CLOSE
Authors Posts by TBR Staff

TBR Staff

4829 POSTS 0 COMMENTS
TBR News Media covers everything happening on the North Shore of Suffolk County from Cold Spring Harbor to Wading River.

by -
0 639
Photo by Raymond Janis

Three Village BOE’s costly sleep experiment

At the meeting held Oct. 23, the Three Village Board of Education made another one of its brilliant decisions. Despite [Superintendent Kevin] Scanlon advising both the board and the public that a change in school start times would put a considerable strain on the budget, the board unanimously passed this ridiculous initiative. This change, which has been debated ad nauseum for nearly 2 years, is an enormous waste of money and time. Advocates for this lunacy truly believe that a 30-minute change will have some definitive effect on the sleep patterns of students and their academic success. What they are choosing to ignore is the simple fact that the millions of dollars that this alteration requires will now be taken away from other areas of the budget.

What’s going to happen when programs are discontinued and class sizes rise because we had to pay for the 30 extra minutes kids could stay up on their phones? I won’t keep you in suspense, I’ll just share the result. There will be an exponential uproar and a reconsideration.  Much like the dazzling decision to abolish Do No Harm at this time last year, the board will be forced to rethink the start time aberration as well. And, of course, this is all contingent on the budget vote, which may have several community members rethinking their decision come May. There’s a reason there was so much foot dragging before this vote happened.  Perhaps caving to fantasy beliefs about the sleep fairy granting everyone better grades and stronger attendance was not the best idea. 

      Stefanie Werner

       East Setauket

Campaign thank you letter

Dear Friends, 

I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of my volunteers and supporters for your unwavering dedication throughout my NYS Senate campaign.

Whether you knocked on doors, made calls, donated resources or simply stood by myside, your commitment and hard work have made all the difference, and I am grateful and inspired.

After experiencing seven challenging campaigns as a Suffolk County legislator, I can tellyou first hand that it’s not easy running for political office. I first ran for school board trustee in 2005, and in 2011, I ran for the county legislature and won the 6th Legislative District seat as a Democrat in one of the most Republican county districts, winning seven elections until I was term limited. I overcame political divisiveness by putting people over politics and finding common ground so we could get work done by making communities safer, cleaner and more affordable.

Knowing the local issues and having both foresight and experience, I am proud to have facilitated many successful programs including partnering with law enforcement to create the School Active Violence Emergency (SAVE ) Hotline to provide a direct link for school emergency; chairing Suffolk County’s Addiction Prevention and Support Advisory Panel to address the opioid epidemic, mental health and suicide prevention; creating veterans and seniors resource guides; creating a county business hub and website to expedite the health permit process helping businesses build and expand; working to address the dangers of social media and liquid nicotine to protect our kids; educating our senior citizens on scams; supporting the construction of the North Shore Rail Trail for a safer alternative to recreate; spearheading the cleanup of ocean pollution in Long Island Sound and local harbors; supporting the acquisition of open space to protect our drinking water; and preserving our farmland legacy.

Affordability will continue to be the top issue as we enter into a very turbulent political climate. While this election is over, the work we’ve started doesn’t stop here. The connections we’ve made, the conversations we’ve had, and the ideas we’ve sparked will continue to shape the future. It has been my honor to have worked alongside some of the most dedicated and inspiring people in this county as we continue to make a difference. I wish my opponent the best and look forward to a continued partnership between government and community as we address our future goals.

Sincerely,

        Sarah Anker

  Former Suffolk County legislator and 2024 candidate for NYS Senate

Holiday tips from the postmaster of Selden

As the postmaster for Selden, I want to assure you that the U.S. Postal Service is primed and ready to deliver exceptional service during the 2024 holiday rush. Thanks to the substantial progress USPS has made under the Delivering for America plan — a $40 billion investment aimed at revitalizing the national postal network — our operational, transportation and delivery processes have never been more finely tuned.

My dedicated team and I are fully prepared to handle the peak holiday season surge once again.

As you and your family prepare for the holidays, it’s always a good idea to Ship It Early! We encourage everyone to send their holiday mail and packages well in advance to ensure they reach their destinations on time, but we understand that sometimes cards or packages are sent at the last minute.

 This year, our recommended send-by dates for expected holiday delivery within the continental U.S. before Dec. 25 are:

•Dec. 18: USPS Ground Advantage service; First Class Mail service

•Dec. 19: Priority Mail service

•Dec. 21: Priority Mail Express service

For a complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates, please visit usps.com/holidayshippingdates. And remember:  the earlier you send, the better — Ship it Early!

We are honored and grateful for your trust in the U.S. Postal Service. Your postal team at the Selden Post Office is proud to be the most affordable, reliable way to send cheer this holiday season, and we’re ready to deliver exceptional service during the holidays and beyond.

Warmest regards,

    Valarie Faria

      Postmaster Selden Post Office

by -
0 323
Sherri Shepherd. Photo from BrandPoint

Award-winning TV host, comedian, actress and author Sherri Shepherd is at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) because she has diabetes. She doesn’t want to let it stop her from taking her shot on – or off – the stage. That’s why Sherri is partnering with Pfizer to share her diabetes story and help raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated.

Q: Sherri, there’s no doubt that you’re a superstar in more than one arena. What has helped contribute to your success over the years?

I learned early on that you need to run toward the thing that scares you because that’s where you can really thrive. And let me tell you, starting out in comedy and TV can be scary. But I put in the time practicing jokes on the bus, spending time on the road, working late hours behind the scenes, and it all led me to where I was supposed to be. And now, I get to take my shot at doing what I love every day.

Q: I’m sure you faced some challenges to get where you are today. What was one of the biggest you’ve faced?

I think the biggest one for me is more of a personal one. I have diabetes, so over the years I’ve had to learn how to keep my health in check. For me, I prioritize eating right, keeping active, talking with my doctor regularly, and getting vaccinated to help prevent pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD. It took a lot to get here so I don’t want to be held back from doing what I love.

Q: Tell me more about pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD. Are they serious?

Absolutely. Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks. In more severe cases, it can put you in the hospital and even be life-threatening. The same bacteria that cause pneumococcal pneumonia can also cause invasive pneumococcal disease, or IPD, which includes blood infection and meningitis.

Q: That does sound serious. Who is at greater risk?

People like me who are 19 or older with certain underlying medical conditions like diabetes, asthma or COPD. In fact, people 19-64 living with diabetes are at over 5x higher risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and up to 4.8x higher risk for IPD, compared with healthy adults the same age. People 65 or older are also at increased risk, even if they’re healthy.

Q: What advice would you give to people about protecting themselves against pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD?

Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself. And vaccination is available all year round, so I encourage everyone to talk to their doctor or pharmacist to see if a pneumococcal vaccination is right for them. They can also visit VaxAssist.com to book an appointment online today.

Q: Thanks, Sherri. Is there anything else people should know about pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD?

People assume you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD during flu season or in the winter, but you can get it any time of year. And even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia before, your doctor may still recommend another vaccination for further protection. I love hosting my show and doing comedy, but I don’t joke around when it comes to pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD – and you shouldn’t either. Go talk to your doctor or pharmacist about getting vaccinated, so you can also keep taking your shot at whatever it is you love to do. (BPT)

Brought to you by Pfizer.

by -
0 634
Louis Jordan

By John Broven 

The Jazz Loft at Stony Brook will be presenting an illuminating doubleheader on Friday, Nov. 15.

The main event will be the “Louis Jordan Tribute” starting at 7 p.m. Danny Bacher, also a soprano saxophonist, will be singing many of Jordan’s hits of the 1940s including “Caledonia,” “Choo Choo Ch’Boogie,” “G.I. Jive” and “Let The Good Times Roll,” accompanied by an all-star group of musicians.

In effect, Jordan introduced the small swing combos which took over from the big bands, popularized the saxophone as a lead instrument and made music fun.

Initially, at 6 p.m., music author John Broven of East Setauket will give a presentation entitled “Who Is Louis Jordan?” Included will be a video outlining Jordan’s impactful history, featuring film clips and excerpts from the artist’s key recordings, prepared by Debbi Scott of Stony Brook.

The evening will bring into focus the influential music of Louis Jordan, an all-time American great and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Tickets to the 6 p.m. event are $10 per person. Tickets to the 7 p.m. event are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, and $15 children ages 6 and up at www.thejazzloft.org.

The Jazz Loft, which features a Louis Jordan exhibit in its museum, is located at 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook. For more information, call 631-751-1895.

by -
0 483
Michael Joseph Nagle

Prepared by the Nagle Family

Michael Joseph Nagle, 83, of Mystic, Connecticut, passed away peacefully Oct. 24, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. Born in Brooklyn, he lived a charmed life. He began his career running a CYO camp in Coney Island where he met his beloved wife Joan Young. They married in Brooklyn and soon moved to Stony Brook, New York, where Nagle taught in the Sachem School District for more than 30 years.

Recently, he relocated to Mystic where he celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary with Joan. His dedication to his wife, four children and 12 grandchildren was outstanding. Nagle’s warmth, generosity and Irish wit touched the lives of everyone around him. He enjoyed traveling, attending family sports events, officiating and sharing meals with friends.

He is survived by his wife Joan; his children Jeanne (husband Bill McNamara), Michael (wife Mary), Jim (wife Kelly) and Mark (wife Brett Clancy); and his 12 grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, at StoneRidge, 186 Jerry Browne Road, Mystic. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bread for the World at www.bread.org/donate. The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St., historic downtown Mystic, is assisting the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

by -
0 692
File photo by Raymond Janis

Turning the tide: Celebrating the guardians of our water

I would like to note a recent report from Save the Sound and highlight the work of some local heroes: George Hoffman and the volunteers of the Setauket Harbor Task Force. Their unwavering commitment to the health of our local waters has helped bend the curve and set our surface waters on a path toward improved health and water quality, as reflected in the latest report from Save the Sound. 

The water quality grade for Setauket Harbor, rising from a “C” in 2022 to a “B+” this year, speaks volumes about the positive impact of their work. The reduction in nitrogen levels by 50% over the last 30 years, thanks to improved stormwater systems and stricter regulations, shows what can be achieved with persistent advocacy for good policy and community engagement. Their leadership in educating boaters about using pump-out services to prevent waste from being dumped into the harbor has also been an essential factor in maintaining water cleanliness. The Setauket Harbor Task Force truly serves as guardians of the harbor, and we owe them a debt of gratitude.

As your councilmember, I am proud to work alongside groups like the Setauket Harbor Task Force, Coastal Steward Long Island and others, supporting initiatives that benefit our environment. One of the projects my office has been engaged with is expanding shellfish agriculture, especially the creation of oyster beds, which help improve water quality through natural filtration. Additionally, we are working to increase awareness and compliance of the use of pump-out boats, a crucial service that ensures boaters are able to dispose of waste responsibly. Cumulatively, and in partnership with groups like the Setauket Harbor Task Force and Coastal Steward, these efforts help contribute to cleaner, healthier harbors for all of us to benefit from.

The health of Port Jefferson and Setauket harbors is essential to the vibrancy of our community, and I look forward to continuing our partnership with local organizations and residents in this important work.

Jonathan Kornreich, 

Brookhaven Town Councilmember

Stony Brook

Unintended consequences: Say a prayer for our community’s small business owners

A number of letters have appeared in your paper in recent weeks about the Town of Brookhaven’s relatively new Commercial Redevelopment District classification for “abandoned, vacant and underutilized shopping centers.”

Essentially, the CRD designation allows for the demolition of existing shopping areas, and a subsequent high density build-out of multilevel apartments with ground level businesses. Some might call this a financial gift or windfall to some developers who claim their center is “underutilized.”

The unintended consequence of the town’s CRD code is that it incentivizes certain commercial property owners to neglect or mismanage their holdings in order to apply for the generous terms afforded by the new zoning. And the best way to create high vacancy rates? Simply jack up the cost of new leases and lease renewals to drive out small shop owners. It couldn’t happen here. Or could it?

   Herb Mones

  Stony Brook

Another Election Day gone, now for the cleanup

Election Day has come and gone. It reminds me of “The Outer Limits,” a 1960s television show. With the end of round-the-clock commercials by politicians, political parties, political action groups and pay-for-play special interest groups, we now return control of your television back to you until the next election cycle. No more telephone robocalls, text messages, candidates campaign mailings clogging mailboxes and weighing down our hard working postal employees. Finally, some peace and quiet! 

Candidates who claimed they cared about the environment can now do their part. Winners and losers should have their paid campaign staff and volunteers pick up all the thousands of campaign signs that litter our roads and highways to help clean up this waste. They could also use leftover campaign funds to hire homeless or unemployed people to collect this litter. Let some people sentenced by judges to perform community service be assigned this task. If candidates refuse to clean up after themselves, your local village, town or Suffolk County Public Works Division of Highway & Ground Maintenance should do the job and send candidates the bill.

Larry Penner

Great Neck

by -
0 844
Election results will be updated as they come in. Last results recorded on Nov. 6 at 10:30 a.m.
Congress

NY1

Nick LaLota (R): 55.7 percent with 215, 678 votes – Winner

John Avlon (D): 44.28 percent with 171,556 votes

NY2

Andrew Garbarino (R) : 59.6 percent – Winner

Rob Lubin (D): 40.4 percent

NY3

Thomas Suozzi (D): 48.7 percent – Winner

Mike LiPetri (R): 46.3 percent

New York State Senate

SD1

Anthony Palumbo (R): 53.65 percent – Winner

Sarah Anker (D): 46.32 percent

SD2

Mario Mattera (R): 97, 244 votes – Winner

Craig Herskowitz (D): 68,353 votes

New York State Assembly

AD2

Jodi Giglio (R): 64.9 percent with 45,280 votes – Winner

Tricia Chiaramonte (D): 35.1 percent with 24,474 votes

AD4

Ed Flood (R): 49.8  percent with 29,035 votes

Rebecca Kassay (D): 50. 2 percent with 29,246 votes

AD5

Doug Smith (R): 64.9% with 40,503 votes – Winner

Michael Reynolds (D): 35.1% with 21,893 votes

AD8

Mike Fitzpatrick (R): 66.4 percent with 48,797 votes – Winner

Steve Basileo (D): 33.6 percent with 24,716 votes

 

NYS Proposition 1: – Passed

Yes: 57.01 percent with 4,092,742 votes

No: 34.52 percent with 2,478,621 votes

 

NYS Proposition 2: – Passed

Yes: 71.91 percent with 478,717 votes

No: 28.42 percent with 190,159 votes

 

by -
0 391

Without a little prep work and routine maintenance, winter weather can wreak havoc on your home. Following a few simple steps can help you avoid frozen pipes, drafty rooms and slippery sidewalks.

1. Clear Gutters – Melting snow will have nowhere to go if gutters are clogged with leaves and debris.

2. Protect Pipes – Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks so warm air can surround pipes. Drain outside spigots before temperatures drop below freezing.

3. Improve Insulation – Cold air can seep in through openings around windows and doors. Install weather stripping and seal openings with caulk to insulate cracks and crevices.

4. Prevent Slips and Falls – Keep sidewalks and driveways clear of ice and snow. Sprinkle deicing salt on steps, sidewalks and driveways to prevent accidents.

5. Control the Temperature – Set the thermostat to at least 65 F during winter months. Consider installing an energy efficient or programmable thermostat. (eLivingtoday.com)

by -
0 406
Photo from StatePoint

With so many Medicare options available, selecting a plan can seem daunting. This year you may be wondering how news of Medicare drug price negotiations, economic uncertainties and other factors may impact your coverage in 2025.

Medicare is the government health insurance program for Americans 65 and older and others who qualify, providing hospital coverage (Part A) and physician visits (Part B) to beneficiaries. Additionally, there are a variety of options that coordinate with original Medicare, such as Medicare Supplement plans and Prescription Drug Plans, or replace original Medicare with Medicare Advantage (MA) plans combined with Prescription Drug Plans.

During this year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which takes place between Oct. 15-Dec. 7, 2024, here’s what Cigna Healthcare, which serves millions of Medicare customers nationwide, wants you to know:

1. Check for plan changes: If your current plan is working for you, you can likely keep it. However, it’s a good idea to review your plan every AEP, especially if you’ve experienced major life, health or financial changes. Any changes to your current plan will be outlined in your Medicare plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter, which you can expect to receive in September.

2. Research your coverage: There are a few key things to watch for when shopping for a plan. One of them is whether your favorite providers and specialists will be in-network. You should also review each plan’s formulary – that is, the list of drugs covered under the plan. You’ll want to find a plan that will cover your current medications and any you anticipate your doctor prescribing over the course of the year ahead. Finally, carefully consider your total spend for your prescription drug plan coverage (i.e., premiums plus pharmacy costs) since the maximum out-of-pocket costs for drugs you utilize will be capped at $2,000 in 2025.

3. Look for value: No matter what the economic outlook is, it’s wise to select a plan that provides great value. To that end, you may want to consider an MA plan, which offers quality and affordability. MA plans cover everything original Medicare does, plus more; most also include dental, vision and hearing benefits, prescription drug coverage, and other extras like over-the-counter drugs, transportation to doctor’s visits and pharmacies, healthy grocery purchases, and fitness services. MA plans are often available with $0 premiums, but you’ll also want to check on what your annual out-of-pocket costs could be based on your health status.

4. Understand your plan: Before enrolling in a particular plan, make sure you understand its ins and outs. Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24/7; TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. Or, visit the Medicare Plan Finder website at Medicare.gov/plan-compare. For local assistance, refer to the State Health Insurance Assistance Program at www.shiptacenter.org. You can also contact individual Medicare plans, including Cigna Healthcare at CignaMedicareInformation.com.

“AEP is your opportunity to assess your budget and your health needs and find an option that will work for you and your lifestyle in 2025,” says Ryan Kocher, chief growth officer for Cigna Healthcare Medicare. (StatePoint)

by -
0 614
John Zollo

By TBR staff

TBR News Media is endorsing Paul Damato (R, C) and John Zollo (R, C) for the two judges vacancies on the 4th District Court in the Town of Smithtown.

Both men’s dedication to the Smithtown community makes them an asset to a position that oversees a variety of cases, including but not limited to civil disputes, family matters, small claims and housing issues, all of which will directly affect their neighbors.

Their combined strong suits, which run the gamut from Zollo’s empathetic approach to justice, to Damato’s extensive experience in property evaluation, tax law and even serving as the Village of Port Jefferson assessor — will make for balanced and substantiated rulings.

Paul Damato. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Damato is a man who has chosen a field of law that requires great patience and know-how, and his knowledge of legal study is impressive. Additionally, Damato views the judiciary as requiring a “balance of technical precision, and fair application of law,” further emphasizing that his decisions will be grounded in his comprehensive study of primary and secondary legal sources. His comfortability with property-related cases sets him apart from his peers, as Damato truly derives pleasure from the practice of legal intricacies.

Zollo’s posts as assistant county attorney, Suffolk County, as well as town attorney for Smithtown, have prepared him for the procedural handling of local government issues, civil litigation and community centric cases. His understanding of legal ordinances has provided Zollo with the type of “inside” knowledge he needs to properly serve his town. He has viewed his various positions as a way to connect with his community, one person at a time, and Zollo’s strong standing within local circles allows him insight into the individualized needs of local residents. He prides himself on approaching each one of his cases with compassion and respect, feeling that his duty is that of a public servant — not an authoritarian. He shared that being a judge “is not just about knowing the law, it’s about understanding people, and what they need from the law.”

In addition to both men’s numerous attributes, it is important to note that Damato has extensive leadership experience. He served as president of an attorney appraiser and architectural engineer association. As an academic, he has taught legal education courses at the law schools of St. John’s University and Fordham University.

With Maria Scheuring’s decision not to come in, we have no choice but to exclude the Democratic nominee from our consideration. However, Scheuring does not lack in experience, and is a seasoned lawyer, with over two decades of experience. She is a trial and appellate attorney with experience in matrimonial, family and guardianship law, who started her career as an assistant district attorney in the Bronx. Additionally, Scheuring founded two law firms in which she has represented a broad range of clients, including corporations, musicians and major insurance companies. She later served as an associate attorney in NYC firms, focusing on plaintiff’s no-fault litigation, workers compensation, social security disability and high-stakes corporate defense work for municipalities and international companies. She ran a 2021 campaign for Town of Smithtown supervisor, losing to Ed Wehrheim (R),

Consequently, we feel that John Zollo and Paul Damato are the best judges choices for the 4th District. They are intelligent, personable and, most importantly, veterans in the legal field. They have what it takes to serve their district with dignity and admiration for not only judicial, but also the Smithtown community.

Prev1...181920...483Next Page 19 of 483
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©