The Village Beacon Record - December 24, 2015 by TBR News Media

BEACON RECORD The Village

Mount Sinai • Miller Place • Sound Beach • rocky Point • ShorehaM • Wading river • leiSure country December 24, 2015

Volume 31, No. 22

$1.00

Holiday Memories also: ‘Star Wars: The Force awakens’ review, ‘In the Heart of the Sea’ in Cold Spring Harbor, Wildlife artist Roger Kramer

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Photos by giselle Barkley

clockwise from above, a little girl plays with a balloon during rhonda klch’s holiday dream event; presents line the tables; and klch, on right, poses for a photo with volunteer Priscilla arena.

Rhonda Klch’s holiday event reaches hundreds cilwoman Valerie Cartright (DPort Jefferson Station), as sevFor the past eight years, eral children ran around with Rhonda Klch and her company balloons in the background afEquity First have made many ter receiving their presents and dreams come true. meeting Santa. This year is no different with Cartright was one of many Klch’s annual Holiday Dream people Klch called this year event, which provides Christ- when searching for families mas gifts for Long in need of some Island families in cheer. Lo‘The outpour from holiday need. On Sunday, cal schools and residents who reg- the community has churches were also istered for the event been tremendous contacted to find picked up their these families. Christmas pres- and I’m hoping that While the famients at the Coram it’ll only increase lies don’t need to Fire Department be homeless to headquarters from next year.’ participate in the — Priscilla arena program, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. many Klch, a Miller Place of these families resident, and event volunteers are financially unable to afford upped the ante this year by get- presents around the holidays. ting gifts for around 250 families People like Gordon Leonard from Mount Sinai, Miller Place, of Selden said with the recesPort Jefferson, Port Jefferson Sta- sion it’s harder to live on Long tion, Selden, Medford and other Island, making special seasons towns across the Island. like the holidays more stressful. “These kids feel like they’re “We came here because some walking on a cloud,” said Coun- Long Islanders understand By giSelle Barkley

SWR student raising funds for memorial Ryan Ledda uses Eagle Scout project to build monument for Tom Cutinella

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the plight of many other Long Islanders, and they’re giving because they know people are struggling just to be New Yorkers,” he said. “We don’t want to leave. What choice do we have.” While his son Devon received several gifts from the program this year, he said his favorite part about Sunday’s

program was spending time with his family. According to volunteer Priscilla Arena, of Mount Sinai, the event was a success this year. “The outpour from the community has been tremendous and I’m hoping that it’ll only increase next year,” she said. HOLIDaY DREaM continued on page a4

PAGE A2 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

Heritage Center unites community By Giselle Barkley

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After six years, Heritage Center’s “‘Twas the Night before Christmas” reading is still a hit among community members. The Heritage Trust, which runs the center, started the reading event in 2009 with the goal of promoting a sense of community and enhancing residents’ lives especially around the holiday season. Trust President Lori Baldassare said the event “defines the history and the heritages of our Christmas season.” Photos by Giselle Barkley

Clockwise from above, Fred Drewes poses for a photo at the Heritage Center’s “‘Twas the Night before Christmas” event where he reads the book to children while they enjoy hot chocolate and cookies; kids watch a presentation on “‘Twas The Night before Christmas”; and children read the ‘Night before Christmas’ book during the event.

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Many residents ventured to Heritage Center on Sunday to continue the annual reading. Center volunteer Fred Drewes presented an illustrated reading detailing how Clement Clark Moore’s description of jolly old St. Nick influenced how we view Santa today. His poem is commonly known as “‘Twas the Night before Christmas.” The poem is also known as “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” published in 1823. Community members got a chance to read the poem and enjoyed refreshments of hot chocolate and cookies during the event.

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A3

Tesla Science Center gets early Christmas gift By Giselle Barkley

Science doesn’t come cheap. So it was a pleasant surprise for the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe when the New York State Regional Economic Development Councils announced the center will receive two grants totaling $700,000. While the center has yet to receive the grants, the NYSREDC’s 2015 awards notice for Long Island is proof the grants are forthcoming. The state agency did not reply to messages prior to publication. The center is slated to receive $200,000 through the Market New York grant program, which tackles public relations and increasing tourism, among other responsibilities. The remaining $500,000 will go toward the center’s Wardenclyffe site. The center is currently redeveloping this property and plans to establish the Nikola Tesla Museum and Science Center. The site is the last remaining laboratory of Tesla, a prominent inventor in the late 19th century and early 20th century. According to Tesla Science Center President Jane Alcorn, the center applied for the grants this past July. Alcorn added applying for the grants is a competitive process as there are many applicants for these grants.

“It’s very exciting to have funds to promote our project and to work on the redevelopment of Wardenclyffe,” Alcorn said in an email. Initially, the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe was known as Friends of Science East Inc. While its name changed, the not-for-profit mission to develop Tesla’s only existing laboratory site into a science center and museum remained the same. In 2009, when Brookhaven Town Superintendent of Highways Dan Losquadro was a Suffolk County legislator and former state Assemblyman Marc Alessi was still in office, the two announced plans to acquire the 16-acre property. Former town supervisor, Mark Lesko, and state Sen. Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson) were also part of this effort to acquire and preserve the property on behalf of the state and town, according to an article on the Tesla website. Alessi emphasized its importance as the last Tesla lab in the world. He added that the site was culturally and historically significant as a result. “We need to ensure that it is protected so that future generations can continue to enjoy this landmark,” Alessi said in the article. Regardless of these officials’ plans, Friends of Science East purchased the property in 2013. The organization also

Photo by Giselle Barkley

The Tesla science Center laboratory site in shoreham is blocked off while it’s under redevelopment.

hoped to preserve the site and make improvements. Tesla built his facility in Shoreham in 1901-03. It was a small brick building no bigger than a schoolhouse. Yet behind the building was a 187-foot tower that Tesla intended to be a wireless power transmission station, which Tesla claimed would produce wireless electricity.

Now years later, the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe is looking forward to a brighter future for the site, and hopes to be able to do even more. “We hope to apply for additional grants in the future [that] will assist in the continuation of progress toward the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe opening day,” Alcorn said.

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PAGE A4 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

L et us pause to reﬂect on our blessings, give thanks during this holiday season for all we have been given, and pray for peace and the preservation of all that is good on earth.

May your family be blessed throughout this holiday season.

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Photo by Giselle Barkley

Coram resident Vincent James, right, poses for a photo with his family members at the Holiday Dream event in Coram.

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For Carmen Nunez and her family, who moved from the Dominican Republic to Continued from page A1 Port Jefferson Station, the program was extra special. Her family wasn’t used to Last year, the event helped around getting presents around this time of year. “I feel so happy,” she said. “Thank you 167 families. Arena got involved with the program around a month ago after to [Comsewogue ESL teacher Denise Klch, a business associate and friend of Saul] and everybody who tried to make hers, told her about the event. For Arena, [the children happy by giving them preshelping the program and the families ents], especially this time for Christmas. It’s beautiful.” who benefit seemed natural. While the family is trying to do the For residents like Tiana Wyche, who lives in a shelter, Holiday Dream was best they can here on Long Island, Saul important to bring joy to her children. said they are continuing the event’s mission of giving to othWyche is originally from Riverhead but ‘We came here because some ers and spreading joy. “Even though we currently resides in gave them presents, Port Jefferson Station. Long Islanders understand they’re talking about “Unfortunately, fi- the plight of many other who they can share nancial restrictions Long Islanders, and they’re [the presents with],” impact everybody and Saul said. “They are it becomes difficult giving because they know over holidays,” Klch people are struggling just to selfless themselves.” According to Carsaid. “I think people tright, remembering have this perception be New Yorkers.’ that just because you — Gordon Leonard the spirit of giving is important this time live somewhere, you’re doing very well. But unfortunately, people of year, and she hopes to keep giving in the future through the Holiday Dream get so blind.” Klch added that people don’t always program. “A lot of community organizations realize how many families struggle to live on the Island, much less celebrate the and individuals come together to remind holidays. She started spreading the word the kids that this is a season of giving,” about the event among people in the Cartright said. “The holiday season is business district. While Holiday Dream not only about receiving. They’re reachis the main event where children pick up ing hundreds of kids now, and I can only their toys and have breakfast with Santa, imagine as the years go by, how many there are toy drive events prior to Holi- kids we’re going to be changing their day Dream that Klch and her company lives by letting them know they’re loved and supported by the community.” host to raise more donations. The VILLAGE BEACON RECORd (USPS 004-808) is published Thursdays by TImES BEACON RECORd NEwSPAPERS, 185 Route 25A, Setauket, NY 11733. Periodicals postage paid at Setauket, NY and additional mailing offices. Subscription price $49 annually. Leah S. dunaief, Publisher. POSTmASTER: Send change of address to P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733.

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A5

Romaine speaks on illegal dumping and sand mining Supervisor offers nine ways to strengthen and protect the aquifer On Dec. 16, Supervisor Ed Romaine (R) testified at a New York State Assembly hearing on illegal sand mining and dumping, bringing to the forefront the threats that such actions pose to Long Island’s drinking water. Different from the rest of the state, Long Island is completely dependent on its sole source aquifer for drinking water, and the ecological and economic viability of the region is dependent on strong protections for this irreplaceable resource. At the hearing, state officials announced that they plan to release proposed regulations in February of 2016, including cradle-to-grave tracking of construction and demolition debris, that will help to stop illegal dumping. In his testimony, Romaine said that the Town of Brookhaven worked with law enforcement agencies and took concrete steps to amend the Town Code in 2015 to allow more effective enforcement against illegal sand mining. He applauded the state’s proposal for stricter action and commented that it “must take on the complex task of tracking, monitoring and enforcing statutes that will stop illegal sand mining and illegal dumping on Long Island. The costs of inaction are extraordinary, because water treatment and cleanup of contaminants can easily cost billions of dollars in an area as large as Long Island.” The supervisor also noted that the City of

New York uses aerial patrols and watershed police to monitor activities near their reservoirs, and that they “could serve as a model for a Long Island NYSDEC unit dedicated to the protection of drinking water.” He also made nine recommendations that will strengthen the protection of the aquifer. The first involves upgrading misdemeanor illegal dumping charges to felonies, and the second, will upgrade illegal sand mining charges to felonies. Romaine also suggested improving legal definitions of sand mining and illegal dumping to make prosecutions easier, and requiring manifest logs for all materials being transported on or off individual sites. The fifth suggestion recommended substantially increasing the number of enforcement personnel. The sixth is creating a dedicated drinking water protection unit to focus on illegal dumping, illegal sand mining and other activities that threaten drinking water supplies. Romaine would also like to see improvements in the sharing of information and coordination between local government and enforcement agencies to curtail illegal sand mining and dumping. Another suggestion involves an increase in monitoring existing legal sand mines to ensure drinking water is protected and that sand mines are fully covered with suitable topsoil and revegetated. The final recommendation is the use of Natural Resource Damage

Photo from the Town of Brookhaven

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine, right, speaks at the New York State Assembly hearing on illegal sand mining and dumping.

Claims to force the reclamation and restoration of illegal sand mines. In making the recommendations, Supervisor Romaine said, “I feel strongly that the protection of our water quality is of paramount importance for current and future Brookhaven residents ... and I look forward to working ... to make the penalties for illegal dumping and sand mining a strong deterrent to these activities,” he said. “We

must make certain that all of the progress made to protect our drinking water and surface waters through the expenditure of millions of dollars to purchase open space and to build storm water abatement projects is not undone by allowing criminals to contaminate our water supply by the dumping of toxic waste. We must also ensure that the sand, which is the only natural filter for our drinking water, remains in place.”

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PAGE A6 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

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POLICE BLOTTER Incidents and arrests from Dec. 13-19 Curbing a DWAI Police arrested a 20-year-old man from Port Jefferson Station for driving while ability impaired on Dec. 15, after they saw him drive over a curb on Wilson Avenue and pulled him over.

Photo from Suffolk County Republicans

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, second from right, calls for a federal monitor to oversee the county police department in the wake of recent scandals.

County Republicans call for federal SCPD monitor BY PhiL CoRSo

North Shore lawmakers are calling on the federal government to keep a closer watch on the county police department. At a press conference last week, Suffolk County Legislators Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga), Leslie Kennedy (R-Nesconset) and Tom Muratore (R-Ronkonkoma) stood beside Republican minority leader Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst) at the William Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge to call for heightened oversight of the Suffolk County Police Department via a federal monitor. Their pleas came in light of a recent investigation and indictment of former county Police Chief James Burke, who was accused of beating a handcuffed suspect and attempting to cover up the crime. During the press conference, numerous members of the Republican Caucus made it clear that both Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone (D) and Tim Sini needed to speak up about what they know — if anything — regarding the alleged malfeasance of the department, given that their positions were so intimately tied to its internal mechanisms. Trotta said that as more facts related to Burke roll out, it has become more apparent that the problem needs to be addressed by a federal monitor. He and his colleagues argued that federal involvement would allot the best resources available to the investigation and also instill an element of objectivity. “I want the monitor to come in to make sure that everything in the internal affairs department is running correctly,” Trotta said at the press conference. “I want the monitor to come in

and say that the person appointed to be police commissioner is qualified.” Bellone ensured that a monitor will be established as soon as possible. Bellone tapped Tim Sini to become Suffolk County police commissioner after serving as Bellone’s chief criminal justice advisor since August 2014. Before his tenure as Suffolk’s assistant deputy county executive for public safety, Sini served as an assistant U.S. attorney from 2010 to 2014, specializing in violent crimes, gang prosecutions and largescale narcotics cases. “When looking for a police commissioner, I am seeking someone with character, experience and vision, and Tim Sini has all three,” Bellone said. “Tim is a man of real integrity with a strong sense of justice. Tim Sini has a unique blend of law enforcement experience as a federal prosecutor combined with a keen understanding of Suffolk County’s law enforcement community by serving as my top law enforcement advisor.” But McCaffrey argued at the press conference that there was no time for “on-the-job training” when one is elevated to the level of commissioner of the county police department. McCaffrey argued that Sini is inexperienced, making it that much more essential that federal investigators seek out accountability. “This is not a political issue, it is one of public safety and the integrity of our government,” McCaffrey said. “The State of New York, and now Suffolk County, is just roiling with corruption and mismanagement. The people of Suffolk County deserve much better than this, and anything less than full federal involvement will not be acceptable.”

Hitting the trifecta A 31-year-old Medford man was arrested for driving while ability impaired on Dec. 17 after he failed to maintain his lane and struck a grassy median while speeding on Lincoln Drive in Rocky Point. Police said the man was going 70 miles per hour in a 45-mile-per-hour zone in a 1998 GMC. Wanted woman On Dec. 16, police collared a Wading River woman who had five warrants out for her arrest. At the time officers found her on Babylon Drive in Sound Beach, the 26-year-old was also allegedly in possession of a controlled substance, and was charged with that crime. That sucks Police arrested a 28-year-old man from Lake Grove for petit larceny on Dec. 16, right after he stole two vacuums from a store at the Centereach Mall. Hand-to-hand-to-cuffs Police observed a woman in a handto-hand drug transaction on Route 25A in Selden on Dec. 18, and stopped the 55-year-old before she could pull away in her 2002 Cadillac. Officers found heroin in her possession and arrested her for criminal possession of a controlled substance. Caffeine fiend On Dec. 18, a 69-year-old man from Centereach was arrested for petit larceny. According to police, the man entered the Shoprite on College Road in Selden on Sept. 15 and took a Keurig Coffee Maker worth around $190. Vroom vroom to jail Police arrested a 29-year-old Ronkonkoma man on Dec. 13 for driving while ability impaired, after the suspect failed to maintain his lane while driving a 2008 Volkswagen south on Nicolls Road in Stony Brook. Police said the man was speeding, at 62 miles per hour. Unwarranted steal A 27-year-old woman from Port Jefferson Station was arrested for petit larceny on Dec. 18, after stealing assorted costume jewelry, clothing and other items from a store on Route 347 in Setauket-East Setauket. According to police, there were already two unrelated warrants out for the woman’s arrest.

Cashing in Between Dec. 13 and Dec. 15, an unknown person withdrew more than $200 cash from a bank without the Port Jefferson Station cardholder’s permission. That’s a big dog On Dec. 19, an unknown person entered the Walmart on Nesconset Highway in Setauket-East Setauket and stole a television and a dog bed. Police said the person may have used the dog bed to conceal the TV. In hot water An unidentified person stole three faucets from the Lowe’s Home Improvement store on Nesconset Highway in Stony Brook on Dec. 18. Taking it to-go On Dec. 18, three unknown men with guns entered the Peking Chinese Kitchen on Middle Country Road in Selden as someone was closing the restaurant. The men demanded money but the suspects fled empty-handed. Visa revoked On Dec. 19, someone stole a jacket, a wallet and a person’s visa from a car in the Starbucks parking lot on Middle Country Road in Selden. Rock on Tree According to police, an unidentified person threw a large rock at a 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer and damaged the car. Police didn’t specify where the car was damaged but said the incident happened some time between Dec. 18 and Dec. 19 on Tree Road in Centereach. Tired of theft An unknown person gained entry to the Mavis Discount Tire on Route 25A in Mount Sinai and stole money from the register before fleeing the store. The incident happened on Dec. 14 around 8:25 p.m. Smashed On Dec. 19, someone smashed the back window of a 2009 Honda outside a residence on Deepdale Drive in Rocky Point. Police are in purse-uit An unidentified person stole someone’s bag from the Walmart at the Centereach Mall on Dec. 19. Police said the victim put the bag down and walked away. When they returned, the bag was gone. According to police, the bag contained money and an ATM card. — Compiled by Giselle barkley

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A7

Donation aids in building RP vet’s home Photo by Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk

Left, Joe Cognitore, commander of Rocky Point Veterans of Foreign War Fischer/Hewins Post 6249 and Kevin Lyle, Post Advocate, right, presented Diane Burke, executive director and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk, with a donation check to support the Hurricane Sandy repair project on the home of Veteran Tommy Sullivan and his wife Susan, in Rocky Point.

Legals Notice of formation of Simple Wellness Solutions, LLC. Articles of Org. filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 9/29/2015. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC: 5 Sunburst Dr, Rocky Point. Purpose: Any lawful purpose 461 11/26 6x vbr Notice of formation of Baner Frank Property Management, LLC, a domestic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/27/2015. Office location: County of Suffolk. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 8 Lucille Drive, South Setauket, NY, 11720. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 481 12/10 6x vbr NOTICE OF ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING OF THE ROCKY POINT FIRE DISTRICT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Rocky Point Fire District, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, State of New York, the annual Organizational Meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of said District for 2016 will be held at the administrative office of the Fire District adjacent to the Shoreham Firehouse, State Route 25A, Shoreham, New York at 7:00 PM (prevailing time) on the 5th day of January, 2016. Dated: December 14, 2015 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE ROCKY POINT FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York. By: Edwin S. Brooks Fire District Secretary 515 12/24 1x vbr NOTICE TO BIDDERS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Rocky Point Fire District, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, separate sealed bids for the provision of #2 Fuel Oil, Diesel Fuel, and Regular Unleaded Gasoline for calendar year 2016 will be re-

ceived at the office of the Board of Fire Commissioners, adjacent to the Shoreham Firehouse, State Route 25A, P.O. Box 370, Shoreham, New York 11786 until 7:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the 5th day of January 2016, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids will be submitted in sealed envelopes at the above address and shall bear on the face thereof the name and address of the bidder and the name of the contract or contracts bid upon (e.g. “Fuel Oil”, “Diesel Fuel”, and “Gasoline”). Bidders are advised that the anticipated amount of Fuel Oil required for the year 2015 will be approximately 15,000 gallons; that the anticipated amount of Diesel Fuel required for the year 2016 will be approximately 25,000 gallons; and that the anticipated amount of Gasoline required for the year 2016 will be approximately 25,000 gallons. Bids must be submitted based on an automatic delivery schedule. Separate contracts for the above items will be awarded by the Board of Fire Commissioners to the lowest responsible bidders. In cases where two or more responsible bidders submit identical bids as to price, the Board of Fire Commissioners may award the contract to either of such bidders. The Board of Fire Commissioners reserves the right to reject all bids and re-advertise for new bids in its discretion. The Board of Fire Commissioners reserves the right to waive any and all irregularities in bid procedures so long as they are deemed immaterial in the sole discretion of the board. No bids may be withdrawn by any bidder for a period of fortyfive (45) days from the date of bid opening. Dated December 14th, 2015 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE ROCKY POINT FIRE DISTRICT Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York By: EDWIN S. BROOKS Fire District Secretary 516 12/24 1x vbr AMENDMENTS AND CHANGES TO THE ZONING ORDINANCES OF THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN CHAPTER 85, ARTICLE VII CONCERNING THE FOLLOWING: TOWN BOARD’S OWN MOTION

SWR-7 FOR A CHANGE OF ZONE ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN SHOREHAM, NY NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF CHANGE OF USE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION ON TOWN BOARD’S MOTION FOR CERTAIN PROPERTY IN SHOREHAM PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on October 1, 2015, after a public hearing, the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven duly adopted the following resolution: WHEREAS, on September 17, 2015, a public hearing was held to consider the Town Board’s own motion for a change of zone in connection with a certain parcel of property in Shoreham; and WHEREAS, after due consideration and deliberation; BE IT RESOLVED that the abovecaptioned change of zone application is hereby approved as follows: SCTM Number 0200-079.00-06.00-008.000 Rezoning From: A Residence 1 Rezoning To: J Business DATED: DECEMBER 14, 2015 AT: FARMINGVILLE, NEW YORK STATE OF NEW YORK) COUNTY OF SUFFOLK) I, DONNA LENT, Town Clerk of Brookhaven, State of New York, do hereby certify that the annexed foregoing is a true copy of the amendments and changes to the Code of the Town of Brookhaven Chapter 85 Article VII which amendment and change was duly adopted by a motion of the Town Board on the 1st day of October, 2015 as herein above set forth as the same appears in the minutes of said meeting on file in my Office. IN TESTIMONY WHERE OF I have hereunto set my hand and annexed the seal of the said Town the 14th day of DECEMBER, 2015. DONNA LENT TOWN CLERK TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN 519 12/24 1x vbr NOTICE OF ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE MILLER PLACE FIRE DISTRICT FOR 2016 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Organizational Meeting for the calendar year 2016 of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Miller Place Fire District in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, will be held on Monday, January 4, 2016 at 6:30 P.M. at the Main Firehouse of the Miller Place Fire District, 12 Miller Place Road, Miller Place, New York. Dated: Miller Place, New York December 15, 2015

By order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Miller Place Fire District Janet Staufer, District Secretary 524 12/24 1x vbr NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE MILLER PLACE FIRE DISTRICT FOR 2016 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Regular Meetings for the calendar year 2016 of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Miller Place Fire District in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, commencing with the January 13th meeting, will be held on the second Wednesday of the month at 5:00 P.M. at the Main Firehouse of the Miller Place Fire District, 12 Miller Place Road, Miller Place, New York. Dated: Miller Place, New York December 15, 2015 By Order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Miller Place Fire District Janet Staufer, District Secretary 525 12/24 1x vbr PUBLIC NOTICE MT. SINAI FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, SUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW YORK PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the MT. SINAI FIRE DISTRICT has scheduled the Organizational Meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at the firehouse located at 746 Mt. Sinai Coram Road, Mt. Sinai, New York 11766. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the First Regular Meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the MT. SINAI FIRE DISTRICT for the calendar year 2016 shall be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. at the firehouse located 746 Mt. Sinai Coram Road, Mt. Sinai, New York 11766. Dated: December 16, 2015 Mt. Sinai, New York BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS MT. SINAI FIRE DISTRICT Marianne Waterbury, Secretary 527 12/24 1x vbr

appointment.

NOTICE OF ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING AND FIRST REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE SOUND BEACH FIRE DISTRICT FOR 2016 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Sound Beach Fire District in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, will hold its organizational meeting at 7:30 P.M., on Tuesday, January 5, 2016, at the Main Firehouse of the Sound Beach Fire District, 152 Sound Beach Boulevard, Sound Beach, New York. NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN, that the First Regular Meeting for the calendar year 2016 of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Sound Beach Fire District will be held on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 immediately following the organizational meeting at the Main Firehouse of the Sound Beach Fire District, 152 Sound Beach Boulevard, Sound Beach, New York. Dated: Smithtown, New York December 15, 2015 By Order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Sound Beach Fire District Lynnann Frank, District Secretary 528 12/24 1x vbr PUBLIC NOTICE Shoreham-Wading River Central School District KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION The Shoreham-Wading River Central School District’s kindergarten registration for the 2016 - 2017 school year will be held at MILLER AVENUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL from 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM between: Monday, January 11, 2016 and Friday, January 15, 2016 If your child will be five (5) years of age on or before December 1, 2016, please obtain a registration packet from the District Office or online @ www. swrschools.org (Navigate to Our District, Child Enrollment). This packet should be completed prior to your registration meeting at the district office. Late registrants (after 1/15/16) must contact District Office for an

Complete registration instructions can be found on the SWR website or by calling District Office at 631-821-8100. You must register if you plan to have your child attend kindergarten in 2016-2017 school year 535 12/24 1x vbr NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION SUBJECT TO AUTHORIZING A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN AND NEW YORK SMSA LIMITED PARTNERSHIP D/B /A VERIZON WIRELESS, FOR THE LEASING OF APPROXIMATELY 225 SQUARE FEET OF PROPERTY AT DEFENSE HILL ROAD, SHOREHAM, NEW YORK NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, at a regular meeting thereof held on the 17th day of December duly adopted a resolution subject to permissive referendum, the purpose and effect of which is to authorize the entering into of a Lease Agreement between the Town of Brookhaven and New York SMSA Limited Partnership, d/b/a Verizon Wireless for a five (5) year term, authorizing the leasing of approximately 225 square feet of said property located at the Town of Brookhaven property known as Defense Hill Site - Suffolk County Tax Map No. 0200-082.00-01.00-003.000, for the installation of an equipment shelter, at an annual lease payment of $24,000, the rental amount for each subsequent year shall be increased at a rental of 103% of the preceding annual payment. Said lease agreement may be renewed for three (3) additional five (5) year terms at a rate of one hundred and three percent (103%) of the annual payment. The subject resolution is available for public inspection between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Brookhaven Town Clerk’s office located at One Independence Hill, Farmingville, New York. Dated: December 17, 2015 At: Farmingville, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN DONNA LENT, TOWN CLERK 539 12/24 1x vbr

PAGE A8 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

Movers & Shakers

Shoreham scout solidifies Cutinella legacy pedestal with a bronze bust of Cutinella. The bronze piece will be life size. Shoreham-Wading River High School’s “I thought it was a very big project — I “Tommy Tough” slogan is not only chang- was very nervous,” Ledda’s mother Jening the culture of the Wildcats football nifer Ledda said. “I myself didn’t know team — it’s changing the community. the Cutinellas, but after Ryan went to the When Tom Cutinella passed away board and got approval I met Mrs. Cutinfrom an on-field collision last year, soph- ella. I found out how the boy was outstandomore Ryan Ledda was right in the mid- ing in every aspect of what he does. It redle of thinking about what he should do minded me of all of the kids who do good.” for his Eagle Scout project. Ledda didn’t According to Ryan Ledda, the projknow Tom, but his sister Gabriella did, ect is estimated to cost $30,000-$40,000. and after seeing how the loss affected The approval was quick by the board, but her, coupled with what he saw during a the approval by Boy Scout Troop 161 in Clemson University football game, his Shoreham took longer. memorial idea was born. “You need to fill out a long application “Before each game, and they send it back the Clemson team comes ‘Those who went to with improvements and onto the field touching a school with him will revisions,” he said. “But memorial called Howthey thought it was a ard’s Rock, and I figured always remember him, great idea. A lot of the I could do something but kids to come that Eagle board members similar to that,” Ryan knew Tom’s family so Ledda said. “That the didn’t know him might they wanted to help team could come out and not, so hopefully this can out. Once they heard touch the memorial for how much it was going good luck before each help them honor Tom.’ to cost they got a little — RYAN LEDDA freaked out, but I told home game. My goal is that everyone in the school could be con- them how I was going to raise money nected to Tom without him being there. So and how important it was because of how no one will forget him.” Tom affected the community.” First, Ledda presented the idea to high To help fund the project, bricks are beschool Principal Dan Holtzman, before ing sold that can be engraved, to rest atop going to the board of education. the base. Smaller bricks cost $125, while “I thought it was an impressive one,” larger ones cost $250. Holtzman said. “It was well-received by “Those who went to school with him the board of education and they gave Ryan will always remember him, but kids to the go-ahead. I think it is a meaningful come that didn’t know him might not, so and thoughtful project and one that I hope hopefully this can help them honor Tom,” encourages students at all grade levels to Ledda said. engage in community-oriented projects.” The sophomore created a website where The proposal was a 4- by 20-foot retain- the bricks can be purchased, and he handing wall on a pre-existing hill on the field ed out flyers in front of the school that that would have a concrete base with pav- were donated by a local printing company. ers stacked on top. In the middle will be a To purchase a brick, go to www.bricksrus. BY DESIRÉE KEEGAN

Photos above and left from Ryan Ledds; file photo below by Bill Landon

Clockwise from top, Ryan Ledda whose Eagle Scout project will raise money to fund a memorial in Tom Cutinella’s name; the memorial will rest on the pre-existing hill in the new Tom Cutinella Memorial Field; and Cutinella’s jersey number 54 is carried onto the field by his teammates during a championship game.

com/order/bsatroop161. There is also a GoFundMe account raising funds for the base of the memorial and bronze statue. The goal is to reach $20,000. Currently, 34 people have donated a combined $3,271 in the last month. Fourteen of those people have donated $54 or $154, representing Cutinella’s jersey No. 54. To donate to this project, go to www.gofundme.com/tomcmemorial. For Shoreham-Wading River varsity football coach Matt Millheiser, he thinks all projects done in Cutinella’s name have been beneficial for the community. “Outside of football, you see so many projects and so many things done — whether it’s a run or a blood drive or this Eagle Scout project — that are done in

Tom’s name, he said. “It really shows the impact he had as a person and some of the good things that are being done by his friends and family and even people that didn’t know him, in the things they do throughout their lives. I think it is part of his long-standing effect.” As for the memorial, the head coach knows it will only add to the field. “I think it’s a great, worthy cause and idea — they’re all good things to remember their friend and brother who was lost,” Millheiser said. “‘Tommy Tough’ kind of changed the culture of Shoreham-Wading River football and the way the kids viewed how they went to work, how they practiced and how they prepared and how they carried themselves, and it really speaks to his legacy.”

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A9

PEOPLE

RP student gives back to Make-a-Wish

Photo from the Rocky Point school district

Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School first-graders made cards for a burn victim.

First-graders grant a wish Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School first-graders in Cecilia Doolittle’s class helped to make a holiday wish come true for an 8-year-old burn victim. The students, with the help of their

Rocky Point Middle School sixth-grader Frankie Anzaldi spearheaded a holiday letter-writing campaign near and dear to his heart this winter, as he helped donate more than 2,000 letters to the 2015 Macy’s Makea-Wish Believe Campaign. A regular contributor to a variety of causes, Anzaldi selected this initiative as he had a wish granted by the foundation two years ago. Throughout his charitable campaign, he encouraged students throughout the Rocky Point school district, as well as staff and community members, to pen holiday letters, as Macy’s department stores once again pledged to donate a $1 to Make-

Photo from the Rocky Point school district

Rocky Point sixth-grader Frankie Anzaldi helped donate more than 2,000 letters to the 2015 Macy’s Make-a-Wish Believe Campaign.

a-Wish for each letter received. In addition to the letters, he also helped to sell approximately $200 in ornaments for the cause.

Postmarked with holiday wishes

parents, created approximately 20 cards to send to the child, wishing her a speedy recovery and happy holiday. It was the child’s only wish this year to fill a tree cardholder with cards.

The Rocky Point Middle School Friends of Rachel Club worked to bring a sense of home to active-duty soldiers this holiday season. The club members organized a cardwriting campaign, and the completed pieces were sent to the Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes Program, which distributes cards to members of the military and veterans around the world. Photo from the Rocky Point school district

Rocky Point Middle School’s Friends of Rachel Club wrote holiday cards for active duty military.

Photo from Michele Boccia

Preschool students from Kiddie Academy smile for a photo with the toy they donated.

Preschoolers donate toys to local charity community involvement. When Alicia Fuggetta, a social worker from the Family Service League’s William Floyd Center, arrived to pick up the toys, she was delighted. “We have 6,000 children who will receive a gift this year thanks to the generosity of the children who attend Kiddie Academy of Wading River, and so many other organizations,” she said. Integral to Kiddie Academy’s curriculum is character education. “Donating toys and ensuring that our children know where their gifts were going is very much in line of what we do each day,” St. Nicholas said. “We believe that every experience is an opportunity to learn, and this project is an example of how the best learning happens without a child knowing it.”

William Cassidy William Cassidy, age 76, of Rocky Point, died Dec. 8. Born July 1, 1939, in the Bronx, he was the son of John and Alice Cassidy. He served in the Army during the Korean War. He was employed by Key Foods in Brooklyn, in warehousing. He is survived by his beloved wife Betty; loving daughters Anne Friello, Alice Cordova, Betty Love and Kathleen Cosme; son William; sisters Maureen

Biebrich and June Berrios; and 11 cherished grandchildren. A Mass of Christian burial was held at St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church in Rocky Point. A private cremation followed. Entombment of cremains will take place at Calverton National Cemetery at a later date. All funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Rocky Point Funeral Home. www.rockypointfuneralhome.com.

Rocky Point Funeral Home

Jeff a. Davis, lic. manager & owner

631-744-9000

603 Route 25A Rocky Point, NY 11778 www.rockypointfuneralhome.com

The preschoolers who attend Kiddie Academy of Wading River participated in the Family Service League’s annual holiday toy drive, Project T.O.Y. (Treasure Our Youth). The children donated toys to the nonprofit so that parents can “shop” for two new toys for each of their children at no cost. “As part of our character education, we believe in teaching children to give back to the community at an early age, and to help others shape caring and compassionate children,” said Christina St. Nicholas, director of Kiddie Academy. “As part of character development, teachers spoke with children on how important it is to assist those who may need a boost this holiday season.” When children placed a toy in the Project T.O.Y. gift barrel, they were made aware that giving to others is an important part of

OBITUARY

PAGE A10 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

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DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A11

Lynch scores 30 points in nailbiting battle at Mount Sinai Boys’ BasketBall

Rocky Point . . . . . . . 46 Mount Sinai . . . . . . . 41 By Bill landon

Rocky Point’s Harry Lynch led his team to victory with 30 points in the Eagles’ come-from-behind win over host Mount Sinai, 46-41, in nonleague boys’ basketball action Friday night. Lynch, a senior, went to work early in the opening quarter with three threepointers and two field goals to help put his team out front 17-10 after the first eight minutes of play. “We came out hot,” he said. “Everyone was setting screens and we were moving the ball. I was lucky I hit a couple of shots.” On the other side of the court, Mount Sinai senior Nolan Kelly carried the load early for the Mustangs, banking a trifecta, a field goal and a pair of free throws for

TBR

seven of his team’s 19 points after two quarters of play. “Harry Lynch is who we’ve keyed on for the last three seasons,” Kelly said. “We played fairly well, but we missed a lot of shots. Had we shot the way we’ve been shooting, we would’ve pulled this one out.” Lynch remained unstoppable, as he hit his fourth trey and netted a pair of field goals to help his team to a 27-19 advantage by the halftime break. “We’re lucky to have Harry [Lynch],” Rocky Point head coach James Jordan said. “He was on fire in that first half, and he continued in the second half. He’s our general out there, so where he goes, we go.” The Mustangs were fired up coming out of the locker room, though, and because Rocky Point lost the battle of the boards early in the game, Jordan said it forced some adjustments after halftime. As a result, Mount Sinai opened the third quarter with an answer for Lynch, as the team closed within one point at the 5:33 mark, 30-29. BOYS’ BASKETBALL continued on page A13

Photo by Bill Landon

Rocky Point senior Harry lynch shoots the ball on his way to 30 points on the evening.

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PAGE A12 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

138715

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A13

No. 12 is lucky for Eagles cheer The Rocky Point High School varsity cheerleading team has continued to build upon the legacy of past squads and captured its 12th consecutive bid to compete at the Universal Cheerleaders Association national competition in February. The team, which is lead by head coach Anna Spallina and assistant coach Ariana Scanlon, earned a bid based on its performance at the UCA Empire Regionals, held at Hofstra University this December. Photo from the Rocky Point school district

The Rocky Point varsity cheerleading team is heading to the national competition.

Boys’ BasketBall Continued from page A11

“We came out strong in the first half, but we came out a little flat in the second,” Rocky Point sophomore Alec Rinaldi said. “We’ve been known to do that, but we stuck with them — we weathered the storm; got right back in it.” Behind senior Noah Wessels’ six points in the quarter, with four other players contributing, Mount Sinai scored a field goal to give the Mustangs their first lead of the game, 31-30. The score flip-flopped and by the fourth quarter it was Rocky Point that was clinging to a one-point advantage, 37-36. The Eagles looked to finish off the Mustangs, and surged ahead 43-36 with just over three minutes to go, but Mount Sinai battled back and trimmed the deficit to 43-41 with just under two minutes left in the game. “I didn’t think they were going to be that strong shooting out of the gate,” Mount Sinai senior Vinny Margulies said. “Defensively, we played well the whole game. It’s just that we were shaky shooting throughout the game.”

Mount Sinai had the opportunity to tie the game with 46 seconds left on a 1-and-1 opportunity, but missed. As the clock wound down to 20 seconds, Lynch was fouled and confidently swished both to seal the deal. With 4.4 seconds on the clock, Rocky Point senior Colin Kotarski scored once off his appearance at the charity stripe, to give the game its final score. “Harry Lynch is an outstanding player, and he showed that again tonight,” Mount Sinai head coach Ryan McNeely said. “We played him man-to-man and he was getting real good looks and getting shots, so we changed to a zone, where we trapped to keep the ball out of his hands to make someone else hurt us.” Lynch scored six three-pointers on the evening. Rinaldi banked seven points and Kotarski tacked on six. Topping the scoreboard for Mount Si-

Photos by Bill Landon

Clockswise from left, Mount Sinai senior Noah Wessels changes direction at mid-court; Rocky Point sophomore Alec Rinaldi drives the lane; and Mount Sinai senior Nolan Kelly attempts a jumper.

nai was Kelly with 12, while Wessels and Margulies tacked on eight points apiece. Rocky Point will have a week off before hosting Shoreham-Wading River

next Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 11 a.m. Mount Sinai hit the road Tuesday for a game at East Hampton, but results were not available by press time.

PAGE A14 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

SBU

Dec. 24-Dec. 30, 2015

SPORTSWEEK STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY

Tomorrow is Friday — wear red on campus!

THE QUOTE

‘I thought we did a good job of moving the ball. Our assist total was great. … We were able to finish when it counted.’ — STEVE PIKIELL

Anyagaligbo scores 23 points The Seawolves set their season-high in assists with 15 led by Davion Wingate’s six

nline

• Freshman forward Ogechi Anyagaligbo wins five Under Armour Rookie of the Week honors in a row. • Football’s Victor Ochi tabbed as STATS FCS All-American Content provided by SBU and printed as a service to our advertiser.

The front-court duo of Brittany Snow and Ogechi Anyagaligbo combined for 35 points and 22 rebounds to lift the Stony Brook women’s basketball team (7-5) to a 71-54 victory over LIU Brooklyn (2-7) on Monday night at Island Federal Credit Union Arena. The Stony Brook defense locked down in the second quarter, limiting the Blackbirds to just five points over the 10-minute period, the lowest total by an opponent in any quarter all season. The Seawolves stretched a 19-16 first-quarter lead into a 39-21 margin at halftime by holding the Blackbirds to 2-13 shooting in the second quarter, while going 8-15. The Seawolves pounded the Blackbirds inside, outscoring them 46-26 in the paint. Stony Brook shot its best percentage of the season from three-point range, finishing the game 5-12. Freshman guard Davion Wingate, making her first career start, led the way with a 3-for-4 eﬀort from behind the arc, totaling 14 points for the game. Stony Brook forced 21 LIU Brooklyn turnovers, the most it has caused since 23 against Saint Peter’s University on Nov. 20. Junior guard Christa Scognamiglio tied

her career-high with six steals. Stony Brook’s largest lead was 28 points, a 55-27 advantage with 3:18 to play in the third quarter. The Seawolves set their season-high in assists with 15 led by Wingate’s six. Stony Brook lost the rebounding battle for the first time in seven games, finishing with a 42-39 disadvantage on the glass. For the second consecutive game, Stony Brook had two players finish with double-doubles and a third just narrowly miss out. Anyagaligbo notched her third of the season with 23 points and 12 rebounds, while Snow recorded her fifth of the season with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Scognamiglio finished with nine points and nine rebounds. Snow has scored in double figures in all 12 games this season. The Seawolves have won a season-best three games and are two games over .500 (7-5) for the first time since they were 3-1. Stony Brook is 5-0 when holding its opponents under 60 points. Stony Brook has nine days oﬀ over the holiday break before they host Harvard University on Dec. 30 at 4 p.m.

File photos from SBU

At top, Ogechi Anyagaligbo looks to the basket. Above, Brittany Snow with a jumper.

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A15

Warney, Stony Brook outlast Hofstra, 71-68 Senior forward tallies 22 points, nine rebounds and five blocks For a second straight year, Stony put myself in a position to help the team. Brook and Hofstra University battled I’m happy I could provide the help today. to the final seconds, but it was the Sea- Hofstra’s a great team. They were picked wolves who came out on to finish first in the CAA top this time, beating the ‘This is bragging so this was a great chalPride, 71-68, Sunday affor us.” rights for Long Island. lenge ternoon at Island Federal Warney, who was Credit Union Arena be- ... I always try to put named America East’s fore 3,334 fans. Player of the Week for the myself in a position Senior forward Jameel third time this season, was Warney finished with 22 to help the team. I’m the only scorer in double points, nine rebounds happy I could provide figures for the Seawolves, and five blocks for Stony but they were paced by juthe help today.’ Brook (6-4). nior guard Lucas Wood— Jameel Warney house and sophomore “This is bragging rights for Long Island,” Warney guard and forward Bryan said. “They won it last year and we had Sekunda, who each had nine points. Senior all year to think about it. I always try to forward Rayshaun McGrew and sophomore guard and forward Roland Nyama followed close behind with eight apiece. Ameen Tanksley and Brian Bernardi led Hofstra (6-4) with 23 and 22 points, respectively. Juan’ya Green, the Pride’s leading scorer at 17.6 points per game entering the contest, was held to five. “In the first half, we rushed things a bit,” Stony Brook junior guard Ahmad Walker said. “In the second half, we adjusted to their different defenses. We accomplished what we worked on in practice. We got good looks as it got late in the shot clock.” After Sekunda made one of two free throws with 15 seconds left to make it 71-68, Hofstra’s Denton Koon missed a three, but got his own rebound and

found Green, whose three-point attempt was long as the buzzer sounded. Stony Brook led for good on a threepointer from Nyama with 10:44 left in regulation. Hofstra got within one five times, but the Seawolves scored on the ensuing possession each time. “I’m just really proud of our guys,” Stony Brook head coach Steve Pikiell said. “I thought we did a good job of moving the ball. Our assist total was great. … We were able to finish when it counted.” Bernardi’s layup made it 65-64 with 1:44 left, but Walker connected on a three-point play to make it 68-64. Warney made two free throws with 20 seconds left to make it 70-66 Stony Brook. Tanksley cut it to two with a pair of free throws with 16 seconds left. Junior guard Lucas Woodhouse hits three three-pointers, his most in a Stony

File photos from SBU

Clockwise from top left, Rayshaun McGrew maintains possession; Jameel Warney goes up to the rim; and Roland Nyama chases after the ball.

Brook uniform. Walker recorded at least five assists for the seventh time in 10 games, tying his career-high with eight. Stony Brook faced a quick turnaround, traveling to Pennsylvania for a contest against Lehigh University on Tuesday, but results were not available by press time.

mike rooney selected sixth overall in mll Supplemental Draft Stony Brook’s all-time leading scorer was chosen by Boston

File photo from SBU

Mike Rooney competing in a Stony Brook University game this past season.

Former Stony Brook All-American Mike Rooney ‘15 was chosen sixth overall by the Boston Cannons in the Major League Lacrosse Supplemental Draft on Dec. 16. Rooney posted one of the greatest seasons in Stony Brook history with school records of 63 assists and 111 points. The first team All-America East selection also scored 48 goals, a seasonhigh, recording more points in 2015 than in 2013 and 2014 combined. After totaling nine points in the first three games, Rooney recorded eight points in a win over Fairfield University. Over a seven-game span, he accumulated 54 points and finished the season by averaging more than six points per game. Rooney had nine games with at least seven points, including a career-high 11 at the University of Vermont. He owns school records for career assists with 121 and career points with 253. Rooney is one of only two players in school history with 100 goals and 100 assists. In other news, Adam Rand ‘11 and

Sean Brady ‘13 were chosen by New York and Tom Compitello ‘11 was picked by Boston. Statistically, Rand, an honorable mention All-America in 2011, finished his career among the greatest faceoff specialists. He totaled 796 face-off wins, good for the third most in Division I history, and is second all-time in face-offs attempted. He’s in the top five in school history with 288 ground balls, tallying a career-high 96 in 2011. Compitello, an assistant coach at Bryant University, scored 68 goals and had 78 assists in 51 career games for the Seawolves. As a junior, he tallied 37 goals and 35 assists en route to honorable mention All-America honors. Compitello was a two-time All-America East selection. Brady, who led the conference in goals against average with 9.94, and save percentage with 515 in 2012, finished the regular season with 120 saves. He registered double-digit saves in six games, including a career-best 17 at Binghamton University, to earn first team All-America East honors.

PAGE A16 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

Religious ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

CATHOLIC

STONY BROOK CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

ST. JAMES ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

Connecting to God, Each Other and the World

400 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket (631) 689–1127 • Fax (631) 689–1215

www.stonybrookchristian.com Pastor Troy Reid Weekly Schedule Sunday Worship w/nursery 10 am Kidmo Children’s Church • Ignited Youth Fellowship and Food Always to Follow Tuesday Evening Prayer: 7 pm Thursday Morning Bible Study w/Coffee & Bagels: 10 am Friday Night Experience “FNX” for Pre K-Middle School: 6:30 pm Ignite Youth Ministry: 7:30 pm Check out our website for other events and times

BYZANTINE CATHOLIC RESURRECTION BYZANTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH

38 Mayflower Avenue, Smithtown NY 11787 631–759–6083 resurrectionsmithtown@gmail.com www.resurrectionsmithtown.org Fr. Jack Custer, SSL., STD., Pastor Cantor Joseph S. Durko Divine Liturgy: Sunday, 11:15am followed by fellowship in the parish hall. Holy Days: 7:00pm. See website for days and times. Faith Formation for All Ages: Sunday School (Ages 4-13), alternate Sundays at 10:00am ByzanTeens (14-18), alternate Tuesdays at 7:00pm Adult Faith Formation: Mondays at 7:00pm. PrayerAnon Prayergroup for substance addictions: Wednesdays at 7 pm See the website for current topics and schedule. The Sacraments: Baptism, Chrismation and Eucharist for infants, children and adults arranged by appointment. Sacrament of Matrimony arranged by appointment. Sacrament of Repentance: Sundays 10:50 to 11:05am and before or after all other services. All services in English. A parish of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic.

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. GERARD MAJELLA 300 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station (631) 473–2900 • Fax (631) 473–0015

www.stgmajella.org Rev. Gennaro DiSpigno, Pastor Oﬃce of Christian Formation • 928–2550 We celebrate Eucharist Saturday evening 5 pm, Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 am Weekday Mass Monday–Friday 9 am We celebrate Baptism Third weekend of each month during any of our weekend Masses We celebrate Marriage Arrangements can be made at the church with our Pastor or Deacon We celebrate Penance Confession is celebrated on Saturdays from 4–5 pm We celebrate You! Visit Our Thrift Shop Mon. – Fri. 10 am–4 pm + Sat. 10 am–2 pm

INFANT JESUS ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 110 Myrtle Ave., Port Jefferson, NY 11777 (631) 473-0165 • Fax (631) 331-8094

D irectory

www.www.infantjesus.org Reverend Patrick M. Riegger, Pastor Associates: Rev. Francis Lasrado & Rev. Rolando Ticllasuca To schedule Baptisms and Weddings, Please call the Rectory Confessions: Saturdays 12:30-1:15 pm in the Lower Church Religious Ed.: (631) 928-0447 • Parish Outreach: (631) 331-6145 Weekly Masses: 6:50 and 9 am in the Church, 12 pm in the Chapel* Weekend Masses: Saturday at 5 pm in the Church, 5:15 pm in the Chapel* Sunday at 7:30 am, 10:30 am, 12 pm, and 5 pm in the Church and at 8:30 am, 10 am, and 11:30 am (Family Mass) in the Chapel* Spanish Masses: Sunday at 8:45 am and Wednesday at 6 pm in the Church *Held at the Infant Jesus Chapel at St. Charles Hospital Religious Education: (631) 928-0447 Parish Outreach: (631) 331-6145

429 Rt. 25A, Setauket, NY 11733 Phone/Fax: (631) 941–4141

Mission Statement: In faith we come together to celebrate the Eucharist as a Parish Family; and as a Catholic community of faith, we are sent to be Christ to the world around us. Rev. James-Patrick Mannion, Pastor Rev. Daniel Opoku-Mensah, Associate Rev. Jon Fitzgerald, In Residence Weekday Masses: Monday – Saturday 8:00 am Christmas Eve Masses, Thurs., December 24 4 pm Church, 4:15 pm Parish Center, 7:30 pm Church, 11 pm Church (Carols Sung by the Choir at 10:30 pm) Christmas Day Masses, Fri., December 25 8 am Church, 10:15 am Church, 11:45 am Church (No afternoon or evening Masses On Christmas Day) The Feast of Mary, Mother of God, Thursday, December 31, 5 pm Church Friday, January 1, 2016, 10 am Church Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil 5:00 pm Sunday 8:00am, 9:30 am (family), 11:30 am (choir), 6:00 pm (Youth) Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, Baptisms: Sundays at 1:30 pm (except during Lent) Reconciliation: Saturdays 4:00 – 4:45 pm or by appointment Anointing Of The Sick: by request Holy Matrimony: contact the office at least 9 months before desired date

CONGREGATIONAL MT. SINAI CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

233 North Country Road, Mt. Sinai • (631) 473–1582 www.mtsinaichurchli.org “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here” Sunday Services at 10 am Sunday School and childcare oﬀered at the 10 am service and open to all infants to 8th grade. Last Sundays of the month: 10 am Welcome Sunday Service A service welcoming those with differing abilities We are an Open and Affirming Congregation.

EPISCOPAL ALL SOULS EPISCOPAL CHURCH “Our little historic church on the hill” across from the Stony Brook Duck Pond

Main Street, Stony Brook • (631) 751–0034

www.allsouls–stonybrook.org • allsoulsepiscopalchurch@verizon.net Please come and welcome our new Priests: The Rev. Dr. Richard Visconti, Priest–In–Charge The Rev. Farrell D. Graves, Priest Associate Sunday Holy Eucharist: 8 and 9:30 am Religious instruction for children follows the 9:30 am Service This is a small eclectic Episcopal congregation that has a personal touch. We welcome all regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey. Walk with us.

CAROLINE CHURCH OF BROOKHAVEN The Rev. Cn. Dr. Richard D. Visconti, Rector The Rev. Farrell Graves, Priest Associate

1 Dyke Road on the Village Green, Setauket Web site: www.carolinechurch.net Parish Office email: office@carolinechurch.net (631) 941–4245

Sunday Services: 8:00 am, 9:30 am and 11:15 am Church School/Child Care at 9:30 am Church School classes now forming. Call 941-4245 for registration Weekday Holy Eucharist’s: Thursday 12:30 pm and First Fri. of the month 7:30 pm (rotating: call Parish Oﬃce for location) Youth, Music and Service Programs oﬀered CHRISTMAS SERVICES Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24th Please note our new Service times 5:00 p.m. Children’s Service Festal Holy Eucharist Rite II - Youth & Teen Choirs

8:00 p.m. Festal Holy Eucharist Rite II - Adult Choir 10:00 p.m. Festal Holy Eucharist Rite II - Adult Choir Christmas Day, Friday, December 25th 10:00 a.m. Festal Holy Eucharist, Rite II - with Christmas Hymns Let God walk with you as part of our family–friendly community.

EPISCOPAL CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 127 Barnum Ave., Port Jefferson (631) 473–0273 email: ccoffice@christchurchportjeff.org www.christchurchportjeff.org

Father Anthony DiLorenzo: Priest–In–Charge Sunday Eucharist: 8 am and 10 am/Wednesday 10 in our chapel Sunday School and Nursery at 9:30 am Our ministries: Welcome Inn on Mondays at 5:45 pm AA meetings on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm/Prayer Group on Wednesdays at 10:30 am/Bible Study on Thursdays at 10 am. It is the mission of the people of Christ Church to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ and to make his love known to all through our lives and ministry. We at Christ Church are a joyful, welcoming community. Wherever you are in your journey of life we want to be part of it.

EVANGELICAL THREE VILLAGE CHURCH Knowing Christ...Making Him Known

322 Route 25A, East Setauket • (631) 941–3670 www.3vc.org

Lead Pastor Josh Moody Sunday Worship Schedule 9:15 am:Worship Service Sunday School (Pre–K – Adult), Nursery 10:30 am: Bagel/Coﬀee Fellowship 11:00 am: Worship, Nursery, Pre–K, Cornerstone Kids (Gr. K–4) We oﬀer weekly Teen Programs, Small Groups, Women’s Bible Studies (day & evening) & Men’s Bible Study Faith Nursery School for ages 3 & 4 Join us as we celebrate 55 years of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ!

GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION

430 Sheep Pasture Rd., Port Jefferson 11777 Tel: 631-473-0894 • Fax: 631-928-5131 www.kimisis.org • goc.assumption@gmail.com

Rev. Demetrios N. Calogredes, Protopresbyter Sunday Services Orthros 8:30 am - Devine Liturgy 10 am CHRISTMAS EVE 2015-Orthros 6 pm, Divine Liturgy 7 pm Services conducted in both Greek & English* Books available to follow in English* Sunday Catechism School, 10:15 am - 11:15 am* Greek Language School, Tuesdays 5 pm - 8 pm* Bible Study & Adult Catechism Classes Available* Golden Age & Youth Groups* Thrift Store* Banquet Hall available for Rental* For information please call Church oﬃce*

JEWISH CHABAD AT STONY BROOK “Judaism with a smile”

Future site: East side of Nicolls Rd, North of Rte 347 –Next to Fire Dept. Current location: 821 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove

(631) 585–0521 • (800) My–Torah • www.ChabadSB.com Rabbi Chaim & Rivkie Grossbaum Rabbi Motti & Chaya Grossbaum Rabbi Sholom B. & Chanie Cohen Membership Free •Weekday, Shabbat & Holiday Services Highly acclaimed Torah Tots Preschool • Afternoon Hebrew School Camp Gan Israel • Judaica Publishing Department • Lectures and Seminars • Living Legacy Holiday Programs Jewish Learning Institute Friendship Circle for Special Needs Children • The CTeen Network N’shei Chabad Women’s Club • Cyberspace Library www.ChabadSB.com Chabad at Stony Brook University – Rabbi Adam & Esther Stein

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A17

Religious

D irectory

JEWISH

LUTHERAN–LCMS

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

CORAM JEWISH CENTER

MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP AT STONY BROOK

Young Israel of Coram 981 Old Town Rd., Coram • (631) 698–3939 YIC.org – YoungIsraelofCoram@gmail.com

RABBI DR. MORDECAI & MARILYN GOLSHEVSKY RABBI SAM & REBECCA GOLSHEVSKY

“THE ETERNAL FLAME–THE ETERNAL LIGHT” Weekly Channel #20 at 11 am Shabbat Morning Services 9 am Free Membership. No building fund. Free Hebrew School. Bar/Bat Mitzvah Shabbat and Holiday Services followed by hot buffet. Adult Education Institute. Women’s Education Group–International Lectures and Torah Study. Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Kaballah Classes. Jewish Holiday Institute. Tutorials for all ages. FREE HEBREW SCHOOL 2015–2016 Details (631)698–3939 Member National Council of Young Israel a world–wide organization. All welcome regardless of knowledge or observance level.

NORTH SHORE JEWISH CENTER

385 Old Town Rd., Port Jefferson Station (631) 928–3737 www.NorthShoreJewishCenter.org Rabbi Aaron Benson

Cantor Daniel Kramer, Rabbi Emeritus Howard Hoffman Executive Director Marcie Platkin Services: Daily morning and evening minyan Friday at 8 pm; Saturday 8:45 am and one hour before sundown • Tot Shabbat Family Kehillah • Sisterhood • Men’s Club • Seniors Club • Youth Group Award–winning Religious School • Teen Community Service Program Nursery School • Mommy and Me • Preschool Summer Program Continuing Ed • Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Judaica Shop Thrift Shop • Kosher Catering Panel We warmly welcome you to our Jewish home. Come worship, study and enjoy being Jewish with our caring NSJC family. Member United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

TEMPLE ISAIAH (REFORM)

1404 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook • (631) 751–8518 A warm and caring intergenerational community dedicated to learning, prayer, social action, and friendship.

Rabbi Sharon L. Sobel Cantor Michael F. Trachtenberg Emeritus Cantor Scott Harris Rabbi Emeritus Stephen A. Karol Rabbi Emeritus Adam D. Fisher

Member Union for Reform Judaism Sabbath Services Friday 7:30 pm and Saturday 10 am Monthly Family Service • Monthly Tot Shabbat • Religious School Youth Groups • Senior Club • Adult Education • Chavurah Groups • Early AM Studies • Sisterhood • Brotherhood • PT

LUTHERAN–ELCA ST. PAULS LUTHERAN CHURCH

309 Patchogue Road, Port Jefferson Station (631)473–7157

Rev. Paul A. Downing, Pastor email: pastorpauldowning@yahoo.com • pastors cell: 347–423–3623 church website: wwwStPaulsLCPJS.org Services Sundays – 8:30 am and 10:30 am Holy Communion Bibles and Bagels 9:30 am Sunday School during 10:30 am service Wednesday Evening 7:30 pm – Holy Communion Friday Morning Power of Prayer Hour 10:30 am ~ All are Welcome ~

465 Pond Path, East Setauket (631)751-1775 www.messiahny.com

Rev. Charles Bell - Pastor We welcome all to join us for worship & fellowship Sunday Worship Services 8:15am, 9:30am & 11:00am Sunday School at 9:30 am Midweek Tuesday Advent Service 6:15 pm, December 8 & 15 Midweek Wednesday Advent Service 11 am, December 9 & 16 Christmas Eve5:30pm-Candlelight Family • 8pm-Candlelight Traditional Christmas Day 10am • New Year’s Eve 7:30pm NYS Certified Preschool & Day Care Program Please call for details

METHODIST BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 33 Christian Ave/ PO2117 E. Setauket NY 11733 (631)941 3581 Rev. Gregory L. Leonard–Pastor

Sunday Worship 10:30 am Adult Sunday School 9:30 am Lectionary Reading and Prayer Wed. 12 noon Gospel Choir Tues. 8 pm Praise Choir and Youth Choir 3rd and 4th Fri. 6:30 pm

COMMACK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 486 Townline Road, Commack Church Office: (631)499–7310 Fax: (631) 858–0596 www.commack–umc.org • mail@commack–umc.org Rev. Linda Bates–Stepe, Pastor

380 Nicolls Road • between Rte 347 & Rte 25A (631) 751–0297 • www.uufsb.org • oﬃce@uufsb.org

Rev. Margaret H. Allen (minister@uufsb.org) Sunday Service: 10:30 am

Religious Education at UUFSB: Unitarian Universalism accepts wisdom from many sources and oﬀers non-dogmatic religious education for children from 3-18 to foster ethical and spiritual development and knowledge of world religions. Classes Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. Childcare for little ones under three. Senior High Youth Group meetings Sunday evenings. Registration is ongoing. For more information: dre@uufsb.org.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF HUNTINGTON

109 Brown’s Road, Huntington, NY 11743 631–427–9547 www.uufh.org

Rev. G. Jude Geiger, Minister

(minister@uufh.org) Starr Austin, religious educator (dreuufh@gmail.com) Sunday Service 10:30 am, Children’s Religious Education 10:30 am CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES Family Service 5 pm: Christmas pageant with youth choir, intergenerational orchestra and candle lighting. Contemplative Service 7 pm: With candle lighting, choir and string quartet. Whoever you are, whomever you love, wherever you are on your life’s journey, you are welcome here. Our services offer a progressive, non-creedal message with room for spiritual seekers. Services and Religious Education each Sunday at 10:30 am Youth Group, Lifespan Religious Education for Adults, Adult and Children’s Choirs Participants in the Huntington Interfaith Housing Initiative Find us on Facebook and Twitter

SETAUKET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

UNITY

Rev. Sandra B. Mantz, Pastor

UNITY CHURCH OF HEALING LIGHT

PRESBYTERIAN

Unity Church of Healing Light is committed to helping people unfold their Christ potential to transform their lives and build spiritual community through worship, education, prayer and service. Sunday Worship & Church School 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Service 7:30 p.m. Sign Language Interpreter at Sunday Service

160 Main Street, Corner of 25A and Main Street East Setauket • (631) 941–4167

www.setauketumc.org • SUMCNY@aol.com Sunday Worship Service & Church School 10 am 10 am Worship with Holy Communion Mary & Martha Circle (Women’s Ministry) monthly on 2nd Tuesday at noon Adult Bible Study Sunday 8 am Prayer Group and Bible Study at the Church Wednesdays 10 am

203 East Pulaski Rd., Huntington Sta. (631) 385–7180 www.unityhuntingtonny.org

Rev. Saba Mchunguzi

SETAUKET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

5 Caroline Avenue ~ On the Village Green (631) 941-4271 www.setauketpresbyterian.org Email: setauketpresbyterian@verizon.net

REV. MARY BARRETT SPEERS, PASTOR

Sunday Morning Worship at 9:30 am With Childcare & Children’s Church School Advent Schedule: Dec. 13: Selections from Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit SPC Choir, Soloists and Orchestra, 9:30 am Dec. 20th: Children’s Christmas Pageant, 9:30 am Joy Oﬀering Christmas Eve Schedule: Family “Manger” Service at 4:30pm, with Blessing of Animals Welcome INN dinner at 5:45 pm Worship Service at 7:30 pm • Singing of the Hallelujah Chorus Youth Group Alumni Party at 9:00 pm in the Parlor Candlelight Service with Communion at 11:00 pm

To be listed in the Religious Directory, please call 751–7663

To Subscribe: Please Call 631.751.7744 or Subscribe online at www.TBRNEWSMEDIA.com

PAGE A18 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

OPINION Holiday cheer

Photo from Susan Eckert

County GOP lawmakers speak at a press conference.

EDITORIAL

GOP’s ‘cop monitor’ worth considering Suffolk County Republicans assembled at the Legislature building last week to call for a federal monitor to oversee our county police department. They argued that a recent indictment of former Police Chief James Burke was a tipping point, proving that county government could not be trusted to operate independently without supervision. They also cited County Executive Steve Bellone’s appointment of Tim Sini to replace Burke as key evidence supporting their pleas, accusing him of not having enough experience to do the job at the level the county needs. We don’t disagree with the Suffolk County GOP in saying that the federal government should consider monitoring the county’s police department to make sure it is adequately protecting us and that the taxpayer dollars funding it are being well spent. There should be a monitor — but not solely for the reasons our Republican lawmakers have outlined. There are plenty of other issues concerning the Suffolk County Police Department that a federal monitor could help alleviate. For starters, we have editorialized in the past about the department’s ongoing relationship woes with the greater Hispanic community, which has had a public spotlight for the last several years. The department has taken some steps to address this issue, but a lot more can be done. A federal monitor could also make sure our department utilizes its resources appropriately at a time when many elected officials argue that patrols are being stretched too thin and officers are overworked. Better management of resources could also mean better enforcement of the county’s gang population and fight against drug abuse. As much as we might cringe at the idea of “more government” — especially on the federal level — it would be better than nothing.

TO THE EDITOR: I wish to thank everyone from the St. James Roman Catholic Church, especially the Religious Education Department, who, once again, provided a beautiful Christmas dinner for all the residents of Echo Arms on the grounds of their church on Dec. 13. Providing their own transportation to and from Echo Arms in Port Jefferson Station, the residents were treated to a sumptuous Christmas dinner and generous gifts — every one of them. This is a tradition that has been going on for as long as I can remember. If ever there was an act in the true spirit of Christmas, it is this festive dinner. In the true tradition of St. James — and, of course, Jesus — this is a reflection of the church’s historic commitment to the poor, the elderly, the orphaned and widowed. Wishing you all blessings for a merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. Harry Katz Echo Arms staff Port Jefferson Station

File photo

The St. James Roman Catholic Church is located on Route 25A in East Setauket.

got an opinion? discuss it @ tbrnewsmedia.com

World is at a critical moment on AIDS TO THE EDITOR: We have come a long way in the fight against HIV/AIDS — since the Millennium Development Goals were first adopted in 2000 through 2013, new HIV infections have fallen by roughly 40 percent. But the HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to affect millions of people around the world and in the United States, with marginalized communities disproportionately impacted and millions newly infected each year. In some of the hardest hit areas globally, adolescent girls and young women face poverty, gender inequality, exclusion, discrimina-

tion, lack of education and violence, which put them at increased risk of acquiring HIV. Many don’t realize that Planned Parenthood is a leading educator and provider of HIV testing in the United States. In 2013 alone, the last year for which data is available, Planned Parenthood health centers provided 704,000 HIV tests nationwide. In 2014, Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic health centers and SmartWheels mobile education and testing vans provided 13,100 rapid HIV tests in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam and Suffolk counties. Yet rather than supporting such needed efforts to end the epidemic in our community, we anticipate that anti-women’s health members of Congress will continue to push for

Letters …

a policy rider that defunds Planned Parenthood in the next round of budget negotiations. Defunding Planned Parenthood really means taking health care — including testing and treatment for STIs like HIV — away from the 2.7 million women, men and young people Planned Parenthood serves each year. I encourage you to #StandWithPP and support efforts to end HIV/AIDS. Now is the time to move forward, not backward, on this issue that has impacted so many millions around the world. Let’s protect our progress and double down on our efforts to end this epidemic. Reina Schiffrin Planned Parenthood Hawthorne, N.Y.

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 for confirmation. Email letters to rohma@tbrnewspapers.com or mail them to The Village Times, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733.

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

DECEMBER 24, 2015 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • PAGE A19

Preparing to close the book on 2015

D. None of the above by DaNiel DuNaief

vtimes@tbrnewspapers.com

here we are at the Baseball Hall of Fame. And, look, remember that time mom ran into Mets pitcher Noah Syndergaard on the street and got a selfie with him. Speaking of selfies, how about that one of our nephew who ran into Celtics’ basketball player David Lee in Boston? Yes, every year, we produce

countless photographic memories, capturing the moment. Those pictures may be worth a thousand words — and more. I’m talking about our other senses. We have this incredible evolutionary gift that enables us to experience our lives, to appreciate and understand what’s happening now beyond just seeing a video, or flipping or clicking through a photo album. At some point we’ve all lost someone we love. We can look at pictures, visit their graves and listen to their favorite songs. But the experience, at least for me, of remembering how they spoke or what they said breathes life into that memory. Despite growing up in Manhattan, my Aunt Maxine developed a Jimmy Durante way of speaking. “Hey, you!” she’d shout at me from across the room. “Did yah remembuh? It’s my boithday soon and ya gotta get me a cake and a watch.” Shorter than most adults,

Aunt Maxine, who died several years ago, was so much more than her small frame. Yes, she flooded the airwaves at times with a deep voice that could seem like a jackhammer. And yet she could charm a Mona Lisa-type smile out of the most hesitant of audiences. My first thought is not of her stature, but the gift of her humor and of the back scratches she shared with her small, soft hands. As we prepare to close the book on 2015, it’s worth going beyond the pictures of experiences, victories, defeats and challenging moments to celebrate our senses. I recently attended a holiday party where a couple described in savory details the taste of a seven-fish stew they eat every year at Christmas. A relative who died long ago used to make it for their family. Not only do they appreciate the flavor, but they also use the taste to reconnect with their ancestors who

left Italy long ago. When we look at that picture of ourselves at a baseball game, we can and should remember the sun that peaked through the clouds, warming the backs of our necks. Even if we don’t eat the hot dogs, we can bask in the connection between that smell and those times we sat high in the seats at a baseball stadium, waiting for the hot dog vendor to place those warm meals wrapped in napkins in our mitts, which we refused to remove in case a foul ball came our way. When we see that picture of our daughter in the dress she bought for a party, let’s allow the squeal she let out when she found the perfect outfit to echo in our minds. If you’re lucky and your daughter shares an excited sound, does a triumphant dance or expresses a joy that resonates throughout her body, you know how those movements or sounds make you feel.

Those pictures may be worth a thousand words — and more.

It’s probably something akin to how mother penguins, who have left their young for days on end to hunt for fish, react when they return to the familiar call of their young. Or, maybe, we’ll take a moment to relive the way we bent over double, laughing with our wives and kids, about something ridiculous we said just before we got out of the car. Wonderful as the pictures of each year are, they’re the tip of the sensory iceberg of the experiences we shared in 2015. Daniel Dunaief’s recent book, “The Other Parent,” may be purchased online from www.tbrnewsmedia.com/ebooks.

The frenetic age of instantaneous news feeds

between you and me by leah S. DuNaief

vtimes@tbrnewspapers.com

hatever else we may be feeling right now, it is safe to generalize that we are not bored. Aside from the usual holiday frenzy, as we get our homes, our pets, our refrigerators and pantries, ourselves and our shopping lists ready, we are overwhelmed by more issues at this year’s end than I can ever remember. Maybe it has to do with our instantaneous news feeds that make us aware of what’s going on. But I think that we are living in a frenetic age.

Where to start? Certainly, terrorism has occupied center stage in the minds of Americans. Worse — and more frightening than attacks from outside — is the demonstrable possibility of random homicide from within, from Americans or those who have settled among us and been “radicalized,” a polite word for psychopath. For how else can one characterize those who would commit mass murder to make a statement? Continuing on, in no particular order, there is the fierce debate about guns and their easy availability in our country. Probably the most extraordinary line I have heard on the subject: “If Jews in Europe had had guns, there never would have been a Holocaust.” The presidential race, started way before the actual election, has become an excellent source of entertainment as spectator sport for the public and high ratings for the TV stations. Top banana is surely Donald Trump, who is clearly having the time of his life mocking his GOP colleagues and those of the opposition party,

especially Hillary Clinton. Just think: If this were a movie, people would never believe it could happen, this New Yorker leading the pack by insulting everyone in sight. He may even be the catalyst for a new detente with Russia. Putin really likes him and vice versa. Maybe he gives Putin something more interesting to watch on his own TV at home at night than the censored news the Russian people are served up. How probable that a candidate in Russia would be able to say the one-liners Trump offers each day, starting with his opinion of his president? Then there is the grave matter of police brutality, which is framed in large part by the issue of racism in America. No sooner is there a police shooting in one state than there is another in another state, equally distributed between North and South, East and West. The only redeeming feature is the outrage and immediate investigations such events engender. But how helpful those reactions are remains to be seen. We must keep the spotlight on them.

TIMES BEacon rEcord nEWS MEdIa

We welcome letters, photographs, comments and story ideas. Send your items to PO Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733 or email to beacon@tbrnewspapers.com. Times Beacon Record Newspapers are published every Thursday. Subscription $49/year • 631–751–7744 www.tbrnewsmedia.com • Contents copyright 2015

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Leah S. Dunaief GENERAL MANAGER Johness Kuisel MANAGING EDITOR Phil Corso EDITOR Desirée Keegan

Immigration has become a major flash point, having moved from Mexican youngsters crossing over in large enough numbers to overwhelm the border patrol to Syrians and others from the Middle East desperately seeking asylum from the bombings and atrocities currently perpetrated on civilian populations. We are living in a time with the greatest migration of peoples since World War II displaced millions. And how are we to judge the authenticity of each person coming into America? By the same token, do we discriminate on the basis of ethnicity or religion? Have we learned nothing from the past century? Immigration is an even more acute issue across the Atlantic since Europe is a geographically closer destination than the United States. Thousands have abandoned their homelands, taking little more than their children and the clothes on their backs to try and make a better life in the northern countries. Some have perished along the way. Fences have gone

LEISURE EDITOR Heidi Sutton SPORTS EDITOR Desirée Keegan ONLINE EDITOR Elana Glowatz

Top banana is surely Donald Trump.

up to prevent their entrance, threatening the basic tenets of the European Union amid the countries’ inability to cope. Partly underlying resistance to the newcomers is the fear of admitting further terrorists. Meanwhile we continue bombing Syria. So does Russia. So does France. So does a reported Middle Eastern coalition led by Saudi Arabia. No wonder mistakes are being made as people are killed who are not the intended targets. There must be almost as many different nationalities of planes in the air as people on the ground, trying to escape. What a mess. For the moment, we here can do little more than pull our families closely around us and remember how lucky we are as we reach out to help others. No, we are not bored, just overwhelmed. May we see peace in our time.

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kathryn Mandracchia ART AND PRODUCTION DIRECTOR David R. Leaman INTERNET STRATEGY DIRECTOR Rob Alfano

CLASSIFIEDS DIRECTOR Ellen Segal BUSINESS MANAGER Sandi Gross CREDIT MANAGER Diane Wattecamps CIRCULATION MANAGER Courtney Biondo

PAGE A20 • THE VILLAGE BEACON RECORD • DECEMBER 24, 2015

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