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USCG vessels. File Photo
The Announcement Kicks Off 2025 National Safe Boating Week in Time for the Memorial Day Weekend

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney in partnership with Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr., the East End Marine Law Enforcement Task Force (EEMLETF), and U.S. Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound, announced the launch of Aqua Alert, an innovative pilot program designed to strengthen maritime law enforcement and emergency response across eastern Suffolk County waterways, on May 21.

“This program represents a significant advancement in our ability to enforce maritime laws and protect Suffolk County residents,” said District Attorney Tierney. “By establishing this real-time alert system, another vital tool has been created for law enforcement to respond swiftly to emergencies and potentially criminal activities on our waterways.”

“Our waterways can be even more dangerous than our roads, with unpredictable conditions, sudden weather changes, and inexperienced operators. Don’t make those risks worse by mixing in alcohol or not following the rules of the waterways,” said Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. “This holiday weekend and all summer, our Marine Patrol will be working closely with law enforcement partners to help ensure everyone can enjoy the water safely.”

“The ‘lone ranger’ days are over,” said Ed Michels, Chairman of the East End Marine Law Enforcement Task Force. “Our partnerships with all the East End law enforcement agencies, the Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office ensures that we must work together to achieve end results which bring better results to the people in Eastern Suffolk County.”

The Aqua Alert program, modeled after Amber Alerts for missing children and Silver Alerts for seniors, will provide real-time notifications about urgent maritime emergencies. These alerts will be broadcast directly to mobile devices through participating in Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) systems, delivering critical information to the public, such as descriptions of missing persons or vessels and their last known locations.

The program represents the latest collaborative effort of the East End Marine Law Enforcement Task Force, established in 2007 to coordinate marine law enforcement operations across Suffolk County’s five eastern towns. The District Attorney’s Office plays a crucial role in the EEMLETF, working alongside 16 other agencies to enforce maritime laws and prosecute violations.Public awareness and cooperation are key to the effectiveness of the Aqua Alert program and maritime enforcement efforts. The effectiveness of Aqua Alert depends on public awareness and cooperation. The program will help the Task Force to:

  •   Gather critical witness information for potential maritime crime investigations.
  •   Quickly identify and apprehend individuals operating vessels while intoxicated.
  •   Coordinate multi-agency responses to illegal activities on the water.
  •   Enhance prosecution efforts through improved evidence collection.
Increased Enforcement for Boating Safety

  • The District Attorney’s Office also announced increased enforcement of boating laws during the upcoming summer season, with special emphasis on:
  •   Operating vessels under the influence (BWI), the leading factor in fatal boating accidents.
  •   Proper safety equipment requirements, including life jackets for all passengers.
  •   Navigation rules and speed limits in crowded waterways.
  •   Illegal discharge of waste into protected waters.

The enhanced enforcement comes as US Coast Guard statistics show that in 2024, 75% of boating fatalities resulted from drownings and a significant portion of those drown victims, approximately 85%, were not wearing life jackets.As of January 1, 2025, Brianna’s Law requires all motorboat operators in New York State regardless of age, to complete a boater safety course. Brianna’s Law, named after 11-year-old Brianna Lieneck who was killed in a 2005 boating accident in Great South Bay, has been gradually phased in since 2020, with the final phase taking effect in January requiring certification for all operators.

The EEMLETF includes: The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, United States Coast Guard, NYS Police, NYS DEC Police, Plum Island Security, East Hampton Town Police, East Hampton Village Police, Quogue Village Police, Riverhead Town Police, Sag Harbor Police, Shelter Island Town Police, Southampton Town Police, Southampton Village Police, Southold Town Police, and Westhampton Beach Police.

For Maritime emergencies or to report suspicious activity, mariners should use VHF Channel 16 or call the Sector Long Island Sound Command Center at (866) 299-8031.

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From left, (standing) Chief of Department Sean Martin, Third Assistant Chief Ken Kowalchuk, Commissioner John Buchner, Commissioner Ken Staufer, Commissioner Hank Strong, Second Assistant Chief Jeremy Freund, (sitting) Councilwoman Jane Bonner, Commissioner Debra Handel, and New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio. Photo from Councilwoman Bonner's office
Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner and Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio joined local leaders, first responders, and residents in honoring the members of the Rocky Point Fire Department at their annual Installation Dinner held on Saturday, May 17th at Majestic Gardens in Rocky Point. The event marked the formal installation of the department’s 2025 officers and celebrated the continued dedication and service of the department’s firefighters and volunteers.
“It’s always a privilege to be with the brave men and women of the Rocky Point Fire Department,” said Councilwoman Bonner. “Their selfless commitment to protecting our community is truly inspiring, and this evening is a well-deserved recognition of their hard work.”
The Installation Dinner is a time-honored tradition that brings together the Rocky Point community in support of its fire and emergency medical services. The evening featured speeches, acknowledgments of years of service, and the swearing-in of newly appointed leadership within the department. Councilwoman Bonner expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the department for their ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and for the sacrifices they make every day in service to the community.

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A recent photo of Owl Hill. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office

Since 2016, Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta has worked tirelessly to preserve Smithtown’s unique Owl Hill estate and its 27 acres from being developed into multiple housing units. His efforts prevailed as Suffolk County purchased the entire parcel from the developer for $8.3million using money from the Suffolk County Drinking Water Protection Fund.

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta accepts the award for “Organization Excellence”
from Preservation Long Island’s Director Tara Cubie. Photo courtesy of PLI

The sprawling property is home to the 117-year-old, 6,500 square foot mansion designed by world-renowned American architect Henry Killam Murphy. Noted first patent attorney, Edmund Wetmore, commissioned Murphy to design it. Inside the mansion, there is an impressive mahogany staircase, mahogany floors and paneling; library; wood paneled dining room; eight bedrooms; music/living room; five bathrooms; kitchen; several fireplaces; basement, and much more. The dining room has an “owl” motif on the chairs, as well as the matching buffet. The grounds include stunning plants and mature trees, along with a garage and outer building.

On January 25, 2025, at its biennial awards ceremony, Preservation Long Island (PLI) awarded Legislator Trotta and Suffolk County with its biennial Preservation Award for “Organizational Excellence” for their efforts to preserve Owl Hill as a valuable resource in the community. Trotta is very committed to preserving the storied historic estate and adapting it for continued cultural and civic programs.

The public is invited to attend an “Open House” to see the property and “Owl Hill” on Saturday, May 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Owl Hill is located at 99 Sunken Meadow Road, Fort Salonga. For more information or questions, please call Legislator Trotta’s district office at 631-854-3900.

 

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The Smithtown Patriots (red) playing the Brookhaven Bluejays. Photo courtesy Supervisor Wehrheim’s office
The Smithtown Patriots (red) playing the Brookhaven Bluejays. Photo courtesy Supervisor Wehrheim’s office
The Smithtown Patriots (red) playing the Brookhaven Bluejays. Photo courtesy Supervisor Wehrheim’s office
The Smithtown Patriots (red) playing the Brookhaven Bluejays. Photo courtesy Supervisor Wehrheim’s office

The Town of Smithtown Senior Softball Team, Smithtown Patriots, kicked off their Opening Day game for the 2025 season on Thursday, May 8th. The Smithtown Patriots played the Brookhaven Bluejays at Flynn Memorial Park. Supervisor Ed Wehrheim and Councilman Tom Lohmann were in attendance to wish both teams good luck, a great season, and a memorable opening day. 

“It was a beautiful day for a ball game as the Smithtown Patriots took the field, bringing their skill, sportsmanship and unbeatable spirit to kick off a brand-new season. Flynn Memorial Park was filled with energy, laughter and the kind of camaraderie that makes our community so special. We were proud to host the Brookhaven Bluejays and even prouder to celebrate a game that  is timeless, much like our incredible senior leagues.”  said Wehrheim. 

Opening ceremonies began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for Patriot’s long-time teammate and dear friend, Christopher Revere Sr., who passed away on March 26. Richard Claxton, the Patriot’s team manager and player, referred to Revere as “the heart and soul of the team.” Just before the Patriots took the field for the top of the first inning, Supervisor Wehrheim threw out the ceremonial first pitch, enthusiastically declaring, “Play ball!”

The battle between the Patriots and Blujays ultimately ended in a draw, as each team won one of the two games played. The Smithtown Patriots Senior Softball Team is sponsored by the Smithtown Senior Citizens’ Department.

Interested in joining?

Eligible players must be at least 59 by the year’s end (2025) to join the team. The team plays doubleheaders on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The season starts in May and ends in August. Any interested participants should contact the Smithtown Senior Center at (631) 360-7616.

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The Forestwood Civic Association meeting on April 30. Photo by Sabrina Artusa
The Forestwood Civic Association meeting on April 30. Photo by Sabrina Artusa
The Forestwood Civic Association meeting on April 30. Photo by Sabrina Artusa

By Sabrina Artusa 

Residents of Forestwood continue to monitor changes to Blydenburgh County Park, which sits in the heart of their community. At a Forestwood Civic Association meeting, Suffolk County Chief Engineer Alexander Prego fielded questions regarding the design and timeline for a new dam, an essential step in the process of refilling Stump Pond.

The timeline for the lake, a signature characteristic of this national historic site and a major draw for hikers, fishers and kayakers, has been uncertain as county officials navigate permitting and funding. 

“Our goal is to build it back better,” Prego said. “That failure that occurred last fall — we need to make sure that we build it for more than that.” The failed dam was classified as Class A, or a low-hazard dam, where failure could result in damage to roads and undeveloped land with an unlikely risk of “substantial economic loss or substantial environmental damage.” The new dam will likely be Class B, or intermediate hazard, reflecting the reality of August’s storm and its potential for “downstream damage,” according to Suffolk County Department of Public Works Commissioner Charlie Bartha. The more “substantial” dam will require more periodic inspections from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. 

Blydenburgh is on a watershed, meaning the water from over 12,000 acres of land accumulated at the park. “We need to estimate how much water of that 12,000 will be coming in during a 25- or 100-year storm,“ Prego said. The new dam and spillway will be able to handle 225% of a 100-year storm. They installed five stream gauges to record rainfall and tide data. “We need to measure everything coming in here,” he said. 

In April, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R) released a document detailing the steps to be completed, which include permitting and inspections from several different departments such as the DEC and the New York State Historic Preservation Office. Prego said the county aims to have permitting and plans completed by the end of this year.

Of the $6.6 million of county money dedicated to rebuilding, the mapping, engineering planning and other analyses used $500,000. 

In addition, they plan to add a fish ladder to promote the migration of the American eel, brook trout and river otters. 

Forestwood residents expressed concern for trail accessibility for horses as well as the safety hazard posed by the soft, muddy surface of the empty lake. “What are you going to do to protect the pond area and at the same time protect the kids in our neighborhood?” one resident asked. 

The swamp-like crater was described as looking like “a breeding ground for mosquitoes” by one resident, who then asked how it is being treated. The county can use larvicide to eliminate mosquitoes before they hatch, said Suffolk County Council on Environmental Quality Vice Chair Michael Kaufman. 

Members of the Suffolk County Department of Parks were invited but were not present for the meeting. Forestwood civic President Robert Sikora called their absence “very disappointing.” 

“They should’ve been here,” he said. “This is a park discussion.” Indeed, several residents had questions about trail maintenance that did not fall into the purview of the public works department.

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Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin recently honored Walt Whitman High School Assistant Principal Dr. Scott Muller, who was named the 2025 New York State Assistant Principal of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS), in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

The award recognizes exceptional school leaders who go above and beyond to foster academic achievement, inclusive learning environments, and a strong sense of community.

From left, Legislator Donnelly, Legislator Bontempi, Dr. Muller, Legislator Sanin and Dr. D’Elia.

Dr. Muller has served as Assistant Principal at Walt Whitman High School for 19 years, where he is widely respected for his commitment to student success, his collaborative leadership style, and his tireless advocacy for students of all backgrounds. From supporting special education and English as a New Language (ENL) students to helping lead school spirit events and fundraisers, Dr. Muller has made a lasting impact on the South Huntington School District.

Originally on a path toward a career in medicine, Dr. Muller was inspired to pursue education by early experiences that sparked a lifelong passion for learning. He holds degrees from Binghamton University, Dowling College, Stony Brook University, and St. John’s University, and began his career as a science teacher at Deer Park High School before joining the South Huntington School District in 2006.

He was formally recognized at a statewide ceremony in Albany on May 2nd.

Legislator Sanin presented Dr. Muller with a county proclamation in recognition of his service and leadership, joined by her colleagues Legislator Tom Donnelly and Legislator Stephanie Bontempi, whose districts also encompass parts of the South Huntington School District.

“Dr. Muller’s unwavering dedication to his students and school community exemplifies the very best of educational leadership,” said Legislator Sanin. “It was a true honor to recognize him for this well-deserved achievement, and to celebrate the positive impact he continues to make in the lives of young people across Suffolk County.”

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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.

 

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Photo: Legislator Steve Englebright, left, congratulates Stephen, right, and Diane Weitzman, the Fifth Legislative District’s Jewish Americans of Distinction for 2025. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) recently recognized Stony Brook residents Stephen and Diane Weitzman as the Fifth Legislative District’s Jewish Americans of Distinction.

Legislator Englebright and his fellow legislators joined County Executive Ed Romaine (R) in honoring Jewish Americans of Distinction from all 18 Legislative Districts on Wednesday, May 7. The event, organized by Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-Centerport), was held in the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge.

The Weitzmans have been staples of Temple Isaiah in Stony Brook since 1980. According to Rabbi Emeritus Adam Fisher, “no couple has given more to our community.” He described the Weitzmans as the type of congregants who are right there to assist if something needs to be done.

Diane Weitzman was the financial secretary for the temple from 1986 to the end of last year, except for three years when she was a board trustee. She also taught religious instruction for more than 20 years.

Stephen Weitzman taught religious courses, including for adults, in the temple’s school for 43 years and served as interim principal three times. He has also been a member of the temple’s morning study group since its inception in 1989.

A temple board member from 1986 to 2001, Stephen served as congregational president three times. In addition to his contributions at Temple Isaiah, he was on the North American Board of the Union for Reform Judaism for 16 years and is a past president of the URJ Greater New York Council.

“The Weitzmans’ dedication to Temple Isaiah makes them a blessing to the congregation and their community,” Englebright said. “Stephen and Diane, congratulations on being named Legislative District 5’s Jewish Americans of Distinction.”

 

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Legislator Rebecca Sanin (right) with honoree Andrea Golinsky (center) and County Executive Ed Romaine (left). Photo courtesy of Leg. Sanin's office

At the Suffolk County Senior of the Year Award Ceremony, held at the H. Lee Dennison Building on May 15, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Andrea Golinsky as District 16’s 2025 nominee.

The event, hosted annually in May by the Suffolk County Office for the Aging, celebrates Older Americans Month by honoring seniors whose dedication and service have strengthened their communities.

“Andrea Golinsky is the embodiment of service and leadership,” said Legislator Sanin. “For more than 50 years, she has answered the call to serve others with courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment.”

Andrea has been a member of the Huntington Community First Aid Squad (HCFAS) since 1973, holding numerous leadership roles including Captain and Chief. A certified Crew Leader, Driver, and Advanced Life Support Provider, she is a cornerstone of Suffolk’s emergency medical services.

She has represented HCFAS as a Delegate to the Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs Association since 1983 and serves on the County’s Recruitment & Retention Committee. At the state level, she holds leadership positions in the New York State Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Association.

Beyond EMS, Andrea represents HCFAS on the Huntington Station Business Improvement District and has earned multiple honors, including the NYSVARA Leadership and Presidents Awards, and the New York State Assembly Woman of Distinction Award.

“Her legacy is one of lifesaving work, mentorship, and community impact,” Sanin said. “It’s a privilege to honor her today.”

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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. 

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