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Dylan Friedman

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By Dylan Friedman

Northport-East Northport Union Free School District Board of Education held a meeting Jan. 23 to provide an initial overview of the district’s budget planning for the 2025-2026 school year. Superintendent David Moyer and Assistant Superintendent for Business Bob Howard presented details on the budget development process, expenditure projections, revenue sources and long-term financial planning.

“The objectives for the presentation are to provide an overview of timelines and the budget development process, review expenditures and five-year budget and facilities projections, and review anticipated revenue and levy history,” Moyer explained.

One key challenge the district faces is the shifting tax burden due to the LIPA settlement. As Moyer stated, “We recognize the challenges of the shifting tax burden to our community due to the LIPA settlement, and are sensitive to being as fiscally responsible as possible while maintaining the quality of programming that the community expects.”

The administration is also closely monitoring staffing levels amid declining enrollment. “This year, it is possible that the district may need to assess some staff to meet its programming needs and levy a budget target,” said  Moyer.

Providing an overview of the district’s five-year budget history, Howard noted that while personnel services costs have seen modest increases, the district has made continual reductions in staffing. “The fact that the total cost, despite those contractual increases, is only increasing by an average of 0.2% is illustrative of and showing the facts that there have been staffing and salary reductions,” he explained.

However, contractual expenses and employee benefits have faced higher inflationary pressures. As Howard stated, “These are the costs that are driving a lot of our budget increases so salaries are flat or relatively low. Contractual costs are inflationary sensitive areas [and] are higher than average.”

Looking ahead, the administration is anticipating modest increases in health insurance, salaries and BOCES tuition as well as a slight decrease in the teachers’ retirement system rate. “We’re expecting about a 3.5% increase in our BOCES tuition costs. They’re giving us an indication that, you know, maybe they’re trying to keep it under 4%,” Howard said.

The district also shared its five-year master facilities plan, which outlines a combination of “pay-as-you-go” capital projects funded through the annual budget and more significant bond-funded initiatives. As Howard explained, “The district has recently invested more in its facilities, budgeted more, and transferred more into capital to maintain its buildings than it has in the past.”

On the revenue side, the presentation reviewed the district’s tax levy history, which has been below the tax cap limit each year. The administration is projecting a tax levy increase between 2.1% and 2.3% for 2025-2026, which is lower than the current year’s 2.33% increase.

“We are committed to doing everything possible to minimize this year’s levy recommendation to the board,” Moyer said.

Despite the challenges ahead, the administration reaffirmed its dedication to fiscal prudence while prioritizing the continued excellence of educational programs for students. Their proactive approach aims to balance budgetary constraints with the community’s expectations for quality education, ensuring that every financial decision supports the district’s long-term goals and the success of its students.

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Photo from Wikimedia Commons by Derek Jensen

By Dylan Friedman

Suffolk County’s red-light camera program officially ceased on Dec. 1.

The program generated hundreds of millions of dollars in fines and fees since its inception 14 years ago.

“The intent for it was to make things safer for our roads,” Suffolk County Legislator Robert Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) said.  

However, despite the original intent, the program’s effectiveness has been a frequently contentious issue. Supporters emphasize a decline in severe accidents and fatalities as proof of its success. Conversely, detractors argue it has led to an uptick in rear-end collisions due to individuals stopping suddenly to avoid camera detection. Critics also label it a “cash grab” for the county, which reported earning approximately $13 million from the program in 2023.

In a recent CBS News report, county data showed an 11.3% drop in accidents with injuries and an 8.6% overall increase in crashes.

“The data showed that the rear-end accidents skyrocketed in those intersections [where the cameras were placed],” Trotta said.

According to Newsday, while Suffolk County had independently decided to terminate its red-light camera program, the decision swiftly followed a recent appellate court ruling invalidating Nassau County’s $100 surcharge on top of the standard $50 red-light camera ticket. The court found that Nassau County’s surcharge violates state law. It is worth noting that Suffolk County also previously collected a similar surcharge until 2023.

“If I saw road improvements or it went back to the school system, it would make me feel better about paying for these tickets,” said Nicholas Harding of East Patchogue in a CBS News interview.

Nassau County intends to challenge the recent court ruling that invalidated the county’s ability to levy surcharges on red-light camera tickets. Notably, the county’s red-light camera program remains operational during this appeal process.

However, according to a Fox News report, the recent appellate court ruling regarding the collection fees from these red-light cameras could potentially entitle drivers to “hundreds of millions of dollars,” although the exact amount remains uncertain.

“The purpose of the lawsuit is to get back every dime that was paid in excess of the statutory amount of $50 and $25 in Suffolk. In Nassau, it was even worse. It was an extra $100,” attorney David Raimondo said in a recent statement. “I’m hoping the residents of Nassau and Suffolk have some sense of justice … let’s hope they’re happy when they get their refunds.”

So, if the recent ruling is not directly related to the ending of the red-light camera program in Suffolk County, why else is the program ending?

According to Newsday, although former Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele Jr. (D-Sag Harbor) sponsored an extension bill in the state assembly, no member of Suffolk’s senate delegation, comprised of four Republicans and one Democrat, introduced a corresponding extension bill prior to the adjournment of the last legislative session in June.

Additionally, according to Newsday, extending the program in Suffolk County would have required approval from both the county and state legislatures, a process that would have occurred during an election year, potentially increasing complexity and political considerations.

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By Dylan Friedman

Recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data indicates a significant increase in illness across the United States, with roughly 40 states reporting high illness activity levels in the past week.

So, what illnesses are hitting the hardest at the moment?

According to Carrie Reed, epidemiologist with the CDC Influenza Division, as reported in a recent NBC News Chicago article, “There is a lot of flu out there.”

Reed further emphasized that the current flu surge is being driven by multiple strains, a fact supported by the latest CDC hospitalization data.

According to the CDC, “flu symptoms usually come on suddenly.”

Some of the most common symptoms include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue (tiredness). Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than in adults.

According to the CDC, antiviral medications may be a treatment option if you contract the flu. These medications can potentially lessen the severity of illness and shorten the duration of sickness. They may also help prevent certain flu complications, such as pneumonia.

For optimal effectiveness, antiviral medications should be initiated promptly, ideally within the first two days of the onset of flu symptoms.

While the flu is prevalent at the start of 2025, it is essential to note that several pathogens, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, can present with similar symptoms, such as fever, cough and sore throat. While RSV typically causes cold-like symptoms, it can pose significant health risks for infants and the elderly.

According to the CDC, people infected with RSV usually exhibit symptoms within four to six days after getting infected. The most common symptoms are runny nose, congestion, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing and fever.

It is also important to note that symptoms often appear in stages rather than simultaneously. While adults may experience more pronounced symptoms, they can be less noticeable in young infants. Although RSV typically causes mild cold-like illness, it can lead to severe conditions such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Preventive and protective measures against RSV infection vary depending on the age group. For adults, RSV vaccination is recommended for individuals aged 75 and older as well as those aged 60-74, who are considered at increased risk for severe RSV. In infants, two primary approaches are utilized to mitigate the risk of severe RSV infection. First, a maternal RSV vaccine can be administered to pregnant women, providing some level of protection to the developing fetus. Alternatively, an RSV antibody can be administered to infants after birth to enhance their immunity against the virus.

Additionally, the common cold can present with symptoms similar to both RSV and the flu, including a runny nose, sore throat and cough. While the common cold is generally considered a mild illness, it can cause significant discomfort and may lead to more serious complications in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or those with chronic health conditions.

According to the CDC, the manifestation of cold symptoms usually reaches a peak within two to three days of infection and may include runny nose or nasal congestion, cough, sneezing, sore throat, headache, mild body aches and fever (usually low grade in older children and adults).

The common cold is a self-limiting viral infection that typically resolves without the need for specific medical intervention. It is crucial to understand that antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and, therefore, will not alleviate cold symptoms. 

Additionally, individuals experiencing cold-like symptoms who suspect a possible COVID-19 or flu infection, particularly those at elevated risk for severe illness, are strongly encouraged to undergo testing. 

Antiviral treatments are available for both COVID-19 and flu, and their efficacy is significantly enhanced when administered promptly following the onset of symptoms.

More information can be found on the CDC website: www.cdc.gov.

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Ira Costell, president of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association. File photo

By Dylan Friedman

When two years ago, a significant development threatened to reshape the character of his tight-knit community dramatically, Ira Costell knew he had to act. 

As the recently elected president of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association, Costell became more determined than ever to ensure his neighbors’ voices were heard.

“I figured, this was an opportunity for me to pitch in and try to do my best to give voice to those issues that I felt some of my neighbors and myself were concerned about,” Costell said.

Over the past two years, Costell has done just that, reinvigorating the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association and transforming it into a powerful platform for community advocacy. 

“I try to do it to the best of my ability. It’s a learning experience, but I think I’ve grown into the position, and [I] do my best to be an honest broker so that it’s not just about my opinion. I really try to facilitate what I think the group is trying to say,” Costell said.

Through Costell’s leadership, the organization has seen a surge in engagement. It has over 200 people on its mailing list, over 50 voting members and countless other community members who show up at meetings to voice their concerns. 

This grassroots mobilization has allowed the civic group to have a tangible impact on key issues facing the area, from influencing the outcome of a contentious rezoning proposal to securing a commitment for a comprehensive traffic study, all completed under Costell’s leadership.

While the association has accomplished many things under Costell’s leadership, his decades-long commitment to community service extends far beyond the organization.

“I have a background of giving service to protecting the environment. I was the former chair of an environmental commission in the county of Suffolk,” Costell said. “I [also] continuously give service as a family advocate for people struggling with problems with drugs and alcohol,  connect people to treatment and give them help, and I try to educate and assist families that are struggling with loved ones who are challenged with the disease of addiction,” Costell continued. 

Costell’s dedication to his community has not gone unnoticed. His tireless efforts and passionate advocacy have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and neighbors.

“Ira Costell goes about his business in a quiet way. His planning background and decades-long residency in Port Jefferson Station and Terryville are priceless. He uses both to assist in his decision-making as it pertains to our community,” Lou Antoniello, treasurer of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association, said. 

Costell’s ability to galvanize community support and his commitment to addressing local concerns have significantly impacted the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville community. His leadership has not only revitalized the civic association but also empowered residents to actively participate in shaping the future of their neighborhood.

As Costell continues to serve his community, he inspires others to get involved and make a difference. His story is a testament to the power of individual action and the importance of community engagement at every level. 

For his work with the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association, TBR News Media is pleased to name Ira Costell as a 2024 Person of the Year.

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Pixabay photo

By Dylan Friedman

Sons of Norway, Loyal Lodge 252, is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone: its 100th anniversary in 2024. Initially chartered in June of 1924, the lodge also boasts the title of Smithtown’s oldest fraternal organization. 

“It’s pretty cool that we’re still here, 100 years later,” Eric Johansson, president of the loyal lodge, said. “We have got a lot of cool stories and history to share.”

The lodge’s website recounts that the organization’s early meetings were held in the cellar of former lodge president Carl Eriksen’s residence. As membership grew, the lodge’s members embarked on a construction project during the 1930s, erecting a meeting place to call their own, Norway Hall, located at 201 Seventh St., St. James.  

The completed hall, a substantial structure constructed of hollow tile, stucco and wood, quickly became a vital community hub.

In addition to serving as a designated meeting space for Sons of Norway, Loyal Lodge 252, the hall was also made available to various local organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Democratic and Republican clubs, the Masonic Lodge, and the Boy and Girl Scouts. Moreover, as the organization’s website detailed, the hall previously functioned as a polling place for local elections.

While the hall has served as a physical hub for the community for decades, the organization’s commitment to connection extends beyond its walls. Johansson highlights the organization’s upcoming Annual Scandinavian Bazaar on Nov. 16 as an opportunity to showcase its philanthropic commitment to the community. 

The event will offer attendees a chance to immerse themselves in Scandinavian culture through live accordion music, a variety of Scandinavian holiday and household items, home-baked goods, traditional food (including lapskaus, waffles and open sandwiches) and a raffle.

As Sons of Norway, Loyal Lodge 252, celebrates its 100-year milestone, the organization continues to be a vibrant part of the community. With a rich history and a bright future, the lodge invites everyone to join in the celebration and experience the warmth of Scandinavian culture.

The Nov. 16 event will occur at the St. James Lutheran Church, located at 230 2nd Ave., St. James, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

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North Shore UMC Youth Group co-leaders and some group members with the Peace Pole after the dedication ceremony on Saturday, October 19. Church pastor Rev. Thomas Kim, standing behind, presided at the dedication. Courtesy Margery Sokolski

By Dylan Friedman

A group of passionate young community members are taking a stand for peace, literally.

With hands stained with paint and hearts filled with hope, youth from North Shore United Methodist Church in Wading River embarked on a project to erect a Peace Pole, an 11.5-foot symbol of unity and harmony, in front of an estimated 65 attendees.

The Peace Pole Project is a global movement that began in Japan in the 1970s and is now incorporated as May Peace Prevail on Earth International. More than 250,000 Peace Poles have been planted around the globe, including several in New York state.

While May Peace Prevail on Earth International often sells templated poles, project orchestrator and youth group leader Palesa Ramohlouane expressed pride in the fact that the church’s youth and congregation decided to make, design, and plant the pole themselves after months of theological groundwork.

“We had some choices about how we wanted to do the Peace Pole, whether we wanted to pay for one or build it,” Ramohlouane said. “I wanted them to have a sense of ownership instead of us just buying it. So they decided to make their own, and I think all of [the youth] reported they are grateful for the time we spent on the project and that those moments were also moments of peace,” she said.

Although the youth decided to create their own Peace Pole, they stayed true to the original design by ensuring the phrase “May peace prevail on Earth” appeared on the pole in six different languages, a consistent feature of Peace Poles worldwide. While the design, colors, art, and weatherproofing were done entirely by the youth, congregation members assisted with construction and planting, which, according to Ramohlouane, was an intended byproduct of the project.

“People noticing a Peace Pole brings people together,” Ramohlouane said. “It’s definitely about bringing the community together, spreading peace, and making sure that, even in its art form, it is interesting enough for people to spend a little time reflecting,” she said.

After months of hard work that started in the twilight of 2023, the pole was finally finished and placed near the church on Oct. 19. The church’s pastor, Rev. Thomas Kim, presided at the consecration, which featured members of the youth group and clergy representing Buddhist, Islamic, Jewish, and Christian faith communities, a testament to the church’s extensive community influence. A representative from each faith community delivered a peace message or scripture as a testament to this influence.

Furthermore, co-youth group leader Heather Caldara and youth group members Sanku Assamagan, Daniel Scielzi, and Riley Stark delivered inspiring remarks to reflect on the creation of the Peace Pole.

While the towering 11.5-foot Peace Pole initially stands out as a striking symbol of unity and hope, its ultimate goal is to seamlessly and quietly integrate into the fabric of the community. As time passes, the pole, made to stand out, hopes to blend in, a quiet reminder to pause, reflect, and find peace in the everyday. As Ramohlouane stated, the project’s purpose is to “be in our community,” inviting individuals to interpret its meaning and find personal resonance and peace within its powerful presence.

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School board meetings are held at Centereach High School.

By Dylan Friedman

The Middle Country Central School District Board of Education meeting Oct. 16 was a night to celebrate students’ outstanding achievements and the district’s continued progress in academics and technology. The meeting opened with the recognition of four Students of the Month, beginning with Diya John, a senior at Newfield High School.

John, described as a considerate and mature young lady beyond her years, is the president of the National Honor Society, where she was praised for her leadership, diligence and commitment to helping her peers succeed.

The board also recognized Jeanlee Marcano Robles, an eighth grader at Selden Middle School, and Adam Khazanovich, an eighth grader at Dawnwood Middle School. 

According to Brad Smith, Jeanlee’s soccer coach, she is a “diligent student who is focused on hard work and positivity.” Meanwhile, Adam was praised for his academic excellence, leadership in extracurricular activities and kind, friendly demeanor. 

Alexa Carmody, of Centereach High School, was also honored as a student of the month.  

Celebrating athletic achievements

In addition to the student accolades, the meeting highlighted the district’s athletic achievements. Meaghan Grieco, a four-year varsity starter and captain of the Centereach volleyball team, was named the district’s female Athlete of the Month. 

“Megan will be sorely missed next season, but we know she is looking forward to continuing her playing career at Farmingdale State College,” said head coach Mike Weaver.

The board also recognized Matt Evers, a senior quarterback on the Newfield varsity football team, as the district’s male Athlete of the Month. Assistant coach Nick Adler commended Evers’ character, positive attitude and exceptional performance on the field, which led the team to a 3-0 record in September. 

PTA community engagement

The  meeting also featured an update from the Bicycle Path PTA, highlighting the group’s efforts to support the district’s youngest students and their families.

According to PTA president, Rose Noonan, and first vice president, Nicole Esposito, the PTA has already hosted several successful events, including a membership drive that surpassed expectations, a book fair and a welcome-back picnic with over 330 attendees. Upcoming events include a trick-or-treat street, a pumpkin patch and a frozen pie fundraiser.

Fiscal responsibility and technological advancements

The district’s auditor, Chris Schneider, delivered good news, reporting that the district received “unmodified opinions,” the highest level of audit opinion, on both the district’s financials and the extracurricular activity funds. “For a district of this size, to have no comments is a great thing,” Schneider said. 

Finally, the district’s technology director, Vincent Raicovi, provided an overview of the district’s robust technology infrastructure, including a high-availability data network, virtualized servers and a growing number of devices and digital whiteboards deployed across the schools. 

“When we started this, we had a little over 3,000 devices on our network. And now, many moons later, we are up to 18,000 devices,” Raicovi reported, highlighting the district’s commitment to supporting student learning with the latest technology. 

The next BOE meeting is Oct. 30 at Centereach High School at 7 p.m.

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Huntington High School. File photo

By Dylan Friedman

Huntington Union Free School District Board of Education held its latest meeting Sept. 30. A wide range of topics were addressed that highlighted the district’s commitment to strategic planning for the future, community engagement and student success. 

Superintendent updates

One notable announcement was the recent implementation of a new cell phone policy at Huntington High School, where students are now required to deposit their phones in pouches during instructional time. As Superintendent Beth McCoy explained, “This really is a step in the right direction to start getting our students acclimated to leaving those phones in a pouch throughout their instructional class time.”

McCoy also shared details about the district’s strategic planning process, which will unfold over the next six months. “We are going to be doing a strategic planning process throughout the next six months that will require a lot of stakeholder input from our teachers, our administrators, our staff, as well as our parents and community members,” she said, while emphasizing the importance of gathering diverse perspectives to shape the district’s future.

Celebrating student achievements

Celebrations of student accomplishments also marked the meeting. Board members took turns in highlighting the success of the Blue Devil marching band, which took home a third first-place prize in a row, and the football team. Isabella Careccia-Johnson recently received prestigious recognition as a National Merit “Commended Student” from the National Merit Scholarship Corp.

With many positives from the student body to highlight, the board also expressed its pride in the community for rallying around homecoming. As one board member said, “It was a proud moment and weekend to be a part of Huntington. I’d just like to piggyback on that weekend, starting off with the parade … then the bonfire and the making of the floats, and how it involves so many people within the community.”

Community engagement and advocacy

The district’s engagement with the broader community was also a focal point. McCoy discussed the recent round table session with state legislators, during which the need for a regional cost index for Long Island and the fair distribution of foundation aid were crucial topics of discussion.

Additionally, a community member, Helen Murdock-Prep, used the public commentary portion of the meeting to invite the board to visit her art installation at the Huntington Arts Council that addresses the sensitive issue of sexual abuse. As she explained, “This interactive installation is my attempt to embody all that followed, set in physical form.”

Looking ahead

As the meeting drew close, the board and superintendent expressed their enthusiasm for the strategic planning process and their commitment to continued collaboration with the community. McCoy emphasized, “We encourage you to share your insights on what we’re excelling at and where there’s room for growth, and we’re eager to hear thoughts on what we should prioritize for the future.”

The next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m. at Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School in Huntington Station.

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Port Jefferson Rotary members Pat Sabo and Al Kopcienski, along with volunteer Joseph Schwartz repairing the Port Jefferson bus shelter. Courtesy Elizabeth Shwartz
Port Jefferson Rotary members Pat Sabo and Al Kopcienski, along with volunteer Joseph Schwartz repairing the Port Jefferson bus shelter. Courtesy Elizabeth Shwartz
Port Jefferson Rotary members Pat Sabo repairing the Port Jefferson bus shelter. Courtesy Elizabeth Shwartz

By Dylan Friedman

A Port Jefferson bus shelter in front of the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce building on West Broadway has been given a new life thanks to the generosity of a team of philanthropic local Rotary Club individuals, including 91-year-old Al Kopcienski of Miller Place.

Kopcienski, who worked on the original structure in 2006 and the recent restoration of the structure’s roof and windows on Sept. 17, said that the motivation for the project came simply from seeing how many people used that bus stop. 

“If you think about it, that was a bus stop for a year and a half since Suffolk County started the bus route, and at the beginning there was nothing there. Anybody waiting for a bus [in the rain] would have to stand out … with umbrellas, if they had them — if not, they got wet,” he said.

“And then, with the original shelter they built, if you had a slight rain, you couldn’t stay there because you got wet. But with our design, people could stay in there and wait for the bus. It’s amazing how many people use the bus stop there. That was our motivation to accommodate the people that use mass transit,” Kopcienski added.

He graduated from Port Jefferson High School in 1950 and worked with his brother in farming before running a plumbing, heating and fuel business for 33 years. Kopcienski formally retired in 1989.

Among his many voluntary posts, he has served as president of Mount Sinai School District Board of Education, more than 60 years with Port Jefferson Rotary Club, and with Miller Place Fire Department where he served as chief from 1967-68.

Dr. Patrick Sabo, a fellow Port Jeff Rotary Club member with Kopcienski who worked on both the original shelter and its recent restoration, was quick to commend his colleague for his contributions.

“I have to give kudos to Al Kopcienski. He is in his 90s, he is still a Rotarian, and he still volunteers to drive an ambulance during the week. He’s the one who built the bus shelter in 2006, and he was down there with us putting the roof on it. I got to give him a lot of credit,” Sabo said.

At the remarkable age of 91, Kopcienski’s passion for community service continues to burn brightly. While he jokes about not replacing the shingles on the Port Jefferson bus shelter again, his ongoing involvement in projects at Chandler Estate in Mount Sinai and Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck in Center Moriches continuously demonstrate his unwavering dedication to making a difference, regardless of the endeavor.

The Chandler Estate “laid fallow for a long time, and Dr. Sabo, he and I … we opened up paths, and now we have people that go for walks, bird watching and [enjoying] animals and stuff like that, and sits right on Mount Sinai Harbor,” Kopcienski said. 

“Another big project we have is a hands-on project, Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, which is a camp for disabled children out in Center Moriches. Probably 40 years ago, we started going out there and giving it a day’s labor, cleaning up the place, painting, raking leaves, this, that, and everything just to get the camp ready for the summer kids,” he added.

As Kopcienski continues to inspire others with his tireless volunteer work, the Port Jefferson bus shelter stands as a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of his fellow citizens. Even at the age of 91, his unwavering and consistent dedication to service remains an extraordinary example for all.

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