Yearly Archives: 2025

SBU Sports: Softball secures complete-game shoutout in victory over Iona

by Press Release - March 21, 2025

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resize — #13 Crimson Rice twirled a complete-game, two-hit shutout during Wednesday's game. Photo from Stony Brook Athletics

Stony Brook softball shutout Iona, 2-0, on March 19 at University Field. Crimson Rice twirled a complete-game, two-hit shutout and Mia Vannelli powered the offense with a solo shot, the first of her collegiate career.

12 of the game’s first 13 batters were set down, with Iona tallying the lone hit over the first two full innings of play.

The Gaels advanced a runner to third base with two outs in the third, but Rice induced a grounder to short to neutralize the chance.

Stony Brook started the scoring in the bottom of the third. Malorie Hill, Kaiya Simpkins and Kyra McFarland all reached base after being hit by pitches. Naiah Ackerman plated the game’s first run with a single through the middle, but the Seawolves could not add anything more in the frame.

Vannelli added to the lead with her first collegiate homer in the fourth, putting Stony Brook ahead 2-0.

Rice retired 12 of the final 13 batters after being staked to a lead, allowing just one single over the final four innings, closing out a shutout victory.

“Really proud of our team for coming out and turning it around after yesterday and to play a complete ballgame today to get an important win for us,” head coach Megan T. Bryant said.

Up next, the team hosts Charleston this weekend in the CAA home-opening series. The three-game series begins on Friday, March 21. First pitch set for 1 pm at University Field.

Three Village Community Trust recognizes three outstanding community leaders

by Press Release - March 21, 2025

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unnamed — From left, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Korneich, Nancy Goroff, Amani Kahn, Maria Nardiello, and Trust President Peter Legakis. Photo by Gretchen Oldrin Mones

Awards, recognition and special proclamations went to Nancy Goroff, Amani Kahn and Maria Nardiello at the Three Village Community Trust’s Annual Membership Meeting on March 12. The trust expressed a deep appreciation of the honoree’s unique contributions to the community:

Maria Nardiello was recognized for her special role in the life of Three Villages and community affairs:

● Long time innkeeper and resident manager of the Setauket Neighborhood House.

● 25 years of providing welcoming and friendly hospitality and service to the Three Village Community.

● Over the years, her friendly professionalism has made the Neighborhood House the place for all community events.

● Providing a welcoming meeting place for all residents

● An enthusiastic booster of our Three Village community

● Always ready to assist in planning family and community events at the Setauket Neighborhood House

● Widely known as a caring, gracious, calming voice in every interaction with residents

● A steady, dependable and welcoming presence at the Neighborhood House

● A very likely ‘person of history’ in the story of the Three Villages for her remarkable role at the Inn

Amani Khan was honored for her help and support to the residents of Council District 1:

● Longtime senior Legislative Aide for Council District 1

● A beloved and respected staff member at the Town and to the entire District 1 community

● Known for her outstanding, dependable and efficient constituent service

● Recognized for her ability to easily navigate the complexities of the town’s many different offices, departments, codes and regulations

● Acknowledged as an expert in all issues impacting the Three Village community

● Engaged in all issues of the Three Village community and the surrounding area

● Well-known to residents for her honesty, integrity and steadiness in all things ‘Brookhaven’

● An unrivaled ability to use grace and understanding in all situations and at all times

Nancy Goroff was recognized for her advancements in education, art, culture and science:

● President of the Board of Gallery North, the largest non-profit art gallery on Long Island

● Treasurer and Co-Founder, Long Island Strong Schools Alliances

● Founding Board Member of the Institute for Digital Media and Child Development

● Past Chair of the Chemistry Department at Stony Brook University – a recognized leader in chemistry, materials science, and higher education.

● Gifted public servant with a track record of accomplishment as a leader, scientist and communicator.

● A history of building and managing diverse teams in a variety of disciplines. Demonstrating a longstanding commitment to community service and nonprofit organizations.

● Lifelong advocate for good government

● Outspoken leader in civic affairs

● A champion of rights for woman, children and the underserved and disenfranchised

● A fierce defender of the principles of fairness and compassion for all.

Man killed in Medford motor vehicle crash

by Press Release - March 20, 2025

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Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are investigating a crash that killed a man in Medford on March 20.

Wilfredo Garcia was driving a Medford Fire Department truck southbound on Route 112 when the vehicle struck a 2015 Dodge Dart traveling eastbound at the intersection of Express Drive South at approximately 12:35 p.m. The fire truck had its lights and sirens activated. Garcia, 50, of Medford, and two passengers in the fire truck were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Dodge, Jason Copper, 39, of Sound Beach, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Motor Carrier Section officers conducted a safety check on the fire truck at the scene, and it was impounded. The Dodge was impounded for a safety check.

Wantagh girl’s basketball secures championship title against Mount Sinai 54-30

by TBR Staff - March 20, 2025

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By Michael Scro

The Mount Sinai Mustangs met the Wantagh Warriors in the Long Island girls A basketball final game at Farmingdale State College on March 15.

The Mustangs entered the final after beating Islip on March 9. Wantagh presented fierce competition to Mount Sinai with their then 21-2 record.

Building on their 12-9 lead, Wantagh defeated the Mustangs 54-30, securing the championship title. Mount Sinai had their best performance in the third quarter, gaining 11 points, but it wasn’t enough of a comeback to reach the Warriors, who finished the quarter 12 points ahead. The Mount Sinai girls varsity basketball team ends their season with a 19-4 record.

— Photos by Michael Scro/Media Origin

Paw Prints: Meet Camila, Daisy, Cash, Bailey, Tomi and Sprinkles!

by Heidi Sutton - March 20, 2025

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Welcome to the 39th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home

Meet Camila

With a name associated with grace, beauty, and strength, meet Camila, a twelve(+) year old Chihuahua mix waiting at Little Shelter in Huntington for her soulmate. As often happens, with age comes wisdom, and this clever little lady knows her best days are still ahead of her. Initially shy and demure, it doesn’t take long before she settles into your lap for a chat and perhaps a quick nap, making herself right at home. Dainty, darling, and the dearest friend you could ask for, Camila is now ready to find her forever home. Will you be the lucky one to welcome her into your family? 631-368-8770

“A Chihuahua’s loyalty is as grand as its heart … small in size, but limitless in depth.”

*Camila is not completely housebroken*

Meet Daisy

Symbolizing cheerfulness and new beginnings, meet Daisy, a ten-year-old Mini Golden Doodle up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Fresh faced and free spirited, she radiates happiness, greeting each new acquaintance as another possible friend. Striking just the right balance between being active enough to maintain her girlish figure, while also easy going, so as not to jeopardize a good hair day, she would fit well into most family situations. You’ll want to stop by soon…a flower like Daisy is full of promise and would be the most adorable scene stealer on your holiday card! 631-368-8770

“A dog wags its tail with its heart.”

*Daisy is mostly housebroken and is good with dogs and cats.

Meet Cash

This 5 1/2-year-old brown lab mix has been at Save A Pet in Port Jefferson Station for over 1,400 days now. That is heartbreaking.

For almost four years, Cash has woken up in the same kennel, listening to the sounds of footsteps of potential adopters passing him by. He watches other dogs leave, tails wagging, excited for their new lives. But no one ever comes for him — he is officially growing old in the shelter. No dog should spend this long waiting. No dog should feel this forgotten. Cash doesn’t know what it’s like to have a home, a soft bed, or a person who loves him unconditionally. All he knows is waiting.

He loves other dogs, women, but needs time to warm up to men. He also needs a home without small children.

Somewhere out there is his new best friend. Could that be you? 631-473-6333

Meet Bailey

Bailey is a spirited and playful shepherd mix at the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter. At just around 2-years-old, she’s already faced more challenges than most, having been born with genetic malformations. Despite these hurdles, Bailey remains an incredibly happy and affectionate dog, blissfully unaware of her mobility issues. She will require lifelong care which include issues with her spine and dysplastic hips, as well as ongoing management for a mild heart murmur. Her future will involve regular check-ups and possibly some special accommodations, including softer food and careful handling. 631-451-6955

Meet Tomi and Sprinkles

These two lovely ladies arrived at the Smithtown Animal Shelter a month ago when their mom fell on hard times. At four years old, they have lived a life full of love and are looking for a nice, quiet home that will continue to show them that they are valued and adored. These sisters have always been together and rely on each other so it would be nice to have them adopted out together. Call 631-360-7575 to set up a meet and greet.

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‘Senior Spring Fling’

Did you know? For the entire month of April, the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, 300 Horseblock Road, Yaphank is waiving all adoption fees for all seniors pets (5 years old or older). The shelter is also offering free adoptions for ALL the pets for Easter Week — April 21 to April 25 — because everyone deserves a chance to find their forever home. Spread the word and help these sweet animals find their happily ever after! Donations of blankets are also appreciated. 631-451-6955

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

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of April 17.

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

Village of Port Jefferson dedicates roadway to honor late mayor, Robert T. Strong

by TBR Staff - March 20, 2025

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By Luciana Hayes

Saturday, March 15, family and friends of former Port Jefferson Mayor Robert T. Strong gathered near the entrance to Harborfront Park to witness the dedication of the new road being named in his honor on the five-year anniversary of his passing.

After passing in 2020, Strong was unable to have a proper memorial due to the rapid-spreading pandemic at hand.

Mayor Lauren Sheprow speaks of former Mayor Robert Strong on March 15. Photo by Luciana Hayes

Strong, born June 16, 1936, in New York City, was often described as being generous, kind and dedicated. He passed away March 15, 2020, after complications from lung cancer at age 83, but before his passing he lived a very fulfilling life. He attended SUNY Oswego where he met his wife of almost 50 years, Evelyn Strong. After graduating from Oswego, Strong became a middle school social studies teacher in 1958 in the South Country Central School District until becoming assistant principal in 1966. The Strongs, along with their two children, Robyn and Robert Jr., moved to Port Jefferson in 1968. In 1995 Strong was elected mayor with 835 votes after previously serving four years as a village trustee. He served as mayor for four years until 1999 and made lasting impacts that continue to benefit the Village of Port Jefferson.

Prior to Strong’s term as mayor, in the 1960s and 1970s, an oil company (now known simply as Mobil) existed on what is now known as Harborfront Park. The board of trustees of the Village of Port Jefferson attempted to purchase the land for $3 million, but the motion failed with a vote of 657 to 358. But Strong was determined to use the land for the good of the community. In 1997, the residents of Port Jefferson voted 738 to 131 to approve the village purchase of the Mobil property for $1.7 million. Following the purchase, Strong established a community-based volunteer group that further developed the land for the community and made it what it is today.

Mayor Lauren Sheprow led the dedication by explaining Strong’s impact on the community and his impact on his friends and family. Having known the Strong family growing up, Sheprow described her memories of Robert Strong. She said, “writing this history, this story of his work here in the village is really cathartic for me and I feel so fortunate to be able to do so.”

Father Frank Pizzarelli, the director of Hope House Ministries, led the blessing of the newly dedicated road. Having also known Strong, he contributed with a short and sweet speech about his friend, stating, “one of the things that impressed me about Bob was his dedication to service.”

Strong’s children, Robyn and Robert Jr., also spoke briefly about their father. Robert Strong Jr. said, “you know people say ‘I had the best dad and my dad was the best,’ I know this is a cliche but I had the best dad.”

The event concluded with the unveiling of the new road sign that now reads “Mayor Robert T. Strong Way” next to the entrance into the park that Strong fought so hard to develop. While his term as mayor was short, his impacts on the community will last many lifetimes.

For more information visit the Village of Port Jefferson website (www.portjeff.com).

73rd annual Miller Place-Rocky Point St. Patrick’s Day parade draws in thousands

by Julianne Mosher - March 20, 2025

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By Julianne Mosher

Route 25A in Miller Place was decorated in green with thousands of people from across Long Island excited for the 73rd annual Miller Place-Rocky Point St. Patrick’s Day parade.

On Sunday, March 16, the parade route began at Harrison Avenue in Miller Place with local fire departments, school districts and businesses marching east to Broadway in Rocky Point. This year’s co-grand marshals were John and Raymond O’Sullivan, whose father was the grand marshal exactly 60 years ago.

— Photos by Julianne Mosher

Adventureland to open for 2025 season March 22 with new rides, games

by Press Release - March 20, 2025

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Turbulence, one of many rides at Adventureland. Photo from Adventureland

Get a head start on your Spring fun this weekend! Adventureland in Farmingdale is gearing up for an exciting expansion with its 2025 Season which kicks off this weekend on March 22 and 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. As it begins its new season, Adventureland remains as popular as ever as a top tourist destination as recognized by Discover Long Island which just released a new video featuring the theme park as part of their Long Island Where You Belong campaign https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaNrGavMvfc

New ride Wave Twister will open later this spring. Photo from Adventureland

Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, is offering more value this year, and for the same ticket prices as last year. Earlier this year, the park announced it is freezing its admission rates, group rates, season pass rates, and birthday party rates at the same prices from the 2024 season.

“At a time when everything around us is going up, we are proud and excited to be able to provide our guests this price freeze on admission,” said Jeanine Gentile, Adventureland Park Manager. “We are still making additions to the park, so you will definitely see some great changes for this upcoming season. But one thing that will not be changing is the admission prices for the 2025 season!”

Moon Chaser is one of the newest rides visitors can enjoy. Photo from Adventureland

The price freeze is not the only exciting news from Adventureland. For the first time, the amusement park is offering payment plans through FlexPay for online orders of $100 or more. This brand-new option will allow visitors to book tickets and purchase season passes online—now—and conveniently pay over time. Daily tickets and season passes are currently available for purchase online at https://adventureland.us/?keyword=Tickets

Last year, Adventureland announced plans for a multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment. Now currently in phase 2, the amusement park promises a ‘Bigger and Better’ 2025 season, which includes two new outdoor games: ‘Wave Blaster’ and ‘Jungle Run.’ Additionally, plans are in place to install three new concession stands and a third restroom facility. Especially exciting is the highly-anticipated new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ scheduled to open later this spring.

Adventureland is located at 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale. For more information, call 631-694-6868 or visit Adventureland.us.

Attorney At Law: Nursing homes and protecting the homestead

by Britt Burner, Esq - March 20, 2025

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assisted-living-nursing-home-requirements — Stock photo

By Britt Burner, Esq. & Brittni Sullivan, Esq.

The biggest concern that most have when they are in need of long-term nursing home care is that their primary residence will not be protected. This may or may not be true. There are special rules surrounding the home that are different than other types of assets.

To understand this fear, it is important to understand how one becomes eligible for Medicaid to assist with nursing home costs. The applicant is permitted to have countable assets in the amount of $32,396, retirement assets in any amount so long as the retirement account is set up for a monthly distribution, and a pre-paid irrevocable burial.

Applying for this program also involves a five-year lookback. This requires the applicant and spouse to provide full financial disclosure for the five-year period immediately prior to institutionalization. The purpose of the lookback is to see if the applicant or spouse transferred any assets out of their names. If transfers were made, there will be a legal presumption that this was done for the purpose of applying for Medicaid, and a penalty will be assessed. The penalty will result in a time of ineligibility for services.

However, there are certain transfers that are exempt and will not draw a penalty, this includes transfers of any assets to a spouse or to a blind or disabled child. Specifically for the primary residence, transfers are exempt when made to a spouse, blind or disabled child of the applicant, a sibling with an equity interest in the home, or to a caretaker child.

A caretaker child is defined as a child who has resided in the primary residence with the Medicaid applicant for the two years immediately prior to institutionalization and who, during that time has provided some level of care support to the individual who requires nursing home care. Medicaid will closely scrutinize the transfer and ask for supporting documentation to prove residency for the caretaker child.

For several reasons, this type of planning is best used in crisis planning and is not an advanced planning technique. First, there may be adverse tax consequences when you transfer the real property to the caretaker child. Second, transfer to the caretaker child could thwart your estate plan to leave assets to multiple beneficiaries. Last, the transfer to the caretaker child can only happen immediately prior to your institutionalization. Therefore, if the child is moved out at the time you require nursing home care, the exemption is lost.

The fear of losing the home is common. Planning in advance can help ensure the primary residence is protected.

Britt Burner, Esq., Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., concentrates her practice in Estate Planning and Elder Law. Brittni Sullivan, Esq., Senior Associate at the firm, also focuses on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Burner Prudenti Law serves clients from Manhattan to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, New York City and East Hampton.

Port Jefferson Free Library unveils new Teen Center

by Heidi Sutton - March 20, 2025

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By Heidi Sutton

It’s been 10 years in the making but it was all worth it when the doors to the new Port Jefferson Free Library Teen Center swung open after a ribbon cutting event on March 14. A large crowd, including Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, attended the celebration which continued into the evening and at an Open House on March 15.

According to a press release, the library purchased the 1812 Bayles house at 205 East Main Street 10 years ago with plans of turning the former “Scented Cottage” store into a Teen Center which had been operating out of a rental space across the street from the library.

New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich present certificates to staff of the Port Jefferson Free Library. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

A designated “Safe Space,” the new Teen Center features “multiple small rooms offering teens the ability to browse the library’s book, video and game collections, get homework and college application help, play board and video games, access craft supplies or participate in the busy schedule of program offerings,” according to the release. The Center, which is geared for teens in grades 6-12, also features a 3-D printer, homework stations and laptop computers.

Working with BBS Architecture and Belfor Property Restoration, the library preserved much of the building’s charm, including 5 fireplaces, a beehive oven, the front “Dutch Door,” and the original pine floors. A covered front porch was added after Kate Von der Heyden of the Port Jefferson Historical Society shared historic photos which showed a previously existing Greek Revival-style porch. Amendments include a wheelchair lift and wider doorways.

“The reputation of this institution transcends the boundaries of the village. This is a draw for kids not just in this community but all the surrounding communities. I want to thank you for putting this together and for doing it in such a sensitive way that it maintains the streetscape and the look and feel of the village; it is such a great enhancement,” said Councilmember Kornreich.

“I am so grateful to this library board, to the leadership here and to the community for having the foresight to obtain this historic building, maintain it and renovate so that it can continue to be part of the beating heart of our library system and be a safe, wonderful and fun place for the teens,” said Assemblywoman Kassay.

“… So proud to walk through these doors for the first time and see what’s inside. I want to use it! There’s a nook and cranny for everything. I’m so glad that my nieces and my nephews and their friends will be able to use it as they come through middle school into the high school … It’s an incredible facility and what a great resource for them,” said Mayor Sheprow, who went on to thank Head of Teen Services Sal Filosa and Library Director Jenny Bloom for bringing the Teen Center to fruition.

“Growing from our one-room rental space to multiple rooms with a covered porch offers a variety of spaces for teens to relax, do homework, play games, or create art. We hope they consider the Teen Center to be their new ‘home away from home,” said Filosa.

“The restoration of the Bayles House and development of the new Teen Center has been the dream of a decade of Board Trustees, Staff, and community members, and the Library is very proud to welcome the community to the grand opening, and for teens for generations to come,” added Bloom.

The Teen Center is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-509-5707.

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