The Times of Smithtown - December 10, 2020

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TIMES of SMITHTOWN

F O R T S A LO N G A • K I N G S PA R K • S M I T H TO W N • N E S C O N S E T • S T J A M E S • H E A D O F T H E H A R B O R • N I S S E Q U O G U E • H A U P PA U G E • C O M M A C K Vol. 33, No. 42

December 10, 2020

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Residents find lines wrapped around buildings at local urgent care facilities

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Also: Review of Hillbilly Elegy, One on One with celebrity chef Duff Goldman

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Tradition Continues Smithtown Historical Society hosts a socially distanced holiday festival — A13 A Personal Invitation!

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PAGE A2 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

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Residents in the Smithtown Fire District had the opportunity Tuesday to vote for one fire commissioner for a five-year term in each district. Incumbent Padraig O’Brien faced challenger Michael Clarke for that seat and retained it with 304 votes. Clarke garnered 170. O’Brien is a lifelong resident of Smithtown and local businessman who has operated Chemex, the pool and chemical supply store

across from the bull statue, for more than 30 years. He joined the fire department in 1973 and is a member of Rescue Company 9. He has held a seat on the board of commissioners since he was first elected in 2000. Clarke has been a member of the fire department for 29 years and a lieutenant with the Old Brookville Police Department, this was Clarke’s first time running for fire commissioner.

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DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A3

County

SBU Journalism School Dean Addresses Current Challenges BY DANIEL DUNAIEF DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM Journalism is under attack. It’s a sentiment shared by Laura Lindenfeld, the dean of the School of Journalism at Stony Brook University after years of. Efforts to undermine the press “remind me why journalism is so critical to democracy,” she said. “We have our work cut out for us.” Lindenfeld, who came into the position in March this year after serving as interim dean, said she is encouraged by what she sees at the journalism school, where she lauded students for their engagement, motivation and passion. “That gives me an incredible sense of hope about our ability to overcome,” she said. Data from Gallup shows that, as of September this year, trust in media is higher than it was in 2016, but not by a sizable amount. In that survey, 40% said they trust the media a great deal or fair amount. 33% trust the media “none at all.” The difference is most expressed when looking at political party, with only 10% of republicans trusting the media to any real degree, while 73% of Democrats share more trust. Meanwhile, the journalism school has taken several steps to prepare its students for a challenging world. In addition to providing the same kind of ethical training other schools offer, Stony Brook is immersing them in a digital program in which they can tell factually based, compelling stories. The school is also urging students to become part of local communities. Professors encourage students to “listen

SBU J-School Dean Laura Lindenfeld took over in March after serving as interim dean for several months. Previous dean Howard Schneider officially left the position at the end of 2018 to focus on bringing SBU’s news litearcy course to public schools. Photo from SBU

beneath the surface” and to hear stories and gather information “they might not have heard otherwise.” Lindenfeld is a strong believer in the school’s DEI program, which stands for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “We need to be thinking about how important difference is” and how important it is to “listen beyond what we think we are saying,” Lindenfeld said. Additionally, the journalism program at Stony Brook is inextricably intertwined with the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, which the dean used to head up. Named after the famed

TV and movie actor who brought an improvdriven effort to Stony Brook to encourage researchers to share their work and their passion for science with the public, the center also serves as a resource for journalism students. While students at the journalism school aren’t all training to become science journalists, they do have a “unique opportunity to understand and think beyond what they imagined” to appreciate what audiences might be feeling. Journalism students “get a dose of improv” in their education. The school is planning a new class that will start this spring that teaches data and statistics through storytelling, combining the kinds of data that inform economic, demographic, and epidemiological information with an underlying narrative that engages the readers, driving them through the story. Elizabeth Bojsza and Julia Hathaway of the Alan Alda Center are teaching the class. The journalism school has long promoted its news literacy class, which guides students to discern between fact and fiction and addresses how to understand thoughtful, effective, ethical journalistic practices. The class is made available to non-journalism students as well. This spring, the school is also offering a class for graduate students in which scientists engage with journalists. Stony Brook invites journalists to attend, where they practice interviews and get to redo them, enabling them to ask questions in a compelling way. Taught by journalism professor, Pablo Calvi, the class is titled Engaging with Journalists. Lindenfeld said she believes “great story

telling will prevail” in journalism. She also believes that people will pay for editorial products they value. The journalism school also provides its students with an education in business. A year ago, the school hired Sree Sreenivasan, who is the Marshall R. Loeb Visiting professor of Digital Innovation and Audience Engagement. He will help students understand how to build a digital audience. Lindenfeld would also like to see the school add other degree programs. The university is a “knowledge production machine” and has the opportunity to create programs in communication and mass communication that draw on some of the journalistic principles. As for the nuts and bolts of writing, including grammar, word choice and punctuation, The J-school dean said she is committed to great writing. “Rules are there for the sake of clarity, flow and engagement,” she said. Passionate about food culture, Lindenfeld looks at the recipe of the day in the New York Times. She has observed how the cost of ingredients has decreased during the pandemic. Not to mention, people are experiencing a resurgence in home cooking. “I do fear for restaurant culture,” Lindenfeld said. Lindenfeld urges students to listen and hear people from a wide variety of backgrounds, including to those whose ideas or ideologies might conflict with their own. “Hearing involves a willingness to be changed by the other,” Lindenfeld said. She urges students to respect those with whom they are speaking “with dignity.”

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DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A5

2020 Elections

Suffolk Republican Chairman Speaks Democratic Chairman Schaffer Talks Continuing Blue Coalition on 2020 Election and Beyond BY KYLE BARR KYLE@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

BY KYLE BARR KYLE@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Despite the loss of the presidential election, and with just 18 months on the job, Suffolk County Republican Party Chairman Jesse Garcia is instead looking at big local wins. The party held onto longtime Republican state Senate seats previously held by Sen. Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson), who’s retiring this year, and Sen. John Flanagan (R-East Northport), who vacated his seat earlier in 2020. Despite a blue wave in 2018 that saw the GOP hold over the state Senate wane, this year Republican Alexis Weik, of Sayville, defeated state Sen. Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood), making Suffolk County a solid wall of red against a mostly blue Nassau County and New York City. People “responded to our message of taking back New York State from one-party rule, and raised the voices of Long Island in Albany,” Garcia said in a phone interview a few days after the majority of absentee ballots were counted. All races in Suffolk have now been officially called. Garcia came into the position in April 2019 from his previous post as chairman of the Brookhaven Town Republican Committee. The Suffolk post was previously held by John Jay LaValle, who had been ardent in his support for President Donald Trump (R) in 2016. The retirement of multiple high-level Republicans in Suffolk, including LaValle and Flanagan as well as U.S. Rep. Peter King (RNY2), brought a new urgency to this election beyond the politicking of a presidential election year, even if 2020 wasn’t one of the most divisive elections in recent memory. Trump squeaked out a win in Suffolk County by just a little over 200 ballots, with 49.40% of the vote compared to Democrat Joe Biden’s 49.37%. This is compared to 2016 when Trump carried Suffolk by close to 47,000 votes. Still, Garcia praised the county’s steadfast

Rich Schaffer, chairman of the Suffolk County Democratic Committee, said he has long seen Suffolk as “a purple district,” despite Republican wins within the county. This, he said, was made evident by the final polling results that were released at last after weeks of absentee vote counting. President Donald Trump (R) won Suffolk County by just a little over 200 ballots, a far cry from just four years ago when Trump defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton with 46,619 more votes in 2016. Suffolk “is more of a get-even county in terms of both the registration numbers as well as the enthusiasm, so most races are competitive,” Schaffer said during a phone interview postelection. “And that was just proven by the results that came out.” Still, Democrats suffered several defeats for both state offices and for congressional seats. The Republicans also flipped the 3rd state Senatorial District seat held by Sen. Monica Martinez (D-Brentwood). Northport Democrat Michael Marcantonio lost the 12th District Assembly race against Republican Keith Brown by a little over 2,000 votes. Yet there were some victories in there as well. State Sen. Jim Gaughran (D-Northport) held onto his seat against a strong challenge from current Town of Huntington board member Ed Smyth (R). Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), a 28-year member of the Assembly, held out over the long weeks of absentee-vote counting for a 6,825-vote win over Republican Michael Ross. Schaffer said the much greater turnout not just in Suffolk but nationwide also expressed people’s interest in candidates. He said though some candidates have yet to confirm they will be running again in 2022, people such as Laura Ahearn, who ran against Republican Anthony Palumbo for SD1, and Jackie Gordon, who lost her race for Congressional District

Suffolk Republican Committee Chairman Jesse Garcia said the party had big wins in Suffolk despite losses on the federal level. Photo from Suffolk Republicans

support of Republicans. Assemblyman Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) defeated Democrat Laura Ahearn for LaValle’s seat, and St. James Republican Mario Mattera defeated Democrat Mike Siderakis to pick up where Flanagan left off. As for Congress,, U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY1) held an over-36,000 vote lead against Democrat Nancy Goroff by the time all absentee votes were counted. Republican Andrew Garbarino, of Sayville, defeated Democrat Jackie Gordon for King’s seat, though more votes went blue on the Suffolk side of the district. Garcia also cited a victory when voters rejected Suffolk County’s proposition 1, which would have increased the terms of legislators from two years to four, something he called “an incumbency protection program.” Despite Biden’s win on the national stage having been upstaged by Trump’s continued unverified claims that the election was stolen in key states, the campaign has presented little to no evidence of widespread voter fraud — although a Nov. 18 Reuters/Ipsos poll reported nearly half of Republicans nationally say the election was JESSE GARCIA Continued on A12

Rich Schaffer, the Suffolk Democratic chairman, said current polling numbers prove the area is more purple than people realize. Photo from Suffolk Democrats

2 while winning Suffolk, have good shots if they continue their political careers. He added Gordon has an especially good shot if CD2 becomes redistricted to become exclusively Suffolk-based based on census results. Though Biden has already been certified as the winner of the election, Trump supporters and the president himself continue to call the results fraudulent. Schaffer said such a thing is ludicrous. “I mean, I’m the first guy to say, if you can show us widespread fraud, then I’m on board with making sure that it’s not the case,” he said. “But, again, it’s just been this flailing and throwing things against the wall to see what sticks at it.” Schaffer sees Democrats in Suffolk as a kind of coalition that is trying to support suburban values. Republicans, he said, have spent the past year painting their opposing party as such things like anti-police. As Republicans pushed the bail reform bill passed in the 2019 budget as a major part of their campaigns, Schaffer said Democrats in the city hurt their suburban or rural colleagues by not having discussions about it prior to its passing. “The trick for us is to continue to push our RICH SCHAFFER Continued on A12

PAGE A6 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

Obituary

Howard Scarrow, SBU Professor Emeritus and Setauket Resident, Dies at 92 Howard Albert Scarrow died peacefully Dec. 3, surrounded by his loving family at his Setauket home. He was 92. Scarrow was a professor emeritus of Political Science at Stony Brook University. Born and raised in Detroit, he was heavily influenced by his family’s membership in the city’s Central United Methodist Church. The church’s pastor, Henry Hitt Crane, was a seminal influence on young Scarrow. Crane, a pacifist during World Wars I and II, instilled in Scarrow a lifelong respect for those with the courage of their principled convictions, even when those convictions did not align with his own. Scarrow received his B.A. and Ph.D. degrees from Duke University. He began his teaching career at Michigan State University, where he met Rowena Casad at a departmental softball game. They married six weeks later. Scarrow joined SBU in 1963 and was a central figure in the Political Science department from then until his retirement in 2004. His research began with a focus on politics in Canada and Australia, and broadened into inquiries on the methods of comparing political systems generally. Later

he focused on American politics, particularly in New York State, about which he wrote his book “Parties, Elections and Representation in the State of New York.” In addition to his several books, he authored many scholarly articles. He was also a revered teacher of American and comparative politics at both introductory and advanced levels. As a mentor to generations of students, he combined warmth and generosity of spirit with insistence upon the highest academic standards. Scarrow had significant involvement in many aspects of community life in the Three Villages. He was an active member of the Setauket Presbyterian Church, where he anchored the choir’s bass section for more than 50 years. He was a longtime member of the Three Village Tennis Club. He ran community recycling drives in an era before bottle deposit laws and curbside recycling took hold. He was active in the Three Village Civic Association, as well as myriad local political issues and campaigns. Perhaps his most consequential contribution to civic life was his role in the decades-long struggle to elect Brookhaven Town Board members via council districts, replacing the prior at-large system — a switch

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that led to the 2002 breakup of Brookhaven’s one-party rule, and a town government more representative of Brookhaven’s diversity. He

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Howard Scarrow pictured in a family photo. Photo from the Scarrow family

also was one of the initial investors in The Village Times and contributed astute political columns to the newspaper. Scarrow had a passionate interest in classical music, stemming from his lifelong participation in choral singing. He was a frequent, enthusiastic audience member at the Staller Center at SBU, and at the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood Festival, where he volunteered for more than 30 years while in residence at the family’s summer home in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Rowena; his son James and daughter-inlaw Tracy, of Washington, D.C.; daughter Jean, of Newton, Massachusetts; his brother, David Scarrow and wife Janet of Kalamazoo, Michigan; his grandchildren, Christopher, Spencer, Emily and Jackson; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be planned at a later date. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Brennan Center for Justice, the Setauket Presbyterian Church music fund, the Staller Center for the Arts at Stony Brook University, or the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood Festival.

DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A7

County

TandyWear Expands to Make Every Woman Feel Beautiful BY JULIANNE MOSHER JULIANNE@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM A pandemic didn’t stop TandyWear from expanding, in fact, it gave them the push do something great. The upscale clothing boutique located at 89 Commack Road in Commack is celebrating 10 years at its location with a store expansion and launch of its junior’s selection, TandyGirl. Owner Tandy Jeckel began her brand 25 years ago selling woman’s accessories and handbags. Then 10 years ago, she moved to the current brick and mortar store with a goal to dress local women in the trendiest of clothes with a low budget. She said that she began noticing girls shopping alongside their mothers, so Jeckel wanted to cater to them, too, by expanding her inventory and sizes. “Everybody feels like they can shop here,” she said. “They can feel good about themselves, and they can be with their moms.” With inclusive sizing ranging from extra small to 2XL, Jeckel realized that she needed to expand her square footage to meet the demands of a bigger catalog. And while the COVID-19 pandemic was hard on many businesses, Jeckel said she and her store lucked out, taking advantage of masks early on and making them a fashion statement. “That was something that we knew everybody needed, but they wanted to be fashionable,” she said. Jeckel said that next door to her shop, an empty storefront laid vacant for nearly three years. She always wanted that space, she said, and decided in August to make the jump. “Since we were doing really well during the pandemic with the mask sales and curbside pickup, we pivoted,” she said, “We just took something and made it happen.” She had a short amount of time to break down the wall of the former Karate school and reinvent the space. They officially opened the second side the day before Black Friday. With the new side of the store contemporary casual wear for the young and young-at-heart, it also includes a wall of dressing rooms, sparkling chandeliers and a positive message. TandyWear wanted to give back to the community while opening up their new space. This week, a portion of all sales from the weekend of Dec. 11-13 will be donated to the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying. LICAB helps to create bully-free communities across Long Island through education, increased awareness and therapeutic outlets, offering a variety of programs and services such as school assistance programs, care packages, youth leadership programs and subsidized therapy.

Tandy Jeckel, above, stands in the expanded Tandy Wear. Right, a table featuring cards from the anti-bullying campaign that TandyWear is taking part in. Photos by Julianne Mosher

On the counter and inside those fresh dressing rooms, are 5x7 index cards that subtly say that “you’re beautiful,” and encourages girls who are struggling with bullies to reach out — a discrete way for girls to find information. LICAB founder and Executive Director Joe Salamone said that partnering with a store like TandyWear helps get the word out on his organization and gives girls an outlet that will make them feel better if they’re struggling. “Any opportunity that gets us in front of the community who may need us so we can help is great,” he said. “The cards give us the opportunity for kids to get in touch with us in a judgement-free way.” Salamone said the cards were delivered to the store in early November, and Jeckel said the first pile of cards is almost gone. Jeckel said the anti-bullying campaign hits close to home, as her daughter was bullied as a child. “I’m very happy to get involved with the anti-bullying coalition because my daughter

‘Since we were doing really well during the pandemic with the mask sales and curbside pickup, we pivoted.’

—Tandy Jeckel

was bullied in middle school and high school,” she said. “She never really came out and said anything — she just dealt with it and masked it, and she was one of the lucky ones that got through it. But if she had this group, it would have really helped her.” Jeckel said that she knows girls are embarrassed to talk about how they’re feeling, and often hears stories from mothers and their daughters who were also struggling with bullies at school and online. But now with the partnership, she’s already receiving

positive feedback. “Moms are just really happy because they know someone or their child is being bullied, and they didn’t know there was a place that could really go for help,” she said. These anti-bullying materials will be available in store year-round at TandyGirl. “I would like to make a difference,” she said. “I want to make people feel good who are all shapes and sizes. When they look good, they feel good.”

PAGE A8 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

Education

Schools Maintain Low Infection Rate While the Rest of Community Soars

BY JULIANNE MOSHER JULIANNE@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Local school districts are still maintaining low COVID-19 numbers, while the rest of Suffolk County is nearing 6% in some areas. According to district leadership, that’s because schools have been constantly evolving their plans to keep students, staff and the community safe. Middle Country school district covers a large jurisdiction, Dr. Roberta Gerold, superintendent of schools, said. In non-COVID times, there are roughly 11,000 students within the district, though now approximately 7,500 are in buildings due to hybrid and remote learning options. The district has only had 102 positive COVID cases since the start of school, a 1.3% infection rate — with 52 of those cases coming from Thanksgiving break. “We have such strong guidelines we’re containing it, not spreading it,” she said. “We know where [students and staff have] been and who they’ve been with.” Like all the other districts, students are required to wear a mask at all times, except during mask breaks. Social distancing has been implemented with barriers on desks, and teachers are asked to keep their windows and

doors open. If a student is showing symptoms, they are immediately placed into an isolation room and brought home. But that barely happens, according to Gerold. “The community is doing a good job because they’re not sending us positive kids,” she said. “We’re not getting a lot of cases in the schools.” Ronald Masera, president of the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association, said that over the summer, local superintendents began putting together plans to better prepare their districts. “When the pandemic started, there was a feeling of uncertainty,” he said. “But now what we’ve found is we could place a great deal on social distancing.” Because they have been implementing and following CDC guidelines, he said they’re not seeing spread within the schools. “Controlled environment helps keep the community safe,” he said. “Even if we see the community numbers rise, I think the government, politicians, leadership and superintendents know how important keeping schools open is.” A representative from Gov. Andrew

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Cuomo’s (D) office agreed, and said the new guidelines released last month are to keep the doors of local schools open. “We encourage them to not be closed, but to test instead,” they said. Guidelines now require mass testing in schools in red, orange and yellow micro-cluster zones before they reopen, followed by vigilant symptom and exposure screening conducted daily. Impacted schools can reopen as early as Monday, however students and faculty must be able to provide a negative COVID-19 test result prior to going back to the classroom. New York State will provide rapid test kits for schools wishing to participate. After a school reopens in a red or orange microcluster zone, vigilant symptom and exposure screening must be conducted daily. A quarter of the in-person learning school community — both students and faculty/staff — must be tested per week, and the school should ensure that it provides opportunities to test on school grounds, or otherwise facilitates testing and accepts test results from health care providers. If the school does not hold a testing event or provide testing on school grounds, test results provided to the school as part of the 25% testing of the population must be received within seven days. The governor’s representative said that no regions have hit the 9% emergency number, which would close the county again. Schools, however, have flexibility regarding choosing a comfortable closing percentage. “They can use their own metrics to close down districts or schools as long as those metrics don’t go against the state mandate of 9%,” the representative said. “A lot of things are state law governed. Schools are done by the locals, and we wanted to be within the local district rules.” Port Jefferson Superintendent Jessica Schmettan said that they are hopeful to remain on their current course, but are prepared to pivot their instructional models as directed by the governor’s office. “Moving forward, our schools will continue to follow the guidance provided at the local, regional and state levels, including any prescribed steps needed should our area become designed a yellow, orange or red zone,” she said. “We are grateful to our students, staff and community for their unwavering support of and adherence to our initiatives. Their collective efforts have helped to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 within our schools and allowed us to keep our buildings open for inperson instruction.” Marianne Cartisano, superintendent of Miller Place school district, said schools, to date, are the safest places for children to succeed academically, socially and emotionally. “We are also fortunate to have the

acknowledgement of social responsibility in our community, coupled with everyone’s common goal to keep schools open,” she said. The latest number of confirmed and new COVID-19 cases in the Town of Brookhaven, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services on Dec. 7 is 17,307, while a school district like Three Village has seen just a total of 72 positive tests for students and teachers/staff as at Dec. 8. “Our district continues to follow the guidance of the Department of Health Services and the Centers for Disease Control to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” Cheryl Pedisich, Three Village superintendent of schools, said. “We are fully prepared to implement any prescribed measures to keep our schools open, safe and operating in the best interest of all of our students and staff.” Elwood school district Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Bossert said he agrees with statements made by Cuomo and Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, in a recent joint press conference. “Governor Cuomo used the words ‘amazing and astonishing’ to describe how low the infection rates are in schools as compared to many of the communities surrounding them,” Bossert said. “We agree that our schools are safe places for students, faculty and staff. The guidelines that have been put in place in collaboration with the Suffolk County Department of Health are designed to keep students and staff safe and school open.” Bossert said in addition to mask wearing, distancing and appropriate hygiene, it’s important for those who are symptomatic or think they have been exposed to someone positive for COVID-19 to stay home. “We are so very thankful to our parents and community members for demonstrating an understanding of the role we each play and acting out of an abundance of caution when making decisions about their children,” he said. “We are confident that we can keep students safe in our school buildings — where we know they will enjoy the greatest benefit of our instruction program, socialization with one another, and have positive interactions with their teachers.” Smithtown school district superintendent, Mark Secaur, said he is planning for several different scenarios, including the potential of COVID testing in schools, or going back to completely remote. “Based on the relative safety of our students and staff, providing education for those two things has been at odd at times,” he said. “But it’s the balance we have to navigate because of the pandemic.” “We have proven that schools are safer than the outside community,” Secaur added. “Kids have been amazing. They’re excited to be with their friends again, and the kids have been more resilient than some adults.”

DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A9

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Village

WMHO Board Announces Renaming of Village Green During Tree Lighting BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM While the Ward Melville Heritage Organization had to hold its annual Christmas festival and tree lighting virtually this year Dec. 6, a few of the board members and their friends gathered on the Village Green at the Stony Brook Village Center, not just to see the festive lights, but also for an announcement. Richard Rugen, WMHO chairman, said the Village Green in the center would be renamed in honor of Jennie Melville, the mother of philanthropist Ward Melville, founder and planner of Stony Brook Village Center. Rugen said she was the one with the idea to change the then “kind of downat-the-heels Schooner town” into what it is today, including the two-acre Village Green, even though she didn’t live to see it. “It’s been used now for 80 years, much more so this year with COVID,” Rugen said. “People have been able to come down and have a ball game or a card game or a sunset, whatever their little hearts desired.” The WMHO chairman said despite the

Village Green being used more than usual this past year, visitors have been respectful of the grounds. “The trustees and the staff of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization worked very hard to keep it beautiful, and you have cooperated very well,” he said. Rugen said after seeing so many residents enjoying the green, the board of trustees decided to name it the Jennie Melville Village Green, and in the spring, they plan to install a plaque with the new name and some history about both Melville and the open space. Also on hand was Chris Damianos, chairman of the board and CEO of Damianos Realty Group, one of the sponsors of the tree lighting, and his family. The Norway Spruce that was lit to commemorate the holiday season Sunday is dedicated to his mother Virginia, who passed away in 2009. “She was a strong woman,” he said. “This tree has too grown strong, tall and resolute.” He called it a symbol of hope. “Another symbol of hope and joy is Santa,” he said, adding that the man in red was on his way. To the delight of attendees, Santa, who

had just spent a few hours speaking to local children via Zoom in a virtual event organized by WMHO, stopped by to help light the Stony Brook Village Center tree. During the Zoom call with Santa, children were able to request holiday presents. A mailbox has also been set up in front of the Stony Brook Post Office to send him letters this season. In past years, hundreds of residents would line up by the post office to have their children take photos with Santa as part of WMHO’s Holiday Festival, which the pandemic made impossible this year. The past two years the festival also featured the Legends and Spies Puppets Procession led by a New Orleans-style brass band. The puppets paid homage to former notable Three Village residents such as Ward Melville and his wife, Dorothy. This year WMHO continues its Holiday Tree Competition. Throughout the shopping center visitors will find decorated trees. Ballots can be obtained from businesses throughout Stony Brook village, and shoppers can vote for their favorite tree until Dec. 21.

Visitors to the Village Green take a photo in front of the lit spruce. Photo by Rita J. Egan

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County

JESSE GARCIA Continued from A5

Patients line up outside the CityMD Urgent Care in Lake Grove. Facilities have seen more patients than usual in recent weeks due to COVID testing. Photo by Rita J. Egan

Walk-Ins See Rise in COVID Testing BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM Over the last few weeks, a popular conversation among residents is the length of the lines outside CityMD Urgent Care walk-in clinics. With many seeking COVID-19 tests to spend time with family members over the holidays, for upcoming surgeries or to meet college testing requirements, residents over the last few weeks have seen nearly two dozen or more people standing outside of the urgent care offices, in most cases, socially distanced and wearing masks. Several have commented that they have visited CityMD and have waited for hours in line where patients who are not being tested for COVID, but for other illnesses are also waiting. The urgent care doesn’t bifurcate the line into COVIDrelated and non-COVID concerns. One Smithtown woman, who asked not to be named for privacy reasons, said her husband went to one urgent care location for stitches when his hand was bleeding, and he didn’t want to go to a hospital emergency room, not wishing to take away precious time from health care personnel. Once he found out he would have to wait three hours at the urgent care, he wound up going to St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center. On Sunday, Nesconset resident Mary Jo Orr said she waited in line with her daughter who needed a rapid test because she was starting in a new school. She noticed the line wasn’t that long when they got there at a little before 11 a.m. “Apparently, early in the morning one of the workers decided to make a list of the first 100 people,” she said. “They were all given a number and were told to wait in their cars and they would be texted when it was their turn.” However, management squashed the idea and others who didn’t make the list had to stand outside in line. “We were there for 3 1/2 hours,” Orr said. She added that she was prepared to wait, even though she wished the visit went quicker. To deal with the cold weather, she and her daughter took turns waiting in their car. A spokesperson for CityMD said the locations are all walk-ins and do not take appointments, but the company’s goal is to treat as many people as possible. The urgent care centers offer three forms of COVID-19

testing: the rapid test; polymerase chain reaction, most commonly known as PCR test and needs to be sent to a laboratory; and serum antibody IgG blood test. “Demand for COVID-related visits, including testing, remains consistently high,” the spokesperson said. “This is creating long lines at almost all our 130-plus walk-in CityMD Urgent Care centers, so we ask patients to please plan accordingly.” Many have asked why CityMD doesn’t split the line into two or allow patients to wait in cars until they are called into the building. “Wherever possible, our team members walk the lines and triage patients who need to be seen urgently,” the CityMD spokesperson said. “But, there are potential HIPAA issues with asking patients in line to disclose their condition in front of others.” She added that CityMD is “piloting a queue system with hopes of a broad rollout.” “Our goal is to see as many patients as we can in the safest way possible — whether it is for typical urgent care needs or for medical evaluation and a COVID-19 test.” Many community members have said they have gone to Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care centers instead. The locations require an appointment for COVID-testing. Northwell offers both COVID-19 testing and antibody testing. Dr. Betsy Koickel, associate medical director of Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care, said the appointments for COVID-related visits were necessary so the staff could better prepare for such visits. “While we always welcome walk-ins for illness and injury care, we require a spot to be saved for COVID-19 testing in our centers so that we can safely prepare for each patient’s visit,” she said. “During the surge in the need for testing, our teams are working diligently to see all ill and injured patients while also increasing availability for COVID testing.” The doctor said some walk-in patients may have to wait during peak times as staff members are safely preparing rooms. Even though there are no significant lines outside, patients are asked to wear masks while socially distancing or wait in their cars. Others in the community have also recommended CVS Pharmacy locations and Stony Brook University Hospital’s testing. Both require an appointment and require the patient to fill out an assessment.

stolen because of voter fraud. The Republican chairman said changes to this year’s election process due to the pandemic were as a result of Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) “weaponizing a pandemic for his political purposes,” and that the governor used COVID-19 as a way to “scare voters away from the polling places.” Garcia blamed the governor for moving back the dates of primaries, though Republicans only hosted one primary this year, that being for the 2nd Congressional District held in June. The chairman also brought up his share of claims of impropriety in the past election, though he did not cite any specific examples of widespread fraud. He said there was a lack of checking to confirm who people were when requesting an absentee ballot and cited the example of a Water Mill man who was indicted by District Attorney Tim Sini (D) for allegedly requesting two mail-in ballots for his deceased mother. “I know that there are a number of other questionable applications that we hope are under investigation, because that’s what fair and transparent elections

RICH SCHAFFER Continued from A5

agenda out here and make sure people understand that we’re not in lockstep with New York City Democrats,” he said. “The approach needs to be that we’re talking about what it means to the quality of life in the suburbs, and whether or not it’s something that people out here support, as opposed to what the party is advancing.” He said that Long Island Democrats need to join up and form a kind of “suburban working group,” not as a rebuff to the party, but as a way of making their thoughts and voices heard. “Just as the city representatives flex their muscles, the suburban representatives do the same. They need to all stick together,” he said. At the heart of Suffolk Democrats’ woes is trying to create a coalition between the moderate and more progressive ends of the left. Some progressives have expressed their displeasure with the greater party over what they feel is their views being stifled. Schaffer said just like any other part of the party, their views are accounted for, but what’s also required is compromise. He added that

are all about,” he said. Despite their wins, the Republicans still remain a minority in both houses of the state Legislature. Garcia said the Democrats who hold seats in the suburban parts of New York are going to need to “deal with choosing to vote for Long Island taxpayers, against their party and against the governor … or they’re going to join with our delegation to fight for more school aid, the repeal of the catch-and-release bail reform act.” As for the near future, the Suffolk County Republican head is looking forward to 2021. Early next year, the Town of Brookhaven will be holding a special election to replace Councilwoman Valerie Cartright (D-Port Jefferson Station), who is leaving to become a state Supreme Court judge. Garcia said they have been doing interviews for candidates and will be announcing their pick as soon as the town supervisor announces a date for that vote. On the Suffolk side, a large number of seats are coming up for vote once again. Democrats in the county Legislature hold a single-member majority against their GOP counterparts. “We’re going to look to flip the Suffolk County Legislature into the government into the Republican column the first time since 2005,” Garcia said. progressives need to stop demonizing people who don’t fully support their policy positions. “They present their opinions, they can present their views, they can talk about legislation, but they also have to understand that politics is compromise,” he said. “Those that want to say all our views aren’t being listened to, so we’re going to just take our ball and go home, need to rethink that strategy.” For 2021, Schaffer said there are multiple important local races, including a special election for Town of Brookhaven as well as Suffolk Legislature seats. Schaffer said the committee is going forward with Setauket community advocate Jonathan Kornreich as their nominee for Brookhaven Council District 1, as long as nothing changes in the time between now and election. Otherwise, with races such as county Legislators Kara Hahn (D-Setauket) and Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai) up for election this year, it will be about maintaining incumbent seats. “We’re excited about our incumbents — we think they’ve done a good job locally,” he said. “We’re looking forward to put them out there again for reelection.”

DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A13

Town

Historical Society Ushers in the Holiday Season BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM The cold, rain and even COVID were no match for the Smithtown Historical Society’s annual Heritage Country Christmas. Despite changes due to the pandemic, local families still had a chance to welcome the festive season on the society’s grounds. Every year the historical society hosts its holiday festival that includes tours of its historic

homes, live music, carolers, costumed volunteers, crafts, a shadow puppet show in the Frank Brush Barn, raffles and more. In the past, attendees were able to visit at any time and stay as long as they liked. This year, the historical society sold tickets online and limited the hour-long sessions to 50 guests to help ensure social distancing. Also, all activities were held outdoors. Originally planned for Dec. 5, the event had to be postponed to Sunday, Dec. 6, due to the rain Saturday. Families found many of the usual activities including caroling, a winter hayride and a visit with Santa Claus. Helping Santa were elves sent over from the Smithtown Center for Performing Arts who invited children to take photos on a stage decorated for the holidays. Visitors also had the chance to enjoy s’mores over the fire, sip cocoa and watch historic cooking. One guest during the 4 to 5 p.m. timeslot could be heard saying she wanted to thank the historical society for organizing the event because she was looking forward to celebrating the holidays at a community event, even if it meant doing so in the cold. Priya Kapoor, executive director of the historical society, said in an email Monday that the event was a success. “We saw families

Carolers sang holiday songs for visitors, above, and an attendee warms up by the fire, left, at Smithtown Historical Society’s Heritage Country Christmas Dec 6. Photos by Rita J. Egan

enjoying, and kids having fun on the grounds,” she said. Kapoor said the historical society was grateful for all the volunteers, board members, local elected officials and the Suffolk County Police Department for their help.

“Special thanks to Michael Mucciolo from Smithtown Performing Art Center for helping us decorate our grounds,” she said. “We are grateful to our sponsors for always supporting us, and special thanks to PSEG Long Island for energyefficient LED lighting.”

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Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/nypress

102779

Limited Time Offer! Call Today!

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

DENTAL OFFICE FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST for State of the Art Prosthodontic Practice. Part-time 20-25hrs./wk. 2 years experience, Computer Competence: Dentrix Software, Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills. Non-Smoker, references needed. See Display Ad for more info. Call 631-689-5555 HVAC TECHS & INSTALLERS NEEDED IMMEDIATELY F/T, year round, full benefits Flanders Heating and Air conditioning, Call Audrey 631-727-2760 See our display ad for more information

Insurance Policy P150NY 6129

MB17-NM003Ec

Help Wanted OLD FIELD CLUB TENNIS PROFESSIONAL. Looking for an enthusiastic individual w/min 2 yrs. exp, USPTA Certification, coaching exp./college play. Must be available 5/1/21 to 9/30/21. See Display Ad for more Info. WANTED P/T COURT CLERK Tuesday & Thursday 9:00am-2:00pm St James-Village of Head of the Harbor. Send resume & salary requirements to vhohhr@gmail.com See our display ad for more information. WANTED PT/FT LABORATORY AIDE private medical laboratory in Riverhead. To work with biopsies and chemicals and has knowledge with computers. Call 631-591-1086 or email: pathrecruiter@gmail.com

Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 HVAC TECHS & INSTALLERS NEEDED IMMEDIATELY!

FULL TIME ƔYEAR ROUND Ɣ FULL BENEFITS For Senior Installers & Sr. Service Techs Signing Bonus! w/ 5yrs Experience.

$3,000

$1,000

Signing Bonus! 5KPEG

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

For Junior Installers & Jr. Service Techs w/ 2yrs Experience. Interested?

CALL AUDREY TODAY!

(631) 727-2760

www.FlandersHVAC.com/Careers

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©105752

PT CLEANER to perform janitorial duties. 2-5 years experience needed. Mon-Fri 3-6 hrs daily. Contact Mr. Barge at tbarge49@gmail.com. See Display Ad for more information.

www.dental50plus.com/nypress

107861

PUBLISHER’S EMPLOYMENT NOTICE: All employment advertising in this newspaper is subject to section 296 of the human rights law which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, disability, marital status, sex, age or arrest conviction record or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Title 29, U.S. Code Chap 630, excludes the Federal Gov’t. from the age discrimination provisions. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for employment which is in violation of the law. Our readers are informed that employment offerings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Help Wanted

Visit us online at

Don’t wait! Call now and we’ll rush you a FREE Information Kit with all the details.

E M PL OY M E N T / C A R E E R S $18.50 NYC, $16 L.I. & up to $13.50 Upstate NY! If you need care from your relative, friend or neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as a personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA Program. No Certificates needed. Phone: 347-713-3553 ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER for busy auto repair shop, immediate, permanent position, competitive salary and benefits, Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm work week; p/t or f/t hours available for right candidate; no weekends, Mike’s Mechanic Service Inc 631-241-6031, mdbiggers@aol.com SEE OUR DISPLAY AD FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION. METICULOUS PERSON NEEDED for 3 nights/wk for 3-4 weeks to help with disabled young man. Stony Brook area. $16/hr. 631-246-9379

1-855-225-1434

You can get coverage before your next checkup

PAGE A16 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

E M PL OY M E N T / C A R E E R S

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needed to perform janitorial duties in a building or facility. Applicant must have 2-5 years cleaning experience. Must be available Mon.-Fri. for 3-6 hrs/day. Pay rate is $16-$19/hr.

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We are seeking an enthusiastic individual with a passion for the sport who has demonstrated the ability to promote the game of tennis, develop and participate in tennis programs and knows how to plan events for adults and juniors. This Head Pro position will be responsible for supervising adult and junior tournaments, providing lessons, managing court reservations, enforcing club rules and regulations, and supervising special tennis functions. Qualifications: Minimum 2 years experience as a tennis pro or in a similar role. Certification as a Professional by U.S. Professional Tennis Association required. College tennis playing or coaching experience is a plus. Must be available May 1, 2021 through September 2021. How to apply: Please email your cover letter and resume to Kelly Mason at kamason19@aol.com  Relocation Costs and Housing Assistance Not Provided

WANTED – P/T COURT CLERK

WA N T E D

Part-Time/Full-Time Laboratory Aide for private medical laboratory in Riverhead to work with biopsies and chemicals and has knowledge of computers.

Responsibilities will include maintenance of records and general clerical duties as Court Clerk. Qualifications include excellent verbal and written communication skills and exceptional customer service. Ability to type +35 WPM and general computer knowledge is required. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail are essential; must be able to prioritize and multitask. Vehicle and Traffic Court experience preferred but will train.

Email rĂŠsumĂŠs & salary requirements to vhohhr@gmail.com

ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER For Busy Auto Repair Shop

Ideal Candidate Will Have Experience In: • 5+ years Customer Service (Required) • Multi-Line Phone System, Appointment Scheduling, Reception, Billing, and Payment Processing • Basic Computer Skills, Filing, and Check Writing • Use of Auto Repair Terminology (Big Plus), but Willingness to Learn Acceptable Looking for Mature, Welcoming, Energetic Person Who Is: • Reliable, Punctual and Accurate • Positive w/Excellent Interpersonal Skills • Effective Communicator and Organized • Multitasker and Detail Oriented We Offer: IMMEDIATE, Permanent Position Competitive Salary and Benefits Mon - Fri, 8 am - 5 pm work week; P/T OR F/T Hours Available For Right Candidate; NO Weekends

MIKE’S MECHANICS SERVICE INC.

A Leader in Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair for 40 Years Specializing in Honda, Toyota & Subaru Family Owned and Operated PORT JEFFERSON STATION, NY

Call/Text or Email to Apply 631.241.6031 mdbiggers@aol.com

Š108517

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Dental Office Front Desk Receptionist

Š108441

State of the art, fee for service Prosthodontic Practice seeks intelligent and committed individual to join our staff as a Part-time Front Desk Receptionist for 20-25 hrs./wk. If employment in a respectful patient-centered dental office is what you are looking for, we look forward to meeting you. Required Qualifications • 2 yrs experience in dental office • Computer competence: Dentrix Software • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Strong interpersonal skills to maintain positive and effective rapport with patients, their families, referring Dental and Medical professionals, as well as our office staff. • Ability to prioritize a busy day, while placing our patients’ needs first. References needed • Non-smoker

Suffolk County established caterer (35+ years) with clients from Montauk to Manhattan. Immediate opening for culinary professional with minimum 6 years off-premises catering experience. Will be responsible for maintaining menu & brand identity, ensure food is prepared properly, aesthetically pleasing, and manage kitchen operations and staff (under 10). Collaborate with management on inventory, budget, and food presentation. New American cuisine. Plant-based, Latin & Asian a plus. Responsibilities include: Purchase food & supplies from vendors approved by the company; monitor & track inventory (minimize waste, ensure quality & freshness); develop menus & create new dishes seasonally; hire, train & supervise kitchen personnel; stay current on industry trends; identify new culinary techniques & presentations; assist kitchen staff with food prep; strong knowledge of food handling health code regulations; provide direction & supervision to kitchen staff. Weekly hours vary from 40-60 hours to include Saturday & some Sunday events. Compensation negotiable.

Call 631.689.5555

Call 631-334-3263 • juliannabudd23@gmail.com

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St. James-Village Head of the Harbor Tuesday & Thursday 9 am - 2 pm Evening Court Session 3rd Thurs/month

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DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A17

SERV ICES Cesspool Services MR SEWERMAN CESSPOOL SERVICE All types of cesspool servicing, all work guaranteed, family owned and operated since 1985, 631-924-7502. Licensed and Insured.

Clean-Ups LET STEVE DO IT Clean-ups, yards, basements, whole house, painting, tree work, local moving and anything else. Totally overwhelmed? Call Steve @ 631-745-2598, leave message.

Decks DECKS ONLY BUILDERS & DESIGNERS Of Outdoor Living By Northern Construction of LI. Decks, Patios/Hardscapes, Pergolas, Outdoor Kitchens and Lighting. Since 1995. Lic/Ins. 3rd Party Financing Available. 105 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-651-8478. www.DecksOnly.com

Electricians SOUNDVIEW ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING Prompt* Reliable* Professional. Residential/Commercial, Free Estimates. Ins/Lic#57478-ME. Owner Operator, 631-828-4675 See our Display Ad in the Home Services Directory

Fences SMITHPOINT FENCE. DEER PROBLEM? WE CAN HELP! Wood, PVC, Chain Link, Stockade. Free estimates. Now offering 12 month interest free financing. Commercial/Residential. 70 Jayne Blvd., PJS. Lic.37690-H/Ins. 631-743-9797 www.smithpointfence.com.

Floor Services/Sales FINE SANDING & REFINISHING Wood Floor Installations Craig Aliperti, Wood Floors LLC. All work done by owner. 28 years experience. Lic.#47595-H/Insured. 631-875-5856

Furniture/Restoration/ Repairs REFINISHING & RESTORATION Antiques restored, repairing recane, reupholstery, touch-ups kitchen, front doors, 40 yrs exp, SAVE$$$, free estimates. Vincent Alfano 631-707-1228

Gutters/Leaders GREG TRINKLE PAINTING & GUTTER CLEANING Powerwashing, window washing, staining. Neat, reliable, 25 years experience. Free Estimates. Lic/Ins.#31398-H. 631-331-0976

Heating/Cooling HEATING SPECIALIST FOR ALL HEATING SERVICES Installations and repairs for Boilers, Oil tanks and Hot Water Heaters. 10 years of excellent experience. See Display Ad for more info. Call 631-704-0218

Home Improvement ALL PHASES OF HOME IMPROVEMENT From attic to your basement, RCJ Construction www.rcjconstruction.com commercial/residential, lic/ins 631-580-4518. LAMPS FIXED, $65. In Home Service!! Handy Howard. My cell 646-996-7628

Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 Home Improvement BLUSTAR CONSTRUCTION The North Shore’s Most Trusted Renovation Experts. 631-751-0751 We love small jobs too! Suffolk Lic. #48714-H, Ins. See Our Display Ad THE SIDING SPECIALISTSWINTER SALE GOING ON NOW siding, trim work, windows, repairs, gutters, leaders, capping V&P Siding & Window Corp 631-321-4005 Lic/Ins Lic# 27369-HI

Home Repairs/ Construction URBAN VILLAGE CONTRACTING, INC Roofing, windows, entry doors, siding, masonry, foundation waterproofing, free estimates since 1998, 631-484-8161. See our Display Ad for more information.

Lawn & Landscaping SETAUKET LANDSCAPE DESIGN Stone Driveways/Walkways, Walls/Stairs/Patios/Masonry, Brickwork/Repairs Land Clearing/Drainage,Grading/ Excavating. Plantings/Mulch, Rain Gardens. Steve Antos, 631-689-6082 setauketlandscape.com Serving Three Villages LG LANDSCAPING Full Service Property Maintenance. Fall Clean Ups, Gutter Cleaning, Pruning, Tree Services, Plantings, Mulch, Powerwashing and much more. See our Display Ad for Info. 631-365-5853 or 631-480-3762.

Lawn & Landscaping SWAN COVE LANDSCAPING Lawn Maintenance, Clean-ups, Shrub/Tree Pruning, Removals. Landscape Design/Installation, Ponds/Waterfalls, Stone Walls. Firewood. Free estimates. Lic/Ins.631-689-8089

Landscape Materials SCREENED TOP SOIL Mulch, compost, decorative and driveway stone, concrete pavers, sand/block/portland. Fertilizer and seed. JOS. M. TROFFA MATERIALS CORP. 631-928-4665, www.troffa.com

Masonry CARL BONGIORNO LANDSCAPE/MASON CONTRACTOR All phases Masonry Work:Stone Walls, Patios, Poolscapes. All phases of Landscaping Design. Theme Gardens. Residential & Commercial. Lic/Ins. 631-928-2110

Miscellaneous DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-888-609-9405 GET DIRECTV! ONLY $35/month! 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies on Demand. (w/SELECT All Included Package). PLUS Stream on Up to FIVE Screens Simultaneously at No Additional Cost. Call DIRECTV, 1-888-534-6918

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper ALL PRO PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR Power Washing, Staining, Wallpaper Removal. Free estimates. Lic/Ins #19604HI 631-696-8150. Nick BOB’S PAINTING SERVICE 25 Years Experience. Interior/Exterior Painting, Spackling, Staining, Wallpaper Removal, Staining and Deck Restoration Power Washing. Free Estimates. Lic/Ins. #17981. 631-744-8859 COUNTY-WIDE PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR Painting/Staining. Quality workmanship. Living and Serving Three Village Area for over 30 years. Lic#37153-H. 631-751-8280

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Buy 4 weeks and get the 5th week

FREE

Single size • $228/4 weeks Double size • $296/4 weeks Ask about our 13 & 26 week special rates

(631) 751.7663 or (631) 331.1154

ALWAYS BUYING • Glassware • Military Items • China • Anything Old or Unusual

• Old Mirrors • Lamps • Clocks • Watches • Furniture LICENSED & BONDED

Call 631-633-9108

Š108135

EXTERIOR CLEANING SPECIALISTS Roof cleaning, pressure washing/softwashing, deck restorations, gutter maintenance. Squeaky Clean Property Solutions 631-387-2156 www.SqueakyCleanli.com POWERWASHING PETE Sanitize your home professionally- house, deck, fence, roof, driveway, pavers and outdoor furniture. $50 off any job! Free Estimates. Call 631-240-3313. Powerwashpete.com. See Display Ad for more Info.

Tree Work

JAY A. SPILLMANN PAINTING CO. Over 35 years in business. Spackling/Taping, Wallpaper removal. Quality prep work. Interior/Exterior. Lic. #17856-H/Ins. 631-331-3712, 631-525-2206

ARBOR-VISTA TREE CARE A COMPLETE TREE CARE SERVICE devoted to the care of trees. Maintenance pruning, water-view work, sun-trimming, elevating, pool areas, storm thinning, large tree removal, stump grinding. Wood chips. Lic#18902HI. Free estimates. 631-246-5377

LaROTONDA PAINTING & DESIGN Interior/exterior, sheetrock repairs, taping/spackling, wallpaper removal, Faux, decorative finishings. Free estimates. Lic.#53278-H/Ins. Ross LaRotonda 631-689-5998

RANDALL BROTHERS TREE SERVICE Planting, pruning, removals, stump grinding. Free Estimates. Fully insured. LIC# 50701-H. 631-862-9291

WORTH PAINTING “PAINTING WITH PRIDE� Interiors/exteriors. Staining & deck restoration, power-washing, wallpaper removal, sheetrocktape/spackling, carpentry/trimwork. Lead paint certified. References. Free estimates. Lic./Ins. SINCE 1989 Ryan Southworth. See Display Ad. 631-331-5556

SUNBURST TREE EXPERTS Since 1974, our history of customer satisfaction is second to none. Pruning/removals/planting, plant health care. Insect/ Disease Management. ASK ABOUT GYPSY MOTH AND TICK SPRAYS Bonded employees. Lic/Ins. #8864HI 631-744-1577

PROF E S SION A L & B U SI N E S S Place Your Ad in the

Power Washing

Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE P

Blues Man Piano Tuning Brad Merila Certified Piano Technician 6 Barnwell Lane, Stony Brook

631.681.9723

bluesmanpianotuning@gmail.com bluesmanpianotuning.com Š108286

PAGE A18 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

AUTOMOTI V E SERV ICES

UNWANTED CARS

Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Domestic/Foreign Highest prices paid for fixable vehicles. Also buy motorcycles and muscle cars.

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JUNK CARS BOUGHT

All Trucks, Cars & Vans

Lic. # 7112911/Ins.

(631) 445-1848

CALL US LAST WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE LICENSED • BONDED INSURED

631.500.1015

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HOME SERV ICES

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• Roofing • Windows/Entry Doors • Siding Since 1998

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Give Your Furniture A Facelift the Holiday Outdoor Furniture • Sand Blastingfor • Powder Coating

631.707.1228

343 343 So. So. Country Country Rd., Rd., Brookhaven Brookhaven

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PICK-UP PICK-UP && DELIVERY DELIVERY

••Kitchen KitchenCabinet Cabinet Refi Refinishing nishing ••Upholstery Upholstery ••Table Table Pads Pads •• Water Water &&Fire Fire Damage Damage Restoration Restoration ••Insurance Licensed/Insured InsuranceEstimates Estimates Licensed/Insured

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DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A19

HOME SERV ICES

Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE B

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POWER WASHING

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“We take pride in our work�

FREE ESTIMATES

Ryan Southworth 631-331-5556

Licensed/Insured

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#37074-H; RI 18499-10-34230

CERTIFIED LEAD PAINT REMOVAL

Since 1989

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Call Today Š (631) 751-7663 or (631) 331-1154 FAX (631) 751-8592

• Interiors • Exteriors • Cabinet Refinishing, Staining & Painting • Faux Finishes • Power Washing • Wallpaper Removal • Tape & Spackling • Staining & Deck Restoration BBB A1 Rating #1 Recommendation on BBB website

PAGE A20 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

HOME SERV ICES

Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE A

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R E A L ESTATE PUBLISHERS’ NOTICE All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.� We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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PAGE A22 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

Editorial Letters to the Editor Dear Newly Elected Officials Every year we sit down with local candidates for our preelection political debates in the TBR News Media office. This year, of course, those debates were held via Zoom. Despite the new format this year, one thing didn’t change — the first thing we do is thank each of the candidates for taking on the responsibility for running for office. We recognize being a public official is no easy task and running for office is just as difficult. All candidates deserve an extra round of applause for their patience regarding the counting of mail-in ballots. After Election Day, as we reached out to the various candidates in our coverage area, those who were behind after in-person voting remained patient, and those who were ahead were humble. Most who were ahead didn’t claim victory as they understood the importance of making sure every ballot was counted, and they acknowledged every single vote mattered. After a few long weeks, we would like to congratulate U.S. Reps Lee Zeldin (R-NY1) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY3); state Assemblymen Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), Mike Fitzpatrick (R-St. James), Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills); and state Sen. Jim Gaughran (D-Northport) for regaining their seats. We also welcome newcomers, state Sen.-elect Mario Mattera (R-St. James) and state Assemblyman-elect Keith Brown (R-Northport) to the world of legislation, as well as Sen.-elect Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) and Assemblywoman-elect Jodi Giglio (R-Riverhead) to their new roles. Now that the votes are counted, it’s time to get back to business. We urge each of our elected officials to take the next few weeks to carefully assess what is going on in their districts, so after they are sworn in come January, they can hit the ground running. It’s no secret that the coronavirus has wreaked havoc on our local businesses. Those in Albany and Washington, D.C., need to get them the funds they need to keep their doors open and their employees on the payroll. If the funds aren’t available, those in government need to work together to come up with creative ideas to keep these businesses afloat while ensuring public health safety. Elected officials also have to look deeper as to how hard the pandemic has hurt their constituents financially. The loss of jobs and pay cuts have left many unable to make their mortgage and rent payments or keep their refrigerators full. Conversations with residents may provide vital information about what is truly happening within districts. While New York is one of the fortunate states to have strong leadership during the pandemic, there is still a lot of work to do. And while we can hope for federal aid, we can’t count on it, as all of the states are going through the same struggle as New Yorkers are. We need to come up with new ideas to help keep Long Island strong. Looking beyond the coronavirus, there is one thing that comes up every year during our debates. How are we going to make the Island more affordable in order to keep both our young people and retirees here, but at the same time, not overdevelop our valuable open spaces? It’s time to stop talking about it and start doing something about it. A closer eye needs to be kept on developers who promise affordable housing but are completely out of touch regarding what wage earners can actually afford. What’s the sense of building affordable housing in precious open space if the housing is out of reach financially for most residents? Most of all, we ask our leaders in government to work together, to extend their hands across the aisles. We have seen what divisiveness in the United States has done to our country over the last decade — let’s see people come together against partisanship, now more than ever. We have one thing in common besides our humanity. Both sides of the aisle are Americans.

Operation Christmas Child There is so much about Christmas that is commercialized, but the Christmas season stimulates the spirit of giving more than at any other time of year. There is within people an innate generosity to help others, those who are less fortunate or going through a difficult time. That is especially true this year with people giving to local charities, food banks or helping family members going through economic or physical difficulties. Church on the Sound in Stony Brook is the Suffolk County Collection Center for Operation Christmas Child, an outreach of Samaritan’s Purse, which is under Franklin Graham’s ministries. Shoeboxes filled with essential items, such as soap, toothbrushes, combs, brushes, school supplies, crayons

and small toys are packed and sent overseas to economically depressed or war-torn countries. These boxes are sent to give children who might never have received a gift, not only joy in receiving, but to share with them the love of God and the hope found in Jesus Christ. A love and hope which can with remain with them all year long. While the items in the box might seem inconsequential to children in America, they are much appreciated by children to whom running water and electricity are uncommon luxuries. Church groups, schools, organizations and individuals, from Hampton Bays to Huntington pack bright red and green shoeboxes with the items which are dropped off at Church on the Sound the week before

Thanksgiving. Volunteers then pack the boxes into cartons then loaded onto 18 wheelers and brought to Baltimore, one of the eight regional processing centers in the United States. This year over 17,900 boxes were donated in Suffolk. The first shoeboxes were collected in 1993 to aid children in the Balkans after the Bosnian War. Since then, Operation Christmas Child has delivered more than 178 million boxes to children in over 150 countries. Samaritan’s Purse also helps people throughout the year by providing physical and spiritual aid to victims of war, natural disasters, disease and famine. Rosanna Walther Shoreham

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

DECEMBER 10, 2020 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • PAGE A23

Opinion

A Birthday Trip to the Zoo Remains On the Menu

M

y wife wanted to get out of the house and move beyond the daily walk in our neighborhood for her birthday. We decided to take our teenage children to the zoo. Back when our son and daughter were younger, a trip to the zoo was a cause for celebration, as they got to see animals from all over the world, watch various shows, spend about four seconds reading D. None an interesting fact about their favorite of the above creature, and BY DANIEL DUNAIEF continue to hop, skip and jump from one exhibit to the next.

These days, their thumbs do most of the hopping, skipping and jumping. Given the importance of birthdays in our house and the willingness to do whatever the birthday celebrant desires, our teenagers gamely climbed into the car. As with most zoos this year, we had to preregister for tickets. Indeed, the Bronx Zoo requires visitors to use a date-specific ticket. The experience of entering the zoo was remarkably quick and smooth, saving us the customary wait. Zoos require guests to remain socially distanced and to wear masks. All but about eight of the other visitors we saw wore masks. Most of the time, other guests also maintained social distancing, taking their turns to the glass to look at gorillas and apes, who didn’t seem at all curious about the appearance of people whose lips and noses disappeared behind masks. While we circumnavigated the walking trail, all four of us reveled in the appearance

of numerous animals, including an enormous bison and a swaying elephant. It seemed slightly unfair to the ostrich, who is over nine feet tall and is the largest bird in the world, to share a pen with the 20foot giraffe, which dwarfs a bird that also has the largest eye of any bird in the world. Something about seeing all these animals, including a lemur resting in a tree, an arctic fox and a pair of lions, restored a sense of normalcy in an abnormal year. It was also comforting to hear the excitement from other people who all expressed similar sentiments in several languages when the giraffe started to run. On our first trip out around the zoo, we stopped at three bear exhibits in which the celebrated occupants were either not there or hidden. Once we had circled the zoo and headed back towards the car, my wife played her birthday privilege, urging us to take one more look at the black bear, the grizzly bear, and the polar bear.

The first two bears remained out of view on our way back to the car. Standing alone along the railing at almost exactly 4 p.m., which was closing time, we saw the polar bear slowly emerge, then retreat, then emerge from a darkened den. We suspected he might have a keen sense of time and know when it as safe to come out and avoid larger crowds. He or she (we didn’t read anything about the bear’s gender) played with a toy that looked like the top of a garbage can and then reached up to a ledge to pull down a bone with some meat on it. After giving us an eightminute private show, the polar bear took his bone and, as if on cue, exited stage right. While the zoo might not be at the top of your list or top of mind, particularly during the winter, it offers a pleasant chance to get away from our own 2020 pens. The Bronx Zoo has a know before you go page, which you can see by searching Know Before You Go — Bronx Zoo, with details about visiting this year.

Take That, You Lowly Sour Cream Potato Chip!

F

irst is the problem, then comes a solution. When I was in the supermarket this past weekend, in addition to the bok choy and grapefruit in my basket, I threw in a bag of pretzels and one of sourcream-and-chives potato chips. At the checkout aisle, I was surprised to find them there since I don’t tend to buy such snack foods, although I will eat them if offered a handful by a Between generous soul. I hesitated but I did you and me not put them back. BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF Somehow, after all the lockdown and stress caused by COVID-19, I felt entitled to them. Besides, they were small bags. I took them home and scarfed them down over the next couple of

days with only the tiniest twinge of guilt. Sound familiar? An article in Tuesday’s The New York Times spoke directly to me. “Pandemic Begets Weight Gain and Stress,” by Anahad O’Connor, informed me that I was not alone in my aberrant behavior. “The coronavirus pandemic and resulting lockdowns led to big changes in health behaviors, prompting people to cut back on physical activity and eat more junk foods,” the article said, confirming that I was just one of the crowd. A global study, published in the scientific journal Obesity and carried out by members of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Louisiana, surveyed some 8,000 adults from 50 countries and every state in the U.S. The researchers found that, “the decline in healthy behaviors during the pandemic and widespread lockdowns was fairly common regardless of geography.” Even if everyone is well in our family, our eating habits have worsened, our exercise routines have largely declined, our social contacts have diminished as we have become

TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA We welcome letters, photographs, comments and story ideas. Send your items to P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733 or email rita@tbrnewsmedia.com. Times Beacon Record Newspapers are published every Thursday. Subscription $49/year • 631-751-7744 www.tbrnewsmedia.com • Contents copyright 2020

cut off from friends and family, and for some, there has been a frightening economic crisis as jobs have been lost or diminished. All of that has been as a result of the huge disruption in our daily lives by the virus. About 27% of those surveyed said they had gained weight. And there is more. Anxiety levels have risen dramatically, logically out of fear of contagion or job loss. Even TUMS, and other common remedies for heartburn, are scarce in drugstores. Because people are anxious, they may have trouble sleeping, which in turn can result is less energy to exercise and more urge to eat junk food and then gain weight in an ongoing downward cycle. About 44% or almost half of the people in the survey said they had trouble sleeping. There is a thin silver lining, it should be said. Probably those who managed to increase their activity level, 17% of those surveyed reported weight loss. With home cooking and focus on healthier foods, like fruits and less fried dishes, many did show an increase in their “healthy eating scores,” according to the article. Others are discovering new ingredients and are looking

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Leah S. Dunaief GENERAL MANAGER Johness Kuisel MANAGING EDITOR Kyle Barr EDITOR Rita J. Egan

LEISURE EDITOR Heidi Sutton EDITORIAL Julianne Mosher ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kathleen Gobos

for ways to make healthier food, according to The Times. So what to do? Recognizing the problem is always the first step toward correction. Dr. Emily Flanagan, the author of the study, “hoped the findings might inspire people to take steps to be more proactive about their health, such as seeking out mental health specialists, prioritizing sleep and finding ways to exercise at home and cook more, in the event of future lockdowns.” Conveniently, at the top of the same page of the newspaper, there was an article headed, “Exercise 11 Minutes a Day for a Longer Life.” Again based on a study, its data offered the conclusion that such a daily regimen may ease the effects of sitting for prolonged periods of time, something we are forced by colder weather, and especially the virus, into doing. “Multiple past epidemiological studies show links between sitting and mortality. In general, in these studies, couch bound people are far more likely to die prematurely than active people are.” So there you are. Whenever the urge to eat some junk food presents itself, instead let’s get up and move it, move it.

ART AND PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Beth Heller Mason INTERNET STRATEGY DIRECTOR Rob Alfano CLASSIFIEDS DIRECTOR Sheila Murray

BUSINESS MANAGER Sandi Gross CREDIT MANAGER Diane Wattecamps CIRCULATION MANAGER Courtney Biondo SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Sheila Murray

PAGE A24 • TIMES OF SMITHTOWN • DECEMBER 10, 2020

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