Home Village Beacon Record

Update: Police seek man wanted for the fatal stabbing of his father in Rocky Point

by Press Release - November 18, 2024

0 1378

0-9 — Have you seen Matthew Zoll? Photo from SCPD

Second update:

Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives released a statement on Nov. 18 that said they believe Matthew Zoll crashed a black GMC Yukon SUV at the intersection of 25A and the William Floyd Parkway on November 9 at approximately 1:35 a.m. Detectives believe Zoll suffered injuries from the crash.

The GMC Yukon was impounded.

Anyone with information on Zoll’s location is asked to call 911, the Homicide Squad at 631-852- 6392 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.

Below is the original release and first update.

Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to locate Matthew Zoll, who is wanted for the murder of his father, Joseph Zoll.

Matthew Zoll, 23, is white, 6 feet 1 inch tall, 150 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. Zoll, who has a small scar under his left eye, is not believed to have a vehicle.

Matthew Zoll was last in the news in April of 2024 when the Suffolk County Police announced that he was missing from a Sound Beach residence and issued a Silver Alert. At the time, police said that Matthew Zoll suffered from schizophrenia and needed his medication. He was found the next day.

Anyone with information on Matthew Zoll’s location is asked to call 911, the Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.

Below is the original release.
Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives are investigating a stabbing that killed a man in Rocky Point on Nov. 9.

Seventh Precinct officers responded to a residence on Quail Road at approximately 1:25 a.m. after a 911 caller reported a stabbing at the location.

When officers arrived, they located a man stabbed. Joseph Zoll, 61, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on this incident, to call the Homicide Squad at 631-852-
6392 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.

Young minds code their way to STEM skills at Miller Avenue School

by Press Release - November 18, 2024

0 400

1 of 4

Students in kindergarten through second grade at Shoreham-Wading River’s Miller Avenue School participated in an engaging activity that introduced them to computer science as they collaborated to code Indi robot vehicles.

Working in the school library with Eastern Suffolk BOCES Model Schools coach Carrie McGuire and library media specialist Brittany LaValle, the imaginative play-based learning experience empowered students to brainstorm ways to build their own mazes while enhancing computational thinking skills.

“Educationally, I witnessed the highest levels of student engagement in problem-solving as they learned sequential programming through a fun activity,” said Dr. Joe Paolicelli, Shoreham-Wading River’s director of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON: Polar Plunge returns to Cedar Beach Nov. 23

by Heidi Sutton - November 18, 2024

0 566

Special-Olympics-polar-plunge-freezin-4-reason-112021-Mt-Sinai-Cedar-Beach-Landon-6281-700x466 — Special Olympics Polar Plunge at Cedar Beach in Mt. Sinai in 2023. Photo by Bill Landon

Hundreds of brave Special Olympics New York supporters are expected to participate in the 15th annual Polar Plunge: Freezin’ for a Reason at Cedar Beach, 244 Hrbor Beach Road, Mount Sinai on Saturday, Nov. 23, running into the freezing waters of the Long Island Sound to raise funds and awareness for local Special Olympics athletes and programming.

Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. and the plunge will take place at 11:30 a.m.

Hosted by the Town of Brookhaven, last year’s event attracted 650 plungers and raised $140,000 for Special Olympics New York.

The Polar Plunge is one of the most popular, profitable, and exciting fundraisers for Special Olympics New York. Participants raise money by asking friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances for donations.

At a recent Brookhaven Town Board Meeting, Councilwoman Jane Bonner introduced New York Special Olympics athlete Matt Schuster and Director of Development, Alexis Dawson who talked about the annual Polar Plunge and encouraged people to participate and pledge a donation.

Councilwoman Bonner presented Schuster and Dawson with a proclamation declaring September 28 as Special Olympics Day in the Town of Brookhaven. Schuster also spoke about what it takes to compete and succeed as a Special Olympics athlete, explaining that they train for weeks and months to prepare for local, regional and statewide competition.

Athletes are supported by more than 5,000 coaches and 4,300 volunteers and are never charged to participate in the programs. It costs $400 to support training and competition for one athlete for one sports season. They rely solely on donations to pay the cost.

For more information, to register or to donate, please visit www.specialolympics.org. For additional information, call 631-386-8038.

Thanksgiving food distribution for Suffolk veterans scheduled for Nov. 21

by Heidi Sutton - November 18, 2024

0 666

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.

Editorial: Saluting the silent strength behind every veteran

by TBR Staff - November 16, 2024

0 729

A scene from the 2024 Setauket Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Each year, November 11 reminds us to thank our military.

The day was born on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month — a moment in which the world paused. This was the moment the armistice that ended World War I was signed. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it Armistice Day, a tribute to peace hard-won. Over time, it evolved into what we now know as Veterans Day, but the poignance of that date endures.

Around our coverage areas, numerous celebrations, ceremonies and breakfasts were held honoring the supreme sacrifice of those men and women who were prepared to die for our nation. The ceremonies TBR was fortunate to cover were attended by those young and old. Political differences were nowhere to be found and everyone present wore a genuine smile.

But, TBR would like to take a moment to recognize the often-unsung heroes of Veterans Day — the families of our veterans. While servicemen and women make the sacrifice by enlisting, their families serve as steadfast supporters at home. From moving base to base and enrolling children in different schools to managing the unique challenges of military life, these families make a profound sacrifice, bearing the weight of service as much as, if not more than, the soldiers themselves.

The constant worry, stress and uncertainty make for a challenging journey, yet military families remain the pillars of support and sanctuary that their loved ones long to return to. This unwavering support reassures service members that their decision to enlist was not in vain — that there is something vital to protect at home. Without the resilience and strength of these families and communities, the lives of our servicemen and women could unravel.

So please, thank our veterans. Extend a hand of gratitude for their sacrifice. But don’t forget to show compassion to their families, as well.

Suffolk County D.A.: Connecticut Charter Captain convicted of illegal commercial fishing in New York waters

by Press Release - November 15, 2024

0 744

Michael Tenedine Poached Protected Black Sea Bass without a License

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Nov. 15 that Michael Tenedine, 58, of East Haven, Connecticut, was found guilty after a trial of Operating a Charter Vessel without a Permit and Illegal Possession of Black Sea Bass for poaching and possessing Black Sea Bass, a protected species due to overfishing. The trial conviction comes as District Attorney Tierney ramps up his “Everblue Initiative” – a collaboration with state and local law enforcement to protect the more than 60% of Suffolk County square mileage that is water.

“We have a duty to protect Suffolk County’s vital ecosystems from disrespect and ruin,” said District Attorney Tierney. “My Everblue Initiative will ensure that future generations will enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, and exploring all that this county has to offer. This conviction is the latest example of what happens to those who selfishly seek to profit off of our natural heritage.”

The evidence at trial established that in June 2024, Tenedine captained the Connecticut-based charter vessel “Lucky Hook” from Connecticut into New York with a group of customer-fares on board. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Police found Tenedine circling in New York waters in the Long Island Sound near Mattituck.

The DEC determined that Tenedine was operating a charter vessel without a New York license, and, at the time of their boarding, was found to be in the unlawful possession of 30 Black Sea Bass during a closed season. As a result of extensive overfishing, the possession of Black Sea Bass is prohibited by law during certain times of the year to ensure the survival of the species.

On November 13, Tenedine was convicted of Operating a Charter Vessel Without a Permit and Unlawful Possession of Black Sea Bass after a bench trial heard before Southold Town Justice Court Judge Eileen Powers. Both charges are violations under the New York Environmental Conservation Law. Tenedine was sentenced to maximum fines and surcharges totaling over $3,250, which will go directly into the state’s conservation fund.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jeremy Williams of the Biological, Environmental, and Animal Safety Team, with investigative assistance from members of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

To report illegal fishing activity, please visit SuffolkCountyNY.gov/DA and follow the prompt to report environmental crimes on the “Contact Us” screen.

Shoreham-Wading River girls soccer punches ticket to NYS finals

by Bill Landon - November 14, 2024

0 633

1 of 15

By Bill Landon

The Shoreham-Wading River Wildcats, unafraid to shoot, rifled five shots on goal that were near misses before Mia Mangano broke the ice with a shot to the corner of the net 11 minutes into the second half in the Long Island Class A championship game Sunday afternoon at Farmingdale State College.

Ten minutes later, Olivia Pesso dished the ball to Shealyn Varbero, who headed it to the back of the net for a 2-0 lead over Wantagh, the Nassau County champion — a score that would stand until the final horn. Senior goalie Morgan Lesiewicz had a quiet day in net with two saves.

The win propels the Wildcats to their second consecutive New York State championship appearance in the semifinals Saturday, Nov. 16, at Cortland High School. The Wildcats will face Pittsford Mendon with hopes of advancing to the final round the following day.

– Photos by Bill Landon

Shoreham-Wading River football falls to Miller Place

by Bill Landon - November 14, 2024

0 496

1 of 14

By Bill Landon

The Shoreham-Wading River football team aimed to avenge a late-season loss to Miller Place in the opening round of the Division IV playoffs, but a win for the Wildcats wasn’t in the cards. Miller Place quarterback Shane Kiernan and wide receiver Dennis James Williamson proved to be a potent combination, connecting three times for touchdown scores covering 88 yards. Miller Place defensive back Ethan Monaco’s interception and 20-yard return put the Panthers ahead 22-0 at halftime.

The Wildcats managed to get on the board when Brendan Friedlander found freshman wide receiver Gavin Cleary late in the third quarter, but the Wildcat offense stalled the rest of the way as the Panthers won 36-12.

The Wildcats conclude the 2024 season with a 4-5 record. Miller Place, the No. 3 seed, advances to the semifinals, where they will face the No. 2 seed Babylon on Friday, Nov. 15. Kickoff is at 6 p.m.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Miller Place BOE discusses enhanced security measures

by Katherine Kelton - November 14, 2024

0 676

MillerPlaceHighSchoolw — Photos courtesy Miller Place UFSD

By Katherine Kelton

The Miller Place Union Free School District Board of Education met on Oct. 30 and discussed the many approved constructions of the schools, ranging from elementary to high school. They also addressed school changes following a threat against the high school.

Superintendent Seth Lipshie shared safety plans for the school district, including using explosion detection canine searches at the high school and North Country Road Middle School. The searches will be unannounced.

Additionally, the district has employed armed guards at stations outside of each school. To enter any building, a person must have administrative permission and identification.

All staff will complete two tutorials: School Safety for New York and Student Mental Health. During the year, each school will have four lockdown drills.

For the Be Heard portion of the meeting, three concerned parents spoke about the threat against the school a week before the meeting, yet parents were not notified for days following. One parent said, “There’s really no excuse, in my opinion, for the fact that we were not notified last week.”

Another parent proposed that a committee review the Code of Conduct, including the word “threat,” as a violation against the school. She also wanted to develop a crisis management plan.

President Lisa Reitan also addressed a Be Heard from the last meeting, where a parent spoke about the summer assignments for AP and Honors classes. Reitan stated, “The district is compiling data about assigning summer projects for AP and Honors classes.” Many other high schools around Long Island, including Ward Melville, have been doing away with summer assignments due to parental complaints.

Trustee John Galligan attended the New York State Department of Education online meeting where regionalization was introduced. The department hopes to incentivize interdistrict cooperation over sharing education resources, such as the BOCES program. Although BOCES is already a shared resource for many Long Island schools, regionalization would provide subsidies for such schools.

Regionalization plans are to be created every five years. The first draft of the school planning process was due Nov. 1 and will be implemented in the 2026-2027 school year. The Department of Education also stated that there would be no attempt to consolidate school districts, something Reitan is concerned about. She said, “The biggest con is local control. We are Miller Place, y’know.”

School Business Official Colleen Card spoke about the recently approved revitalizations of the district’s schools. Most significant are the plans for Miller Place High School: a ventilation system, a new art room and showers for the boys’ locker room. Andrew Muller Primary School is wrapping up construction on the gymnasium with an upcoming fire marshal inspection. Andrew Muller also finished building a kindergarten playground. Laddie A. Decker Sound Beach School recently installed a ventilation system as well.

Lipshie also recapped the district’s celebrations and news. The Safe Halloween event, held at the high school, was a great success at raising funds for the Miller Place UFSD. Boy’s varsity soccer earned a play-off qualification. Girls field hockey won the Division 2 Regular Season Championship and is now 16-2.

In upcoming events, Lipshie highlighted the sixth- and seventh-grade dance, the Miller Place Driver’s Safety Program, winter sports starting on Nov. 18 for the high school and Nov. 4 for the middle school and college admissions workshops. More information about the events can be found on the Miller Place School District website (www,millerplace.k12.ny.us).

The next BOE meeting will be Nov. 20, at approximately 8 p.m., at the Miller Place High School. — Photos courtesy Miller Place UFSD

Town of Brookhaven announces increased enforcement on illegal housing

by Press Release - November 14, 2024

0 1183

Screenshot — Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (R) at the Nov. 4 press conference. Photo courtesy TOB

On Nov. 4, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico (R) announced a new initiative to strengthen enforcement against illegal housing, which includes increased fines for rental permit violations aimed at repeat offenders. The effort seeks to enhance housing safety and compliance across Brookhaven, addressing the negative impact of illegal rentals on neighborhood quality of life.

“Our goal is code compliance to ensure Brookhaven remains a place where people live in clean, safe neighborhoods,” Panico stated. “We’re going to break the slumlord business model, with exponentially higher fines through robust enforcement.”

The announcement took place at a press conference at Brookhaven Town Hall, attended by all six Town Council members, Suffolk County Legislators James Mazzarella (R-Mastic,) Nick Caracappa (C-Selden) and Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue,) as well as civic leaders from across Brookhaven.

The new fines will include increased penalties for violations of the Neighborhood Preservation Code and Zoning Code, such as operating a rental without a registration permit and failing to obtain required building permits. These measures aim to discourage landlords from viewing violations as simply a cost of doing business.

Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook) highlighted the impact of the higher fines. “For too many irresponsible landlords, the relatively low cost of fines has just been part of the cost of doing business,” he said. “By raising the minimum fine, we hope to deter abusive landlords, protect tenant rights and safety, and improve quality of life in our neighborhoods.”

Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point) echoed this sentiment, noting, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is a top priority. Stronger enforcement isn’t just about fines; it’s about safe neighborhoods, protecting residents from unsafe conditions, and preserving the integrity of our town.”

Councilman Michael Loguercio (R-Ridge) emphasized the safety risks. “Some of these housing violations are major safety issues that can very easily cause fire, injury or death. By addressing violators, we protect communities and save lives.”

Suffolk County Legislators voiced their support. Mazzarella stated, “Suffolk County is committed to working with Brookhaven to address quality of life concerns with substandard housing and code violations. We will explore legislation to ensure those receiving county assistance live in safe conditions that comply with all local ordinances and codes.”

“We have to crack down on that. These steps the town is taking today to increase fines are a big step.” Thorne also commended the effort, saying, “This is a welcome cooperative effort on the part of the town and county, and I applaud the program to deter our neighbors from breaking the law,” Caracappa added.

Community leaders expressed their support as well. Frank Fugarino from the Pattersquash Civic Association said, “We welcome this effort and commend the Town for this initiative at both the Town and County level,” while Kareem Nugdalla from the Coram Civic Association called it “a very good first step to improve the quality of life in Coram.”

Deputy Supervisor and Councilman Neil Foley (R-Blue Point) and Councilman Neil Manzella (R-Selden) both noted the town has streamlined the rental compliance process.

“It’s disheartening to see both first-time and repeat offenders undermining the efforts of responsible property owners,” Manzella said.

Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig (R-Manorville) shared an outlook on next steps, stating, “I look forward to the Nov. 19 public hearing, where the town board will adopt the resolution to significantly increase fines for these illegal rentals.”

Acting Commissioner of Public Safety David Moran praised the town’s actions, adding, “Raising these quality-of-life violation fines is a great step in the right direction to protect our residents’ quality of life.”

“The good people we represent are our best eyes and ears in our communities, and those are the people we serve,” he said.

“We are grateful to our County partners who are reviewing potential changes at the County level dealing with Department of Social Services (DSS) housing.”

Visit brookhavenny.gov and brookhavenny.gov/housing, for more information.

Prev 1...272829...514 Next

Page 28 of 514