There have been reports of deceased birds being found across the county. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recommends the following guidance if you encounter this situation on your property.
In cases where DEC field staff cannot collect samples or carcasses from the landscape, please limit direct contact with dead wildlife and keep children and pets away. To dispose of a dead bird safely, DEC provides the following guide:
Wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection, like safety glasses or goggles.
Avoid direct contact with the carcass or carcass fluids by using a shovel or a garbage bag to pick up the bird.
Carcasses should be triple bagged (garbage or contractor bags) and placed in an outdoor trash receptacle.
Remove and throw away your gloves. Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after removing gloves.
Change your clothes and wash them after disposing of the bird.
If you use a shovel, clean it with hot, soapy water and disinfect it with diluted bleach (1/3 cup bleach added to a gallon of water).
For additional information or to make a report, please call the DEC at 844-332-3267.
Diet and exercise are the first line of defense for those living with diabetes. Stock photo
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and the Department of Health Services invite residents who are at risk of developing type-2 diabetes to participate in the Suffolk County Diabetes Prevention Program. The program is based off of the National Diabetes Prevention Program that supports moderate behavioral changes and incorporates healthy eating and physical activity.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 98 million American adults — more than 1 in 3 — are at risk for diabetes.
“We want our residents to be healthy and live fulfilling lives,” said Romaine. “We encourage all adult residents to take a one-minute risk survey to learn if they are at risk for prediabetes. Through educational programming and preventative measures, we are here to help you reduce your risk.”
“Diabetes puts the body at risk for many serious health conditions,” said Dr. Gregson Pigott, Suffolk County Health Commissioner. “The good news is that moderate changes in lifestyle can help restore blood sugar to normal levels and result in significant health benefits.”
The Suffolk County Diabetes Prevention Program has received “full plus” recognition from the CDC, meeting the agency’s highest standards. To date, 440 Suffolk County residents have successfully completed the program.
Residents are encouraged to take the one-minute risk test at www.doihaveprediabetes.org and are invited to attend informational sessions at:
— Smithtown Public Library, 148 Smithtown Blvd, Nesconset on Feb. 24 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
— Brookhaven Free Library, 273 Beaver Dam Road, Brookhaven on Wednesday, March 12 from noon to 1 p.m.
— Center Moriches Public Library, 235 Main Street, Center Moriches on March 19 from noon to 1 p.m.
— Patchogue/Medford Library, 54-60 East Main Street, Patchogue on March 28 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
From left, Suffolk County Deputy Undersheriff Kevin Heavey with Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff's Office
From left, Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo with Suffolk County Deputy Undersheriff Kevin Heavey. Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff's Office
Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff
On Wednesday, February 5, Kevin Heavey was sworn in as a Deputy Undersheriff for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office. Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. appointed Deputy Undersheriff Heavy, who spent 21 years in the New York City Police Department (NYPD), and he will oversee the Academy, Ceremonial and Wellness Unit.
“Deputy Undersheriff Heavey’s leadership and deep understanding of law enforcement operations will enhance our ability to serve and protect Suffolk County,” said Sheriff Toulon. “His commitment to integrity, accountability, and public safety will be invaluable as we continue strengthening our initiatives and supporting the men and women of this agency. I look forward to the work he will contribute to our Office and Suffolk County.”
Deputy Undersheriff Heavey brings over two decades of law enforcement experience, having served in the NYPD in various leadership roles, including the Internal Affairs Bureau and the Ceremonial Unit. His expertise spans criminal investigations, crisis intervention, and interagency collaboration, according to a press release.
From left, Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina with Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo. Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Sheriff's Office
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine with Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina. Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Executive Romaine's office
Catalina to Serve as the 16th Police Commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department
On Feb. 5, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine joined with the Suffolk County Legislature, Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo, and members of the Suffolk County Police Department as Kevin Catalina was sworn in as the 16th commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department.
Catalina’s nomination was approved by the Suffolk County Legislature at its Feb. 4, general meeting. Catalina, who previously served as deputy police commissioner with the Suffolk County Police Department, has more than 33 years of law enforcement experience with two of the largest police departments in the country.
Kevin Catalina
“Today serves as a monumental day in Suffolk County as we are proud to introduce Kevin Catalina as our Police Commissioner formally,” Romaine said. “Commissioner Catalina is a man of honor and integrity and will serve as a tremendous leader of the men and women of the Suffolk County Police Department while serving as a steward to our communities.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to become commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department, the best police department in the country,” Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina said. “This is a dream come true. I am excited to utilize my more than 30 years of law enforcement experience and work alongside a knowledgeable and professional executive team to implement strategies to continue to drive down crime while building relationships with our residents through community policing efforts.”
“Kevin Catalina has shown over the course of a distinguished career why he’s said to be “a cop’s cop,” said Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey.“I fully expect that the leadership, innovation, and achievements that make up his remarkable experience over three decades will prove invaluable in making Suffolk County a safer place. I’m proud to support him as commissioner.”
Commissioner Catalina is nationally recognized as a subject matter expert and innovator of anti-gang violence strategies. He brings 20 years of experience on the executive level, which has led to a unique crime prevention and management skill set.
Before his time at the SCPD, Catalina served as the undersheriff for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office for more than five years. Catalina oversaw approximately 250 deputy sheriffs as well as the Corrections Division Intelligence Bureau of 30 investigators and a unit of analysts. Catalina was successful in creating and implementing a corrections-based intelligence model utilizing jail-based intelligence that assisted in solving and preventing crimes within the community.
Catalina’s law enforcement career began in 1992 as a police officer in the New York Police Department’s 103rd Precinct. He quickly moved up the ranks, spending 20 years in supervisory roles including three stints as a commanding officer.
Catalina was then promoted to deputy Chief and served as the Commanding Officer of the Gang Division. Catalina developed and implemented all gang investigative and suppression strategies that continue to be utilized citywide.
Program Assists First Time Homebuyers Achieve the ‘American Dream’
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine announced on Jan. 27 that the County is accepting applications for the Down Payment Assistance Program, which provides eligible first-time homebuyers up to $30,000 on a purchase of a single-family residence under the condition that they live in the home for at least 10 years. Applications are being accepted through April 1, 2025.
“We are committed to making Suffolk County more affordable by offering young professionals and first-time buyers the assistance to achieve their dreams of home ownership,” said Romaine. “By offering our residents further assistance and financial relief, we will be able to build a brighter future for our communities.”
The program, which was launched in 1993, provides eligible, first-time homebuyers with a conditional grant of up to $30,000 to use towards their down payment. The buyer is responsible for the balance of the down payment and all the closing costs. Last year, the program assisted in six closings, totaling $162,000 in assistance.
All applicants are required to attend housing counseling prior to submitting an application. The property must be a single-family residence with no rental units and may be a pre-existing or newly constructed single-family residence, condominium, co-operative apartment (Co-op) or manufactured home. The maximum appraised value cannot exceed $551,000.
Eligibility Criteria
Must be a first-time homebuyer, defined by HUD as a person who has not owned a home during the three year period immediately prior to the purchase of a residence with HOME funding.
Have an adjusted gross household income must be within the HUD guidelines (listed in the application).
Occupy the property as their principal residence for 10 years.
Attend homebuyer counseling at a HUD certified not-for-profit housing agency in person.
Not have entered a Contract of Sale to purchase a home prior to being awarded a Purchaser Certificate from the Suffolk County Community Development Office.
Have minimum of $3,000 of their own funds at the time of application in their savings, checking or investment accounts.
Residents are advised to visit SCDownpayment.com to download the application and guidelines as well as the program’s Quick Reference Guide in English and Spanish.
For questions or additional information, please contact the Suffolk County Office of Community Development at 631-853-5705 or [email protected].
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine announced that the Suffolk County Veterans Emergency Assistance Commission is now accepting applications from veterans in need of home heating assistance. Consideration is given to all home heating options and to minor home heating system repairs.
“With all the pressures facing our heroic veterans, staying warm at night should not be one of their concerns,” said Romaine.
The Commission has $100,000 at its disposal for 2025. Members of prominent veterans’ organizations determine eligibility and sit on the commission.
“Suffolk County serves the largest population of veterans in New York State. Our office has identified there is a need for veterans, especially those on a fixed income, with assistance paying the high cost of heating their homes. These heroes that served our country in times of peace and during war deserve the help that the Suffolk County Legislature has provided through the Veterans Emergency Home Heating Assistance Program,” said Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency Director Marcelle Leis.
If you are interested in learning more and/or applying for the Veterans Emergency Home Heating Assistance Program, please contact the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency at (631) 853-8387 or email at veteransinfo@suffolkcountyny.gov.
Legislator Sanin at the 2025 Inauguration of the Suffolk County Legislature
Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin has been elected as Whip for the Democratic Caucus of the Suffolk County Legislature. The announcement was made in a press release on Jan. 30. “This leadership role comes just one year after Legislator Sanin’s election to the Legislature, reflecting her hard work, dedication, and effectiveness in delivering results for Suffolk County residents,” read the release.
As Democratic Whip, Legislator Sanin will play a critical role in advancing the caucus’s legislative agenda and building consensus on key issues. Her leadership will focus on continuing her efforts to reduce costs and make Suffolk County more affordable for working families, enhance public safety, and create good-paying jobs to support families across the county.
“It is an honor to be selected by my colleagues to serve as the Democratic Whip,” said Legislator Sanin. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made in my first year on the Legislature, and I look forward to working closely with our caucus to build a safer, stronger, and more affordable Suffolk County for all. This new role allows me to amplify the voices of our communities and to continue advocating for the policies that matter most to our residents.”
Democratic Caucus Leader, Legislator Jason Richberg, praised Sanin’s leadership and tireless commitment to her constituents: “Rebecca has demonstrated incredible dedication and vision since joining the Legislature. Her ability to connect with residents, her thoughtful approach to policymaking, and her passion for public service make her the perfect choice for Democratic Whip. I am confident she will continue to make a significant impact in this role.”
Suffolk County Democratic Committee Chairman Rich Schaffer also expressed his support: “Legislator Sanin has proven herself to be a dynamic and effective leader in just her first year on the Legislature. Her election as Democratic Whip is a testament to her hard work, her ability to bring people together, and her commitment to improving the lives of Suffolk County families. I look forward to seeing her continued success in this new leadership role.”
“Legislator Sanin has built a reputation as a fierce advocate for her district and a champion for policies that strengthen Suffolk County’s economy, enhance public safety, and improve quality of life for all residents. As the Democratic Whip, she will work closely with her colleagues to advance initiatives that address the county’s most pressing challenges and create new opportunities for families across Suffolk,” read the release.
Some of the hats knitted by Sue Harrison for children and adults. Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office
For several years, Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta has been working with Smithtown based SMM Advertising and the Retired Senior Volunteer Programs (RSVP) to conduct a winter coat drive to benefit the residents of Suffolk County who need warm winter clothing.
Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta with some of the coats residents dropped off at his office in Smithtown. Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta’s office
“The response was phenomenal. We received numerous donations from so many residents,” said Legislator Trotta. “In addition, for the third year in a row, Sue Harrison knitted hats for the children and adults,” added Trotta.
“Every donated coat and warm garment represent a message of hope and care from one human being to another. Thank you to RSVP and Legislator Rob Trotta for all your support and enthusiasm each year to make our Coat Drive a success,” said Tricia Folliero, Vice President, SMM Advertising.
The donated winter wear was distributed to the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry, St, Vincent de Paul’s Food Pantry at St. Jospeh’s Church in Kings Park, St. Gerard of Majella Outreach, Infant Jesus Outreach, Church of the Resurrection Outreach, Echo Arms Adult Home, Lighthouse Mission and Pax Christi Men’s Shelter.
“The Friends of the Retired and Senior Volunteer program is overwhelmed by the response of our RSVP volunteers and our community members to take this opportunity to care for our community. The number of blankets and coats that they provided was incredible and so often the donation came with a willingness to continue to help. We are grateful to be working with Leg. Trotta and SMM Advertising.,” said Maryflorence Brennan, Executive Director of RSVP.
Brayden Michael Dickneider receives a proclamation for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout from Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta recognized Brayden Michael Dickneider of Troop 214 for attaining the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout at his Court of Honor at the Smithtown Presbyterian Church on January 4. During the ceremony, he presented Brayden with a proclamation to acknowledge this accomplishment.
Brayden completed the requirements to be eligible to receive the rank of Eagle Scout. For his community service project, Brayden installed a new fence at the Smithtown First Presbyterian Church.
“This is a very proud moment for Brayden, his family and friends and the other scouts. This accomplishment will be with him for the rest of his life, and I am sure he will serve as an inspiration to the younger scouts,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
Juan Rodriguez, a US Army veteran who served his country with distinction during the Korean War while assigned to the “Borinqueneers” the 65th Infantry Regiment, was recognized for his distinguished service at a celebration at the VFW Post 5796 in Kings Park on January 11.
During the Korean War, often referred to as the “Forgotten War,” the men of the 65th Infantry Regiment earned 10 Distinguished Service Crosses, 256 Silver Stars, and 596 Bronze Stars. In addition, on June 10, 2014, the Regiment was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. Then in 2021 Congress designated April 13 as “National Borinqueneers Day.”The 65th Regiment was the first segregated Hispanic military unit from Puerto Rico and the first unit of the Korean War to receive such distinction.
After the war, Mr. Rodriguez enrolled in the School of Commercial Arts and upon graduating he worked in advertising and then started his own Hot Press business in Manhattan. With the advent of computers, he closed his business and worked out his home for a couple of years and then secured a position as a custodian for the Kings Park School District.
During the program, Legislator Trotta related a story about his father who joined the marines during the Korean War as he did not want to go to college. In boot camp, his superiors gave him a test and he did so well that they sent him to college, and he was stationed in Puerto Rico during the Korean War. “I am extremely proud to be here today and thank you for your service to our country,” added Trotta.
Pictured at the celebration are from left to right Nick Cipolla, representing US Congressman Nick LaLota, NYS Senator Mario Mattera, Korean War Veteran Juan Rodriguez and Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
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