The Village Times Herald - November 17, 2022

PHOTO BY MICHELLE JABLONSKY

Holiday Electric Parade returns Dec. 11

The Three Village Electric Parade Committee is lighting up the holidays with the annual Three Village Holiday Electric Parade.

This year the holiday floats will light up Route 25A in Setauket on Sunday, Dec. 11 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Come see a spectacular display of dazzling lights, holiday themes, and of course, Santa!

Families, schools, clubs, teams, businesses, and organizations are all welcome to make this

year the best year yet! Show your enthusiasm and creativity to spread holiday cheer and lift local spirits by joining the festivities.

To register your float and for more information please email info@3vholidayparade.com or contact Denise Williams at 631-828-9031.

Let’s brighten everyone’s holidays with a safe and joyous night of lights, music, and family fun!

Setauket turns out to honor veterans

BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

Despite weather forecasters calling for rain, Setauket residents showed up for veterans on Friday, Nov. 11.

In an abbreviated ceremony to avoid the pending bad weather, Veterans of

Foreign Wars Post 3054 hosted its annual recognition service at the Setauket Veterans Memorial Park at the corner of Shore Road and Route 25A in East Setauket.

Scouts and veterans laid wreaths at the memorial that recognizes the various wars American soldiers have fought in.

— Photos by Rita J. Egan

Veterans nonprofit organizes events to raise funds for expenses

BY SERENA CARPINO DESK@TBRNEWMEDIA.COM

For the past few years, Stony Brook resident Rena Sylvester has helped veterans throughout Suffolk County through her organization Cooking For Long Island Veterans.

MOVER & SHAKER

Recently, CFLIV has expanded the number of events it offers to raise funds to cover expenses and possible future expansion. One of those events was held Oct. 9, as more than 50 runners and walkers took part in a 5K at Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown.

Though it began as a school club, CFLIV is now a nonprofit food pantry dedicated to helping homebound veterans on Long Island. Every week veterans receive three breakfasts, three lunches, three dinners and lots of snacks. The meals are provided by restaurants and volunteers who cook in certified kitchens.

One of the volunteers is Karen Fazio, president of the Setauket Fire Department Auxiliary. She said she is always looking for the auxiliary to do something for the community. She saw CFLIV on Facebook and mentioned it to the auxiliary members, a couple of whom decided to volunteer with her.

Fazio said during her time volunteering she has done a bit of everything from cooking, packing up meals and delivering them to the veterans.

“It’s very rewarding no matter which job you do,” she said.

The volunteer said when she drops off meals sometimes she’ll have time to stay and

talk a while with the veterans. She said some don’t have families so the work the nonprofit does is an important one.

Sylvester, a retired home economics teacher who comes from a military family, said she started CFLIV “by accident.” During her career at East Islip school district, she created a club that mailed care packages to deployed members of the military. Sylvester and her students sent packages to many local soldiers, including those belonging to the 106th Rescue Wing in Westhampton and the 1st Marine Corps District in Garden City. In the beginning, they would prepare very simple meals. However, in later years the club started receiving food from restaurants, including the Rolling Pin bakery in East Setauket. This allowed Sylvester to prepare more inviting meals.

In February of 2019, the organization began to expand.

“I was going on vacation, and there was a Korean War veteran that was complaining about the meals he was getting [from another organization],” Sylvester said. “So, I brought him a couple of meals.”

Soon, the pandemic hit and many people were concerned about food provision for veterans. At the time, “I had just stopped working at a homeless shelter for veterans, so I knew veterans in need. So, it kind of blossomed out of that,” she said.

Currently, CFLIV feeds 45 veterans around Long Island. Veterans in need have been recommended to the nonprofit by social workers from the VA.

Along with the increased numbers of veterans served, CFLIV receives help from

local restaurants, such as Bliss, Elegant Eating and Panico’s Community Market. In addition, the VFW posts in Rocky Point, Lake Ronkonkoma and Patchogue allow volunteers to use their kitchens.

In addition to the recent 5K run, the nonprofit has organized other fundraisers to raise much-needed money. Earlier this year, CFLIV held a bourbon night, which Sylvester described as “a smashing success.”

A car show was held in October, also a cigar night with a raw seafood bar. In November to date, there has been a murder mystery dinner, while the organization has also participated in the 247th Marine Corps Birthday Ball.

It is still difficult to raise enough money to cover expenses. “We pay a cleaning woman, we pay two insurance policies, we have to buy certain things, we have utilities … it’s mostly donations,” Sylvester said.

To help pay bills, CFLIV asks veterans above a certain income level to pay a weekly donation of $10 to $20. In comparison, Sylvester explained, other organizations charge a few dollars per day. However, veterans sometimes find it difficult to pay. The nonprofit will still provide meals to them.

Other problems include lack of driver volunteers, breakfast foods and containers. Sylvester said they are always looking for help, whether it’s buying supplies, picking up food or delivering to veterans.

In spite of these challenges, Sylvester is continuing to hold events and increase volunteer involvement in CFLIV.

“One of the reasons we’re having the fundraisers is because we are going to be working with either the town [Brookhaven] or county officials,” she said. To increase operations, “we’re interested in getting an abandoned building, but nobody’s going to give us a pristine abandoned building.”

Sylvester’s goal is to raise $100,000 before they begin to look for a building.

“We’re going to need staff, we’re going to need insurance, we’re going to have some serious bills,” she said.

So far, all the work by CFLIV volunteers has paid off, and the organization has received help from other food donation organizations on Long Island. Recently, CFLIV became a member of Feeding America and food rescue program Island Harvest.

CFLIV is also a food rescue program. “As much as feeding veterans is important, rescue food is a very, very close second,” Sylvester said. “I love when volunteers take food. I love when we can give stuff to the VFW. Sometimes I do go to the Marine Corps League, and when I do I bring them all this stuff and they go home with a loaf of bread and they love it.”

For more information, visit the website cooking4livets.com.

Additional reporting by Rita J. Egan.

At a recent 5K event at Blydenburgh County Park, runners came out to raise funds for Cooking for Long Island Veterans, above. Below, Three Village fourth-grade student Mia Goldin used what she learned during the district’s Summer Enrichment Program to prepare French toast for Cooking for Long Island Veterans. Photo above by Rita J. Egan; photo below from Three Village Central School District

Flood nears victory in Assembly District 4, outcome still not confirmed

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

A week has passed since Election Day, and the race for New York State Assembly District 4 has yet to be called. However, the Republican Party challenger Edward Flood, of Port Jefferson, appears to be on the brink of an upset.

As of press time, Flood maintains a 51-49% margin over incumbent state Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket). With remaining votes outstanding and the outcome still undetermined, Englebright — who is current chair of the Assembly’s important Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation — declined to comment for this story.

In a phone interview on Tuesday evening, Flood gave an update on the remaining ballots. As of press time, Flood held a 973-vote lead with tallies of 23,707-22,734, according to the Suffolk County Board of Elections. Flood said roughly 1,100 absentee and affidavit ballots remain uncounted.

“I’ve been told it’s mathematically improbable but not impossible for me to lose,” he said. “It’s unofficial, but it’s looking like I have this.”

Even so, Flood has yet to declare victory in the race. He said he would prefer to let the process play out. “I haven’t formally said I won, but I’m hoping that as of tomorrow, we have

some more definitive answers,” the Republican candidate said.

Initial reports of Flood’s prospective victory surprised many within the community. Englebright has held that seat since 1992, and before entering the state Assembly, had represented the area in the Suffolk County Legislature starting in 1983. Flood said he was not necessarily surprised by the outcome.

“For my campaign team, this wasn’t a shock,” he said. “We did some polling and we knew we were right there.” He added, “I understand why people outside my camp would call it a shock. Steve’s been there for a really long time … so I don’t discount the magnitude of what happened,

but it wasn’t a shock to my team.”

If Flood is declared the victor in the coming days, he said he would like to begin the transition, starting with a discussion with his election opponent.

“I would like to have a conversation with Steve, if he would be willing to — and I think he’s a standup guy and I think he would — to kind of let me know what specific constituent problems they have,” Flood said. “We’ve reached out to a lot of the civics, and I’d like to sit with them and get some ideas … and just get

LEGALS

ofNewYork(SSNY)on filedwithSecretaryofState PINELAWNLLC.ArtsofOrg. Noticeofformationof

09/08/2022.Officelocation:SuffolkCounty.SSNY

copyoftheprocesstothe served.SSNYshallmaila processagainstitmaybe agentoftheLLCuponwhom hasbeendesignatedas

LLC:2100NesconsetHighway#1023,StonyBrook,NY

purpose. 11790.Purpose:Anylawful

11075010/136xvth

ELECTION2023 VILLAGEOFOLDFIELD

thefollowingresolutions 2022,unanimouslyadopted onTuesday,November8, Boarddulycalledandheld Yorkatameetingofsaid Field,SuffolkCounty,New IncorporatedVillageofOld TheBoardofTrusteesofthe

pertainingtotheregistrationofallpersonseligibleto

Tuesday,March21,2023: Electiontobeheldon filledattheannualVillage voteandtheofficestobe

benoVillageregistration RESOLVED ,thatthereshall

a feel of what each community is looking for from me.”

He also said he plans to coordinate with the law enforcement community to understand the challenges experienced on the ground. He expressed his intent to “speak with law enforcement and get the best plan for how to address some of the issues with criminal justice reform that I think are just not working right now.” To his possible constituency, Flood offered to maintain an open-door policy. He emphasized community outreach and maintaining close contact with community members.

“My job is to represent the people in the district, whether they voted for me or didn’t vote for me,” he said. “I’m not saying I don’t have some ideas, but I want this to be clear that I’m going to represent them and the interests of our community up in Albany.”

To follow the election results as the final ballots are counted, visit the website www. elections.ny.gov under “Suffolk County Election Night Results,” then scroll down to “New York Assembly AD#4.”

If the loss of Englebright’s seat is confirmed, TBR News Media plans to conduct an exit interview marking the end of his term.

To Place A Legal Notice

Section15-118oftheElectionLaw,and

FURTHERRESOLVED ,that

onlythosepersonsregisteredtovotewiththeBoard

vote,and Countyshallbeeligibleto ofElectionsofSuffolk

March21,2023,thatthe saidVillageonTuesday, at207OldFieldPlacein theKeeper’sCottagelocated NewYork,shallbeheldat OldField,SuffolkCounty, theIncorporatedVillageof thenextgeneralelectionfor FURTHERRESOLVED ,that

hoursofopeningandclosingthepollsthereofshallbe

respectivelyandthatduring 12:00noonand9:00P.M.

suchperiodofnineconsecutivehoursthepollsshallbe

followingofficers: choosingandelectingthe keptopenforthepurposeof

eachforatermoftwoyears TwoTrusteepositions,

followingbe,andtheyare RESOLVED ,thatthe

hereby,designatedandappointedtoactasInspectors

Schraut,Chairpersonand Chairpersonthereof:Carol CarolSchrautpresidingas $160.00perperson,with

MarianneFeller.

pursuanttoSubdivision3of dayforVillageelections 11172011/171xvth

prepareapropernoticeof andherebyisdirectedto theClerkoftheVillagebe, FURTHERRESOLVED ,that

saidannualelectionpursuanttoSection15-104ofthe

whichthepollsshallbe place;thehoursduring electionandthepolling containingthedateofthe insaidVillageTimes saidnoticetobepublished ElectionLawandtocause

open;thenamesandaddressesofallthosewho

daybeforesaidelection. theVillageatleastone(1) leastsix(6)publicplacesin postedconspicuouslyinat printedcopythereoftobe upon,ifany,andtocausea anypropositiontobevoted nominated,anabstractof forwhichtheyhavebeenso andthetermofsuchoffice filedwithsaidVillageClerk ofnominationhasbeenduly whosecertificateofpetition havebeendulynominated

Email: legals@tbrnewsmedia.com ofElectionforafeeof

From left, state Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), and Edward Flood. File photos by Raymond Janis

Obituaries

Edward McGrain

Edward William McGrain, age 92, of Stony Brook, passed away on Monday, Nov. 7. He was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine McGrain.

As a child, Edward grew up as an orphan in 13 different homes. He joined the U.S. Army and served our country for four years in the Korean War.

Working during the day and going to school at night, he went on to complete his bachelor’s degree from Fordham University in New York. He was employed as a probation officer in Suffolk County where he was well liked as he served his community until his retirement.

In his younger years, Edward really enjoyed playing baseball. He was also a fan of watching or playing golf and tennis. As a father, he was active in coaching and supporting his two sons in all their endeavors. Edward was meticulous in making daily entries in a diary for 30

years, logging meals, the weather and other important events of the day. He was an avid reader of history with Thomas Jefferson being among his biggest heroes. Edward also enjoyed listening to classical music. Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Charles Joseph McGrain and Matthew McGrain (Dawn); granddaughters, Cassidy Rae McGrain and Hailey Madeline McGrain Reeves (Peyton); sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Green; and his former wife, Carol McGrain.

The family received friends on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at Nelsen Funeral Home in Ashland, Virginia. A private burial followed at Quantico National Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www. NelsenAshland.com for the McGrain family.

— Photo from McGrain’s family

Harry T. Dawkins

Harry Thomas Dawkins, of Setauket, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on Nov. 9.

Born on July 17, 1945, he was the son of Mary and Bertram Dawkins. Harry is survived by his wife, Kathleen Dawkins; his son Jonathan Dawkins; his stepchildren Daphne Fitzpatrick and their partner Johanna Phelps and Rachel Weissmann and her husband John Owen; and step-grandchildren Elias Owen, Oona Owen, Fitz Phelps and August Phelps.

He is also survived by his twin sister Margaret, sister Lillian, and brother Bertram (also known as Bud). He was the beloved uncle to Bonnie Dawkins, Peter Dawkins and Nancy Dawkins-Pisani.

Harry was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving in the Navy’s Special Services Group with the Patrol Boat Rivers from 1963 to

1967. He received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. After his Honorable Discharge, he returned home to Long Island and continued his career on the water ever since.

A man of many talents and known for his ability to make friends with anybody, he is well known for his time with the Captree Boat Basin as the captain of the Yankee III and the Port Jefferson Ferry and Marina. Whether it was working the docks or spending time with his many close friends, it would not be taking liberties to say, “Harry Dawkins was the mayor of Port Jeff.”

Visitation will be held at Bryant Funeral Home, 411 Old Town Road, East Setauket on Nov. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. with a service on Nov. 21 at 10:30 a.m. followed by internment at Calverton National Cemetery

— Photo from Dawkins’ family

Suffolk County cyberattack offers a window into

BY RAYMOND JANIS EDITOR1@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

The recent ransomware attack against the Suffolk County government has raised important questions about the relationship between citizens, governments and technologies.

A confirmed ransomware event took place in early September. The hack crippled the county’s information technology infrastructure, and recovery efforts remain ongoing.

In the wake of these events, the hack prompted critics to question the digitization of sensitive information and how governments can better secure their IT networks.

What is ransomware?

Nick Nikiforakis is an associate professor in the Department of Computer Science at Stony Brook University. His research focuses on web security and privacy. In an interview, he described how ransomware works.

“Ransomware is, effectively, malicious software that infiltrates a machine, starts encrypting all sorts of private documents, spreadsheets, anything that is of value, and then leaks out to the attacker the encryption key and potentially the data that was encrypted,” he said.

Some forms of ransomware affect only a single machine, according to Nikiforakis. Other strains may spread into several devices, potentially infecting an entire network.

Ransomware is the confirmed vector of attack for Suffolk County. However, how hackers first entered the county’s system is unknown to the public.

While the details of the county hack are scanty, Nikiforakis said cyberattackers commonly use emails with malicious attachments. In other instances, they can locate vulnerable software within a network, exploit that weakness and breach that system. Once hackers gain access to the system, they hold sensitive information for ransom.

“The original idea behind ransomware is that if you don’t pay the attacker the money that they ask, then you lose access to your data,” Nikiforakis said.

Backup software was developed, in part, to mitigate this concern. Regardless, as technologies have evolved, so has cybercrime.

“Even if you have the ability to restore your data from backups, now you have to deal with the attacker having access to your data and threatening you with making that data public, which is what’s happening in this case,” Nikiforakis said.

Based on the information available, Nikiforakis said the attackers likely gained access to speeding tickets and various titles, among other sensitive materials. “This is definitely a cause for concern, and that is why, in certain cases, people decide to pay, to avoid this blowback that will come from the data being made publicly available.”

A question of payment

Ransomware raises an ethical dilemma for government officials, namely whether to use public funds to pay a ransom.

“People can take a philosophical approach and say, ‘We don’t negotiate with terrorists,’ and I understand that,” Nikiforakis said, “But then the rational thing for the attacker to do is to make that data available to the public. Because if he doesn’t, then the next victim will also not pay him.”

The profitability of the ransomware operation depends upon the victim trusting that the criminals will comply with the conditions

dangers of

and other buffers that reduce the spread of a fire.

“If a fire starts, it doesn’t take down the whole complex. It stops at the masonry wall,” he said. “Our system was not configured with those hard breaks, other than some separation of function out in Riverhead in the County Clerk’s Office.”

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai), whose office was attacked by ransomware in 2017, has advocated for serious IT reform for some time. She followed the county’s technology closely and expressed frustration over how the initial attack occurred.

digital age

Preparing for the future

Toulon suggested the existing IT network is too centralized and interconnected. To prevent future failure of the entire network, he proposed creating separate silos for each department.

“I feel that the District Attorney’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, the [County] Clerk’s Office and the Comptroller’s Office should be totally separate from the County Executive’s Office,” Toulon said, “So if, god forbid, this were to happen again in the future, we wouldn’t be directly impacted like everyone else.”

Anker said she and a newly formed panel of county legislators are beginning to explore ways to harden the network and apply strategies that work elsewhere.

“As we move forward, we need to see what the other municipalities and corporations are doing,” she said. “What types of programs and software do they have that prevent these attacks?”

The rate of software development, according to Anker, is outpacing the ability of governments to respond effectively. While IT departments must remain ahead of the cybercriminals to keep their digital infrastructure safe, staying out front is easier said than done.

“Technology is moving so quickly that it is incredibly challenging for government to keep up,” she said. “I would like to see more accountability in all respects and from everyone as we move forward with new technology.”

of the transaction. The ransomware business model would fail if cyberattackers generally went against their word.

For this reason, Nikiforakis said payment and compliance could sometimes be in the interests of both parties.

“I think it’s a very rational decision to say, ‘Let’s pay and accept this as a financial loss and let’s make sure that this doesn’t happen again,’” he said.

In Suffolk County, however, putting this theoretical framework into action is more complicated. Responsibility for paying ransomware payments would be vested in the Office of the Comptroller, which oversees the county’s finances.

During an election interview last month with county Comptroller John Kennedy Jr. (R), he hinted that compromising with cybercriminals is off the table.

“There is no predicate in the charter, in the New York State County Law, in the Suffolk County code, to take taxpayer money and give it to a criminal,” he said.

The effect on the county’s government operations

The ransomware attack has also aggravated concerns over securing the county’s IT apparatus. Kennedy likened the problem to a fire code, saying fire codes often include provisions for masonry walls

“I could tell, and I could feel, that there needed to be more done,” she said. “It has hampered the government, it has affected our constituents. Maybe it could have been worse, but it should have never happened.”

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon Jr. (D) explained his office’s many challenges since the hack. Though communications systems are slowly returning online, the initial attack disrupted both external and internal communications within the Sheriff’s Office.

“From a jail and police perspective, it really hindered us in the beginning,” he said. “Emails that we received from other law enforcement agencies or any communication with our community was stopped for a significant amount of time.”

New York State’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency assisted the Sheriff’s Office as Toulon’s staff worked without an operational communication network. Because of this coordination, Toulon maintained that the functions of the jails were more or less appropriately executed.

“We wanted to make sure that any individual that was supposed to be released from our custody was released on time,” the county sheriff said. “No one was incarcerated longer than they had to be.”

While the recent cyberattack focuses on the government, Anker believes ordinary citizens are also at risk from hostile online actors. The county legislator contended more work should be done to alert community members of these dangers.

“Not enough is being done regarding community outreach,” she said. “There needs to be more education on preventing an attack even on your home computer.”

Nikiforakis proposed that greater attention be given to digitizing personal records. According to him, those records in the wrong hands could unleash great harm.

“Ransomware was a big game-changer for attackers because it allows them to monetize data that would not be traditionally monetizable,” he said. “Through ransomware, suddenly everything that is of value can be monetized.”

The SBU associate professor supports software upgrades, cybersecurity protocols and other measures that protect against ransomware. But, he said, a broader conversation needs to take place about the nature of digitization and whether individuals and governments should store sensitive files online.

“More and more things that didn’t used to be online are suddenly available online,” he said. “We have to reassess the eagerness with which we put everything online and see whether the convenience that we get out of these systems being online is a good return on investment, given the risks.”

‘Technology is moving so quickly that it is incredibly challenging for government to keep up.’

— Sarah Anker

the

the

Patriots coach on the road to the state championship

BY JOHN DIEHL HEAD COACH WARD MELVILLE GIRLS SOCCER

out to the feet of Mia Pirozzi, who scored the game winning goal.



Following the thrilling victory, Mia those defining moments of play.

Sports

Last weekend, the Ward Melville girls soccer team won its first state championship in program history. After defeating perennial powerhouse Massapequa in the Long Island Championship, Ward Melville traveled to Dryden, NY, to compete in the Class AA State semifinal against Monroe-Woodbury High School, a program use to success, winning backto-back state titles in 2018 and 2019.

This year’s state championship semifinal showdown would be played in rainy conditions. After a 0-0 draw at the end of regulation, the game went into “sudden victory” overtime.

Midway through the first overtime period, senior Grace Justiniano crossed a ball into the top of the penalty area. Sophomore Adri Victoriano pressured the Monroe-Woodbury goalkeeper as she tried to catch the ball, but the ball bounced

“Right place, right time,” she said. “I just happened to be there.”

The next day, the Patriots played Clarence High School in the final, where weather would once again be a significant factor, with snow, clouds, and sun taking turns sporadically throughout the game.

From the beginning, we established control and played a great game. We put three goals in

the net during regulation, but they were all called back for either offsides or fouls. Once again the score was tied 0-0 in at the end of regulation, meaning yet another sudden victory-overtime.

At the coin toss before OT, captain Elyse Munoz learned that if the game was still 0-0 at the end of both OT periods, then both teams would be declared co-champs. This had happened to us in 2020, when Sachem East and Ward Melville were declared co-county champs, and the team was not going to let history repeat itself.

“I refuse to lose,” Elyse said. “I refuse to tie. I won’t let that happen again.”

We came out on fire in OT, and in just under four minutes of the first period, Maddy Costello passed a through ball to Adri Victoriano, who drove down towards the goal, passed the ball to Mia Pirozzi, just missing the hands of the diving Clarence goalkeeper. For the second consecutive game, Mia guided the ball into the net for the game winning goal.

En route to our state championship, we had an undefeated season with a 17-0-3 record. Along with winning the states, we also were crowned Long Island and Suffolk County Champions.

Our team gave up only eight goals on the season, earned 12 shutouts, and shut out both teams we faced in the state tournament.

Our players of the games at states were Mia Pirozzi in the semifinal and Peyton Costello in the final. Our captains are Elyse Munoz, Elian Hamou, Emma Ward, and Peyton Costello.

All season long, we reinforced to the girls that they continue to rise to every challenge that comes their way.

“It was an absolute pleasure being on the sideline watching such a talented group of players and coaches come together to make history for Ward Melville Athletics and our Girls Soccer program. It was a magical weekend,

where so many family members, community members, alumni, and former coaches came out to support the team. ... Congratulations to our NY State Class AA 2022 Girls Soccer Champions!” said Kevin Finnerty, Athletic Director.

Photo by Michelle Jablonsky

Photo by Michelle Jablonsky

Photo by Michelle Jablonsky

Photo by Bruce Larrabee

Photo by Bruce Larrabee

Patriots defeat the undefeated William Floyd

BY BILL LANDON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

It was a low scoring ground and pound football game where the Patriots of Ward Melville (No. 4) came knocking on Wm Floyd’s door the No. 1 seed looking to upset the undefeated Colonials in the Suffolk Div I semifinal Nov. 12. Floyd struck first on a 53-yard pass play 3 minutes before the halftime break but the Patriots quarterback Andrew Belli punched in on a 14 yarder with 5:16 left in the 3rd quarter to even the score. With less than four minutes left in regulation Ward Melville senior running

back Nick Gaffney answered the call scoring on a 13-yard run and with Brody Morgans foot, put the Patriots out front 14-7.

Ward Melville capitalized on a Floyd miscue and took over on the 40-yard line. Protecting the ball and needing a first down the Patriots let the clock bleed out to advance to the final round.

The win lifts the Patriots to 8-3 and will face Longwood the No. 3 seed, at Stony Brook University Saturday Nov. 19. Kickoff is scheduled for high noon. Tickets can be purchased at: NYSPHSAA - Section XI Events and Tickets by GoFan.

Photos by Bill Landon

Pictured clockwise from above right, Ward Melville senior Trevor Murray catches a sideline pass for the Patriots; quarterback Andrew Belli throws to wide receiver Trevor Murray; running back Nick Gaffney vaults over a Floyd defender; Ward Melville senior cornerback Aidan Folkman breaks up a pass play for the Patriots.

Automobiles/Trucks

Vans/Rec Vehicles

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

DONATEYOURCARTO BREASTCANCERRECOVERY!TaxDeductionReceipt GivenUponPick-up,FreeTowing.501CCharity.631-988-9043 breastcancerresearchrecovery. org

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

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

Auto Services

DRIVEOUTBREASTCANCER

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

Health, Fitness & Beauty

ATTENTIONVIAGRAUSERS:

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

Musical Instruments

BLUESMANPIANOTUNING

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

Financial Services

AREYOUBEHIND$10kOR

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

Schools/Instruction/ Tutoring

PIANO-GUITAR-BASS

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

Finds Under 50

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

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

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

Finds Under 50

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

POWERWASHER$20, 631-689-9309

SAMSONITELUGGAGE

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

Housesitting Services

TRAVELING?

Needsomeonetocheckonyour home?

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

Miscellaneous

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

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

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

EMPLOYMENT/CAREERS

Help Wanted

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

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

Help Wanted

P/TSALES/CUSTOMER SERVICE

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

Help Wanted

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

Carpentry

LONGHILLCARPENTRY

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

Cesspool Services

MRSEWERMANCESSPOOL

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

Clean-Ups

LETSTEVEDOIT

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

Fences

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

Floor Services/Sales

FINESANDING& REFINISHING

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

Furniture/Restoration/ Repairs

REFINISHING& RESTORATION

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

Home Improvement

Home Improvement

DON’TPAYFORCOVERED HOMEREPAIRSAGAIN! AmericanResidentialWarranty coversallmajorsystemsand appliances.30dayriskfree/ $100offpopularplans. 833-398-0526

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

Home Repairs/ Construction

LUXDEVELOPMENTGROUP

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

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

LUXDISASTER

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

Lawn & Landscaping

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

Landscape Materials

SCREENEDTOPSOIL

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

ADVERTISE FOR RESULTS 631-751-7663

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

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

LAROTONDA PAINTING&DESIGN

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

WORTHPAINTING

Satellite TV

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

Tree Work

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

REACTPESTCONTROLINC.

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

BLUSTARCONSTRUCTION

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

SEEOURDISPLAYADFOR MOREINFORMATION

Lawn & Landscaping

SETAUKETLANDSCAPE DESIGN

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

Masonry

CARLBONGIORNO LANDSCAPE/MASON CONTRACTOR

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

Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper

ALLPROPAINTING

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

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

Power Washing

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

RANDALLBROTHERS TREESERVICE

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

SUNBURSTTREE EXPERTS

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

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

PUBLISHERS’NOTICE

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

Wewillnotknowinglyaccept anyadvertisingforrealestate whichisinviolationofthelaw. Allpersonsareherebyinformedthatalldwellings advertisedareavailableonanequal opportunitybasis.

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

Rentals

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

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

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

Taking personal steps to prevent ransomware attacks

The recent ransomware attack against the Suffolk County government has sparked questions regarding our relationship with technology.

We often take for granted the convenience offered by our devices. Today, we can communicate at lightning speed thanks to email and text messaging. A week’s supply of groceries is just a few clicks away. And many can carry out a full day of work without leaving their homes.

The digital revolution has permeated nearly every facet of our lives, finding the quickest, simplest, most convenient solutions to almost all of our daily problems. But are there consequences to our increasingly digital way of life? If the Suffolk County cyberattack has taught us anything, the answer is an emphatic “yes.”

While our county officials work through the ransomware situation, we must take a closer look at our technologies at home. What kind of sensitive records are stored within our smartphones and personal computers? How much could someone with access to these devices learn about us?

While most give very little thought to these matters, we must take a greater interest in our personal cybersecurity. If hackers can infiltrate the county’s network, crippling the government’s entire system for over a month, they can invade your home computer, too.

The digitization of all records is not the answer to our problems. Our social security cards and birth certificates are safer in the filing cabinet than on our computers. If we refrain from uploading these sensitive records to our devices, we deny hackers the chance to use them against us.

To protect oneself against ransomware, the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, an operational component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, recommends installing antivirus software, firewalls and email filters. CISA also advises upgrading all applications and operating systems, as outdated programs are frequent targets for ransomware.

Users can defend themselves, too, by verifying email senders and cautiously approaching all email attachments. One should only use a single card for all online purchases to prevent access to multiple financial accounts. Most importantly, people should stay current on cybercrime trends to remain ahead of the curve.

Remember that hackers cannot access records we do not upload. With caution and common sense, we can better protect ourselves from the growing threat of ransomware and other malicious activities online.

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

Letters to the Editor

Thank you for your service, Steve Englebright

I was saddened to learn that our state Assemblyman Steve Englebright [D-Setauket] narrowly lost his reelection Tuesday, Nov. 8. The official results have not been released but it appears that there are not enough outstanding votes to change the outcome.

Losing Steve as our state representative will be a big loss to our area as well as Long Island and New York state. Over his three decades in Albany, Steve has been the key sponsor of so much environmental legislation that most of us probably take it for granted.

In addition to being the key driver for this year’s successful $4 billion environmental bond, which will help New York fight climate change, protect acres of open space and keep our lakes, harbors and streams pollution free, he was also the father of net metering that expanded solar power in all our neighborhoods and forced energy utilities to pay homeowners and commercial building owners for the excess energy that they produce.

When you look around the Three Village community and see all of the historic buildings that have been protected over the years and the focus on our early colonial history, you can thank Steve Englebright for his foresight and ability to bring back

dollars from Albany to protect these historic treasures.

And of course we all owe Steve a debt of gratitude for his early efforts as an up-and-coming environmentalist and county legislator to convince policymakers that the Suffolk County Pine Barrens, located in the eastern part of the county, needed to be protected from development in order to conserve our critical underground water supply.

Hopefully Steve will decide to stay involved with all of his many activities that help improve the quality of life of our area and the state of New York.

Thank you Steve for your service.

George Hoffman Setauket

Perspective: Reflecting on the midterm elections

As I reflect on the recent midterm elections, I am both breathing a sigh of relief and also shaking my head in disbelief. While Democrats had a far more successful night nationally than expected, on Long Island and across New York state, fear, dishonesty and racism prevailed. We have much work to do.

I am relieved that Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) defeated Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-NY1). Zeldin’s positions on issues including fracking, reproductive rights and gun safety would be harmful to this state. His vote to overturn the 2020 presidential election, hours after the violent insurrection at the Capitol, marks him as someone who does not respect free and fair elections.

With that said, I am devastated to see that a great public servant like state Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) has lost his seat. Englebright has been a champion for climate protection and public education in his decades in office. His opponent, Republican Ed Flood (Port Jefferson), ran a campaign that was deeply racist in tone, sending out a mailer with incarcerated Black men pictured. Flood also had troubling things to say about public education.

In a meet the candidates night in October, Flood said that “out here” public education isn’t a problem, “but in lower socioeconomic areas” where “parents aren’t involved,” it is. He seems to misunderstand that the purpose of public education is to provide every child with a highquality public education, no matter their zip code. I wonder how he will be able to face the historically Black

By Shoshana Hershkowitz

community of Gordon Heights as their representative in Albany. He’s already made it quite clear how he views people of color.

The loss of state and congressional seats in New York, coupled with the narrow win of Hochul, ought to give the Democratic Party pause. The Hochul campaign seemed to cede Long Island to Zeldin and barely engaged the base out here. This cost us Democratic seats down ballot at the congressional and state levels. Jay Jacobs serves as chair of both the New York State and Nassau County Democratic committees, and Rich Schaffer serves as the Suffolk County Democratic Committee chair. Under their leadership, Long Island has bled seats for several election cycles, at the local, state and federal levels. Democrats deserve better leadership. In any failing organization, the leaders must be held accountable. It is past time for new local leadership in the Democratic Party.

When I think about what should come next for the Democratic Party, I believe it’s a long overdue moment

of self-reflection. Women are vulnerable, with their reproductive rights under attack. Communities of color are overpoliced and disproportionately incarcerated. Young people struggle to live in the place they are raised. The income inequality and segregation on Long Island is staggering. Despite this, too many Democrats aim to “work with the other side.”

As a prime Democratic voter, I am not seeking a kumbaya moment with insurrectionists and their sympathizers. I want my daughter’s reproductive rights to be protected. I want my children to not live in a world of school shootings and lockdown drills. I want affordable housing for the next generation. I want to protect our climate. It is time for Democrats to affirm our values and stop cowering and pandering. That is how Democrats on Long Island can stop themselves from becoming a minority party.

Despite my disappointments, I remain hopeful. When I speak with young people, I see their passion for environmental, social, economic and racial justice. Gen Z members came out to vote in historic numbers this year and were key to Democratic success across the country. Our youth are the future, and they are grounded in hope and action, not bigotry and fear. And for that reason, I will continue to fight the good fight, alongside and in solidarity with my children’s generation, who deserve to inherit a better world.

Shoshana Hershkowitz is the founder of Suffolk Progressives.

Pixabay photo

Even months after we emerged from our Covid caves, I still appreciate the wonder and joy of getting out again, of seeing people, of making plans, and of going on a date with my wife.

Recently, we went to see “Hadestown.”

he didn’t even see the movie “Rainman,” in which Dustin Hoffman’s character is addicted to the show “The People’s Court.”

BY DANIEL DUNAIEF

We didn’t know much about it, except that it had won several awards. As soon as we sat down, we fell on the playbill, reading about the origins of the story, checking out the cast, and immersing ourselves in the experience.

I will admit, sheepishly, that we also used our TV app to watch a few minutes of the Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions. Our son thinks our addiction to that show is laughable and

Anyway, after Jeopardy! ended, we took in the room. We studied the arrangement of the set, where it was clear the musicians would be on stage. When I was in high school, I thor oughly enjoyed playing in the pit orchestras of “West Side Story” and “The Wizard of Oz.” One of the wonders of the experience was the opportunity to dress casually, as we played in a true, recessed pit where we were heard and not seen.

As we got closer to the start of “Hadestown,” the auditorium filled with people sporting a wide range of attire, from casual to festive.

In the first few moments of the show, we were transported, as a colorful Hermes pranced around the stage, interacting with the other actors and reaching out to the audience.

The appreciative guests lapped up his over-the-top gestures and movements, as he introduced us to some of the characters and the band, who filled the stage with vitality, music and movement.

During intermission, I watched two women in the row in front of me. One was talking, while the other nodded absent-mindedly while playing solitaire. Perhaps that’s a carry over from too much time at home. Then again, who am I to complain? We watched a TV show in the moments before “Hadestown” started, so we’re also accustomed to our isolated entertainment.

To my left, two women with bright blonde hair opened a ziplock bag filled with small sugar cookies. After they each ate one, the woman holding the bag dropped a cookie on the floor. I felt it hit my shoe before it settled on the ground.

Now, I am a bit OCD with germs. Okay, fine, that’s like being a bit pregnant. I’m OCD and have been known to wash my hands so often in the winter that my skin becomes incredibly dry, cracks and bleeds.

So, what would I have done with that cookie? I would have picked it up, put it in my coat pocket, forgotten about it for about two weeks and, upon rediscovering it, would have thrown it in the garbage and, of course, washed my hands immediately afterwards.

The tale of a sugar cookie that hit the floor during a tragic show ‘Thank You’ to community superstars

Thanksgiving is almost here, and many of us are bustling about, packing for a distant visit with loved ones or making sure the house is in good shape to receive those traveling to us. For most Americans, it is our favorite holiday, defined by turkey and the trimmings. What could be bad about an eating holiday? The only skunk at the party is abandoned overeating, and most of us, wise from unfortunate past experience, try to avoid that.

a strong community, some of them leaders of organizations, others simply caring neighbors who go out of their way to help when help is needed.

In recognition of the many who enhance the quality of our lives, we publish a Thank You edition of the newspaper and website on the Thursday between Christmas and New Year’s. We call that issue, “People of the Year,” and we solicit suggestions for profiles from our staff, community leaders and especially from readers.

When we published only one newspaper, selection was fairly easy. As our editions grew, we produced a different slate for each. Recently, however, we have realized that what happens in Stony Brook can also affect Northport and vice versa, so we now publish a master list of sorts honoring those who have gone the extra mile on behalf of our communities. And by so doing, we have eased the strain on our COVIDreduced staff.

What did she do? The woman picked it up, briefly scraped off the parts she imagined must have touched the floor and my shoe, blew on it and broke it in half. She gave her companion one half, she kept the other, and they both, gulp, ate it.

I laughed nervously and made a mental note, not that I ever need one, to wash my hands just because, well, yuck!

In the second half of “Hadestown,” the show followed a similar pattern, as one sad, longing song gave way to another.

At the critical moment of the story, the woman who had been playing solitaire in front of us objected to the tragic turn of events.“Oh no, don’t do it!” she shouted.

While I wasn’t surprised by the ending to a story filled with mournful songs and that Hermes told us was sad, I chuckled as she tried to change the script from the balcony.

Yes, it was great to be out and to appreciate the show, the music, and the other guests.

All the world, as Shakespeare suggested, is a stage, including for the appreciative members of the audience.

appreciated, then with the additional kick of it being a surprise.

Until the year 2020, we invited the People of the Year to supper at the Three Village Inn in Stony Brook, generally on a late Sunday afternoon in March. At that venue, we gave each recipient a framed certificate, spoke for a minute about why they were selected, then gave them the mic to elaborate on their work.

Between you and me

BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF

The other thing that makes Thanksgiving special is the conscious awareness, again by most of us, of how much we have to be grateful for, including the community in which we live. It takes exceptional people to make

We have been doing this for 47 years, since we started publishing, and we still haven’t run out of winners. In fact, the more we meet, the larger the circle grows. [Confession in the spirit of full disclosure: I used to worry that we would indeed run out of nominees.] Sometimes we get lots of suggestions for the same person. We’ve even had readers bring in petitions with many signatures to help us choose whom to profile.

Ultimately the TBR Editorial Board makes the final decisions, so if you disagree with any of the choices, blame us.

TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA

The purpose of the profiles, in addition to offering these terrific people our thanks, is also to give them a spotlight to help them with their work, which is usually ongoing. With that goal in mind, we refrain from writing in this issue about those who have retired or are deceased. However, those stories, along with many we couldn’t fit in, may become features in future additions.

We have tried, each year, to keep their selection a secret from the winners. They seem to enjoy opening the paper in print or on the web and finding themselves and their efforts acknowledged. Of course, it’s fun to be

Many of the past awardees also attended each year. Based on how long the residents lingered over dessert after the last certificate was announced, we concluded that there was a lot of cross pollination among them, further strengthening our communities and their interactions.

We stopped those suppers with the advent of the coronavirus, fearing the possibility of a super spreader event. With each passing year, we hope to restore that tradition. It was delightful for us and, we believe, helpful for the community.

So we will wait to see what happens in 2023 and if we can resume partying. We all hope for the start of an After Times.

Postcards commemorate Thanksgiving

BY BEVERLY C. TYLER DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Postcards from Beverly C. Tyler’s collection