Reese Marcario fires at the box for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
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Reese Marcario fires at the box for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham Wading River field hockey vs. Eastport-South Manor 10/7/24. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham Wading River field hockey vs. Eastport-South Manor 10/7/24. Photo by Bill Landon
Kaitlynn Monaghan pushes up the sideline for the Wildcats. Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River Madison Herr shoots. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham Wading River field hockey vs. Eastport-South Manor 10/7/24. Photo by Bill Landon
Loose ball. Photo by Bill Landon
By Bill Landon
The Shoreham-Wading River field hockey squad tore open their season with 10 consecutive wins but stumbled in a road game against Harborfields, losing to the Tornadoes 2-1, Sept. 30.
The Wildcats wasted no time in clawing back to their winning ways with a home game against Eastport-South Manor (9-2) Monday night, Oct. 7. The Sharks struck first with two minutes remaining in the opening quarter but sophomore forward Madison Herr answered back 30 seconds later to make it a new game.
Senior midfielder Ellie Arena rocked the box with six minutes left in the first half off an assist by Marisa Cacciola for the Wildcats to take a 2-1 lead, a score that would make the final buzzer.
The win lifts the Wildcats to 11-1 in a three-way tie along with Miller Place and Bayport-Blue Point atop the Division II leaderboard.
Irene Rodgers, left, and Janet Romeo, right, inviting guests to learn more about the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island. Photo by Gabby Daniels
By Gabby Daniels
Is there anything better than a day on the golf course?
Just ask Joey and Nina Meyer, whose day was not only filled with golf, family, friends and fun, but was one that supported the cause so near and dear to their hearts.
In May of 2022, Nina Meyer was diagnosed with epilepsy, and it quickly took a toll on her life. Having been there through Nina’s two brain surgeries and watching her face an everyday battle with seizures and constant medications, her husband Joey knew he had to do something that could help turn this difficult disorder into something more positive.
Partnering with the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island, Meyer organized the “2024 Open to End Epilepsy” fundraiser in hopes of making a difference. The event took place on Sept. 20, at the Willow Creek Golf and Country Club in Mount Sinai.
A day filled with donations, camaraderie, awareness and hope, the day not only celebrated the spirit of community, but also fostered a deeper understanding of epilepsy, ensuring that no one has to face this challenge alone.
Joey Meyer happily welcoming guests out on the green. Photo by Gabby Daniels
“When my wife was first diagnosed with epilepsy, it felt hopeless because we did not really know what to do,” Meyer said.
“Having this event, our goal was to get others talking about epilepsy so that those going through it could feel supported and seen. It was a great way to raise money and awareness for others going through a similar experience as Nina, and we can let people know about the epilepsy foundation and everything they provide in the process,” Meyer said.
The event proved to be more than impactful, raising over $15,000 from event tickets and sponsorships alone.
“Our goal was to raise at least $20,000 today, and we have made great progress already,” Meyer said. “We have raffle tickets for sale, games and dinner to follow the golf outing, so I think we are on track to hit our goal.”
Being quite the beautiful day on the golf course, event attendees were thrilled to take part in the event. “It has been so nice out today, getting to golf, hang out, and support a good cause,” stated Amber Ciccotto, a friend of the Meyers.
“Nina has told me so much about her experience with epilepsy, and I think it is so important to learn as much as you can about it so you can be there for your loved ones who deal with it.”
The course was also lined with other fundraisers, such as Charity Golf, and their long-drive competition.
Hosted by Michael Watson, who has appeared in 4 World Long Drive championships, golfers were offered the opportunity to participate in a ‘Hole in 2’ competition, with a minimum donation that could win them a 3-day trip to San Francisco’s Pebble Beach Lodge.
Michael Watson promoting the ‘Hole in 2’ competition. Photo by Gabby Daniels
“There have been so many generous people out here today,” Watson said. “We have gotten a lot of donations, and it has been really fun doing this for the Meyers and the foundation.”
With directing members Irene Rodgers and Janet Romeo of the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island in attendance, anyone at the event was able to learn more about the disorder. The foundation, founded in 1953, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is “to improve the lives of people affected by epilepsy through education, advocacy, research and connection.”
“We were so touched and honored that the Meyers reached out to us because it gives us the chance to share the resources and education opportunities we offer within the organization,” said Rodgers.
“We are there for anyone and everyone that has a diagnosis, but we also support their loved ones, their caregivers, and anyone else interested. We provide support, information and referrals; we provide training in seizure recognition, and we advocate. Whatever they need, we want to be there.”
Gabby Daniels is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism’s Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
On September 8, the congregation of Mt. Sinai Congregational Church (MSUCC), 233 North Country Rd., Mt. Sinai enthusiastically welcomed Pastor William C. Kovacsik as its settled Senior Pastor. He is the 28th minister to serve MSUCC since its organization in 1789.
Pastor Kovacsik, or Pastor Bill as he likes to be called, is a graduate of the Master of Divinity Program at Yale Divinity School. He holds a B.A. in English Literature from Drew University, a J.D. from Fordham University School of Law and a M.F.A. in Playwriting from the School of Drama at Carnegie Mellon University.
Before Pastor Bill’s call to ministry, he had a brief career as a litigator on Wall Street. He then went back to his love of theatre and served on the faculty at the School for Drama at Carnegie Mellon, taught theatre at Ball State University and the University of Colorado at Boulder. He served on the faculty at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts Asia in Singapore. Prior to coming to MSUCC, Pastor Bill served as Pastor of the United Methodist Church in West Hartford, CT. Pastor Bill has been granted authority as a lay minister by the Suffolk Association Committee on Ministry while he seeks full ordination in the United Congregational Church of Christ.
All are welcome to come and meet Pastor Bill in person through attendance at MSUCC’s worship service on Sundays at 10 a.m. or stop by the office at the church in Mt. Sinai. Theirs is a church where all are welcome and included in the full life of the church-regardless of age, race, abilities, economic or marital status, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identification. Find out more at msucc.org.
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for its 9th annual Volunteer Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Meet with representatives from various organizations including Atlantic Marine Conservation Society, Crime Victims Center, Guide Dog Foundation, Literacy Suffolk, Inc., Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference, Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, Long Island State Veterans Home, Mather Hospital’s Volunteer Department, New York Blood Center, Open Door Exchange, Parker Jewish Institute — Willing Hearts Helpful Hands, Response of Suffolk County, Inc., SAVE-A-PET, Sierra Club, Long Island Group, Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4927 to find out about local opportunities for a variety of ages.
UCP-LI has announced that Lisa Caselles is the new Director of Educational Services/ Principal at The Children’s Center. With experience in special education and leadership roles, Caselles is well-equipped to lead the Center in its mission to provide educational services to children with disabilities.
“I am very honored to join this amazing team” says Ms. Caselles. “I share the team’s commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment that supports the development of each child’s gifts and strengths. I look forward to working closely with our dedicated staff and families to ensure that each student receives the individualized care and educational support they need to reach their full potential.”
Prior to becoming part of the UCP team, Ms. Caselles served as Preschool Education Site/Curriculum Coordinator at Alternatives for Children in East Setauket.
She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a focus on Special Education from St. Joseph’s College and then went on to complete a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education at Stony Brook University.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lisa as the new principal of UCP-LI Children’s Center,” said Colleen Crispino, President & CEO. “Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge garnered through many years of leadership in special education. Her commitment to fostering an inclusive, nurturing environment aligns perfectly with our mission.”
From left, Harlan Fischer, Kristen Domiano, Stephanie Gress, and Michael Brescia. Photo courtesy of Branch Financial Services, Inc.
Branch Financial Services, Inc. of Setauket is celebrating 50 years of serving clients this month.
President Harlan J. Fischer founded Branch Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment advisor, on Oct. 1, 1974. According to a press release from the financial business, Fischer “is as committed to its success today as he was in those early days of business.”
“As its founder and principal, the mission he set forth for Branch Financial Services, Inc. 50 years ago was simple—to help clients achieve their personal and financial goals,” read the release. “Beyond this mission, Harlan and his staff are committed to providing a level of service that is rare to find today. They are so serious about this that they trademarked ‘You Can’t Hug an 800 Number’ ™ as their motto.”
Fischer said he takes tremendous pride in Branch Financial Services, Inc., its fiduciary status and independence, which he said carries through to every aspect of the business. The office, located at 21 Bennetts Road, is known for looking more like an art gallery full of contemporary sculptures and paintings.
Before moving the office to Setauket in 2020, Branch Financial Services, Inc. was located in Hauppauge for 21 years and Smithtown for 25 years. The financial business has been a member of the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce since 1995 and the Three Village Chamber of Commerce since 2020.
Several clients have been with Fischer for most of his 50-year career, and their children and extended families have become clients in many cases as well.
Mia and Jerry Vogt, of Massapequa, have traveled to Suffolk County for more than 15 years to consult with Fischer.
“Harlan’s approach to financial planning seamlessly blends traditional values with the demands of a fast-paced modern world,” Mia Vogt said. “His commitment to time-honored principles—such as integrity, long-term vision and personal responsibility—provides a solid foundation for navigating today’s complex financial landscape.”
According to the press release, the “team understands the importance of a personal touch in investment. In an era dominated by impersonal, automated services, the firm’s dedication to understanding each client’s unique needs offers a deeply personalized experience. For Harlan and his colleagues, it’s not just about guiding clients through financial decisions, but also about fostering a trusting relationship.”
Fischer’s colleagues currently include Michael Brescia, Kristen Domiano and Stephanie Gress, who have worked beside him and have known him for many years. According to the press release, “He makes it clear to them that he values and appreciates them every day.”
Brescia provides financial and legal services to his Branch Financial Services, Inc. clients, while Gress is a service associate, and Domiano supervises the office administration, compliance and back office for the firm.
While 50 years may sound like a long time to some, Fischer said, “I feel like I’m just getting warmed up.”
Over the years Fischer has served on many boards for professional and arts organizations. He and his wife Olivia have funded several historic restoration projects in the Three Village area, and they sponsor events and public programming. Currently, Fischer serves as Chairman of the Village of Head of the Harbor Planning Board.
In 2024 alone, he was named a Best in State Wealth Advisor by Forbes and received the Corporate Citzenship Award by the Long Island Business News.
As he reflects on his years in business, the financial advisor is deeply grateful to Bill Weidner, his mentor from early in his career, and the clients of Branch Financial Services, Inc.
“My career journey has been enriched by the wonderful people I have worked with and for through the decades,” Fischer said. “I eagerly look forward to working with everyone for years to come.”
Currently, approximately 30 percent of new cancer diagnoses in women are breast cancer (1). While age is a risk factor for breast cancer, 16 percent of 2024 diagnoses will be in women under age 50.
This October, for Breast Cancer Awareness month, let’s review the latest research on screening, treatments, and prevention strategies.
What are current screening recommendations?
In April 2024, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force expanded their screening recommendations for women of average breast cancer risk. They lowered the recommended start point for mammograms to age 40, continuing every other year through age 74 (2).
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is reviewing their recommendations in light of this USPSTF shift. They currently encourage a process of shared decision-making between patient and physician to determine age and frequency of exams, including whether to begin exams before age 50 or to continue after age 75 (3). Generally, it recommends beginning annual or biennial mammograms starting no later than 50 and continuing until age 75.
The American Cancer Society’s physician guidelines are to offer a mammogram beginning at age 40 and recommend annual exams from 45 to 54. At age 55 until life expectancy is less than 10 years, they recommend biennial exams (4).
You should consult with your physician to identify your risk profile and plan your regular screening schedule.
Does diet matter?
A small, eight-week randomized control trial of 32 women who had metastatic breast cancer and who were on stable treatment found that the 21 study subjects who ate a whole food, plant-based diet free from added oils and fats lost more weight and reported feeling healthier than the 11 who maintained their current, traditional American diet as part of the control group (5). In addition to losing weight and reporting better emotional well-being and quality of life, they reported less diarrhea and fatigue and experiencing less shortness of breath during activities.
Medical measures of improved health, in addition to weight loss, included reduced insulin resistance and better cholesterol measures. While cancer progression markers did not move significantly in eight weeks, they did show improvement.
The study authors recommend larger and longer follow-up studies to assess the longer-term impact of diet.
What’s the role of exercise?
We know exercise is important in diseases and breast cancer is no exception. An observational trial found that exercise reduced breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women significantly (6). These women exercised moderately; they walked four hours a week over a four-year period. If they exercised previously, five to nine years ago, but not recently, no benefit was seen. The researchers stressed that it is never too late to begin exercise.
Only about one-third of women get the recommended level of exercise every week: 30 minutes for five days a week. Once diagnosed with breast cancer, women tend to exercise less, not more.
A recently published French study assessed cancer recurrence of over 10,000 women with an average age of 56 who were diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer between 2012 and 2018 (7). The researchers found that pre-menopausal women who completed 90 minutes to five hours of moderate exercise per week before starting treatment for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer had a lower risk of metastatic recurrence than women who didn’t exercise.
We need to expend as much energy and resources emphasizing exercise for prevention as we do screenings.
What about soy?
Soy may actually be beneficial in reducing breast cancer risk. In a meta-analysis, those who consumed more soy saw a significant reduction in breast cancer compared to those who consumed less (8). There was a dose-response curve among three groups: high intake of >20 mg per day, moderate intake of 10 mg and low intake of <5 mg.
Those in the highest group had a 29 percent reduced risk, and those in the moderate group had a 12 percent reduced risk when compared to those who consumed the least. In addition, higher soy intake has been associated with reduced recurrence and increased survival for those previously diagnosed with breast cancer (9). The benefit from soy is thought to come from isoflavones, plant-rich nutrients.
A more recent meta-analysis of six observational studies expanded on these outcomes (10). It concluded that post-menopausal women and women diagnosed with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer lowered their breast cancer recurrence risk the most by eating 60 mg of soy isoflavones per day, or two-to-three servings. A serving consists of either one cup of soy milk, three ounces of tofu, or one-half cup of cooked soybeans.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to reflect on the importance of mammography and breast self-exams. However, we need to give significantly more attention to prevention of breast cancer and its recurrence. Through potentially more soy intake, as well as a plant-based diet and modest exercise, we may be able to accelerate the trend toward a lower breast cancer incidence or recurrence.
References:
(1)breastcancer.org (2) uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org. (3) acog.org. (4) cancer.org. (5) Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2024 Jun;205(2):257-266. (6) Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2014 Sep;23(9):1893-902. (7) J Clinical Oncology. 2024;42(25). (8) Br J Cancer. 2008; 98:9-14. (9) JAMA. 2009 Dec 9; 302(22): 2437–2443. (10) JNCI Cancer Spectrum, Volume 8, Issue 1, February 2024, pkad104.
Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.
As part of the New York State Field Band Conference, the Huntington Blue Devil Marching Band (HBDMB) and Huntington Union Free School District will present it’s Bi-Annual Home Show Competition at the Blue Devil Stadium at Huntington High School, Sunday, October 20 with show start time of 1 p.m.
Competing and performing will be a total of eight Marching Bands from (listed in order of performance) COPIAGUE, WALT WHITMAN, DIVISION AVE, SACHEM, HUNTINGTON, ROSLYN, MALVERNE, BRENTWOOD.
Members of the Long Island community, as well as friends of the HBDMB are invited, and tickets can be purchased at the door for $12. Students can purchase tickets for $5 with a valid student ID, and children under 10 enter for free. All proceeds from the event will go to Band Parents Association of Huntington, a not-for-profit organization and will benefit the Huntington Band program. The bi-annual HBDMB home show is a competition level show for New York State Field Band Conference and scores will count against the band’s standings in the Conference. Awards will be presented after the final performance.
The renowned Huntington Blue Devil Marching Band from Huntington High School is recognized in the state for holding several championship titles including their most recent award of the 4th place Large School 2 division finish at the New York State Field Band Conference Championships at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse in October 2023. The HBDMB is an integral part of the Huntington community and participates in various local parades throughout the year.
Huntington Union Free School District has been in existence since 1657. The District serves approximately 4,600 students attending the district’s eight schools. Huntington’s music program is well represented in the county and state music festivals each year. The high school takes great pride in having one of largest symphonic orchestras in the state and being represented nationally by the renowned HBDMB.
“It has been a truly amazing season for the 2024 HBDMB so far! The amount and dedication and passion these students have given to this program and this year’s production is incredibly inspiring. I would like to give a special thank you to our wonderful BPAH for all their support and love to the program and for assisting in operating a wonderful home show, as well as our District, Administration, Staff and Community members for all their support. Please join us for our Home Show on October 20th, 2024!” said Marching Band Coordinator Andre Rizzuto.
Co-President of the Band Parents Association of Huntington Ivy Soric said, “The home show has long been a crucial part of maintaining the Huntington Marching Band over the years. All proceeds from this year’s competition will go directly towards helping our kids, giving them the tools and support they need to continue participating in the activity they all love. My own children have been a part of this program for 10 years now, and each of them have been infinitely impacted by the Huntington Blue Devils Marching Band. We want to make every effort to continue to inspire all students for years to come.”
“The Huntington Blue Devil Marching Band is proud to present our show entitled Dia de los Muertos. This show symbolizes themes of remembrance, reunion, celebration and honoring our loved ones of the past. The students, staff and volunteers have dedicated countless hours to this event which will be sure to impress our audience,” adde Co-President of the Band Parents Association of Huntington Jen Simon. “Please join us at this fundraiser in which all proceeds support the Blue Devil Marching Band program. ”
For more information about the Huntington Blue Devil Marching Band from Huntington UFSD see: https://www.hufsd.edu/arts/marching.html
AND THEY'RE OFF!
Over 200 runners took part in this year's race through picturesque Stony Brook Village. Photo from Dan Kerr
Runners register in front of the Reboli Center. Photo from Dan Kerr
The crowd assembling in front of All Souls Church. Photo from Dan Kerr
The race was preceded by the National Anthem. Photo from Dan Kerr
Many runners came in costume. Photo from Dan Kerr
The Mario Brothers made an appearance at the race. Photo from Dan Kerr
Many runners came in costume and brought their dogs. Photo from Dan Kerr
Many runners came in costume and brought their dogs. Photo from Dan Kerr
Many runners came in costume. Photo from Dan Kerr
Mark McNulty and Dan Kerr
Felipe Garcia at the finish line. Photo from Dan Kerr
Margaret Kennedy with her award. Photo from Dan Kerr
Felipe Garcia and Margaret Kennedy with their awards
Hope Orcel with her medal. Photo from Dan Kerr
By Daniel Kerr
The sun shined brightly on the 200+ folks (not including the marching dogs) that gathered in front of Stanford White-designed All Souls Church in Stony Brook for the 16th Annual SOLES for All Souls 5K Race/2K Walk on Sunday, Oct. 6.
The large crowd included runners dressed as the Mario Brothers, Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head, “One and ½” bulldogs, butterflies, silver ballerinas, and three generations of skeletons.Retired Suffolk County Police Sargeant Mark McNulty played the bagpipes to inspire the runners as they began their trek up Hollow Road, and the North Shore Rockers played throughout Registration at the Reboli Center.Former Suffolk County Poet Laureate Richard Bronson led the annual march of the Live Poets Society, as Barbara Branca read the poems of Barbara Southard.
Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich joined All Souls’ own Brave Trio to sing the National Anthem, and our elected representatives thanked the runners and walkers for participating in this very special annual event to celebrate the role of All Souls in the community and to raise funds to make the church and accessible to all.The large amount of food collected as part of the All Souls “Lend a Hand, bring a Can” food outreach, was transported to St Gerard Majella’s food pantry in Terryville.
For the second consecutive year, Felipe Garcia from Brooklyn was the overall race winner with a time of 17:14 and Margaret Kennedy from Port Jefferson Station was the overall female winner with a time of 21:07. Race co-founder Mary Ellen Doris awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals at the Olympic-style ceremony to various age groups from 13 and under to 80 years and older. Six-year-old Hope Orcel from Stony Brook won the bronze for the female 13 and under group and eighty-five-year-old Rolf Sternglanz from Davie, Florida won the silver for the over 80 group of runners.
All of the volunteers and sponsors thank the community of runners, walkers, residents and students for their outpouring of love and support.
Stony Brook and Hofstra played to a 1-1 draw on Oct. 6 in Hempstead. The Seawolves went down early on, but Linn Beck scored the game-tying goal in the final minute of the first half, helping Stony Brook salvage another point against a CAA foe.
Hofstra took an early 1-0 lead with a goal in the 15th minute. Stony Brook had early opportunities from Luciana Setteducate and Beck that were turned away. Nicolette Pasquarella was challenged twice more down the stretch in the first half, stopping both chances from the Pride.
The Seawolves evened the match courtesy of Beck’s fifth goal of the season in the 45th minute. Setteducate assisted on the goal that ultimately closed the scoring for the afternoon
The Seawolves put forth the first five shots of the second half, seeing three turned away in the opening 13 minutes. Stony Brook controlled tempo all throughout the final 45 minutes, trying 13 total shots in the second half. Defensively, Stony Brook limited Hofstra to just one shot in the second half, which Pasquarella stopped. Hofstra’s goalkeeper turned away four shots to keep the match even and close out a draw.
“It’s never easy to play at Hofstra. They are a well-coached team. We started good but lost our way a little bit after they scored. Linn scored a beauty just before Halftime. At halftime we regrouped, got focused and played a very good second half,” head coach Tobias Bischof said. “We were unfortunate to not score a second goal.”
Members of the Long Island community, as well as friends of the HBDMB are invited, and tickets can be purchased at the door for $12. Students can purchase tickets for $5 with a valid student ID, and children under 10 enter for free. All proceeds from the event will go to Band Parents Association of Huntington, a not-for-profit organization and will benefit the Huntington Band program. The bi-annual HBDMB home show is a competition level show for New York State Field Band Conference and scores will count against the band’s standings in the Conference. Awards will be presented after the final performance.
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