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Yearly Archives: 2025

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From left, Linda Lugo accepts her award from Sylvia Ryndock, NYSAR 2025 Awards Committee Chair. Photo courtesy of New York State Association of REALTORS®

The New York State Association of REALTORS® (NYSAR) honored Linda Lugo of Huntington with the 2024 Community Service Award for her dedication and commitment to animal rescue in Long Island during the association’s “Opportunity Awaits” Mid-Winter Business Meetings at the Crowne Plaza Albany–Desmond Hotel in Albany from Feb. 3 to 6.

The NYSAR Community Service Award recognizes REALTORS’® community involvement supporting initiatives aimed at a community’s youth, improving the quality of education, quality of life for older Americans, homelessness prevention, as well as efforts following natural disasters and other community needs.

For over a decade, Lugo, a member of the Long Island Board of REALTORS®, has been instrumental in helping displaced animals across Long Island and beyond, find homes. Her journey began just after Superstorm Sandy when Long Island was devastated and many people, and their pets, were without homes. Lugo helped care for pets that were left behind or unable to be reunited with their owners. In less than a year, Lugo helped care for over 400 dogs.

Since then, Lugo started “Animal Response and Rescue Coalition,” a non-profit organization which helps teach first responders how to work with animals during a disaster. She has also fostered over 40 dogs in her own home, working with Proud Rescuers of Puerto Rico, who help abandoned dogs and cats find their forever homes in the United States.

“I am honored to receive this award because it helps to bring greater awareness to what is happening to dogs, cats, and other animals in places like Puerto Rico,” said Lugo. “I thank the Awards Committee from the bottom of my heart for this award. It means the world to me!”

Along with an inscribed award, a grant of $1,500 will also be made in Lugo’s name to a charity of her choice.

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Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff’s office.
Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff’s office.
Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff’s office.

On Friday, Feb. 14 Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. recognized Brooke DiPalma and Jaimie DiPalma as the recipients of the Community Leadership Award for their extraordinary dedication to mental health awareness and suicide prevention through P.S. I Love You Day. 

On April 23, 2010, Brooke and Jaimie experienced an unimaginable loss when their father, Joseph DiPalma, died by suicide. In the wake of their grief, they turned their pain into a powerful movement for change. Inspired by their father’s final words, “I love you,” Brooke, with the support of her family and high school community, founded P.S. I Love You Day. Held annually on the second Friday of February, the initiative encourages people to wear purple as a sign of unity against bullying, a commitment to ending depression and a message of hope for suicide prevention. 

P.S. I Love You Day has grown into a nationwide movement, fostering conversations about mental health and spreading kindness in schools, workplaces and communities. Through their efforts, Brooke and Jaimie have provided a platform for support and awareness, reminding individuals that they are never alone. 

Each month, Sheriff Toulon presents the Community Leadership Award to recognize Suffolk County residents who go above and beyond to better their communities and provide support to those in need. 

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Sebastian

Welcome to the 38th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home

Sebastian

Meet Sebastian

With a name lengthier than he is, meet Sebastian, a twelve(+) year old Chihuahua mix at Little Shelter in Huntington. Small, but substantial, this venerable statesman has quickly won the admiration of everyone at the shelter for his confident, charming demeanor. The self-appointed activities director in the small dog kennel, he ensures everyone has the best time while waiting to find forever homes. A big fan of sing-alongs, he has perfect pitch as well as the answer to the age old question of “Who Let the Dogs Out?” If you want to be in the know and start your weekend on a good note, stop by to meet Sebastian today! 631-368-8770

*Sebastian is fully grown and not completely housebroken*

Sheldon

Meet Sheldon

“Tiny but mighty, Chihuahuas embody the strength of a lion in the body of a mouse.”

Small, spirited, and social, meet Sheldon, a one year old Chihuahua mix up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Bringing plenty of laughs to the table, young Sheldon will always keep you on your toes and entertained with his comical personality. Also seriously intelligent, he is confident in his math skills and knows that breaking one treat in half does not equal two! Always ready for an adventure, even if it’s just a walk around the shelter grounds, he’ll greet you with enthusiasm each time. The bottom line: if you’re looking for a smart, funny, loyal companion who will make each day better, Sheldon fits the bill and then some…see you soon! 631-368-8770

*Sheldon is fully grown and not housebroken

Riley

Meet Riley

Valentine’s Day has come and gone and Riley is still waiting at the Smithtown Animal Shelter for her one true love to give her the loving home she deserves. Estimated to be about 3 years old, this 60 pound black shepherd mix needs to be the only pet in the home. This sweet girl is beyond loving, smart and active. She is slow to trust new people and needs a family that can help her manage new introductions. However, once she loves you, she will show off all of her tricks and ask for love all day long. 631-360-7575

Chanel

Meet Chanel

Chanel is a 2-year-old mixed breed at Brookhaven Animal Shelter who is ready to find her forever home! With her athletic build and energetic personality, she thrives on playtime and outdoor adventures. Chanel loves to run and play in the shelter’s playpens, and would love a big, fenced-in yard where she can burn off all her energy. She would do best in a home with kids 16 and older. She’s got a heart full of potential and would thrive in an experienced, active household where she can get the attention and exercise she loves. Come meet her and see how much fun life could be with this sweet and energetic girl by your side! 631-451-6955

Negan

Meet Negan

This big handsome two-year-old boy is Negan, up for adoption at Kent Animal Shelter in Calverton. Sweet and cuddly, with the softest fur, he began showing up in a feral colony a few months ago. The feeder gained his trust and was able to pet him and eventually pick him up. He was taken to a vet but did not have a microchip. Due to his gentle nature, the feeder did not want to leave him in the colony. With his curious eyes and loving personality, he’s ready to bring warmth and joy to a new home. If you’re looking for a companion to cuddle up with this winter, Negan might be the purrfect match! Adopt a cat — they’re the best! 631-727-573

DID YOU KNOW? 

For the entire month of February, the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, 300 Horseblock Road, Yaphank is waiving all adoption fees for animals who have been in the shelter 6 months or longer — because everyone deserves a chance to find their forever home. Let’s spread the love and help these sweet animals find their happily ever after! 631-451-695

Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of March 20.

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

 

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Wegmans in Lake Grove is the first to open on Long Island. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

The wait is finally over. Wegmans Food Markets has announced that it will celebrate the grand opening of its Lake Grove store on Wednesday, Feb. 26 with a ribbon cutting set for 9 a.m. Located at 3270 Middle Country Road in the DSW Plaza, the 101,000 square-foot supermarket will be Wegmans’ first on Long Island. 

“We have been actively hiring and training new employees and are excited to open our doors on Feb. 26 to serve the Lake Grove community,” said store manager Dawn Cooper in a press release. 

Located in the former Fairway Market  space, the new store will employ more than 500 people in full- and part-time positions and will feature restaurant-style foods at its Market Café including sushi, pizza, chef-made salads, and sandwiches; along with a hot self-serve bar; a large produce department; and a wide variety of seafood, meat, bakery, deli, and cheese options. 

There will be an equal number of full-service and self-checkout registers and plenty of parking. Casanova the Rooster,  the company’s mascot, will greet customers at the top of every hour and there is a designated seating area to enjoy eat-in meals.

Before even opening, the Lake Grove leadership team has been focused on building relationships and getting to know and support the local community. 

Over the summer, fall, and holiday season, the team participated in festivals, volunteered at local food pantries, and sponsored the annual Pictures with Santa display at the Smith Haven Mall. 

They also formed a partnership with Long Island Cares and Island Harvest to improve food security for local families through their annual Check Out Hunger scanning and by providing donations three days a week to the food banks through their perishable pick-up program. 

“With Wegmans’ help, we will be better able to support those on Long Island experiencing hunger, including families, children, seniors, veterans, unhoused individuals, and others who need assistance,” said Bob LaBarbara of Long Island Cares.

To date, the store team has donated nearly $30,000 to over two dozen local non-profit organizations and events, including United Way of Long Island, Village of Lake Grove for the Summer and Harvest Festivals, Ronkonkoma Fire Department, Suffolk Community College Foundation, Sachem Teen Center, and United Veterans Beacon House.

“It is such a warm and welcoming community; we are enjoying getting to know the people who live here,” said Cooper. “From volunteering at events to sponsoring them, the team has done a great job building connections in the area, and we are excited to have those connections grow.”

Based in upstate Rochester, the regional supermarket chain operates over 100 locations along the east coast. The family company celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016. 

After Wednesday’s 9 a.m. opening, the Lake Grove store will be open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. For more information, call 631-285-1300.

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Diet and exercise are the first line of defense for those living with diabetes. Stock photo

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and the Department of Health Services invite residents who are at risk of developing type-2 diabetes to participate in the Suffolk County Diabetes Prevention Program. The program is based off of the National Diabetes Prevention Program that supports moderate behavioral changes and incorporates healthy eating and physical activity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 98 million American adults — more than 1 in 3 — are at risk for diabetes.

“We want our residents to be healthy and live fulfilling lives,” said Romaine. “We encourage all adult residents to take a one-minute risk survey to learn if they are at risk for prediabetes. Through educational programming and preventative measures, we are here to help you reduce your risk.”

“Diabetes puts the body at risk for many serious health conditions,” said Dr. Gregson Pigott, Suffolk County Health Commissioner. “The good news is that moderate changes in lifestyle can help restore blood sugar to normal levels and result in significant health benefits.”

The Suffolk County Diabetes Prevention Program has received “full plus” recognition from the CDC, meeting the agency’s highest standards. To date, 440 Suffolk County residents have successfully completed the program.

Residents are encouraged to take the one-minute risk test at www.doihaveprediabetes.org and are invited to attend informational sessions at:

— Smithtown Public Library, 148 Smithtown Blvd, Nesconset on Feb. 24 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

— Brookhaven Free Library, 273 Beaver Dam Road, Brookhaven on Wednesday, March 12 from noon to 1 p.m. 

— Center Moriches Public Library, 235 Main Street, Center Moriches on March 19 from noon to 1 p.m. 

— Patchogue/Medford Library, 54-60 East Main Street, Patchogue on March 28 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. 

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Photo from Vanderbilt Museum

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will welcome back Anthony Marinello, owner of Dropseed Native Landscapes Native Plant Nursery and a bird-habitat specialist, to speak on supporting native backyard songbirds on Sunday, February 23, from 11 a.m. to noon.

Songbirds add beauty and delight to our world. Backyard bird watching and feeding is a cherished tradition for many who appreciate our feathered friends. Marinello will give a presentation on how to support common backyard songbirds with native plants, bird feeders, and other habitat elements. Afterward, participants will make pinecone feeders.

Marinello is a New York State Certified Nursery and Landscape Professional as well as a Certified National Audubon Habitat and Ecosystems Land Professional.

Beth Laxer-Limmer, Director of Education, said, “The Museum is excited to have Anthony Marinello back to share his knowledge of native birds and plants and how we can create a backyard ecosystem for songbirds.”

For adults and children 10 and up. Participating children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Fee is $25 per person, $22 members.

Register

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Chopped Chicken Taco Salad

By Heidi Sutton

As kids and parents return to busy schedules full of sports, homework and weeknight activities after winter break, building a plan for nutritious and easy meals can be challenging. 

Piecing together a menu that fuels active minds without spending hours in the kitchen is a common goal for many families. 

For a customizable kid-pleaser, turn to Chopped Chicken Taco Salad and garnish with your family’s favorite toppings. This recipe require minimal prep and calls for on-hand ingredients that provide nutrients people of all ages need to grow and maintain strong bodies and minds. 

Chopped Chicken Taco Salad

Recipe courtesy of Megan Gundy on behalf of Milk Means More

Chopped Chicken Taco Salad

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

For the Dressing

1 cup yogurt, plain Greek

1/3 cup milk, buttermilk

1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lime juice

3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

For the Salad

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 head leaf lettuce, chopped

1 avocado, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn

1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped

1 cup cheese, Monterey Jack or Mexican shredded cheese

tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips, for topping

DIRECTIONS:

To make the dressing: Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust lime juice and cilantro as needed. If dressing is too thick, add buttermilk one teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

To make the salad: Season the chicken on both sides with the taco seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Add chicken to the pan and cook on both sides until the outside is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken to a cutting board and slice into strips.

To build the salad, heap the chopped lettuce on a large platter. Sprinkle the chicken over top. Add the avocado, beans, corn, tomatoes and shredded cheese. Drizzle the dressing on top and sprinkle on the tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips right before serving.

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Board of Education meetings are typically held at William J. Brosnan School. Photo credit GoogleMaps

By Dylan Friedman

The Northport-East Northport Union Free School District Board of Education met Feb. 13 to discuss the district’s proposed budget for the upcoming school year. The meeting covered various topics, including the district’s five-year technology plan, facilities upgrades and security initiatives.

Technology investments

A significant focus of the meeting was the district’s five-year technology plan, presented by Director of Technology David Leis. 

“Every technology investment we make is aligned with instructional purpose and keeping student-centric decision-making in mind,” Leis explained. 

The plan outlines a strategic approach to upgrading the district’s technology infrastructure, including modernizing the fiber backbone, enhancing cybersecurity measures and expanding wireless capabilities to support digital learning and assessments. 

“As we move more into a digital world, making sure our wireless network is robust and can keep up with the demands of all the mobile devices and online experiences is necessary to support our students,” Leis said.

The technology budget also includes funding for the district’s one-to-one device program, which provides students with laptops or tablets.

 “We’ve developed a strategic plan to cycle in new devices for grades one, five and nine each year, aligning with key transition points in a student’s educational journey,” Leis noted.

Facilities upgrades

The district’s facilities and operations team outlined several capital projects and upgrades planned for the upcoming year. These include installing split-unit air-conditioning systems and heat pumps in large shared spaces such as cafeterias and auditoriums. 

“We’re focused on creating equitable access to air-conditioned spaces across the district, so students have a comfortable environment for learning, especially during high-stakes testing,” John Lackner, buildings and grounds director, said.

Other facility improvements include restroom renovations, swipe card access for classrooms and upgrades to the district’s intercom and fire alarm systems. 

Superintendent David Moyer explained, “We’re really trying to create learning environments that are conducive to our instructional priorities. “

Security initiatives

The district’s security team, led by John McEnroe, presented several security-focused initiatives in the proposed budget. This includes extending the district’s blue strobe lockdown system to interior spaces such as gymnasiums and auditoriums and adding a new server to expand video storage capacity for the security camera network.

“The most important layer of security is training and developing our staff,” McEnroe stated. “We provide ongoing training in areas like de-escalation, threat assessment and emergency response planning.”

Transportation enhancements

The transportation department, supervised by Patricia McGrane, is also slated for improvements. The budget includes funding for two additional full-time bus drivers, allowing the district to use more of its own fleet of buses rather than relying on contracted services.

“When we can use our own large buses, we save tens of thousands of dollars compared to contracting out,” McGrane explained. 

The department is also implementing a new “way-finder” system to provide bus drivers with voice-activated turn-by-turn directions.

Recap

The proposed budget reflects the district’s commitment to investing in technology, facilities, security and transportation to support student learning and well-being. 

As Moyer emphasized, “These investments are not just about numbers, but about how we can best support the educational experience for our students.”

The board will continue to review and refine the budget proposal in the coming months before presenting it to the community for a vote.

For more information visit www.northport.k12.ny.us.

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Stock photo
Bernadette Bergholm

Bernadette Bergholm of Northport died on Feb. 4 at 87 years of age. She was the beloved mom of David Bergholm, Gary, Lorraine Rossi,and the late Stephen; the loving grandma of Stephen Jr., Anthony, Ryan, Hailey, Jack and the late Kyle; and the cherished great grandmother of Stephen. She is predeceased by her dear sisters Baby Mae, Catherine Wilhelm and Margaret Dolan-Lief.

Bergholm worked for 35 plus years in the real estate industry for several local Real Estate firms as a broker and most recently Douglas Elliman in Cold Spring Harbor.

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