CLOSE
Business

by -
0 3425
Dr. James Paci and Dr. Robert Trasolini pose with orthopedic implants. Photo from Northwell Health
The sports medicine team at Huntington Hospital’s orthopedics department has introduced two biologically advanced implant procedures designed to improve outcomes for patients with knee injuries and early joint degeneration.

Orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Robert Trasolini, DO, recently performed the hospital’s first BEAR® (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration) Implant procedure on an 18-year-old male athlete, offering a promising new alternative to traditional ACL reconstruction. The BEAR implant is a collagen-based device that, when combined with the patient’s blood, forms a collagen matrix that protects and supports the healing ligament. It contains biological signals that stimulate the ACL to heal, preserving the body’s own tissue rather than replacing it with a graft.

“This is a tremendous advancement for younger, active patients,” said Dr. Trasolini. “The BEAR implant not only restores stability to the knee but does so in a way that supports the body’s natural healing process, potentially reducing recovery time and improving long-term joint health.”

In a separate milestone, James Paci, MD, director of orthopedic surgery and sports medicine for Suffolk County at The Orlin & Cohen Orthopedic Group at Northwell, performed the hospital’s first CartiHeal Agili-C™ implant procedure on a 52-year-old female patient. The coral-based implant acts as a biological scaffold for patients with cartilage lesions who have not yet reached the stage requiring a total knee replacement.

The implant is designed to buy patients 10 to 15 years of pain relief and function before more invasive surgery might be necessary. Made from natural coral, the implant encourages bone marrow elements to migrate into the lesion, promoting the regrowth of cartilage over 6 to 9 months.

“This technology fills a significant gap in our treatment options,” said Dr. Paci. “For the right patient, typically someone too young or active for a knee replacement but dealing with painful cartilage defects, the Agili-C implant offers a bridge that restores function and improves quality of life.”

“These breakthrough procedures reflect Huntington Hospital’s ongoing commitment to delivering advanced, evidence-based orthopedic care to our community,” said Adam Bitterman, DO, chairman of orthopedic surgery at Huntington Hospital. “Innovative treatments like these not only enhance recovery outcomes but also support the long-term joint health and quality of life for our patients.”

by -
0 736
Mitch Pally

Discover Long Island (DLI) has appointed current Board Chair Mitch Pally as Interim President & CEO, following the recent announcement that longtime President & CEO Kristen Reynolds’ departure to take the lead of Choose Chicago, according to a press release.

“With Pally at the helm, the organization is confidently moving forward, maintaining its strong momentum and unwavering dedication to promoting Suffolk County Long Island as a premier travel destination. A well-respected figure in the region with decades of leadership experience, Pally brings a deep understanding of the destination’s economic, political, and tourism ecosystem, as well as a steadfast commitment to ensuring a seamless transition at Discover Long Island,” read the release.

“Long Island’s tourism industry has never been stronger, and I’m honored to step into this interim role to help keep the incredible momentum going,” said Pally. “Kristen built a world-class organization over the past decade, and I’m excited to continue working with this outstanding team to ensure 2025 continues to be a landmark year for tourism, economic growth, and community pride within Suffolk County and the greater Long Island region.”

“As a longtime board member and tourism advocate, I’ve seen firsthand the positive trajectory that Discover Long Island has cultivated over the years,” said Hilton Long Island General Manager and DLI Board Treasurer, Gus Montesantos. “Even with this leadership change, our collective momentum is undeniable and the future for Long Island’s visitor economy is brighter than ever.”

Pally is no stranger to Long Island tourism and economic development. He is the former Chief Executive Officer of the Long Island Builders Institute, from 2010 to 2022, and current chair of the Midway Crossing Local Development Corporation, chair of the Long Island MacArthur Airport Advisory Board, co-chair of the Long Island Business Development Council, and a member of the Town of Brookhaven Industrial Development Corp. Pally has also served as a member of the board of commissioners of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority for 14 years and Vice President of the Long Island Association from 1986 to 2009.

Since 2012, he has also been a member of the Board of Directors of AAA Northeast, one of the four largest auto clubs in the country. Additionally, Pally has served as a partner in Weber Law Group from 2005 to 2010. He also served in the New York State Legislature from 1975 to 1985, including a position as Chief Counsel of the NYS Senate Transportation Committee. Pally has been a member of the board of Discover Long Island for the past eight years and previously served on the board of its previous tourism organization, the Long Island Convention + Visitors Bureau and Sports Commission for 12 years.

Discover Long Island’s Chief Operating Officer, Sharon Wyman, will continue to provide operational leadership and strategic support during the transition, alongside the rest of the DiscoverLong Island Board of Directors.

“Our team is energized and fully aligned in our mission,” said Wyman. “With Mitch’s trusted leadership and our dedicated staff, we won’t be skipping a beat. Long Island’s future is bright, and we’re ready to build on the strong foundation Kristen helped establish.”

“Change in leadership is a natural part of any thriving organization,” said HIA-LI President & CEO and DLI Board Member, Terri Alessi-Miceli. “What sets Discover Long Island apart here is the unity, passion, and professionalism of its team and board. The organization’s innovative approach and strong partnerships have always set the standard for destination marketing, and under Mitch’s interim leadership, I have every confidence DLI will only continue to grow stronger and more influential.”

Discover Long Island’s Board of Directors will soon initiate a formal search for a new full-time President & CEO. In the meantime, the organization remains laser-focused on its mission to drive year-round tourism, support local businesses, and celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of Suffolk County’s communities.

“Kristen Reynolds had taken Discover Long Island to new heights and amplified its impact exponentially, and Mitch Pally’s extensive experience in economic development will serve the organization well as we search for a new leader to build upon the foundation Kristen established,” said Long Island Association President & CEO and DLI Board Member, Matt Cohen.

“Adventureland has proudly partnered with Discover Long Island for many years, and we’ve never been more confident in the organization’s future,” said Steve Gentile, President of Adventureland. “The DLI team’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and community makes us proud to stand alongside them during this next phase.”

To stay up to date on Discover Long Island’s efforts, visit discoverlongisland.com.

by -
0 872
Pictured at the Suffolk County Legislature are Smithtown Jewelry Shoppe owner Lenny Piskorz and Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office

In 2023, the Suffolk County Legislature designated May as “Small Business Month” to recognize the important contributions that small businesses provide to the communities where they are located and to the economy. Each legislator selects a small business, with less than 25 employees, from their legislative district.

At the May 6 General Meeting of the Legislature, each legislator recognized their respective honoree. The St. James Jewelry Shoppe on Lake Avenue in St. James was chosen by Legislator Trotta. Current owner Lenny Piskorz started working in the jewelry business while in high school and took over this store in 2008. “Lenny and his staff provide exceptional service to meet the needs of their customers, and his store is an asset for the community,” said Legislator Rob Trotta.

St. James Jewelry Shoppe has been a full-service jewelry store for over 40 years. The shop offers a wide variety of gold, silver and platinum jewelry and specializes in customed jewelry and repair work, including eyeglasses, all of which are done on the premises. Lenny’s artistic talents and craftsmanship shine when transforming a customer’s ideas fromdrawings, pictures or concepts into a one-of-a kind piece of jewelry.

 

by -
0 1494
Edwin Rivera with his family and Legislator Sanin. Photo courtesy Legislator Rebecca Sanin’s office

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin (D-Huntington) recently recognized Edwin Rivera, Co-Founder and CEO of New York Fitness and Boxing (NYFB), for his transformative contributions to health, wellness, and inclusion in the Huntington community. 

For over 15 years, Rivera has led NYFB with a powerful mission: to make fitness accessible and meaningful for individuals of all ages and abilities. NYFB, founded on the principle that “anyone can box,” offers cardio-boxing classes designed to meet diverse needs while fostering a culture of encouragement and empowerment. 

Among its most impactful initiatives is The Box Fitness Experience—a groundbreaking boxing and fitness program specifically designed for individuals with special needs. Co-founded by Rivera’s daughter, Alexia, who has Down syndrome, the program was inspired by her journey and is a testament to the Rivera family’s commitment to inclusion. 

NYFB also offers specialized programming for individuals battling Parkinson’s disease and provides free fitness classes to those undergoing cancer treatment, underscoring the gym’s deep commitment to wellness for all. 

“Edwin Rivera is not only a dynamic entrepreneur, but a compassionate leader who has made it his mission to lift others up through fitness, innovation and inclusion,” said Legislator Sanin. 

“Thanks to his vision, NYFB has become a beacon of strength and community in Suffolk County—and a place where every individual is welcomed, valued and empowered.” 

Beyond his work at NYFB, Rivera is co-inventor of the Aqua Training Bag, a water-based heavy bag used worldwide by professional fighters and fitness enthusiasts. Developed with business partner William Ryder, the Aqua Bag offers a low-impact, high-performance workout and has become a global innovation in the fitness industry. 

Rivera also owns Harbor Paint, a commercial painting company based in Huntington Station, and previously worked as a regulatory compliance officer on Wall Street. Raised in Brooklyn, Rivera’s passion for boxing began in his youth and has since evolved into a lifelong dedication to community-building through sport and entrepreneurship. 

Legislator Sanin presented Rivera with a County proclamation in recognition of his exceptional leadership, joined by community members and Rivera’s family, including his wife, Alexandria, and daughter, Alexia. 

by -
0 1144
Megan E. Sheehan

Brightview Senior Living, a Baltimore-based provider in senior living with almost 50 communities along the East Coast, has announced Megan E. Sheehan as Brightview Port Jefferson’s new Executive Director. The facility is located at 1175 Route 112 in Port Jefferson Station.

Sheehan is a healthcare professional with more than a decade of experience in senior healthcare and housing, with a focus on hospitality, resident satisfaction and family engagement. She most recently served as the Executive Director of Marian Woods, Inc. Adult Care Facility, where she oversaw administration and organizational planning of a fifty-bed New York State licensed Adult Care Facility for religious sisters.

“We are thrilled to welcome Megan to the Brightview Port Jefferson team,” said Toni Gozzo, Regional Director of Operations at Brightview Senior Living. “Her deep experience in senior healthcare, commitment to hospitality and passion for creating meaningful experiences make her a perfect fit. Brightview prides itself on vibrant living and exceptional care, and we’re confident Megan’s skills and background will further elevate that mission for our residents, families, and our associates in the greater New York region.”

Sheehan earned a Bachelor of Arts in education from Manhattan College and an Associate of Applied Science in occupational therapy assisting from SUNY Rockland.

“I am thrilled to have joined the Brightview Port Jefferson family. After working for more than 10 years in healthcare, this is more than a job to me – it’s my calling,” said Sheehan. “I thrive working in an environment where no two days are the same and I can make a meaningful difference while growing personally and professionally. It’s truly an honor to build genuine connections with residents and their loved ones, and learn from their stories and wisdom. My goal is to help make this chapter of their lives as joyful and fulfilling as possible.”

For more information about Brightview and its communities, visit BrightviewSeniorLiving.com.  

 

by -
0 741
Tony Saunders, on left, has been designated a Certified Home Watch Professional by the National Home Watch Association

Three Village Home Watch has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association for the third year. The NHWA was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for Home Watch and absentee homeowner services throughout the United States and Canada (www.nationalhomewatchassociation.org).

Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues, which means that it is a service that “keeps an eye on things” at your vacation or primary home while you are not in residence. All principals of NHWA Accredited Member companies are background-checked, insured, and bonded.

After decades of success in the electronic security monitoring industry, Tony Saunders wanted to spend more time in the field and less time behind a desk. This led him to launch Three Village Home Watch, which provides Home Watch and concierge services to busy professionals, frequent travelers, and homeowners with multiple residences, including “snowbirds” who travel to their residences in the South each winter. The company is bonded and insured specifically for Home Watch services.

Saunders graduated from the NHWA’s Home Watch Boot Camp and has earned the designation of Certified Home Watch Professional (CHWP), placing him among the industry’s elite Home Watch providers. The CHWP designation and Boot Camp training exemplify Tony’s commitment to Home Watch excellence.

Three Village Home Watch serves the Three Village area on Suffolk County’s North Shore, including Belle Terre, Crane Neck, East Setauket, Head of the Harbor, Nissequogue, Old Field, Old Field South, Poquot, Port Jefferson, Port Jefferson Station, Setauket, South Setauket, St. James, Stony Brook, Stony Brook Shores, Strongs Neck, and Terryville. For more information, call 631-689-5683 or at [email protected]. Learn more from his website, at https://threevillagehomewatch.com.

by -
0 1225
Nantucket's owner Richard Gertz cuts the ribbon surrounded by Port Jefferson Chamber partners. Photo courtesy of PJCC

The Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce celebrated the new and expansive renovations of their Chamber partner Nantuckets with owner Richard Gertz at a ribbon cutting on May 1.

Located at 9 Traders Cove in Port Jefferson Village, the makeover includes extensive transformations, new outdoor siding, deck, furnishings and logo mural. Inside the restaurant was not forgotten as well, with a new bar, fireplace, tables and chairs as well as sound proofing the dining room so patrons may have a more serene dining experience.

The restauraunt is open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. For  more information, call 631-509-4848 or visit nantucketsportjefferson.com.

by -
0 1047
Ribbon cutting for Limitless Integrative Wellness. Photo from PJCC

OFFERING HOLISTIC SUPPORT

The Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce welcomed new Chamber partner Kristina Scaglione (holding scissors) of Limitless Integrative Wellness, 100 Mariner’s Way, Port Jefferson at a ribbon cutting on April 24. The event was attended by Mayor Lauren Sheprow (holding certificate), PJCC President Steve Munoz (far left), friends and staff. For more information, call 631-818-1528 or visit limitlessintegrativewellness.com.

 

by -
0 883
1 of 3
Nicolock Design Studio in Huntington Station
Nicolock Design Studio in Huntington Station
Nicolock Design Studio in Huntington Station

Nicolock, a leading manufacturer of premium hardscape solutions, has announced the opening of its new Design Studio at 800 East Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station in May with more locations planned for Seaford and Holbrook scheduled to open in June 2025 as well as three more in the fall.

According to a press release, these exclusive destinations are  designed to empower homeowners to transform their outdoor living visions into realities, guiding them from initial concept to completion. More than just showrooms, Nicolock Design Studios offers homeowners the chance to fully visualize how Nicolock’s extensive range of products will look installed, fostering confidence and facilitating informed decision- making.

“We understand that creating the perfect outdoor space is a significant investment and a deeply personal endeavor,” said Nino Nicolia, Vice President. “Our new Design Studios are designed to enhance the process, offering a hands-on, personalized experience that ensures our customers are delighted with their choices every step of the way. They will leave our showroom with a computer-generated design including a comprehensive list of products and a directed to an authorized Nicolock dealer.”

The Nicolock Design Studios offers several key features including:

  • Expansive Showroom: Featuring Nicolock’s top-selling products and color blends in realistic, installed settings. This allows customers to truly see, touch, and experience the quality and beauty of Nicolock’s offerings, eliminating any ambiguity.
  • Direct Comparison: Multiple variations of pavers, retaining walls, and other hardscape elements are displayed side-by-side, enabling easy and direct comparison to choose the best options for individual projects.
  • In-House On-Staff Designer: Homeowners will have access to Nicolock’s expert in-house designers, providing personalized consultations and design advice to bring their unique visions to life.
  • Personalized White Glove Concierge Service: From the moment they step into a Design Studio, customers will receive dedicated, white-glove service, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout their project journey.
  • Comprehensive Product Showcase: Explore a wide array of Nicolock products, including pavers for patios, driveways, and walkways, as well as retaining walls, pool decks, fire pits, fireplaces, and materials for outdoor kitchens and grills.

Headquartered in Lindenhurst, Nicolock has been a family-owned-and-operated hardscape manufacturer for over 65 years. The company currently has 8 manufacturing facilities and is growing: Long Island, New Jersey, Maryland, Connecticut and their newest location, North Carolina. For more information, visit www.nicolock.com.

 

 

by -
0 681
1 of 4
From left, moderator Jennifer B. Cona with panelist group: Randy Goldbaum; Esther Fortunoff-Greene; Kathy Munsch; Dr. Pilar Stevens-Haynes, Director of Echocardiography, Mount Sinai South Nassau; Paul Fleishman.
The panel on stage. Jennifer B. Cona moderates at right.
From left, Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Esq., Senior Partner, Cona Elder Law; Evelyn Gellar, Managing Director, Forest Hills Financial Group; and Jennifer B. Cona, Founder and Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law.
Evelyn Gellar, Managing Director, Forest Hills Financial Group and Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Esq., Senior Partner, Cona Elder Law.

More than 250 people on the verge of retirement attended the 9th Annual Cona Elder Law Caregiver Conference, “Rewiring & Retiring Well on Long Island: The Secret Ingredients No One Talks About” at the Hilton Long Island in Melville on Wednesday, May 7, where they heard from a panel of well-known Long Islanders who shared their personal stories of life after a lifetime of work.

The focus of the evening was a discussion around how to navigate a post-career life, including the financial and emotional impact of not going to work five days a week anymore. Experts say people not only need to plan financially but also emotionally to avoid being disappointed or depressed with a downshift in their daily routines.

“We’re not wired that way, we’re still going, we’re vibrant people who have a lot of life left, we still have things we want to do. So you’re really planning for a shift in life,” said Jennifer Cona, Founder and Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law. “So having that conversation and making that plan is important to having a successful retirement, or rewirement.”

The main event, a panel discussion, talked about strategies for a successful retirement with five Long Islanders who have done it: Paul Fleishman, Newsday, Vice President of Public Affairs (Retired); Esther Fortunoff-Greene, Owner, Fortunoff, Rewired to EFG Designs; Kathy Munsch, American Heart Association, Regional Vice President (Retired); and Randy Goldbaum, Partner, Egress Pros, Rewired to Cannabis and Hemp Entrepreneur.

“I chose to pivot in a way that I can use my sources from all over the world and follow my passion,” said Esther Fortunoff-Greene, former owner of Fortunoff Department Stores. “I rewired rather than retired because I love work, and I love the people with whom I created working relationships for all those years. Life is short and we need to do what matters.”

“I had to go through a process that took me a couple years to get to the point where I was looking forward to being retired,” said Paul Fleishman, who retired from a multi-decade career at Newsday. “I had to get over how I was going to get over missing going to work every day and all the fulfillment and all of the satisfaction and all the reward. So that was a process.”

The evening also featured a presentation from Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Esq., Senior Partner, Cona Elder Law, and Evelyn Gellar, Managing Director, Forest Hills Financial Group, titled “Managing Retirement Income & Risk During Volatile Markets.”

Additionally, more than 40 elder care industry sponsors and exhibitors shared resources on topics including home care, assisted living, reverse mortgages, long-term care insurance, and caregiver support services.

About Cona Elder Law

Cona Elder Law concentrates in the areas of elder law, estate planning, estate administration and litigation, and health care law. Cona Elder Law takes a holistic approach to elder law, providing support and resources for older adults and caregivers, and maintains long-term, partnering relationships with clients to provide the best solutions for multiple generations.

Prev123...112Next Page 2 of 112
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

©