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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 These historical documents not only honor their personal history but also serve as an inspiration to our community about the power of perseverance in the pursuit of the American Dream.”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.

2024 Election Results: Republicans claim the night in Suffolk County

by Toni-Elena Gallo - November 6, 2024

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Nick LaLota celebrates his victory on Nov. 5. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Toni-Elena Gallo and Aidan Johnson

At Stereo Garden in Patchogue, the GOP was a sea of red on the evening of Tuesday, Nov. 5. Guests mingled with drinks in hand, as music blared over the club’s speaker system.

The event was hosted by Jesse Garcia, chairman of the Suffolk County Republican Committee and Brookhaven Town Republican Committee, whose high energy propelled the evening and invigorated the large crowd. He spoke of the resilience of the Republican Party through the tumultuous past four years, and expressed confidence in Suffolk’s support for members of the GOP.

LaLota victorious over Avlon in battle for Congress, Avlon concedes

As results poured in from around 10 p.m. to the early hours of the morning, the race considered highly important in the flipping of the House majority in Washington, was decided. Incumbent Nick LaLota, representative of the 1st Congressional District, won 55.7% of the vote to Democratic opponent John Avlon’s 44.3%.

“Thank you so much to every single one of you. I’m only here because of everything you’ve done. You made the phone calls. You knocked on doors, you planted lawn signs,” LaLota said to the room.

“You’ve placed your trust in me and I’m going to take another term of office in a few weeks so I can continue to fight for you,” he continued. He added that he has run on his record, which is one committed to bipartisanship, and has seen more bills passed by him than “95% of Congress,” bringing “$150 million home” to Suffolk in the process.

“It’s a hard night in Suffolk County for us Democrats, it’s a hard night for many Democrats, but the fight continues,” Avlon said in a speech at the IBEW Local 1049 Union Hall in Holtsville, where many of the Suffolk County Democrats congregated for a watch party.

“It’s really important for us to keep the energy up, and understand that this is not a time for us to shirk back, but it is a time for folks to stand up continuously, because the good fight never ends and democracy depends on loving your country no matter who is president,” he added.

Anthony Palumbo celebrates his victory on Nov. 5. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Palumbo comes out on top in state Senate race

Incumbent Republican state senator of the 1st District, Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk), beat Democratic opponent Sarah Anker, with 53.4% of the vote, to Anker’s 46.6%.

“This is a team win. I want to thank my wife, to thank my friends in law enforcement who supported us. We did this most importantly because of you folks. This is many, many months in the making,” Palumbo said. He continued by saying that he and his supporters worked hard on his campaign because “it is about what’s best for our constituency.”

Anker has not yet released a statement.

Mattera wins out over Herskowitz in NY 2nd Senate District

Incumbent Mario Mattera beat Craig Herskowitz, winning his third term in the 2nd Senate District, 58.7% to 41.3%.

Mattera was not on hand to make a speech, as he was in Smithtown speaking at another event. Chairman Garcia expressed his congratulatory feelings for Mattera, leading the crowd in a round of applause for him.

Kassay and Flood in tight contest for 4th District Assembly seat; Giglio defeats Chiaramonte in 2nd District

As of 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, no result has been confirmed for the state Assembly race between Republican incumbent Ed Flood and his Democratic opponent Rebecca Kassay, both from Port Jefferson. Kassay currently is leading Flood by 211 votes (29,246-29,035). The final result has not yet been announced as of press time.

Jodi Giglio (R-Riverhead) easily beat out Tricia Chiaramonte with 64.9% of the vote, to Chiaramonte’s 35.1%. Chiaramonte did not actively campaign against incumbent Giglio.

Fitzpatrick victorious over Basileo in NY 8th Assembly District

Incumbent of 22 years, Michael Fitzpatrick (R-Smithtown), beat Democratic candidate Steven Basileo by a sweeping 66.4% to 33.6%, in the 8th Assembly District.

Fitzpatrick was just one of many Republicans who has been reelected to his seat, as newer Democratic politicians did not attract the same amount of support across the North Shore. Voters seemingly preferred the current occupants.

10th and 12th Assembly Districts

In the 10th Assembly District, Democratic incumbent Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills) beat Republican Aamir Sultan, 55% to 45%. In the 12th District, incumbent Keith Brown (R-Northport) defeated Democrat Thomas Cox, 57.5% to 42.5%.

4th District Court Judge, Town of Smithtown

Republicans Paul Damato and John Zollo beat Democratic candidate Maria Scheuring, receiving a combined 79.2% of the vote — 39.6% each — winning the two vacant seats, while Scheuring received 20.7% of the vote. Scheuring was not active during this election season.

All these results are noted by the Suffolk County Board of Elections as “unofficial.”

6th District Court Judge, Town of Brookhaven

Evan Tannenbaum, Patricia Blake and Kenneth Lauri won the three available seats for District Court Judge of the 6th District. They received 23.4%, 23.2%, and 22.0% of the vote, respectively, beating out Democrats Margot Garant and Dorothy Cavalier.

“I want to thank the Town of Brookhaven and my fellow Republicans,” Lauri said. Tannenbaum echoed similar sentiments.

All these results are noted by the Suffolk County Board of Elections as “unofficial.”

Smithtown awarded $21.3 million for sewer district expansion

by Press Release - November 6, 2024

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406437842_782061763964206_8141128826735423883_n — Smithtown Town Hall

The Town of Smithtown has been awarded $21.3 million in funding from the State of New York, which will be distributed to Suffolk County for the downtown (Smithtown) Sewer District expansion project.

This funding was announced on November 1 as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2024 Local Water Infrastructure Improvements initiative. This latest award announcement, raises Smithtown’s total grant funding to over $40 million in the last six years and over $80 million since the Administration took office in 2017.

“We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul, our dedicated partners in Suffolk County and the State of New York for making this essential project possible. With their support, Smithtown is at the halfway mark to make necessary improvements that will not only modernize our infrastructure but also enhance the future of our business districts, environment, and community,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim in a press release.

The $21.3 million in funding will be directed to Suffolk County for the Smithtown Business District Sewer Extension Project, marking a pivotal step in the town’s mission to support healthier infrastructure, protect environmental resources, and boost local economic growth. This grant reflects ongoing collaboration between Smithtown, Suffolk County, and New York State.

Over $40 million in Smithtown tax dollars directed back home to Smithtown in six years includes:

$1.38 million for stormwater flood mitigation infrastructure for Smithtown and Kings Park awarded by Congressman Nick LaLota through the Interior and Environment Appropriations bill.
$10 Million Dollar Downtown Revitalization Initiative, for the business district of Kings Park
$13 million in American Rescue Plan aid funds from Suffolk County for the Town of Smithtown.
$10 million towards the Smithtown’s Business District Sewer Construction
$3 Million towards connecting the St. James Business District to Sewer Treatment District #28 at Fairfield.
$5.4 million in funding from Suffolk County for the Kings Park streetscape work and competition of the Sewer District 6 expansion
$2.5 Million in funds from the Suffolk County JumpStart grant for traffic calming and streetscape improvements in Kings Park
$1,280,951.44 for the Long Beach Road Elevation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was awarded through the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services’ Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
$1Million USDA Urban and Community Forestry Grant program for tree planting and maintenance
$1.1 Million Edgewood Avenue Corridor Grant secured through Congressman Lee Zeldin through the community development fund.
$900,000 in Suffolk County JumpStart funds for the acquisition and restoration of the century-old Calderone Theatre, which is currently in disrepair.
$500,000 in Suffolk County Jumpstart Funds to Build Kings Park Municipal Parking Lot on Pulaski Road
$200,000 for the Emergency Operations Center from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was awarded through the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services

Funding brought back to Smithtown since 2017 also includes:

$40 Million Dollars from the State of New York, under the State’s Transformative Investment Program (TIP), for Suffolk County to connect Kings Park Business District to Suffolk County Sewer District No. 6 and to go towards the sewer expansion project for the Downtown of the Smithtown Hamlet.
$799,982 for the Local Government Efficiency grant program – Town of Smithtown Highway Services Consolidation
$97,375 in Regional Economic Development Council grant funding for the Stormwater Management Feasibility Study for Cordwood Path ($72,375) & St James Visioning Study ($25,000)

“Since Supervisor Wehrheim’s appointment in 2017, Smithtown has dedicated significant resources to securing competitive state and federal grants to strengthen its infrastructure and community programs. The awarded funds have been allocated across a variety of transformative initiatives, from downtown revitalization to flood mitigation, municipal infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. The Town of Smithtown is committed to utilizing every resource to ensure the health, safety, and economic prosperity of its residents. With over $80 million in grants secured since 2017, Smithtown continues to make meaningful progress toward a brighter and more resilient future,” read the release.

TBR News Media 2024 Endorsements of Paul Damato and John Zollo

by TBR Staff - November 2, 2024

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By TBR staff

TBR News Media is endorsing Paul Damato (R, C) and John Zollo (R, C) for the two judges vacancies on the 4th District Court in the Town of Smithtown.

Both men’s dedication to the Smithtown community makes them an asset to a position that oversees a variety of cases, including but not limited to civil disputes, family matters, small claims and housing issues, all of which will directly affect their neighbors.

Their combined strong suits, which run the gamut from Zollo’s empathetic approach to justice, to Damato’s extensive experience in property evaluation, tax law and even serving as the Village of Port Jefferson assessor — will make for balanced and substantiated rulings.

Damato is a man who has chosen a field of law that requires great patience and know-how, and his knowledge of legal study is impressive. Additionally, Damato views the judiciary as requiring a “balance of technical precision, and fair application of law,” further emphasizing that his decisions will be grounded in his comprehensive study of primary and secondary legal sources. His comfortability with property-related cases sets him apart from his peers, as Damato truly derives pleasure from the practice of legal intricacies.

Zollo’s posts as assistant county attorney, Suffolk County, as well as town attorney for Smithtown, have prepared him for the procedural handling of local government issues, civil litigation and community centric cases. His understanding of legal ordinances has provided Zollo with the type of “inside” knowledge he needs to properly serve his town. He has viewed his various positions as a way to connect with his community, one person at a time, and Zollo’s strong standing within local circles allows him insight into the individualized needs of local residents. He prides himself on approaching each one of his cases with compassion and respect, feeling that his duty is that of a public servant — not an authoritarian. He shared that being a judge “is not just about knowing the law, it’s about understanding people, and what they need from the law.”

In addition to both men’s numerous attributes, it is important to note that Damato has extensive leadership experience. He served as president of an attorney appraiser and architectural engineer association. As an academic, he has taught legal education courses at the law schools of St. John’s University and Fordham University.

With Maria Scheuring’s decision not to come in, we have no choice but to exclude the Democratic nominee from our consideration. However, Scheuring does not lack in experience, and is a seasoned lawyer, with over two decades of experience. She is a trial and appellate attorney with experience in matrimonial, family and guardianship law, who started her career as an assistant district attorney in the Bronx. Additionally, Scheuring founded two law firms in which she has represented a broad range of clients, including corporations, musicians and major insurance companies. She later served as an associate attorney in NYC firms, focusing on plaintiff’s no-fault litigation, workers compensation, social security disability and high-stakes corporate defense work for municipalities and international companies. She ran a 2021 campaign for Town of Smithtown supervisor, losing to Ed Wehrheim (R),

Consequently, we feel that John Zollo and Paul Damato are the best judges choices for the 4th District. They are intelligent, personable and, most importantly, veterans in the legal field. They have what it takes to serve their district with dignity and admiration for not only judicial, but also the Smithtown community.

Paul Damato and John Zollo: Candidates for Smithtown’s 4th District Court Judge

by TBR Staff - November 2, 2024

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While judges are not allowed to campaign, they were able to tell us about their backgrounds.

In their recent meeting at the TBR News Media office, John Zollo (R,C) and Paul Damato (R,C), both candidates for the Town of Smithtown’s 4th District Court Judge positions, showed they bring substantial legal experience and complementary qualifications to the race. While they share core beliefs about the role of a judge, they each bring different strengths from their varied careers. They are each running against the Democratic candidate, Maria Scheuring, who did not come in to tell us about her background.

John Zollo’s background, career and approach

John Zollo has developed a well-rounded career rooted in family and civil law, emphasizing his dedication to public service and community-centered justice. He said he wanted to be a lawyer “from the time I was in the third grade … [partially] because anyone who was anybody in history were mostly lawyers.” After graduating from Fordham University, Zollo attended New York Law School, which laid the groundwork for his legal path. He began his career as an assistant county attorney for Suffolk County, gaining extensive experience in handling a variety of local cases. Later, as the town attorney for Smithtown, Zollo became attuned to the specific issues affecting residents, from family law matters to municipal legal concerns.

Zollo describes his approach to the bench as one centered on accessibility and empathy. He believes that judges should be relatable and deeply invested in the well-being of their communities, stating, “It’s not just about knowing the law, it’s about understanding people and what they need from the law.” Personally, Zollo has strong ties to his Italian American heritage, which he embraces through family traditions such as cooking. His personable and warm demeanor aligns with his philosophy that a judge should be someone the community feels comfortable approaching, especially in cases involving personal and family disputes.

Paul Damato’s specialized expertise and perspective

Paul Damato brings a specialized focus in real estate tax and property valuation law, fields in which he has practiced for over 36 years. After earning his law degree from Hofstra Law School, Damato concentrated on real estate tax reduction law, representing both property owners and government agencies. This dual role — “working on both sides of the V,” as he puts it — has given him a balanced view of property-related cases, an area he believes is central to Long Island’s economy. In addition to his legal practice, Damato serves as the village assessor in Port Jefferson, a position that further informs his perspective on property and tax issues facing the community.

Damato’s life outside his profession is similarly community focused. He and his wife, who live in St. James, are raising a teenage son, and Damato values the family-oriented atmosphere of Long Island. Beyond his legal work, Damato has lectured at Fordham and St. John’s law schools on property law, reflecting his dedication to education and professional development within the legal community. His approach to being a judge is methodical and technically informed, aimed at delivering fair, well-reasoned judgments that take into account the complex economic factors influencing local property law. “Real estate is the heartbeat of Long Island,” he said, underscoring the importance of understanding property issues at a practical level.

Distinct but complementary judicial approaches

While Zollo and Damato share a common dedication to serving Smithtown’s residents, their judicial philosophies reflect their backgrounds. Zollo’s experience in family and civil law, combined with his community-oriented approach, positions him as a judge who prioritizes empathy and accessibility. His approachable nature and commitment to community well-being align well with cases that involve personal and interpersonal issues.

In contrast, Damato’s focus is rooted in the technical and procedural aspects of property and tax law. His extensive experience as both a representative and assessor offers a pragmatic, detail-oriented approach that could be highly valuable in cases involving property disputes, assessments or economic issues impacting the district. Damato’s balanced approach and deep understanding of property law provide a unique skill set that complements Zollo’s focus on people-centered justice.

Together, Zollo and Damato represent two experienced, community-centered options for voters in Smithtown. Their combined backgrounds — Zollo’s personable approach and Damato’s technical expertise — provide a comprehensive choice for the district’s judicial needs.

Summary written with some assistance from ChatGPT’s services, and all information proofed and vetted by TBR’s editing team.

Spooky fun weekend in Smithtown features Ghosts & Goblins Day and Trunk or Treat event

by Press Release - October 30, 2024

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The Town of Smithtown celebrated a weekend of Halloween excitement with two community events that delighted families and spread some early festive cheer. The festivities began on Saturday, October 19th, with the annual Ghosts and Goblins Day, hosted by the Town of Smithtown Recreation Department at Browns Road Park in Nesconset. More than 250 children and their families gathered for a fun-filled afternoon, featuring pony rides, music, games, prizes, and a balloon artist. Many attendees donned their Halloween costumes, adding a spooky flair to the event.

Ghosts and Goblins Day was a free event for Smithtown residents, offering entertainment for the entire family. In addition to the activities, attendees generously contributed non-perishable food items, which were later delivered to the Smithtown Food Pantry. Donors received raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes in a raffle held during the event.

On Sunday, October 20th, the Halloween celebrations continued with the Town of Smithtown’s Trunk or Treat event in the parking lot at Town Hall. The event, organized by the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau in partnership with the Supervisor’s Office, Public Safety, and the Parks Department, attracted over 300 families, who enjoyed treats from more than 25 creatively decorated trunks. Participants also enjoyed games, music, and plenty of Halloween fun.

“We are very happy that we were able to serve over 100 families with these fun family events. We are so thankful to the community members and town employees who participated. Everyone’s collaboration together added to its success,” said Executive Director of the Youth Bureau, Janine Marc-Anthony.

The event saw contributions and participation from local community organizations, town departments, and businesses, including the Animal Shelter, the Youth Advisory Board, Mathnastium, The Smithtown Library, Podcat Farms, The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, and their students, Dawn Viola’s Team at Caldwell Banker American Homes, NorthShore Psychological Services.

In the days leading up to the weekend, the Smithtown Youth Bureau partnered with Girl Scouts of Suffolk County Troop 552 to distribute over 130 Halloween costumes to families in need. The troop, along with their leaders and families, collected costumes and set up a “shopping” area in the community room, where families could find the perfect costumes for their children.

Both events and the costume drive were huge successes, highlighting the spirit of community and giving back during the Halloween season. From the fun-filled games and activities to the charitable efforts of costume donations and food drives, the weekend provided something for everyone to enjoy.

Commack community gathers for unveiling of Survivors Park project sign at Valmont Park

by Press Release - October 30, 2024

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On Oct. 28, Commack community members and local businesses gathered together at Valmont Park for a special unveiling ceremony to kick off the upcoming construction of Survivors Park, a tribute and reflection space dedicated to breast cancer survivors and their loved ones. The Town of Smithtown hosted the event in partnership with St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, who donated $50,000 towards the project, and the Greater Commack Chamber of Commerce, to announce plans for Phase One, set to begin in Spring 2025.

“Survivors Park will be a reminder to every mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and niece that you will not fight alone. We are a special community. One that comes together in our darkest of hours, that celebrates together in our brightest and best days. The people you’ve heard from today are great stewards of this point. Together we can endure the unthinkable. Together we will celebrate the victories, big and small. Together we will build Survivors Park,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Community leaders such as NYS Senator Mario Mattera; Declan Doyle, President of St. Catherine of Siena Hospital; Dr. Jana Deitch, Breast Surgeon and Director of the Siena Breast Health Program at St. Catherine of Siena Hospital; Thomas Morrissey and Venise Mulé Smith from the Greater Commack Chamber of Commerce, Jeff Reiss of Morgan Stanley; and breast cancer survivor Leslie Drake, spoke at the event, expressing the park’s significance as a place of healing, reflection, and community strength.

The project’s initial phase was made possible courtesy of a $50,000 donation from St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, matched by the Town of Smithtown, and an additional $5,000 donation from Morgan Stanley. Over the course of the next few months, the Greater Commack Chamber of Commerce will facilitate additional donations from local businesses, and families who wish to support the vision behind the space. The support from these organizations underscores the community’s commitment to honoring survivors and supporting their families.

Survivors Park will serve as a permanent reminder of the strength and resilience of those impacted by breast cancer. Phase One of the park design includes a pathway shaped in the form of an Awareness Ribbon, creating a symbolic entrance near the playground. Future phases of the park will introduce benches, ornamental lighting, and a Reflection Pool to create a peaceful, reflective space for visitors. Lush landscaping with native flowers and cherry blossom trees will enhance the space, offering year-round beauty.

The sign unveiling drew a large crowd of Commack residents and local businesses, who gathered to celebrate this meaningful addition to Valmont Park. The ceremony, held during Breast Cancer Awareness month, was a touching reminder of the community’s dedication to its members, providing strength to those impacted by breast cancer.

Opposition grows as court approves Gyrodyne environmental review

by TBR Staff - October 27, 2024

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Flowerfield_1 — Head of the Harbor village trustee and neighborhood preservation coalition spokesperson, Judy Ogden, speaks in favor of a lawsuit aimed at delaying the Gyrodyne subdivision approval on the Flowerfield site. Photo by Chris Mellides

A recent court decision found that the environmental review of the proposed Gyrodyne development plan met the minimum legal requirements, but the legal battle is far from over, according to members of the Saint James – Head of the Harbor Neighborhood Preservation Coalition. The coalition, along with the Village of Head of the Harbor and local property owners, filed a lawsuit challenging the review. Meanwhile, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is finalizing appraisals to acquire portions of the property for preservation as open space.

“The fight to preserve this important parcel as open space is not over,” said Judy Ogden, a Village of Head of the Harbor trustee and spokesperson for the coalition. “We plan to appeal the recent court decision. More importantly, the DEC is continuing efforts to acquire Flowerfield Fairgrounds for preservation.”

The Gyrodyne site is located near several farms and includes land in the Mills Pond National Historic District. The proposed development includes a 125-room hotel, 175,000 square feet of office space, 250 assisted living units, a sewage treatment plant and parking for over 2,500 vehicles. These elements require special approvals from the Smithtown Town Board, as they are not allowed under current zoning regulations.

Smithtown’s recently updated Comprehensive Plan recommends that assisted living facilities be located in designated areas, not near residential neighborhoods. It also states that mixed-use projects like the Gyrodyne plan should be developed in business districts, not along highways.

“Based on sound planning principles alone, the town has the authority to reject the Gyrodyne development,” Ogden said. “This project would overwhelm St. James and Head of the Harbor with traffic and damage water quality in Stony Brook Harbor.”

The coalition and local officials have long opposed the development. In 2021, the group expressed support for converting the entire site into a park. If that wasn’t possible, they supported a compromise to preserve the 48-acre Flowerfield Fairgrounds as open space while allowing limited development on land already occupied by buildings.

Severe flooding

After the Smithtown Planning Board approved the subdivision on March 30, 2022, the coalition and 23 local property owners filed a lawsuit, arguing the environmental review was inadequate.

“The review process was not thorough,” said Joseph Bollhofer, a member of the coalition. “It didn’t seriously consider public input and failed to account for severe weather events.”

On Aug. 19, a 10-inch rainfall caused severe flooding around the Gyrodyne site, forcing the closure of Route 25A for three days.

“Even with most of the property undeveloped, the flooding was enough to burst the dam at Stony Brook Mill Pond,” Bollhofer said. “If Gyrodyne’s development had been in place, experts say it could have destroyed the historic Stony Brook Grist Mill.”

Bollhofer added that the coalition plans to challenge the court decision, citing the review’s failure to account for the increasing frequency of severe storms.

“The community’s support for our legal efforts is a testament to the widespread opposition to this development,” Ogden said. “We will continue to work with the DEC and local officials to preserve Flowerfield Fairgrounds for future generations.”

Local elected officials, including Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R) and county Legislators Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) and Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga), have all opposed the Gyrodyne subdivision and expressed strong support for preserving the site.

Smithtown residents have a haunting good time at 19th Annual Hoyt Farm Halloweekend Festival

by Press Release - October 26, 2024

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Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve hosted its highly anticipated 19th Annual Halloweekend on Oct. 19 and 20. The beloved event, which has become a cornerstone of the Smithtown community, attracted approximately 2000 residents over the two-day celebration.

As one of the town’s most popular annual events, Halloweekend traditionally sells out without the need for advertising, and this year was no exception.

Families delighted in the array of seasonal activities that transformed the nature preserve into a spooktacular wonderland. From games and prizes to live entertainment, delicious fall fare, and an array of food options, there was no shortage of fun for attendees.

“My grandkids talk about this event all month long beforehand. They don’t want to leave the preserve at the end of the day and neither do I if I’m being completely honest. Jeff Gumin and his amazing team at Hoyt Farm devote months of planning, preparation, building and implementing Halloweekend each year. They put every ounce of heart and soul into treating everyone, like a member of their family. They truly manage to outdo the previous year every year… it’s a real testament to how much they adore caring for the preserve and the guests who visit,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Every year, the dedicated team at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve creates a magical atmosphere filled with classic Halloween fun. From hayrides and pumpkin picking to spooky games, face painting, crafts, scavenger hunts, and an unforgettable haunted house, the event has something for everyone. Staff members join in the festivities, donning themed costumes to greet children and parents alike, many of whom arrive dressed in their own Halloween best.

The staff at Hoyt Farm prides themselves on making Halloweekend a memorable experience for all who attend. Their mission is simple: to create a festival where adults can feel like kids again, and children can transform into superheroes, mythical creatures, or whatever their imaginations dream up.

The Hoyt Farm Halloweekend is exclusive to Smithtown residents, offering a wide variety of games, crafts, and entertainment that bring the community together each fall.

For more information about Hoyt Farm, please visit them online or call 631-543-7804.

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