Business

Senior Assisted Living Community Recognized for Dedication to Long Island Seniors  by KP Chamber of Commerce

Whisper Woods of Smithtown, a Benchmark assisted living and Mind & Memory Care community, announced on March 11 they’ve received Kings Park Chamber of Commerce’s annual Humanitarian of the Year award. The award was given to the assisted living with memory care community for their ardent support of local seniors and their families.

On March 7, Desiree Krajnyak-Baker, executive director of Whisper Woods, accepted the award at the Chamber’s annual Persons of the Year Award Dinner & Dance held at Stonebridge Golf Links in Smithtown.

“For six years, we’ve worked hard to be a valued resource for all Suffolk County seniors and families,” said Krajnyak-Baker. “For our team, it’s about continuing to empower our residents as they age while nurturing their passions, connections and their quality of life. We are incredibly grateful to have our dedication recognized by the Chamber.”

“Whisper Woods is a valued and very visible member of our community. Even in challenging situations, the caring and commitment of the staff is incredibly evident in each and every interaction. I can’t think of an organization in our community who is more deserving of this award,” Diane Motherway, executive director, Kings Park Chamber of Commerce.

Last year, Whisper Woods was selected one of the country’s best by U.S. News & World Report with a 2023-2024 Best Assisted Living excellence award. They were the only senior living community in the greater Smithtown area to have earned this prestigious award.

Dr. James Bruno

Neurologist and sleep disorders specialist Dr. James Bruno has been selected as a Fellow of the American Epilepsy Society (FAES). This prestigious honor recognizes Dr. Bruno’s professional accomplishments and unwavering dedication to the field of epilepsy.

As a board-certified neurologist with expertise in epilepsy and sleep disorders, Dr. Bruno brings knowledge and experience to his practice at Three Village Neurology, 4511 Nesconset Highway in Port Jefferson Station (www.threevillageneurology.com) which offers a range of specialized services, including the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, sleep apnea, and other individuals affected by neurological disorders using the latest technologies to diagnose and treat these conditions including Polysomnography and Electroencephalography.

In addition to his private practice, Dr. Bruno is a clinical associate professor of neurology at SUNY Stony Brook, co-directs the St. Charles Hospital Epilepsy Center and sits on the Professional Advisory Board at Long Island Island’s Epilepsy Foundation.

Pictured from left, PJCC Director Leah Dunaief; Port Jefferson Village Deputy Mayor Rebecca Kassay; Port Jefferson Village Mayor Lauren Sheprow; PJCC Director Brett Davenport; PJCC President Stuart Vincent; Bartender Erik Killian Bartender; Castaways co-owners Michael Krohn (holding scissors), John Sarno and Mario Tucci; Assistant General Manager Kathi Heggers; General Manager McKayla De la Pena; chamber partner Michelle Cruz; and PJCC Secretary Nancy Bradley. Photo courtesy of PJCC

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for its newest member and Port Jefferson restaurant Castaways Steak and Seafood on Feb. 26. Mayor Lauren Sheprow, Deputy Mayor Rebecca Kassay, members of the chamber and staff joined co-owners Michael Krohn, John Sarno and Mario Tucci in the celebration. 

The restaurant is the latest addition to the Silver Lining Restaurant Group which includes Village Idiot Pubs in Patchogue, Oakdale and Lake Grove and Drift 82 in Patchogue owned by Sarno and Chops Steakhouse in Patchogue which is co-owned by Sarno and Krohn.

The former location of The Village Way, the completely renovated 2,900 square foot restaurant at 106 Main Street in Port Jefferson Village sports a most fitting nautical decor with mermaids, diving helmets, life preserver rings and an octopus chandelier.

“The Chamber is very pleased with this newest addition to our restaurant inventory, Castaways! Partners, John, Mario, and Mike have taken great lengths to pay attention to the décor and the menu. Creating a vibrant and welcoming establishment only adds to our downtown business community. Wishing them and their staff much success,” said Barbara Ransome, director of operations at the chamber.

Currently serving only dinner, wine and cocktails with live music on Fridays and Saturdays, the restaurant will later expand to include lunch and brunch menus. Their extensive dinner menu include a variety of seafood, steak, pork and chicken entrees along with appetizers, salads and a raw bar. They also host special events including birthday parties and office functions.

Operating hours are noon to 10 p.m. on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; noon to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays; closed Tuesdays. To make a reservation, call 888-624-6106. For more information, please visit castawayspj.com.

Pictured: Left to right: Matthew Schettino, Suffolk Credit Union Senior Vice President Marketing; Frank Trotta, Suffolk Credit Union Board of Directors Vice Chairman; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Michele Dean, Suffolk Credit Union President & CEO; Councilman Neil Foley; Supervisor Daniel J. Panico; Councilman Neil Manzella; Laura Racioppi, Suffolk Credit Union Vice President Corporate & Community Partnerships; Christine Fetten, Commissioner of Recycling and Sustainable Materials Management; and Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig. Photo from Suffolk Credit Union

-Program provides convenient document shredding and disposal of electronics and medications-

Suffolk Credit Union announced it is sponsoring the Town of Brookhaven’s Special Recycling Events in 2024. Twelve E-Waste, Paper Shredding and Drug Take Back events will be held in the spring and fall at various locations.

The initiative will provide thousands of Brookhaven residents with convenient opportunities to safely shred documents and dispose of electronic waste and old medications—keeping harmful material out of landfills and waterways. All shredded documents will be recycled.

Suffolk Credit Union presented a donation of $5,000 at the program launch on February 28, held at the Brookhaven Town Hall. Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico, Town Council members and representatives of the credit union were on hand to express their support for this community program that promotes both financial and environmental safety.

“This is a great way to help prevent identity theft and financial fraud by shredding documents as well as protect our beautiful environment here on Long Island,” said Michele Dean, CEO and President of Suffolk Credit Union.  “It aligns with our credit union’s dedication to helping people achieve financial security and ongoing commitment to giving back to our communities.”

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Daniel J. Panico said, “We are happy to have Suffolk Credit Union on board for our recycling events. I thank them for being partners as we work to keep the environment clean. Every year, thousands of residents participate by dropping off their electronics, paper, cardboard and unused prescription medicine. I expect this year to have the same results.”

The 2024 Special Recycling Events will be held on Saturdays between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Following are the dates and locations:

  • April 13: Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station
  • April 20: Holtsville Ecology Center, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville
  • May 4: Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai
  • May 18: Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook
  • June 1: Eastport-South Manor Junior-Senior High School, 543 Moriches-Middle Island Road, Manorville
  • June 15: Middle Island Fire Department, 31 Arnold Drive, Middle Island
  • Sept. 14: Bayport-Blue Point Public Library, 186 Middle Road, Blue Point
  • Sept. 28: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Boulevard, Centereach
  • Oct. 5: Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai
  • Oct. 19: Center Moriches Free Public Library, 235 Montauk Highway, Center Moriches
  • Oct. 26: Setauket Fire Department, 394 Nicolls Road, Setauket
  • Nov. 2: South Country Library, 22 Station Road, Bellport

For more information, call: 451-TOWN (8696) or visit: www.BrookhavenNY.gov/RecycleEvents

About Suffolk Credit Union
Suffolk Credit Union is a local not-for-profit cooperative financial institution owned and operated by its members. It was chartered in 1967 by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). The volunteer-directed credit union has assets in excess of $1.8 billion, 10 branches and over 70,000 members, including partnerships with Suffolk County employees and unions. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or regularly conducts business in Nassau and Suffolk counties as well as immediate family members of current membership. To learn more, visit www.suffolkcu.org or call 631-924-8000.

Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria has announced its acquisition of Wading River Pizza in Wading River.

“As we reflect on the past six years we are filled with gratitude for the support and friendship you have shown us at Wading River Pizza,” said owner and pizzaiolo Steven LaBarbera. “It has been an incredible journey serving you and we are truly thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful community.”

Wading River Pizza owner and pizzaiolo Steven LaBarbera will retire in March 2024.

“As we pass the torch to the team at Uncle Joe’s, we do so with confidence that they will continue to uphold the standards of delicious food and courteous service that you have come to expect,” said Wading River Pizza co-owner Kristen LaBarbera. “We trust that they will treat you all like family, just as we have strived to do.”

Led by Tana Gerber and Scott Gerber, Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria will become the new steward of Wading River Pizza.

“We are excited to introduce the Wading River, East Shoreham and Rocky Point communities to some of the specialties that have made us a trusted, family-friendly brand for over 50 years,” said Scott Gerber. “Rest assured, we will preserve the culinary excellence and customer service that Wading River Pizza’s regulars, fans and locals have come to know and love.”

Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria serves Original Long Island Panko pizzas, Classic New York Style pizzas, and Italian specialties, such as Uncle Joe’s Famous Alla Vodka sauce dishes, Parms, Original Sauce Wings and signature Dolci Doughknots.

Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria in Wading River is located at 6324 Route 25A in the Little Bay Shopping Center. The full transition to Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria will occur by spring.

Other Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria locations in Suffolk County include Hampton Bays (42E Montauk Highway) and Miller Place (691 Route 25A). Uncle Joe’s Hampton Bays and Miller Place locations are anticipated to re-open from renovation in March 2024.

“It’s our distinctive honor to offer Long Island pizzeria owners the opportunity to join the Uncle Joe’s family,” said Tana Gerber. “Uncle Joe’s Famous Pizzeria intends to announce additional acquisitions in the weeks and months ahead.”

For more information, please visit UncleJoes.com or call 631-929-9222.

From left, Jefferson’s Ferry’s President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Caulfield, Director of Admissions Dawn Flowers-Leib, Director of Housekeeping Patti Gallagher, Culinary Manager Heidi Vargas, Assistant Director of Nursing Kathy Koutouvidis, Director of Nursing Richelle Rugolo, and Vice President of Health Services Anthony Comerford. Photo courtesy of Jefferson's Ferry

Resident survey scores Jefferson’s Ferry in top 15% nationwide in skilled nursing care

For the sixth year running, the Vincent Bove Health Center at Jefferson’s Ferry Life Plan Community in South Setauket has received the Pinnacle Quality Insight Customer Experience Award for outstanding resident satisfaction and overall achievement in skilled nursing care. 

The Pinnacle Award process examines “Best in Class” service in skilled nursing over a 12-month period of study by surveying residents and their families about the quality of 14 target areas: Nursing care, activities, dining services/food quality, cleanliness, laundry services, therapy services, response to problems, dignity and respect, individual needs, would they recommend to others, the overall customer experience and satisfaction by residents or family members. The survey placed the health center in the top 15% of skilled nursing facilities nationwide. 

“For more than 20 years, Jefferson’s Ferry, Long Island’s first Life Plan Retirement Community, has set a high bar for extraordinary care,” said Jefferson’s Ferry President and CEO Bob Caulfield. “We strive every day to provide the highest quality care experience in a community setting that respects individuality and promotes dignity, privacy, and independence for every resident. The Pinnacle Award is a direct reflection of our families’ recognition of the outstanding work that our staff performs on a daily basis and a vote of confidence that all of us take very seriously.” 

The survey sampling of Vincent Bove Health Center residents and their families takes place over the course of a year with monthly telephone interviews that ask the participants open-ended questions to rate their experiences in the specific categories. Jefferson’s Ferry staff receive that feedback each month to gain a better understanding of emerging resident needs and make improvements when necessary. 

“The Pinnacle Award is especially meaningful to our caregivers and other staff, as the results come directly from the people they help on a daily basis,” explained Anthony Comerford, Vice President of Health Service at Jefferson’s Ferry. 

“It is important to know that we are consistently hitting the mark, meeting or exceeding the best standards or practices within our industry. Our goal is always to provide residents with the peace of mind to live their best life here. The staff and residents form close relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and quality care,” he said.

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (at podium) joined labor leaders, builders, elected officials and more to announce a historic agreement that implements safety training standards on large construction sites. Photo from TOB

On February 22, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (at podium) joined labor leaders, builders, elected officials and more to announce a historic agreement that implements safety training standards on large construction sites.

Construction is a dangerous industry, representing an estimated 25 percent of all of workplace fatalities nationwide. In New York, annual statistics show that a construction worker is killed once every six days on jobsites statewide. In an effort to increase safety in construction across Long Island, industry leaders have agreed upon minimum safety training standards for all workers employed at construction sites over 35k sq/ft. Pictured are New York State Senator and Plumbers Local 200 Business Agent Mario Matera (first left of center in yellow vest); Town of Brookhaven Deputy Supervisor/Councilman Neil Foley (first right of center) and Town of Brookhaven Councilman Michael Loguercio, (second right of center) also spoke at the press conference.

The legislation, which was adopted at the Town of Brookhaven’s February 22 Town Board meeting, requires all workers to have an OSHA 30 certification at jobsites over 35k sq/ft., and also that there be a Site Safety Supervisor at jobsites over 75k sq/ft., to further ensure accountability and increased safety standards on complex construction projects.

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Daniel J. Panico said, “Today’s announcement marks the culmination of talks between the Town, the development community and labor.  It is proof that an effective thoughtful compromise can be struck when people sit down and talk to each other as opposed to at each other. I thank everyone involved in bringing us to this day, where the Town Board is expected to pass this law this evening at our public hearing.”

“As certified OSHA instructor, safety is first and foremost the number one priority for the members I represent”, stated Laborers Local 66 Vice President Vinny Alu. “Far too many workers are killed on construction sites simply because they are not provided the necessary safety training to do the job safely. An OSHA 30 certification is the minimum training any worker should be required to have before entering a dangerous construction site. I want to thank the Long Island Builders Institute and Supervisor Panico for working with us to address workplace safety. This will undoubtedly save lives.”

The law will require permit holders for large construction sites to ensure that their General Contractors and Subcontractors have a trained workforce, and that proof of each worker’s OSHA 30 certification will be documented and available upon the Town’s request.

Mike Florio, CEO, Long Island Builders Institute said, “On any jobsite, worker safety is first and foremost a priority and this agreement establishes a baseline standard for all construction projects.  Our goal is to see this standard adopted from one end of Long Island to the other, which will raise the floor for worker training and safety.  We thank Supervisor Panico and the town board for addressing this important issue and the Laborers Local 66 and Nassau Suffolk Building Trades for working together to craft this historic agreement.”

“Organized labor began with a focus on safety for workers on the jobsite,” stated Matthew Aracich, President of the Nassau Suffolk Building and Construction Trades Council. “Today’s announcement has strengthened the core of those labor standards for the Long Island workforce. I commend the efforts of Laborers Local 66 and the Town of Brookhaven to adopt this policy for all jobsites. Having an alignment with representatives of the Long Island Builders Institute and Association for Better Long Island means the Building Trades Council and affiliates care equally about worker’s interests.”

“We would like to applaud Supervisor Panico, the Brookhaven Town Board, and all of their colleagues across Long Island who are committed to passing this measure,” stated Ryan Stanton, Executive Director of the Long Island Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO. “The importance and value of a uniform safety standard on construction sites across Long Island cannot be overstated. The construction industry is dangerous by nature, and the requirement of an OSHA30 training standard is vital to ensuring all workers get to return home to their families at the end of the day. It’s been nothing short of amazing working in collaboration with our affiliates, contractors, development community, and local elected officials to deliver a safety policy that we all agree on and are excited about.”

Failure to comply with the law can result in fines of $1,000 and up to $10,000 for each day violations are found. Qualified third-party safety persons or entities that can provide certifications are permitted to be used to confirm compliance with the requirements.

Other union and labor officials who attended the press conference were Matthew Aracich, President Nassau Suffolk Building Trades Council; Ryan Stanton, Executive Director Long Island Federation of Labor; Vinny Alu, Vice President Laborers Local 66; Tim McCarthy, IBEW Local 25 Business Representative; Ray Fester, DC9 Painters Business Agent; Brian Kearney Jr., President SteamFitters Local 638; Mike Bourgal, Teamsters Local 282 Business Agent; and Robert Wilson, Operating Engineers Local 30.

Wend Wellness Chiropractic
Dr. Shane Wend of Wend Wellness Chiropractic. Photo from WMHO

Stony Brook Village is home to a new chiropractic practice. 

Wend Wellness Chiropractic, located at 21 Main Street, opened its doors in January. Led by Dr. Shane Wend, the office offers comprehensive initial evaluations, chiropractic adjustments, free nutrition plans, natural supplementation recommendations for specific issues and pathological implications, fitness plans, and all-natural supplements (Super U), which provides focus, smooth energy, and mental clarity, according to a press release.

Super U is a proprietary blend of nutrients created and tested over 3 years by Dr. Wend. It is available only through Wend Wellness Chiropractic.

A native of Northport and current resident of Head of the Harbor, Dr. Wend developed an early passion for the intricacies of the human body and a genuine desire to enhance people’s well-being and health. He graduated from Saint Anthony’s High School in 2009 and pursued a degree in biology at Stony Brook University. Later, he studied at the Palmer College of Chiropractic and, since 2020, has been practicing chiropractic care while sharing informative tips on nutrition, health, and wellness through his website and social media pages.

Wend Wellness Chiropractic is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. by appointment, closed on Tuesdays and on weekends. For  more information, call 631-485-3643 or visit www.wendwellness.com.

Greg Philipps

Last week, the Three Village Historical Society (TVHS) celebrated the inauguration of its 2024 board of trustees with a swearing-in ceremony. The event, held on Tuesday, February 13th, marked the official introduction of the newly appointed leadership team.

Bob Lauto

Greg Philipps, assuming the role of president, and Bob Lauto, taking on the position of vice president, were both sworn in during the ceremony. The honor of administering the oath fell to Fred Bryant, a respected longtime member and former trustee of the Society.

Mari Irizarry, Director of the society, expressed enthusiasm for the new trustees, citing their diverse backgrounds and wealth of experience. She underscored their capacity to provide strong leadership and varied perspectives crucial for addressing the significant challenges and opportunities facing the organization in the coming year.

“As we welcome Greg Philipps and Bob Lauto to their respective roles, we are invigorated by the fresh energy and expertise they bring to our board,” remarked Irizarry. “Their appointment enhances our ability to navigate the complex landscape ahead, ensuring that we uphold our commitment to excellence in education and community-based programming.”

Pictured from left, Medical Staff Vice Chairman John Yu, MD; Emergency Department Medical Director and Medical Staff member board Adam Wos, MD; Medical Staff Secretary/Treasurer Maritza Groth, MD; Medical Director Joseph Ng, MD; Medical Staff President Mohammad Bilal, MD; Executive Director Kevin McGeachy; JTM Foundation Chairman James Danowski; and JTM Foundation Vice Chairman Donald Lippencott. Photo courtesy of Mather Hospital

Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson recently received a $50,000 gift from its medical staff for the construction of a new Emergency Department.

“In making this donation to the Legacy Campaign, the Medical Staff is committed to supporting the future Frey Family Emergency Department, which will provide the surrounding population with a local state-of-the-art facility where the best care can be delivered by active members of the Mather Hospital medical community,” said Mohammad Bilal, MD, President of Mather’s medical staff. 

The new $52 million, 26,000-square-foot Frey Family Emergency Department currently under construction will double the size of the current Emergency Department and will re-envision emergency care for the community. The new design will maximize patient privacy and caregiver support, increase process efficiencies, and incorporate the best practices for patient safety. 

It is scheduled to open in 2025.

Located on the north side of the hospital campus, the new Emergency Department will feature individual private rooms and use a split-flow design that has proven to accelerate treatment and discharge of patients with lower-acuity conditions and speed hospital admissions for patients with higher-acuity conditions. 

The facility will include imaging services including X-ray, ultrasound, and CT technology; isolation rooms for infectious disease control; and a dedicated treatment area for those experiencing a mental health crisis.