The Times of Smithtown - November 24, 2022

A BEST PLACE TO LIVE. A BEST HOSPITAL TO MATCH.

At Huntington Hospital, we deliver the advanced care you need, right in the town you love. That’s what it takes to be rated one of the best hospitals in the New York metro area by U.S. News & World Report.

From leading-edge robotic surgery to expert cancer care, we’re raising health every day. Because we don’t just want to be the best — we want what’s best for our community, too.

Northwell.edu/RegionsBest

Independent bookstore set to open before new year

BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

A new independent bookstore is set to open on New York Avenue in Huntington Village after one entrepreneur’s yearlong journey to find a location.

Many business owners struggled to keep their doors open during the COVID pandemic even after restrictions were lifted. One of the stores that shut its doors for good during 2021 was the Book Revue in Huntington village.

However, former Book Revue store

manager Mallory Braun, of Huntington, realized the importance of a community bookstore and launched a Kickstarter campaign on Nov. 1, 2021, to raise $250,000. Her hope was to open a new store in the village in the spirit of Book Revue. After 45 days on the crowdfunding platform, more than 2,200 people donated over $255,000.

Opening a new bookstore didn’t happen overnight though.

Braun has spent several months acquiring books and records that were donated and sold to her and stored them at a warehouse. While she waited for the right location, the business owner and employees ran pop-up stores over the last few months in locations such as the Huntington Fall Festival, Nest on Main in Northport, Glen Cove’s Southdown Coffee and more. The pop-ups were fun and successful, she said, and after the new store is open, she would like to do more.

“It allows us to build relationships with local businesses,” Braun said.

Regarding finding the right location, the entrepreneur said she had to find a space that was big enough for the quantity of books she wanted to carry and hold events that she hopes to organize in the future.

She said there were serious talks about a few locations until they found the storefront at 204 New York Ave.

“This one was the one that has worked out, and it was the right choice,” she said, adding that it’s a five-minute walk from the old Book Revue building, in a northerly direction.

A grand opening date has not been chosen yet, but she said the store will open in time for the holiday shopping season. Braun added there is still a lot of work to

be done. The Next Chapter employees are still shelving books and vinyl records at the future store, and Richard Klein, former Book Revue co-owner, has also been helping her prepare for the big day.

Braun, who specializes in used and rare items, is currently ordering new books. She said it would enable her to have authors visit for book signings, something she said customers enjoy.

“I don’t know how long it’s going to take to build up the same type of author as Book Revue had, but it’s important, and we’ve already been working on it,” Braun said.

She added that people have been volunteering to help get the store ready. Anyone interested in helping can reach the store by emailing: info@ thenextchapterli.com.

For more information about The Next Chapter, visit the website www.thenextchapterli.com.

Above, Mallory Braun, right, is set to open a new bookstore in Huntington Village. She was mentored by former Book Revue owner Richard Klein, left. In the last few months, Braun has held pop-up events at businesses such as Nest in Northport, below. Photo above by E. Beth Thomas; photo below from The Next Chapter Facebook page

Let’s dance

A fantastic time was had by all at Smithtown High School East’s annual “Dancing with the Teachers” fundraiser on Nov. 16. Hosted by Smithtown East varsity kickline coaches Sarahbeth Cook and Michele Marciante, who also trained the High School East teachers to sway throughout the night.

Judges Ms. Zeitlin, Ms. Stech and Mr. Lambert had a tough task on their hands as the competition was fierce. In the end, Mrs. Tarburton and Mrs. Cooley took home the top prize.

Great job by MC Mr. Ryan Lynch as well as the Nesaquake and Great Hollow Middle School kickline teams.

The money raised for the fundraiser will help the Whisperettes defray their cost to attend Nationals at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Orlando, Florida. The team has been competing at the Contest of Champions National Dance Team Championships for more than 20 years with great success. They are the reigning 23X Small High Kick Champions. They sincerely appreciate the school community’s support as they look forward to the 2023 Contest of Champions National Championship.

Nesaquake

Let’s dance

Students in Mrs Peppe’s Life Skills class at Nesaquake Middle School hung ribbons and raised money for veterans during their Salute To Service fundraising.

All students and staff were encouraged to wear camouflage

and donate any amount of money to purchase a ribbon, which is displayed on the school walls.

Students will then take the money donated and go shopping for items for veterans at the Northport VA Medical Center.

Smithtown High School East

Photo from Smithtown Central School District

Middle School

Photo from Smithtown Central School District

Student and adult volunteers help clean up Schubert’s Beach

On Saturday, Nov. 5, the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau, Horizons Counseling & Education Center and Youth & Community Alliance had 54 student and parent volunteers, in conjunction with the Parks Department, Public Safety Bay Constables and Park Rangers, clean up harmful waste left along the shoreline of Schubert’s Beach in the town, according to a Smithtown press release.

This initiative was conducted to help bring community awareness as a part of the Youth Bureau, Horizons Counseling & Education Center, and Youth & Community Alliance’s efforts to keep the community safe and clean. This event was initially scheduled for Oct. 1, but was rescheduled. This is the second annual beach clean-up for the group. Last year, volunteers cleaned up Long Beach in Smithtown.

“This was another fantastic turnout from our brightest future leaders within the community,” said Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim. “I’d like to thank the Youth & Community Alliance team, our Parks Department, Public Safety Bay Constables & Park Rangers, and most of all our young student volunteers, who all worked together in this year’s cleanup. These events are vital to encouraging the public to be proactive in keeping our shorelines safe for residents and wildlife alike. I commend the Youth Bureau, Horizons Counseling & Education Center, and Youth & Community

Alliance, student volunteers and their parents for going above and beyond to protect and care for our pristine beaches and wildlife habitat at Schubert’s Beach.”

With the help of Youth Bureau, Horizons Counseling & Education Center, and Youth & Community Alliance personnel, the students collected trash and recorded any evidence of alcohol, tobacco, vape and drug related waste, including a syringe, to help identify the areas where substance use is taking place. The group also collected litter, discarded fishing equipment, and other household items. The New York National Guard Counterdrug Task Force was scheduled to take part in the Oct. 1 event, but they could not make the rescheduled date due to a conflict with their schedule.

“We were lucky enough to have great weather on the day of this rescheduled event,” said Janine Marc-Anthony, Youth Services coordinator, Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau “It was actually a perfect day for a beach cleanup. Alliance student volunteers and a few of their parents were so enthusiastic and happy to be part of this project. It was a very effective beach cleanup; an educational experience about substance use in that location, and a wonderful opportunity for students and families to socialize and enjoy a beautiful morning together.”

To get involved with future Youth Bureau

events, apply to become a volunteer with the Smithtown Youth Bureau Volunteer Corps. Complete and submit the online volunteer

application form, available on the Youth Bureau website. Adults and students are invited to register.

Volunteers at Schubert’s Beach cleaned up garbage that included discarded fishing equipment and household items. Photo from Town of Smithtown

following incidents have been

Pedestrian killed in hit-and-run Suffolk County Police Major Case Unit detectives are investigating a hit-and-run crash that killed a pedestrian in Holbrook. A passing motorist called 911 at approximately 6:45 a.m. on Nov. 20 to report a body on the side of Veterans Memorial Highway at Grundy Avenue. Following an investigation, it was determined the man was crossing eastbound Veterans Memorial Highway when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. The man, Alan Lepre, 59, of Holbrook, was pronounced dead at the scene by a physician assistant from the Office of the Suffolk County Medical Examiner.

Man arrested for making fake 911 calls

On Nov. 21, Suffolk County Police arrested a Coram man who allegedly made multiple false 911 calls over a two-year span. Andrew Welcom made a 911 call on Aug. 18, reporting a woman had been assaulted and any law enforcement officer that attempted to enter a Lake Ronkonkoma home to help her would be shot. Police responded to the location and found no one in the home was in danger and there were no problems at the house. As a result of the incident, the Fourth Precinct Crime Section investigated similar incidents and located four additional 911 calls dating back to November 2020 that could be traced to Welcom. The calls all reported a suspicious person or crime and all were determined to be unfounded. During at least one of the phone calls, Welcom identified himself as a New York City Police officer. Following an investigation, Welcom, 34, was arrested and charged with five counts of Falsely Reporting an Incident and two counts of Criminal Impersonation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers at 631-854-8426.

Woman arrested for leaving child in car

Suffolk County Police arrested a Huntington Station woman on Nov. 19 after she allegedly left her 4-year-old daughter unattended in a vehicle in cold weather. Second Precinct police officers responded to a 911 call regarding a child unattended, restrained in a safety seat in a vehicle in the parking lot of 711 East Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station at approximately 6:45 p.m. The child was alone in the vehicle, a 2021 Toyota, and the engine was not running. Responding officers located the child’s mother, Maricela Avila, and the child was removed from the vehicle. The child was evaluated at the scene. Avila, 31, of Huntington Station, was arrested and charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

Wanted for 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 man who allegedly stole a leaf blower from the driveway of a residence on Old Indian Head Road in Commack on Oct. 13 at approximately 4:45 p.m. The man was driving a red two-door pickup truck with a white tailgate.

Pedestrian killed by motor vehicle

Suffolk County Police Second Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that killed a pedestrian in Huntington Station on Nov. 19. James Beck was walking in the westbound lanes of East Jericho Turnpike at Totten Avenue when he was struck first by a westbound 2009 Honda Sedan driven by Jesus Bonilla and then by a westbound 2008 Saab SUV driven by Jared Cooper at approximately 8:45 p.m. Beck, 57, of Huntington Station, was pronounced dead at the scene by a physician assistant from the Office of the Suffolk County Medical Examiner. Bonilla, 20 and Cooper, 19, both of Commack, were not injured. Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks. Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact the Second Squad at 631-854-8252.

— COMPILED BY HEIDI 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.

The

reported by Suffolk County Police:

Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD

School News

Tears of joy

Great Hollow Middle School math teacher assistant Angela Morgan had a very tearful and happy Friday on Nov. 18.

Morgan was surprised by her students, teachers and faculty with a Thank You party honoring her husband, Sergeant Jonathan Morgan, who is deployed overseas until June 2023. Sergeant Morgan is a Crew Chief for the Blackhawks.

Principal John Scomillio joined the celebration and during his morning announcements said,

“Ms. Morgan, your husband’s bravery, sacrifice and strength do not go unnoticed, and we will always be indebted to you and your family for all that you have sacrificed for our country.”

Scomillio also added that students and staff at Great Hollow will continue to wear red each Friday to show their thankfulness and support to the Morgan family.

To top the morning off, Morgan was able to FaceTime with her husband and show him the celebration.

All Souls announces Lessons & Carols Christmas Concert

All Souls Church will present a Lessons & Carols concert on Saturday, Dec. 3.

The concert will feature Stony Brook University soprano Heidi Schneider and tell the Christmas story in scripture and song. Schneider’s solos will include “Ave Maria,” “Silent Night” and “Away in the Manger.” Local musician Bill Clark and his Brave Trio will also perform “Mary Did You Know” and “What Child Is This.”

All attending will be invited to sing “Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels” as All Souls organist Dan Kinney plays the church’s 1855 Tracker Organ.

The readings will be done by clergy and laypeople from Setauket Methodist, The Stony Brook School, Caroline Church, St. James Episcopal, Messiah Evangelical Lutheran, Stony Brook Community Church, the Three Village Church, Setauket Methodist, Religious Society of Friends in St. James, and All Souls.

There will be a 15-minute intermission and refreshments will be served. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m.

All Souls Church collects food each week to help feed the hungry at the St. Gerard Majella’s food pantry. Bring a can of food to donate if you want to help feed the hungry in our community.

Heidi Schneider, Stony Brook University soprano, will be among those performing at the All Souls holiday event Dec. 3. Photo from All Souls Church

All Souls Church is located at 61 Main Street, Stony Brook. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

MiddleCountryRd.Ste8, againsttheLLCto872 copyofanyprocessserved process.SSNYshallmail designatedforserviceof County.SSNYhasbeen OfficelocatedinSuffolk YorkSSNYon10/19/2022. SecretaryofStateofNew Organizationfiledwiththe F7C-PMHLLC.Articlesof 11516011/106xts

StateofNewYork(SSNY)on filedwiththeSecretaryof SaladiciousLLC.ArtsofOrg.

09/08/2022.Officelocation:SuffolkCounty.SSNY

purpose. 11787.Purpose:Anylawful Smithtown,NewYork, LLC:83AEastMainStreet, copyoftheprocesstothe served.SSNYshallmaila processagainstitmaybe agentoftheLLCuponwhom hasbeendesignatedas

Photo from Smithtown Central School District

Great Hollow Middle School

Postcards commemorate Thanksgiving

BY BEVERLY C. TYLER DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Celebrating Thanksgiving Day as the end of the season of harvest was and still is an important milestone in people’s lives. Diaries, journals and letters provide some of the earliest records of seasonal activity and how people connected with each other to mark occasions. In America, before the telephone became a standard household item, family members and friends stayed in touch through the U.S. Postal Service.

In 1873, a new phenomenon began when the United States Postal Service issued the first penny postcards. During the first six months, they sold 60 million. With the postcard, brevity was essential due to the small space provided. Long descriptive phrases and lengthy expressions of affection, which then were commonly used in letter writing, gave way to short greetings.

The postcard was an easy and pleasant way to send a message. A postcard sent from one town in the

morning or afternoon would usually arrive in a nearby town that afternoon or evening. A postcard sent from another state would not take much longer.

The feasting aspect of Thanksgiving has continued to be an essential part of the holiday and many of the postcards that were sent reflected that theme. In addition, the postcard helped to tie the family members together with those who were absent during the holiday.

As the telephone became more widely used, the postcard became less and less important as a means of daily communications. However, it provided us with a view of the early years of the 20th century that became a permanent record of contacts between family members and friends.

Beverly C. Tyler is a Three Village Historical Society historian and author of books available from the society at 93 North Country Road, Setauket. For more information, call 631-751-3730. or visit www. tvhs.org.

— Postcards from Beverly C. Tyler’s collection

Check in with each other, yourself before approaching holidays, local doctors urge

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

An important gift people can give each other this holiday season is a check-in call or visit.

HEALTH

That’s the advice of area mental health professionals, who say that the holidays in general can be stressful and that several factors, including grieving over the loss of family or friends, fear about ongoing health concerns, and uncertainty and overall anxiety, have created stressors to mental health.

“If you know someone is having a rough time, who will be without a loved one for the holidays, you can call and say, ‘I’m here,’” said Dr. Stacy Eagle, director of Psychiatry at Port Jefferson-based St. Charles Hospital. “Doing something that simple can be really helpful.”

Indeed, area mental health professionals said the health care system in general has been straining to meet the need for patients in a host of ages to provide timely services.

Signs

Dr. Adam Gonzalez, a licensed clinical psychologist, director of Behavioral Health at Stony Brook Medicine and founding director of the Stony Brook University Mind-Body Clinical Research Center at the Renaissance School of Medicine, suggested that people can look for signs among their friends, family members and coworkers.

“Be aware of behavioral and emotional changes like social withdrawal, increased alcohol or drug use, overeating/eating more unhealthy food, difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, difficulty with getting work done” irritability and sadness, Gonzalez explained in an email.

Broadly speaking, Eagle added that people should be aware of any change in normal functioning. An extrovert who is acting withdrawn can provide a clue about a daily struggle.

Solutions

When people notice these kinds of changes in themselves or others, doctors urged a host of responses, depending on the severity of the symptom.

People who are an imminent danger to themselves or to others can call 988, which is a suicide and crisis hotline phone number. They can also call 911 or go to an emergency room, where a psychiatrist can evaluate them and offer help.

Cari Faith Besserman, director in the Division of Community Mental Hygiene Services with the Suffolk County Department of Health, said residents can take classes such as Mental Health First Aid, which teaches laypeople to increase their awareness by recognizing signs of emotional and mental distress, how to respond safely, and educates on symptoms of illness to decrease the stigma and mystery of mental health and various stages of wellness.

Suffolk County residents also can turn to

the Diagnostic Assessment and Stabilization Hub, also known as DASH, program, which provides 24/7 access to behavioral health professionals and provides somewhere to go for those experiencing a crisis. The DASH number is 631-952-3333.

For less severe but problematic or ongoing symptoms, doctors urged some restorative measures.

Eagle suggested getting proper rest, ensuring a sufficient and balanced diet and staying hydrated. Activities such as exercise, which helps increase the release of serotonin, can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

She added that unplugging from social media, especially for adolescents and children, can improve overall mental health.

Gonzalez also urged those who are offering support to remain fully present and nonjudgmental, and listen actively when someone shares concerns or anxieties.

“Be sure to ask what they need from you,” Gonzalez urged. “For some, it may be just listening; for others, it may be advice/ feedback or helping to connect them to professional support services. It’s easy for many to slip into problem-solving mode; however, sometimes others just want to be heard and validated.”

Gonzalez added that group-based treatments are just as effective as individual therapy and

encouraged patients to try skills-based groups to learn coping methods for managing stress, anxiety and depression symptoms.

Stony Brook offers a COVID-19 support group for people who have or have had COVID, especially those with long COVID symptoms.

Stony Brook also offers a comprehensive mind-body treatment program called the Stress Management and Resilience Training program.

The SMART program is helpful for people who are managing co-occurring mental and physical health problems and for those who would like to enhance their overall resilience.

Overwhelming demand

On the whole, hospitals and mental health facilities are struggling to keep up with the need for help.

“Currently, the demand for psychotherapy services is overwhelming,” Gonzalez explained in an email.

Eagle added that the weeks leading up to the holidays have often been a stressful period.

This year, some groups in particular are struggling. Parents of children born in 2022 are especially concerned about respiratory syncytial virus, which is “higher than normal,” Eagle said.

Seasonal affective disorder, which occurs during the darker, colder winter months, also

affects about 0.5 to 3% of the population, Eagle said.

SAD can be harder for people if they have depression or anxiety, Eagle said. “These things are definitely an issue.”

Doctors added that those who are grieving over a loss can find the holidays difficult.

“Grief can be more of an issue” around the holidays, Eagle said.

Eagle urges the continuation of traditions that families found meaningful and helpful.

Gonzalez added that people can cope with grief by keeping a picture of a person who is no longer present close by, offering a prayer in their honor, sharing positive memories, or writing them a note.

Grieving families can also consider starting new traditions that may help them move forward with their lives, Eagle suggested.

Good news

Even amid all the concerns this year, doctors said people can appreciate some good news.

“Happily, we are out of the severe hospitalizations for COVID,” Eagle said.

Communities can also celebrate resilience “as individuals and as a country,” she added.

In hospitals, visitors are able to offer comfort and spend quality time with their friends and family, which is a considerable improvement from the days when patients couldn’t have visitors.

Eagle said she is following her own advice with her friends and family.

She will try to reach out to those she knows have had a particularly bad time this year to “make sure that they are aware that someone is thinking about them,” she said.

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many people, especially for those who lost a loved one recently. Stock photo

‘It’s easy for many to slip into problemsolving mode; however, sometimes others just want to be heard and validated.’

—Dr. Adam Gonzalez

Automobiles/Trucks

Vans/Rec Vehicles

***AAA***AUTOBUYERSHighestCashPaid,AllYears/Conditions,WEVISITYOU,Or Donate,TaxDeduct+Cash. DMVID#1303199.CallLUKE 516-VAN-CARS.516-297-2277

DONATEYOURCARTO BREASTCANCERRECOVERY!TaxDeductionReceipt GivenUponPick-up,FreeTowing.501CCharity.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

21INCHLAWNMOWER 158CCBriggs&Stratton. Runs&Works-NeedsTuneup. $10631-751-2655 (voice,notext)

2ROOMAIRCONDITIONERS 5000BTU,$25each. 631-981-5128.

2ROOMAIRCONDITIONERS 5000BTU,$25each, 631-413-6549.

COMMONBRICK.50/brick Upto130bricks,Specialprice for130631-941-4425.

Finds Under 50

ENTRANCEHALLTALLPIECE. copyofantic,excellentcondition,$49. adhsasvary@optonline.net, 631-751-5390

Housesitting Services

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

Miscellaneous

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

FUJISUPREME26”10SPEED ENGLISHRACERBIKEwith originalownersmanual,good mechanicalcondition,special bikelockincluded,25yearsold, needscleaningoriginally $200++,price$25. Call516-381-7152

SAMSONITELUGGAGE Largenavy(30x20),lightweight New$40. (631)751-4563”

Miscellaneous

DIRECTVFOR$79.99/MOFOR 12MONTHSwithCHOICE Package.Watchyourfavorite livesports,news&entertainmentanywhere.First3months ofHBOMax,Cinemax,Showtime,StarzandEpixincluded! Directvis#1inCustomerSatisfaction(JDPower&Assoc.) Somerestrictionsapply.Call 1-888-534-6918

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

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.

small space

EMPLOYMENT/CAREERS

Help Wanted

PUBLISHER’SEMPLOYMENTNOTICE:Allemploymentadvertisinginthisnewspaperissubjecttosection296 ofthehumanrightslawwhich makesitillegaltoadvertise any preference,limitationordiscriminationbasedonrace,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.

P/TSALES/CUSTOMER SERVICE

Insidepositionsellingadvertisingforanaward-winning communitynewsmediagroup, Faxresumeto631-751-4165or emailresumeto Class@tbrnewspapers.com. Seeourdisplayadformore information.

PARTTIMEVILLAGEDEPUTY

CLERKPOSITION

TheVillageofPoquottisacceptingresumestofilltheparttime positionofDeputyClerk. Flexibledays,10-12hoursper week.Agreatopportunityfor Poquottresidentslookingfora jobthatisconvenientandsupportsthecommunity. Interestedapplicantscane-mail tcioffi@villageofpoquott.com andincluderesumeifavailable PLEASESEEOURDISPLAY ADFORMOREINFORMATION

HIRINGMAILSORTERS

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

SERVICES

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

REACTPESTCONTROLINC. Wasps,YellowJacketsNesting inyourhome!Protectyourhome beforethosepeskynestsare built. SEEDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION.

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

Career Services

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

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.

SETAUKETLANDSCAPE

DESIGN

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

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

Home Repairs/ Construction

LUXDEVELOPMENTGROUP

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

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

Home Repairs/ Construction

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

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

Masonry

CARLBONGIORNO LANDSCAPE/MASON CONTRACTOR

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

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

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

WORTHPAINTING

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

ALLPROPAINTING

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

Satellite TV

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

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

LAROTONDA PAINTING&DESIGN

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

Power Washing

THREEVILLAGEPOWERWASHINGLLC

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

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

RANDALLBROTHERS TREESERVICE

Planting,pruning,removals, stumpgrinding.FreeEstimates. Fullyinsured. LIC#50701-H.631-862-9291

SUNBURSTTREE EXPERTS

Since1974,ourhistoryofcustomersatisfactionissecondto none.Pruning/removals/ planting,planthealthcare. Insect/DiseaseManagement.

ASKABOUTGYPSYMOTH ANDTICKSPRAYS

Bondedemployees.Lic/Ins. #8864HI631-744-1577

REAL ESTATE

PUBLISHERS’NOTICE

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

Wewillnotknowinglyaccept anyadvertisingforrealestate whichisinviolationofthelaw. Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellings advertisedareavailableonanequal opportunitybasis.

LIVEINACOUNTRYCLUB

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

5MINSTOSUNY

Renovated,1Bedroom,newfull bath,2ndFloor,Centralair, granite,SSappliances,Closeto Preserve,Privateoutdoorarea, Nopets/smoking$2550/mo+ Utils516-672-9971

Landlordrequirescreditscore 700+andRefs

PORTJEFFERSONOnebedroom,2ndfloor.Walktovillage. Largelivingroom,largekitchen. Nopets/smoking.$1700includesall.631-374-7855.

OFFICESPACE

Inpsychotherapysuite,Heritage Square,Setauket,Private waitingroom.631-751-4152

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

ad today

Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154

Think big, shop small

After tackling the Black Friday frenzy at local malls and major department stores, the Saturday after Thanksgiving is set aside for our small businesses.

For over a decade, holiday shoppers have taken part in Small Business Saturday, an initiative created by American Express and the nonprofit National Trust for Historic Preservation in the midst of a recession.

The annual event is an excellent opportunity to patronize mom-and-pop stores in our towns and villages. Many of these places provide personal services that consumers can’t find at larger retailers or by shopping online, such as exceptional customer service and wrapping gifts.

When shoppers support a neighborhood store, they are also helping the surrounding community. Many small business owners sponsor local sports teams or events. Those same owners also pay sales taxes to local municipalities, involving dollars going back into nearby public schools, parks, roads and so much more.

The multiplier effect of small businesses creates more jobs in our communities, too. With many mom-and-pops suffering from the aftereffects of pandemic shutdowns, shoppers at local businesses play a part in keeping small brick-andmortar stores open and people employed.

We know with lingering COVID-19 concerns, it can be overwhelming for some to step into a store sometimes. Many have become accustomed to ordering online, but if you can’t get out or don’t want to, many local businesses have websites or social media pages where buyers can purchase goods online.

There are also quiet weekdays to stop by a local store and check out their unique items. Shopping small doesn’t have to be restricted to one day out of the year.

After a long day of shopping, remember small businesses aren’t limited to clothing or gift stores, either. Get a bite to eat or a drink at a restaurant or bar in town. Buy a gift certificate to your favorite Friday night spot for a friend or family member. Or maybe someone waiting at home would appreciate flowers from the local florist. Have a loved one who loves yoga, dancing or self-defense classes? Many schools and gyms offer gift certificates, and it’s an easy way for people to try out a business before committing to it.

Most of all, frequenting small businesses creates a stronger sense of community. The last few years have been difficult for many, and the support of others, especially neighbors, can make a huge difference in someone’s life and livelihood.

It is time that we think about the big picture. If we fail to support our local small businesses, then we will soon be left with vacant storefronts. Blighted downtowns can affect property values and diminish the quality and character of our community.

This Saturday, remember to patronize your local momand-pops. It may seem like a small gesture, but it can make a big difference for our community.

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: rita@tbrnewsmedia.com or mail them to TBR News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733

Letters to the editor

A thank-you note from state Sen. Mattera

It is truly an honor to be able to once again thank the residents of the 2nd Senate District for allowing me to be their representative in the New York State Senate for the next two years. It is overwhelming to have the faith of those in our community and I will work my hardest to make sure their voice is heard in Albany.

I would like to thank my wife Terry and our two daughters, Jessica and Jayme, for their love and support through these past two years and for standing with me throughout this past election. Their backing means more than anything, and I am truly fortunate to have you with me on this journey.

My deepest appreciation as well goes out to all who have supported me throughout this campaign. From the backing of every major labor organization to the support of every police union to those in our community who have expressed their best wishes during these past couple of months, that support has been essential to our victory and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

Now, as we move forward together, I would like to make sure that everyone who lives in the newly formed 2nd Senate District knows that we move forward united to build a better future for all of our families together. That is why I would like to invite everyone who lives in the 2nd Senate District to email me at mattera@nysenate.gov or call my office at 631-361-2154 to provide their thoughts on the issues that matter most to their families. That way, when the new year begins, I can bring the voice of our community to the state Legislature.

The time has come to put politics aside, and I am ready to work on the issues that are important to our hardworking men and women with anyone who would like to ensure that our state’s future is brighter than its past.

Once again, thank you to the residents of the 2nd Senate District for putting their faith in me and I look forward to working hard to fulfill this awesome responsibility.

Mario Mattera New York State Senator, 2nd Senate District St. James

Shop local this holiday season

In these difficult economic times, as a result of inflation, it is especially important to patronize your

neighborhood businesses. Do it not only on annual Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26, but every day of the year.

Small independent businesses are at the mercy of suppliers, especially third-party brokers who control the price they have to pay for merchandise.

I don’t mind occasionally paying a little more to help our local stores survive. The employees go out of their way to help find what I need. Customer service is their motto.

As independent momand-pop stores, they don’t have the bulk-buying purchasing power that Amazon or other large national chain stores have. The owners can’t negotiate lower prices from suppliers. This is why they sometimes charge a little more.

It is worth the price to avoid the crowds and long lines at larger stores in exchange for the convenience and friendly service your neighborhood community store offers.

Remember these people are our neighbors. They continue to work long hours, pay taxes and keep as many staff employed as possible. Many maintain the tradition of offering job opportunities to students during the holidays and summer.

Customers also patronize other commercial establishments on the block. Foot traffic is essential for the survival of any neighborhood commercial district. If we don’t patronize our local community stores and restaurants to shop and eat, they don’t eat either. This helps keep our neighbors employed and the local economy growing.

The owners of independent momand-pop stores are the backbone of our neighborhood commercial districts. Show your support by making a purchase.

Larry Penner Great Neck

New York’s destructive elected leadership

I want to reflect on the New York State governor’s election. Did any Democrat or any other voter stop and actually think about what Gov. Kathy Hochul

[D] actually did for our state? Let me list what she has done to our state.

We have the highest crime rates in our subways, city streets and the state. Looting of stores, releasing of criminals with no bail, and prosecutors and district attorneys refusing to charge criminals. Her gun laws affect only law-abiding citizens. Do you think the criminals are going to stop having guns?

Hochul authorized vaccine mandates, firing police, firemen and nurses, as well as defunding police — also illegal immigrants, some of them criminals, being accepted into our (sanctuary) state. We have the highest taxes, highest gas, heating, oil and food. Teachers teaching sex, racism, boys can be girls and girls can be boys, the list goes on.

U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin [R-NY1] ran for governor actually trying to save our state. But we live in a Democratic state where voters elect people recognizant of their accomplishments and only vote their party affiliations.

Voters reelected U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer [D-NY], who threatened violence against a Supreme Court justice. I guess the voters are OK living in the condition of our state.

Richard Esopa Miller Place

opinions of columnists and letter writers are their own. They do not speak for the newspaper.

The

Investigative suggestions for future Republican house committees

Yes! Republicans have retaken the house. Now, we can really get down to some important, democracy building and unifying investigations. Undoubtedly, these investigations will get to the bottom of some important political questions that people absolutely want answered.

done in two years — with the important questions, I have ideas for investigations that I’d like to lob in as well. They range from the obvious, to the quirky to the frivolous, but, I figured I might as well make my suggestions now.

poised to tear off his jersey many years ago against the Yankees? Is it safe for purist baseball fans to root for him again? Will he be eligible for the Hall of Fame someday?

D. None of the above

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

Hunter Biden is and will be a prime target. How can he not be? If you look at some of the pictures of him that newspapers have found, he looks guilty, and that should be more than enough.

Besides, who doesn’t like a few insightful, incisive and critical First Family questions?

Once they finish — assuming they can get it

I’m going to write it here because you know it’s inevitable. Hillary Clinton. She might be a private citizen now, and she might have run for office six years ago, but she’s got to be responsible for something. Maybe she knocked the nose off the sphinx. Or maybe she tilted the Tower of Pisa. Come on, she’s got to have done something wrong.

I’d like to know why my email fills with stuff I talk about, but don’t type into my computer. Is someone listening? My wife and I might discuss a trip to Bora Bora and then, the next morning, I find an invitation to visit. Is someone listening all the time?

Jose Altuve. The Houston Astros star second baseman, whom baseball fans in other stadiums, particularly Yankee Stadium, love to hate, still seems to be operating under a cloud of suspicion. Did he cheat? Did he have a tattoo that he didn’t want anyone to see when his teammates seemed

Open Water. Did you see the movie? It was incredibly popular. I don’t want to spoil it for you, but, well, I’m going to do it anyway. These two people suffer through endless torment and fear after their boat leaves them behind while they are scuba diving. It’s not a feel good movie. Injured, cold and miserable, they try to fight off sharks — guess who wins that one? Afterward, I overheard someone say, “seriously? I watched those people for two hours for that?”

Jan. 6th. There’s likely to be a committee investigating the committee investigating the riots. Fine. But wouldn’t it throw Democrats, Republicans and conspiracy theorists for a loop if another committee then investigated the committee that investigated the original committee? It’d be like seeing images several times in a combination of mirrors.

Tom Brady. Okay, I know he’s not having

his usual spectacular world-beating season, but the guy is 45 and strong, muscular, athletic 20-year-olds are putting everything they have into throwing him to the ground. How is he still functioning? He’s not playing golf. Did someone replace him with a robot? Has he discovered some magical diet or fountain of youth that makes it possible to compete at such a high level when he’s at such an advanced age? I throw a ball with my son, and it takes me a week for my arm to recover. The world needs to hear his secrets.

Socks. I’m not particular about my socks. White ones that go above my ankle are fine. Most of the time, I buy socks that look like the ones I already own, which makes matching them pretty easy. And yet, somehow, I wind up with an odd sock more often than not. Where is that missing sock? Is someone stealing socks from driers?

Asparagus. I kind of like the taste, but I’d prefer that my pee didn’t smell later. Can’t someone do something about it? It’s the only vegetable that has that effect. Let’s figure out a better-smelling asparagus.

The success of our family Thanksgiving this year hinges on new pies

Here comes my favorite weekend of the year: Thanksgiving. It starts on a Thursday, as all good weekends should. We, the Dunaief Clan, have managed to extend it into three, even four days. We deserve no less. Like many American families, our immediate members are stretched across the entire continent, from the California coast to the middle of Suffolk County on Long Island, and from below the Mason-Dixon Line and the Florida Peninsula to the Gulf of Mexico. They need that much time just to get to Grandma’s house and back.

three generations with mighty hugs. Why, it even takes a good part of that long weekend before all the members of the family finish hugging each other, at which point we sit down to eat. We get back up some hours later, only to regroup for the next meal. We know we are among the fortunate in that regard and give thanks.

Food means so many different things. There are the traditional historic dishes that symbolize the meal eaten by the Pilgrims. But we have added so much more to the basics. And each person has a favorite that tickles them when they look at the offerings on the laden table and know it was prepared especially for them. Food is love, and special foods carry that message.

One of the high points of the weekend follows Thanksgiving dinner, when we are still sitting around the table, digesting sufficiently until we can have dessert, and we tell each other what we are most thankful for that occurred in the past year. In that way, I get to catch up on some of the events in my loved ones’ lives, and they on mine.

two differently-made pumpkin pies taste the same. The result here hangs in the balance until Thursday eve. Keep your fingers crossed for me, as my reputation as the Best Thanksgiving Grandma depends on this important outcome.

BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF

What’s waiting for them when they arrive? Food! All kinds of favorite foods. And love. Lots of love that bridges

It still amazes me to be surrounded by the many members of my tribe. Almost 60 years ago, before I was married, there was just me. Then, three months later, there were the two of us, my husband and I. Now there are children and children-in-law, and their children and eventually, their children-in-law. Together we populate the dining room and fill the house with chatter and laughter.

Speaking of dessert, the pumpkin pies will be an issue this year. For all the Thanksgivings we have celebrated here, 53 to be exact, we have enjoyed the classic finale from Good Steer. Their pies pleased all our taste buds, from my children to my parents, who would join us from the city during those early years. Alas, the Good Steer on Middle Country Road is no more, the family having closed the business.

So, faced with this significant void, I have done some research and have come up with replacements. Whether they will be acceptable remains a sensitive question. I’ve had a number of friends offer suggestions, and I thank them kindly because they understand how important it is to find an alternative source. After all, no

Actually I have a monopoly on the title. Thanksgiving is always celebrated at our house. My in-law children know and accept that arrangement because I trade Thanksgiving for Christmas. That seems to work for everyone in the family.

This year, we have a special event to celebrate. My oldest grandson has asked the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with to marry him, and she has accepted. We will welcome her enthusiastically, and I will give thanks for the blessing of seeing our family continue to grow.

Wishing you all, Dear Readers, a Happy Thanksgiving with the foods you enjoy and the people you love, whether they be relatives or close friends or perhaps those you recently met and have chosen to share this celebratory meal.

On this day, we are reminded that we are all Americans together.

THE #1 KILLER OF KIDS HAS MET ITS FOE A QUESTION

Guns are now the leading cause of death for kids—doesn't kill to ask.

how at Northwell.edu/LockGuns