Business

Applebees

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar on Jan. 4 announced the official launch of its 5th annual Above and “BEE”yond Teacher Essay Contest, which recognizes top teachers – as nominated by their students – by rewarding them with a sponsorship check and end-of-year class party. The contest is being offered at Applebee’s restaurants in Long Island owned and operated by local franchisee Doherty Enterprises.

Applebee’s will award two deserving teachers, one in Nassau County and one in Suffolk County, with a $500 sponsorship check to use toward their classroom for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year, along with an end-of-year party for their current class*! To nominate a teacher and enter the contest, students must submit an essay in-person at their local Applebee’s explaining why their teacher deserves to be Applebee’s “Teacher of the Year.” As an additional incentive, students who enter an essay will also receive a free ice cream certificate** for later use. Essay submissions are limited to one per student and will be accepted at participating Applebee’s restaurants from Monday, January 4 through Sunday March 7, no later than 10pm. Winners will be announced on Monday, April 12 and end-of-year parties will be thrown before Sunday, June 27. If end-of-year parties are not viable, class parties will be replaced with two Dinner for Four certificates.

“We’re excited to announce the launch of our fifth annual Above and BEEyond Teacher Essay Contest at our Long Island restaurants,” said Kurt Pahlitzsch, director of operations, Applebee’s Long Island. “Our restaurants are committed to giving back to the local community now more than ever. We’re honored to support local schoolteachers who have transitioned from in-classroom teaching to online teaching, as Applebee’s wants to recognize their dedication and hard work amidst the pandemic.”

Applebee’s Above and “BEE”yond Teacher Essay Contest entries will be accepted at the following Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Doherty Enterprises on Long Island in: Nassau County: Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury and in Suffolk County:  Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley.

*One winner will be selected from both Nassau and Suffolk counties. Please note, essay submissions from the 2020-2021 school year will also be included in this year’s voting. Prizes are subject to change based on COVID-19 restrictions. If end-of-year parties are not viable, class parties will be replaced with two Dinner for Four certificates.

**Offer valid only at Doherty Enterprises owned and operated Applebee’s® locations in LI. Limit one per person. May not be redeemed on day of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Bob's Stores in Selden. Photo by Heidi Sutton

Bob’s Store in Selden may be closing its doors but it’s not ready to call it quits. An employee at the 17 Middle Country Road location confirmed that the business is moving next door into the former A.C. Moore Arts and Crafts location at 15 Middle Country Road by the end of February.

The large department store, which sells clothing and shoes, is located in the College Plaza Shopping Center which also houses ShopRite, Panera Bread, Duck Donuts and the Selden Post Office.

It is rumored that the national crafts and home decor chain Hobby Lobby has expressed interest in the space.

Photo from Councilman LaValle's office

Brookhaven Town Councilman Kevin LaValle (center) attended a ribbon cutting for Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in Centereach on Nov. 23. Located at 1770 Middle Country Road in front of Island Thrift, the fast-food chain is known for its signature chicken, fried shrimp, biscuits and most recently, its fried chicken sandwiches.

“I was happy to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen … I want to thank them for giving me the grand tour of their new building and letting me try some of their delicious food, and I wish them the best of luck with their new business!” said Councilman LaValle.

In addition to the Centereach location, there are currently nine other Popeyes locations in Suffolk County including Patchogue, Shirley, Lindenhurst, Bay Shore, Huntington, Riverhead, Brentwood, Deer Park and Coram.

Hours for the Centereach restaurant are 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays and 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. For more information, call 631-648-8736

Jefferson’s Ferry CEO Bob Caulfield and Jefferson’s Ferry board member and Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Valerie Cartright at the Dec. 10 groundbreaking. Photo from Jefferson's Ferry

South Setauket retirement community Jefferson’s Ferry broke ground Dec. 10 on a $89 million expansion and renovation project creating 60 new apartment-style homes and more amenities to its One Jefferson Ferry Drive facility.

Once completed, the 165,000 square foot project will add 60 new independent living one- and two-bedroom, plus den apartment homes with open floor plans to Jefferson’s Ferry’s existing 220 apartments and 28 cottages. Plans also call for a new marketplace café, bistro-bar, destination dining room with alternating types of cuisines. Part of the project includes renovations, additions and the construction of a new 28,520 square foot building.

In a release, Jefferson’s Ferry CEO Bob Caulfield said the new facility will “enhance the lifestyle and experience for current residents and appeal to the desires and needs of a whole new generation of Long Islanders planning for retirement.”

The new project is partially due to tax-exempt bonds secured from the Town of Brookhaven Local Development Corporation. At its Oct. 20 public hearing for the proposed bonds, the LDC said the bonds were expected to be $100,000,000 and up to and not to exceed $125,000,000. The bond issuer is also expected to provide additional financial assistance with mortgage recording taxes exemptions for financing or refinancing of the project, according to the hearing minutes.

“The Brookhaven Local Development Corporation is pleased to play a small part in the expansion of this outstanding residence and health care facility,” Frederick C. Braun III, chairman of the Brookhaven LDC, said in a release. 

Last August, the retirement community was awarded low-cost energy by the ReCharge NY energy program to support the multi-million dollar expansion and renovation project. 

Jefferson’s Ferry currently employs 350 people and is expected to add 41 jobs in exchange for 435 kilowatts of power for a 7-year period. 

“The cost savings are significant to Jefferson’s Ferry, and, in turn, to residents living on fixed incomes,” Caulfield said. “Reducing our energy costs through this program goes a long way in helping us control the amount of fees we charge our members, giving them peace of mind about their future.” 

The new Healthy Living Center will incorporate a modern and fully equipped gym and fitness room with access to professional trainers, plus a state of the art wellness and rehabilitation center. Residents can continue to access preventive care from a team of wellness experts in audiology, internal medicine, cardiology, dentistry, podiatry, psychiatry and ear, nose and throat specialists. Lab services and assistance with making medical appointments and filling prescriptions are also available.

“Our community is designed for aging better for longer, whether you live in independent living, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing,” Caulfield said.

The construction project includes an addition to the existing Vincent Bove Health Center, including a new assisted living building designed for residents living with Alzheimer’s dementia and other memory impairing diseases. Existing dining, activities and community spaces in the assisted living and the skilled nursing center will be renovated to allow more space in a kind of open air environment, according to Jefferson’s Ferry.

Flushing Bank in Shirley
 Flushing Bank in Islandia

Flushing Bank recently hosted two ribbon-cutting ceremonies at its new Islandia and Shirley locations in Suffolk County. These are two of the four locations resulting from the Bank’s recent acquisition of Empire National Bank.  Members of Flushing Bank’s management team were joined by several state and local elected officials at the event.

“I am extremely excited about the opportunity made possible by our recent acquisition of Empire National Bank to expand our Long Island presence and introduce Flushing Bank to the Suffolk County market. We look forward to building upon the relationships that have been established with our customers and expanding our banking services to the individuals, families, and businesses in the surrounding areas,” said John R. Buran, President and CEO of Flushing Bank.

“As a community bank, we recognize the importance of giving back and demonstrating our commitment to the communities we serve. And, we are extremely excited to be a part of their economic recovery, growth, and development,” he said.

In top photo, joining Flushing Bank’s ribbon-cutting at the Shirley branch were, from left, Thomas Buonaiuto, Senior EVP, Chief of Staff and Deposit Channel Executive, Flushing Bank; Pat Mezeuk, Director of Government Banking, Flushing Bank; Dorothy Lamboy, Assistant Manager, Flushing Bank; Mike Bingold, Senior EVP and Chief Retail and Client Development Officer, Flushing Bank; John Schneidawin, Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning; NYS Assemblywoman-Elect Jodi Giglio, District 2, and Town of Riverhead Councilwoman; Board of Education President Robert Vecchio, William Floyd School District; Suffolk County Clerk Judith Pascale; Krista Classie, Assistant Branch Manager, Flushing Bank; Bill Guiducci, Branch Manager, Flushing Bank; John R. Buran, President and CEO, Flushing Bank; Ana Ortiz, representing New York State Senator Monica Martinez, District 3; Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine; Town of Brookhaven Councilman Daniel Panico, District 6; Tim Rothang, representing Suffolk County Legislator Rudy Sunderman, District 3; Beth Wahl, President, Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics & Shirley; Rhonda Pierson-Delorenzo, VP / Long Island Area Manager, Flushing Bank; and Bill Gianakos, Director of Retail Banking, Flushing Bank.

In photo on right, joining Flushing Bank’s ribbon-cutting at the Islandia branch were (left to right): Tara Ramdeo, Customer Care Associate, Flushing Bank; Thomas Buonaiuto, Senior EVP, Chief of Staff and Deposit Channel Executive, Flushing Bank; Town of Islip Councilwoman Mary Kate Mullen; John Schneidawin, Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning; Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi, District 10; John R. Buran, President and CEO, Flushing Bank; Dorothy Overton, VP / Branch Manager, Flushing Bank; Mike Bingold, Senior EVP and Chief Retail and Client Development Officer, Flushing Bank; Ana Ortiz, representing New York State Senator Monica Martinez, District 3; Rhonda Pierson-Delorenzo, VP / Long Island Area Manager, Flushing Bank; Bill Gianakos, Director of Retail Banking, Flushing Bank; Town of Islip Councilman James O’Connor; Pat Mezeuk, Director of Government Banking, Flushing Bank; and Pat Tiffany, SVP, Marketing Director, Flushing Bank.

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Photo from Huntington Hospital

Huntington Hospital has been recognized with American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline gold plus award for its high-quality care of people with severe heart attacks. The hospital earned this distinction by providing life-saving, time-sensitive patients who experience ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), the most serious type of heart attack caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart. National guidelines recommend that balloon angioplasty be performed within 90 minutes or less of arrival to the hospital. 

This is the first time the hospital has achieved the gold designation; Huntington Hospital received the silver award last year. 

“This achievement was made possible through Huntington Hospital’s partnership between its emergency department and cardiac catheterization laboratory teams, as well as our strong relationship with our community first responders,” said Lawrence Ong, MD, vice president of cardiology for Northwell Health’s Eastern region and chairman of cardiology at Huntington Hospital. The hospital has two cardiac catheterization laboratories as well as two electrophysiology areas

Treatment done this quickly has been made possible in part through the hospital’s use of the LifeNet system, which allows first responders to securely send important health information Electrocardiograms (ECG) to Huntington Hospital’s emergency cardiac team so they can mobilize to help the incoming patient.

For more information about Huntington Hospital’s cardiac services, call 631-351-2000.

 

John R. Buran, President and CEO, Flushing Bank (center) presents the light show tickets to Ray Hopp, Deputy Director, Colonial Youth & Family Services (fourth from left). Joining them were Mike Bingold, Senior EVP and Chief Retail and Client Development Officer, Flushing Bank (third from left); Thomas Buonaiuto, Senior EVP, Chief of Staff and Deposit Channel Executive, Flushing Bank (fourth from right); Samantha Soccorso, Youth Worker, Colonial Youth & Family Services (third from right); and Colonial Youth & Family Services volunteers Tommy Pirello (left), Trishelle Cattell (second from left), Philip Wildner (second from right), and Alexus Rountree (right).

Flushing Bank donated tickets for 25 carloads to the Smith Point Light Show, presented by the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, to Colonial Youth & Family Services. The presentation took place on December 18 at the Flushing Bank’s branch located at 1044 William Floyd Parkway, Shirley, NY. Members of Flushing Bank’s management team were joined by Ray Hopp, Deputy Director of Colonial Youth & Family Services. The tickets will be given to local families free of charge to brighten their holiday season.

“As a community bank, we recognize the importance of giving back and demonstrating our commitment to the communities we serve. We are new to the Suffolk County market, however because of our recent acquisition of Empire National Bank and its long-standing relationship with the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, we are a proud sponsor of the Smith Point Light Show. Our sponsorship package included tickets for twenty-five carloads. Given what a tough year this has been for all of us, we wanted to spread a little holiday cheer to the children and families who could use it most,” said John R. Buran, President and CEO of Flushing Bank. “We are happy that the Colonial Youth & Family Services will be able to provide an opportunity for those in need to see this spectacular event.”

Photo by Katherine Yamaguchi

New York State Assemblyman Doug Smith, Brookhaven Town Councilman Kevin LaValle and Robert Martinez, Chief of Staff, 4th Legislative District attended the ribbon cutting for the new location for Ralph’s Rottens Candy & Nut Shoppe in Centereach. Owner Sally Speciale cut the ribbon surrounded by the Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce, family, friends and staff. 

The new store, located at 115 Mark Tree Road, specializes in nuts, pretzels, candies, chocolates, gift baskets, specialty trays and more.

Hours are Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, call 631-981-3051 or visit www.thecandyshop.com.

Toys collected by Exit Realty Island Elite
Photo from EXIT Eealty Island Elite

In gratitude for the support shown to EXIT Realty Island Elite by the local community, the real estate brokerage recently started collecting toys for the RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE and GIVE KIDS HOPE INC. charities for Jackson’s Toys Drive.

Before he lost his fight to cancer, Jackson asked his mother about whether the children spending their holidays in the hospital received gifts. He believed that no child should go without… that gift-giving was part of the healing process, a way to brighten up their stay and give them hope. Ever since, his mother has worked tirelessly to give throughout Long Island.

“We are proud to be partnered again with JACKSON’S TOY DRIVE, so that we can keep Jackson’s dream alive. The  support of the  local community has been phenonemal.  This year we  will have collected hundreds of toys! That will make a big difference during these challenging times ,” says Jason Furnari, Broker/Owner of EXIT Realty Island Elite located at 4699 Nesconset Highway, Suite 2, in Port Jefferson Station.  For more information, call 631-331-4000 or visit  www.EXITRealtyIslandElite.com.

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Carlos Cano in his new upholstery shop in Upper Port said business has been good despite the pandemic, and the community have been more than supportive. Photo by Kyle Barr

Carlos Cano, a new face to the Port Jefferson scene, could not be happier to be where he is now.

The new shop owner of Cano Decor in Upper Port Jeff has a lot to be thankful for. Though he only opened a month and a half ago in the midst of a pandemic, and in a location more known for empty storefronts than prosperous ones, he said the community has already come out in support of him and his business.

“I’m so happy, you have no idea,” he said. “The neighbors here, they are incredible. … The town is helping me, and I want to help the town.”

Carlos Cano in his new upholstery shop in Upper Port said business has been good despite the pandemic, and the community have been more than supportive. Photo by Kyle Barr

Cano originally owned an upholstery business in the Bronx, where he serviced a lot of high-end clientele in the commercial and restaurant businesses, but because of COVID-19 there was little-to-no work available. Earlier this year, he came to the area to see his brother-in-law’s house, and he immediately fell in love with Port Jefferson village. The restaurants were great, and he enjoyed the walkable aspect to everything. Talking to the landlord of the Upper Port shop, he moved his business here and has been instead focusing more on residential work.

The difference between where he used to work and where he is now could not be more different, and Cano said it’s all for the better. Satisfied customers have even bought him presents, something that would never happen in the city.

“In the Bronx, I used to see the rats fight,” he said. “Here I see the squirrels play.”

And surprisingly, he has been seeing people come through. He’s gotten plenty of work for Thanksgiving and the holidays, and he’s been kept constantly busy since he’s opened. It’s just him and his seamstress working now, where his previous business had six employees.

Cano Decor stands out among the other empty storefront of Upper Port with his bright, cursive letterings on the windows and its floral pattern and leather furniture just behind them. 

“I want to bring that feeling — I want to create that [sensation that things are happening],” he said.

Cano has been doing upholstery practically ever since he came to the United States from Colombia when he was just 14. Now 54, the man said experts in the field are rare. One can count the number of upholstery professionals on Long Island on just one hand.

“This is a dying art,” he said. 

The owner said his business offers residential reupholstering services on furniture, car and marine, as well as curtains and services decor services for restaurants. He promotes that all his material is high quality, with his fabrics being all American made and his leathers sourced from the U.S. or Europe.

Even beyond his work with fabrics, he also wants to see about opening up the shop for quilting or sewing classes, stuff that could perhaps reinvigorate the love and art of working with furniture.

“I want to teach this to somebody — somebody that can take up the torch, in other words,” he said.

Cano Decor can be found at 1530 Main St. in Upper Port, next to Keny Barber Shop. The upholsterer can be contacted at 631-828-2346.