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Yearly Archives: 2025

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Philip Walker
Philip Walker Faces 20 Years in Prison

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 18 that Philip Walker, 58, of Mastic, pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, for stabbing his housemate, 63-year-old Jimmy Vaughn, three times with a knife. During the attack, Walker fatally pierced the victim’s heart.

“This conviction ensures accountability for a senseless act of violence that claimed a life,” said District Attorney Tierney. “While no sentence can bring the victim back to his friends and family, I hope that they can find some solace knowing that his killer was held criminally responsible for his actions.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on

June 30, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Walker fatally stabbed the victim inside a room at the Shirley Motel on Montauk Highway. When paramedics arrived, Vaughn was found outside of room, bleeding from the left side of his chest and abdomen. Vaughn was taken to Long Island Community Hospital, where doctors tried but failed to repair the hole in his heart. He was pronounced dead at approximately 6:20 p.m.

Walker fled from the motel after the incident, but Suffolk County Police officers arrested him on July 2, 2023, at a family member’s home in North Amityville.

On February 14,  Walker pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony, before Acting Supreme Court Justice Karen M. Wilutis. Walker is expected to be sentenced to 20 years in prison. He is due back in court on March 25, 2025, and is being represented by Eric Besso, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Dena Rizopoulos of the Homicide Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective David Gelsomino of Suffolk County Police Department’s Homicide Squad.

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Do you recognize these two women? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Polce Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate two women who allegedly stole from a Setauket store in January.

Two women allegedly stole a comforter from Target, located at 265 Pond Path, at approximately 6:05 p.m. on January 18.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

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Hoyt Farm's interpretive specialist Sheryl Brook explains the process of maple sugaring to Hauppauge Girl Scouts Troop 428 during a previous year's event. Photo from Town of Smithtown

The annual, educational Maple Sugaring classes are back at Hoyt Farm. The highly anticipated program will run on three Sundays: February 23rd, March 2nd, and March 9th, from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, located at 200 New Highway in Commack. Tickets are just $5 per person (cash only), with classes being open to the general public. Due to high demand, it is recommended that guests arrive by 1 p.m. to register.

Hoyt Farm Park Manager Jeff Gumin teaches a group about tree tapping at a previous event.
File photo by Greg Catalano/TBR News Media

“This is one of our Town’s finest and wildly popular educational programs, and it’s an experience every resident should take part in. The techniques used to make maple syrup are a cherished part of our history. Jeff Gumin, Sheryl Brook, and the entire Hoyt Farm team go above and beyond with their demonstration, making it an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend for the entire family,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

The Maple Sugaring Program covers the history of maple sugaring, from its discovery by Native Americans to modern-day techniques. The program includes a special interactive portion for younger participants to learn about tree anatomy, chlorophyll’s role in sap production, and photosynthesis in maple syrup creation.

A unique feature of Hoyt Farm’s program is that Black Walnut trees are tapped alongside traditional Maple trees. To produce the sweetest sap, temperatures must remain below freezing at night and above 40 degrees during the day, which typically occurs during the late February to early March sugaring season.

Program Highlights:

  • Historical and Educational Demonstration: Learn the full process of making maple syrup and its importance throughout history.
  • Interactive Learning for Kids: Hands-on learning about tree anatomy, sap production, and photosynthesis.
  • Family-Oriented Experience: Open to all age groups and popular amongst school groups, scout troops, families, and nature lovers alike.

The Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve’s maple sugaring program began in the late 1970s as a single class and has since grown into an interactive, family-friendly experience open to the general public.

For questions about this and other programs at Hoyt Farm, call: (631) 543-7804. 

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Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL
Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL
Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL
Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL

Train enthusiasts had a “choo choo” of a fun time when they visited the Railroad Museum of Long Island’s toy train display at Middle Country Public Library in Centereach on Feb. 15 and Feb. 16. With 1,400 in attendance, patrons enjoyed watching a variety of trains running in addition to interacting with museum staff and volunteers who shared their expertise. One of the highlights was the toy train clinic that was offered.

For more information about programs and classes held at Middle Country Public Library, please visit https://www.mcplibrary.org or call at 631-585-9393.

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Photo by J. Marcus
Photo by J. Marcus

The Resurrection Byzantine Catholic Church, 38 Mayflower Ave., Smithtown will host its annual Pysanky egg decorating class in the Church Hall on Sunday, March 23 from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Make a traditional Ukrainian egg to take home!

Designed for all skill levels, each participant will be required to bring an unscented candle in a holder, pencils and paper towels. Starter kits must be purchased for $15. Other supplies such as styluses, wax, etc. will be available for purchase. Class fee $20.

Registration is due by March 10. To reserve your spot, please call Joanne at 631-332-1449 (leave a message).

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Pictured from left, Senior Citizens Dept. Director Doreen Perrino, Christopher Okrent, Kevin Morrow, Mary Hyland (Senior Center Staff). Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Smithtown Senior Citizen Center was recently the focus of a heartfelt and insightful college paper written by Christopher Okrent, a 25-year-old student at St. Joseph’s University in Patchogue, majoring in Human Services. For his assignment, Christopher was tasked with studying and writing about an organization that provides social interaction, recreation, and essential services to those in need. Choosing the Smithtown Senior Citizen Center was a personal decision—Christopher had witnessed firsthand the positive impact the center had on his own grandparents.

“It was an incredible honor when Christopher asked to visit the center to gather information for his college paper. Christopher is such an outstanding young gentleman. He shared with staff member, Mary Hyland and myself that he is pursuing a career in Human Services because of his passion for helping people and doing good. I enjoyed reminiscing with him about his lovely Grandparents and how his Grandmother, Martha, was known around the center as the Wii Bowling Champion!” said Doreen Perrino, Director at the Smithtown Senior Center.

Christopher’s grandparents, Martha and Paul Okrent, were center patrons. After Paul’s passing, Martha Okrent found solace and companionship through the friendships she built at the center. Christopher recalls how much comfort the center provided to his grandmother, helping her navigate life after the loss of her beloved husband. According to Christopher, the friendships she made with the staff and senior center members helped her cope with her grief tremendously.

“This was wonderful news to learn of, although I’m not surprised. The team at the Smithtown Senior Center is more than just staff—they are family and they treat every member as their own kin. They know every member by name, remember their grandkids, favorite hobbies, and even the incredible stories from their past. Whether it’s celebrating a birthday, reminiscing about cherished memories, or simply sharing a laugh over a cup of coffee, the staff goes above and beyond to create a warm and welcoming place where every senior feels valued, heard, and truly at home. I’m truly honored to congratulate Christopher and extend my deepest gratitude for highlighting the senior center in such a meaningful essay—one that will undoubtedly influence the next chapter of his life journey,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

Chris and his brothers taught their Grandmother Martha how to play Nintendo Wii Bowling, and Martha was able to perfect her skills at the Smithtown Senior Citizens Center. She quickly became a skilled player, frequently competing against her friend Kevin Morrow, whom she taught to play. While visiting the center for his assignment, Christopher had the opportunity to reconnect with Kevin, sharing fond memories of Martha. Kevin fondly recalled the friendly rivalry, never forgetting how often Martha bested him at Wii bowling.  Martha was also an active book club member and enjoyed many lunches with friends at the center.

After his paper was turned in and graded, Christopher reunited with the team and the members at the Smithtown Senior Citizen Center along with his mother to announce that he got an A on the assignment. The Smithtown Senior Citizen Center remains a place of friendship, engagement, and support, and Christopher’s project serves as a testament to the lasting impact the center has on the lives of its members and their families.

How To Join the Smithtown Senior Center: Smithtown residents, ages 60 years and older can join (no fee is required) by filling out a brief application on-site, along with proof of residency such as a driver’s license. A membership card and welcome packet will be provided, along with a tour of the facility by a Senior Center Club Leader. The welcome packet includes a current calendar of activities, classes, and events, as well as brochures for services and amenities available exclusively for members.

Located at 420 Middle Country Road in Smithtonn, the Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center offers a wide array of activities, clubs and programming geared towards improving quality of life for residents, ages 60 years or older. Every day, the center offers a full schedule of arts, fitness, and wellness programming. Members can choose to join a variety of clubs, from gardening, quilting and book clubs to one of seven social clubs, featuring Casino & Theater outings, luncheons, parties, community advocacy and volunteer opportunities. In addition to a wealth of entertaining programming, the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department offers a variety of at home maintenance and repairs services.

The Senior Center is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (July & August Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) Lunch is served daily. Transportation is also available for members. For questions or additional information, please call  (631) 360-7616 or for Transportation: (631) 265-8811.

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Rhona Tarrant

Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism presents its annual Marie Colvin Distinguished Lecture in the Wang Center Theater, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook on Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. with a reception at 5:30 p.m.

Guest speaker Rhona Tarrant, Executive Editor of CBS News Confirmed, will present a lecture titled The New Battlefield: Open Source Investigations Into Conflict and Disinformation.

Social media has transformed conflict reporting, elevating open-source investigations to a core part of modern journalism. These techniques allow journalists to verify events in real time, supporting the indispensable work of on-the-ground reporting.

At the same time, state-backed disinformation campaigns have become increasingly sophisticated, blurring the lines of reality and driving greater demand for rigorous fact-checking and verification.

Tarrant will examine the rising prominence of open-source verification in conflict reporting and outline the critical tools required for the next generation of journalists.

The event is free and open to the public. All are welcome. No reservations necessary, but encouraged by clicking here. For more information, call 631-632-7403.

 

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Photo from The Jazz Loft

The Bad Little Big Band, a staple at The Jazz Loft in Stony Brook, has announced that in 2025, the band will be performing on the third Thursday every other month with themed shows, featuring the 12-piece band, directed by composer, arranger and pianist Rich Iacona, and featuring vocalist Madeline Kole.

The band’s first performance of 2025 will be “Our Kind Of Broadway” on Thursday, February 20 at 7 p.m. The BLBB will perform the classic Broadway repertoire done in the BLBB swinging fashion, with all music arranged and conducted by Iacona. Other themes for the coming year’s schedule include: Movie Songs We Get to Hear”; “The Music of Harold Arlen”; “The Music of George Gershwin”; “Slightly Latin” ( Bossas, Rhumbas and Jobim); “Pop Goes the Jazz Tunes” (great pop favorites done in jazz style).

Kole a vocalist, bassist and bandleader, recently completed her latest recording, DON’CHA GO ‘WAY MAD… which is a collection of 14 of her favorite standards.

The Bad Little Big Band was started in 1979 by Iacona, who arranged and composed the band’s repertoire. The group made two recordings in the 1980’s- “Painter of Dreams” and “A Long Way to Go,” which received much airplay and notoriety over the years. Many of the original musicians are still with the group and Iacona has added to the repertoire with many new and fresh compositions. The Bad Little Big Band has featured many great soloists, with Kole being one of the band’s favorites. Fans can look forward to a new collection this year from Iacona.

The Jazz Loft is home to not one, but THREE big bands in residence that perform monthly. The Bad Little Big Band appears on the third Thursday every other month throughout 2025.

Tickets for the Jazz Loft Bad Little Big Band performance are $30, $25, $20 $15.  The Jazz Loft is located at 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook.

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File photo

Update: The man found deceased in Central Islip on Feb. 18 has been identified as Candido Guadalupe Saravia Martinez, a 39-year-old Salvadoran national. Three men, Brayan Heredia Escobar, 19, of Guatemala; Jhon Lopez Campos, 18, of El Salvador; and Julio Beltran, 39, of El Salvador have been arrested for his murder.

Below is the original press release:

Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man found in Central Islip on Feb. 18.

An adult male was found deceased inside a tent-like enclosure on the southside of Suffolk Avenue, near Carleton Avenue, at approximately 12:30 p.m. The preliminary investigation and exam were
inconclusive regarding the cause of death. The cause of death for the man, who has not yet been identified by police, will be determined by an autopsy to be conducted by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392 or Crime Stoppers
at 1-800-220-TIPS.

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Dr. Arif Ahmad

St. Charles Hospital, 200 Belle Terre Road, Port Jefferson will hold a free patient education seminar on acid reflux in the St. Raphael Conference Room, 2nd Floor, on Wednesday, Feb. 26 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Want to reduce dependency on medications? Concerned about side effects of medications? Regurgitate in spite of medications? Dr. Arif Ahmad, Director, Acid Reflux and Hiatal Hernia Center of Excellence at St. Charles Hospital, will discuss permanent solutions for acid reflux with minimally invasive surgical procedures that will improve your quality of life. Light refreshments will be served. 

To register, call 631-474-6797.

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