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Long Island Fall Festival heads to Huntington for 30th year

by Heidi Sutton - October 9, 2024

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LIFallFestival_26_Sara-MeganWalshw — The Long Island Fall Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. File photo by Sara Megan Walsh

A beloved tradition is returning to Huntington. The Long Island Fall Festival heads to Heckscher Park for its 30th annual incarnation this Columbus Day weekend.

The largest of its kind in the Northeast, the Long Island Fall Festival has become the premiere event for family fun. Brought to you by the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Huntington, this event attracts tens of thousands of families from all over the New York tri-state area to the 25 acres of beautiful Heckscher Park.

Truly a celebration of community spirit, this weekend event offers something for everyone. Attractions include three stages of live entertainment, a world-class carnival, hundreds of arts and craft vendors, international food courts, beer and wine pavilion, a farmer’s market, and numerous activities and entertainment designed especially for young children.

The festival begins with a carnival and live music on Friday, Oct. 11, from 5 to 10 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 12, and Sunday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., attendees can enjoy the carnival, more live music and shop from street vendors. Over 300 merchants will line up along Prime and Madison streets, adjacent to Heckscher Park, as well as around the pond and within the grounds of the park with lots of free giveaways.

On Monday, Oct. 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the festival will offer the carnival and in-park vendors for another day of fall fun.

Highlights include a Columbus Day Parade on Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a meatball eating contest on Oct. 13 on the Chapin Rainbow Stage at 4 p.m. and for the kids a magic show and illusionist Saturday, Sunday and Monday in the carnival area at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Local Youth Talent on the Chapin Rainbow Stage on Oct. 13 from noon to 3:45 p.m. and free art activities at the Heckscher Museum’s terrace on Oct. 12 and 13 from noon to 4 p.m.

Underwritten completely through corporate sponsorships, admission to the public is FREE. Dogs are welcome.

Heckscher Park is located at 2 Prime Avenue in Huntington. In addition to street parking, attendees can find free parking at the Huntington LIRR station and take a shuttle bus for $2 round trip.

For more information and to get involved in this year’s Long Island Fall Festival as a volunteer or vendor, call 631-423-6100, or visit www.lifallfestival.com.

Suffolk County Legislature recognizes small businesses at General Meeting

by Press Release - October 9, 2024

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0-20 — Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Legislature

Small businesses from across Suffolk County were recognized for their critical role as the backbone of the local economy. Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced an honoree from their district at Oct. 1’s General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building in Hauppauge.

With this ceremony, the lawmakers honored individual businesses – with fewer than 25 employees—and noted the unique contributions to the community that these businesses and their owners make every day. The businesses — ranging from restaurants, including pizzerias and delis, to insurance agencies, to local newspapers and salons – were each chosen for their standing within their community and were often cited for their civic and charitable endeavors.

“Our small businesses deserve to be recognized for their part in making Suffolk a thriving and desirable place to live,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey. “From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Peter Buccino, the proud owner of Viking Solutions in Lindenhurst since 2015. He started with the company, then named Cardwell Condenser Corporation, just a week after graduating from Copiague High School in 1979. Peter then worked his way up the ladder all the way to taking ownership in 2015.”

“Peter is an active member of the business community locally and across the county. He is the First Vice President of the Copiague Chamber of Commerce, an Executive Board Member of the Lindenhurst Chamber, and a member of the North Babylon and Montauk Chambers. Peter Buccino’s smiling face can be seen at many events in the district. He is a truly a small business success and embodies the spirit of this award,” said McCaffrey.

Across the United States, small businesses employ nearly half the American workforce, representing 43.5% of America’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to the US Chamber of Commerce. Suffolk County itself is home to many thousands of small businesses. As a partial measure of the number and variety of small businesses, the Suffolk County Department Labor, Licensing, and Consumer Affairs notes that there are over 15,800 active licenses and registrations for businesses. The wide range of businesses encompasses, for example, appliance repair, painters, electricians, plumbers, sign hangers, precious metal dealers, dry cleaners, and more.

HONOREES by LD:

LD Legislator Small Business Honoree Business Location

1. Catherine Stark — Wendy’s Deli in Mattituck

2. Ann Welker West— Robins Oysters in Southampton

3. Jim Mazzarella — TJs Hero Shop in Mastic Beach

4. Nick Caracappa — Team Rita (Tsoukaris) in Centereach

5. Steve Englebright— Bagel Express in Setauket

6. Chad Lennon — Personal Fitness in Rocky Point

7. Dominick Thorne — Greg Mehrhoff State Farm Agency in Bellport

8. Anthony Piccirillo — Joe’s Pizza and Pasta in Holbrook

9. Sam Gonzalez— Gala Foods in Brentwood

10. Trish Bergin — Bellina’s Pizza & Restaurant in East Islip

11. Steve Flotteron — Our Little Italy in West Islip

12. Leslie Kennedy — Maureen’s Kitchen in Smithtown

13. Rob Trotta — The Smithtown News in Smithtown

14. Kevin McCaffrey, PO — Viking Solutions in Lindenhurst

15. Jason Richberg — Valde Ice Cream in Wyandanch

16. Rebecca Sanin — Zaro’s Café in Huntington Station

17. Tom Donnelly — Soto Appearance Enhancement Salon in Deer Park

18. Stephanie Bontempi — Twisted Cow Distillery in East Northport

Shelter Pet of the Week: Let’s find a home for Bunny

by Heidi Sutton - October 8, 2024

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“The only limits in life are the ones you make.”

Surrendered to a local town shelter after being hit by a car and sustaining injuries, Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center stepped in to rescue Bunny, a two-year-old Pit mix. Once her healing was complete, the staff began working on her leash and basic training skills, soon realizing that Bunny was deaf in conjunction with some neurological deficits such as head tremors and incoordination. Up to the challenge, the staff have subsequently been able to introduce different methods and tools to help Bunny better adjust to her new surroundings, ensuring she feels safe, secure, and treasured while she waits for her forever home.

The best word to describe Bunny is ‘joyful’. Whether she’s spending time with her favorite people (and toys!) in one of the pens, or running free on the hill, she can often be heard enthusiastically voicing her appreciation and approval of a good time. Pure of heart, she is affectionate, loving, funny and playful. She is high-energy and high-spirited and is hoping for a family that can provide her with opportunities for exercise and adventure.

Despite her sweet natured demeanor, we’ve noticed that Bunny has significant food protection behavior with regard to other animals, possibly due to sensory loss or circumstances she may have faced in the past. For that reason, she requires a home without other dogs or cats. Also, because she plays with ‘joyful’ abandon and can’t always understand cues for correction, an adult home or one with older children would best fit her needs.

Bunny is blissfully unaware that she is any different from other dogs. Truthfully, in all the ways that matter, she is exactly the same: She has the same unequivocal loyalty, the same forgiving nature, the same optimistic attitude, and the same ability to love unconditionally. Bunny is a daily inspiration to live life without limits, always expect the best, and to embrace each moment.

Matching a dog with your family and lifestyle is a success story in the making. Could you be the one to write Bunny’s next chapter?

Little Shelter is located at 33 Warner Road in Huntington. For more information or to meet Bunny, call 631-368-8770.

Vanderbilt Museum to present lecture on Long Island’s suburban development

by Press Release - October 8, 2024

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Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road Centerport continues its lecture series with a presentation titled In Levittown’s Shadow with historian Tim Keogh on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m.

Keogh will give a lecture on his book In Levittown’s Shadow: Poverty in America’s Wealthiest Postwar Suburb which takes a nuanced look at the history of suburban development and its connection to impoverished living conditions on Long Island.

“This forgotten part of Long Island’s past is one that continues to shape the Island’s current job and housing challenges,” Keogh said.

In Levittown’s Shadow (The University of Chicago Press, 2023), he examines the familiar narrative about American suburbs – after 1945, white residents left cities for leafy, affluent subdivisions and the prosperity they seemed to embody. Keogh’s research reveals that there is more to this story. He offers an eye-opening account of diverse, poor residents living and working in those same neighborhoods. Keogh shows how public policies produced both suburban plenty and deprivation—and why ignoring suburban poverty doomed efforts to reduce inequality.

Tim Keogh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History at Queensborough Community College. He earned an A.A. degree from Nassau Community College (2005), a B.A. in History from Hofstra University (2007), and M.A. degree in History from Hunter College (2010), and an M.Phil. and Ph.D. in History from the Graduate Center, City University of New York.

In Levittown’s Shadow: Poverty in America’s Wealthiest Postwar Suburbwon the Dixon Ryan Fox Prize for best manuscript in New York history. He is the editor of War and the City: The Urban Context of Conflict and Mass Destruction and his published work can be found in The New Republic, Nonsite, Journal of Urban History, and Journal of Planning Education and Research, among others. He is a Long Island native, and currently lives there with his wife and children.

Tickets are $10 at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org or click here.

Editorial: Democracy doesn’t have to be a beast of burden

by TBR Staff - October 6, 2024

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With elections just around the corner, early autumn can feel like an overwhelming time.

Candidates on the national, state and local levels spew their promises, which we never actually know are genuine, and insult each other’s characters, instead of answering direct questions.

Many people have simply taken themselves out of the race, both literally and figuratively, refusing to vote, or partake in the democratic process at all anymore, after years of disillusionment.

But this election cycle, TBR implores you to hang in there.

Put community above party, and hear all of November’s nominees out. It doesn’t hurt to give them a fair shake.

Who knows? Maybe you will be surprised by something you hear, and be influenced to alter your view on an issue.

It is so incredibly appealing to jump on either party’s bandwagon, and be swept up with ad hominem attacks, sweeping generalizations and just plain-old lies. It would be a lie to say that it isn’t easier to be moved by primal emotion, than a calm, step back.

But listen. Listen to the candidates. Listen to your friends. Listen to your neighbors. Get your finger on the pulse of what your community needs, and make a choice based on that. Not preconceived notions, or one-sided vitriol. There is a reason that the saying, “go with your gut,” has survived for centuries.

With all this in mind, on Oct. 31st, we will be releasing our paper’s election supplement, in which we will share interviews with all candidates running for office, within our six coverage areas. We hope that through this process, we will aid you in your judgment process of each nominee, as we will be providing you a non-partisan, unedited look at each person’s responses, to a variety of questions, ranging from policy promises, to past actions.

In short, the way that our interviewing process works is that the two nominees, for each available seat, will come into our Setauket offices together, in which they will then answer each identical question, one after the other, and be able to participate in a type of mock debate, where ideas will be exchanged and dissected.

We hope that you will pick up a copy of one of our papers, or read online at www.tbrnewsmedia.com, for the week of Oct. 31, and use us as a tool that will help you regain a little bit of faith in the press, politics and humanity.

Assemblyman Keith P. Brown secures $226K in state aid for five Suffolk libraries

by Press Release - October 4, 2024

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The-East-Northport-public-library_ABBASw — The East Northport Public Library. File photo

New York State Assemblyman Keith P. Brown (R-Northport) announced that five public libraries from the Suffolk Cooperative Library System in Assembly District 12 have been allocated approximately $226,385 in state aid for library construction funds. These libraries include the Commack Public Library, which was allocated $3,750; Deer Park Public Library, which was allocated $100,000; Harborfields Public Library, which was allocated $22,635; Northport Public Library, which was allocated $78,000; and the East Northport branch of the Northport Public Library, which was allocated $22,000.

The funds were obtained from $34 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the fiscal year 2023-2024 state budget. They will help with projects such as roof replacement, the purchase and installation of alternative energy resources, new HVAC systems, windows, doors, lighting systems, electrical upgrades, electric vehicle charging stations, standby generators, and the new construction or replacement of parking lots. Broadband infrastructure projects are also eligible for this funding.

“I am proud to see these five very deserving public libraries in our community receive funding from the state for renovation projects,” Brown said. “These funds will make a tremendous difference in transforming these libraries into more energy-efficient, accessible, and welcoming public spaces for reading and learning.”

A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $1.75 billion in New York state. More than half of the 1,000-plus public library buildings in communities across New York are more than 60 years old. Another third are more than three decades old. Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient, and cannot provide internet, computers, and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring. Many do not have sufficient space to house the library’s ever-expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting spaces, or provide public access computers.

“The allocation of these funds for library construction projects will help breathe life back into our public libraries statewide. I am very excited to see the planned renovation projects completed,” Brown concluded.

In the fiscal year 2024-2025 state budget, the Legislature provided $44 million for projects that will be announced in the summer of 2025. This increase of $10 million from the previous fiscal year recognizes the continued need for support for libraries statewide to provide vital services to New Yorkers.

Northport football falls a little short at Bellport

by Steven Zaitz - October 3, 2024

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By Steven Zaitz

Points were at a premium on Saturday, as the Bellport Clippers scored the only touchdown of the game, beating Northport 7-0, in a soggy Suffolk Conference II matchup.

After a scoreless first half, Bellport running back Kingston John took a handoff 46 yards up the left sideline, leaping over Tiger defender Joey Zarcone at the 10-yard line, and prancing into the end zone, with four and half minutes remaining in the third quarter.

The teams combined for just over 300 yards of total offense, as the wet weather conditions kept the game between the 20s for most of the afternoon. Also detrimental to Northport was a third-quarter injury to starting quarterback Enrique Hernandez. He did not return, as backup Simon Blissett finished the game. Combined, the two Tiger quarterbacks completed only five passes for 39 yards.

Thirty-one of those yards came on a deep pass to running back Greyson Cabrera, as Northport made a bid for the tying score with three minutes left in the game. Cabrera’s lunging catch put the ball at midfield, and after two scrambles by Blissett and a completion to tailback Luke Loiacono, the Tigers had first and goal at the 10.

An inside handoff to Asher Levine got the ball to the one yard, which set up a 4th and 1, with time ticking away. Blissett rolled to his right, but his pass intended for Cabrera was batted down by Bellport lineman Jaheim Talford, ending Northport’s chances to tie the game.

Both teams are now 2-1 on the season. Bellport will take on winless Copiague, Oct. 5, as Northport will host 2023 Conference II champion North Babylon.

— Photos by Steven Zaitz

Monsters and Mermaids, oh my! Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum unveils latest exhibit

by Press Release - October 3, 2024

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The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor has announced the opening of a new special exhibition, Monsters and Mermaids: Legends of the Sea.

The two-year exhibit developed by museum staff will explore ocean-inspired myths, legends, and their contemporary connections. By exploring nautical mythologies, visitors will be prompted to think about the ocean’s influence on how cultures were shaped and continue to shape us, and our impacts on the ocean today. The project will be the first exhibition about folklore on Long Island in 13 years and will shed light on monstrous beings of the deep just in time for the Halloween season.

Nomi Dayan, Executive Director of The Whaling Museum & Education Center, shares, “I think a fascinating element of this project is considering how people have perceived whales through time. Today, people light up when they talk about whales. We view them as breathtaking and highly complex creatures, and whale sightings can bring strong emotions and joy. But for millennia, they were seen quite differently by diverse cultures — in fact, the scientific name for the order of whales, ‘cetacean,’ translates to ‘sea monster.’ As part of this exhibition, visitors will stop and reflect on what the word ‘monster’ means to them.”

A highlight of the exhibition is a commissioned full-size kraken/squid sculpture created out of marine debris by multimedia artist Cindy Pease Roe. Based in Greenport, Roe is the founder of UpSculpt, an organization which combines public arts, conservation, and education. The artist has been featured in numerous exhibitions worldwide, and her work draws inspiration from her lifelong connection with the sea.

“The real sea monsters today are man-made, like marine plastics. By engaging the community to help collect materials for the Kraken, together, we’re reclaiming ownership and responsibility for our oceans, reshaping the narrative from fear to collective action and stewardship,” said Pease Roe.

Her new sculpture, created out of plastic marine debris collected on Long Island beaches, will bring attention to one of the largest sea monsters ever imagined — the legendary kraken, inspired by the Giant Squid.

The squid/kraken will be displayed in an original and imaginative context by being suspended above the museum’s historic whaleboat, thrusting contemporary plastic materials into a 19th century story. As the gallery’s defining focal point, Roe’s piece will be thematically central to Monsters & Mermaids, and flip the narrative by questioning who is really afraid of whom today? The sculpture will convey a powerful message about the fragility of legendary creatures and confront the massive human refuse which is changing the ocean’s stories today.

The community is encouraged to participate in this exhibit by donating red and orange plastics gathered from Long Island beaches. Donations can be made at the museum or by visiting UpSculpt.com for additional donation options.

In addition to the squid sculpture, visitors will see maps, prints, scrimshaw, ephemera, and specimens exploring the artistic and cultural folklore of sea serpents, whales, sirens, and other global legends. Artifacts will be sourced from the museum’s collection as well as loans from other institutions.

One of the items on display from the museum’s collection will be a 1986 diorama by artist Vincent P. Ciro titled “Ye Dam’n Whale.” It depicts a scene from Moby Dick by Herman Melville. “When we think about the Monster Whale, Herman Melville’s Moby Dick is perhaps the most ubiquitous example in American literature.” said Baylee Browning, Collections and Exhibits Associate, The Whaling Museum & Education Center, “But who is the monster, really? Is it Moby Dick, the White Whale, or Captain Ahab, the relentless pursuer? Monsters and Mermaids, Legends of the Sea will explore these questions about monstrosity and wonder. What is a monster, and what does that say about our understanding of the natural world, and of ourselves? We can’t wait to explore these questions with you this October and “sea” if you can decide.”

In addition, visitors will reflect on the endurance of mermaid myths throughout history, from cave paintings to the 2023 mermaid-core fashion trend and ubiquitous Starbucks logo. A closer look into the history of mermaid portrayals will also offer insights into the history of racist perspectives.

Long Islanders can look forward to the museum’s upcoming series of workshops, events, talks, and programming for both adults and children exploring themes in the exhibition.

To celebrate, the museum will host two opening events: “Monsters & Mermaids: Family Bash” on Sunday, October 6th, and an exclusive evening event, “Monsters and Mermaids: After Dark,” on Thursday, October 10th.

The Family Bash, taking place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on October 6, will transform the museum’s galleries into magical underwater realms. Families can enjoy a day filled with meeting a mermaid in a fantastical setting, exploring “Davy Jones’ Locker” with a touch tank featuring live sea creatures, and face painting that brings the event’s enchantment to life.

Museum educators will offer interactive talks on the origins of the kraken and other deep-sea myths. Craft stations throughout the galleries will feature activities like making your own “monster slime” and other monster and mermaid-themed crafts. Guests are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to add to the festive atmosphere.

“We’re delighted to bring the magical world of oceanic legends to life,” said Brenna McCormick-Thompson, Curator of Education. “The Family Bash offers a wonderful opportunity for visitors to explore the new exhibit with special activities designed for kids and families.”

Admission to the “Monsters & Mermaids: Family Bash” includes all activities. Advance tickets are $20 for children and $8 for adults, with member rates of $15 for children and $5 for adults. Tickets at the door are $25 for children and $8 for adults, with member rates of $20 for children and $5 for adults. The museum extends its gratitude to Gellerman Orthodontics for sponsoring the Mermaid Performer.

“Monsters and Mermaids: After Dark,” set for October 10th from 7 to 9 p.m. is an exclusive adult-only event. This evening will feature activities tailored for a mature audience, alongside the same enchanting backdrop as the “Family Bash”. Attendees can savor sea-inspired cocktails or mocktails and participate in a craft workshop to create fancy creature specimen jars, perfect for Halloween décor.

For those seeking mystical insights, tarot card readings will be featured. A costume contest will add to the fun, with prizes for the most imaginative costumes.

“This special evening event provides a unique way to dive deeper into the exhibit,” added Thompson. “We look forward to creating a memorable and immersive experience where guests can fully explore the legendary history of ocean myths.”

Advance tickets for “Monsters and Mermaids: After Dark” are $40, with member tickets at $30. At the door, tickets are $45, with member tickets available for $35. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit cshwhalingmuseum.org/monsters.

The “Monsters & Mermaids: Legends of the Sea” exhibition and associated programs are supported in part with funds from the New York State National Maritime Heritage Education Subgrant Program. The exhibition is also supported in part by the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), and Humanities New York, and Public Funding Provided by Suffolk County.

For the next two years, viewing the special exhibit will be included with regular admission to the museum. Admission to the museum is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and children aged 4-17, and free for children aged 0-3 as well as Active Duty with ID. Gallery hours at the start of the exhibit will reflect fall and winter hours of Thursdays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Letters to the Editor: October 3, 2024

by TBR Staff - October 3, 2024

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letters_page-scaled-1-700x467-1-1 — File photo by Raymond Janis

Brookhaven Town Board rejects suburbia

Last week the Brookhaven Town Board rang the death knell for suburbia by downzoning the sleepy Jefferson Plaza shopping center in Port Jefferson Station to allow the development of a mega city of unaffordable apartments and large multistory buildings.

The proponents, mostly the building industry lobby and the developer, who will reap millions of dollars in increased rent, took advantage of an industry-promoted zoning classification called Commercial Redevelopment District which allows city-like density in underperforming shopping centers throughout Brookhaven.

The new code was a byproduct of the dark days of COVID-19 when many thought that local shopping centers wouldn’t survive the loss of customers who were staying at home because of the pandemic.

Unsurprisingly, most shopping centers have now rebounded, but the Town of Brookhaven has not rescinded the urban density code that was promoted by developers and builders over the objections from several community civic organizations.

A Queens-like development this size and scale will alter the suburban character of upper Port Jefferson Station and lead to the further urbanization of the communities throughout the town.

Because of the Staller Center rezone, lawyers representing other shopping center owners have already made inquiries to the Brookhaven Town Board about rezoning their clients shopping centers to CRD as well.

It’s time for the Town Board to take a hard look at the CRD zoning code, realize how it will radically change the character of most communities throughout the town and build into it protections that would limit the size and scale of future redevelopment of shopping centers — and make it less destructive to the suburban character of communities we cherish.

Charles Tramontana, President, George Hoffman, Trustee

Three Village Civic Association

A timeline: Careful money management yields results

In 2011, Suffolk County announced a $500 million deficit. And in that same year, 2011, Sarah Anker (D-Mount Sinai) was elected to the Suffolk County Legislature and she asked to be assigned to work with the fiscal committee. To our benefit, Sarah insisted that with careful planning and foresight, Suffolk County could trim the budget and tighten spending while offering the same services and assistance to residents. For 12 years, Sarah pushed this version of fiscal responsibility, then she was term-limited out of the Legislature.

The outcome of Sarah’s effort was everything we could have hoped for. In 2023, the Suffolk County Legislature announced that the $500 million deficit was eliminated and that the county’s bond rating had moved strongly upward. Before she left the Legislature, Sarah Anker brought stability to Suffolk County finances.

I am grateful that Sarah Anker puts People Over Politics. Sarah Anker has my vote for NYS Senate.

Judy Black

Shoreham

Rebecca Kassay: A force for good, leading with heart and purpose

Rebecca Kassay (D-Port Jefferson) is someone I’ve had the privilege of knowing and watching blossom into a true leader over the years. From the moment I met her, I could tell she had a deep passion for both her community and the environment. It has been remarkable to see how she’s transformed that passion into tangible, meaningful action. Watching her grow, both as a small business owner and as a community leader, has been an incredibly personal inspiration to me.

One of the things that has always stood out to me about Rebecca is her dedication to environmental governance. After graduating from SUNY New Paltz with a degree in Environmental Studies, she returned to Long Island and dove right into environmental work. I remember how she launched a youth environmental volunteer program at Avalon Park and Preserve. I watched her work tirelessly with local teens, teaching them to care for and protect our natural environment. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she wasn’t just teaching them about the environment — she was inspiring a sense of responsibility and love for the land. Seeing her in action made me realize that this wasn’t just a job for her — it was a calling.

Rebecca’s entrepreneurial journey is just as impressive. In 2013, she and her husband Andrew purchased a fixer-upper in Port Jefferson and transformed it into The Fox and Owl Inn, a bed-and-breakfast that quickly became a cornerstone of the community. I saw firsthand how much effort and care they put into the business. But more than that, I saw how deeply Rebecca became involved in the local business community. Through her work with both the Port Jefferson Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce, she’s been a driving force in helping local businesses thrive. I’ve had many conversations with her about how to build a sustainable local economy, and her commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility is something I deeply admire.

When the pandemic hit, Rebecca’s leadership took on new meaning. She quickly organized the Long Island Open Source Medical Supplies initiative, rallying volunteers to produce PPE for frontline workers. It was a shining example of her ability to mobilize people for the greater good. In a time of crisis, Rebecca brought hope and unity to the community.

Watching Rebecca grow has been an inspiring journey for me. She leads with her heart and never loses sight of her values, making her a true force for good.

Indu Kaur

Port Jefferson Station

Transparency needed: Voters deserve answers from Assemblyman Flood

As a resident of Setauket I was distressed to hear that my Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson) was disbarred last week.

As a lawyer I am concerned that Assemblyman Flood did not even bother to respond to the complaint against him even though he was charged that he “engaged in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation with regard to both clients” and the courts. To merit disbarment, as opposed to censure or suspension, the alleged conduct must have been very serious.

As a voter I believe I am entitled to know what he was accused of.

Assemblyman Flood should make a full disclosure of what occurred. The voters deserve to know.

Chris Murray

Setauket

D. None of the Above: Indifferent to labels, my Aunt Maxine was a role model for compassion

by Daniel Dunaief - October 2, 2024

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By Daniel Dunaief

My Aunt Maxine had Down syndrome, which means she was mentally disabled.

In so many ways, Maxine and her life defied expectations and labels.

When Maxine was born, doctors told my grandparents that she wouldn’t likely live long, so they should consider putting her in an institution.

My grandparents couldn’t imagine being away from their daughter. They took Maxine home to the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where they raised and educated her.

As she grew up, Maxine was on the shorter side, at under five feet tall, and carried the youthful, round face of Down syndrome throughout her life.

She also had facial hair that my grandmother, mother and caregivers regularly trimmed.

My aunt lacked any self-consciousness about who she was, what she was, and how she related to the world. She figured everyone was as ready to love her and interact with her as she was with them.

More often than not, she smiled, offering an energetic and enthusiastic nod whenever anyone made eye contact. Plenty of people avoided looking at her in part because she was different and, in part, because she lived in New York and the rules of sidewalk engagement limited eye contact.

When people didn’t notice or engage with her, she kept walking, singing, talking to herself, chatting with her parents or the rest of us, or whistling, which she could do by inhaling and exhaling.

She lived at a higher decibel level. Her whisper was even louder than her normal speaking voice.

“What?” she’d whisper so loudly that it could be heard in the back row of a movie theater. “You want me to be quiet? Is that what you’re telling me?”

“Yes, shhhh.”

“Don’t shush me!” she’d say, her husky whisper, like her husky voice, becoming louder and indignant.

“Sorry, Macky,” I’d say. “People are trying to watch the movie. Can you watch it, too?”

“Oh, yes, yes, yes,” she’d say, nodding vigorously. “I’ll be quiet. I will. I’ll be quiet. If that’s what you want, I can be quiet. Sure, suuuuure!”

She was spectacularly funny and knew introductions were an opportunity for comedy.

“Who is this young lady?” she’d ask anyone who walked in the door in our house. The person could be anywhere from six to 96 and she’d ask the same thing.

“How old are you?” she’d ask.

No matter the answer, she’d suggest the person was a “lovely” young lady.

“What’s your name?” she’d ask.

When the person said her name, she’d say “what” several times and then ask the person to spell it. When she slowed our guest down repeatedly and asked her to say it again, the guest would shout.

“Hey, what are you yelling for? I can hear you. Not so loud. You’re hurting my ears.”

She’d squint and a smile would fill her face as she’d scan the room, knowing the old routine had hit the mark.

More than anything else, though, Maxine was compassionate, emotionally connected, loving and supportive.

She would sing the Star Spangled Banner when she listened to Robert Merrill on the radio before a Yankees game.

“It’s so beautiful,” she’d say, as she blew her nose and wiped her eyes.

I suspect many other Americans have an aunt, sibling, distant relative, friend or neighbor for whom labels mean even less than the totality of their lives, the winsome nature of their personality, and the triumphs that define their days.

Hearing anyone use the term “disabled” as a take down misses the point, particularly for those who seek to be the country’s leader.

Maxine required but also taught a level of patience. In exchange, our family and friends appreciated her joy of life and basked in her unconditioned positive regard. She wouldn’t have resented or hated others, wouldn’t have insulted individuals or a group and would have forgiven anyone who made a mistake.

Perhaps some day, those who use words like “mental disability” as a way to dismiss others or to cast others aside will think of the Maxines of the world. We can learn so much from others whose lives are different from ours and who aren’t trying to use words to project an image, to cut others down, or to suggest that someone is limited.

I can picture Maxine sitting in a chair next to me, tilting her head and looking at me from the side.

“You’re such a silly goose,” she’d laugh.

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