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Photo courtesy of LI Ducks
Suffolk County Ballpark receives new field, mound, bullpens and outfield wall

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Long Island Ducks team officials have announced the completion of a new turf field installation at Fairfield Properties Ballpark, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip, home of the Atlantic League ball club. The new FieldTurf playing surface, installed by local supplier LandTek, will begin to be utilized this April for the Ducks 25th Anniversary Season on Long Island.

“This Capital Improvement is part of the ongoing effort by the County of Suffolk to update County buildings while keeping Fairfield Properties Ballpark operating at the highest professional level in partnership with the Long Island Ducks,” said Romaine. “The new turf field will improve efficiency greatly, save millions of gallons of water per year, and be more environmentally friendly, eliminating the need for fertilizer and chemicals on the playing surface in future seasons.”

The field renovation included full replacement of the entire playing surface, pitching mound, bullpens and padded outfield wall. With the conversion to an artificial surface, the Ducks are now the eighth team in the 10-team Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, a Partner League of Major League Baseball, to convert to turf.

“Keeping our ballpark atop the list of favored destinations for Major League players looking to continue their careers is important,” said Ducks President/Chief Business Officer Michael Pfaff. “This project, along with our commitment to keeping ticket prices affordable and parking free, allow us to continue to deliver on our promise of providing the most fun, fan friendly and affordable entertainment experience on Long Island for many years to come.”

The Ducks open the 2025 regular season, presented by Catholic Health, on Friday, April 25, against the Lancaster Stormers. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m., with the Fairfield Properties Ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). Tickets for all Ducks games are now available and can be purchased by visiting the ballpark box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX or going online to LIDucks.com.

The Long Island Ducks are entering their 25th Anniversary season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip, N.Y. They are the all-time leader in wins and attendance in Atlantic League history, have led all MLB Partner Leagues in total attendance for four consecutive seasons, and have sold out a record 713 games all-time. For further information, visit LIDucks.com or call 631-940-DUCK (3825).

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

Celebrating its third decade, the Atlantic League is Major League Baseball’s first Professional Partner League, a player gateway to the Major Leagues, and a leader in baseball innovation. Over its 26-year history, the ALPB has sent over 1,400 players to MLB organizations while drawing over 47 million fans to its 10 family-friendly ballparks that stretch from New York to North Carolina. Please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.

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Legislator Bontempi, center, visits with People's Arc of Suffolk employees and program participants at the Performing Arts Center in Northport. Photo from People's Arc of Suffolk.

People’s Arc of Suffolk was recently cited by Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi as the 2025 “Champions of Diversity” for the 18th Legislative District, for its new and innovative Performing Arts Center located in Northport. This accolade celebrates the center’s unwavering commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and cultural appreciation through the arts.

During her visit to the Performing Arts Center recently, Legislator Bontempi experienced firsthand the center’s dynamic programs that integrate arts into the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through Program Without Walls community inclusion opportunities.

Located at 51 Scudder Avenue in Northport, the People’s Arc Performing Arts Center offers a variety of programs, including TheatreAbility, MusicAbility, DanceAbility, and ARC TV, all designed to foster self-expression and community integration.

“The People’s Arc Performing Arts Center exemplifies how artistic expression can unite communities and celebrate diverse voices,” said Legislator Bontempi. “Their dedication to creating an equitable and integrated community is truly commendable.”

The official recognition ceremony will take place at the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting on April 8th at 9:30 a.m. in Riverhead.

“We’re grateful to Legislator Bontempi and her support of our programs that are truly life-changing for the people we support,” said John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk. “Demonstrating the impact of what we do is essential to securing continued support and funding from the public and private sectors.”

Their innovative services promote inclusion and self-expression, enriching the cultural fabric of the community.

About People’s Arc of Suffolk

Formerly known as AHRC Suffolk, People’s Arc of Suffolk is dedicated to creating communities where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy life to its fullest. The organization provides a wide array of services, including employment opportunities, education programs, and community engagement, all aimed at fostering an equitable and integrated community for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Follow People’s Arc of Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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Pictured from left, Commack Superintendent Jordan Cox, Research Coordinator Jeanette Collette, Legislator Rob Trotta, Regeneron finalist Ishana Chandha, Principal Carrie Lipenholz, Science Director Laura Longo and Ishana’s mother. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office

“As a graduate of Commack High School North, I am always proud to recognize the achievements of Commack’s students,” said Legislator Rob Trotta at the March 4 General Meeting of the Legislature as he introduced Ishana Chadha who was selected as one of the 40 finalists in the annual Regeneron science competition. The contest had 2,471 entrants from 795 high schools.

For her project, she researched a protein gene that affects cognitive disabilities. It is entitled, “Understanding Neuronal Migration in Brain Development: The Role of Oligophrenin1 in Modulating Radial Migration of Pyramidal Neurons by Interaction with Pacsin2.” Ishana is particularly interested in this field as her great grandfather had Alzheimer’s disease and she recalls the impact it had on her great grandmother, parents and herself. In addition, she aspires to be a neurosurgeon.

Legislator Trotta noted that Commack has a tradition of students excelling in this competition as they have had 13 other Regeneron scholars over the years. He congratulated Ishana and thanked the school officials for their support, as well as her parents.

 

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Three Village Central School District Athletic Director Kevin Finnerty, left, and Legislator Steven Englebright, right, with the Ward Melville High School Cheerleading Team. Photo from Legislator Steven Englebright’s office
Legislator Steven Englebright (center) with Three Village Central School District Athletic Director Kevin Finnerty, left, Head Coach John Diel, second from left, members of the Ward Melville High School girls soccer team and Assistant Coach Louise Williams. Photo from Legislator Steven Englebright’s office
Three Village Central School District Athletic Director Kevin Finnerty with the Ward Melville High School Cheerleading Team. Photo from Legislator Steven Englebright’s office
Three Village Central School District Athletic Director Kevin Finnerty, Head Coach John Diel and Assistant Coach Louise Williams with members of the Ward Melville High School girls soccer team. Photo from Legislator Steven Englebright’s office

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) honored two Ward Melville High School teams at the Legislature’s General Meeting on March 4.

On hand to receive proclamations from Englebright were the high school’s cheerleading and girls soccer team members. Both teams were recognized for their wins at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) championship games in November.

Cheerleading

The cheerleading team, coached by Head Coach Georgia Curtis and Assistant Coach Maggie Hurley, emerged as the 2024 Class A state Game Day Champions at a competition held at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy on November 10. The team earned the state title with a 90.6. In March 2024, they also were the state champions after winning the Competitive Class A title.

“To the Ward Melville cheerleaders thank you for cheering on the Ward Melville Patriots football and basketball teams and for providing moral support to your fellow athletes,” Englebright said. “Most important of all, congratulations to all of you on your hard work and athletic accomplishments that make your school district and our county and community proud of each and every one of you.”

A few days after their trip to the County Legislature, the team traveled to the state championship in Binghamton, where they walked away the Competitive Class A champions once again.

Girls soccer

The Ward Melville Patriots Girl’s Soccer Team won the 2024 state Class AAA final, 1-0, at SUNY Cortland on November 17. The win was their third consecutive victory at the state championships.

In addition to winning the three state finals in a row, the team – led by Captains Maddie Costello, Breena Harrigan, and Sarah Jablonsky and coached by Head Coach John Diehl and Assistant Coach Louise Williams – hasn’t lost a game in three seasons. They completed the 2024 season, 20-0-1. According to Newsday records, the Patriots’ 63 games without a loss is a Long Island girls soccer record.

“The skillful seniors on this team will have wonderful memories of being part of a stellar team and leave a legacy that, I am confident, their younger counterparts will take good care of in upcoming seasons,” Englebright said.

 

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Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Legislator Steve Englebright’s office
Elaine Maas of Four Harbors Audubon Society puts the finishing touches on the nest structure. Photo from Leg. Steve Englebright's office
Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Councilmember Kornreich's office
Volunteers including Elaine Maas and Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Legislator Steven Englebright’s office
Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Councilmember Kornreich's office
Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Legislator Steve Englebright’s office
Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Legislator Steve Englebright’s office
Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Legislator Steve Englebright’s office
Volunteers helped to raise the osprey pole last Sunday. Photo from Legislator Steve Englebright’s office

Sometimes it takes a village.

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) joined members of the Four Harbors Audubon Society (4HAS) and Three Village Dads Foundation for an osprey pole raising at the West Meadow Creek inlet in Stony Brook on March 9.

According to a joint press release from Englebright’s and Kornreich’s office, an osprey pole was recently removed from Suffolk County’s Old Field Farm. Despite successful nests in earlier years, 4HAS members observed in recent years that sporadic activity in the area surrounding the pole was scaring away adult ospreys for long periods, leaving the birds’ eggs or newborn chicks susceptible to predators.

Elaine Maas, 4HAS co-chair of co-Chair Education and Outreach, and John Turner, 4HAS co-chair of Conservation Committee, who both sit on the society’s board, brought the issue to the attention of Englebright. The county legislator reached out to the Suffolk County Parks Department to discuss relocating the pole to a nearby location. Maas and Turner also contacted Kornreich’s office to request using town property abutting the county park for a new pole in an area that is less accessible than the old nest.

On Saturday, March 1, concrete, water and a mixer were delivered to the Brookhaven property. JM Troffa Hardscape, Mason and Building Supply provided the concrete, while K. Dymond Industries lent the use of their equipment. Members of the Three Village Dads Foundation and 4HAS, along with Englebright and Kornreich, were on hand to dig a hole and set a pole sleeve in concrete for the new osprey pole.

Before the preparation for the new pole, the Suffolk County Parks Department removed the old one at Old Field Farm to prevent ospreys from nesting at this nonviable spot. 

Volunteers delivered the new 20-foot pole donated by Haig and Jack Seferian of Flagpoles, Inc., and the nest structure built by Elite Home Improvement to the site on Sunday, March 9. Three Village Dads Foundation and 4HAS members and Flagpole, Inc. also donated or paid for additional materials to cement and build the nest structure. The volunteers were again on hand, preparing the nest box for the birds and raising the pole. 

Maas and Turner were among the volunteers on March 1 and 9. Maas said the pole was raised just in time as the ospreys, who migrate south to Florida or South American in the winter, usually return to Long Island around St. Patrick’s Day. She added she was “grateful for the widespread community support.”

Kornreich thanked the members of Three Village Dads Foundation and its chairman, David Tracy, as well as 4HAS.

“We were up against a time crunch because the ospreys start nesting in a few weeks, and the Dads really delivered,” Kornreich said. “Thank you to Elaine Maas and John Turner from Four Harbors for bringing this situation to our attention, and we are glad we were able to help connect the dots and find a solution.”

Englebright echoed the sentiments.

“It was good to see the community come together in the interest of protecting these remarkable birds,” the legislator said.

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Pictured from left,Twila Silverman, Chair of Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission; Stacey Ann Caggiano, Director of Suffolk County Department of Women’s Services; Legislator Bontempi; Suffolk County Woman of Distinction honoree Linda Oristano and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. Photo courtesy of Leg. Bontempi's office

Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-18th L.D.) proudly honored Linda Oristano as the Suffolk County Woman of Distinction for the 18th District, during a celebration luncheon at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge on March 4.

A Northport resident for over 20 years, Linda Oristano serves as the Executive Director of the Northport/East Northport Community Drug & Alcohol Task Force. Her dedication to community service and advocacy has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Long Island’s Top 50 Women, the Humanitarian Award from the Special Olympics, and the Soroptimist Award for Making a Difference for Women.

With extensive experience in counseling, advocacy, mentoring, and education, Oristano has devoted her time to supporting the elderly, individuals facing personal challenges, and those seeking spiritual guidance. She is a Certified Addiction Recovery Coach, a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate, M.A.T. trained, a CASAC-T, an Associate of the Sisters of St. Joseph, and a Credentialed Spiritual Director. Her career spans over 30 years in social services, community service, training, and healthcare.

 “Linda’s dedication to improving the lives of so many in our community is truly inspiring. Her work has made a lasting impact on our local families, and she is incredibly deserving of this honor,” said Legislator Bontempi.

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Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta presented his nominee and overall 2025 Suffolk County Woman of Distinction Kathy Albrecht with a proclamation signed by all 18 members of the Legislature. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office
Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta introduces his nominee and overall 2025 Suffolk County Woman of Distinction Kathy Albrecht (rear, left) as County Executive Edward Romaine (rear, center) and Legislator/Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey (rear, right), Chair of the Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission Twila Silverman and Director of the Office of Women’s Services Stacy Caggiano listen. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office
Pictured at the 2025 Woman of Distinction Celebration are Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta (center) with his nominee and overall winner, Kathy Albrecht, (right) and Adrienne Giannadeo his 2024 Woman of Distinction. Photo from Leg. Trotta's office

At the March 4 General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Kathy Albrecht, Legislator Rob Trotta’s nominee for the 2025 Woman of Distinction was announced as the person chosen by the Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Committee as the overall county wide 2025 Woman of Distinction. Each legislator selects one woman from their district as their Woman of Distinction who is then considered for this overall recognition.

Kathy was recognized for her commitment to and involvement with her family, friends and community. “She has been a role model for her two daughters and other women, as well as an inspiration to all,” said Legislator Rob Trotta.

She grew up in Westbury and then the family moved to Setauket where she graduated from Ward Melville High School. She enlisted in the Army where she served as a helicopter medic from 1980-1984. She met her husband, Dave, a marine, while in the service.

Kathy and Dave have lived in Smithtown for more than 40 years. She is Chief of Staff for New York State Assemblyman Mike Fitzpatrick and writes a column, Around Smithtown, for The Smithtown News. She is extremely involved in the community volunteering as a Sunday school teacher and director of Hospitality at the Grace Church in Smithtown, serves on the board of the Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce and is the treasurer, a trustee with the Smithtown Cemetery Association, a member of the American Legion Post 833, former trustee at the Smithtown Historical Society and active with many other organizations.

“Kathy is an integral member of her community, and she is passionate about the town and the people who live there,” said Legislator Trotta. “In fact, several years ago she donated one of her kidneys to a young woman whom she did not know but read about her need in The Smithtown News and saw it on News 12. Kathy volunteered to be tested as a match and was pleased when she found that she was compatible with the woman. Since that time, she has been an advocate for organ donations,” added Trotta.

She has been recognized by the Smithtown Children’s Foundation with its Courage Award, New York State Medal of Honor for The Gift of Life, named the Times of Smithtown Woman of the Year 2012 and the Smithtown Business & Professional Women’s “Network of Example.”

Legislator Trotta said, “I have known Kathy a long time and she is most deserving of this recognition. She shares her time and talent with many individuals and organizations helping to make the community a great place for all to live and work.”

 

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Legislator Sanin (center-right) with the Elwood-John Glenn Boys Varsity Wrestling Team; Head Coach TJ Brocking (center-left; and David Shanahan, Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics (right). Photo courtesy of Leg. Sanin's office

At a recent meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly honored the Elwood-John Glenn Boys Varsity Wrestling Team with an official proclamation recognizing their victory as the 2025 New York State Dual Meet Champions.

The Knights dominated in the Division II final, securing a 38-29 win over Plainedge, marking a historic moment for the program. The team displayed remarkable resilience in the semifinals, overcoming a 24-4 deficit to win seven straight matches, cementing their place in New York wrestling history.

“This championship victory is not just about wrestling—it’s about determination, discipline, and teamwork,” said Legislator Sanin. “These athletes and their coaches have worked incredibly hard, pushing through challenges and showing what true dedication looks like. Their achievement is an inspiration to our entire community.”

Legislator Sanin also recognized the team’s coaching staff—Head Coach TJ Brocking, along with Assistant Coaches Ryan Patrovich and Devin Carter—for their outstanding leadership in guiding the team to victory.

The team was celebrated with a school-wide assembly at Elwood-John Glenn High School, where their championship banner was raised, marking their second state dual meet title in school history.

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Honoree Leslie Bellissimo weith Leg. Rebecca Sanin. Photo courtesy of Leg. Sanin's office

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Leslie Bellissimo as District 16’s Woman of Distinction at the annual Suffolk County Women of Distinction Luncheon, celebrating her lifelong dedication to empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and driving meaningful change.

For over 35 years, Leslie has been a champion for families across Long Island and the New York Metro region, currently serving as the Long Island-New York Metro Regional Director at Friends of Karen. In this role, she leads efforts to support families facing the unimaginable challenge of a child’s life-threatening illness, ensuring they receive financial assistance, emotional support, and advocacy throughout their journey.

Prior to her work with Friends of Karen, Leslie played a pivotal role at the American Heart Association, where she helped secure major funding for lifesaving initiatives and spearheaded key Long Island fundraising events. A lifelong resident of Huntington, Leslie’s dedication to service extends beyond her professional career—she has volunteered tirelessly for local charities, organized community drives, and educated others in lifesaving skills like hands-only CPR.

“Leslie Bellissimo embodies the very essence of this recognition,” said Legislator Sanin. “Her commitment to uplifting others, whether through her work, her advocacy, or her community engagement, is truly extraordinary. Suffolk County is a better place because of leaders like her.”

The annual Suffolk County Women of Distinction Luncheon recognizes women across the county who have demonstrated leadership, service, and a commitment to making a difference in their communities.

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Pictured from left,Twila Silverman, Chair of Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission; Stacey Ann Caggiano, Director of Suffolk County Department of Women’s Services; Fifth Legislative District Woman of Distinction Johanna Kosak; Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright; and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. Photo courtesy of Leg. Englebright's office

At a luncheon held at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge on March 4, all 18 Suffolk County Legislators honored the county’s Women of Distinction for 2025. The county’s Department of Women’s Services asked each legislator to choose an impressive female constituent from their district who volunteers their time to make their community a better place. Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) named nonprofit founder Johanna Kosak as the Fifth Legislative District’s Woman of Distinction.

Kosak founded the Comsewogue Music and Arts Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in September 2023 after her daughter noticed a lack of music and arts scholarships in the Comsewogue School District. The nonprofit organization assists students pursuing creative paths.

“It’s impressive that Ms. Kosak found a need in her children’s school district and took matters in her own hands to do something about it,” Englebright said. “Music and other creative pursuits are vital for the collective good of our society.”

Kosak works alongside school district mothers Secretary Michele Provenzale and Treasurer Yoon Choi-Perrone, as well as the nonprofit’s student volunteers, her daughter, Annmarie; Perrone’s son, James; and Provenzale’s son, Michael.

The volunteers organize and host 20 to 30 fundraisers annually and have raised $12,000 since September 2023. The nonprofit is present at every school concert and drama production to sell flowers and snacks, hold raffles and request donations.

The nonprofit raises funds for scholarships for Comsewogue High School seniors who plan to enroll in college music, arts, marketing, business and architecture programs. CMAC also provides opportunities for art students to promote their artwork at the nonprofit’s craft fair. Last year, the sale of artwork supplied funds for CMAC and the Arts Honor Society.

Additionally, the CMAC supports teachers by providing grants for educators to invite professional musicians and artists for workshops and career development sessions. CMAC also raises funds to reduce costs for families in financial need who wish to send younger children to music or drama programs during the summer vacation.

The nonprofit’s work includes supporting the Comsewogue High School Business Department by providing learning and collaboration opportunities for students interested in digital art marketing.

In addition to her volunteer work with CMAC, the mother of four works fulltime and volunteers with her husband at Infant Jesus Roman Catholic Church. Her husband serves as the organist, while she plays keyboard. A former instructor at Suffolk County Community College, Kosak also volunteered with the Suffolk Piano Teachers Foundation, serving in roles such as president, vice-president and competition coordinator.

Kosak said she was honored and humbled to be honored and credited her fellow volunteers and the community for making CMAC a success.

“This recognition was not only for me but for our entire community and a great encouragement to continue,” Kosak said.

 

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