Pictured at Troop 888’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor are Suffolk County Legislator Rob
Trotta, (center), Eagle Scouts Douglas Antaky, Sean Bauer, Tyler Liebold, Michael K.
Power and Anthony Zitoli.
Five scouts earned the rank of Eagle Scout at a ceremony at the American Legion Hall in Smithtown on November 30. Celebrating their achievement were Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, family, friends and fellow scouts and scout leaders, and other guests.
Douglas Antaky refurbished the playground at Sweetbriar Nature Center and built a new zipline platform, added a child safety zipline with handles and a seat and built a seesaw to replace the damaged one for his Eagle Scout Community Service Project.
For his project, Sean Bauer designed and planted a memorial garden at Angela’s House in Smithtown, a home for medically frail children. His brother Nicky has epilepsy and autism and has benefited from their support. Sean raised funds by selling a cookbook with recipes from family, friends and scouts.
Tyler Liebold renovated the deck hockey rink at St. Pat’s, which included removing a planter and installing brick pavers, changing and painting a door and siding on a storage shed, and installing pavers outside of the shed. Tyler’s project was a labor of love as he played hockey here from first grade until 11th grade.
Michael K. Power’s Eagle Scout project benefited both the staff and students at Ascent, a school for individuals with autism. For the staff, he built a lectern and bookcases, and he raised the garden beds and bought gardening tools for the students to learn how to garden.
Anthony Zitoli also did his project at the Sweetbriar Nature Center where he restored several picnic tables and benches by replacing the wood, sanding it and staining the furniture.
At the ceremony, Legislator Trotta presented each Eagle Scout with a proclamation recognizing their achievement of the rank of Eagle Scout. “This is a very proud moment for these young men, and this accomplishment will be with them for the rest of their lives,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
Caption:
Pictured at Troop 888’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor are Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, (center), Eagle Scouts Douglas Antaky, Sean Bauer, Tyler Liebold, Michael K. Power and Anthony Zitoli.
Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright named David Tracy Veteran of the Year for the county’s Fifth Legislative District. Photo from Steve Englebright’s office
Suffolk County legislators honored veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces at the Legislature’s General Meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 26. During the meeting, each of the 18 legislators introduced a veteran as their district’s Veteran of the Year.
Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) chose Stony Brook resident David Tracy, a United States Marine Corps Corporal, to honor.
Tracy’s commitment to making our world a better place has been his mission since joining the Marines in 2003. He served for four years, and during the Global War on Terror, he completed two tours of duty in Iraq. Tracy’s service was not without personal sacrifice, as he was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining an injury during his first tour.
Since 2010, Tracy has continued his commitment to protecting his fellow Americans as a Law Enforcement Officer with the Department of Homeland Security.
Tracy, who lives in Stony Brook with his wife, Becky, and son, Sean, has become a familiar face in his community as the founder and chairman of the Three Village Dads Foundation. Since 2019, the foundation has raised approximately $400,000 for local causes, including $100,000 donated to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and $15,000 pledged to the Long Island State Veterans Home. Recently, foundation members refurbished the outside area of the historic Merritt-Hawkins Homestead in East Setauket and are now the house’s stewards.
Englebright said he recently toured the homestead with Tracy. He added that he was impressed by the interpretive narrative the veteran had composed for permanent signage now installed at the historic site.
“It’s really noteworthy,” he said. “David Tracy has thoughtfully researched the significant aspects and features of the old growth woodland and Vernal pond parkland that this historic residence is embedded into.”
Additionally, Tracy serves as the quartermaster of VFW Post 3054 in Setauket and is a former trustee of the Three Village Historical Society and Three Village Community Trust.
“It is wonderful that today we have an opportunity to honor David Tracy’s many accomplishments and contributions,” Englebright said. “Thank you for your good work.”
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces from across Suffolk County were honored for their service and sacrifice in helping to protect our freedom and liberty. Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced a veteran as “Veteran of the Year” from their district at Tuesday’s General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.
Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State and has one of the largest veterans’ populations of any county in the United States.
“Today’s recognition of our veterans is the least we can do for their vital role in protecting our freedom and liberty,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey. “My colleagues and I are proud to celebrate the inspiring commitment of these men and women who have significantly contributed to their communities and our Nation. By publicly commemorating their achievements, Suffolk County reaffirms its gratitude and respect for those who have served in the Armed Forces, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices remain a lasting part of our County’s and our Nation’s legacy.
“From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Christopher M. Geackel of Lindenhurst, who retired from the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant in 2006 after 23 years of service. Among his awards, Chris received three Commendation Medals, five Air Force Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals; and was named the Community College of the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer and Athletic Warrior of the Year.”
“As a member of Wade-Burns VFW Post 7279 for 17 years, Chris has served as both Post Commander and Suffolk County Commander. He serves as coordinator of the Village of Lindenhurst Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and regularly visits the Long Island State Veterans Home and VA Hospital, to provide clothing, birthday cake, gifts, and vouchers to fellow veterans. He is a truly a shining example of selfless service,” said McCaffrey.
November is a somber and celebratory month for veterans, including as it does Veterans Day on November 11th – where ceremonies mark “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in honor of the men and women who have served our nation – as well as the US Marine Corps birthday on November 10th.
LD Legislator Veteran and Rank Branch Residence:
1 Catherine Stark — Michael Mundy US Marine Corps Shelter Island, Lance Corporal
2 Ann Welker — Bob Grisnik US Air Force Southampton, Colonel
3 Jim Mazzarella — Enrico ‘Rick’ Rossi US Navy Shirley, Seaman
4 Nick Caracappa — Frank Sanzone US Air Force Selden, Master Sergeant
5 Steve Englebright — David Tracy US Marine Corps Stony Brook Corporal
6 Chad Lennon — Joe Cognitore US Army Rocky Point, Platoon Sergeant & Platoon Leader
7 Dominick Thorne — Walter Maresco US Air Force Medford, Airman First Class
8 Anthony Piccirillo — William Borthwick US Army Oakdale, Specialist 4
9 Sam Gonzalez — Dr. Jaime Marcos US Marine Corps Bay Shore, Sergeant
10 Trish Bergin — Christopher J. Hirsch US Army Hauppauge, Specialist Fifth Class
11 Steve Flotteron — William F. Murray US Army Bay Shore, Specialist Fourth Class
12 Leslie Kennedy — Grace Mehl US Navy Smithtown, Commander
13 Rob Trotta — Marty Thompson US Navy Saint James, Senior Chief Petty Officer
14 Kevin McCaffrey — Christopher M. Geackel US Air Force Lindenhurst, Master Sergeant
15 Jason Richberg — Charles ‘Chuck’ Vinciulla US Navy Amityville, Corpsman
16 Rebecca Sanin — Santiago Mejia US National Guard Huntington Station, Staff Sergeant
17 Tom Donnelly — Charlie Armstrong US Air Force South Huntington, Sergeant
18 Stephanie Bontempi — Eugene Leavy US Army East Northport, Sergeant
More information on each honoree can be found on the Suffolk County Legislature’s website at the following link:
Legislators Sanin (front-right), Bontempi (back-right), and Donnelly (front-left) with the students and coaches of the Walt Whitman High School Boys Varsity Soccer team
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Legislators Sanin (front-right), Bontempi (back-right), and Donnelly (front-left) with the students and coaches of the Walt Whitman High School Boys Varsity Soccer team
Legislator Sanin (at podium) addresses WWHS Boys Varsity Soccer team
At the Nov. 26 General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin, joined by her colleagues Legislators Stephanie Bontempi and Thomas Donnelly, proudly honored the Walt Whitman High School Varsity Boys Soccer Team in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.
The team was recognized for their outstanding accomplishments during the 2024 season, including winning the Suffolk County AAA Championship and the Long Island Class AAA Championship and advancing to the semifinals of the New York State AAA Class Tournament. Their remarkable performance has solidified their place as one of the best teams in both Long Island and New York State.
“The Walt Whitman Varsity Boys Soccer Team exemplifies the very best of Suffolk County’s student-athletes,” said Legislator Sanin. “This season was a testament to their skill, teamwork, and dedication, and they’ve inspired our community with their incredible achievements on and off the field. We are so proud of each of you.”
Legislator Sanin also commended the team’s coaching staff, including Head Coach John DiGiacomo and assistant coaches Brian Karcz, Robert Tedesco, Nicholas Costa, and Brayan Portillo, for their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.
The celebration highlighted the team’s ability to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and collaboration throughout the season, making them a source of pride for the entire Suffolk County community.
“This recognition is about more than championships,” Legislator Sanin added. “It’s about celebrating a group of young leaders who embody what it means to work hard, support one another, and strive for greatness. Congratulations on an unforgettable season!”
Legislators Sanin, Donnelly, and Bontempi presented a proclamation to the Walt Whitman Varsity Boys Soccer Team to commemorate their achievements and acknowledge their contributions to the community.
Legislator Sanin with District 16 Veteran of the Year Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia
At the November General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia of the National Guard as the 16th Legislative District’s 2024 “Veteran of the Year.” The ceremony, held on November 26 in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building, celebrated veterans from each of Suffolk County’s 18 legislative districts.
“Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia represents the best of Suffolk County’s veteran community,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “His 16 years of dedicated service, not only to our nation but also to his fellow soldiers, exemplify leadership, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to service that strengthens our communities and our country.”
Staff Sergeant Mejia’s contributions are profound. As an Equal Opportunity officer in the Army National Guard, he has provided critical support to soldiers in need, including instances where his actions have saved lives. His advocacy extends to fostering opportunities for others, as evidenced by his tireless work assisting 11 fellow soldiers in achieving U.S. citizenship. Overcoming language barriers and navigating complex processes, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s mentorship made their dreams of citizenship a reality.
Beyond his official duties, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s impact has been recognized with the President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award for his 100 hours of overseas service. His talents as a photographer have also brought comfort to soldiers, capturing and preserving moments that connect them to their loved ones back home.
“Staff Sergeant Mejia’s actions inspire all of us to lead with compassion and dedication,” said Legislator Sanin. “His service not only reflects the highest standards of military honor but also enriches the lives of everyone he touches. Suffolk County is privileged to count him among our own.”
Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State, with one of the largest veteran communities in the nation. The annual “Veteran of the Year” recognition underscores the county’s commitment to honoring those who have served and sacrificed to protect freedom and liberty.
After an extended vote-counting process, Rebecca Kassay has defeated incumbent Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson). Official results and certification are expected from the Board of Elections in the coming weeks. As of now, Kassay is leading Flood by 813 votes.
Kassay released a statement on her Facebook page Tuesday, Nov. 26, declaring victory in the race for New York State Assembly District 4. She wrote, “After a spirited campaign, I am declaring victory in the race for New York State Assembly District 4, having secured an insurmountable lead over my opponent, Ed Flood. Official results and certification are expected from the Board of Elections in the coming weeks.”
Kassay added, “I am heartened by our community’s trust in me to bring public service back to politics. It will be a great honor to represent District 4 in the New York State Assembly and to deliver resources to our communities. As discussed during civic debates and at residents’ doors throughout my campaign, I will serve with a community-up approach — one that prioritizes transparency, communication and meaningful action on pressing issues.”
Assemblywoman-elect Kassay has already begun laying the groundwork to ensure she and her team “hit the ground running and serve the district effectively on day one.”
“Throughout the coming weeks, I will be meeting with civic groups, school district representatives, nonprofits, first responders, local government officials and other community stakeholders to collaborate on the important work of shaping the projects and policies that will guide the district forward,” the statement continued.
Kassay invites residents or groups to connect with the incoming District 4 Assembly team by emailing [email protected].
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R), District Attorney Ray Tierney (R), Legislator Trish Bergin (R-East Islip) and Department of Social Services (DSS) officials have unveiled sweeping reforms to the county’s Child Protective Services (CPS) system in response to the tragic Thomas Valva case.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. File photo
Under Romaine’s leadership, Suffolk County DSS has implemented measures aimed at improving services, enhancing interagency collaboration and focusing on the needs of vulnerable populations. The changes also promote open communication among stakeholders involved in social services.
“We took swift and significant action to reform the Suffolk County Department of Social Services to ensure that children in CPS are truly protected,” Romaine said. “We’ve allocated funds to fill vacancies, improve services, reform processes and ensure better training. These efforts will help prevent tragedies like the one experienced by Thomas Valva.”
District Attorney Tierney emphasized the importance of ensuring accountability. “We must never allow a tragedy like Thomas Valva’s to happen again,” he said. “I am proud of the work of the task force, in partnership with the new administration and Legislature, to enact the recommendations from the Grand Jury Report.”
Legislator Bergin echoed these sentiments, noting, “It was critical that the grand jury report not gather dust. We’ve worked diligently to implement necessary changes and ensure such a tragedy is never repeated.”
Key reforms to child protective services:
Quality improvements recognized by New York State
The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) 2024 Program Quality Improvement Review reported substantial progress in Suffolk County’s CPS, Preventative/Protective Services and Foster Care systems. Many categories achieved a 100% compliance rate, reflecting the county’s renewed commitment to better serve families.
Implementation of blind removal policy
Suffolk County now uses a blind removal policy for CPS cases requiring a child’s removal from their family. This process excludes personal and demographic information about the child and family during decision-making, reducing potential biases.
Relocation of CPS abuse teams
CPS caseworkers investigating child abuse cases will relocate to the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) in Central Islip in December. The move allows caseworkers to collaborate closely with law enforcement and attorneys during investigations.
Interagency training initiatives
Since March 2024, DSS has conducted training sessions on child protection, trauma-informed care, forensic interviewing and multidisciplinary approaches to child abuse investigations. These sessions include participation from CPS staff, Suffolk County Police and legal professionals.
Legal training enhancements
In partnership with the County Attorney’s Office, DSS has improved training for handling sensitive abuse and neglect cases. This initiative strengthens collaboration between caseworkers and legal representatives.
Integration of adult protective services
In September 2024, Adult Protective Services (APS) was reintegrated into the Family and Children’s Services Division. This change enhances collaboration between APS and CPS, particularly for developmentally disabled youths transitioning to adult services.
Specialized training for disabilities
More than 170 DSS employees have completed training at Daemen College, focusing on understanding and addressing the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Topics included autism, ADHD and other conditions.
Multidisciplinary training
DSS, in collaboration with state and county partners, is expanding training for frontline workers to better serve children, adults with disabilities and older adults. Training emphasizes skills for investigating, prosecuting and protecting vulnerable populations.
Supervisor training
DSS is enhancing training for supervisory staff to develop a family-centered clinical model. This approach provides middle management with advanced decision-making tools and support for caseworkers.
Improved safety and security
DSS is equipping over 600 employees with a panic button app to instantly connect with emergency services, enhancing staff safety during high-stress situations.
Support for staff wellbeing
To combat burnout and compassion fatigue, DSS is offering additional support services to employees managing trauma from child welfare cases.
Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright thanked Joan Nickeson for her extensive volunteer work at an event on Nov. 19. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office
At a Nov. 19 event held at the Suffolk County Legislature building in Hauppauge, all 18 legislators recognized a nonprofit volunteer from their districts.
Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) honored Joan Nickeson for her volunteer efforts, particularly with the Cumsewogue Historical Society, (the historical society uses the traditional spelling of “Cumsewogue” to honor the area’s Native American roots,) as well as the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce.
“Some constituents reinforce our sense of place through their demonstrative commitment to the things that make and define our communities, and Joan Nickeson, a prolific volunteer, is an example of such a person,” Englebright said. “She is one of the reasons that the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville community has so much heart.”
Nickeson, president of the Cumsewogue Historical Society, was a founding member of the nonprofit in 2009 and helped restructure the organization in recent years.Through presentations and Q&As, the society preserves the history of the area, which includes Port Jefferson Station and Terryville, fostering a sense of place for residents.
For more than five years, Nickeson has served as the community liaison director and recording secretary for the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce. She organizes activities such as fundraisers, summer concerts, ribbon-cuttings and holiday events.
Recently, Nickeson received the Volunteer of the Year Award from Literacy Suffolk for her work as a language-level tester for students.
Nickeson is also involved with Old Town Blooms, assisting with community planting projects, including bulb plantings along Old Town Road. In 2012, she was named The Port Times Record’s Environmentalist of the Year for her work with the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Civic Association’s Beautification Committee. Her efforts with the committee included collaborating with the Town of Brookhaven to expand the Terryville Greenbelt conservation area around Comsewogue High School.
Englebright described Nickeson as a “hometown hero” during the event and thanked her for her community service.
“Joan, through your personal example you have made us all proud of where we live,” Englebright said. “You have proven time and time again that you are an asset to our community and our county.”
County Legislator Steven J. Flotteron (R-LD-11.) Courtesy www.facebook.com/steveflotteron
Suffolk County Legislator and Deputy Presiding Officer Steven J. Flotteron (R-LD-11) commended his colleagues for their collaborative work in revising and approving the County Executive’s 2025 operating budget last week. Flotteron, who chaired the Operating Budget Working Group, said the changes reflect bipartisan priorities and sound fiscal planning.
The amended $4 billion budget does not alter the overall fiscal balance but adjusts spending and revenue by $8.3 million. This includes a $1 million reduction in 2024 and a $9.3 million increase in 2025 offset by higher projected revenue for both years.
“County Executive Romaine’s budget was fair and responsible,” Flotteron said. “It addressed our needs without relying on the financial gimmicks used in the past.”
Flotteron noted that previous budgets leaned on unreliable revenue sources referred to as “one-shots” and overly optimistic projections. He credited the County Executive for improving Suffolk’s financial standing which has already earned two bond rating upgrades this year. “This reflects the same approach he used in Brookhaven where he raised the town’s bond rating to triple-A,” Flotteron said.
The Legislature unanimously approved the budget changes which fixed overstated revenue, corrected understated expenses and addressed technical errors. The budget also added funding for legal aid, health facility maintenance, recreation programs, contracted agencies and legislative equipment. It included funding tied to Tax Anticipation Notes and capital projects funded by the Vanderbilt endowment.
The Legislature’s Budget Review Office adjusted revenue projections increasing the 2024 sales tax estimate and raising expected interest and earnings in 2025 to cover the net cost of these changes. The budget also distributed Hotel/Motel tax revenue to various agencies.
Flotteron highlighted the challenges of crafting a budget under tight constraints. “Staying under New York State’s 2% property tax cap is even more impressive given rising pension costs, higher health insurance and prescription drug expenses and the loss of $8 million from red light camera revenue,” he said.
He said the budget prioritizes public safety including hiring new police officers, improving cybersecurity after the 2022 ransomware attack and investing in employee recruitment and retention.
“This budget reflects our commitment to public safety, maintaining a strong workforce and supporting vital community services,” Flotteron said. “With two bond rating upgrades already this year, Suffolk County is heading in the right direction.”
Long Island Cares, PSEG Long Island and the Suffolk County Veteran Service Agency are teaming up to make Thanksgiving a bit more special for Suffolk County veterans.
On Thursday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Suffolk County veterans can claim a free turkey and Thanksgiving basket at a Drive Through event scheduled at the H. Lee Dennison Building, at 100 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge.
Veterans must show identification confirming their Veteran status & Suffolk County residency. Pre-Registration is required by clicking here.
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