A Column Promoting a More Earth-Friendly Lifestyle
By John L. Turner
John Turner
Buying in bulk can not only save you money but often generates less waste. For example, a 64-ounce container of detergent contains less plastic than two 32-ounce containers and much less than four 16-ounce containers. Plus, these smaller containers are sometimes bundled in plastic wrap while the largest container never is.
The same is true for dishwashing fluid and general house cleaners. Similarly, items that are wrapped like paper towels use much more wrapping for three individual rolls than one 3-pack; the same is true for toilet paper.
The same principle of “more is less” holds true with many food items too. If you start paying attention to bulk purchases you’ll quickly realize that such a strategy is good for both the planet and your wallet. Indeed, when it comes to bulk purchases “more is less.”
A resident of Setauket, author John L. Turner is conservation chair of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, author of “Exploring the Other Island: A Seasonal Nature Guide to Long Island” and president of Alula Birding & Natural History Tours.
The US Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board have selected Stony Brook University Professor Kenneth Lanzetta, PhD, in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, as a Fulbright US Scholar for 2024-2025. Professor Lanzetta will spend the next academic year in Chile, where he will collaborate with the Astronomy Department at the University of Concepción (UdeC) and deploy a new telescope in the Atacama Astronomical Park.
The “Condor Array Telescope Atacama” – or Condor Atacama – is an expanded version of Professor Lanzetta’s “Condor Array Telescope,” which was deployed in New Mexico three years ago and has since detected several galactic and extragalactic phenomena too faint for other telescopes to pick up on. His new, enhanced version will take advantage of the Atacama Desert’s extreme altitude, clear weather conditions, and dark environment, which make it highly suited to astronomical observation. According to Lanzetta, Condor Atacama could potentially become the world’s most sensitive astronomical imaging telescope.
“I am delighted by the selection of Professor Lanzetta as a Fulbright US Scholar for 2024-2025. This recognized the potential of the ‘Condor Array Telescope’ that is based on a possibly paradigm shifting astronomical telescope technology,” said Chang Kee Jung, Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. “While almost all modern astronomical research telescopes use reflecting optics and charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors, Condor uses refracting optics, and newer and faster complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensors, which allow it to see things that are missed by conventional telescopes. Deploying Condor in Atacama, a premier site for telescopes, opens up a greater opportunity for discoveries. I am looking forward to receiving exciting news that Professor Lanzetta will deliver from Chile.”
UdeC Professor Rodrigo Andrés Reeves Díaz, PhD, a local expert with experience deploying astronomical instrumentation in the Atacama Desert, will provide guidance on the project and serve as Professor Lanzetta’s host at the university. In exchange, Lanzetta will present a series of seminars to Astronomy Department faculty and graduate students, as well as a public seminar on the department’s behalf.
This project looks to fulfill the Fulbright mission of promoting international collaboration by fostering a partnership between Stony Brook and UdeC. Astronomical communities across the US and Chile will benefit from the deployment and operation of Condor Atacama, and the telescope’s unique imaging capabilities are poised to leave a legacy on the field of astronomy at large.
“I am very much looking forward to spending the next academic year in Chile on a Fulbright Scholar award,” said Professor Lanzetta. “Condor Atacama is a very exciting project, and this visit will allow me to work on deploying the telescope to the Atacama Astronomical Park, which is among the very best astronomical sites in the world. And I am especially looking forward to meeting new people and forming new friendships among my new colleagues at the University of Concepción.”
Professor Lanzetta has been part of Stony Brook’s Department of Physics and Astronomy for more than 30 years. Previously, he was a Hubble Fellow in the Center for Astrophysics and Space Sciences at the University of California, San Diego. He has a BA in Physics from the University of Pennsylvania and a PhD in Physics from the University of Pittsburgh. He completed his postdoctoral research at the Institute of Astronomy of the University of Cambridge.
Lanzetta is among roughly 800 faculty members, researchers, administrators and established professionals selected for the 2024-2025 Fulbright US Scholar Program. Also offering opportunities abroad for students and recent graduates, Fulbright is the flagship international academic exchange program sponsored by the United States government. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the Fulbright Program, which operates in more than 160 countries annually.
Want to be part of the action at this year’s fairs and festivals? Do you have unique merchandise, crafts, yard sale items or food and beverages to sell? Here are a list of vendors wanted for upcoming community events on the North Shore. The list will be updated weekly.
◆ Polish American Independent Club, 35 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station has a few vendor spots available for its Spring Craft & Vendor Fair on April 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $50 inside vendors includes 8′ table and chair; $35 outside vendors with 10′ by 10′ provided. 516-383-3456
◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road Setauket is now accepting vendors for the 10th annual Three Village Farmers & Artisans Market which will be held from May 3 to Oct. 25 (May to August from 3 to 7 p.m., September to October from 3 to 6 p.m. Fee is $650 for full season (25 weeks), $450 half season (12 weeks), $50 pop up per week, food trucks $50 per week. For an application, visit www.tvhs.org
◆ Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will hold a Tag and Bake Sale on May 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reserve a table to sell your gently used, no longer needed items or your own handmade hobby items. Vendor fee is $30; must provide own table. Email [email protected].
◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its annual Community Wide Yard Sale on May 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.Each 10 x 10 space is up for grabs at $50, $35 members. Reserve your spot now at www.tvhs.org/yardsale. 631-751-3730
◆ Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead seeks vendors for its annual Fleece & Fiber Festival on May 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Rain date is May 19). $175 for 10 X 10’ outdoor space. Artisans sharing handmade and authentic works for sale may apply at www.hallockville.org by April 1. 631-298-5292.
◆ Art League of Long Island, 107 E. Deer Park Road, Dix Hills is seeking vendors featuring original art for its 54th annual juried Art in the Parking Lot on June 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rain date June 9. Fee is $125 members, $150 non-members. Deadline to apply is May 1. www.artleagueli.org
◆ Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown seeks vendors of handmade and nature-based items, plus nonprofits for its annual Butterfly and Bird Festival on June 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fee is $75 for a 10′ by 10′ space. For an application, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344
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.”
In the ongoing battle against impaired driving, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With potent synthetic drugs flooding into our communities, state legislators are feeling the pressure to modernize existing laws and ensure that those who choose to drive under the influence face appropriate consequences.
One of the primary concerns among lawmakers is the outdated nature of the current list of illegal drugs outlined in public health law. Democratic Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli pointed out the glaring flaw, stating that the list can’t keep pace with the rapid influx of new drugs hitting the streets. And he’s not alone in his sentiment; Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick echoed Magnarelli’s concerns, emphasizing the ease with which drug manufacturers can skirt legislation by altering chemical compositions overnight.
This legislative lag poses a significant challenge for law enforcement, making it increasingly difficult to prosecute impaired drivers effectively. As Magnarelli aptly said, “You can’t keep up with it.” This sentiment underscores what our legislature sees as an urgent need for updated legislation that can adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of drug abuse and impairment.
Thus, Assemblymen Magnarelli’s proposed bill seeks to overhaul New York State’s vehicle and traffic law. At its core lies a crucial revision: broadening the definition of “drug” to encompass any substance or combination thereof that impairs physical or mental abilities. This change is essential in recognizing the diverse array of substances capable of impairing drivers, ensuring that the law remains relevant and effective in safeguarding public safety.
However, not everyone is on board with Magnarelli’s proposal. Critics argue that the bill’s reliance on subjective judgment in diagnosing impairment may pose challenges. Yet, Magnarelli remains resolute in his conviction: “Don’t get behind the wheel.” For him, the message is crystal clear — driving while impaired is not worth the risk.
As the bill navigates through the legislative process, its fate hangs in the balance. With a version also under consideration in the Senate, the stage is set for a pivotal debate on how New York State can best address the issue of impaired driving. Be assured, however, that there has never been a time when it was more advisable for anyone charged with a drug and/or drinking-related offense to obtain experienced counsel to represent them in the courts of New York State.
A. Craig Purcell, Esq. is a partner at the law firm of Glynn Mercep Purcell and Morrison LLP in Setauket and is a former President of the Suffolk County Bar Association and Vice President of the New York State Bar Association.
Try eating a more plant-based, whole foods diet. METRO photo
Cardiac biomarkers can help you monitor your progress
By David Dunaief, M.D.
Dr. David Dunaief
Heart disease is on the decline in the U.S. Several factors have influenced this, including better awareness, improved medicines, earlier treatment of risk factors and lifestyle modifications (1). Still, we can do better. Heart disease still underpins one in four deaths, and it is preventable.
What are the baseline risks for heart disease?
Significant risk factors for heart disease include high cholesterol, high blood pressure and smoking. In addition, diabetes, excess weight and excessive alcohol intake increase your risks. Unfortunately, both obesity and diabetes rates are increasing. For patients with type 2 diabetes, 70 percent die of cardiovascular causes (2).
Inactivity and the standard American diet, which is rich in saturated fat and calories, also contribute to atherosclerosis, or fatty streaks in the arteries, the underlying culprit in heart disease risk (3).
A less-discussed risk factor is a resting heart rate greater than 80 beats per minute (bpm). A normal resting heart rate is typically between 60 and 100 bpm. If your resting heart rate is in the high-normal range, your risk increases.
In one study, healthy men and women had 18 and 10 percent increased risks of dying from a heart attack, respectively, for every increase of 10 bpm over 80 (4). The good news is that you can reduce your risks.
Does medication lower heart disease risk?
Cholesterol and blood pressure medications have been credited to some extent with reducing the risk of heart disease. Unfortunately, according to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data, only 43.7 percent of those with hypertension have it controlled (5). While the projected reasons are complex, a significant issue among those with diagnosed hypertension is their failure to consistently take their prescribed medications.
Statins have played a key role in primary prevention, as well. They lower lipid levels, including total cholesterol and LDL (“bad” cholesterol). They also lower inflammation levels that contribute to cardiovascular disease risk. The JUPITER trial showed a 55 percent combined reduction in heart disease, stroke and mortality from cardiovascular disease in healthy patients — those with a slightly elevated level of inflammation and normal cholesterol profile — with statins.
The downside of statins is their side effects. Statins have been shown to increase the risk of diabetes in intensive dosing, when compared to moderate dosing (6).
Unfortunately, another side effect of statins is myopathy (muscle pain). I have a number of patients who suffered from statin muscle pain and cramps shift their focus to diet and exercise to get off their prescriptions. Lifestyle modification is a powerful ally.
Do lifestyle changes really reduceheart disease risk?
The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, a prospective (forward-looking) study, investigated 501 healthy men and their risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The authors concluded that those who consumed five servings or more of fruits and vegetables daily with <12 percent saturated fat had a 76 percent reduction in their risk of dying from heart disease compared to those who did not (7). The authors theorized that eating more fruits and vegetables helped to displace saturated fats from the diet. These results are impressive and, to achieve them, they only required modest dietary changes.
The Nurses’ Health Study shows that these results are also seen in women, with lifestyle modification reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). Many times, this is the first manifestation of heart disease in women. The authors looked at four parameters of lifestyle modification, including a Mediterranean-type diet, exercise, smoking and body mass index. The decrease in SCD was dose-dependent, meaning the more parameters adopted, the greater the risk reduction. SCD risk was reduced up to 92 percent when all four parameters were followed (8). Thus, it is possible to almost eliminate the risk of SCD for women with lifestyle modifications.
How can you monitor your progress in lowering heart disease risk?
To monitor your progress, cardiac biomarkers, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, and inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein can tell us a lot.
In a cohort study of high-risk participants and those with heart disease, patients began extensive lifestyle modifications: a plant-based, whole foods diet accompanied by exercise and stress management (9). The results showed improvements in biomarkers, as well as in cognitive function and overall quality of life. Most exciting is that results occurred over a very short period to time — three months from the start of the trial. Many of my patients have experienced similar results.
Ideally, if a patient needs medications to treat risk factors for heart disease, it should be for the short term. For some patients, it makes sense to use medication and lifestyle changes together; for others, lifestyle modifications may be sufficient, provided the patient takes an active role.
Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.
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.
The cast of 'Head Over Heels'. Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
A scene from 'Head Over Heels'. Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
A scene from 'Head Over Heels'. Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
By Julianne Mosher
Yes, heaven is definitely a place on earth, and it’s right here at Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman Campus in Selden.
Directed by Marie Danvers, Head Over Heels debuted on Broadway in 2018 and is adapted from Sir Philip Sidney’s The Countess of Pembroke’s Arcadia written in the 16th century. While still performed in its Shakespearian-era dialect, what’s most fun is the incorporation of music of The Go-Go’s.
The story takes place in the kingdom of Arcadia. King Basilius (Aiden Gomez) and his wife Queen Gynecia (Londyn Williams) have two daughters — Phioclea (Sophia Del Carmen) and Pamela (Kayla Pisano) — and we learn that Phioclea is in love with her childhood friend Musidorus (Jaiden Molina), while Pamela, the prettiest in the land, has dozens of suitors but is secretly in love with her servant, Mopsa (Izzy Mangiaracina), the daughter of Dametas (Gabriel Patrascu).
Soon after Pamela dismisses yet another potential husband, the kingdom’s new oracle, Pythio (Jayden Brown), sends a message that Arcadia might be in trouble and gives them four prophecies, saying that Arcadia needs to change.
Pythio, who is nonbinary, explains that when each of the prophecies are fulfilled, four flags will fall. If all four happen (which it does) then Arcadia will fall.
It sounds like a lot — and it is. Each character has its own individual story within the major plotline. But the students at SCCC make it easy to understand — even if it’s spoken in old English — and we have to appreciate the musical aspect of it all… especially since the music is from the late 1980s.
With favorites from the Go-Go’s like “We Got the Beat,” “Heaven is a Place on Earth,” “Mad About You,” and “Our Lips are Sealed,” you’ll be singing and dancing along as each song is seamlessly incorporated into the play.
That being said, the band is live and so is the singing of the students. Brown’s Pythio, while not in every scene, shines every time they are on stage, while Phioclea’s Del Carmen has a voice made for Broadway. These two students have bright futures ahead when it comes to musical theater.
Molina’s Musidorus is great — especially since he’s able to gender bend throughout the show (yes, he pretends to be a woman to meet with Phioclea who he’s in love with). Williams, Pisano, Patrascu, Mangiaracina and Gomez perform their roles with such ease, as does the ensemble including Angie Barrientos, Alani Etheridge, Andy Laloudakis, Talia Mazza, Joseph Salerno and Amelia Wells. Quite frankly, you’ll be surprised you’re watching community college students perform these numbers.
The set and costume design also add an extra highlight to the show. The set, while minimal, features two large guitars crossed at the neck with a crown shining above. The stage floor is a rotating record that helps during the chase scenes. The costumes are colorful and a mix of punk, pretty, Elizabethan and 1980s party all in one.
So, do you have the beat? If you don’t, head to Suffolk’s Shea Theatre and you’ll be sure to say “I’m mad about you” to the cast and crew of Head Over Heels.
The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Head Over Heels in the Shea Theater, Islip Arts Building SCCC Ammerman campus, 533 College Road, Selden on April 18, 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m. and April 21 at 2 p.m. General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID are offered one free ticket. To order, call the box office at 631-451-4163.
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.
These three magnificent kitties are all approaching their first birthday and anniversary at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. These stunning fur babies were overlooked as their littermates were adopted last year. The time has come for each one of them to find the perfect home while they are still kittens.
Disco
Disco; a ten month old domestic short hair boy, adorning a stunning tabby and white coat, will boogie his way right into your heart like a Studio 54 classic hit. His big green gemstone eyes are absolutely captivating. Disco was found as a baby, together with his sister in a feral colony last fall. He will not hesitate to introduce himself at first. It may require a little patience and understanding before he lets you give him a good petting. However, once Disco warms up to you, his playfulness and entertainment value are off the charts! Disco would be best suited in a quiet home with other cats, possibly dogs but not young children.
Beignet (in front)
Beignet is a bewitching beauty that will surely win any kitten lover over! This short haired domestic female was found in a large colony of other kittens and cats and is about to turn one years old in May. Her litter was all very shy and timid upon rescue. Beautiful Beignet has slowly learned to trust people, but remains lady-like and reserved. A little time and patience for her to warm up to new faces is all it takes to receive endless affection and purrs. Beignet is playful, gets along well with other cats and would do best in a quiet home with older children and possibly dogs.
Sally
Sally is simply gorgeous! This domestic short-hair gal has unique tortoise shell coloring and is about to reach her first birthday in May. Sally and her brother were rescued as part of our TNR program (Trap Neuter Return). This little lady is quite the observer, preferring to take it all in rather than interact with people. A lot of love, patience and understanding will go a long way with this sweet fur baby. Sally gets along very nicely with other cats. She would be best suited in a quiet home, other cats, possibly with dogs, but no young children.
If you are interested in meeting Disco, Sally or Beignet please fill out an application to schedule time to properly interact with your prospective soul mate in a domestic setting.
The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.
If you have no other pets or young children at home, and are looking for a way to serve your community, please consider signing up to be a foster. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens, and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for extended periods of time.
In the ongoing battle against impaired driving, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With potent synthetic drugs flooding into our communities, state legislators are feeling the pressure to modernize existing laws and ensure that those who choose to drive under the influence face appropriate consequences.
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