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File photo

Suffolk County Police arrested two women during a raid at a massage parlor in Huntington Station on Dec. 5. In response to numerous community complaints, Second Precinct Crime Section officers, in conjunction with the Town of Huntington Fire Marshal and Building Department, conducted an investigation into J & Y NY Spa, located at 8 Boston Place at approximately 3:15 p.m.

Two employees, Ying Ma, 52, of Brooklyn and Berlyn Antonia Cruz, 44, of Queens, were charged with alleged Unauthorized Practice of a Profession, a Class E felony under the New York State Education Law, and Prostitution, a B misdemeanor.

Ma and Cruz were issued Field Appearance Tickets and are scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on a later date.

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The Village of Port Jefferson hosts the 28th annual Charles Dickens Festival on Dec. 7 and 8. File photo by Kyle Barr

The Suffolk County Police Department is advising motorists of road closures for the annual Charles
Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson this weekend. Due to an anticipated influx of crowds and pedestrian traffic during the event, Main Street will be closed intermittently on December 7 and 8 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Please use alternate routes.

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Pictured from left, Robert Waring, Ed Hugh, Thomas Joy, and Chief of Patrol Gerard Hardy. Photo courtesy of SCPD

Suffolk County Police Detective Edwin Hugh and Police Officer Thomas Joy were among the recipients announced during the Seventh Annual Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing ceremony in Washington D.C. on December 4.

This prestigious award recognizes law enforcement officers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to strengthening trust, promoting community engagement, and enhancing public safety.

The Attorney General’s Award recognizes individual state, local, and Tribal sworn officers, deputies, and troopers for exceptional efforts in community policing. The awarded individuals have demonstrated active engagement with the community in one of three areas: criminal investigations, field operations, or innovations in community policing. Twenty-one people were honored in those categories.

Detective Hugh and Police Officer Joy were honored in the Innovations in Community Policing category for strengthening the department’s relationship with the Asian American community.

Ten years ago, the pair created a police fraternal nonprofit charity organization, the Suffolk County Police Asian Jade Society. The goal was to create an organization for Asian American police officers to collaborate, serve as liaisons, encourage Asian Americans to serve their community, and celebrate Asian American culture.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, community police officers including Officer Joy and Detective Hugh transported people with no transportation and mobility problems to and from testing sites. They also provided meals and other personal comfort items to testing site staff, law enforcement and other essential workers to keep morale high.

Even though Suffolk County had very few incidents of hate crimes in the Asian American community, when they occurred, Detective Hugh and Officer Joy made themselves available to the Asian American community. Detective Hugh and Officer Joy became a liaison between the victims and the department and served as a support system to victims.

Officer Joy, being a Recruitment Officer for the department and having made close ties with the community through the Asian Jade Society, was successful in making recruitment information more available to Asian American communities. Those efforts doubled the number of Asian American and Muslim American officers.

“Suffolk County could not be more proud of our men and women who keep our communities safe, and the actions and dedication of Suffolk County Police Detective Edwin Hugh and Police Officer Thomas Joy perfectly exemplify the excellence of the Suffolk County law enforcement community,” Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said.

“The partnership between Detective Hugh and Officer Joy has benefitted the department and the Asian American community we serve,” said Suffolk County Police Acting Commissioner Robert Waring, who attended the ceremony. “Muslims, Sikhs and Hindus now have a strong relationship with the department leading to a high level of access and confidence and I look forward to continuing to build on that foundation.”

For more information about the awards, visit www.justice.gov

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Denise Driscoll, NP, Assistant Vice President for Behavioral Health at Mather Hospital cuts the ribbon to the new facility with hospital staff, local officials and community members. Photo courtesy of Mather Hospital

Northwell’s Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson formally dedicated its recently acquired Outpatient Behavioral Health Services building that allows the hospital to transform how it provides mental health services at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 25.

The building, located across the street from the hospital at 100 Highlands Blvd., was purchased with public and private funding totaling $9.2 million including a grant from the NYS Department of Health. 

“Tonight, we choose hope. Tonight, we celebrate a victory,” Erin Dainer, MD, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for Mather Hospital, said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “This facility, born from the collective will of government, healthcare providers, and generous philanthropists, stands as proof that together, we can make a difference. Within these walls, lives will be transformed.”

The building houses Mather’s Adult and Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Programs, Chemical Dependency Program, Eating Disorders and Gambling Addiction programs, and a new Rapid Access Center allowing patients immediate access to assessments and referrals for behavorial health care. The Center is expected to be opened by the end of the year. 

As part of the acquisition, Mather also expanded its Adolescent Partial Hospitalization program by 10 slots and added a co-occurring disorders track. The hospital also added capacity for its outpatient Medication Assisted Treatment program. 

A recent series of community leader forums conducted by the hospital revealed a severe shortage of behavioral health services for both adolescents and adults was a top concern. 

“The statistics are stark, but they are not just numbers. They represent real people, our friends, family, and neighbors. Every year, more than one in five New Yorkers battle the invisible wounds of mental health disorders, and in any year one in ten face challenges so profound they impact their ability to work, to love, to simply live,” said Dr. Dainer. “The need is monumental and has only been made worse by the opioid epidemic and recent pandemic.”

“There is no doubt we have a mental health and substance abuse crisis in this country,” said Denise Driscoll, NP, Assistant Vice President for Behavioral Health at Mather Hospital, noting that 53 million Americans are living with mental illness. “Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14 and the 12th leading cause of death overall in the U.S, and  2.5 million Americans are diagnosed with an opioid use disorder. According to the CDC, annual drug overdose deaths have eclipsed the peak of yearly deaths from car crashes, gun violence or any one year of the AIDS epidemic.”

Driscoll said that there is only one provider available for every 350 individuals looking for services, and 28% of adults experiencing mental health symptoms reported they were not able to access or navigate their way to the treatment they so desperately needed. 

“Let 100 Highlands be a permanent symbol to our community that no one gets left behind and a beacon of hope to those living with mental illness and substance abuse that recovery and a life well lived is possible,” she said.

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From left, Steven Gallagher, Port Jefferson Superintendent of Public Works; Stephen Gaffga, Port Jefferson Treasurer; Mayor Lauren Sheprow; Sylvia Pirillo, Port Jefferson Clerk; SCWA Director of Construction/Maintenance Brendan Warner; SCWA Chairman Charlie Lefkowitz; and Jarrot Haffner, Port Jefferson DPW. Photo courtesy the SCWA

The Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA) and the Village of Port Jefferson marked the completion of three major water infrastructure projects with a ceremonial check presentation on  Nov. 25. SCWA provided $473,000 to the village for road restoration, enabling curb-to-curb paving of affected roads at no cost to residents.

The upgrades, part of SCWA’s effort to modernize its system and enhance service reliability, included replacing outdated water mains, addressing failing water connections and improving fire protection. The projects aim to ensure more dependable water delivery and better infrastructure for the community.

“Modernizing our water infrastructure is essential, allowing us to deliver water our customers can trust and service they can rely on,” said SCWA Chairman Charlie Lefkowitz. “This collaboration with the Village of Port Jefferson exemplifies how municipalities and utilities can work together to maximize benefits for the community.”

The completed work included replacing 3,500 feet of water mains on Old Post Road with durable ductile iron pipes, enhancing water distribution and fire protection. On East Broadway, 14 aging service connections were replaced to address recurring leaks caused by challenging ground conditions. Additionally, 475 feet of undersized cast iron water mains were replaced on Nicholas Street, improving water pressure and reliability.

With these upgrades complete, the village can now begin road restoration, fully repaving affected streets. By overseeing the road restoration, the village reduced costs and ensured the roads meet community standards.

“The Village of Port Jefferson places great value on its partnership with the Suffolk County Water Authority,” said Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow. “We now have upgraded water infrastructure and the village can fully and efficiently restore the roads for our residents. This collaboration demonstrates true teamwork in serving the public and we are grateful.”

Residents welcomed the improvements. “I live near Old Post Road and I drive it all the time,” said Peter Duran, a local resident. “It’s been a little bumpy but I knew it was just a matter of time before they paved this road. I think the village is doing a good job.”

About the Suffolk County Water Authority

The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under New York State law. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, SCWA operates on a not-for-profit basis without taxing power.

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A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
A scene from the Town of Smithtown's 2024 tree lighting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown held their Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, December 3rd at Town Hall. Master of Ceremonies, John Zollo kicked off the evening by announcing the arrival of Santa Claus, courtesy of the Smithtown Fire Department, straight from the North Pole around 5:15  p.m.

Santa Claus, with help from volunteer Elves and our Smithtown Fire Marshall, Nick Kefalos interacted with little residents, taking photos and collecting big hugs for the duration of the event. Live performances from Great Hollow Select Chorus, Hauppauge HS Kickline, RJO Intermediate Chorus, Smithtown West Varsity Whisperettes, Accompsett Middle School Select Chorus, Sara Jean Dance Company, and Smithtown West Jazz Choir, entertained the crowd throughout the night. The magic of the holiday season closed the evening out, when the Town Administration and our youngest residents flipped the switch to light tree, just as snow flurries fell from the sky.

“This event gets better every year. People couldn’t believe that it started to snow! They kept asking if we got a snow machine… It was truly magical. I’d like to thank everyone who made this event possible; especially our talented team at the Recreation Department, our Parks, Buildings and Grounds crew, who didn’t stop working through the bitter cold weather for two days, our amazing Department of Public Safety, GTV film crew and of course our Chief Fire Marshall and the Smithtown Fire Department for getting Santa here safe!” said Town of Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

“Also, a special thanks to the incredible school districts, dance companies, talented teachers, students and parents who made this event so much fun for everyone. Thank you to our Girl Scout Troops, and the Smithtown Youth Bureau volunteers for always making our events so community friendly! Finally, thanks to our vendors who participated this year, especially Smithtown Landing Caterers who donated the cookies and hot chocolate for the evening. We are so blessed and thankful to live in a town that comes together in such a wonderful way! Every year this ceremony gets bigger and better. It was the perfect kickoff to a wonderful holiday season,” added Supervisor Wehrheim.

The community based event is organized by the Department of Recreation, with support from the Parks Department and the Department of Public Safety. Volunteers included Girl Scout Troops 292, 1823, and 628 as well as a number of Local High School student volunteers who were enlisted thanks to the Smithtown Youth Bureau. The tree is decorated each year by the Department of Traffic Safety. Town Hall is transformed into a winter wonderland, quite literally, with decorations, designed and constructed by the Parks Department. Live event staging and pro audio services are provided by Taylor Productions.

Live performances that entertained a packed house included Great Hollow Select Chorus, Hauppauge HS Kickline, RJO Intermediate Chorus, Smithtown West Varsity Whisperettes, Accompsett Middle School Select Chorus, Sara Jean Dance Company, and Smithtown West Jazz Choir.  Each group performed seasonal favorites for a crowd of approximately 300 people.

Youth volunteers served Cookies and Hot Chocolate, donated courtesy of Smithtown Landing Caterers. Balloon Sculpting was provided for kids of all ages by Animations. The Big Black Food Truck and Pretzel Factory featured delicious snacks and light fare. New this year, Zag’s Photo Booth was set up for guests to pose for digital and print photos. Bins were loaded to the brim for the Smithtown Food Pantry and Toys for Tots. Residents may still drop off Toys for Tots at Town Hall now through December 13th. Residents who wish to make a donation to the Smithtown Food Pantry may do so in person at their location: 90 Edgewater Avenue in the hamlet of Smithtown.

TOYS FOR TOTS DROP SITE:

Did you know, you can donate new toys to the US Marines Toys for Tots drop off site, located inside Town Hall (at the main entrance.) The collection will be picked up by the Marine Corps on December 13th, 2024. Town Hall is open Monday through Friday from 9AM – 5PM.

UPSIDE DOWN GIFT CARD TREE:

Residents looking for a unique way to give back during the holidays may stop by the Smithtown Senior Center (420 Middle Country Rd, Smithtown) during regular business hours and pick an ornament from the upside down tree. Each ornament lists a gift card which will be donated to Angles of Kings Park to assist local families and children in need. Gift Cards must be donated by Tuesday, December 10th. The Smithtown Senior Center is open Monday through Friday: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. For more information please call: (631) 360-7616

Upcoming Events: 

The Town of Smithtown Recreation & Senior Citizens Departments will host an independent holiday shopping experience for kids. On Saturday, December 7th, from 10AM to 1PM, children (grades K-5) can shop with a chaperone, and enjoy giving gifts to family & friends, without spoiling the surprise. Extra little shoppers may shop with parents and older siblings after 12:30PM. The Tender Years Treasury event showcases handmade gifts, all modestly priced at $5 and under. The independent kids shopping experience is held at the Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center.

Menorah Lighting Ceremony: The Town of Smithtown will hold its Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony on December 26th from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Town Hall. The community based event, is hosted by Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town Board, featuring Rabbi Mendel Teldon of Chabad Mid Suffolk, music, Latkes, Donuts and gelt drop. Additional details to follow.

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Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown
The Town of Smithtown has begun construction on the new Welcome Center at Paul T. Given Park, located across from the iconic bull monument. The transformative project, which was formerly the Oasis Gentlemen’s Club, aims to enhance Paul T. Given Park, creating a unique green space that will serve as an inviting gateway to Smithtown while promoting eco-tourism and community engagement.
“Creating a unique green space at the entryway to Smithtown has been a long-time vision of the Smithtown Administration. We acquired the property in a park swap with Suffolk County and after finally receiving the necessary approvals from the State DEC, we are thrilled to be beginning construction on the Welcome Center. This project will not only restore the historic charm of the area but also help to rebuild the local ecosystem… all while providing a serene refuge for residents and wildlife,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.
The building renovations, upon completion, will feature a welcome center on the first floor, providing essential amenities for park visitors, including restrooms, bait shop, food concession, and an office for the local canoe/kayak rental business. The main floor will also feature educational nature exhibits for visitors of all ages, alongside a dedicated area to showcase local tourism. Here, organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and other community groups can display marketing materials and informational pamphlets to highlight the rich cultural, historic and natural attractions, and special events available in the Township.
The second floor of the new facility will house a multipurpose meeting room, designed to accommodate classes, workshops, and conduct other town business. This versatile space will cater to the needs of the local community while fostering educational and civic engagement opportunities.
In addition to the Welcome Center, plans for Paul T. Given Park include a series of upgrades and eco-friendly initiatives aimed at enhancing both the visitor experience and the park’s natural environment.
Paul T. Given Park renovations to include:
  • Minor renovations and repairs to existing infrastructure.
  • Removal of invasive Japanese knotweed to support native biodiversity.
  • Installation of bioswales to mitigate stormwater runoff and protect the Nissequogue Headwaters.
  • New landscaping and street trees along Main Street (NY 25A) to beautify the area.
  • Development of new trails for hiking and wildlife education/awareness tours.
  • Improved fishing access.
  • Construction of a canoe launch, ADA-accessible pavilion with restrooms, and a raised deck/viewing platform for scenic enjoyment.
  • Creation of a picnic area, playground, and enhanced open spaces for community use.
  • Repairs to the historic steel bridge within the park.
The project has been made possible through a series of strategic decisions, including the purchase of the former Oasis Gentlemen’s Club property in May 2021. This acquisition was designed to expand Paul T. Given Park and protect environmentally sensitive areas along the Nissequogue River Headwaters. The Town Board approved a park swap with Suffolk County, authorizing special legislation to alienate Bill Richards Park in exchange for Paul T. Given Park.
Working closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the Town of Smithtown is committed to realizing this vision of a natural sanctuary. Upon its culmination, the new Welcome Center and enhanced Paul T. Given Park will stand as a testament to Smithtown’s dedication to environmental stewardship, community well-being, and sustainable development.

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Zaida Gonzalez scored 21 points at Sunday's game. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook women’s basketball team battled tough, but was ultimately defeated by Fordham, 64-55, on Dec. 1 on their home court. The Seawolves were paced by three players who scored in double figures, led by Zaida Gonzalez who scored 21 points. Breauna Ware tallied 12 points while Chloe Oliver helped out with 10.  

The Rams outlasted the Seawolves in a back-and-forth contest that consisted of six ties and eight lead changes. Stony Brook led 36-35 with 3:10 left to play in the third quarter following a step back jump shot by Ware. Fordham used a 7-2 run that carried over into the fourth quarter to take a lead it would not relinquish.

After falling behind 2-0, Stony Brook went on a 6-0 run with 8:48 left in the first quarter, culminating in a bucket from Brantley, to take a 6-2 lead. The Seawolves then lost some of that lead, but still entered the quarter break with a 14-12 advantage. Stony Brook did most of its first quarter damage in the paint, scoring eight of its 14 points close to the basket. Gonzalez led with eight points through the opening frame.

Fordham rallied to take a 16-14 lead before Stony Brook went on a 6-0 run starting at the 7:22 mark in the second period to take a 20-16 lead. The Rams then battled back to even it up at 27-27 heading into halftime as the Seawolves forced five turnovers from the Rams.

Fordham proceeded to claw their way ahead after halftime, leaving Stony Brook trailing 42-38 as the game entered the fourth quarter. Stony Brook played well near the basket, scoring eight of its 11 points in the paint.

Stony Brook could not pull any closer in the fourth, as Gonzalez dominated with a nine-point performance, but the Seawolves would fall, 64-55 to Fordham as they continue their nonconference slate.

“Tough one for us today,” noted head coach Joy McCorvey postgame. “This was a big stretch playing three games in seven days with a limited number of players. I wasn’t particularly happy with our defense late in the third and fourth and our effort to finish plays and secure stops. I thought we fought hard but ran out of gas down the stretch. We will continue to work through our turnovers, learn and grow through how to get over the hump in close games. We will take the week to work on us and hopefully get a few more players back healthy.” 

The team ships up to Boston next weekend as they take on Holy Cross on Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. This will only be the second meeting between the Seawolves and Crusaders after a 68-55 Stony Brook victory last season. Coverage is set to be available on ESPN+.

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#4 Roland Dempster. Photo from Stony Brook Athletics

Stony Brook football running back Roland Dempster has been nominated for the 2024 Walter Payton Award, known as the “Heisman of the FCS.” Stats Perform announced Dempster as one of 35 finalists for the award, which recognizes the national offensive player of the year in Division I FCS college football.

Dempster becomes only the second player in Stony Brook program history to receive this honor. Miguel Maysonet, a standout in the 2012 season, finished as the runner-up that year. Dempster is also one of just two Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) players nominated in 2024, joining Monmouth quarterback Derek Robertson.

The redshirt senior delivered a record-breaking season in 2024, leading Stony Brook in rushing yards (1,332), rushing attempts (268), rushing yards per game (111.0), and all-purpose yards per game (138.9). He also set personal bests in receiving yards (335), receptions (32), and yards per catch (10.5) while starting every game.

Dempster consistently showcased his dominance throughout the season, surpassing 100 rushing yards in seven games and 100 all-purpose yards in nine of 11 games. He eclipsed 200 all-purpose yards in three contests and tallied seven multi-touchdown games, including three games with three rushing touchdowns. This feat made him the first Stony Brook player since Miguel Maysonet in 2011 to achieve three or more games with three rushing touchdowns.

Nationally, Dempster finished third in the FCS and second in the CAA in total touchdowns. He led the CAA and ranked in the FCS top six for total rushing yards and rushing yards per game and ninth in all-purpose yards per game. His 2024 performance also earned him the fourth spot in the FCS for total touchdowns.

In Stony Brook’s program history, Dempster now ranks fourth for most rushing yards and second for most rushing touchdowns in a season by a running back. He also recorded the third-most touchdowns in a single season in program history.

Dempster’s accomplishments include being named the first player in program history to earn the FCS National Offensive Player of the Week honor, awarded on Sept. 30. He also received CAA Offensive Player of the Week accolades on Sept. 9 and Sept. 23.

The Walter Payton Award, in its 38th season, is named after legendary running back Walter Payton, who starred at Jackson State during his Hall of Fame career. Previous winners of the award include notable players such as Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Kupp, and Trey Lance.

All 13 FCS conferences are represented among the finalists for the award. The winner, selected by a national voting panel, will be announced at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 4 in Frisco, Texas.

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This vehicle will be up for auction on Dec. 7. Photo from SCPD Facebook
This vehicle will be up for auction on Dec. 7. Photo from SCPD Facebook
These vehicles will be up for auction on Dec. 7. Photo from SCPD Facebook
This vehicle will be up for auction on Dec. 7. Photo from SCPD Facebook

In the market for a new car? The Suffolk County Police Department Impound Section will hold an auction on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the department’s impound facility, located at 100 Old Country Road in Westhampton.

The auction will begin at 9 a.m. and will be held rain or shine. There will be a preview of vehicles on Thursday, Dec. 5 and Friday, Dec. 6 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the impound yard. Vehicles will also be available for preview for one hour prior to the start of the auction on Dec. 7.

More than 80 vehicles will be auctioned off including sedans, SUVs and motorcycles. All vehicles will start with a minimum bid of $500 and are sold as-is.

For a full list of vehicles, registration information and terms and conditions for the auction, visit www.suffolkpd.org and click on Impound Section and Vehicle Auctions or click here.

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