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Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin drops off clothing donations at Career Couture.

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin has announced the conclusion of a highly successful clothing drive to give Suffolk County residents the tools to get good-paying jobs.  Legislator Sanin spearheaded a community clothing drive to benefit the Suffolk County Department of Labor’s Career Couture Boutique in Hauppauge. This initiative, aimed at providing free professional attire to residents in need, collected an impressive total of over 2,000 individual clothing items thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the 16th Legislative District community.

“Career Couture provides residents with the tools to make a strong first impression during job interviews, empowering them on their path to success,” said Legislator Sanin. “This drive showcased the strength and compassion of our community, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who donated and supported this effort.”

The success of this community-driven initiative was made possible through partnerships with local organizations. Donation drop-off boxes were hosted by the Elwood, Commack, and South Huntington Public Libraries, whose efforts helped ensure widespread participation.

Joanne Albano, Assistant Director of the Commack Public Library, shared her enthusiasm for the collaboration: “The Commack Public Library was proud to participate as a drop-off point for Legislator Sanin’s extremely successful Career Couture Boutique clothing drive. We are always happy to partner with Legislator Sanin and look forward to many more successful events and partnerships.”

Andrew Salomon, Library Director of the Elwood Public Library, echoed these sentiments: “Thank you to Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin and her team for organizing this wonderful clothing drive. Thanks also to the Elwood Public Library staff for helping to implement the drive and the Suffolk County Department of Labor for operating the Career Couture Boutique. Most importantly, thanks to everyone who donated, particularly those within the Elwood Public Library community, for their exceptional generosity. We are so grateful for the opportunity to partner with our local elected officials, neighboring libraries, and local government entities to help better our community.”

Janet Scherer, Director of the South Huntington Public Library, added: “We extend our gratitude to Legislator Sanin for collaborating with the South Huntington Public Library on this impactful clothing drive. Thanks to the generosity of our community, numerous workplace-appropriate items were donated. This initiative is sure to empower many Suffolk County residents, boosting their confidence as they embark on their professional journeys.”

The Career Couture Boutique, operated by the Suffolk County Department of Labor, provides free professional clothing to Suffolk County residents, helping them make great first impressions at job interviews and gain confidence in their career pursuits. This effort is particularly significant as Long Island’s labor market continues to evolve. According to the New York State Department of Labor, Long Island’s private sector added 16,000 jobs over the past year, with significant growth in education and health services (+12,300 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (+6,600 jobs). By offering professional attire to job seekers, the clothing drive is directly supporting residents as they prepare to enter these growing industries and strengthen their career prospects.

Legislator Sanin extends her heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, donated, and supported the drive. This effort reflects the shared commitment of Suffolk County residents to supporting one another and strengthening the community.

For more information about the Career Couture Boutique or other community initiatives, please contact Legislator Sanin’s office at 631-854-5100.

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District Court judges are sworn in. Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Bar Association
Welcoming remarks by Pat McCormick. Photo from Suffolk County Bar Association
Hon. Andrew A. Crecca presides over the ceremony. Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Bar Association

The Suffolk County Bar Association’s Annual Judicial Swearing-In and Robing Ceremony was held on Monday, January 13 at the Van Nostrand Theatre of Suffolk County Community College’s Grant Campus in Brentwood. The ceremony was a formal induction of the eighteen newly elected and re-elected Suffolk County Supreme Court Justices, County Court Judges, Family Court Judges, and District Court Judges, who were welcomed with an incredible show of support from their colleagues, family and friends, and local dignitaries in this large auditorium. More than fifty of Suffolk’s judges – all donning their traditional black robes – were on hand to welcome their new colleagues.

The Honorable Andrew A. Crecca, District Administrative Judge, presided over the ceremony where each of the eighteen judges – a record number in Suffolk’s history – were individually honored by sponsors and officially took the oath of office. District Administrative Judge Crecca was himself one of the celebrated judges after he was re-elected in November to another term as Justice of the Supreme Court.

The Honorable Derrick J. Robinson (Ret.) delivered a powerful invocation and newly elected District Court Judge Hon. John B. Zollo sang a robust rendition of the National Anthem. The Chief Administrative Judge of the NYS Unified Court System, Hon. Joseph A. Zayas, was also in attendance and he addressed his colleagues: “We judges are blessed with an amazing vocation, where we actually are tasked with deciding what justice is and how are we going to dispense with it in every single case. It is one of the highest callings in all professions”, he said.

Patrick McCormick, Esq., President of the Suffolk County Bar Association, congratulated each of the members of the judiciary on their incredible accomplishment on behalf of the Association. Throughout the ceremony Mr. McCormick presented the judges with the long-standing tradition of their new black robes or ceremonial gavels for those who were re-elected.

Presented with their Judicial Robes: Hon. Alfred C. Graf, newly elected Supreme Court Justice, sponsored by his daughter Jean Mayer; Hon. Paul E. Hennings, newly elected Supreme Court Justice, sponsored by Patrick E. Byrne; Hon. Paul M. Hensley, newly elected Supreme Court Justice, sponsored by his wife Frances Radman Hensley; Hon. James F. Matthews, newly elected Supreme Court Justice, sponsored by Hon. Mark Cuthbertson, Huntington Councilman; Hon. Deanna D. Panico, newly elected Supreme Court Justice, sponsored by Peter Bee, Esq.; Hon. Peter R. McGreevy, newly elected County Court Judge, sponsored by Hon. Joseph A. Zayas, Chief Administrative Judge; Hon. Stuart P. Besen, newly elected Family Court Judge, sponsored by his children Stephanie and Alex; Hon. Christopher C. Brocato, newly elected Family Court Judge, sponsored by Richard Stafford, Esq.; Hon. Carl Copertino, newly elected Family Court Judge, sponsored by Joseph Barone, Esq.; Hon. Patricia M. Blake, newly elected District Court Judge, sponsored by Hon. Edward P. Romaine, County Executive; Hon. Paul L. Damato, newly elected District Court Judge, sponsored by his wife Rita and son Jimmy; Hon. Kenneth J. Lauri, newly elected District Court Judge, sponsored by Catherine Dominici, Esq.; Hon. Evan Tanenbaum, newly elected District Court Judge, sponsored by his father Hon. Melvyn Tanenbaum; Hon. John B. Zollo, newly elected District Court Judge, sponsored by Hon. Thomas W. Lohmann, Smithtown Councilman.

Presented with the Judicial Gavel: Hon. Andrew A. Crecca, re-elected District Administrative Judge, sponsored by his wife Donna J. Crecca; Hon. Philip Goglas, re-elected County Court Judge, sponsored by his son Philip Goglas, II; Hon. James A. McDonaugh, re-elected District Court Judge, sponsored by Brian Egan, Esq.; Hon. Eric Sachs, re-elected District Court Judge, sponsored by his children Taylor, Justin and Aidan.

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Photo courtesy of County Executive Romaine's office

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Suffolk County officials recently congratulated 20 local students who completed the Suffolk County Fire Academy’s Junior Firefighter Program.

The graduates, who serve as junior members for their local volunteer fire departments, completed the New York State Basic Exterior Fire Operations program that will give them a head start to fulfill the requirements to become an active firefighter once they reach the required age.

“Suffolk County is proud to revitalize the Junior Firefighter Program as we focus on creating new recruitment and retention initiatives within the local fire service,” said County Executive Romaine. “By engaging our young people and junior firefighters, we will ensure that our first responder agencies will have the necessary resources to serve our communities for years to come.”

The Junior Firefighter Program started at the end of August 2024. Students met with instructors from the Suffolk County Fire Academy and Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services for 15 weeks to learn about various firefighting topics, including building construction, fire dynamics and fire suppression.

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Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, right, is pictured with Eagle Scout Michael Canonic (center) and Suffolk County Legislator candidate Frank Black. Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta attended the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Michael Canonic, a junior at Kings Park High School. During his 16 years, he has had many challenges as he is deaf and learned to listen through a cochlear implant hearing aid from a young age. Although no one in Michael’s family works in the car repairbusiness, his goal is to open up his own auto body shop to repair vehicles damaged in accidents.

For his community service project, Michael designed and created an outdoor learning space located off of the library at the William T. Rogers Middle School in Kings Park.

“Becoming an Eagle Scout is a testament to your character and leadership skills and is something that you have accomplished while still a teenager. This recognition will stay with you for the rest of your life and can never be taken from you,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta. “What you have done is very impressive and we will expect great things from you in the future,” added Legislator Trotta.

 

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Legislators Sanin (middle), Richberg (middle-left), and Donnelly (middle-left) with the students and coaches of the Half Hollow Hills West High School Varsity Girls Volleyball team

During Dec. 17th’s General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin, joined by her colleagues Legislators Jason Richberg and Thomas Donnelly, proudly recognized the Half Hollow Hills West High School Varsity Girls Volleyball Team for their extraordinary achievements during the 2024 season. The recognition ceremony took place in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

The team was celebrated for their remarkable performance throughout the season, culminating in a hard-fought victory in the NYSPHSAA Class AA Championship. Their thrilling five-set win over Fayetteville-Manlius in Glens Falls exemplified the true meaning of resilience, teamwork, and determination—qualities that helped propel them to the top of their game and secure the championship title.

“The Half Hollow Hills West Varsity Girls team has demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and the value of working together toward a common goal,” said Legislator Sanin. “This championship win is not just a triumph for the players, but for the entire community that rallied behind them. We are beyond proud of your achievements.”

Legislator Sanin also commended the dedicated coaches, Head Coach Nils Haugen and Assistant Coaches Diana Migliozzi and William Flohr, for their countless hours of hard work, practice, and preparation. “These coaches have not only shaped these athletes into champions but have also inspired everyone here at the Legislature and the entire Suffolk County community,” she said.

The ceremony celebrated the team’s exceptional qualities of perseverance, leadership, and teamwork, which defined their outstanding performance throughout the season. Their hard work has not only earned them a championship title but also made them a source of pride for the entire Suffolk County community.

“This honor goes beyond just winning a championship,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “It’s about recognizing a group of young athletes who exemplify dedication, unity, and the pursuit of excellence. You’ve set an inspiring example for us all. Congratulations on a season to remember!”

Legislators Sanin, Donnelly, and Richberg presented a proclamation to the team, formally acknowledging their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they’ve had on the community.

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Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine
By Ed Romaine, Suffolk County Executive

After 12 years as the Brookhaven Town Supervisor, in 2023 I decided to run for Suffolk County Executive to make our county safer and more affordable and to restore professionalism to every county department.

Good governance is about doing what’s right for taxpayers and employees, and that’s exactly what we’ve focused on since I have taken office.

Fiscally, we are on the right road, and our efforts have been recognized. The county’s 2024 budgeting has earned Suffolk two bond ratings and three credit rating upgrades as of early December.

As promised, we’ve brought new leadership to the Suffolk County Police Department, hired 200 new officers, and added 50 new detectives to tackle crime across the county. New leadership has put the department on track for continued success, and my administration will provide what our law enforcement agencies need to protect our communities.

The Department of Social Services was in crisis when I took office. Poor management, low staffing, and tragic incidents resulted in Suffolk County being among the worst-performing DSS operations in New York State. For example, Suffolk was last among counties processing SNAP applications, which provide people in need with food. Due to new leadership and a complete overhaul of DSS operations, Suffolk is now the best in New York State.

New call center policies have reduced SNAP wait times by more than 95%, boosted employee morale, and decreased caseloads. While there is still work to be done, especially in filling the over 1,000 open positions, we’re making real progress.

To address these vacancies, we launched the “Suffolk is Hiring” campaign, meeting job seekers where they are—on social media, at college campuses, and at job fairs. This proactive approach shifts from reactive to addressing problems before they become crises.

When I took office, many county buildings were in terrible shape—leaky roofs, broken systems, and general neglect. These buildings belong to the taxpayers and house our dedicated workforce. We’ve made it a priority to bring these spaces up to standard, both for the employees and the public who rely on these services.

Here are just a few of the results our taxpayers are already seeing:

  • 246 acres of land preserved—a significant increase from previous years, thanks to reforms in the Department of Economic Planning that streamlined the process.
  • Sewer projects funded in Smithtown, Wyandanch, Wheatley Heights, Deer Park, the Forge River, and Southwest Sewer Districts. These projects are critical for protecting our environment and revitalizing downtown areas.
  • $56 million invested in public safety equipment, ensuring our police and first responders are better equipped to keep our communities safe.
  • Major improvements to county parks planned for 2025, offering enhanced recreational spaces for families.
  • Micro transit zones to improve connectivity on the East End, making it easier for residents to access essential services and work opportunities.

None of this would be possible without the incredible team I have by my side. Together, we are committed to making Suffolk County safer, more affordable, and a place where every resident can thrive.

I look forward to continuing this important work next year and wish all of you a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

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Legislator Bontempi with Suffolk County Veteran of the Year honoree Eugene Leavy.

Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-18th L.D.)  recognized Eugene Leavy as the Suffolk County Veteran of the Year for the 18th Legislative District during the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting on November 26. Leavy, a resident of East Northport, is a United States Army veteran who served heroically during World War II. The occasion was made even more special as it also marked Eugene’s 99th birthday, which the audience celebrated by singing “Happy Birthday.”

Leavy was a member of the 100th Infantry Division and fought courageously in the Ardennes Offensive, widely known as the Battle of the Bulge. For five grueling weeks during the harsh winter, Eugene and his fellow soldiers endured overwhelming odds as they defended the critical 80-mile American defensive line in the Ardennes Forest, despite being outnumbered and under-equipped. For his bravery, Leavy earned a Combat Infantryman Badge, three campaign ribbons, and the prestigious Bronze Star, awarded after he risked his life to deliver a map and a critical message under heavy enemy fire. By the end of his service, he had attained the rank of Sergeant.

Following the war, Eugene lived in Germany with his wife, a German native, for two years. While there, he worked with the Army Military Government to prevent former Nazi officials from occupying positions of influence. Upon returning to the United States, Eugene and his wife settled down and raised two children.

Even at 99 years old, Eugene continues to inspire those around him. A licensed pilot, he still enjoys flying and often shares his firsthand accounts of World War II with local high school students, offering invaluable lessons on history and sacrifice. He is also a proud grandfather to three grandchildren and a great-grandfather to nine.

“Eugene Leavy embodies the true meaning of service, sacrifice, and resilience,” said Legislator Bontempi. “His contributions during World War II, his commitment to rebuilding in its aftermath, and his dedication to educating future generations are nothing short of extraordinary. It is an honor to recognize him as Legislative District 18’s Suffolk County Veteran of the Year, and I thank him for his enduring service to our country and community. I’d like to also extend my congratulations to all the other district’s honorees and thank them for their service.”

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Scene from the Nonprofit Volunteer Opportunities Fair. Courtesy Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin’s office
Scene from the Nonprofit Volunteer Opportunities Fair. Courtesy Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin’s office

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin (D-Huntington Station,) in partnership with Walt Whitman High School, hosted the first annual Nonprofit Volunteer Opportunities Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 20, bringing together more than 20 nonprofit organizations — including Spirit of Huntington Art Center, Splashes of Hope and Island Harvest — and over 1,000 high school students eager to give back to their community.

Students in grades 9-12 had the opportunity to explore volunteer opportunities with nonprofits spanning diverse causes, from food pantries to environmental advocacy groups. The participating organizations collectively received more than 1,000 volunteer signups, reflecting the enthusiasm and civic spirit of Suffolk County’s youth.

“Bringing together these incredible organizations and the students at Walt Whitman High School is an important step in fostering a culture of service and engagement,” said Sanin, who spearheaded the event. “I’m proud to have organized this fair as a way to connect our future leaders with the nonprofits that do such vital work in our communities. Events like this demonstrate the power of collaboration and the strength of our shared commitment to giving back.”

The fair was held in celebration of Nonprofit Volunteer Appreciation Month, which was officially designated by Legislator Sanin’s legislation, Intro. Res. No. 1463-2024. Passed unanimously by the Suffolk County Legislature on June 25, 2024, the resolution recognizes the indispensable role nonprofits and volunteers play in strengthening Suffolk County.

“This event is a perfect example of what Nonprofit Volunteer Appreciation Month is all about — shining a light on the essential work of nonprofits and inspiring others to get involved,” Sanin added. “I’m grateful to Walt Whitman High School for their partnership and to the organizations who joined us to make this fair such a success.”

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Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine

By Lisa Scott

Federal priorities and legislation will be markedly different in 2025. Donald Trump received 55% of Suffolk County votes for President, and both CD1 and CD2 Republican members of Congress were re-elected. (CD3 includes a very small part of northwestern Huntington, and re-elected their Democratic member of Congress). As we move through the coming year, it will be very important to stay in touch with your Congressional representative and express your opinions. If you are not sure of your CD or other elected officials, go to https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ and all your representative districts will be listed.

However, much of what affects our day-to-day lives is determined by New York State, Suffolk County and the 10 Towns that comprise Suffolk so our focus for 2025 should be familiarizing ourselves with local issues  and finances, and making our voices heard on these local levels. 

Suffolk County (according to the 2020 census) has a population of 1.5 million (578,940 households), with a 2024 Operating Budget Revenue of $5.172 billion and 2024 Operating Budget Expenditures of $4.133 billion. The taxable full valuation of property in the county is $405.5 billion. 

Revenue comes from property taxes, sales tax, state aid, federal aid, and other sources. The revenue stream included in the budget is only an estimate of the amounts that can be anticipated. If retail sales fall, the 8.625% sales tax yield will not be as great as anticipated. Similarly, if homeowners and business owners do not promptly pay their property tax, there is a shortfall. The county may borrow money in anticipation of receiving this revenue; therefore, debt service may be required because of this borrowing. 

Expenditures are for personnel, debt service, and a wide variety of services, such as police, education and economic assistance. About 39% of the $4.1 billion budget is mandated by various state and federal government programs, such as Medicaid, which restricts the freedom of the county to apportion expenditures. The remainder is “discretionary.”

Suffolk County’s proposed 2025 budget includes a tax increase for most homeowners, expected to average about $49 per home in Huntington, Smithtown and Brookhaven. The increase resulted from a shortfall in expected sales tax receipts, about $50 million less this year than what was projected, pension costs went up by about $43 million and health care costs went up by $66 million. Also Suffolk voters approved a clean water proposition in 2024; sales taxes will increase in March from 8.625% to 8.75%  (about 12 cents on a $100 purchase or $1.25 on a $1,000 purchase). 

Ed Romaine is our Suffolk County Executive ([email protected]) elected for a 4 year term. Other elected county-wide offices include Comptroller John M. Kennedy Jr.  ([email protected]), Clerk Vincent Puleo ([email protected]), District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney ([email protected]) and Sheriff Errol Toulon, Jr. (suffolk.sheriff@suffolkcounty ny.gov). 

There also is an 18 member Suffolk County Legislature, serving 2 year elected terms (term is limited to 12 years in office for all legislators). To find your SC Legislative District, go to https://www.scnylegislature.us/ and click on Find Your Representative. Then read up on your county legislator, find out what their priorities are and whether those are your priorities too. The General and committee meeting schedules are on the website, along with meeting minutes.

There are 13 committees which meet the week before each general (monthly) meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature to discuss proposed bills and issues and decide what moves forward to the full legislature. For example, the Veterans committee and Environment, Parks & Agriculture meet on Monday mornings, Economic Development, Planning and Housing on Wednesday afternoons and Public Safety on Thursday mornings. 

Since there are 10 Towns in Suffolk, and many incorporated Villages, there are other levels of representation, ordinances and codes. Concerned citizens need to navigate these levels and establish relationships with all your elected officials, so that when a question or issue arises, you are aware of which level of government has responsibility. Remember that elected officials work for YOU, and if you do not communicate clearly and responsibly your message will not receive the attention and response it deserves. 

To learn more about those who represent Suffolk County residents on every level of government and how to reach them, the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County issues an annual Directory of Public Officials in March, available online and as a pdf in English and in Spanish at https://my.lwv.org/new-york/suffolk-county.

Lisa Scott is president of the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. For more information, visit https//my.lwv.org/new-york/suffolk-county.

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Photo courtesy of Councilwoman Bonner's office
On November 30, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner (third from left), New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (left) and Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (right) were guests at the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for new Eagle Scout, Carrie Davis (second from left) from Troop 2019.  She is the second young lady in the troop to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.
For her Eagle Scout project, Carrie built bee houses at Cedar Beach in Mt. Sinai (next to her brother Larry’s Eagle Scout project) to support local pollinators, contribute to the health of the environment and enhance the community’s natural resources. Carrie also earned 20 additional merit badges while excelling in both school and sports—a testament to her determination, leadership, and character.
“I commend Carrie for the work that she has done to attain the rank of Eagle Scout. Her leadership qualities, hard work and dedication to the community set a great example for her peers to follow. I look forward to all the great things that she will accomplish in the future,” said Councilwoman Bonner.
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