinding.Woodchips. Lic#18902HI.Freeestimates. 631-246-5377

PUBLISHERS’NOTICE

AllrealestateadvertisedhereinissubjecttotheFederalFair HousingAct,whichmakesit illegaltoadvertise“anypreference,limitation,ordiscriminationbecauseofrace,color,religion,sex,handicap,familial status,ornationalorigin,orintentiontomakeanysuchpreference,limitation,ordiscrimination.”

Wewillnotknowinglyaccept anyadvertisingforrealestate whichisinviolationofthelaw. Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellingsadvertisedareavailableonan equalopportunitybasis.

YES!BrettonWoodsoffersclubhouse,golfcourse,indoorand outdoorpools,tennis,restaurantsandactivities.1,2,3bedroomcondosfrom$290,000, Rentalsalsoavailable, StrathmoreEastEquities 631-698-3400.

SETAUKETHighVisibility,25A, cornerofficesuitewithlarge plateglasswindow,privatebath, ownthermostat,nicelydecorated,offstreetparking,Village TimesBuilding,Call 631-751-7744.

Editorial Letters to the Editor

Putting age before youth: Caught in COVID’s crosshairs

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unforeseen challenges for nearly everyone in our nation and world.

COVID-19 has already claimed the lives of 6.65 million people around the globe, 1.09 million of which are in the U.S. Countless more have been infected, with the illness hitting hardest the elderly and those with preexisting conditions. In this time, however, perhaps no demographic sacrificed more greatly than our youth.

We made a decision: Would we let the kids — who were not nearly as vulnerable to the disease as their older counterparts — continue their lives as usual? Or would we limit their inperson activities and restrict their social gatherings to curb the spread of COVID-19? Given a choice between age and youth, we opted for age.

Many children were shut out from traditional social interactions during those critical early years of their emotional and psychological maturation. Sadly, many high school seniors lost their graduation ceremonies, proms and final sport seasons.

In the absence of interpersonal connections, our young became increasingly dependent upon their technologies. Zoom sessions quickly replaced the classroom. Video games supplanted schoolyards and after-school hangouts. Their relationships with the outer world became mediated through a digital screen.

There is still much to learn about the long-term social and psychological impact of the pandemic on our youth. How will the frequent COVID scares, forced separations, quarantines and widespread social panic affect their developing minds? This remains an open question.

As we transition into the post-COVID era, we know that our young will have difficulty adapting. Right now, they need our help more than ever.

The generation that came out of World War I is often called the “Lost Generation.” A collective malaise defined their age following the shock and violence during that incredible human conflict.

Members of the Lost Generation were often characterized by a tendency to be adrift, disengaged from public life and disconnected from any higher cause or greater purpose. Right now, our youngsters are in jeopardy of seeing a similar fate.

Like the Great War, the COVID-19 pandemic was outside the control of our children, with the lockdowns and mandates precipitating from it. Yet, as is often the case, the young bore more than their share of hardship.

We cannot allow Gen Z to become another Lost Generation. They have suffered much already, and it is time that we repay them for their collective sacrifice. To make up for that lost time, parents and teachers must try to put in that extra effort.

Read with them, keep up with their studies, and apply the necessary balance of support and pressure so that they can be stimulated and engaged in school. Keep them from falling behind.

Remember to limit their use of technology, encouraging instead more face-to-face encounters with their peers. These interactions may be uncomfortable, but they are essential for being a fully realized human being. Devices cannot substitute these vital exchanges.

As it is often said, difficult times foster character and grit. Perhaps these COVID years will make the young among us stronger and wiser. But we must not allow the COVID years to break them either.

Despite their lost years, with a little effort and love they will not become another lost generation.

Season of thanks

The Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce has many people, businesses and organizations to thank for another successful holiday tree lighting at our Chamber Train Car, which took place Thursday, Dec. 8.

We are grateful to our young volunteers, Sophia Gregorio, Will Dzvonar, Daphne Dzvonar, Lucy Browning and Snow Browning. We are our especially thankful to chamber members Backstage Studio of Dance, Bass Electric, Buttercup’s Dairy Store, Christmas Decor by Emerald Magic, Colonial Coffee Co., Cumsewogue Historical Society, I Believe in Santa Long Island, Mariano Rivera Honda of Port Jefferson, One River School of Art & Design, School of Rock, Snapshot Long Island, Suffolk Tent and Party Rentals, Team Perrone at Realty Connect USA, TBR News Media, Terryville Fire Department and Your CBD Store Port Jeff Station.

Thank you to our board of directors, and attendance by New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright [D-Setauket], Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich [D-Stony Brook] and the folks in our community.

It all works. Together. Happy holidays. Jennifer Dzvonar, President PJS/Terryville Chamber of Commerce

Reaction to Monday’s capital bonds vote

Shame on you, Port Jefferson.

In response to a desperate plea for funds to upgrade our school system’s ventilation, bathrooms and classroom spaces, the residents of Port Jeff said “no.” What?

How can it be that providing even the most basic up-to-date, safe and sanitary facilities for our children is considered unworthy of our support? Proposition 1 would have remedied decades of underinvestment in our community’s most precious asset — our kids. Instead, they will be left using locker and bathroom facilities that none of us would put up with in our own homes, breathing air that isn’t fit for this pandemic — no less the next one — and walking in the cold rain between classes housed across multiple buildings.

This disgraceful inability to come together for the betterment of our village is deeply disappointing. We are better than this.

Heather Lynch Port Jefferson

Party chairs are out of touch

In reading the Dec. 8 TBR interview with Suffolk Democratic and Republican party chairs Rich Schaffer and Jesse Garcia [“Suffolk’s two party leaders dissect

midterm election results”], I was struck by how both men are deeply out of touch. For working-class and poor people, government serves as a lifeline. For those who struggle to survive on Long Island, elections are not a game of red vs. blue.

WRITE TO US … We welcome your letters. They should be no longer than 400 words and may be edited for length, libel, style and good taste. We do not publish anonymous letters. Please include a phone number and address for confirmation. Email letters to: editor1@tbrnewsmedia.com or mail them to TBR News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733

the community first and will be the type of public servant in the mold of Englebright.

This lack of understanding is clear in Garcia’s crowing over the defeat of state Assemblyman Steve Englebright [D-Setauket]. Englebright has been a champion for environmental protection, public education, and has brought home tens of millions of dollars in resources to our community. If you believe in government as a public good, you’d be hard pressed to find a better legislator than Englebright. However, for Garcia, this is just a game, and he has no qualms about taking out Englebright and replacing him with a nonentity like Ed Flood [R-Port Jefferson], who is unlikely to deliver for this community.

Flood’s campaign was built on sharing fearmongering New York Post articles, stoking racial resentment and offering “change,” while never articulating how “change” could occur as a freshman member of the minority party, which will be outnumbered more than 2:1. Unfortunately, our community will find this out when Flood fails to bring home the resources that Englebright did.

With that said, Garcia is a perfect embodiment of today’s Republican Party — petty, cruel and power hungry for the sake of power itself.

Schaffer is deeply out of step with today’s Democratic Party. As a Democrat who also runs as a Conservative in his elected town position [of Babylon supervisor], he does not represent nor understand the changing and evolving Democratic Party, as is clear in his statements in the article. He has time and again sided with Republicans, including his cheerleading for county District Attorney Ray Tierney [R] in 2021.

Suffolk Democrats deserve a leader that recognizes the need to reach out to youth voters, meet the needs of the growing minority population in the county and embrace the grassroots movements that have grown since 2016. Schaffer has done none of this, and the Democratic Party has been bleeding seats over the past few years. It is time for new leadership that can provide an alternative to Garcia’s worldview and can outorganize the Republican machine.

At the end of the day, we in the 4th Assembly District lost a great public servant in Englebright because of partisan politics. I look forward to reclaiming that seat in 2024 with a Democrat that will put the interests of

I look forward to a stronger, more diverse, better organized Democratic Party that wins elections and works for the people who need the government to work for them.

Shoshana Hershkowitz South Setauket

Editor’s note: The writer is the founder of Suffolk Progressives.

An annual reminder about snow removal

As the winter snow season has arrived, I hope this letter serves as a reminder of how fortunate we are in the village of Port Jefferson when it comes to safe and efficient snow removal.

Having had the privilege of serving as the superintendent of highways for the Town of Brookhaven for nine years, I am acutely aware that snow removal is one of the most critical services a local government can deliver to its residents. The safety of our loved ones and neighbors is naturally our highest priority and we in the village can rest easy knowing that our Department of Public Works, led by Superintendent Steve Gallagher and joined by the department’s dedicated employees, share that same priority.

Please remember that for those employees this is not only a difficult task but a dangerous one as well. In my experience I have found that those working to clear our roads of snow are every bit as critical and heroic as our other emergency service workers during times of crisis.

Please be mindful of this before, during and after snow and ice events this winter. We must all do our part to contribute to the safety of our community and most especially those who are clearing our roadways. It is particularly important to remove all vehicles unnecessarily parked on our streets so as to not impair snow removal operations and equally important to remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary while snow removal operations are underway.

And, finally, when you see a plow operator working on your street please take a moment to give him or her a friendly wave to acknowledge their hard work and to express to them our welldeserved appreciation.

Have a safe, happy and healthy winter. John Rouse Port

Jefferson

Has customer service become a vestigial organ in our culture?

Icould take it personally, you know. I mean, come on! Does this happen to everyone? Okay, so, check it out. First, I’m coming back from the airport, and I’m starving. I don’t tend to eat too much on days when I’m on a plane. I have a sensitive stomach, yeah, right, poor me, and I’m a bit, which is an understatement, of a neurotic flier. The combination doesn’t tend to make travel, food and me a harmonious trio.

D. None of the above

tells me I have to get there within half an hour because they’re closing.

When we arrive home, I bring in my small bag, grab the keys, and race out to the restaurant.

“Are you Dan?” she asks hopefully as I step towards the counter.

“Yes,” I say, realizing that I’ve cut the halfhour mark pretty close.

“Here’s your food,” she says, shoving the bag across the counter.

“This is everything?” I ask.

“What?” I rage, between clenched teeth in the kitchen as I unload the groceries.

“Your salad isn’t here. Did they charge you for it?”

“Yes,” I say, as I grab some slices of turkey I bought for lunch and a few salad items.

professional basketball game. Stunningly, the person operating the scoreboard had the wrong statistics for each player and the wrong names and uniform numbers of the players on the floor.

What’s happening? Is customer service a thing of the past? Are we better off with artificial intelligence or online systems?

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

Okay, so, there I am in the car, on the way home, and my wife can tell that I’m hungry. Ever the solution-finder, she suggests I order food from a local restaurant. When I call, the woman on the phone takes my order, which includes a salad with blackened chicken, and

“Yes,” she says, as she rings me up and is clearly eager for me to step outside so she can lock the door and go on to the portion of her evening that doesn’t involve taking food requests, handing people food and charging them for it, all while standing near a gratuity jar that says, not so subtly, “Even the Titanic tipped.” That, I suppose, should inspire me to consider forking over a few extra dollars.

I stop at the supermarket for a few items next door, drive home and bring the bag into the dining room, where my wife opens it.

“Uh, Dan?” she says tentatively. “They forgot your salad.”

The next day, I called the restaurant to explain that my food didn’t come. The manager said he came in that morning and saw a salad with blackened chicken in the refrigerator. He says he can make a new one that day or can leave me a gift card. I opt for a new salad, When I arrive, the same redheaded woman with a nose ring from the night before greets me.

“If it makes you feel better, I forgot much bigger parts of other people’s order,” she says, with a curious mix of sheepishness, humor and pride.

“No, how is that supposed to make me feel better?” I ask.

Still in food ordering mode, and perhaps not having learned my lesson, I ordered two breakfasts the next morning and, this time, received a single order that was a hybrid of my wife’s and mine.

That night, my wife and I went to a

I realize that the missed food could have happened with anyone at any time and that the thankless job of taking orders, preparing food and making sure people get what they order isn’t particularly exciting.

Are people not taking responsibility in their jobs? Are they proud of their mistakes? Has customer service become like our appendix, a vestigial organ in our culture?

I’m the type of consumer who would eagerly become more loyal and would recommend services when the people who work at these establishments show me they care, want my business, and can be bothered to provide the products I purchased. Companies, and their staff, should recognize that I’m likely not the only one who enjoys efficient, professional and considerate customer service.

Just to add some excitement to my life, I had Mohs surgery this past week. Of course, it was not my idea. The dermatologist identified a spot on the side of my nose as possibly the beginning of a basal cell carcinoma, scraped it off and sent it for a biopsy. The report came back positive.

The next step in this situation was a visit to a Mohs surgeon, who specializes in removing the unwelcome cells.

So off I went.

Between you and me

BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF

Now typically there are three types of skin cancers: basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma. Mine was a basal, the least of the three and slowest growing. Nonetheless, it had to come off.

An appointment was made for the deed to be done. Now Mohs surgery, used first by Frederic E. Mohs in 1936, is intended

for areas totally visible, like the cheek or nose, where scars would be most undesirable. The skin with the troubled spot is cut away one layer at a time and then studied under a microscope. When a layer is found free of the cancer, the surgeon can stop removal. In that way, no more skin is cut away than is affected, minimizing the healing process and the scarring.

At the initial consult, I was told to come back at 8:30 a.m. last Monday and bring lunch and a book because there was no way to know in advance how deep the basal cells have penetrated and hence, how many layers may have to be removed.

“Plan to spend the whole day here,” the nurse instructed. “Of course you can leave as soon as the skin is cancer free.”

So I dutifully appeared at the appointed time, heart pounding, not knowing exactly what I was in for. For those facing Mohs surgery or will undergo the procedure in the future, here is what’s involved. And by the way, more and more people are developing various skin cancers because the skin is damaged by the sun, older people have had more time to be affected, and there are now more older residents in America than ever before. Thousands

TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA

of baby boomers turn 65 every day.

Mohs surgery can be done in a hospital or a physician’s office. I was in an office. First, the nurse carefully and thoroughly wiped my face with antiseptic to prevent an infection. Pictures were taken to record the exact location of the spot. Then my upper body was draped, and the nurse injected pain killer in several locations on the nose and cheek, which each felt like a sharp but quick pinch.

When I was anesthetized, the physician entered, put on his surgical gloves, and the procedure began as Christmas music played softly in the background. It took less than five minutes to get the specimen for the lab. It takes about an hour for the slide to be inspected, using a special diagnostic machine.

I was then bandaged and sent out to wait. While I was waiting, I studied the others in the waiting room. Some had bandages on their ear or their cheek. One lady had a dressing on her scalp. A man had one on his neck. All were reading.

I also enjoyed the company of my son, who accompanied me throughout this experience, for it gave us an opportunity to chat and catch up on the latest. That was the silver lining.

In less than an hour, the nurse waved me back into the procedure room, and I swooped up my untouched lunch, my book and my coat and anxiously followed her.

“It’s all clear,” she said smiling. “No further cancer.”

“Hot dog!” I exclaimed, thereby giving both the young nurse and youngish doctor a laugh. Apparently, they were not familiar with that enthusiastic expression. I guess the current phrase would have been, “Cool!”

Then the surgeon took a thin slice of skin from elsewhere on my nose, and using this plastic surgery technique, covered the surgical site. The wound was next stitched up and covered with a pressure bandage that was to remain until the next day.

Happily we could leave. The task now is to keep the area clean and manage the ensuing pain until the healing is complete.

Until then, should we cross paths, I hope you won’t confuse me with your neighborhood raccoons. Or think that I was in a bar fight and got punched in the eye.

‘No skin off my nose,’ but there was.