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Alejandro Vargas-Diaz
Alejandro Vargas-Diaz Hid in Florida for Three Years After He Shot Albert Luis Rodriguez-Lopez at a Port Jefferson Pool Hall in 2018

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on July 24 that Alejandro Vargas-Diaz, 41, of Port Jefferson, pleaded guilty to Murder in the Second Degree and other related charges for the 2018 fatal shooting of 27-year-old Albert Luis Rodriguez-Lopez, a father of three and resident of Selden.

“For five years, the relatives and loved ones of Mr. Rodriguez-Lopez have waited for justice for this senseless murder. Today, with his admission of guilt, justice has been served,” said District Attorney Tierney. “While the defendant may have prolonged his freedom by hiding out in another state, it was only a matter of time before the law caught up with him and now, he is being held to account for his actions.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s statements during his guilty plea allocution, on July 22, 2018, Vargas-Diaz and the victim got into an argument inside a pool hall in Port Jefferson. During the argument, the victim punched Vargas-Diaz in the face, knocking him to the ground. A short time later, Vargas-Diaz ambushed the victim inside the pool hall, and shot the victim in the back, neck, and shoulder. The victim died at the scene. Vargas-Diaz immediately fled and absconded from New York state.

One month after the murder, members of Suffolk County Police Department found the murder weapon, a 9 mm pistol, hidden in a tree at the Setauket Port Jefferson Greenway Trail.

On June 18, 2021, nearly three years after the fatal shooting, Vargas-Diaz was arrested by members of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office in Florida after a tip to crime stoppers. Vargas-Diaz was extradited back to Suffolk County on November 11, 2021, to be arraigned on the charges related to the murder.

On July 24,  Vargas-Diaz pleaded guilty before Acting Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Steven A. Pilewski, to Murder in the Second Degree, a Class A violent felony, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, a Class C violent felony.

Vargas-Diaz is due back in court on September 13, 2023 for sentencing, and is expected to be sentenced to 23 years to life in prison. He is being represented by Christopher Brocato, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Elena Tomaro of the Homicide Bureau and Carlos J. Benitez II of the Major Crime Bureau, with investigative assistance from the Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad and Sergeant Norberto Flores of the Internal Affairs Unit.

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Stony Brook University: Entrance sign

Stony Brook University’s Educational Leadership program has received a $700K grant from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) for a multipronged initiative to address the shortage of diverse and well-prepared K-12 school leaders. The grant, Strengthening a Diverse Leadership Pipeline Through Leadership Preparation and Development, arose as a result of a collaboration among faculty from five downstate colleges and universities – Stony Brook, City College of New York, Fordham University, Hofstra University and St. John’s University.

The need for more diverse school leadership was detailed in New York State’s 2019 Educator Diversity Report, which published statistics showing that while most school and district leaders are white, the majority (56%) of the P-12 student population are not.

NYSED Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Representation is critical to providing an equitable, high-quality education, and learning from diverse education leaders provides real, relatable examples for young learners. The Department continues to work to strengthen accessible pathways for educators whose diversity reflects the rich culture of our students and communities.”

The NYSED grant will help leadership candidates from underrepresented groups pursue graduate preparation and will fund a slate of professional development programming for current school leaders at every level – from assistant principals to superintendents.

The initiative will offer “research-based solutions that diversify the available leadership pool while simultaneously developing capacity to promote continuous school improvement for all students,” said Margaret Orr, director of the EdD in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy program at Fordham University and one of the grant’s researchers.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. characterized the grant as “a unique and innovative approach to building a comprehensive leadership development model.” Key components of the initiative include:

  • Funding for qualified teachers to enroll in a graduate program that prepares them for leadership at the building and district levels.

  • Regionally-focused town hall meetings with local stakeholders to identify challenges related to recruiting and retaining diverse leaders.

  • Inquiry-based professional development programs for aspiring and current school leaders to strengthen their skills and improve their schools.

  • Research that involves school leaders and higher education faculty from programs across the state to better understand the challenges and successful strategies used in the field.

“Research and experience reveal that diverse leaders have significant benefits for schools, including defining and articulating a clear vision and mission, increasing recruitment and retention rates, curating positive school cultures and climates, elevating teachers’ voices, increasing family and community engagement, and most importantly enhancing student outcomes,” said Regent Chancellor Young.

For more information, visit https://www.stonybrook.edu/spd/edleadership/dei-grant/

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

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Second Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the men who allegedly stole merchandise from a Huntington store.

Two men allegedly stole driveway sealer from Home Depot, located at 485 New York Ave., on June 29 at approximately 4 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.

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

Just released! Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the man who allegedly stole from a Medford store in May.

A man allegedly stole power tools from Lowes, located at 2796 Route 112, at approximately 12 p.m. on May 10.

For video of this incident, click here or go to YouTube.com/scpdtv Click on Wanted for Medford Petit Larceny 23-340925

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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File photo

Suffolk County Police Sixth Squad detectives are investigating a crash that seriously injured a motorcyclist in Medford on July 23.

Jacobo Olvera-Mendoza was operating a 2007 Suzuki Boulevard motorcycle eastbound on Horseblock Road when he crashed into a westbound 2019 Chevrolet Equinox as it was turning left on to Maine Avenue at approximately 9:25 p.m.

Olvera-Mendoza, 44, of Medford, sustained serious injuries and was transported to Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue before being transferred to Stony Brook University Hospital. The driver of the Chevrolet, Douglas Saslona, 43, of Mastic, was not injured.

Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks. Detectives are asking anyone with information on the crash to contact the Sixth Squad at 631-854-8652.

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The Over 50 Fair will feature free 'Funny Money' Blackjack with Ace Deuce Casinos

Save the date! Organizers of the Over 50 Fair have announced its return to the Huntington Hilton, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville on Sunday, Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

The Over 50 Fair will feature a free photo booth, compliments of The Booking Ace.

This year’s event, its 14th annual, will offer Baby Boomers, seniors, and more the chance to meet with exhibitors and attend classes geared toward them. The Over 50 Fair annually entertains and educates hundreds of Long Islanders.

Each year, many dozens of businesses and non-profits promote local products and services, including health and wellness, education, travel, and financial services, plus some less expected, such as a hypnotist and a divorce attorney.

Some of this year’s “draws” will be a singles lounge compliments of MTN Matchmaking, “funny money” blackjack with Ace Deuce Casinos, and a free photo booth, compliments of Smiles Per Hour. There will also be a live acoustic music showcase,  courtesy of The Booking Ace.

Some of this year’s 20+ classes include “How to Improve Your Dating and Sex Life After 50” with Maureen Tara Nelson, “Three Techniques to Reduce Stress Right Now!” with David Lawrence, and “How My Positive Attitude Helped Me Beat Breast Cancer” with Helen Cernigliaro. Additional classes will include a comedy show and talks on Medicaid and Medicare.

Free health screenings this year will include hearing screenings from HearingLife.  There will also be free energy scans and reiki healings available.

The Over 50 Fair will feature over 80 exhibitors this year.

The Over 50 Fair is the brainchild of East Hills resident Barbara Kaplan who said that the Over 50 Fair is “overflowing with opportunities for age 50+. Our attendees enjoy the opportunity to meet with many experts in their fields all in one place.”

Many local beauty queens from the Ms. New York Senior America pageant attend every year, including CJ Marie, Ms. New York Senior America 2015, and Elisabeth Zamarelli, Ph.D., Elite New York American Beauty 2015. The lovely “queens” will also be hosting a dance demonstration as part of the Seasoned Steppers.

Giving is Living, a local non-profit that helps Long Island’s needy, will be in attendance collecting non-perishable food and funds. Those who donate will receive raffle tickets to win terrific donated prizes.

The event will feature:

    • Over 20 Amazing Classes something to interest and entertain all
    • Over 80 Fabulous Exhibitors so many to speak with
    • Our Singles Lounge – Meet someone special! presented by MTN Matchmaking
    • Free “Funny Money” Blackjack with Ace Deuce Casinos
    • Free Photo Booth compliments of Smiles Per Hour
    • Live Acoustic Music compliments of The Booking Ace
    • Free Energy Scans from Acupuncture Wellness Services
    • Free Hearing Screenings from HearingLife
    • Free Discount Pharmacy Card from All Save Rx
    • Free Reiki Healings with Gentle Soul Discoveries
    • Free Confidential Consultations with Hypnotist David Lawrence
    • Free Mini Makeover Color Consults from Beautycounter
    • LOVELY BEAUTY QUEENS, INCLUDING:  CJ Marie – Ms. New York Senior America 2015 and Elisabeth Zamarelli, Ph.D. – Elite New York American Beauty 2015

Tickets in advance are $5, which includes all classes, exhibits, photo booth, “funny money” blackjack, singles lounge, health screenings, and more. Those who purchase tickets online at www.Over50Fair.com will receive a raffle ticket at the event for a special door prize raffle. Tickets are also available at the door for $7, free for veterans with ID. For more information, call 516-621-1446.

This article previously appeared in Prime Times, TBR News Media’s senior supplement, on July 20.

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File photo

Suffolk County Police Seventh Squad detectives are investigating a crash that killed a motorcyclist on July 22 in Mastic.

Silvano Posadas was operating a 2003 Suzuki motorcycle northbound on Mastic Road when he struck a northbound 2010 Toyota Matrix that was stopped at the intersection of Somerset Avenue waiting to
make a left turn at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Posadas, 35, of Bellport, was transported to Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue where he
was pronounced dead. The driver of the Toyota, Molly Mills, 61, of Medford, was not injured.

Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks. Detectives are asking anyone with information on the
crash to contact the Seventh Squad at 631-852-8752.

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A scene from 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl'

As part of Suffolk County’s Parks After Dark Series, Coindre Hall, 101 Browns Road in Huntington will host a special screening of “Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” under the stars on Friday, August 4 at sunset.

The series, sponsored by the county and the Suffolk County Alliance of Chambers, will continue with a screening of “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” at Indian Island County Park, Indian Point Road in Riverhead on August 18.

“What better way to spend time with family and friends than enjoying a movie under the stars at one of our county parks,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “The county’s Parks After Dark Series … will showcase iconic films that residents of all ages will enjoy.”

“The Suffolk County Alliance of Chambers is happy to partner with County Executive Steve Bellone in sponsoring these exciting ‘Movies After Dark’ in … Suffolk County’s beautiful and illustrious parks,” said Robert Fonti, co-chair of the Suffolk County Alliance of Chambers. “These blockbuster movies will provide fun and an evening under the stars for all families in Suffolk. Looking forward to seeing you at the movies.”

Free tickets are available through Eventbrite. Moviegoers are encouraged to bring their own food and beverages as well as blankets and chairs. Click here to reserve your seat.

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File photo

Suffolk County Police Fifth Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that killed a
bicyclist in Bohemia on July 22.

Melissa Turner was traveling southbound on the shoulder of Lakeland Avenue, south of Smithtown
Avenue, riding an electric bicycle when she collided with a 2023 Ford Bronco traveling southbound in
the right lane at 2:01 p.m.

Turner, 54, of Bohemia, was transported via ambulance to South Shore University Hospital in Bay
Shore where she was pronounced dead. The driver of the Ford, Alex Lorenzo, 32, of Sayville, was not
injured. The Ford and the bicycle were impounded for safety checks. Detectives are asking anyone with
information on the crash to call the Fifth Squad at 631-854-8552.

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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 Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a man who allegedly stole from a Centereach store in June.

A man allegedly stole $819 worth of vitamin supplements from Walmart, located at 161 Centereach Mall, at 6:35 p.m. on June 6.

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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