Home Times of Smithtown

Temporary access road constructed in Head of the Harbor following record rainfall storm event

by Press Release - October 3, 2024

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In a significant step towards recovery from the record rainfall and flooding that devastated the region on August 18^t and the 19, an intergovernmental partnership between the Village of Head of the Harbor and the Town of Smithtown has resulted in the successful construction of a temporary access road off Emmet Drive. The first major recovery project completed in the aftermath of the storm, will allow previously stranded residents to return to a semblance of normalcy at home.

“We are incredibly grateful to Town Supervisor Wehrheim and Highway Superintendent Murphy for their quick action, partnership and commitment to building the road in such a short time… Village Chief of Police Chuck Lohmann and Building Inspector Bob O’Shea, out of concern for the seven vulnerable families who had been served by Mill Creek Road, have been strong advocates throughout this process, ensuring the Village does everything possible to allow those families to remain in their homes. We are now thrilled to be able to rescind the emergency evacuation order that had been previously served,” said Village Mayor Michael Utevsky, Head of the Harbor

Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, together with Councilman Tom Lohmann, and Superintendent of Highways Robert Murphy worked in lockstep with Head of the Harbor Village Mayor, Michael Utevsky, Chief of Police Chuck Lohmann, Building Inspector Bob O’Shea, and Village Engineer Dan Falasco to construct a temporary road restoring access for seven homeowners along Mill Creek Road. The privately owned road suffered catastrophic damage in addition to a large chunk of Harbor Road which was also washed away by the storm.

“We come together in times of need and today is an illustration of our unflinching commitment to our neighbors, some of whom can now rest easy, safely in their homes tonight. The Town of Smithtown administration, together with our Highway Department led by Robert Murphy, immediately offered assistance to the Village in the aftermath of record rainfall. We committed our full support in doing everything possible in partnership with our neighboring Head of the Harbor Village. With the completion of this temporary access road, the Village is now able to rescind the emergency evacuation order, allowing residents to remain in their homes safely and as we approach colder weather. I’m deeply grateful to Mayor Utevsky, Chief of Police Lohmann, our Highway Department and most of all the Residents who all came together to help their neighbors through a time of crisis,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

The Smithtown Department of Highways began work last Wednesday, to build a 1,000-foot temporary access road from nearby Emmet Drive, crossing neighbors’ property to ensure the seven vulnerable families served by Mill Creek Road could access their homes. Village Engineer Dan Falasco assisted in the designing the road, ensuring it met emergency access requirements while respecting the wishes of the neighboring property owners who provided access. Construction was approved to move forward just one week after the decision was made, with work commencing on Wednesday, September 25.

“This is the job… and it’s why we all get up and go to work in the morning. This project is symbolic of our steadfast commitment to the community at large, that we will rebuild and emerge stronger and more resilient. We will complete each storm recovery and infrastructure initiative until the very last sump is clear, the last storm drain is inspected and our ecological restoration is sound,” added Robert Murphy, Town of Smithtown Superintendent of Highways.

The successful collaboration between Head of the Harbor and the Town of Smithtown demonstrates the strength of intergovernmental partnerships in times of crisis. The temporary road will allow the affected families to access their properties while a more permanent solution is planned, and serves as a testament to the resilience of the community.

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.

Between You and Me: Happy Birthday to Jimmy Carter (100) and Julie Andrews (89)

by Leah Dunaief - October 2, 2024

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carterandleah — TBR News Media publisher Leah Dunaief meeting the 39th U.S. president, Jimmy Carter, at the White House in 1978. Photo from Leah Dunaief

By Leah S. Dunaief

Jimmy Carter was the first United States President to invite me to the White House. The year was 1978, we had just started our first newspaper, The Village Times in the Three Village area, two years earlier, and the level of excitement was somewhere in the stratosphere when our receptionist screamed, “It’s the White House calling!”

Yes, indeed, it was someone from the White House, asking our address for the invitation to be sent to the Out of Town Press Conference later that month. With entrepreneurial bravado, I had written a letter addressed merely to “The White House, Washington, D.C.” asking if we might visit, not knowing about their monthly conferences at which Carter would gain insight from reporters into issues around the nation, even as he got his top priorities out into the communities. If I had known, I might have doubted his interest in a new weekly newspaper, but I would have been mistaken.

They wanted me.

From the moment of that phone call until I sat in the office with 29 other reporters, talking with the President, that excitement never abated. The session was lengthy, interrupted at one point by the arrival of a boxed lunch. The conversation continued over a hard boiled egg and half a tuna fish sandwich. As I salted my egg and proceeded to down it, I still could not quite believe I was there.

Of course it made a great front page story in our paper when I returned, a photo shaking hands with President Carter a lifetime treasure. At the end of the session, he asked us to line up and tell him our names and where we lived, as a photographer snapped the moment. The line moved quickly, but when it was my turn, I was determined to say something that might be more interesting to him.

“Mr. President, your sister, Ruth, visited my hometown of Stony Brook last week,” I rushed out the words. He stopped the line, his blue eyes large, and smiled broadly at me. I had read that he adored his sister.

“Isn’t Ruth great?” he offered. It wasn’t a question. “Why was she there?”

Ruth Carter Stapleton was a Christian Evangelist and I explained that she had been visiting one of the local Christian schools. He chatted another minute, then again shook my hand, and I moved on. I was in my late 30’s, and it was surely one of the high points of my life.

I was only 14 when I met Julie Andrews. She was one of the leads in the British play, “The Boy Friend,” and I went to a matinee with my eighth grade class on a field trip to see my first Broadway show. Word must have gotten to her that students were in the audience, and she invited all of us back stage to chat as she took off her makeup. She was only 19 at the time and told us she was thrilled with being in America for the first time. We were thrilled in turn to meet her. She didn’t seem much older than we, and the conversation was high spirited girl talk.

Little did any of us know that she would go on to become one of her era’s brightest stars, with a career starting as a child actress and spanning eight decades. She was the recipient of countless awards, and became Dame Julia by Queen Elizabeth in 2000. Her breakthrough American role was as Eliza Doolittle opposite Rex Harrison in the superb “My Fair Lady,” then went on to Queen Guinevere in “Camelot.” As Mary Poppins, in her first film role, she won the Academy Award’s Best Actress, then on to “The Sound of Music,” and many more.

It was fun to know that these two remarkable people shared the same birthday, October 1, and it made my walk down memory lane, this past Tuesday, a fond one.

Lake Ronkonkoma pedestrian critically injured in motor vehicle crash

by Press Release - October 1, 2024

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Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that critically injured a pedestrian in Lake Ronkonkoma on Sept. 30.

Michael Becker was walking southbound in front of 622 Hawkins Ave. when he was struck by a southbound 2016 Subaru Outback at approximately 7:45 p.m. Becker, 46, of Lake Ronkonkoma, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of critical injuries. The driver of the Outback, Stephen Murphy, 94, of Holtsville, was not injured. The vehicle was impounded for a safety check.

Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452.

Editorial: Local hero serves to remind us of what really counts in this life — benevolence

by TBR Staff - September 30, 2024

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holding-hands-858005_1280 — Pixabay photo

TBR’s coverage this week of a heroic cop who plugged a colleague’s bullet wound, with his own hands, to prevent him from bleeding to death, (see story in paper,) is a truly inspirational example of the human spirit.

In a world of such chaos and confusion, what does it say about this man that his primal instinct was to save an injured person? Not to analyze or question him, poke or prod him.

But to save him.

What it says is that we are fundamentally good. We may get that fact a little mixed up at times, but if we can step back from our stubbornness and fixations on the characteristics that separate us, it will become apparent that we all should be focusing on the one characteristic that is already within us, that is baked into our DNA: kindness

And, no. Not kindness in the corny or insincere sense that many people use to deceitfully act as if they are holier-than-thou. “Kindness” in a genuinely caring way about the welfare of those in your life and community.

We can all learn a lot from an action as noble as the one performed by this man.

Over the past few years, there has been contentious debate, analyzing the roles police officers serve in our everyday lives. Some people believe that they overstep, while others feel that they are under appreciated.

Adding to the omnipresence of this law enforcement dilemma, just this week, County Executive Ed Romaine (R) announced in his proposed budget that the Suffolk County Police Department intends to put an extra 330 officials, including cops, detectives and corrections officers, on the force.

However, no matter how one feels regarding the political intricacies of our society, we can all agree that every cop — every human being — should aspire to this level of goodness.

Many people preach the importance of benevolence — an act of kindness, but, far too often, people are not willing to give that word meaning. Police officers take an oath to protect and defend.

So, maybe, if we follow in the example of those who are willing to sacrifice their lives — or in a less severe instance, their comfort — for the care of people, we can live in a society that is a little more temperate, a little more understanding and a lot more loving.

Video: Police seek man wanted for Commack burglary

by Press Release - September 30, 2024

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Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a man who burglarized a Commack home earlier this month.

A man forced entry into a home on Daisy Lane in Commack at 7:32 p.m. on September 13 while displaying a handgun and zip ties at the residents of the home. A resident of the home was struck in the head before the suspect fled the scene on foot toward Shirley Court.

For video of this incident, visit www.Youtube.com/SCPDTV and click on Wanted for Commack Burglary 24CO569409.

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.

Blydenburgh Park still facing the repercussions of flash flood, residents await developments

by Aramis Khosronejad - September 29, 2024

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By Aramis Khosronejad

Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown has been one of Long Island’s shining gems. Its endless outdoors activities for nature lovers and the beautiful scenery of Stump Pond have made it a favorite of Long Island residents.

However, the North Shore flooding Aug. 18-19 dramatically changed the county park’s immediate future. The park, like the Mill Pond in Stony Brook, is suffering the repercussions of the flash flood.

Blydenburgh Park is situated at the headwaters of Nissequogue River and is 627 acres of preserved land. Blydenburgh Lake, otherwise known as Stump Pond due to the stumps of the various trees that were cut down to create the lake, has an additional history which adds to its charm.

The lake was created by a dam constructed by Isaac Blydenburgh and his cousins all the way back in 1798. Over 200 years later, the original dam would be breached by a once-in-a-thousand-years flash flooding for Long Island, according to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s (D) website description. The Weather Network said there was almost 12 inches of rainfall in Smithtown alone.

The destruction of the dam was a catastrophe for Blydenburgh Lake. The water poured into the Nissequogue River, turning the remains of the famous lake into a dry mud land with only a few meager ponds here and there.

There are various consequences of this kind of colossal drainage, one of which is the effect it will have on wildlife in the area. Blydenburgh was a favorite spot for locals to fish, according to On The Water magazine. The drainage of the lake resulted in a “popular fishery being wiped out overnight,” according to On The Water’s Nick Cancelliere.

Residents who enjoy other outdoor water activities such as kayaking and canoeing are pushing for a quick restoration of the Blydenburgh dam.

A month ago, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R) made a public statement affirming the local sentiment about the reconstruction of the dam. “We will be restoring [the dam] as soon as possible,” he said.

The question remains: How will the county manage this immense repair and how long will it take?

Peter Scully is director of business development for Hayduk Engineering of Ronkonkoma and former deputy county executive, and has an extensive history working for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. In an interview with TBR, he underscored the rarity of such an event as the one witnessed by Long Islanders in August.

He continued on, saying how recovery for any park greatly affected by the flash flood, such as Smithtown’s Blydenburgh Park, would take a long time.

Financial support for this size of repair will have to come from the state and federal government.

All that locals are able to do is wait and see how the reconstruction of the treasured Blydenburgh Park will play out, how long it will be and what it will take.

Dunkin’ restaurant in Smithtown celebrates grand reopening

by Press Release - September 27, 2024

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Members of the local community and Dunkin’ fans alike poured into Dunkin’s newly remodeled next generation restaurant at 560 Smithtown Bypass in Smithtown on Sept. 19 as part of its grand reopening ceremony.

Dunkin’ franchisee Scott Campbell of Metro Franchising commemorated the occasion with a $2,500 donation to The Viscardi Center. The Viscardi Center is a non-profit organization that educates, employs, and empowers children, adults, and veterans with disabilities or similar needs, so they can all discover the love of learning, the power of work, the freedom of independent living, and the self-confidence to fulfill their dreams.

“The Henry Viscardi School is proud to be the recipient of such generous support from Metro Franchising and Dunkin’,” said The Viscardi Center Chief Development Officer Lauren Marzo. “Our relationship spans well over a decade, and Dunkin’s support has helped provide critical programs for our students with severe disabilities. These programs help our students learn, grow and take important steps toward an independent future.”

The celebration also included New York State Senator Mario Mattera, Suffolk County Undersheriff John Becker, members of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fourth Precinct, members of the Smithtown Fire Department and representatives on behalf of U.S. Congressman Nick LaLota, who joined Dunkin’ representatives for a commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The morning featured all guests receiving a free medium hot or iced coffee and a donut, while many other Dunkin’ Rewards members spun the Dunkin’ prize wheel for free Dunkin’ merchandise.

The 2,000-square-foot Dunkin’ employs 20 crew members and is open daily from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m.

For more information, call 631-257-5072.

St. Andrew’s Church hosts a little taste of Germany in Smithtown

by TBR Staff - September 27, 2024

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By Craig Brown

On Sept. 21, the spirit of Oktoberfest was alive and well at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church’s annual German Festival in Smithtown.

Over 1,000 attendees from Smithtown and across Long Island gathered to celebrate German culture, food, drink and music. The atmosphere buzzed with joy and laughter as the community came together to support a church dedicated to making a positive impact.

Pastor Jean Dougherty shared the event’s mission, saying, “We are an inclusive church, and we want everyone in this community to feel welcome here.” With a passion for the youth of Long Island, Pastor Dougherty worked alongside the Smithtown West German Honor Society to set up various tents selling merchandise, including German desserts, shirts, hats and a popular hair-braiding station for children. Festival-goers strolled the grounds, enjoying the sounds of Troubadours dressed in Lederhosen and Alpine hats, playing the accordion and singing festive songs.

Barbara English, the festival organizer, donned a bright blue, German Dirndl.

“This is the seventh year we have done this. It is a wonderful way to reach the community,” she beamed. Despite a recent storm that flooded the church’s basement, causing thousands in damages, the volunteers were determined to help the church recover. A 50/50 raffle was held to raise funds for restoration.

The sunny, warm weather created the perfect backdrop for families to enjoy a hearty meal featuring bratwursts, Bavarian pretzels, pickles and plenty of German beer. Many attendees sipped from crafted steins adorned with mountains, lakes and goats, evoking the charm of The Sound of Music.

Jon Leicht, a Smithtown resident and German culture enthusiast, praised the event, saying it offered families a wonderful way to enjoy a Saturday afternoon together. Wayne Mennecke, a Bay Shore poet, added insight, noting that while food lines were long, they allowed people to relish the music, converse with friends and soak up the beautiful day.

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