Business

On behalf of the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University, Deputy Executive Director Jonathan Spier (second from left) accepted a $50,000 donation from members of the LaSpina family, owners of Maple Family Centers: (from left) Joe LaSpina, John LaSpina, Teresa LaSpina McCarthy and Anita LaSpina. Photo courtesy of Maple Family Centers

Maple Family Centers, a family-owned and operated group of bowling centers, presented a $50,000 donation to the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University on July 16.

Maple Family Centers, which owns bowling centers in Rockville Centre, Coram and Flushing in New York as well as two bowling centers in Florida, has raised more than $750,000 for the Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL), a national charity that supports recreational therapy programs to speed recuperation and boost morale of America’s veteran and active-duty service men and women. 

Funds that Maple raises for BVL are distributed to local organizations serving veterans in communities across Maple’s footprint, including the Long Island State Veterans Home, a 350-bed skilled nursing facility that also provides adult day healthcare and rehabilitation services for veterans and their families. 

These donations, which support therapeutic recreation programs for veterans, would not be possible without the generous support of Maple bowlers, who understand the company’s mission to brighten the lives of veterans every day and enthusiastically contribute to the cause.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to the LaSpina family and Maple Family Centers for their generous donation to the Long Island State Veterans Home,” said Fred S. Sganga, FACHE, Executive Director of the Long Island State Veterans Home. “Their unwavering support significantly enhances both the quality of life and the quality of care for our nation’s veterans. The LaSpina family’s commitment to our veterans is truly commendable, and we are immensely grateful for their dedication to ensuring our heroes receive the respect and care they deserve.”

Owner Karen Sullivan cuts the ribbon to her new store. Photo courtesy of PJCC
Owner Karen Sullivan with her husband Phil. Photo courtesy of PJCC

Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on June 27 for a new retail store, The Wellness Stop, at 146 East Main Street in Port Jefferson. The event was attended by members of the chamber, staff, family and friends.

According to thier mission statement, the shop offers “curated products that will promote optimal lifestyles for your mind, body and soul.” The large variety of items include candles, bath products, pet products, books, totes and eco-friendly items like moss birdhouses that are safe, effective and made with the highest quality ingredients. 

Hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information, call 631-377-5770.

Sunrise celebrates groundbreaking project. Photo courtesy Sunrise Wind.

By Serena Carpino

Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) announced Wednesday, July 17, the start of construction on Sunrise Wind, an offshore wind farm about 30 miles off the coast of Montauk. The project is spearheaded by Ørsted, a global leader in renewable energy. To celebrate the groundbreaking of the project, officials from Ørsted met with several government leaders at the Boys & Girls Club in Bellport.

Earlier this year, Sunrise Wind received its Record of Decision from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management for clearance to begin construction. At the time, the project was run by Ørsted and Eversource, another clean energy leader.

Sunrise Wind is now fully overseen by Ørsted, which agreed to buy Eversource’s 50% share at a value of $152 million, a significant decrease from the projected purchase price in January, set at $230 million due to a reduction in the anticipated capex for the project. The two closed a deal earlier this month, with Ørsted expecting the wind farm to be operating in 2026.

David Hardy, Ørsted executive vice president and CEO of Region Americas, in a statement said, “Sunrise Wind has been significantly de-risked and achieved important milestones since we agreed with Eversource to buy their share. The transaction is a value-accretive opportunity for Ørsted as we continue to develop the project.”

In addition, Hardy highlighted the companies’ achievements and expressed gratitude for Eversource. “As a centerpiece of New York’s clean energy economy, Sunrise Wind builds on our momentum from South Fork Wind [another wind farm developed by Ørsted and Eversource], further expanding the local offshore wind supply chain and workforce. We thank Eversource for their years of partnership and ongoing support.”

The Sunrise Wind plan is to create 800 direct union jobs and $700 million in economic revenue. Officials expect that, upon completion, the 924 megawatts of clean energy generated by the farm will power around 600,000 homes. 

Groundbreaking ceremony

Leaders in attendance at Wednesday’s groundbreaking ceremony included Elizabeth Klein, director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Doreen Harris, president and CEO of New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R).

Ørsted was congratulated for this advancement in the development of Sunrise Wind. The importance of this project was stressed in helping New York State officials achieve their current energy goals: utilizing 70% clean energy by 2030 and 100% by 2040. 

“Today’s shovels in the ground … marks yet another step forward in advancing offshore wind in New York state, and realizing the potential of this powerhouse industry in accelerating the state’s energy transition and growing our economy,” Harris said.

In addition, Klein commented that the wind farm is a key step in allowing the Biden-Harris administration as well as New York to meet their renewable energy goals, reiterating that “BOEM is proud to join the State of New York and Ørsted in celebrating this milestone as we work together for a cleaner energy future, while providing good-paying jobs and ensuring economic opportunities are accessible to all communities.”

Sunrise Wind has also received significant bipartisan support, with many politicians commenting on the benefits of the wind farm. 

“The day has finally come when this important project starts to take the final step toward becoming a reality,” Romaine said. “These projects will help transform the region and keep Suffolk County more affordable. I thank Governor Hochul for her efforts and commitment to clean energy in New York state.”

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D) also highlighted the significant impact that offshore wind farms will have on improving New York’s economy and reducing harmful emissions.

“Today’s groundbreaking marks the start of construction on Sunrise Wind — New York’s largest job-creating and clean-energy producing offshore wind project that will change the energy landscape in New York for the better,” he said.

“Built with union labor, Sunrise Wind will provide clean energy for hundreds of thousands of New York homes and boost the regional economy. New York’s energy needs are vast, and so is the urgent need to reduce the greenhouse gasses driving climate change,” he added.

Schumer emphasized that he would continue to work with other government officials to further future renewable energy projects.

Brenda Anderson. Photo by John Griffin/SBU

Stony Brook University Professor Brenda Anderson, PhD has been elected as the new University Senate President effective on July 1, 2024. The University Senate is the primary campus-wide academic governance body at Stony Brook and is made up of a senate, and  standing committees that collaborate with administration to discuss issues that impact the university as a whole. The University Senate meets regularly and is a major force for institutional-policy making at the university. Professor Anderson will succeed previous University Senate President Richard Larson.

The  Executive Committee of the University Senate is composed of the University Senate President, three Vice-Presidents, the Secretary and Treasurer of the Senate, the Co-Chairs of the Professional Employees Governing  Board, the President of the Undergraduate Student Government or designee and the President of the Graduate Student Organization or designee. In addition, the Stony Brook representatives on the SUNY Faculty Senate choose one of their members to represent them as a voting member of the University Senate Executive Committee.

The Committee acts for and to further the activities of the University Senate. The University Senate also has a Coordinating Council which facilitates the sharing of information and the coordination of activities among the Standing Committees of the University Senate. The Standing Committees provide a major part of the Senate’s work, which consists of elected representatives of faculty, staff and students. The Executive Committee meets with the  University President, Provost, and other senior administrators each month. The University Senate President is also a member of the University Council.

Anderson is a Professor of Integrative Neuroscience, in the Department of Psychology, where she studied how experience influences behavior and brain function. Her expertise lies in behavior analysis, learning and memory, and quantitative neuroanatomy. Using these approaches, and animal models she developed for motor skill learning and psychological stress, she has investigated how experience modifies behavior, neural metabolic capacity and the number of synaptic connections. Her work has received support from the National Institute of Mental Health.

“I am looking forward to working with the exceptional members of the senate, and the leaders on its Executive Committee and standing committees,” said Anderson. “My goal is to build the relationships within the senate. I hope to continue the senate’s collaborative relationship with the President, Provost, and Vice President of Stony Brook Medicine so that Stony Brook University may fully capitalize on our well-deserved recognition as a flagship institution in New York.

 

 

Dr. Robert Courgi

New York Health (NY Health) is proud to announce the addition of board-certified Endocrinologist Robert Courgi, MD. Dr. Courgi will see patients at 5316 Nesconset Highway, Suite 200, Port Jefferson Station.

“Dr. Courgi’s extensive experience in the endocrinology field is going to become a great asset to the New York Health team. He is committed to providing great care to all of his patients. Welcome aboard, Dr. Courgi,” said Dr. Chris Ng, Executive Director of NY Health.

During medical school, Dr. Courgi became acutely aware of the widespread prevalence of diabetes among Americans. This realization led him to a pivotal moment in his career. “Early on, I recognized that I wanted to be part of the solution,” said Dr. Courgi. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing availability of new treatment options, Dr. Courgi committed himself to providing the best possible care for his patients.

Dr. Courgi, who speaks English, Arabic, and French, obtained his medical degree from St George’s University School of Medicine. He subsequently completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Long Island Jewish Hospital. Dr. Courgi furthered his expertise through a Fellowship in Endocrinology/Diabetes at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island.

Dr. Courgi’s approach to medicine has always been patient-centered. “I am excited to join New York Health, the premier center for primary and specialty care services,” said Dr. Courgi.

To schedule an appointment, please call 631-393-5728. For more information, visit nyhealth.com.

About New York Health

New York Health (NYHealth) is the premier center for primary and specialty care services. Our network of outstanding physicians specialize in endocrinology, family medicine, internal medicine, physical therapy, nephrology, rheumatology, surgery, urology, OB/GYN, and interventional spine and pain. At NY Health, we are dedicated to healthcare excellence and provide highly professional, sensitive, and personalized care. For more information, visit nyhealth.com.

The entrance to Suffolk Counseling Services in Smithtown.

Suffolk Counseling Services, with offices in Sayville and Babylon, has announced the opening of its third location at 119 West Main Street in Smithtown, aimed at addressing the pressing mental health needs in the community. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year. In addition, the recent global events have further exacerbated the mental health crisis, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression among individuals of all ages.

By opening a new location in Smithtown and offering both in-person and telehealth sessions, Suffolk Counseling Services aims to provide accessible and quality mental health support to those in need. It is also one of the only practices that serves children, adolescents, and adults and accepts most insurances. The new facility will offer a range of services, including therapy, counseling, and support groups, to help individuals navigate their mental health challenges effectively.

“We are excited to extend our services to the Smithtown community and provide much-needed mental health support during these challenging times,” said Alyson Ryan, LCSW, founder of Suffolk Counseling Services. “Our team is dedicated to offering compassionate care and evidence-based treatments to help individuals lead healthier and happier lives.”

The new location officially opened its doors on July 24, welcoming individuals seeking mental health support in a warm and inclusive environment.

For more information about Suffolk Counseling Services and their new location, please visit their website at www.suffolkcounselingservices.com or contact them at 631-629-2250.

Photo by LSB Photography

The Long Island Game Farm in Manorville unveiled its newly renovated amphitheater with a special ribbon cutting ceremony in honor of the late Susan M. Novak on Thursday, July 18. 

 

From left, Steve Bard, Melinda Novak and Patricia Snyder at the ribbon cutting ceremony. Photo by LSB Photography

Alongside the game farm’s nonprofit arm, the Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability, the afternoon featured remarks from Long Island Game Farm president Melinda Novak, Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability executive director Patricia Snyder, and special guests. The game farm also announced upcoming programs, followed by a special performance by Aim High Canines, featuring rescue dog SuperNova. 

In winter 2023, Long Island Game Farm had received a $568,000 grant from Suffolk County as part of the JumpSMART Small Business Downtown Investment Program, which provides funding to support downtown growth and to help local businesses and institutions to remain economically competitive. The funds were used to renovate the amphitheater, which was completed by East Bay Builders, and will also be used to create a universal access trail.

In addition to Long Island Game Farm president Melinda Novak and Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability executive director Patricia Snyder, guests included Steve Bard, Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability board member; Wendy Turkington, Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability board member; Jay Naurek, Manorville Chamber of Commerce president and Manorville Fire Commissioners chairman of the board; Karen Dunne Kesnig, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman; Catherine Stark, Suffolk County Legislator District 1; Jodi Giglio, New York State Assemblywoman District 2; and Greg Drossel, Long Island Game Farm director.

The amphitheater stage was named after in honor of president Melinda Novak’s sister, Susan M. Novak, who passed away in 2001. Susan had worked in the family business and had loved performing. The game farm plans to host several performances and events throughout the season.

More information about upcoming programs can be found at longislandgamefarm.com/events.

Big Lots

Big Lots has announced plans to close up to 40 stores by the end of this year and two Long Island locations are on the chopping block.The Centereach location at 231 Centereach Mall and the Carle Place location at 260 Voice Road are slated for closure and currently have sales of up to 20% off.

The announcement, made in a filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, said the discount retailer would be shuttering 35 to 40 stores as its financials worsen in a tough consumer market. The company currently operates over 1,400 stores nationwide. The other five locations on Long Island — Bay Shore, West Babylon, Hicksville, Copiague and the newly opened store in Holbrook — appear to be safe for now.

“In 2024, the U.S. economy has continued to face macroeconomic challenges including elevated inflation, which has adversely impacted the buying power of our customers,” the filing from Big Lots said. According to the financial disclosure, sales dropped 10.2% between the first quarters of 2023 and 2024, equating to a loss of about $114.5 million.

Britt Burner Esq. speaks at the New York State Bar Association’s Elder Law and Special Needs Section summer meeting. Photo courtesy of Britt Burner, Esq.

Burner Prudenti Law has announced that partner Britt Burner, Esq. is the New York State Bar Association’s (NYSBA) newest Chair of the Elder Law and Special Needs Section. She kicked off her term, which officially began on June 1, 2024 and runs through May 31, 2025, at the Section’s annual meeting in Montreal held July 11-13, 2024.

The NYSBA’s Elder Law and Special Needs Section provides members with educational opportunities relating to Elder Law and Special Needs Law. The Section offers CLE (Continuing Legal Education) courses and webinars, as well as published materials on legal practice, procedure, and developments in the law. By helping to enhance the skills of lawyers who practice in this field and by providing them with opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing, the Section aims to improve the quality and efficiency of legal services offered to New Yorkers.

The Section also advocates for improvements in law and procedure that affect seniors and the disability community, in the form of studies, legal analyses and recommendations, and more. Of particular importance to Burner this year as Chair is addressing the legislative and budget concerns, especially those relating to Medicaid, that affect elder law attorneys and their clients.

With vast experience practicing as an elder law and special needs attorney, Britt Burner is well-positioned to lead the Elder Law and Special Needs Section. Before serving as an officer of the Section, she served as Vice Chair of the Section’s Medicaid Committee as well as Chair of its Legislation Committee. In addition to educating other lawyers about this area of law, Burner frequently offers seminars in the community to educate the public about elder law and special needs law as a means to help empower them to make the most informed decisions for their futures and that of their families. She is frequently honored for her contributions to the profession, having been most recently named a 2024 Super Lawyer in the field of Elder Law as well as recognized among the 2024 Best Lawyer rankings for Elder Law and Trusts & Estates in Manhattan, among numerous other awards.

The first order of business as Burner began her new term was to plan the Section’s annual meeting that was held in Montreal from July 11-13, 2024. There, she had an opportunity to share her vision for the upcoming year: increasing membership and continuing to ensure that every NYSBA elder law attorney’s concerns are heard on the state and national level.

“Serving as Chair of the New York State Bar Association Elder Law and Special Needs Section is an honor that I don’t take lightly,” shared Britt Burner, Esq. “As an elder law and special needs attorney I have personally benefited from the collective knowledge and support the Section offers, and I am thrilled to be able to pay it forward by serving as Chair.”

Dr. Jahan Aghalar

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists has announced that Dr. Jahan Aghalar has been recognized as one of Newsweek’s America’s Best Prostate Cancer Oncologists for 2024. This prestigious honor is part of Newsweek’s first annual ranking of America’s Best Prostate Cancer Oncologists & Surgeons, conducted in partnership with Statista.

“We are incredibly proud to have some of the best physicians and disease-specific specialists in the Nation, dedicated to providing world-class cancer care,” said Dr. Jeff Vacirca, Chief Executive Officer of NYCBS. “Dr. Aghalar’s recognition is a reflection of our commitment to excellence and our relentless pursuit of advancing cancer treatment.”

“I am deeply honored to be named among America’s Best Prostate Cancer Oncologists by Newsweek,” said Dr. Aghalar. “This recognition is a testament to the collaborative efforts of my colleagues and the unwavering support from New York Cancer & Blood Specialists. Together, we strive to provide our patients the highest standard of care.”

Dr. Aghalar specializes in malignancies originating from the genitourinary tract, specifically prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancers. For more information, visit nycancer.com or call 631-751-3000.