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Village Beacon Record

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The Atlantic horseshoe crab. Public domain photo

By  Emily Mandracchia

In response to the alarming overharvesting and endangerment of horseshoe crabs on Long Island, conservationist John Turner of Seatuck is launching a groundbreaking fall project to create a lab-based, sustainable bait alternative — one he hopes will protect both marine life and local fishing livelihoods.

Horseshoe crabs are commonly used as bait for whelk, a carnivorous snail, and eel fishing; there are minimal measures currently in place to prevent over-harvesting. Long Island’s shore birds and migratory birds rely on horseshoe crab eggs for protein. Inhabiting as far north and south as Nova Scotia and Mexico, Horseshoe crab eggs are an essential food source for migrating shorebirds, fish and benthic (bottom-dwelling) species. Further, they are food sources for loggerhead sea turtles. Even sparrows feast upon their protein-rich eggs. 

Turner said these “very significant crabs”  linger on the sound’s floor, thereby increasing turbidity and stirring up a variety of food sources for other species. 

The consequences of horseshoe crab endangerment is not limited to our island’s coastal populations; they are most valuable to humans for their blood proteins which are extremely sensitive to bacteria, making them an effective reagent. 

The extracted compound, known as Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL), acts as an indicator on screen-injected drugs and implanted biomedical devices for detecting gram-negative bacteria — Turner cites as a huge reason to thank these spider-legged creatures. Unfortunately, according to The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, the mortality rate of these crabs, once released back into the wild, can surpass 30%. 

In terms of policy, Turner states that extremely small-scale measures may be decided by local jurisdiction. In the past, harvesting quotas have been instituted, reaching 150,000 crabs per year per location, as specified by the Department of Environmental Conservation.

But Turner says this is no solution, nor is it sustainable. 150,000 is a great number when considering how horseshoe crabs were exponentially more abundant in the past, especially because just one bird may rely upon hundreds out of a 4,000-egg nest to migrate — causing a ripple effect across the food chain. Humans are not exempt from the effects of wildlife endangerment.

Alongside the DEC, the Cornell Cooperative Extension and Stony Brook University, Turner’s project expected to launch this fall will craft lab-effective bait, which also must be cost and yield-dependent for fishers who participate in the trial.

Even still, stricter measures are necessary in keeping the horseshoe crab population abundant and thriving. Turner cited possible four five-day bans around new and full moons in May and June where harvesting is illegal so the crabs may spawn and disseminate uninterrupted, or total closings at certain locations. The DEC describes that sampling for taking population estimates would be conducted around these optimal moon phase and tide stage to indicate trends in horseshoe crab population.

Former closures have suggested that it takes between 8-10 years before changes in abundance of spawning-aged crabs are observed as a result of these management changes by the DEC, and an increase in adult horseshoe crab abundance is expected to begin in 2028.

State legislatures are still capable of vetoing these stricter conservation measures, as the  DEC’s overall goal is to improve the stock status of horseshoe crabs in the New York region over time while still maintaining use of the species, specifically “ecosystem services, commercial harvest and observation and appreciation.” 

Regardless, Turner remains cautiously optimistic as new, more serious regulatory policies for quotas or commercial banning still have a chance to be passed if conservation groups are persistent. 

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Photo by Raymond Janis

Nonprofits and the car show community?

Recently, I attended the Drive for Dana car show at the Smithhaven Mall. The strength and support of the car community that comes out to support a charity is incredible. Every weekend, actually every night of the week, there are shows. On many nights there are multiple events at different spots on Long Island. They are free to attend as a spectator and at regular events free to show your car. But wait until it’s about a charity. More cars arrive, more money is raised and at the Drive for Dana event more auction items are bought.

I have been promoting the idea of a motorsports park on Long Island. Currently, I have been assisting with public relations and announcing. As we enter the fifth year of racing in Calverton it has become very clear that the car, race car, show car, high-performance street car community is very strong. Besides the generosity seen at the car shows, there is an amazing amount of driving skills shown.

It’s definitely a feel-good story when monies are raised for a charity, but that’s only a portion of the story.

Long Island’s history and development of auto racing has led to many careers. We have seen some drivers move on to the professional level. Years ago, Steve Park enjoyed racing in Nascar, and today we have Justin Ashley running a Top Fuel Dragster.

The racing we enjoy at Calverton on the 7,000-foot runway that Grumman used when they were on Long island hosting drag racing (most cars are street legal, Drifting), the cars have more safety equipment than many others and Go-karts. From the cute 5-year olds to the much older that race around the country and a few even beyond that.

Long Island at one point had multiple circle tracks (now we have one), multiple drag-racing facilities and even a road course track that held a Formula One race. Are the race tracks as strong as they once were? No. Is the car community as far reaching as it once was? From what I see at these car shows and race events, it may not be as big, but there is a huge interest. The positives are community, careers and the economic benefit.

Brian Cohen

Three Village

DA Tierney, elder parole, redemption and compassion 

A few weeks ago Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney released a powerful statement warning of dangers he sees lurking in the Second Look Act, Earned Time Act, and Elder Parole Act.  

He said, “These measures, cloaked as compassionate reforms, prioritize criminals over the security of law-abiding New Yorkers and, in the process, once again drag grieving families and victims into a never-ending cycle of parole hearings and reconsideration of previously imposed sentences, for the sole purpose of drastically reducing sentences for violent, dangerous offenders.”

Specifically mentioning the Elder Parole Act, Tierney continued, ”This bill grants automatic parole hearings every two years to inmates who are 55 and older, and who have served 15 years in prison, regardless of the crime they were convicted of. Murderers, rapists, even cop killers would get a shot at freedom just for aging behind bars. This bill eliminates life without parole for serial and mass murderers.”  

Hoping for redemption is a noble goal, but how that “hope” is viewed by loved ones grieving their murdered law enforcement family members should be taken into consideration.  Over the last 8 years they’ve been forced to witness 43 convicted killers released from prison. 

NYS legislators considering voting for this bill should speak to the mothers, daughters, wives, husbands or children of these fallen heroes.  State pols must show proper respect and consideration for these victims.

How about offering those innocents something other than the continued heartbreaking prospect of reliving the tragic loss of loved ones every 24 months.  

New York State currently has 16 members sitting on the parole board.  There’s room for 3 more.  Let’s offer one or more of those spots to relatives trying to overcome their tragic loss.  Given that great hardship, it would seem they’ve earned a properly weighted voice in this discussion.  Perhaps some of the current 16 could gain a new and better understanding of how difficult a prisoner’s release can be on those surviving their loss. 

Our highly respected, local DA, Ray Tierney, looks to seek justice not vengeance for victims who’ve suffered at the hands of criminals.  He is on the front lines dealing with the aftermath of some truly heinous crimes.  Tierney consoles those harmed while prosecuting those charged.  His warnings should not be taken lightly.

If memory serves, much of disgraced Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s (D) “criminal justice reforms” were sold on the lofty theme of redemption.  If these kinds of grand ideas are going to be tried, we cannot forget those whose lives are devastated, when those grand ideas horribly fail them.  At the very least, they’re innocent victims worthy of our compassion.  

Jim Soviero

Setauket

In response to Drew Biondo’s letter from June 5 edition of TBR

He may call it “silly season,” but spreading misinformation, spin, and false claims isn’t silly, it’s dishonest. Port Jefferson deserves facts, not political games or distractions from real issues.

Let’s set the record straight on PASSPort, a first-of-its-kind municipal rideshare service created for Port Jefferson. Like every other municipal transit program in the country, it wasn’t meant to turn a profit. It was about accessibility, safety and smarter mobility. It worked, residents used it, and they appreciated it. On May 1, 2023, then Trustee Lauren Sheprow voted in favor of PASSPort, along with the entire Board of Trustees. She even requested a test ride and had only positive things to say. Now to attack the program she helped approve isn’t just disingenuous, it’s political.

Regarding the ballot issue, Mayor Sheprow was removed not by opponents but by the Board of Elections for failing to properly complete and file her own petitions, a basic, legal requirement every candidate must meet.

Let me be clear, neither I nor anyone from my campaign has ever created or used a fake social media profile. I’ve run this campaign the way I’ve served, openly and with integrity. 

Yes, I was asked by the village to use my photography to help promote the Dickens Festival. It was discussed in public meetings, disclosed to our auditor, and unanimously approved by the board where I recused myself. The images remain village property and continue to support our most cherished community event.

While Mr. Biondo claims I’ve been “disengaged,” I’ve continued serving our community through volunteer work, civic participation and staying connected with residents. Leadership isn’t just about holding office; it’s about consistent service.

As for the Maryhaven project, our process was transparent with full disclosure and open dialogue from day 1. We held a public meeting where the developer’s request was thoroughly explained. Contrast that with what we learned from another developer, who said Mayor Sheprow promised him annexation approval a year ago, something the public didn’t hear about until March 2025, only after a resident discovered it. That’s not transparency.

What should also concern us are closed-door executive sessions used for questionable purposes. 

Port Jefferson deserves true transparency and open government led by a mayor who will stand for honesty, accountability and integrity. That’s what I’ve delivered, and that’s what I’ll continue to fight for.

Kathianne Snaden

Port Jefferson

Armed guards have no place in schools

On Thursday, June 5, parents in the Three Village Central School District received what was deemed a “survey “ regarding the possibility of placing armed guards on our school campuses.  My first quarrel is with the ridiculous assertion that what we received was not so much a “survey” but a very lazy two-question attempt to assuage the minority of individuals that are demanding guns at our schools. Parents were simply asked what school their child/children attend(s) and if they are in favor of armed security.  This is how we’re going to decide whether our children go to school with guns in their buildings?  This is the best effort our school district could make on this highly volatile and incredibly important subject?

My second dispute is one I have previously voiced, guns have NO PLACE on school grounds.  Arming security guards is the hot talking point for those who ignorantly believe that this move will make one bit of difference in the extremely minimal possibility of a violent occurrence at one of our schools.  The safety of our children in school is a top priority, but there is zero proof that arming security is the solution to deterring an episode of violence.  There are, however, several studies proving just the opposite, that the presence of armed guards in school settings has invited and/or intensified the violence committed.  I ask those who continue to advocate for this change to actually research what happened in Parkland and Uvalde, two of the most horrific school shootings our country has ever experienced and realize that no lives were saved by their armed guards.  As a matter of fact, these good guys with guns literally caused more controversy and disruption.

The armed guard crusaders need a strong dose of reality.  The district has already invested in a new security system in response to our unfortunate incident in October.  [In October 2024, a student at Ward Melville High School brought a backpack with a weapon inside, which they took by mistake. The student’s parents were in law enforcement.] Thankfully, Long Island has been spared any instances of mass gun violence in our schools and hopefully it will remain that way.  Our one scary situation was handled professionally and transparently, but this analysis via survey of the latest campaign for change is just an apathetic attempt to mitigate the loud voices of those who scream first and read never.  Our new system of detection is more than sufficient for the safety of those in our buildings, students and staff.  If someone truly wants to cause harm in one of our school buildings that person will most likely make something happen.  Armed security guards, whether inside or outside of our schools will not hinder their actions but will add to the chaos.  I certainly do not begrudge any parent the feeling of safety and security when a child is in an academic setting, but before jumping on the bandwagon I suggest that every parent take a long, hard look at past responses to incidents in our buildings and think about how they would feel if the guns we put in the schools got into the wrong hands.  This is a far heftier debate than those two questions on a survey.  I will never support weapons on school grounds and will continue to advocate against any and all attempts to do so.

Stefanie Werner

Setauket

The UNneighborly House

Ever since we moved to this community 55 years ago, the Setauket Neighborhood House has been a wonderful community resource.  We’ve attended birthday parties, memorial services, club meetings and art shows and have always felt comfortable and safe as we met with our friends and neighbors.   In view of this, I was appalled to hear that every event is now being video and audio taped by the Neighborhood House.  When one has a meeting there among friends, it is assumed that it is private and not under surveillance.  Women doing yoga feel comfortable among themselves but don’t want to be watched by others, and clubs may meet to discuss sensitive topics that they don’t want shared outside of their circle.  There is little need for this internal surveillance to protect the house and I encourage the board to terminate the taping and to trust our neighbors who use the house to value and protect this great community resource.  

I encourage others in the community to let the Setauket Neighborhood House Board know how they feel about this audio and video taping of their meetings.  

Gene Sprouse

South Setauket

Correction : The article, “Rally at Harbor Road”, which appeared in the June 5th issue, incorrectly stated that Brookhaven found a title report signed by Gloria Rocchio. In fact, Brookhaven comissioned the title report. The document with Rocchio’s signature was an easement contract.

WRITE TO US … AND KEEP IT LOCAL  

We welcome your letters, especially those responding to our local coverage, replying to other letter writers’ comments and speaking mainly to local themes. Letters should be no longer than 400 words and may be edited for length, libel, style, good taste and uncivil language. They will also be published on our website. We do not publish anonymous letters. Please include an address and phone number for confirmation. Email letters to: [email protected] or mail them to TBR News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733

 

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Pixabay photo

By Daniel Dunaief

Daniel Dunaief

Why do we go to baseball games? Oooh, pick me! Pick me! I can answer. Of course you can. You’re writing this piece. Okay, let’s talk about the appeal of baseball.

First of all, there’s the potential for anything baseball related to happen. I might see a triple play, a no hitter, a perfect game, four home runs in a row, eight consecutive strike outs, or something other collections of fans have either never seen or rarely witnessed.

We recently attended a minor league game in which two runners scored on a sacrifice fly to deep center field.

Baseball is an endless series of what-if moments, as in, what if the batter hits the ball to third base with runners on first and third and one out. Is it hit hard enough for a double play based on the speed of the runners, the score at the time, and the movement of the runner on third?

The combination of athleticism and strength bring different qualities to the game. Sure, people who are big and muscular can hit a ball hard, but can they get a good jump when they’re running from first or second base, can they cover a larger strike zone, and can they be satisfied with a single or double instead of a towering home run?

Then, there’s the aesthetic appeal of the stadiums, with bright lines going out from home plate to the outfield, defined base paths, and a shimmering outfield grass (if it’s real grass), where fleet-footed fielders race to track down balls.

Two questions immediately occur to me as I reach my seat. The first is how good the view is relative to the field. Can I see pitches clearly? Can I track balls from home plate to all parts of the field?

The second is whether I’m in prime foul ball territory. Admittedly, that’s a tougher question to answer, especially with all the screens that have now gone up around the infield. 

There is something about balls flung from these fields of dreams that imbues them with a power far in excess of their raw materials. Is it the perfect weight in our hands? Is it the feel of the gently raised seams? Or, perhaps, it’s the combination of the white hard outer layer, the red seams, and the blue from the logo, the official major league baseball lettering and the signature of current commissioner Robert Manfred, Jr.

Sure, free stuff in general is fun to catch, but something about these baseballs makes bringing them home particularly rewarding, giving us a physical connection to the game.

Maybe it’s the stories we can tell about how the baseball came from a particular hitter or a specific game. Or maybe the balls, like the game itself, contain within them the power of the what-if.

Have you ever seen people after they’ve caught a ball at a game? They can’t help smiling, often examining it closely, as they look for where a bat struck it or where it rolled across the grass or dirt. 

Tossing a ball to a particularly vociferous or angry fan could serve as a pacifier. Yeah, your team is losing by 12 runs, and yes, you could have done a better job at everything because you’re that much more knowledgeable about the game than everyone else, but you have a baseball in your hand. How cool is that?

The balls from America’s pastime are like us. They may have similar qualities or look and feel the same, but they can and will be unique in and of themselves and as a part of a game. They could be the central part of a double play, the main character soaring through the air on a walk off home run, or the 18th pitch of a tremendous 21 pitch at bat.

These balls carry magic and hope. 

And, yes, if you’re wondering why I’m so rhapsodic, I caught a ball at the aforementioned minor league game. A third base coach knocked down a foul ball and tossed it directly at me in the stands. When I caught it, I handed it to my daughter, excited to share this small piece of baseball and personal history with my family and now with you. It’s just a ball and yet it’s so much more.

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METRO photo

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief,
Publisher

Wednesday was National Corn on the Cob Day, and when I saw that, I began to salivate because I love that vegetable. We are now coming into the season when the kernels are sweet with or without butter and salt. 

Everyone eats corn differently, it seems, if you watch people devouring the offering. I bite the corn from the cob as if I were using an old fashioned typewriter, meaning in a single row from left to right. I’ll eat one row, then go back, as if I were slinging a typewriter carriage to the next line, and chew straight above the first.

Others turn the cob so that they are eating in a circular fashion, one circle precisely after the other in a geometric display. Still others just plow right in, chewing wherever their teeth land. They eventually clean off the whole cob.

I guess one could tell a lot about the corn eater’s personality by watching the pattern of consumption from the cob.

My favorite corn on the cob story takes place in the late 1940s on a freezing January day. My dad, who grew up in the mountains and loved the cold, brisk air, would put on his heavy winter coat and take my mother, my brother, my sister and me to Coney Island. 

It was always on a Sunday, when he had off from work. The ride tickled my mother, who thought it was an extraordinary price on the subway for the same 15 cent token that one paid just to go one stop, so that typically would be part of the conversation on the trip to Brooklyn from our apartment in Midtown Manhattan. 

When we emerged from underground, the wind and cold would initially take our breaths away, but before long, we acclimated. We followed my dad down to the beach and watched the wild waves plunge into the shore with a roar and lots of foam, then recede meekly only to repeat the fury. It was Nature showing its dramatic face.

It was also intensely cold.

After a few minutes of beach walking, we would head toward Nathan’s Hot Dog stand, one of the few stores open in the winter. This one Sunday, we were in for a surprise. In the narrow alley between Nathan’s and the next building was a man with a cauldron on what I guess was an electric burner, steam pouring from the pot. As we drew near, we could see butter, salt and napkins on the stand.

When my dad cleared a hole in the steam and peered into the pot, he expressed some happy surprise. “Where did you get corn on the cob in January?” he queried the man holding the tongs.

“They are in the frozen food section of some of the supermarkets,” the man explained. Frozen foods were just beginning to appear in markets at that time.

“Do they taste the same?” my dad asked.

“Try one,” the fellow offered and plucked one from the boiling water, putting it on a piece of white paper.

When it had cooled enough to bite into the cob, my dad approved the purchase and we all ate those steaming corn with butter and salt, crowding around the cauldron for warmth. I still remember those corn as the sweetest as any I had ever tasted in the summer. 

Besides, they warmed my hands.

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File photo

Update on June 10: The man found deceased in an East Shoreham pool on May 25 has been positively identified as Matthew Zoll. Zoll’s cause of death has yet to be determined.

Below is the original press release:

Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives are investigating after a man was found deceased in a pool in East Shoreham on May 25 around 4:20 p.m.

A homeowner on Pal Court was uncovering his pool for the summer when he made the grisly discovery and called 911. Investigators said there was a strong possibility that this could be 23-year-old Matthew Zoll, who stabbed his father to death in Rocky Point in November and then fled the scene, based on his clothing. 

An autopsy will be conducted by personnel from the Office of the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the exact identity and cause of death of the victim.

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Photo from PSEG-LI

PSEG Long Island has announced details of its fifth annual Power to Feed Long Island food drive initiative and invites Long Islanders to make a donation to support their neighbors. Beginning June 13 in Massapequa, PSEG Long Island will set up collection bins at eight different Stop & Shop supermarkets on eight different Fridays through the summer. The annual collection campaign supports Island Harvest Food Bank’s mission to feed neighbors facing food insecurity.

Hundreds of thousands of Long Island families struggle with hunger and food insecurity throughout the year. During the summer months, there is a significant reduction in food donations to local food banks, pantries and other programs. Compounding the issue, children are not in school where they can receive free or reduced-cost breakfast and lunch.

Enter PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island. Between June 13 and the end of September, PSEG Long Island will set up collection boxes at eight Stop & Shop supermarket locations across Long Island (schedule is below) where community members can donate nonperishable food and essential personal care needs. The items collected at these drives will be distributed to families through local soup kitchens, nourishment centers, food pantries and other outreach programs in the neighborhood.

Over the past four years, Long Islanders have supported PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island events by donating the equivalent of 130,000 meals to help people in their communities struggling to feed their families.

“As we celebrate the fifth year of PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island, we thank the generous Long Islanders who have opened their hearts and wallets to help their neighbors in need each year,” said David Lyons, interim president and COO, PSEG Long Island. “There is hunger in every ZIP code on Long Island, and PSEG Long Island is energized to partner with Island Harvest and Stop & Shop once again to help families in our communities who need it, especially during the difficult summer months.”

“PSEG Long Island has long been a valued partner with us on the frontlines in our mission to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO, Island Harvest Food Bank. “The generous support from PSEG Long Island, Stop & Shop, and their customers is not just a lifeline, but a beacon of hope for our neighbors who may be a paycheck away from not being able to provide for themselves and their families a basic human right, like food.”

“As a leading grocery retailer on Long Island, we understand the critical role we play in fighting hunger in our communities,” said Daniel Wolk, external communications manager at Stop & Shop. “We are proud to once again welcome PSEG Long Island and Island Harvest to our stores this summer for the Power to Feed Long Island food drive. With food banks facing increasing demand, we are deeply committed to supporting Island Harvest’s mission to end hunger across Nassau and Suffolk counties.”

As a thank you to customers who make onsite donations, PSEG Long Island volunteers will be providing contributors free LED lightbulbs and reusable shopping bags. Representatives from PSEG Long Island will be available at each location to provide information on financial programs and money-saving energy efficiency options. Island Harvest Food Bank personnel will be in attendance to share information on its hunger relief programs.

How to donate:

The schedule for PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island 2025 is as follow:

Friday, June 13 9 AM – 4 PM Stop & Shop

702 Hicksville Rd.

Massapequa
Friday, June 27 9 AM – 3 PM Stop & Shop

3126 Jericho Tpk.

East Northport
Friday, July 11 9 AM – 3 PM Stop & Shop

3750 Hempstead Tpk.

Levittown
Friday, July 25 9 AM – 3 PM Stop & Shop

385 Route 25A

Miller Place
Friday, Aug. 8 9 AM – 3 PM Stop & Shop

95 Old Country Rd.

Carle Place
Friday, Aug. 22 9 AM – 3 PM Stop & Shop

3577 Long Beach Rd. Oceanside
Friday, Sept. 5 9 AM – 3 PM Stop & Shop

8101 Jericho Tpk.

Woodbury
Friday, Sept. 19 9 AM – 4 PM Stop & Shop

365 Route 109

West Babylon

 

What to donate:

Island Harvest requests specific items, including:

  • Nonperishable food: Healthy varieties of canned foods, such as low-sodium beans, vegetables, soups, pasta sauces and tomato varieties, tuna and chicken, rice, pasta, nut butters, olive and canola oil, spices and pet food (no glass containers please).
  • Household essentials: Toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, laundry detergent and dish soap.
  • Personal care items: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner, feminine care products and shaving products, antibacterial wipes and washcloths.
  • Baby care items: Diapers, wipes, formula, creams, ointments and baby wash.
  • Cash or online monetary donations: Island Harvest estimates each dollar donated provides roughly two meals.

For a full list of suggested donations, additional details about PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island, including a video of last year’s events, or to make an online donation, visit psegliny.com/feedLI.

 

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The Gamecock Cottage. Photo by Heather Lynch

After the record-breaking flood of last August, an heirloom of our community fell to ruins and has yet to reconnect with the scenic roads that we are so lucky to take every day. In light of the destruction of the beautiful and historic Mill Pond in Stony Brook and Stump Pond in Smithtown, members of the community have shared an outpouring of public support and togetherness in rebuilding our local history in the past week. At the Mill Pond, residents describe feeling stranded by administrative gridlock; but perhaps it does not have to be disheartening. 

As the weather finally warms, we are looking to fill the mill-shaped gaps in our hearts, which we can do by visiting and honoring our island’s other beautiful parks. We can celebrate our rich Native American and colonial history at equally evocative and inspiring sites during  these sun-kissed summer days. 

Containing the only remaining wooden cottage part of the beach, West Meadow Beach Path offers a 2.3-mile paved stroll through the wetlands reserve, complete with local wildlife infographics, a scenic overlook at still-standing 1876 Gamecock Cottage, and a historic building constructed for storage of oars and row boats. West Meadow Beach Path eases us from the nostalgia of the wooded, breezy salt marsh at dusk to the citrus sunsets met by the water, with terrapins, herons and bunnies searching for food or calling to each other between the reeds. At dusk, we may even spot deer up close in the brush. 

At the Rocky Point Pine Barrens, archaeological evidence point to a minimum 12,000 year-long history of Native American presence in the area. The land that provided resources for hunting, gathering, and shelter now offers miles of hiking and biking trails and horseback riding. Visitors should keep an eye out for historical signage, landmarks and vegetation unique to the undeveloped land, enabling us to appreciate and respect our island’s pre-colonial history. Verdant and sprawling, the Rocky Point Pine Barrens is stimulating and invigorating as much as it is calming. A visit to the pine barrens connects us with those who called this place home long before we arrived.

Further west, Heckscher Park is the site of a former 19th-century estate bought by New York State. Within walking distance of Huntington Village, the park features the Heckscher Museum of Art, pond, walking paths, playground, tennis courts, ball field, public art and memorials in addition to the “Chapin Rainbow Stage” performing arts amphitheater, home of the Huntington Summer Music Festival. Heckscher Park bustles with joy and laughter; an “All-American” gem, a mine for summer-night nostalgia alongside new memories we can enjoy on picnic blankets.

Tracking our unique lineage and culture throughout the island is as important as fighting for what we’ve lost. We can create new memories and revel in small joys at other local treasures as we  wait for the Mill Pond and Stump Pond to recover.

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Michaels
The Michaels Companies, Inc. has successfully completed the acquisition of the intellectual property and private label brands of JOANN, including the development of the beloved Big Twist® brands as part of the Michaels portfolio, the company announced this week.

In addition, Michaels is expanding its fabric, sewing, and yarn assortment, adding over 600 products across new and existing brands, including sewing and quilting supplies, fabric, yarn, specialty threads, sewing machines, and more. The acquisition and expanded product assortment reflect progress as Michaels continues to reimagine the customer experience to become the go-to destination for fueling creativity and celebration.

“We’re honored to have the opportunity to welcome JOANN customers into our creative community and are committed to delivering the selection, value, and inspiration they are looking for at Michaels,” said David Boone, Chief Executive Officer at Michaels, in a press release on June 5. “This acquisition allows us to better serve both new and existing customers, respond to rising demand across categories, and build on our momentum as the destination for creating and celebrating in North America.”

Fabric
Searches for ‘fabric’ on Michaels.com have increased by 77% over the past year and Michaels has responded by making a significant investment in the category, increasing the assortment in over 680 Stores, with plans for 280 more Stores this year. Michaels offers an extensive range of fabric with over 10,000 options available online. From vibrant cottons for quilting to versatile broadcloth for apparel and home decor, every creator now has access to an unparalleled selection of materials to bring their visions to life.

Sewing
Stitching its way back into the spotlight, searches for ‘sewing’ have increased by 39% on Michaels.com since last year. Michaels is responding by expanding its selection of customer-loved brands starting this month to ensure every creator has access to the tools and materials they want, including:

  • Introducing new Brother® and SINGER® sewing machines
  • Adding 50+ new needle crafting kits from DMC® and Loops & Threads®
  • Debuting 10+ Pellon® stabilizers and interfacing, specialty scissors, and thread packs, with Pellon cut-to-order batting coming in August
  • Expanding assortment with new products from Clover, FISKARS®, Coats & Clark™, and VELCRO®
  • Welcoming best-selling Oliso® Smart Iron

Yarn
Reflecting the growing resurgence in knitting, crocheting, and other fiber arts, Michaels is actively expanding its yarn assortment by 25% this year to meet soaring customer demand. From the most skilled crocheter to those picking up knitting needles for the first time, every level of crafter can now find what they are looking for at Michaels. Here’s what’s new:

  • Releasing over 60 new Loops & Threads offerings in-stores and online starting this month
  • Introducing new and expanding national brand collections from Red Heart®, Bernat®, and Lion Brand® this summer
  • Expanding best-selling Amigurumi kits with 12+ new seasonal offerings launching this holiday season
  • Welcoming beloved JOANN brands including Big Twist Value Plus, Big Twist Twinkle, Big Twist Posh and Big Twist Baby Bear, which are now being developed as part of Michaels portfolio of brands and will be available in-stores and online later this year

With many of these latest additions available now, knitters and sewists alike can shop in-store and online at Michaels.com. Additional products will continue to roll out throughout the year.

Special Welcome for JOANN Customers
JOANN was a beloved destination for creators for generations, and Michaels is honored to serve this community with a dedicated landing page featuring the latest updates and a curated assortment of products.

The Michaels Companies, Inc.
At The Michaels Companies Inc., our purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity. As the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, we operate over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada and online at Michaels.com and Michaels.ca. The Michaels Companies, Inc. also owns Artistree®, a manufacturer of custom and specialty framing merchandise. Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels is the best place for all things creative. For more information, please visit www.michaels.com.

 

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Author Tom Cassidy as a lifeguard at Rockaway Beach.

By Thomas M. Cassidy

The American Red Cross has three lifesaving principles, “Reach, Throw, Don’t Go.” Stand or lie down on solid ground and reach out with an object like a pole that the drowning person can grab so you can pull them to safety. Throw a flotation device toward a swimmer in distress to help them stay afloat and call for help. Don’t Go is a warning that people who jump in the water to rescue a drowning person put themselves at risk of drowning. Even lifeguards must be very careful when they rescue a panicked and distressed swimmer. As a former lifeguard let me explain:

The author’s son Kieran and his daughter Nikki in a swimming pool. Photo from Tom Cassidy

My first rescue occurred in the ocean at Rockaway Beach soon after my seventeenth birthday. I was working the late shift, and the next available lifeguard was two beaches away. It was early evening, and no one was on the beach. A few minutes before closing time, a woman puts her towel on the sand and walks into the water. Within a few minutes she was knocked down by a wave and the undertow was rapidly pulling her out to sea. She was desperately screaming for help!

I blew my whistle to get the attention of the nearest lifeguard and then swam to her. I told her I was a lifeguard, and she was safe. She stretched out her arm and I started to bring her close to me so I could swim her back to the beach. Suddenly in a desperate frenzy, she gripped both her arms around my neck so tight that I almost lost consciousness. We both sank to the bottom of the ocean, and she finally let go of my neck. I recovered quickly, and I was able to push both of us to the surface to get a breath of air.  A lifeguard who heard my whistle arrived within minutes and helped me bring the nearly drowned woman safely to the beach.

Although lifeguards in the United States rescue 100,000 people every year, never assume that a lifeguard can see every swimmer in trouble. If you are struggling or see a distressed swimmer in the water, yell for help, and yell loudly!  

Many people swim in pools, lakes and beaches with no lifeguard protection. For example, I was recently on vacation at a resort with five swimming pools and no lifeguards. I did a safety check and spotted the rescue pole and life preserver on the deck before my family went into the pool. Still, I was on high alert. Not for my five-year-old granddaughter who was always under the watchful eye of her parents, but the hundreds of other children and people in the pool.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that on an average day in America, there are 11 fatal and 22 non-fatal drownings. It only takes 20 to 60 seconds for a person to drown, so it’s important to always stay alert when people are bathing at beaches, lakes and pools. Above all, keep very watchful eyes on children, even when lifeguards are present. The CDC reports that for children ages 5 to 14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.

A cool dip in a backyard pool or a refreshing swim at one of the beautiful beaches that surround Long Island is a great way to relax and chill out. President John F. Kennedy said it best, “When we go back to the sea, we are going back to whence we came.”

Author Thomas M. Cassidy, a former investigator, is writer and creator of the feature film, Manhattan South, which is in development. (ktpgproductions.com)

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Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine

By Emily Mandracchia

On May 27, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R) and Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina (R) were joined by Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. (D) and other town supervisors and county officials to announce the results of a large-scale crackdown of illegal cannabis shops involving multiple jurisdictions throughout the region. 

With the goal of maintaining public safety and wellness, New York State law officially stipulates the prohibition of cannabis and other THC-related products at mobile retail or civic settings that may include vendors, such as farmer’s markets, street fairs, historical or religious societies among others. 

New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay

According to District 4 Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay (D, Port Jefferson), this crackdown also includes prerolled joints, THC vapes and edibles or tinctures containing THC. Regardless of whether the vendor possesses a license to operate a brick-and-mortar dispensary, the sale of such products is still considered illegal on the basis of the mobile venue sale. Violators are subject to what Kassay refers to as a “hefty” fine and any further disciplinary action deemed necessary.

Products that are listed to contain less than or equal to 0.3% THC are not restricted by NYS law insofar as they are properly labeled according to both federal and state cannabis and hemp product regulations. Kassay recalls that residents are often surprised when she informs them that, currently, there are “no licensed cannabis dispensaries in the Town of Brookhaven, and that any shop that has been selling intoxicating cannabis products has been doing so illegally.”

Accessibility to intoxicating products at pop-up venues enable their legality and accessible use to impart a more present danger onto the surrounding public. Kassay said herself that she had visited a street fair and witnessed a vendor unlawfully selling cannabis products firsthand. Kassay writes, “In speaking with the event’s coordinators, it came to light how many community members aren’t aware that it is currently unlawful for intoxicating cannabis products to be sold at pop-up markets in New York State.” 

Catalina stated similarly that there is a wealth of anecdotal evidence that suggests the cannabis sold to minors is often laced with unknown chemicals and additives; people have “no idea” what they are buying. Further, those who applied for licenses but have not been approved often still sell cannabis in the interim. Increase in road accidents, medical afflictions and the deterioration of the quality of business communities and public safety all served as catalysts for the agreement that the current NYS cannabis policy required further refinement.

New York State’s Office of Cannabis Management will be engaging the public with a proposal regarding future licenses for cannabis sales at pop-up events like street fairs and farmers markets, which would require both a licensed vendor and a licensed grower to be in attendance. 

For now, the crackdown offers a temporary solution to the problem — provided that the official proposal will most likely be introduced in June 2025 with a public comment period to follow.

In the meantime, it is recommended that any suspicions of illegal cannabis sale are reported to the NYS Office of Cannabis Management. Illegal sales encompass those that are without license, made to minors, illegally packaged products, incite adverse medical reactions, or otherwise spark enforcement concerns. For more information on these guidelines, visit cannabis.ny.gov/report-an-incident. 

To receive this NYS OCM proposal when it is released and to engage in the public comment opportunity or to share any other questions or concerns, please contact Kassay’s office by emailing [email protected] or calling 631-751-3094.

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