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Art installation created by Michael Rosengard

Travel back in time to visit an imaginative old-fashion pushcart of newspapers, candy and treats – all for those young at heart.

The Stony Brook Train Station Beautification Project invites you to the opening reception of a very special art installation created by local artist Michael Rosengard titled ‘Sweet Memories.’ 

This outdoor work of art, located outside the front entrance of the historic Stony Brook Station House, creates a sense of nostalgia for commuters, or those passing by the station in their vehicles. The unique artistry of Michael Rosengard highlights a simpler time in America, as well as the importance of the Long Island Rail Road in bringing families together during this time of the year. The installation helps kick off the Holiday Season and also celebrates the ongoing accomplishments of the community based Stony Brook Train Station Beautification Project.

Artist Michael Rosengard, on reflecting on his installation noted, “I’m passionate about improving our community. This project is meant to promote the sense of joy and pride so many of us feel for the Three Villages! I hope people smile when they see Sweet Memories, and tell their family and friends to visit the display and take photographs.” Herb Mones, president of the Three Village Community Trust observed, “Michael’s work enriches the cultural and social fabric of our North Shore community. His art installation demonstrates the vibrant, creative, and giving spirit of so many of our residents. The Three Village Community Trust and its partners in the Station Beautification Project are proud to facilitate “Sweet Memories.” 

Over the past three years, the Three Village Community Trust, along with the Three Village Civic Association, the North Suffolk Garden Club, the Three Village Chamber of Commerce, the Three Village Rotary, the Three Village Historical Society, and students and faculty at the Stony Brook School have engaged in the Beautification Project at the Stony Brook Train Station. Significant progress has been made removing debris, weeds, and invasive plants from the landscaped beds. Now, a wide variety of Long Island native plants have been added to the landscaped beds. 

Place it on your calendar to join them for a celebration of the season at the outdoor reception for Michael Rosengard’s “Sweet Memories” at the Stony Brook Train Station. There will be light bites, sweet treats and hot beverages. 

Happy Holidays!

Date and Time: Monday, December 2th – Noon – 1pm at the Stony Brook Train Station 

Sweet treats, light bites, hot chocolate and coffee will be served. 

Meet the artist, take photos, and celebrate the Holiday Season!

For more information – call 631-942-4558

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Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright named David Tracy Veteran of the Year for the county’s Fifth Legislative District. Photo from Steve Englebright’s office

Suffolk County legislators honored veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces at the Legislature’s General Meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 26. During the meeting, each of the 18 legislators introduced a veteran as their district’s Veteran of the Year.

Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) chose Stony Brook resident David Tracy, a United States Marine Corps Corporal, to honor.

Tracy’s commitment to making our world a better place has been his mission since joining the Marines in 2003. He served for four years, and during the Global War on Terror, he completed two tours of duty in Iraq. Tracy’s service was not without personal sacrifice, as he was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining an injury during his first tour.

Since 2010, Tracy has continued his commitment to protecting his fellow Americans as a Law Enforcement Officer with the Department of Homeland Security.

Tracy, who lives in Stony Brook with his wife, Becky, and son, Sean, has become a familiar face in his community as the founder and chairman of the Three Village Dads Foundation. Since 2019, the foundation has raised approximately $400,000 for local causes, including $100,000 donated to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and $15,000 pledged to the Long Island State Veterans Home. Recently, foundation members refurbished the outside area of the historic Merritt-Hawkins Homestead in East Setauket and are now the house’s stewards.

Englebright said he recently toured the homestead with Tracy. He added that he was impressed by the interpretive narrative the veteran had composed for permanent signage now installed at the historic site. 

“It’s really noteworthy,” he said. “David Tracy has thoughtfully researched the significant aspects and features of the old growth woodland and Vernal pond parkland that this historic residence is embedded into.”

Additionally, Tracy serves as the quartermaster of VFW Post 3054 in Setauket and is a former trustee of the Three Village Historical Society and Three Village Community Trust.

“It is wonderful that today we have an opportunity to honor David Tracy’s many accomplishments and contributions,” Englebright said. “Thank you for your good work.”

 

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Photo from Leg. McCaffrey's office

Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces from across Suffolk County were honored for their service and sacrifice in helping to protect our freedom and liberty. Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced a veteran as “Veteran of the Year” from their district at Tuesday’s General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State and has one of the largest veterans’ populations of any county in the United States.

“Today’s recognition of our veterans is the least we can do for their vital role in protecting our freedom and liberty,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey. “My colleagues and I are proud to celebrate the inspiring commitment of these men and women who have significantly contributed to their communities and our Nation. By publicly commemorating their achievements, Suffolk County reaffirms its gratitude and respect for those who have served in the Armed Forces, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices remain a lasting part of our County’s and our Nation’s legacy.

“From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Christopher M. Geackel of Lindenhurst, who retired from the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant in 2006 after 23 years of service. Among his awards, Chris received three Commendation Medals, five Air Force Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals; and was named the Community College of the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer and Athletic Warrior of the Year.”

“As a member of Wade-Burns VFW Post 7279 for 17 years, Chris has served as both Post Commander and Suffolk County Commander. He serves as coordinator of the Village of Lindenhurst Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and regularly visits the Long Island State Veterans Home and VA Hospital, to provide clothing, birthday cake, gifts, and vouchers to fellow veterans. He is a truly a shining example of selfless service,” said McCaffrey.

November is a somber and celebratory month for veterans, including as it does Veterans Day on November 11th – where ceremonies mark “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in honor of the men and women who have served our nation – as well as the US Marine Corps birthday on November 10th.

LD Legislator Veteran and Rank Branch Residence:

  1 Catherine Stark — Michael Mundy US Marine Corps Shelter Island, Lance Corporal

  2 Ann Welker — Bob Grisnik US Air Force Southampton, Colonel

  3 Jim Mazzarella — Enrico ‘Rick’ Rossi US Navy Shirley, Seaman

  4 Nick Caracappa —  Frank Sanzone US Air Force Selden, Master Sergeant

  5 Steve Englebright — David Tracy US Marine Corps Stony Brook Corporal

  6 Chad Lennon — Joe Cognitore US Army Rocky Point, Platoon Sergeant & Platoon Leader

  7 Dominick Thorne — Walter Maresco US Air Force Medford, Airman First Class

  8 Anthony Piccirillo — William Borthwick US Army Oakdale, Specialist 4

  9 Sam Gonzalez — Dr. Jaime Marcos US Marine Corps Bay Shore, Sergeant

10 Trish Bergin — Christopher J. Hirsch US Army Hauppauge, Specialist Fifth Class

11 Steve Flotteron — William F. Murray US Army Bay Shore, Specialist Fourth Class

12 Leslie Kennedy — Grace Mehl US Navy Smithtown, Commander

13 Rob Trotta — Marty Thompson US Navy Saint James, Senior Chief Petty Officer

14 Kevin McCaffrey — Christopher M. Geackel US Air Force Lindenhurst, Master Sergeant

15 Jason Richberg — Charles ‘Chuck’ Vinciulla US Navy Amityville, Corpsman

16 Rebecca Sanin — Santiago Mejia US National Guard Huntington Station, Staff Sergeant

17 Tom Donnelly — Charlie Armstrong US Air Force South Huntington, Sergeant

18 Stephanie Bontempi — Eugene Leavy US Army East Northport, Sergeant

More information on each honoree can be found on the Suffolk County Legislature’s website at the following link:

https://www.scnylegislature.us/1764/2024-Veteran-of-the-Year

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Gurwin Thanksgiving Parade 2024. Photo courtesy of Gurwin Healthcare System
Gurwin Thanksgiving Parade 2024. Photo courtesy of Gurwin Healthcare System
Gurwin Thanksgiving Parade 2024. Photo courtesy of Gurwin Healthcare System
Gurwin Thanksgiving Parade 2024. Photo courtesy of Gurwin Healthcare System
Gurwin Thanksgiving Parade 2024. Photo courtesy of Gurwin Healthcare System
Gurwin Thanksgiving Parade 2024. Photo courtesy of Gurwin Healthcare System

Three adorable children and grandchildren of the staff of Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack led the way for the 4th Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 27.

The parade is a local take on the MACYs Thanksgiving Parade in New York City, where staff guided more than a dozen homemade “floats” – made from medical carts and decorated with balloons, steamers, signs and lights – on a parade route through the halls of the facility, as residents sang and clapped along to music provided by the Commack High School “Jazz Messengers.”

The parade is an annual event held to enhance and reinforce the emotional health of residents who are apart from their families for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

“The holidays can be a rough time for residents who are here, because they’re used to being at home. So starting new traditions can help them see the positive light of being here,” said Nicole Hopper, Director of Therapeutic Nursing, Gurwin Healthcare System. “The smiles are incredible! We get cheers and claps. Some people can’t believe what they’re seeing.”

“I think it was so great, it was wonderful!” said Linn Carlson of Long Beach, who is at Gurwin for a short rehabilitation stay. “The imaginations that created these floats was ways up there. They were good.”

“That parade, all those balloons, and the costumes! One came over and gave me a hug!” said Mary Creter, resident council secretary. “And the music was nice. I wanted to get up and dance!”

This is the second year students from Commack High School have participated in the event.

About Gurwin Healthcare System 

The Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is a 5-star CMS rated 460-bed skilled nursing care facility in Commack, Long Island, and is part of the Gurwin Healthcare System, a renowned health-care provider offering a full continuum of healthcare and senior living services for medically complex individuals and frail older adults. Gurwin successfully rehabilitated more than 200 of its residents who were diagnosed COVID-19, through the work of its dedicated team of doctors and nursing staff.

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Legislators Sanin (front-right), Bontempi (back-right), and Donnelly (front-left) with the students and coaches of the Walt Whitman High School Boys Varsity Soccer team
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Legislators Sanin (front-right), Bontempi (back-right), and Donnelly (front-left) with the students and coaches of the Walt Whitman High School Boys Varsity Soccer team
Legislator Sanin (at podium) addresses WWHS Boys Varsity Soccer team

At the Nov. 26 General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin, joined by her colleagues Legislators Stephanie Bontempi and Thomas Donnelly, proudly honored the Walt Whitman High School Varsity Boys Soccer Team in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

The team was recognized for their outstanding accomplishments during the 2024 season, including winning the Suffolk County AAA Championship and the Long Island Class AAA Championship and advancing to the semifinals of the New York State AAA Class Tournament. Their remarkable performance has solidified their place as one of the best teams in both Long Island and New York State.

“The Walt Whitman Varsity Boys Soccer Team exemplifies the very best of Suffolk County’s student-athletes,” said Legislator Sanin. “This season was a testament to their skill, teamwork, and dedication, and they’ve inspired our community with their incredible achievements on and off the field. We are so proud of each of you.”

Legislator Sanin also commended the team’s coaching staff, including Head Coach John DiGiacomo and assistant coaches Brian Karcz, Robert Tedesco, Nicholas Costa, and Brayan Portillo, for their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.

The celebration highlighted the team’s ability to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and collaboration throughout the season, making them a source of pride for the entire Suffolk County community.

“This recognition is about more than championships,” Legislator Sanin added. “It’s about celebrating a group of young leaders who embody what it means to work hard, support one another, and strive for greatness. Congratulations on an unforgettable season!”

Legislators Sanin, Donnelly, and Bontempi presented a proclamation to the Walt Whitman Varsity Boys Soccer Team to commemorate their achievements and acknowledge their contributions to the community.

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Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD
Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the men who harassed a victim and damaged his vehicle in Commack this month.

Two men started screaming and yelling at a man while he was driving away from a parking lot, located at 85 Crooked Hill Road, on November 20 at approximately 8 p.m.

The subjects followed the victim onto Crooked Hill Commons when they ran up to his vehicle, punched the man and smashed the driver’s side rear window.

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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Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the man who allegedly stole merchandise from a Kings Park store in October.

A man allegedly stole men’s clothing from T.J. Maxx, located at 42 Indian Head Road, on October 29 at approximately 6:10 p.m.

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

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File photo

Suffolk County Police arrested a woman for stabbing her mother to death in Dix Hills on Nov. 27.

Second Precinct officers responded to 2 Carman Court at 9:08 p.m. after a 911 caller reported a stabbing victim at the location. When officers arrived, they discovered a resident, Josephine Bekatoros, 84, stabbed to death.

Homicide Squad detectives located Bekatoros’ daughter, Diana Bekatoros, 51, at her home, located at 4610 Center Blvd. in Long Island City, and charged her with Murder 2nd Degree.

Bekatoros was arraigned on November 28 at First District Court in Central Islip.

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Legislator Sanin with District 16 Veteran of the Year Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia

At the November General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia of the National Guard as the 16th Legislative District’s 2024 “Veteran of the Year.” The ceremony, held on November 26 in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building, celebrated veterans from each of Suffolk County’s 18 legislative districts.

“Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia represents the best of Suffolk County’s veteran community,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “His 16 years of dedicated service, not only to our nation but also to his fellow soldiers, exemplify leadership, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to service that strengthens our communities and our country.”

Staff Sergeant Mejia’s contributions are profound. As an Equal Opportunity officer in the Army National Guard, he has provided critical support to soldiers in need, including instances where his actions have saved lives. His advocacy extends to fostering opportunities for others, as evidenced by his tireless work assisting 11 fellow soldiers in achieving U.S. citizenship. Overcoming language barriers and navigating complex processes, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s mentorship made their dreams of citizenship a reality.

Beyond his official duties, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s impact has been recognized with the President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award for his 100 hours of overseas service. His talents as a photographer have also brought comfort to soldiers, capturing and preserving moments that connect them to their loved ones back home.

“Staff Sergeant Mejia’s actions inspire all of us to lead with compassion and dedication,” said Legislator Sanin. “His service not only reflects the highest standards of military honor but also enriches the lives of everyone he touches. Suffolk County is privileged to count him among our own.”

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State, with one of the largest veteran communities in the nation. The annual “Veteran of the Year” recognition underscores the county’s commitment to honoring those who have served and sacrificed to protect freedom and liberty.

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Participants from last year's concert. Photo from Daniel Kerr/All Souls Church

Historic All Souls Church at 61 Main Street, Stony Brook invites the community to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas as it joins with thirteen other faith communities to present its annual Lessons & Carols concert on Saturday, December 7.  

The concert will feature Stony Brook University soprano Heidi Schneider and tell the story of the Nativity in scripture and song. Schneider’s solos will include “Ave Maria,” “Silent Night,” and “Away in the Manger.” 

Setauket guitarist Bill Clark and his Brave Trio will also perform “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “Halleluiah,” and “What Child Is This?” Miriam and Lexi Salerno from St. James RC Church will sing “Breath of Heaven,” “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “Noel”. 

All attending will be invited to sing “Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” as All Souls organist Dan Kinney plays the church’s 1855 Tracker Organ. The readings will be done by clergy and lay people from The Stony Brook School, Caroline Church, Bethel AME Church, Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Stony Brook Community Church, Three Village Church, Religious Society of Friends-Quakers in St. James, Little Church of Smithtown Landing, St. James RC Church, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, Mt. Sanai Congregational Church, Setauket Methodist Church, and St. James Episcopal Church. 

There will be a 15-minute intermission and refreshments will be served. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m. 

All Souls Church collects food each week to feed the hungry at the St Gerard Majella’s food pantry. Please bring a can of food to donate (“Lend a hand, bring a can”). Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

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