The staff at TBR News Media wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday filled with the warmth and happiness of the season! The office will be closed for the holidays on Nov. 28 and 29. We will reopen on Monday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In light of this week’s article about Helping Hands and their phenomenal humanitarian work in our Long Island communities, it is difficult not to be moved by an organization like this, as we approach Thanksgiving.
Every last Thursday of November, we look forward to passing around cranberry sauce, crunchy stuffing and gravy-soaked turkey with the ones we love. Most people catch up with family they haven’t seen since the previous holiday, laugh about those age-old anecdotes relatives have been retelling for decades and maybe lounge around the TV in a “food-coma,” watching AMC’s yearly “Godfather” marathon.
But, as we anticipate Thursday’s day of rest, it is important to remember that the first part of the word Thanksgiving is “thanks.” Yes, many peoples’ families may cook year after year, but we shouldn’t come to accept it blindly. It is not something we should take for granted. Cooking for the ones we love is one of the kindest, most unifying acts we can bestow, and it is not as simple as putting a turkey into the oven.
With every hour of preparation cooks put into their Thanksgiving meals, they are not just putting in an hour of labor — they are putting in an hour of love, appreciation and devotion, for everyone they are cooking for. Appreciate them. Say thank you.
And while we should be cognizant of our loved ones on Thanksgiving, we must also think of those less fortunate. If we take the time to show gratitude for our family, we are one step closer to being able to show gratitude to strangers in need. To following the second part of the word.
According to Long Island Care’s website, over 220 thousand Long Islanders are food insecure, which is defined as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.” That is a startling number, and proves that more help is needed in serving these individuals.
This Thanksgiving, enjoy the turkey, but consider stopping by a local food pantry with a donation, as well. It could be the difference between a day of sorrow and a day of joy for a family in need. And sometimes gratitude most rewards the giver.
Prepared by the Scofield family
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William Metcalfe Scofield of Port Jefferson. William passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 88.
William was born Jan. 12, 1936, in Goshen to Mary Louise and George Scofield. He joined a growing family that included his brother Doug and sister Sonya. Another brother, Buddy, had passed at a young age. The Scofield family later moved to Port Jefferson, where George had taken a teaching position in the school district.
At Port Jefferson High School, William was an All-County basketball and baseball player, graduating in 1954. It was also at Port Jefferson High that he met his future wife, Lillian, in a memorable encounter — he shot her with a paper clip to get her attention. The playful gesture sparked a lifelong connection, and the couple married in 1956, celebrating 68 years together.
After graduating high school, William and Lillian moved to Canton, where he attended St. Lawrence University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s in education while working summers on the St. Lawrence Seaway. During their time in Canton, the couple welcomed their first two children, Richard and Gary.
William participated in ROTC during college and, upon graduation, reported to Fort Knox, Ky., as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. While stationed at Fort Knox, the couple had their daughter Dorene. After completing his service, William and his family returned to Port Jefferson, where he followed in his father’s footsteps by taking a teaching position at Port Jefferson High School.
For the next 30 years, William taught mathematics at the high school, earning the respect of students and colleagues alike. He also served as the junior varsity baseball coach alongside his close friend Al Desiderio, who coached the varsity team. The duo — beloved by players and fans — dedicated three decades to the sport. In one of life’s fitting moments, William, known as #18, has now joined Al, #39, in heaven’s hall of fame.
After retiring in 1991, William embraced a life filled with golf, traveling, family and personal projects. His years of retirement were marked by cherished moments spent with his growing family.
William is survived by his wife Lillian, children Rich, Gary and Dorene, 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Rest in peace, William. You will be deeply missed. Fairways and greens.
Viewings were held at Bryant Funeral Home in East Setauket on Sunday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. A short service followed on Monday, Nov. 25, with interment at Calverton National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to First United Methodist Church and Save-a-Pet in Port Jefferson.
Prepared by the Hinton family
Barbara Hinton (née Herberger), 86, of Northport Village, New York, passed away on Nov. 19, 2024. She was the loving mother of Stephanie Hinton and Jennifer FitzMaurice and her husband John. She was a dear grandmother to Emma Smith, step-grandmother to Michael FitzMaurice and his wife Jane and Greg FitzMaurice and his wife Briana, and sister to Connie Bennett and brother-in-law Gordon McClelland.
A native of Baldwin, Long Island, Barbara was born on March 4, 1938, and graduated in 1955 from Baldwin High School. In 1957, she attended Endicott Junior College in Beverly, Massachusetts. After a brief time in Boston, she relocated to San Francisco, California, where she worked for I. Magnin, a luxury department store. In 1963, she married her late husband William Hinton. The two shared a mutual love of opera and crossword puzzles.
Since 1972, Barbara was a proud and active member of the Northport Village community. She was involved with the Northport Historical Society, served as a Cow Harbor Day Race host family and was a member of the Northport Yacht Club. She also contributed to the Altar Guild at Trinity Episcopal Church and St. John’s Episcopal Church in Huntington. Additionally, she was a prominent real estate broker with Sammis and Coldwell Banker for more than 50 years.
Barbara loved life. She cherished the beach, sailing, international travel, playing bridge, reading murder mysteries, watching British TV programs, entertaining, drinking a good cosmopolitan, eating lobster rolls on Cape Cod and making hors d’oeuvres. She adored opera, classical music, interior design and the paintings of Chagall. A loyal friend who enriched the lives of many, Barbara will be deeply missed.
A funeral service was held on Nov. 22, 2024, officiated by the Rev. Duncan Burn of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Huntington. Donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to the American Lung Association at lung.org.
Prepared by the Giles family
Helen Giles, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away on April 17 in Port Jefferson, at the age of 87. She was surrounded by the love of her children, Steven, Brian (Sarah) and Karen, and her grandson Mark.
Helen was born in Mastic to Ylia (John) and Akila (Kate) Weremchuk and had two brothers, George and Walter, all of whom preceded her in death. After graduating high school, Helen worked at Grumman in Calverton for several years before marrying Bruce Giles of Port Jefferson. Bruce, who passed away in 1984, and Helen lived in Setauket, where they raised their three children.
Helen was known as a devoted wife, mother, homemaker and friend. With strength and resilience, she carried on after Bruce’s death from leukemia at age 50. Family was always Helen’s priority. She took great joy in gardening, cooking, summer BBQs on the patio, (her baked beans were a family favorite,) and baking Christmas cookies. She particularly cherished making holidays special for her family. Helen also loved the beach and often took her young children to the ocean, a tradition the family continued into adulthood. Cupsogue Beach became a cherished legacy for them.
A private family prayer service was held for Helen at O.B. Davis Funeral Homes in Port Jefferson. Her ashes were interred with Bruce’s remains at Cedar Hill Cemetery. The family later held a small memorial to honor Helen’s life at her Saddle Lakes home in Riverhead, where she had lived for the past twelve years.
On Aug. 18, an intense rainfall event — dropping approximately 10 inches overnight — resulted in catastrophic flooding, severely damaging local landmarks including the Stony Brook Mill Pond, the Stony Brook Grist Mill (1751), and Avalon Nature Preserve.
We are calling on all levels of government — federal, New York State, the Department of Environmental Conservation, the NYS Department of Transportation, Suffolk County and the towns of Brookhaven, Smithtown and Village of Head of the Harbor — to collaborate in the restoration efforts. It is imperative that every elected official work together to restore the Stony Brook Mill Pond, Stony Brook Grist Mill and Avalon Park’s primary access route.
These cherished heritage and nature destinations are integral to our communities, encouraging visitors to explore both the rich history and the natural beauty of the area. Both the Stony Brook Mill Pond and the Stony Brook Grist Mill are listed on the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places.
The Stony Brook Mill Pond has been of ecological and economic importance for centuries. Before the storm, it provided sustenance and shelter for a variety of wildlife species and played a critical role in stormwater management. The Mill Pond has been a vital component of the Grist Mill’s operations, powering the waterwheel of this iconic Long Island landmark since 1751.
Avalon Nature Preserve, a protected area spanning 216 acres —140 of which are accessible to the public — boasts diverse flora and fauna. It features walking trails, a wildflower meadow and woodlands. Access to the Avalon Nature Preserve has been severely impacted by the destruction of Harbor Road.
The Three Village Chamber of Commerce respectfully asks for your support in these restoration efforts. Representing the Three Village business network, this work is vital to helping the business community in Stony Brook thrive once again.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Three Village Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors
President Carmine Inserra
Michael Ardolino
Heather Banoub
Robert Brown
Perry Cassidy
Leah S. Dunaief
Colette Frey-Bitzas
Susie Kaiserman
Kenneth P. Kroncke
Ronald J. LaVita
Edwin Miller
Andy Polan
David Prestia
Gloria Rocchio
Nicole Sarno
Martha Stansbury
John C. Tsunis
President Emeritus Charles Lefkowitz
Letter to Gov. Hochul on delayed FEMA reimbursements for Stony Brook University Hospital by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine
Since 2022, Stony Brook University Hospital, including Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital and Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, Long Island State Veterans Home and Stony Brook University have been actively engaged with SUNY and the Division of Budget in submitting claims totaling over $195 million for reimbursement from the Federal Emergency Management Agency pursuant to the Robert T Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Stafford act) after the nationwide emergency declaration for the COVID-19 pandemic. Per FEMA, this act provides for “eligible emergency protective measures taken to respond to the COVID-19 emergency at the direction or guidance of public health officials may be reimbursed under Category B of FEMA’s Public Assistance program.”
Stony Brook University Hospital, et al., have submitted thousands of eligible expenses and documentation for reimbursement for 100% federal cost for expenses incurred prior to July 1, 2022, and 90% federal cost for expenses incurred after July 2, 2022, by all requested deadlines. FEMA committed to apply federal funding to all eligible COVID-19 costs for work performed and items including employee labor, purchased supplies, equipment, leased equipment and facilities and contract costs.
Private hospitals applied for reimbursement directly to FEMA and have been reimbursed. SUNY’s hospitals were required to apply through the DOB who would then submit the applications to FEMA. Since SBUH is not the applicant, it was unable to contact FEMA directly. Stony Brook University Hospital, et al., have been in communication with the DOB and have urged it to ask FEMA to expedite the process.
On Sept. 8, 2024, Stony Brook Medicine representatives met with SUNY and DOB, which revealed that FEMA seems overwhelmed by pandemic-related reimbursement across the nation.
Representatives from SUNY, DOB and Sen. Chuck Schumer’s (D) office have a request into FEMA for a meeting.
I join with them in urging prompt payment to Stony Brook University, Stony Brook University hospitals, and the Long Island State Veterans Home. I would also ask that pandemic relief deadlines be extended.
Stony Brook University and Stony Brook Hospital is Suffolk County’s largest employer and one of our economic engines. Delays in FEMA reimbursements affect the university and the general economy of Suffolk County.
Edward P. Romaine
Suffolk County Executive
Not an experiment
Stefanie Werner [“Three Village BOE’s costly sleep experiment,” TBR News Media, Nov. 14] is certainly entitled to her opinion that the benefits of moving to later high school start times are not worth the financial cost (less than 1% of the budget).
However, she is not entitled to dismiss the well-established evidence that even a modest delay in school start times leads to significant benefits for adolescent students. Research from dozens of studies has conclusively shown that later start times result in more sleep, improved attendance, higher grades and fewer car crashes. These findings are not a “fantasy belief.” They are supported by extensive scientific evidence. That is why the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends secondary schools start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. — a standard the new plan still falls short of by 50 minutes. It is also why states such as California and Florida have passed laws mandating later school start times for secondary students.
The Three Village BOE is not conducting an “experiment.” The experiments have already been done, and the results are clear. The only question is whether we are willing to act on this well-documented evidence.
John Hover
East Setauket
Batteries vs. community safety
As a resident of Setauket, I am deeply concerned about the proposed battery storage facilities slated for construction near our neighborhoods, including one location in close proximity to a home for individuals with developmental disabilities. These facilities pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of our community, and I urge local officials and residents to reconsider their placement.
The continuous noise levels expected from these facilities — around 50 decibels — may not seem excessive on paper, but for those with sensory sensitivities or specific needs, it could be highly disruptive. For the residents of the nearby home, this could lead to unnecessary distress and challenges that could easily be avoided with a better site selection.
Moreover, there are substantial safety concerns. At a recent community meeting, experts noted that fires at battery storage sites are exceptionally difficult to extinguish, potentially resulting in days of harmful smoke, chemicals and toxins polluting the air. This is not a hypothetical scenario; incidents involving battery energy storage systems have already occurred in other parts of New York, with devastating consequences for the environment and public health.
While renewable energy solutions are essential, these facilities must be sited in appropriate locations — away from residential areas, schools and sensitive community spaces. The risk to our children, families and first responders is simply too great to justify their current proposed locations.
We must advocate for thoughtful, safe and community-centered planning to ensure that renewable energy initiatives do not come at the expense of our health and safety.
Together, we can make a difference and protect what makes Setauket a great place to live.
Brian Baker
Setauket
Toxic batteries don’t belong in our backyard
I am writing regarding the battery facility that is proposed for the Setauket/East Setauket area. This facility will put our community and residents in danger of fires, which would burn and release toxic chemicals into the air, but it’s a health hazard for our children, families and our communities. I am opposed to having a battery facility so close to our residential areas and our homes where our children and grandchildren play. It is a hazard that needs to be kept out. Please highlight this issue in your next publication so that the community is made aware of this. Many people don’t know about it and need to be informed.
Stacy Doerler-Antonucci
Port Jefferson Station
New risks, old lessons
I live in Setauket Meadows. Previously I lived on Pheasant Lane and Parsonage Road. These are all within a short walking distance of the proposed lithium battery storage facilities on Old Town Road and Sheep Pasture Road. I understand the conflicts that can arise when residences butt up against industrial property, but usually a compromise is reached.
However, now we have a very new technology with some known hazards and some unknown ones. These facilities would have unmanned security and have the risk of fire and or air contamination.
Savion is the company proposing these installations. They are only five years old as a company. Where and when have they built before? What were the problems? These questions need to be answered before any permits are issued. What would happen if we had another nine-day power outage due to a hurricane or brush fire in the area? Who would evacuate the toddlers and memory-impaired adults who are cared for at the facility right next to the proposed storage facility? The company has said this site was chosen due to its location in an area that has a high need for energy. Really? Wouldn’t the university be a better choice?
Just down the road we have a prime example of an industry contaminating acres. The owner of Lawrence Aviation abandoned his responsibilities and the rest of us paid the full price.
Let’s not do this again. Let’s not trade the environmental hazards of fossil fuel for the environmental hazards of unproven technology.
Mary Negra
Setauket
Community at risk: The hidden dangers of proposed battery storage facilities
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the battery storage facilities that are proposed for Setauket and East Setauket. These facilities will go right up to the backyards of many homeowners, as well as businesses, schools and places of worship in the Three Village community. Many of these community members are completely unaware that these projects are slated for construction starting as early as 2025.
Many have voiced frustration that many simple requests to the Town of Brookhaven are denied, and yet a project of this magnitude and scope is allowed to be proposed to the town without any notification and buy-in from the very people who will have to live and work right next to these facilities.
These battery storage facilities have dubious safety records as there have been many reports of these facilities catching fire. These fires are not able to simply be extinguished and must burn themselves out (likely taking days), thereby further endangering the community with the potential exposure to toxic smoke, chemicals and runoff.
This community has already dealt with the negligence of corporations such as Northville Industries and Lawrence Aviation whose irresponsible practices have already created a negative impact on the community that is still being felt today.
Please highlight this issue and its importance in your next issue as it is imperative that everyone in our community be aware of this project, thereby encouraging people to take action and also voice their concerns to the Town of Brookhaven.
Three Village residents
Xingtao Liu, Shannon Carlson, Brenda-Jimenez-Tillman, Caroline Guo and Robert Tu
Letter to Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich from the Three Village Civic Association: Addressing safety concerns over Setauket battery storage plans
Dear Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich,
As you know, the Three Village Civic Association recently held a community meeting in early November to learn about Savion Energy Systems’ proposed plans to construct two large battery storage facilities in Setauket.
Our association certainly understands the importance of battery storage facilities for the electrical energy generated by solar and wind. These facilities are key in powering the grid under the New York State green energy plans. However, our community is alarmed at the size and location of the planned battery storage facilities in the Three Villages as proposed by Savion Energy Systems, particularly in regard to their close proximity to residential neighborhoods.
We reviewed the Town’s battery storage code, which was only added to the Town’s Zoning Code in 2020. This new code permits Tier 2 facilities (SGT;600kw) to be located in L1 and L2 Zoning Districts without any consideration to the specific location of the L1 and L2 Zones. Under the current code, there is no consideration given to nearby or adjacent residential neighborhoods, schools, assisted living facilities, retirement communities, day care centers etc. We are sure you agree that this is problematic.
We also reviewed the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s model code for siting battery storage facilities which recommends that local municipalities establish a battery storage task force to review and adopt policies that would regulate aspects of battery storage development within towns and villages.
It is important to note the following from NYSERDA Model Energy Storage Guidebook:
Appoint a Battery Energy Storage Task Force (“Task Force”) that represents all interested stakeholders including residents, businesses, interested non-profit organizations, the battery energy storage industry, utilities and relevant municipal officials and staff to prepare an action plan, adopt or amend a comprehensive plan to include battery energy storage system planning goals and actions and develop local laws and/or other regulations to ensure the orderly development of battery energy storage system projects.
Charge the Task Force with conducting meetings on a communitywide basis to involve all key stakeholders, gather all available ideas, identify divergent groups and views and secure support from the entire community. The Task Force should also conduct studies and determine whether existing policies, plans and land use regulations require amendments to remove barriers and to facilitate battery energy storage system development goals.
We think that suggestion makes sense and Brookhaven should establish a Battery Storage Task Force to formulate guidelines before any battery storage facilities are approved.
Thank you for your attention and consideration in this important matter.
Charles Tramontana
President, Three Village Civic Association
Herb Mones
Land Use Chair, Three Village Civic Association
Three Village Civic Association Executive Board
Prepared by the Meade family
Joseph J. Meade of Northport died on Nov. 1.
He was the beloved husband of June; loving father of Kerri Anne (Richard) Aab and Laura Marie (John) Galgano; and devoted grandfather of Arabella Aab. He was also the cherished brother of Richard (Doris), Gregory (Cathy), and Terence (Roy Kertelits); and the late Michael (the late Patricia) and Peter (Peggy). He is survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Services were entrusted to Nolan Funeral Home of Northport. A funeral Mass was held at St. Philip Neri Church in Northport. Interment with U.S. Army military honors followed at Calverton National Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at t2t.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org
Prepared by the Neilson family
Geoffrey J. Neilson, 82, of Cedar Point, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, Oct. 14.
Born April 13, 1942, in Queens, Geoff was one of six sons of the late Henry and Margaret Neilson. He honorably served in the U.S. Navy, where he was stationed aboard the renowned wartime USS Blenny. His time in the Navy brought him great joy, as he held a lifelong appreciation for submarines.
Following his military service, Geoff pursued higher education at Hofstra University, earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in speech pathology. He and his wife, Linda, settled in East Setauket, New York, where they lived for 33 years and raised their two sons. During that time, Geoff devoted 29 years to a fulfilling career as a speech therapist in the local school district. He positively impacted the lives of thousands, helping them communicate more effectively and express their thoughts.
Geoff was also deeply involved in athletics within the school district and the community. He served as a varsity baseball coach, Little League coach and mentor in other sports, inspiring countless young athletes with his strategic mind and passion for the game.
After retiring, Geoff continued to live a life of service and community involvement. He found great fulfillment training service dogs with Life Line K9s and volunteering at the Beaufort Maritime Museum, where he helped build ships. A lifelong lover of animals, he also contributed his time to the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter in Newport, North Carolina.
Geoff will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of service, mentorship and love for others will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Linda B. Neilson; his sons, Glenn Neilson (Kristina) of Dublin, Ohio and Greg Neilson of Norcross, Georgia; his brothers, Doug Neilson (Betty) of Maryland, Rick Neilson (Denise) of Virginia and Kurt Neilson (Dina) of Oregon; and his granddaughter, Meredith.
In addition to his parents, Geoff was preceded in death by his brothers Henry Neilson and Keith Neilson.
Memorial contributions may be made to 3HC Hospice, P.O. Box 640, Newport, NC 28570, or the American Prostate Cancer Foundation, 1250 Fourth St., Santa Monica, CA 90401.
Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.
Arrangements are by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory, Morehead City, North Carolina.
Prepared by the Ferguson family
Dennis A. Ferguson Sr., a retired Nassau County police officer and former resident of Farmingdale and Venice, Florida, passed away in Sunset Beach, North Carolina on Oct. 15. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn (Abramoske); his children, Susanne and Dennis Jr. (Anibelle); and his granddaughter, Gabriella. A memorial visitation was held at Nolan Funeral Home in Northport.
In lieu of flowers, donations made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, North Carolina, or online at www.lifecare.org, would be greatly appreaciated.
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