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The Gold Coast Jazz Band

The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, 101 Church St., Kings Park.invites the community to enjoy a night of American-style swing and jazz music on Friday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.

Come experience the upbeat Big Band-style jazz sound popularized in the decade following Prohibition, as interpreted by Long Island’s Gold Coast Jazz Band! The Gold Coast Jazz Band performs the popular music of America in early 20th century, from Ragtime to the dawn of the Swing era, a period of incredible musical creativity when the Golden Age of American Popular Song met the Jazz Age.

Robert Levey II

Then hear an awe-inspiring performance by up-and-coming young singer, musician and actor, Robert Levey II.  Robert Levey II started his entertainment career at the age of five and has played many lead and supporting roles. He has a singing voice described as “angelic.” Mr. Levey has amassed a huge social media following, and continues to inspire others with his energy and passion.

The venue will be open at 6 p.m. if you’d like to explore the Kings Park Heritage Museum exhibits early. All ages are welcome!

Admission is free. Donations are gladly accepted.

The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum has been working to educate and enlighten students and the community about the long and storied history of Kings Park and its residents for over 25 years. It was founded by retired KPHS English/History teacher Leo P. Ostebo, along with dedicated members of the community, the school district and students, and it is the only school/community managed museum in the United States. The museum has received many awards that attest to its commitment to the community and is thankful to all the volunteers and donors who have kept it going. Visit KPHeritageMuseum.net for more information.

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Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office

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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The Angel Tree. Photo courtesy of Town of Smithtown

The Smithtown Senior Center, 420 Middle Country Road Smithtown organized and collected over $2000.00 in gift cards to donate to The Angels of Kings Park, in time for the holiday season. The 501c3 nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing emergency financial assistance to local families and individuals who have experienced hardships. Additional Gift cards were given to the Northport VA Hospital.

Doreen Perrino, Director of the Smithtown Senior Center, and MaryAnn Jacoutot, Senior Citizens Program Supervisor, organized the fundraiser. The tree, known throughout the center as the Angel Tree, is beautifully decorated, adorning angel ornaments with written suggested dollar amounts for various gift cards participants could select from such as  Amazon, Target, Walmart, and more. Members of the Senior Center and the staff generously participated in this special initiative.

“It is our hope that the donations will allow families to create memories that will last them a lifetime. Our seniors and staff are very generous, and they simply want to help others. Instead of buying gifts for one another, we are giving the gift of caring for those in need. It gives us great joy to provide a sense of hope to others this Holiday Season,” said Perrino.

Perrino and  Jacoutot, along with Lynn and Stewart Meyers, Cathy Morgano, and Susan Montigny from Club Moriches, presented the assortment of gift cards to the Angels of Kings Park Board members, Danielle Calabria, Jacqueline Clancy, and Kathleen Lanese. The collection exceeded the amount donated last year.

The Smithtown Senior Center also donates handmade quilts, blankets, baby hats, prayer shawls, and greeting cards to many local hospitals, shelters, group homes, and nursing homes throughout the year to let those who may feel forgotten know that there is always someone who cares.

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How To Join the Smithtown Senior Center: Smithtown residents, ages 60 years and older can join (no fee is required) by filling out a brief application on-site, along with proof of residency such as a driver’s license. A membership card and welcome packet will be provided, along with a tour of the facility by a Senior Center Club Leader. The welcome packet includes a current calendar of activities, classes, and events, as well as brochures for services and amenities available exclusively for members.

The Eugene Cannataro Senior Citizens Center offers a wide array of activities, clubs and programming geared towards improving quality of life for residents, ages 60 years or older. Every day, the center offers a full schedule of arts, fitness, and wellness programming. Members can choose to join a variety of clubs, from gardening, quilting and book clubs to one of seven social clubs, featuring Casino & Theater outings, luncheons, parties, community advocacy and volunteer opportunities. In addition to a wealth of entertaining programming, the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department offers a variety of at home maintenance and repairs services.

The Senior Center is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (July & August Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) Lunch is served daily. Transportation is also available for members.

For questions or additional information, please call  (631) 360-7616 or for Transportation: (631) 265-8811.

 

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Museum Director Sal Iraci and Media Director Joe Piacentino next to a 1929 Ford Model, featuring a rumble seat. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

The Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, located inside Ralph J. Osgood Intermediate School (RJO) in Kings Park, offers visitors a rare glimpse into the everyday lives, struggles and technological advances that shaped the 20th century.

Nestled in a quiet corner of town, the museum boasts an impressive collection of vintage items spanning key historical periods. From the late 1800s to the rise of modern appliances, iconic cars and the enduring appeal of typewriters, cameras and electronics, it provides a fascinating gateway to history.

The museum’s creation was inspired by the closing of the Kings Park Psychiatric Center, one of the country’s largest, oldest and most medically significant mental hospitals. Retired Kings Park High School history and English teacher Leo Ostebo, along with two other townspeople and a group of high school students, opened what remains the only school community-managed museum in the United States.

Developed, maintained and cultivated for educational purposes, the museum’s mission is to preserve the town’s rich historic past and educate youth, the community and the public.

The 6,000-square-foot museum features nine rooms, each with a distinct theme. One of its most captivating rooms pays tribute to wars fought and soldiers who died for the country. The collection includes military uniforms, helmets, ration cards and other artifacts, offering a powerful glimpse into the lives of soldiers and civilians during turbulent times. Military equipment such as tools, gas masks and communication devices is displayed alongside personal items like photographs, providing an intimate perspective on history.

“Grandma’s Kingdom,” another themed room, showcases the evolution of domestic life, highlighting kitchen appliances such as 1940s refrigerators and iceboxes alongside hand-powered washers and dryers from the late 1800s. The exhibit offers a nostalgic look at innovations that shaped family life in the early 20th century. Visitors can also marvel at dolls, wooden strollers and bassinets from pre-World War I, and period clothing and furniture.

For car enthusiasts, the museum’s collection of vintage automobiles is a standout. Highlights include a 1923 Ford Model T, owned by Gary Richards, founder of P.C. Richard & Son, and a 1931 Plymouth that cost $535 at the time and features a rumble seat. These vehicles showcase the evolution of automotive design and the golden age of engineering.

The electronics room celebrates the typewriter, an invention that revolutionized communication and office work. Rows of vintage typewriters, from early models to more modern versions, illustrate the evolution of writing technology.

What sets the Kings Park Heritage Museum apart is its ability to connect the past to the present. Unlike many museums with static displays, it offers an immersive experience, inviting visitors to engage with artifacts. Guests can try a vintage typewriter or explore a classic car up close. Educational programs, workshops and events delve deeper into the cultural, technological and social changes reflected in the museum’s collection.

New donations arrive weekly, ensuring visitors always discover something new. The museum serves as a testament to the ingenuity, resilience and creativity of the 20th century, preserving the past for future generations. Whether you’re a history buff, a vintage enthusiast or simply curious about the past, the Kings Park Heritage Museum promises an unforgettable journey through time.

Museum Director Sal Iraci encapsulates its charm: “You could work here seven days a week for 10 hours a day and still find something new each time you come in.”

The Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, the only school community-managed museum in the U.S., is independently run by donations and volunteers, without funding from the Kings Park school district. It is open for tours during school days until 4 p.m. or by appointment. For more information on upcoming events, visit kpheritagemuseum.net.

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A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Sisters Prisha Dhakal, Yuna Ghimire and Samriddhi Baruwal, members of a Three Village Neplai dance group. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Long Island Chinese Dance Group, made up of non-professional dancers, who have performed at over 70 community events. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Vocalist Ariana Yang, 13, with her mother, a dancer with the Long Island Chinese Dance Group. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

The Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, located inside Ralph J. Osgood Intermediate School (RJO) in Kings Park, came alive on Nov. 15 for the museum’s second annual Asian Heritage Night. The event transformed the space into a celebration of culture, showcasing the talents of Asian dancers, musicians and singers in a night dedicated to community and connection.

This free event featured 14 performances by local artists and community groups, highlighting the beauty and diversity of Asian cultures. Through music and dance, the evening brought together tradition, creativity and a spirit of cultural exchange.

“The melodies tell stories, the rhythm sparks joy and the movements convey the depth of character,” said Joseph Piacentino Jr., media director for the Kings Park Heritage Museum. Museum Director Sal Iraci echoed this sentiment, calling the performances “a connection of beauty and tradition to the power of creativity.”

Among the highlights was a vibrant Bollywood performance by three young dancers from Rhythm Dance Academy in Stony Brook. Bollywood, a colorful and energetic style popularized by Indian cinema, blends classical Indian, rustic and folk dances with lively music.

Local student performers also shone. Eighth grader Arianna Yang from Stony Brook captivated the audience with her solo performance of “Beautiful,” sung entirely in Chinese. Yang shared that the song, with its harmonious melodies and inspiring lyrics, represents “the simple joys of life.” She added, “Sharing my singing with others brings me great joy.”

The Infant Jesus Prayer Group of Nassau Dance Troupe performed the Filipino folk dance “Polka sa Nayon,” a lively polka that reflects a mix of cultural influences. Member Jane Rupa described their rehearsals as moments of camaraderie, filled with “food, fun and laughter.”

Community appreciation for the event was palpable. Kings Park resident Kalbana Bhanbari, originally from Nepal, called the performances “inspiring, amazing and moving.”

The Long Island Chinese Dance Group, based in Stony Brook, also contributed to the program. Their Tibetan-inspired performance conveyed themes of endurance, harmony and resilience, capturing the essence of life in the snowy Tibetan mountains. “It is a cultural expression that honors the spirit of the people who live in these areas,” explained dancer Ming Lu.

Dr. Yan Yu, a professor of applied mathematics at Stony Brook University and organizer of the evening, said many of the performers were from the local community. “As immigrants, we like to showcase our culture and bring our heritage to the United States,” she said.

The Nepali Team Dance Group, featuring three sisters aged 4 to 9, delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Maitighar,” a classic folk song from the 1966 Nepali film of the same name.The song’s title, which translates to “maternal home,” captures the event’s celebration of cultural pride and tradition while honoring the performers appreciation for the American way of life. Meanwhile, the Philippine Line Dance troupe wowed the crowd with a cha-cha performance, reflecting the shared cultural ties between the Philippines and the United States.

The evening also honored community leaders. Agnes and Duanfeng He, attendees from Stony Brook, called the event “a celebration of Asian-American cultures.” Mr. He said, “We are so proud to be American.”

The night concluded with a performance of “You Raise Me Up,” led by Dr. Yu and the Stony Brook Chorus, a group of professors, scientists and researchers united by their love of vocal music. “We benefit so much from being American, and this is our way of giving back,” Yu said.

The Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, the only school community-managed museum in the United States, continues to fulfill its mission of preserving the town’s historic past and educating the community through events like Heritage Night. Independently run by volunteers and donations, the museum is open for tours during school days after 4 p.m. or by appointment.

For more information on upcoming events, from the Kings Park Heritage Museum, visit kpheritagemuseum.net.

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Social media applications. Pixabay photo

By Toni-Elena Gallo

According to News12 Long Island, thirteen Long Island school districts are suing social media companies Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and Facebook, citing increased mental health concerns among students.

South Huntington, Kings Park and Port Jefferson are just three of the school districts taking part in the class-action lawsuit.

South Huntington Union Free School District superintendent, Vito D’Elia, commented on his school district’s decision to join the lawsuit in a notice on the district’s website, saying, “We know the damage it’s doing to our students. We see it. We’re dealing with it. We see students that are more focused on their interactions on social media as opposed to their education. And, the ramifications are extremely dangerous.”

This stance was, recently, corroborated by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, when he said that “it is time to require a surgeon general’s warning label on social media platforms,” citing found evidence that more than three hours per day on social media can double the risk of poor mental health outcomes, including symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Social media use is a major component of the vast majority of adolescents’ lives. According to data obtained by Pew Research Center in 2022, up to 95% of youth, ages 13 to 17, use at least one social media platform, and more than a third use social media “almost constantly.”

A prime motive for joining the lawsuit is hiked mental health service costs, as students have been showing symptoms of internet overexposure.

South Huntington school district is seeking increased funding to employ more mental health professionals, as well as implement “social emotional learning lessons more,” including assemblies and workshops, on safe digital use.

Social media harm to students’ psyches has forced the school district to revamp their curriculum in recent years, with teachers having to focus on things “other than their actual lesson plans,” explained South Huntington Board of Education president, Nicholas Ciappetta, who added that the board’s decision to join the lawsuit was unanimous.

“There are costs associated with [our plans],” he said.

The lawsuit is also asking for the social media companies to implement appropriate and stricter safeguards including improved age verification, parental notification upon sign-up, improved management of age appropriate content and the design of their algorithms.

Ciappetta did add that the purpose of social media is not completely negative, or in vain.

“We’re not trashing social media,” he said. “[The school district] certainly uses it as a way of getting our message out. But if you look at any of the platforms, there’s a lot of negativity on there. And I think the negative always gets amplified. So you need a little more positivity and you need a little more kindness. And that’s something that the social media companies can invest in too. They can partner with us to promote that message.”

Joining the lawsuit comes at no cost to the school districts. Lawyers taking on this case will get a percentage of a monetary recovery, if any, that comes out of this legal challenge.

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Wildcats WIN! Bill Landon photo
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Wildcats WIN! Bill Landon photo
Kings Park senior midfielder Tommy Cassar pushes up-field. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park midfielder Luke Griffin scores. Photo by Bill Landon
Alex Kershis scores for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Liam Kershis scores for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Victory in hand. Bill Landon photo
Shoreham-Wading River senior Gavin McQueeney with the save. Photo by Bill Landon
Wildcats WIN! Bill Landon photo
Kings Park attack Billy Berhalter shoots. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park attack Billy Berhalter scores. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park defender Sam Myung clears the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior midfielder Tommy Cassar drives towards the cage. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park attack Jack Salva pushes up-field. Photo by Bill Landon
Liam Gregorek wins at “X” for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park defender Gavin Marzigliano breaks free in a road game against Shoreham-Wading River. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park attack Jack Salva fires at the cage. Photo by Bill Landon
8th grader Noah Gregorek scores for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Battle at “X”. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior midfielder John Flynn looks for a cutter. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park attack Billy Berhalter with an assist. Photo by Bill Landon
Alex Kershis splits the pipes for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Alex Kershis elbows his way past a Kings Park defender. Photo by Bill Landon
Wildcats score. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Alex Kershis looks for a cutter. Photo by Bill Landon

By Bill Landon

Shoreham-Wading River Wildcats (No. 2) struck first and never trailed in the Suffolk Class C boys lacrosse semifinals against Kings Park (No. 3) at Thomas Cutinella Memorial Field, Friday, May 17. 

The Gregorek brothers set the tone with senior Liam Gregorek notching his hat trick midway through the 3rd quarter as did his younger brother Noah, an eighth grader, to put the Wildcats ahead by six goals at 9-3. The senior quartet of Brendan Meskill along with twin brothers Liam and Alex Kershis answered the call with two goals apiece, and Andrew Cimino found the back of the net in the Wildcat 13-5 victory.

Senior goalie Jaden Galfano stopped 13 between the pipes.

Jack Salva had two goals for Kings Park and teammates Luke Griffin, John Flynn and Billy Berhalter each scored.

Kings Park concludes the 2024 campaign with a 10-6 record.

The Wildcats advance to the championship round where they’ll face top-seeded Bayport-Blue Point at Longwood High School Thursday, May 23. Game time is slated for 8 p.m. and tickets can be purchased at: gofan.co/app/school/NYSPHSAAXI.

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Kings Park senior John Flynn drives the lane in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior John Flynn lets a three-pointer fly. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Joe Romano drives the lane in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Joe Romano fights his way to the rim in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Thomas Matonti lets a three-pointer fly in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Joe Romano drives the lane in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Max Romer banks two in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park freshman Kyle Edmundson lets a three-pointer fly. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park’s Joe Romano fights his way to the rim. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park head coach Chris Rube from the sideline in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Timeout. Kings Park. Bill Landon photo
Kings Park senior Thomas Matonti muscles his way to the rim in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Thomas Matonti drives the lane in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park senior Max Romer drives the baseline in a road game against Hampton Bays. Photo by Bill Landon

Kings Park (3-5) squared off against host Hampton Bays (3-4) Saturday night where no decision was made after 32 minutes of play. With both teams deadlocked at 53-53 at the end of regulation, a four-minute overtime period was forced to decide the winner in the League V matchup Jan. 6.

Hampton Bays edged ahead clinging to a four-point lead with 33 seconds left in the overtime period, a lead that shrank to three with eight seconds left. Kings Park senior Thomas Matonti got the call and managed to let a 3-pointer fly that just missed its mark as the final buzzer sounded, with the Kingsmen falling to the Baymen 63-60.

It was the senior core of co-captains that topped the scoring chart for the Kingsmen with Joe Romano’s team high of 23 points, Thomas Matonti did his damage from afar with six triples and a pair of free throws for 20 points and John Flynn added 12.

Having lost to Elwood-John Glenn two days earlier, Kings Park rebounded Tuesday, defeating Islip at home 61-52. The Kingsmen will look to build on that momentum when they retake the court in another league matchup Tuesday, Jan. 16, with a road game against Harborfields. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.

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Meet your new Suffolk County Class A champions. Photo by Bill Landon
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Kings Park sophomore Nikki Caratozzolo crosses midfield. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Naomi Harris crosses the ball for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River sophomore Mia Mangano settles the ball for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park midfielder Mia Plutzer looks to the wing. Bill Landon photo
Shoreham-Wading River senior Bella Sweet settles the ball for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Naomi Harris settles the ball for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park forward Victoria Menzies looks to trap the ball in the Suffolk Class A final against Shoreham-Wading River. Bill Landon photo
Shoreham-Wading River sophomore Mia Mangano crosses the ball for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis pushes upfield for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Bella Sweet passes to the wing. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River goalie Morgan Lesiewicz with a save for the Wildcats. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River goalie Morgan Lesiewicz deflects the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park forward Victoria Menzies pushes upfield. Phot by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis breaks toward the goal. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River sophomore Olivia Pesso looks to settle the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River defender Johanna Ochsenfeld heads the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River sophomore Olivia Pesso traps the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Kings Park junior Gianna Zawol clears the ball upfield. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis scores off a penalty shot. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River sophomore Mia Mangano clears the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Bella Sweet clears the ball. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis her second goal of the game. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis her second goal of the game. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis her second goal of the game. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River goalie Morgan Lesiewicz with another save. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River senior Grace Hillis takes flight. Photo by Bill Landon
Shoreham-Wading River freshman Shealyn Varbero flies over Kings Park goalie Alex Scott. Photo by Bill Landon
Bella Sweet, left, goes head-to-head with Kings Park defender Megan Kearny. Photo by Bill Landon
Meet your new Suffolk County Class A champions. Photo by Bill Landon
Meet your new Suffolk County Class A champions. Photo by Bill Landon
Meet your new Suffolk County Class A champions. Photo by Bill Landon
Meet your new Suffolk County Class A champions. Photo by Bill Landon

Kings Park ended their regular season atop the Division III leaderboard having suffered its only league loss to Shoreham-Wading River back in September. The Lady Kingsmen looked to settle that score in the Suffolk Class A championship final with a rematch with the Wildcats at Diamond in the Pines Wednesday night Nov. 1.

After a scoreless first half, it was Shoreham-Wading River’s Grace Hillis who would write the Kings Park epitaph first with a 30-yard free kick that found its way in the upper far corner of the net. Then the senior scored the insurance goal 11 minutes later. Despite a ferocious late-game surge by the Lady Kingsmen that kept Wildcat goalie Morgan Lesiewicz busy the rest of the way, Shoreham-Wading River prevailed with a 2-0 victory.

Lesiewicz finished with seven saves in the win to punch the Wildcats ticket to the Long Island Championship round where they faced Plainedge on Saturday, Nov. 4. Yet again the Wildcats rose to the occasion with another 2-0 victory to advance to the New York State championship round in Cortland Nov. 11.

— Photos by Bill Landon

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Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, left, and Marty Buchman, a member of the board of the New York Bicycling Association. Photo from Bellone’s Flickr page

Suffolk County’s transportation network may soon undergo significant transformation.

In 2020, the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning published its Hike and Bike Master Plan, which calls for 1,200 miles of new pedestrian and biking infrastructure countywide.

To mark Car Free Day on Friday, Sept. 22, county officials joined transit advocates along a bike path in Kings Park, announcing a new program to achieve the goals of this master plan through intermunicipal coordination.

“Today on Car Free Day, I am proud to announce that we are taking our Hike-Bike Master Plan further, taking additional steps to create a safe and comfortable biking environment in Suffolk County,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone (D).

The new program, GEAR — Guidance for Enhancing Active Recreation — Up Suffolk, will authorize the county’s Department of Economic Development and Planning to provide free technical and design assistance to municipalities to implement active transportation projects. This undertaking aims to help Suffolk’s towns and villages expand trail access by reconfiguring local roadways.

While various trail networks already exist, Bellone said the GEAR Up initiative could help “fill in the gaps” between existing trail infrastructure.

“Where are the gaps? They’re roads,” he said. “In many cases — most cases even — they’re local roads.”

Bellone said the county government seeks to offer conceptual and preliminary designs, conducted in coordination with local municipalities, tailored to meet a community’s needs. 

These proposals may include corridor designs, bike lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, curb extensions and flashing beacons, among other design elements.

“We want to create an interconnected biking and hiking network that you can use [to] travel across the county,” Bellone said.

Marty Buchman, a member of the board of the New York Bicycling Association, pointed to the deficiencies of past planning and its impacts today on local communities.

“Suffolk County was never designed for the amount of population that it contains right now,” he said. “The roads were designed for a rural county,” adding, “The situation of cars in Suffolk County is going to get worse.”

Buchman advocated for planners and municipalities to view the bicycle as an alternative to the automobile. He suggested trails could help alleviate several of the challenges drivers experience on roadways.

“I’d like to see more paths — not just recreational paths but paths for transportation,” he said, advising “that a bicycle be looked at as more than just a fitness tool or an outdoors tool but a way for people to get from point A to point B.”

He added, “That’s not going to happen without the required or needed infrastructure.”

Bellone outlined multiple benefits of expanding trail access, such as environmental protection, economic development and downtown revitalization.

Amid escalating fears of a youth exodus from Long Island, Bellone said promoting alternative modes of transit can help the county retain and attract young people.

“We are in a competition for innovators, young people, entrepreneurs and skilled workers,” the county executive said. “We want them living in our downtowns. We want them raising their families here because that will bring more jobs, businesses and sustainable economic growth.”

“You get that when you make investments in the things that improve people’s quality of life,” he added.

Buchman referred to hiking and biking infrastructure as an apolitical policy area: “This is not a political issue,” the transit advocate said. “Republicans ride. Democrats ride. People ride.”

In achieving the goals of the master plan, Bellone said intergovernmental collaboration would remain crucial while working toward the objectives of the 2020 master plan. 

“Having an interconnected hiking and biking network throughout Suffolk County helps every community and family across the county,” he said.

The county will accept applications for the GEAR Up program on a rolling basis.

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