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Huntington’s Pink in the Park event a success

by Press Release - September 30, 2024

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Over 60 vendors and local officials show support for breast cancer prevention

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The Town of Huntington’s Pink in the Park Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness Fair, held on September 29 at Heckscher Park, was a resounding success. The event, spearheaded by Councilwoman Theresa Mari, drew over 60 vendors and a strong show of support from local officials and the community. Attendees enjoyed a beautiful walk around Heckscher Park, despite a few brief weather interruptions, and were treated to a vibrant performance by Dancin’ Feet that energized the crowd.

Local officials who joined the event to show their support included Supervisor Ed Smyth, Councilman Salvatore Ferro, Director of Highway Andre Sorrentino, Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (18th District), Director of Parks Cable “Todd” Jamison, Chief of Staff Michelle McCarthy, Town Attorney Susan Coleman, Congressman Nick LaLota, and Huntington Republican Party Chairman Thomas McNally. Their participation highlighted the collective commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer prevention and supporting those affected by the disease.

Councilwoman Theresa Mari, a breast cancer survivor herself, shared her personal journey and underscored the importance of early detection and community support. Senator Mario Mattera (2nd District) also spoke passionately about his wife Terry’s battle with breast cancer, adding a deeply personal and touching perspective to the event.

“The success of Pink in the Park wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of so many,” said Councilwoman Mari. “I am incredibly grateful to all the vendors, local officials, and attendees who came together to create such a supportive and inspiring day for our community.”

Councilwoman Mari’s team, Legislative Aide Michelle Wright and Legislative Secretary Phillip Griffin, ensured the event went off without a hitch. They were on hand to assist vendors, the press, and attendees, and helped distribute promotional bags to those in attendance.

The event served as a vital platform for sharing breast cancer resources, raising awareness, and fostering community solidarity. Pink in the Park was more than just a fair; it was a day of hope, healing, and empowerment for those touched by breast cancer.

For more information on future events or breast cancer resources, please visit the Town of Huntington’s website or contact the office of Councilwoman Theresa Mari at 631-351-3173.

Mather Hospital’s Paint Port Pink kicks off Oct. 1

by Press Release - September 30, 2024

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Get ready to paint the town pink!

For the 10th year running, Port Jefferson is transforming into a vibrant beacon of hope and awareness as Paint Port Pink takes center stage throughout October. This inspiring initiative, spearheaded by Mather Hospital’s Fortunato Breast Health Center, unites the Village of Port Jefferson, local businesses and the community in a powerful stand against breast cancer.

The streets bathed in a rosy glow and storefronts adorned with pink lights and flags are a visual reminder of the importance of early detection.

This year, the campaign celebrates a decade of success in spreading a vital message: early detection saves lives. Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the Fortunato Breast Health Center has been at the forefront of this fight, investing in cutting-edge 3-D mammography technology that can detect even the tiniest cancers in their earliest stages. Today 70% of breast cancers diagnosed at Fortunato are now caught at Stage zero or one. Breast cancer at these early stages is highly treatable and has a five-year survivor rate at 99%.

But the fight doesn’t stop there. Paint Port Pink, now reaching beyond Port Jefferson to encompass surrounding communities, serves as a powerful reminder for women to prioritize their health. Annual mammograms, starting at age 40, are crucial, and the campaign provides resources and support to ensure everyone has access to these life-saving screenings. Mather Hospital is a member of the Cancer Services Program of Suffolk County which offers free screenings based on age, income and residence. Screenings can take place at the Fortunato Breast Health Center. To learn more, call 631- 548-6320.

Join Port Jefferson in celebrating the power of community, the importance of early detection, and the hope that Paint Port Pink represents. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

The Paint Port Pink calendar includes:

Oct. 1 — Light the lights! Community partners including the Village of Port Jefferson will light their pink lights and display banners. Mather Hospital’s cupola goes pink as well.

Oct. 3 — Pints for Pink third annual fundraiser for the Fortunato Breast Health Center at the Po’ Boy Brewery in Port Jefferson from 6 to 8 p.m. The $25 admission includes refreshments and free registration for the 2025 Northwell Health Walk at Port Jefferson. Register at matherhospital.org/pintsforpink

Oct. 15 — The second annual EmpowerHER women’s health seminar, this year at the Coram Fire Department’s community room, from 6 to 8 p.m. The $10 registration fee includes a buffet dinner and free registration for the 2025 Northwell Health Walk at Port Jefferson in support of the Fortunato Breast Health Center. Register at matherhospital.org/empowerher

Oct. 18 — Wear Pink Day/National Mammography Day – Get your pink on for this annual event and post photos on social media with #paintportpink.

Become a community partner and decorate your business’ exterior in pink for a chance to win tickets to a 2025 concert at Jones Beach. Send photos of your window by Oct. 20 to [email protected]. Become a community partner at matherhospital.org/paintportpink.

Pink Your Pumpkin — The popular pumpkin decorating contest returns! Find your perfect pumpkin, decorate it in the pinkest fashion possible, take a photo and email your pumpkin photo to [email protected] by Oct. 22. The winner will receive a $100 gift card.

Paint Port Pink is generously sponsored by New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, King Quality, Po’ Boy Brewery, Riverhead Toyota, and Tuscany Gourmet Market.

For more information , visit paintportpink.org or call 631-476-2723.

Blydenburgh Park still facing the repercussions of flash flood, residents await developments

by Aramis Khosronejad - September 29, 2024

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By Aramis Khosronejad

Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown has been one of Long Island’s shining gems. Its endless outdoors activities for nature lovers and the beautiful scenery of Stump Pond have made it a favorite of Long Island residents.

However, the North Shore flooding Aug. 18-19 dramatically changed the county park’s immediate future. The park, like the Mill Pond in Stony Brook, is suffering the repercussions of the flash flood.

Blydenburgh Park is situated at the headwaters of Nissequogue River and is 627 acres of preserved land. Blydenburgh Lake, otherwise known as Stump Pond due to the stumps of the various trees that were cut down to create the lake, has an additional history which adds to its charm.

The lake was created by a dam constructed by Isaac Blydenburgh and his cousins all the way back in 1798. Over 200 years later, the original dam would be breached by a once-in-a-thousand-years flash flooding for Long Island, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s (D) website description. The Weather Network said there was almost 12 inches of rainfall in Smithtown alone.

The destruction of the dam was a catastrophe for Blydenburgh Lake. The water poured into the Nissequogue River, turning the remains of the famous lake into a dry mud land with only a few meager ponds here and there.

There are various consequences of this kind of colossal drainage, one of which is the effect it will have on wildlife in the area. Blydenburgh was a favorite spot for locals to fish, according to On The Water magazine. The drainage of the lake resulted in a “popular fishery being wiped out overnight,” according to On The Water’s Nick Cancelliere.

Residents who enjoy other outdoor water activities such as kayaking and canoeing are pushing for a quick restoration of the Blydenburgh dam.

A month ago, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R) made a public statement affirming the local sentiment about the reconstruction of the dam. “We will be restoring [the dam] as soon as possible,” he said.

The question remains: How will the county manage this immense repair and how long will it take?

Peter Scully is director of business development for Hayduk Engineering of Ronkonkoma and former deputy county executive, and has an extensive history working for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. In an interview with TBR, he underscored the rarity of such an event as the one witnessed by Long Islanders in August.

He continued on, saying how recovery for any park greatly affected by the flash flood, such as Smithtown’s Blydenburgh Park, would take a long time.

Financial support for this size of repair will have to come from the state and federal government.

All that locals are able to do is wait and see how the reconstruction of the treasured Blydenburgh Park will play out, how long it will be and what it will take.

Centereach High School Music Department hits the high note for a good cause

by Press Release - September 29, 2024

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The Centereach High School music department recently held a successful car wash fundraiser at Applebee’s in Lake Grove, raising funds for their upcoming spring trip to Disney.

Held in the parking lot of the popular restaurant, the event drew a steady stream of vehicles as students washed and polished cars to support their cause. Their efforts helped generate vital funds and showcased their dedication and teamwork.

Adding a special touch to the day, the Centereach Fire Department brought fire trucks to be washed, further boosting community engagement. The collaboration highlighted the strong community spirit and created a memorable experience for participants.

“The support we received from the community and the Centereach Fire Department was incredible,” said Brian Hough, a Centereach High School music teacher. “It’s heartwarming to see such enthusiasm for our students and their upcoming trip. Every dollar raised will go toward giving our students an unforgettable experience.”

The funds raised will go toward expenses related to the spring music trip, where students will have the opportunity to perform and learn in new environments. The music department expressed its gratitude to Applebee’s, the fire department, and all who came out to support the event. The community’s generosity continues to play a crucial role in creating opportunities for local students.

Newfield boys soccer loses winning streak in double overtime against Connetquot

by Bill Landon - September 28, 2024

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By Bill Landon

The Newfield boys soccer squad, having won their last three games picking off North Babylon, Bay Shore and Lindenhurst, looked to make it four in a row in a nonleague matchup with Connetquot at home Monday afternoon, Sept. 23.

After a scoreless first half, Connetquot struck first midway through the second half to break the ice but the Wolverines co-captain Eli Rubio’s shot found the back of the net two minutes later to make it a new game. With both teams deadlocked at 1-1, time expired in regulation forcing the first of two overtime periods.

After an unproductive first overtime period, it was a Connetquot goal that snatched the victory, 2-1, from the Wolverines.

Newfield will look to get back to their winning ways with a road game against Commack on Friday, Sept. 27. Game time is slated for 4:30 p.m.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Shoreham-Wading River girls soccer continue their winning streak

by Bill Landon - September 28, 2024

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By Bill Landon

The reigning Long Island champion and New York State semifinalist, the Lady Wildcats of Shoreham-Wading River, made it four in a row Saturday morning, Sept. 21, with a road game against Elwood-John Glenn with a 2-0 shutout in a League VII matchup.

Olivia Pesso, a junior who took up soccer just last season scored the icebreaker at the 22-minute mark of the second half to put the Wildcats ahead. Mia Mangano’s foot spoke two minutes later when the junior drove the ball into the back of the net on a penalty kick for the insurance goal.

Shoreham-Wading River goalie Morgan Lesiewicz made 10 stops in net.

The Wildcats traveled to Southampton Tuesday, Sept. 24, and continued their winning streak by easily beating the Mariners, 5-0.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Northport-East Northport BOE eyes collaborative teaching model, reviews goals for 2024-25 school year

by Sabrina Artusa - September 27, 2024

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Screenshot 2024-09-25 at 11.49.59 AM — The Northport-East Northport Board of Education at their Sept. 18 meeting. Screenshot from the Northport-East Northport School District website

By Sabrina Artusa

At the Sept. 18 meeting, the Northport-East Northport Board of Education reviewed upcoming goals and changes as the school year begins.

Students and schools have completed a seamless transition into the 2024-25 school year, which started on Sept. 4 for students grades 1-12.

The board reported that it met with various committee leaders and liaisons. The committee meetings will be starting next month.

“I think we had a really positive start to the school year and I just want to reinforce that” said Superintendent Dave Moyer, who attended many student athletic events. “It’s enjoyable to see everybody back out there doing their thing.”

This will be Moyer’s first full year as superintendent. At the prior meeting, Moyer presented a teaching model he hopes to implement this year called Professional Learning Communities.

This is not a program but a model of teaching that Moyer hopes would help impact students’ absorption of material, engagement and enthusiasm. According to Moyer’s presentation at the last meeting, this method requires a collective effort of teachers as opposed to teaching without collaboration.

At the Sept. 5 meeting, Moyer explained that they will be repurposing some of the staff to include duties that honor the PLCs and that are more supportive to teachers — these staff members will be taking a more “active role” in assisting teachers. He mentioned instructional coordinators and future-focused teaching positions as examples.

Moyer hopes that PLCs will be beneficial to teachers as well, whose jobs are getting “more and more intense” every year. PLC is pitched as a mutually beneficial model that will help both students and teachers reach their potential.

“When teachers get in a collaborative environment and realize they don’t have to do everything themselves, it starts to make the work more manageable,” Moyer said on Sept. 5. “It starts to make them feel like they do have an impact and they can manage the work because they are working on a team and they don’t have to do it by themselves.”

Carol Taylor, BOE president, said she “loves the vision” of PLCs.

“There is a tangible deliverable with this,” she said at the Sept. 5 meeting. “When teachers have the opportunity to be collaborative, there is an atmosphere of support. So, if you aren’t doing your best, you are learning how to be your best and with that comes creativity.”

She noted that years ago Responsive Classroom was emerging as a teaching method and is now the standard. She said she expects PLCs to be no different.

Professional learning communities would require teachers to meet regularly to develop better leadership strategies, share successful methodologies, reflect on trouble areas and to coordinate their teaching strategies so as to optimize their students growth.

Moyer clarified his plan regarding PLCs – some people expressed uncertainty about whether it would increase the budget.

“PLCs are not something that comes with a price tag,” Moyer clarified after alluding to concerns raised after the previous meeting. Grant money will be used as support. The board has $60,000 in grant funding. Moyer said there will be “no budgetary impact.”

The next BOE meeting is Oct. 10 at William J. Brosnan School at 7 p.m. On Nov.7 the board will give a presentation on school improvement plans for each school. Every meeting’s minutes, agenda and recording will be posted online.

Harborfields BOE unveils multi year capital plan and advances capital bon

by Peter Sloniewsky - September 27, 2024

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By Peter Sloniewsky

Harborfields Central School District Board of Education met Wednesday, Sept. 18 to address a wide-ranging number of agenda items.

Superintendent Rory Manning and President Susan Broderick at the Harborfields Central School District Board of Education meeting. –Photo courtesy the Harborfields Central School District livestream

First, the board was presented with a capital bond update detailing a number of projects the district has planned through the summer of 2026. The plan, broken up into three phases, began in January with the design phase, which will continue in this period until May.

Construction in this first phase includes roof replacement and repair and replacement of the outdoor track at Harborfields High School, alongside a number of similar changes made across the district around October. Construction will continue through the summer of 2025.

Phase 2 will run from June 2024 to spring 2026, and Phase 3 from October 2024 to summer 2026. These projects include air conditioning installation at the high school, repairs to outdoor facilities such as basketball and tennis courts, and “general classroom enhancements” across the district.

Beyond this presentation, the board approved a variety of financial documentation and human resources work. The board also elected its voting delegate to the New York State School Boards Association convention, namely BOE member — and Suffolk County Legislature candidate — Dr. Eve Meltzer-Krief.

Finally, the board approved the implementation of two new educational programs: Individualized Education Programming and the Marketing Pathway Career and Technical Education program.

The board will meet again Oct. 16 at 7:45 p.m. at Oldfield Middle School.

Mount Sinai BOE holds first school year meeting, discusses harassment guidelines

by Jennifer Donatelli - September 27, 2024

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MountSinai_HighSchool_Donlonw-700x357 — Mount Sinai High School. File photo

By Jennifer Donatelli

Mount Sinai Board of Education held its first meeting of the new school year Wednesday, Sept. 18. Superintendent Christine Criscione began the public session by announcing the arts scholars, updating and aligning the district’s activities for the Dignity for All Students Act and its obligations for the schools, as well as introducing the first student member on the board. The BOE approved the first draft of the Student Harassment and Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy Handbook, which will be distributed this year.

This year, the Long Island Scholar-Artist Award presented by the Long Island Arts Alliance was given to Mackenzie Kling for her theater performance. Matthew Manzo, Carrie Wang and Erika Lo received all-state honors and are among an elite group of musicians who received a score of 100 on NYSSMA. In addition, Orlando DiDesidero, along with Kling and Manzo were also named to the All-County Vocal Jazz Ensemble All-State Honors and will participate in November alongside 15 other students who were also nominated. Newsday will feature each scholar in its “monthly profiles” section. The students will also be eligible for early scholarship consideration by Long Island Arts Alliance higher education partners.

Christina Romeo, high school assistant principal, updated everyone about the benefits of DASA in the district and explained how it creates a learning environment free of discrimination and harassment for all students. She went on to explain that it also mandates the reporting of all incidents of harassment, bullying, cyberbullying and discrimination based on a person’s race, color, weight, nationality, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex.

The district is currently developing guidelines for school training programs to discourage discrimination and harassment, raise awareness and sensitivity to potential issues related to those topics, and enable employees to prevent and respond to incidents of discrimination and harassment.

Romeo also mentioned that individual schools within each district are responsible for designating and training one staff member as the dignity act coordinator who is trained to address incidents of harassment, bullying and discrimination. The district must also provide training for all employees to increase awareness and sensitivity to the existence and effects of harassment, bullying and discrimination and develop a school strategy to prevent it. Romeo said, “We need a consistent practice across all three buildings and we need to come together as a district to make the policy work.”

The newest board member, Mount Sinai High School junior Audrey Han, represents all students within the district. She spoke about Spirit Week as well as the Homecoming Dance and football game against Miller Place. The school is rolling out a program called Mustang Manners, which is a character education system that encourages students, teachers and staff to live by certain values of respect, accountability and behavior in a fun way.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 16.

Dunkin’ restaurant in Smithtown celebrates grand reopening

by Press Release - September 27, 2024

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Members of the local community and Dunkin’ fans alike poured into Dunkin’s newly remodeled next generation restaurant at 560 Smithtown Bypass in Smithtown on Sept. 19 as part of its grand reopening ceremony.

Dunkin’ franchisee Scott Campbell of Metro Franchising commemorated the occasion with a $2,500 donation to The Viscardi Center. The Viscardi Center is a non-profit organization that educates, employs, and empowers children, adults, and veterans with disabilities or similar needs, so they can all discover the love of learning, the power of work, the freedom of independent living, and the self-confidence to fulfill their dreams.

“The Henry Viscardi School is proud to be the recipient of such generous support from Metro Franchising and Dunkin’,” said The Viscardi Center Chief Development Officer Lauren Marzo. “Our relationship spans well over a decade, and Dunkin’s support has helped provide critical programs for our students with severe disabilities. These programs help our students learn, grow and take important steps toward an independent future.”

The celebration also included New York State Senator Mario Mattera, Suffolk County Undersheriff John Becker, members of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fourth Precinct, members of the Smithtown Fire Department and representatives on behalf of U.S. Congressman Nick LaLota, who joined Dunkin’ representatives for a commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The morning featured all guests receiving a free medium hot or iced coffee and a donut, while many other Dunkin’ Rewards members spun the Dunkin’ prize wheel for free Dunkin’ merchandise.

The 2,000-square-foot Dunkin’ employs 20 crew members and is open daily from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m.

For more information, call 631-257-5072.

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