Home Times of Smithtown

Hauppauge football falls to Islip in first round of playoffs

by Steven Zaitz - November 15, 2024

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By Steven Zaitz

The Suffolk County high school football playoffs kicked off this weekend, and in most cases, the higher-seeded teams were met with little resistance. But when the sixth-seeded Hauppauge Eagles flew south down Route 111 to No. 3 Islip on Friday night, they did everything they could to sink the Buccaneers’ planned pleasure cruise in the Conference III quarterfinal.

After a brilliant 23-yard touchdown scramble down the left sideline by Eagle quarterback Nick Lachapelle, Hauppauge had a 22-14 lead and was less than 10 minutes away from a not-so-mild upset. Islip came into the game with a 6-2 record and was fresh off a rousing 42-6 win over Amityville in the final week of the regular season, while the Eagles had suffered a soul-crushing shutout at the hands of top-seed Sayville, 49-0.

But the slate was blank once the playoffs started, and Hauppauge wasn’t thinking about what happened at Sayville. They needed to continue to bottle up Islip’s All-County quarterback Brady Nash for the next nine minutes and 42 seconds to survive and advance.

After Lachapelle’s TD run, Buccaneer scatback Dylan Smith got Islip to midfield immediately as he took an end-around on the first play from scrimmage. A completion to wide receiver Jack Rao moved the ball to the Eagle 29, and two plays later, Nash found a wide-open Rao for a 16-yard touchdown. Islip converted the two-point conversion, and the game was tied at 22.

Lachapelle, who was beaten and battered throughout the game by a relentless Bucs pass rush, also plays as a defensive back and long-snapper on punts. When he made a tackle on a critical third down with less than four minutes left and the game still tied, he limped noticeably but stayed on the field. The lanky lefty was sacked on third down by Josiah Patterson for the third time in the game and needed assistance getting to his sideline as the Eagle punting unit came onto the field with 2:15 remaining.

As an injured player must sit out for one play, Lachapelle handed over the snapping duties to backup Matt Cira.

“I was cramping really badly and couldn’t even stand, so we had to put in our backup snapper,” said the junior Lachapelle, who rushed for 67 yards on 12 carries and threw for 89.

These cramps put a real crimp in Hauppauge’s chance to win the game.

As the gentle, southerly breeze that blew in from the Great South Bay at the start of the game turned colder and more biting, Eagle punter Jackson Ruple took the field. Lachapelle could only watch helplessly from the sidelines as Cira’s snap fluttered way over the head of Ruple, who chased the ball near his own 20-yard line and was immediately decked by Islip’s do-it-all Christian Hall.

A minute later, Nash, who totaled exactly 300 yards of offense, took a third-and-3 shotgun snap and darted up the middle for a 12-yard, go-ahead touchdown. It was 29-22 with 58 seconds left, and a gimpy Lachapelle and Hauppauge were out of bullets.

“That loss really hurt, and I wanted a playoff win more than anything,” Lachapelle said. “It’s unfortunate I had to sit out that one play.”

Eagle running back Gershon Diaz had the other touchdowns on runs of 6 and 18 yards.

For the senior Nash, he and his teammates had a playoff win after an abysmal 2-6 season in 2023. He finished with two touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns, the last of which won the game.

“The winning touchdown run was one of the moments that everyone dreams of having, and I couldn’t have done it without my teammates,” Nash said. “It was huge for the town, the team, and it was an amazing moment.”

Nash is ticketed for more amazing moments when postseason award banquets start up in a few weeks. But before he hits the carving stations and the salad bars, Nash and his Buco teammates have a date with fellow All-County quarterback Joe Filardi and Half Hollow Hills West next Saturday at West in the Suffolk County Conference III semifinal game. The Colts beat up on the Bucs 56-20 in Week 7 of the regular season.

“We learned a lot from that week against Hills West,” Nash said. “I think we’re all pulling in the right direction.”

Town of Brookhaven announces increased enforcement on illegal housing

by Press Release - November 14, 2024

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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.

Letters to the Editor: Nov. 14, 2024

by TBR Staff - November 14, 2024

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letters_page-scaled-1-700x467-1-1-2-3-2-1 — Photo by Raymond Janis

Three Village BOE’s costly sleep experiment

At the meeting held Oct. 23, the Three Village Board of Education made another one of its brilliant decisions. Despite [Superintendent Kevin] Scanlon advising both the board and the public that a change in school start times would put a considerable strain on the budget, the board unanimously passed this ridiculous initiative. This change, which has been debated ad nauseum for nearly 2 years, is an enormous waste of money and time. Advocates for this lunacy truly believe that a 30-minute change will have some definitive effect on the sleep patterns of students and their academic success. What they are choosing to ignore is the simple fact that the millions of dollars that this alteration requires will now be taken away from other areas of the budget.

What’s going to happen when programs are discontinued and class sizes rise because we had to pay for the 30 extra minutes kids could stay up on their phones? I won’t keep you in suspense, I’ll just share the result. There will be an exponential uproar and a reconsideration. Much like the dazzling decision to abolish Do No Harm at this time last year, the board will be forced to rethink the start time aberration as well. And, of course, this is all contingent on the budget vote, which may have several community members rethinking their decision come May. There’s a reason there was so much foot dragging before this vote happened. Perhaps caving to fantasy beliefs about the sleep fairy granting everyone better grades and stronger attendance was not the best idea.

Stefanie Werner

East Setauket

Campaign thank you letter

Dear Friends,

I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of my volunteers and supporters for your unwavering dedication throughout my NYS Senate campaign.

Whether you knocked on doors, made calls, donated resources or simply stood by myside, your commitment and hard work have made all the difference, and I am grateful and inspired.

After experiencing seven challenging campaigns as a Suffolk County legislator, I can tellyou first hand that it’s not easy running for political office. I first ran for school board trustee in 2005, and in 2011, I ran for the county legislature and won the 6th Legislative District seat as a Democrat in one of the most Republican county districts, winning seven elections until I was term limited. I overcame political divisiveness by putting people over politics and finding common ground so we could get work done by making communities safer, cleaner and more affordable.

Knowing the local issues and having both foresight and experience, I am proud to have facilitated many successful programs including partnering with law enforcement to create the School Active Violence Emergency (SAVE ) Hotline to provide a direct link for school emergency; chairing Suffolk County’s Addiction Prevention and Support Advisory Panel to address the opioid epidemic, mental health and suicide prevention; creating veterans and seniors resource guides; creating a county business hub and website to expedite the health permit process helping businesses build and expand; working to address the dangers of social media and liquid nicotine to protect our kids; educating our senior citizens on scams; supporting the construction of the North Shore Rail Trail for a safer alternative to recreate; spearheading the cleanup of ocean pollution in Long Island Sound and local harbors; supporting the acquisition of open space to protect our drinking water; and preserving our farmland legacy.

Affordability will continue to be the top issue as we enter into a very turbulent political climate. While this election is over, the work we’ve started doesn’t stop here. The connections we’ve made, the conversations we’ve had, and the ideas we’ve sparked will continue to shape the future. It has been my honor to have worked alongside some of the most dedicated and inspiring people in this county as we continue to make a difference. I wish my opponent the best and look forward to a continued partnership between government and community as we address our future goals.

Sincerely,

Sarah Anker

Former Suffolk County legislator and 2024 candidate for NYS Senate

Holiday tips from the postmaster of Selden

As the postmaster for Selden, I want to assure you that the U.S. Postal Service is primed and ready to deliver exceptional service during the 2024 holiday rush. Thanks to the substantial progress USPS has made under the Delivering for America plan — a $40 billion investment aimed at revitalizing the national postal network — our operational, transportation and delivery processes have never been more finely tuned.

My dedicated team and I are fully prepared to handle the peak holiday season surge once again.

As you and your family prepare for the holidays, it’s always a good idea to Ship It Early! We encourage everyone to send their holiday mail and packages well in advance to ensure they reach their destinations on time, but we understand that sometimes cards or packages are sent at the last minute.

This year, our recommended send-by dates for expected holiday delivery within the continental U.S. before Dec. 25 are:

•Dec. 18: USPS Ground Advantage service; First Class Mail service

•Dec. 19: Priority Mail service

•Dec. 21: Priority Mail Express service

For a complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates, please visit usps.com/holidayshippingdates. And remember: the earlier you send, the better — Ship it Early!

We are honored and grateful for your trust in the U.S. Postal Service. Your postal team at the Selden Post Office is proud to be the most affordable, reliable way to send cheer this holiday season, and we’re ready to deliver exceptional service during the holidays and beyond.

Warmest regards,

Valarie Faria

Postmaster Selden Post Office

D. None of the Above: A delightful chat about a 105-year old grandfather and a Mets World Series game

by Daniel Dunaief - November 14, 2024

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By Daniel Dunaief

My wife and I have visited with another couple, whom I’ll call Ben and Jill, several times through the years. We’ve attended sporting events and chatted at meals in different cities.

They are both pleasant and agreeable and seem pleased to reconnect with us each time.

Recently, we had an unhurried dinner where the stories went from the routine to the sublime.

Jill is worried about her second son, who is working incredibly long hours and doesn’t seem to have much, or any, work-life balance.

Her husband Ben, who is in a similar line of work to their son, worked incredibly long hours in the first years of their marriage, too.

Indeed, back in his day, Ben would work all day, come home to take a shower while a car service waited outside and then would return to work, without so much as a meal or a rest.

“I wasn’t as worried about Ben,” she said, as she spent her waking hours taking care of three children who required her considerable attention.

Like many other parents of children in the 30-ish range, Jill is eagerly waiting for her oldest son, who has been in a relationship for years, has purchased a house with his girlfriend and shares custody of a dog, to take those next steps that would not only net her a daughter-in-law but would also bring her grandchildren.

“Honestly,” she shrugged, “I thought I’d be a grandparent by now.”

Speaking of grandparents and grandchildren, Jill shared that her grandfather died last year at the age of 105.

Doing quick math, I realized that he was born the year before the Spanish Influenza of 1919 and died after the end of Covid, which means that he was one of probably a select few who lived through two pandemics in different centuries.

He had served in World War II in Washington state as a code breaker and was a widower for the last few decades of his life.

When her grandfather was 90, he needed heart surgery. Doctors wouldn’t normally perform such a procedure on a 90-year old, but they said he was much more like a typical, healthy 80 year-old.

They put a device in his heart that was supposed to last 10 years. When her grandfather reached 101, the device faltered and he had sepsis. This, the family thought, could be the end of his long life. He rebounded, however, and lived another four years, enduring vision limited in part by reduced visits to the ophthalmologist during Covid.

The conversation turned to baseball, as Ben and Jill are avid Mets fans.

I told them my memories from Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, when I was living in the Boston area and was surrounded by giddy Red Sox fans on the verge of their first championship since 1918.

Ben’s eyes lit up and he told us that he and Jill attended Game 7 of that series.

No, they hadn’t purchased tickets. They knew two people who had worked at Shea Stadium as vendors, but hadn’t worked in a while. They borrowed their vendor badges, which didn’t have their names or pictures on them, arrived at Shea two hours before the game started, and casually walked through the gate.

When they sat down in left field seats, a security guard asked them what they were doing there and they said they worked at the ice cream vendor in left field. The security guard informed them that there were no ice cream vendors in that area. They considered leaving, but instead hid in a stair well until the crowds came in.

They found an usher who allowed them to sit on the concrete steps — empty seats were unlikely in a winner-take-all game — and watched the Mets come back to clinch the title.

Whenever anyone asks Ben to share something people don’t know about him, he relates the story of their bold and successful effort to watch live the last Mets team to win a World Series.

Between You and Me: A special invitation

by Leah Dunaief - November 14, 2024

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By Leah S. Dunaief

This is an invitation for you, readers of our newspapers, viewers of our website, followers of us on social media and listeners to our podcast. We encourage you to send us nominations for our special edition, People of the Year.

Many of you know that we publish People of the Year, filled with the exploits of local “heroes,” who go the extra mile to make our communities the wonderful places they are, between Christmas and New Year.

These are people who live or work or in some way directly affect our lives here. They don’t just do their jobs well. They go far beyond what is expected of them, and in so doing, improve our lives.

We solicit these names from you because you know who they are, whether from the cohort of government workers to the unstinting volunteer on your block. By putting the spotlight on them and their unselfish efforts, we make their work a little easier.

Plus, no matter who they are, it feels good to be appreciated.

So think about who helps our villages and towns the most. They can be in any field: healthcare, the economy, elected officials, business people, the arts, science, civics, historical societies, service organizations, education, sports and more.

And don’t tell them you told us. We like to surprise them when we publish their stories the last week in December.

Thank you & Happy Holidays!

Town of Smithtown exhibits historic property records and tax documents showcasing San Remo American Dream story

by Press Release - November 13, 2024

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0-9 — From left, Maryann Jacoutot (Senior Center Staff) Town Clerk Thomas McCarthy, Supervisor Edward Wehrheim, Thomas Gugliotta, Tax Receiver Deanna Varricchio, and Senior Citizens Dept. Director Doreen Perrino. Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown has announced that historic property records and tax documents donated by Thomas Gugliotta are now on display at Town Hall. Gugliotta, a proud first-generation resident of Smithtown donated the records in hopes of sharing his parents great American Dream story. The display, located at Town Hall outside the Tax Receiver’s office, serves as a tribute to the values of hard work, resilience, and community spirit that define so many Smithtown families.

Thomas Gugliotta’s parents, Biase and Philomena, immigrated from Italy in 1956, arriving in the San Remo neighborhood with their infant daughter. Thomas was born in San Remo and grew up in the same home he resides in today, where he continues to cherish his parents’ legacy.

“I got very nostalgic talking with Thomas. We shared memories about our families, how they migrated here to Smithtown and how generations before us made a great life, which are now etched in our history. The Gugliotta family represents what Smithtown is all about: resilience, hard work, and pride in one’s roots. These historical documents not only honor their personal history but also serve as an inspiration to our community about the power of perseverance in the pursuit of the American Dream.” – Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim, Town of Smithtown

Thomas’s father, an Italian Allied Forces WWII veteran, experienced unimaginable hardship during the war. Shortly after Italy joined the Allied forces in 1943, Biase Gugliotta was captured and held in a nazi labor camp until it was liberated by American forces in 1945. In 1956, his family settled in San Remo, where Biase worked as a custodian at Kings Park High School until his retirement in 1986. Thomas shared his fathers proud journey with Town Officials, of achieving U.S. citizenship, thanks to the assistance of Smithtown’s first Police Chief, Cy Donnelly in 1969.

“My father would walk to Town Hall to pay his taxes, proud of everything he had accomplished… It’s an honor to have these records displayed here in a way that might inspire others to reflect on the American story—one rooted in family, history, and proud heritage.” – Thomas Gugliotta, San Remo First Generation Resident

Thomas Gugliotta recalled that his father would actually walk to Town Hall to pay his property taxes, all the way from San Remo, making it a point to share how deeply proud his father was to do so.

Did You Know? Originally named after a small Italian Riviera village, San Remo has a unique historical significance and has served as a home to many families who have shared similar dreams of building a new life.

This exhibit was made possible thanks to the collaboration with the Smithtown Senior Center team and Town Administration. The Town is deeply grateful to Thomas Gugliotta for sharing his family’s history and hopes this exhibit will spark meaningful discussions about family legacies, community history, and the value of the American Dream.

Thomas’s heartfelt story about his family is also available to watch on Smithtown GTV’s YouTube channel. It captures the personal stories behind the historical documents, offering a unique perspective on the history of San Remo and the people who have built their lives here. The Town Hall display is a testament to the enduring strength and pride of immigrant families who continue to enrich the fabric of Smithtown.

To watch Thomas Gugliotta’s interview and the San Remo Historic Spotlight on Smithtown GTV, visit: Watch on YouTube.

Town of Smithtown hosts first annual Epilepsy Awareness Month ceremony

by Press Release - November 13, 2024

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The Town of Smithtown hosted its first annual Epilepsy Awareness Ceremony, declaring November as Epilepsy Awareness Month throughout the township. The ceremony was held on November 7 at Town Hall, honoring the bravery of community members living with epilepsy and their journey to end the stigma surrounding it.

Katie Necroto, a 14-year-old Nesconset Resident shared her very personal and inspiring story, in front of a captive audience of family, friends, and local community members. Ms. Necroto was presented with a Proclamation from the Town of Smithtown by Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim, recognizing her journey and declaring November Epilepsy Awareness Month.

“Smithtown has been at the forefront of celebrating community members and observing Health Awareness Months. Each year, we expand our partnerships, deepen our understanding, and are inspired by incredible individuals in our community. This November, we are thrilled to add Epilepsy Awareness Month to our roster. All month long, we aim to inform families about available resources, educate the public on epilepsy, and break down the stigma here in Smithtown. We will also be distributing awareness bracelets to anyone who pledges to support this mission right here at Town Hall,” said Supervisor Wehrheim in a press release.

Katie Necroto spoke to the community at large, sharing her first memory and journey to the present day with hopes of educating and inspiring others to not be ashamed or afraid of an epilepsy diagnosis. NY State Senator Mario Mattera, alongside Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick presented Katie with a framed, State Certificate of Recognition for her courage in raising awareness. Smithtown Central School Districts Assistant Superintendent for Instruction & Administration Cabinet, Dr. Kevin Simmons shared remarks on behalf of Superintendent Dr. Mark Secaur, who shares a personal bond, in connection to those impacted by epilepsy.

“I realized I was on the path I was meant to be on, inspired by angels who have loved, supported, and guided me. Thank you to my family, friends, school nurses, doctors, and everyone who helped me through the hardest times. I’m especially grateful to Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town for listening to my story and encouraging me to share it. If I had one wish today, it would be that my story helps someone else find hope and strength. That the telling of this story might encourage any one of you experiencing difficult times to know there are angels all around you, ready to help you on your journey and shine their light through the darkness,” said Katie, who is an Epilepsy Awareness Advocate and 9th-grade student at Smithtown High School East.

The ceremony concluded with a purple ribbon cutting in front of the sign at Town Hall, which has been landscaped with Fall purple annuals and Epilepsy Awareness garden flags. All Month long the Town of Smithtown will seek to inform families about available resources, work to educate the public on the various types of Epilepsy and pledge to end the stigma. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital has delivered informational pamphlets, available at the entrance of Town Hall for anyone wishing to learn more about treatments and resources locally available. Additionally, the Town has made silicone Awareness Bracelets available at the main entrance of Town Hall for anyone who would like to take the pledge to be informed, compassionate and help spread a positive message with the community.

“Smithtown is proud to be at the forefront of honoring Health Awareness Months, expanding community partnerships, and celebrating remarkable individuals. All November long, Smithtown will educate the public on Epilepsy, promote available resources, and work collectively to end the stigma around the condition,” read the release.

Porch pirate strikes in Ronkonkoma

by Press Release - November 12, 2024

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Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the man who allegedly stole a package from the porch of a Ronkonkoma home.

A man allegedly stole a package containing two iPhones, valued at approximately $1,800, from the porch of a home on Springdale Drive, on October 9 at approximately 6 p.m. The man fled the scene in a newer model Silver Honda Accord.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

Suffolk County deploys 10 fire departments to Orange County to assist with ongoing wildfires

by Press Release - November 12, 2024

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Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) announced on Nov. 12 that Suffolk County has deployed members from 10 fire departments to Orange County to assist with the ongoing Jennings Creek Wildfire.

The following departments responded: Central Islip, Eastport, Amagansett, Dix Hills, Huntington, West Islip, Southampton, East Hampton, East Marion, and Orient.

“Our first responders are always prepared to answer the call to help wherever they are needed. I am proud of their commitment, and we thank them for their sacrifice,” said Romaine. “Our region has experienced one of the driest months on record, leading to extremely dry conditions and a real possibility of rapid fire spread if ignition occurs so we recognize the urgency of this matter.”

Suffolk County is currently under a Red Flag Warning. According to the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are expected or are occurring. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and dry fuels would create a significant elevated fire growth potential.

“Our residents can be assured that Suffolk County is home to 109 fire departments and still has sufficient resources to respond to emergencies locally,” said Suffolk County FRES Commissioner Rudy Sunderman.

Suffolk County FRES urges residents to be cautious and provides the following safety tips to prevent further incidents: Avoid recreational fires, always have a fire extinguisher nearby, fully extinguish any flames, and report uncontrolled fires immediately.

The Suffolk County Parks Department has issued a ban on all campfires and open flames in all County parks. Please be cautious when extinguishing cigarettes and remain aware of any signs of fire.

Sons of Norway turns 100, invites community to celebrate

by Dylan Friedman - November 12, 2024

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norwegian-flag-2585931_1280 — Pixabay photo

By Dylan Friedman

Sons of Norway, Loyal Lodge 252, is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone: its 100th anniversary in 2024. Initially chartered in June of 1924, the lodge also boasts the title of Smithtown’s oldest fraternal organization.

“It’s pretty cool that we’re still here, 100 years later,” Eric Johansson, president of the loyal lodge, said. “We have got a lot of cool stories and history to share.”

The lodge’s website recounts that the organization’s early meetings were held in the cellar of former lodge president Carl Eriksen’s residence. As membership grew, the lodge’s members embarked on a construction project during the 1930s, erecting a meeting place to call their own, Norway Hall, located at 201 Seventh St., St. James.

The completed hall, a substantial structure constructed of hollow tile, stucco and wood, quickly became a vital community hub.

In addition to serving as a designated meeting space for Sons of Norway, Loyal Lodge 252, the hall was also made available to various local organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Democratic and Republican clubs, the Masonic Lodge, and the Boy and Girl Scouts. Moreover, as the organization’s website detailed, the hall previously functioned as a polling place for local elections.

While the hall has served as a physical hub for the community for decades, the organization’s commitment to connection extends beyond its walls. Johansson highlights the organization’s upcoming Annual Scandinavian Bazaar on Nov. 16 as an opportunity to showcase its philanthropic commitment to the community.

The event will offer attendees a chance to immerse themselves in Scandinavian culture through live accordion music, a variety of Scandinavian holiday and household items, home-baked goods, traditional food (including lapskaus, waffles and open sandwiches) and a raffle.

As Sons of Norway, Loyal Lodge 252, celebrates its 100-year milestone, the organization continues to be a vibrant part of the community. With a rich history and a bright future, the lodge invites everyone to join in the celebration and experience the warmth of Scandinavian culture.

The Nov. 16 event will occur at the St. James Lutheran Church, located at 230 2nd Ave., St. James, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

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