The 1653 Foundation, whose mission is to preserve, restore, and enhance the Town of Huntington’s parks and public spaces, today announced the appointment of Don Tesoriero as the first Executive Director of the organization.
Tesoriero has a 35+ year career in business, communications and municipal service in both the private and public sectors in the New York region. He serves as the Assistant to the Mayor for the Village of Northport encouraging community engagement, transparency and forward-thinking policies to effect positive change and improve efficiencies.
Robert Bontempi, Chairman of the 1653 Foundation Board, stated, “That we were able to attract a versatile and visionary leader like Don Tesoriero attests to the strength of the 1653 Foundation mission and our growing record of success. Don has already been instrumental in securing government grants and corporate donations to the Town of over $1.5 million and we are confident that is only the beginning!”
Tesoriero said, “I am pleased to join this worthy organization, and further contribute to the Town where my wife and I started our family and where we have lived for 28 years. It is fitting that this announcement comes on Founder’s Day in the Town, a day that the 1653 Foundation will promote throughout our various upcoming initiatives. I believe that municipalities and organizations like ours can and should be a force for good in the community, and we will actively seek opportunities that align with the mission and vision of the Foundation.”
On April 7, Councilwoman Jane Bonner was joined by County, State and Federal officials at the “Take Back 25” litter clean-up along Route 25 [Middle Country Road] in Coram, Middle Island, Gordon Heights and Ridge.
The event was sponsored by the Town of Brookhaven, the Coram Civic Association and the Longwood Central Schools.
Vinny with rescued Lincoln an African Sulcata Tortoise. Photo from Long Island Game Farm
New “Good Friends Volunteer Corps” Supports the Long Island Game Farm
The Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability, Inc. has announced the launch of the Good Friends Volunteer Corps, which supports programming and events at Long Island Game Farm in Manorville. Individuals with a love of nature and animals and a desire to expand their community can get involved, enjoy the outdoors, and meet new like-minded friends. In honor of National Volunteer Month, the organizations are highlighting the work of one stalwart volunteer who has made great strides to support the resident game farm animals and promote a sense of responsibility for the natural world.
Vinny Scandariato is a school teacher on Long Island. He first fell in love with the rescued African sulcata tortoises at the game farm, and expressed an interest in teaching visitors to the game farm about the species.
“Vinny is an encyclopedia of information,” shares president Melinda Novak. “He’s also very patient and very kind, making him a great educator. Vinny would volunteer almost every weekend in the summer. When he saw there were school groups booked on certain days, he would offer to come and teach.”
Vinny says,” Volunteering at the Long Island Game Farm has been a pleasure. Each animal has a distinct personality. Every day that I volunteer brings new insights into the lives of these beautiful creatures. Equally important, I leave the Game Farm eagerly anticipating my next volunteer experience. I feel lucky to have the opportunity to volunteer here and interact with such great people.”
Last September, the Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability hosted its first fundraiser to support the work of Long Island Game Farm. Scandariato was honored at the event as the Volunteer of the Year.
The new “Good Friends Volunteer Corps” offers many opportunities for those looking to get involved, including maintenance, gardening, guest services, animal education, story time, and helping at special events. All opportunities will take place at the Long Island Game Farm. Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older. Advance registration is requested by calling the game farm at 631.878.6670 or emailing Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability executive director Tricia Snyder at [email protected].
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION FOR WILDLIFE SUSTAINABILITY
The mission of the Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability, Inc. is to connect people with wildlife and the natural environment through awareness activities and engaging experiences, and to support the work of the Long Island Game Farm. For more information, visit wildlifesustainability.org, or contact executive director Tricia Snyder at [email protected].
ABOUT LONG ISLAND GAME FARM
Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park and Children’s Zoo was founded in 1970 by Stanley and Diane Novak. As the largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on Long Island, they offer families a natural environment where they can learn about wildlife and animals through education and entertainment. A member of American Association of Zookeepers and Zoological Association of America, the farm is located at 489 Chapman Boulevard, Manorville, New York 11949. For more information, visit longislandgamefarm.com, email [email protected], or call 631.878.6644. Find Long Island Game Farm on Instagram and Facebook at @longislandgamefarm.
Nine Suffolk County Community College students have been honored for their academic achievements by three prestigious organizations that recognize academic achievement, excellence and leadership. Several of the students have earned multiple awards.
Seven students were awarded The State University of New York’s (SUNY) highest honor, The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence; eight are Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-State recipients, and three are Coca-Cola scholars.
“We take immense pride in the remarkable accomplishments of these outstanding students,” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College. “These are students who are engaged in their home and college communities; they innovate, dream, and achieve. Their dedication and exceptional efforts underscore their extraordinary potential.
About the awards:
The student recipients of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence are recognized for their integration of academic excellence with other aspects of their lives including leadership, campus involvement, community service, arts (creative or performing).
Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 4.3 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges.
The Coca-Cola Academic Team recognizes high achieving college students who demonstrate academic excellence and intellectual rigor combined with leadership and service that extends their education beyond the classroom to benefit society.
The 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholars are awarded $1,500 scholarships and Silver Scholar’s receive a $1,250 scholarship. Each scholar also receives a commemorative medallion. Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.
Award Recipients:
Sabrina Franco
Sabrina Franco – PTK All-NY State and SUNY Chancellor’s Award
Sabrina Franco, a Music major from Bay Shore, NY has a 3.9 GPA and has earned Dean’s List recognition every semester for the last two years. Sabrina holds the positions of Vice President of Scholarship for PTK’s Alpha Zeta Nu Chapter, Senator of the Student Government Association at the Ammerman Campus, and is a Northwell Community Scholar. She is a member of the Honors Program, the college’s Symphonic Band and PTK’s Community College All-State Academic Team. Sabrina volunteers with New York State Association for Bilingual Education, an organization which addresses the needs of English language and bilingual learning students. She plans to attend Hofstra University and study music.
Joseph Gonzalez
Joseph Gonzalez– PTK All-NY State, PTK All- USA, SUNY Chancellor’s Award
Joseph Gonzalez, a Liberal Arts-History major from West Babylon, NY, excels with a 4.0 GPA and consecutive Dean’s List recognition for the last two years. He holds key leadership positions at the college, including PTK Chapter President, President of Student Veterans of America, Honors Club President, and History Club Vice President. Joseph is a Get There From Here scholar, an EOP Tutor and a member of the prestigious 2024 All-USA Academic Team. He was named New York State’s 2024 New Century Transfer Scholar and was the recipient of the Prestigious David R. Pierce Scholarship. He plans to attend Columbia University and study history.
Ali Jedlicka
Ali Jedlicka – PTK All-NYState, Coca-Cola Gold Scholar, SUNY Chancellor’s Award
Ali Jedlicka, a Liberal Arts Psychology major from East Quogue, NY, holds a 4.0 GPA and consistently earns Dean’s List recognition. As Vice President of Scholarship for Phi Theta Kappa’s Alpha Eta Psi Chapter, she was a keynote speaker at the fall 2023 Induction Ceremony. Ali, a member of the PTK All USA Academic Team, is also a dedicated Peer Mentor and Honors program member. Beyond academics, she volunteers for Bide-a-wee Animal Shelter and Maureen’s Haven Homeless Outreach Program, showcasing her commitment to community service and making a positive impact. She plans to attend St. Joseph’s University and study psychology.
Arshiyan Khan, a Business Administration Honors major from Selden, NY, has an impressive 4.0 Arshiyan Khan, GPA and consistent Dean’s List honors for the past two years. As a Get There From Here Scholar, Arshiyan holds prominent leadership roles, serving as President of the Business and Accounting Club, Vice President of Leadership for PTK’s Alpha Zeta Nu Chapter, and Treasurer of the Student Government Association at the Ammerman Campus. A member of PTK’s Community College All-State Academic Team, Arshiyan is actively involved in the Rotaract Community Service Club and dedicates time as an orientation leader and regular volunteer at the Ammerman Campus Food Pantry. He plans to attend Stony Brook University to study accounting.
Valery Marquez, a Business Administration major from Brentwood, NY has a 3.6 GPA and has earned Dean’s List recognition every semester for the last two years. Valery is a Get There From Here scholar and serves as President of the Student Government Association at the Michael J. Grant Campus, a dedicated Conduct Board Member, and a visionary Founder of the First-Generation Club. A member of PTK’s Community College All-State team, Valery actively volunteer at the campus food pantry and coordinates donors for the campus blood drives. She plans to transfer to Fordham University to pursue a degree in Business Administration and then attend law school, aiming to make a positive impact in public interest and policy law.
Krista Padilla – PTK All-NY State
Krista Padilla, a Business Administration major from Bronx, NY has a 3.7 GPA and has earned placement on the Dean’s List. Krista is a member of Phi Theta Kappa.
Melissa Ramos
Melissa Ramos -SUNY Chancellor’s Award
Melissa Ramos, a Political Science Major from Brentwood, NY, maintains a remarkable 3.9 GPA and consistent Dean’s List recognition. Beyond her academics, she chairs the Rotaract Community Service Club, serves on the Brentwood Advisory Board, and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Pi Alpha Sigma, and the Art Club. Melissa actively volunteers at Iglesia De Dios El Buen Camino, supporting her church and local charities by selling food to raise funds. Her commitment to academics, leadership, and community service not only exemplifies excellence but also makes a positive impact on both her academic and local communities. She plans to study political science at Hofstra University.
Daisa Reynosa
Daisa Reynosa – PTK All-NY State, Chancellors Award
Daisa Reynosa, a Business Administration major from Westhampton Beach, NY, has a 3.7 GPA, and has earned Dean’s List recognition each semester. Daisa serves as the President of both Alpha Beta Gamma and Alpha Sigma Lambda. She actively contributes to the campus community as a member of the Campus Activities Board and is a member of PTK’s Community College All-State Academic Team. Daisa also serves as an Office Assistant for the Eastern Campus Department of ESL. Her advocacy for ESL students is evident through her dedicated efforts to ensure their inclusion in all campus club activities.
Madonna Rodriguez – PTK All-NY State
Madonna Rodriguez, a Nursing LPN to RN major from Mastic Beach NY, holds a 3.7 GPA, and has earned Dean’s List recognition every semester for the last two years. Madonna serves as a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Pi Alpha Sigma. She plans to work as an LPN at Wellridge Addiction Treatment Facility in Calverton, NY.
About Suffolk County Community College
Suffolk County Community College is the largest community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling approximately 21,000 students at its three campuses in Selden, Brentwood and Riverhead. Suffolk offers the Associate in Arts (A.A.), Associate in Science (A.S.), and Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees, as well as a variety of certificate programs. Offering affordable college tuition, a highly respected Honors program, workforce training programs, extensive extracurricular activities, championship athletic teams, and numerous transfer programs, Suffolk is a first-choice college for Long Island students. Visit them online at sunysuffolk.edu.
Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the man who allegedly stole from a Lake Grove store this month.
A man allegedly stole sunglasses, valued at $3,115, from Sunglass Hut, located in the Smith Haven Mall, on April 11 at approximately 8 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 at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.
More than 100 Suffolk County kids bowled with officers from the Suffolk County Police Department’s 6th and 7th Precincts at Coram Country Lanes in Coram. The inaugural event, entitled “Bowling with a Cop” and hosted by the two precincts, was free for kids and took place on Saturday, April 6.
The event gave kids an opportunity to get to know their local police officers in a fun, casual setting. While the event welcomed kids from kindergarten up through high school, the majority of attendees were in the 9-14 age range.
“We are working on building the relationships between police and our youth,” said Officer Stacie Pollio, who is a School Resource Officer with the 7th Precinct. “By hosting these types of events, we are making memories and impacting lives in a positive way.”
The precincts reached out to neighboring school districts and quickly reached capacity for the event. Officers went around from lane to lane to spend time with the kids. In addition to two games of bowling, the kids were also treated to pizza and soft drinks.
“We were thrilled to work with the men and women in blue on this wonderful inaugural community event,” said Joe LaSpina, Vice President of Maple Family Lanes, which owns Coram Country Lanes. “Bowling is a fun activity that brings people together, and there were a lot of smiles at our bowling center that day as the kids and officers bonded over bowling and pizza. I am sure it will be a memorable experience for all in attendance.”
Coram Country Lanes is located at 615 Middle Country Road in Coram.
For more information or to set up an interview, contact Ron Gold at 516-297-1637 or [email protected].
About Maple Family Centers
Providing fun for friends and families since 1960, Maple Family Centers consists of five family-owned bowling centers including Coram Country Lanes in Coram, N.Y.; Maple Lanes RVC in Rockville Centre, N.Y.; Jib Lanes in Flushing, N.Y.; Maple Lanes Countryside in Clearwater, Fla; and Orange Bowl Lanes in Lakeland, Fla. A third-generation family-owned and operated company, Maple Family Centers is all about entertaining the community and building relationships. President John LaSpina and Vice President Joe LaSpina share their joy of bowling with families and sports enthusiasts and lead MFC in supporting the needs of the community by creating fundraising opportunities for not-for-profit agencies.
Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are investigating an incident in which a man was shot in his wallet at an apartment complex in Coram on April 17.
An unknown person fired multiple shots into a vehicle located at the intersection of Homestead Drive
and Grant Court inside the Homestead Village Apartment Complex at approximately 10:50 a.m. A bullet became lodged in the wallet of a man who was inside the vehicle. The man was not injured.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Sixth Squad at 631-854-8652 or
Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.
Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a woman who allegedly stole from an Islandia store in March.
A woman allegedly stole socks and shoes from Famous Footwear, located at 1770 Memorial Highway, at approximately 6:50 p.m. on March 11.
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.
Pictured at the Legislature are Dr. Sylvia Diaz and Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office
In 2022, the Legislature passed a resolution that each Legislator shall designate a Diversity Champion for their district in April of every year. The honoree is one who demonstrates an openness in thinking and respects diverse racial, cultural and ethnic differences.
Sylvia Diaz received her Ph.D. from the School of Social Work at SUNY Stony Brook. Dr. Diaz has had a long career in Suffolk County government where she headed the Office of Minority Affairs, then the Division of Human Services and lastly served as the Chief Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Social Services. She left public service in 2003, to serve as the Regional Vice President for the American Cancer Society. A position she held until 2013, when she joined the Suffolk County Community College Foundation as its Executive Director. She was there until early this year.
This past January, newly elected County Executive Ed Romaine appointed her as his Deputy County Executive for Health, Human Services and Education. Currently, she is serving as the Acting Commissioner of the Department of Social Services while a search is underway for a candidate to fill the position of Commissioner.
Legislator Trotta said, “I am thrilled to have a woman of Dr. Diaz’s caliber as my honoree and am confident that she will be a valuable asset to County Executive Ed Romaine and the residents of Suffolk County.”
Suffolk County Police arrested an employee at a smoke shop for allegedly selling cannabis and illegal vape products without a license in Huntington Station on April 18.
In response to community complaints, Second Precinct Crime Section officers and Town of Huntington Fire Marshal and Building Department executed a search warrant at Rollie’s Smoke Shop IV, located at 278 E. Jericho Turnpike at approximately 2:15 p.m. The investigators seized marijuana, THC marijuana vapes, large quantities of flavor vape products as well as cash.
An employee, Pardeep Kumar was arrested and charged with three counts of alleged Unlawful Sale of Cannabis, three counts of Sale of Cannabis Without a License, Unlawful Possession of Cannabis, two counts of Criminal Using Drug Paraphernalia 2nd Degree, and Unlawful Sale of Flavor Vapes.
The Town of Huntington issued several violations and is conducting a further investigation into the business. Kumar, 35, of Bellerose, was issued a Desk Appearance Ticket and is scheduled to appear at First
District Court in Central Islip on May 8.
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