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Town of Smithtown

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File photo

The Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau, in partnership with the Town of Smithtown Parks Department and Public Safety Department, is hosting a Long Island Cares Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank Stuff-A-Truck event to make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate. The event will be held on Sunday, May 1st, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Smithtown Town Hall, located at 99 W Main Street in Smithtown. 

“Our Town Youth Bureau, along with a great group of community-minded young people, is inviting local participants to ‘Celebrate the Joy of Giving” with them. Time after time, our young people show us all how much can be accomplished with just a little compassion and thoughtfulness,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

All residents are invited to ‘Shop & Drop’ individually, as a family, or with their group. Students have the opportunity to earn community service credit for participating. To earn two hours of community service credit, students should gather and donate at least ten different items from the suggested items list. To earn three hours of community service, students should gather and donate at least thirteen different items from the most needed items list and submit an 8 ½” x 11” card or poster which expresses the theme of “The Joy of Giving,” along with their donation. Students can choose either of these options to earn a Town Certificate of Community Service. A maximum of three hours can be earned.

It is requested that you donate products that are in boxes, cans, or plastic bottles, and do not require refrigeration. To promote healthy eating, we ask for items that are low in sugar/sodium and free of high fructose corn syrup. No glass jars will be accepted. The most needed items right now include: low-fat & non-refrigerated milk; rice; canned vegetables (low or no salt); olive oil (no glass jar); cereal/oatmeal; canned fruits (low or no sugar); tomato sauce (no glass jar); canned meat/poultry/ham/fish; peanut butter; jelly/jam/spreadable fruit; tissues; toilet paper; and canned meals (ravioli, etc.).

Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau staff, as well as Town Youth Advisory Board and student Volunteer Corps members, will be on hand to run this drive-through food donation event and make this an effortless and fun experience for participants. 

For further information, contact the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau at [email protected]. Visit the Youth Bureau website for more information about their other supportive programs and services for students and families at www.smithtownny.gov/youthbureau.

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Photo from Town of Smithtown
Photo from Town of Smithtown
Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Highway Department began the paving season last week, equipped with new machinery geared at saving tax dollars and executing projects at a much more efficient pace. The new BOMAG milling and Cimline pothole repair machines were approved for purchase by the Town Board last Summer (July 2021) and acquired by the Highway Department early this year. On Tuesday, April 12th, Highway crews used the new milling machine to remove old asphalt along Brooksite Drive. The paving of Brooksite Drive from New Mill Road to Jericho Turnpike was completed within two days.  Additionally, the Highway Department did not have to seek private contractors to perform the work, which results in significant savings for the taxpayers.

“Milling work has been farmed out to private contractors in the past. When you look at the big picture, all the roads that are paved inside of one season, adding to that, the cost of inflation, this machine will save a noteworthy amount of tax dollars this year and in the years to come. Additionally, both the milling machine and the pothole repair machine give our road crews an edge to complete high quality work more efficiently, which translates to less traffic, safer roads and happier residents, myself included,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

In addition to the recent work on Brooksite Drive, Highway crews have begun the final phase of work in a three year road reconstruction project for the Forestwood area. This initiative was a community collaboration between the Highway Department and the Forestwood Civic Association. The project involved repairing or replacing damaged concrete, sidewalks and curb cuts, and paving New Mill Road, Flamingo Drive, Larkspur Drive, Cygnet Drive, Teal Lane, Dove Lane, and Mark Drive. This week, the Smithtown Highway Department began the last of the concrete curb and driveway apron work along Cygnet Drive. Final asphalt paving will commence upon the completion of the Cygnet Drive effort.

“We can’t just go in and pave over already damaged roads. When concrete is broken, water gets in and that badly damages the roads. Performing road reconstruction projects such as the one in the Forestwood area will sustain the infrastructure for upwards of 20-30 years. That results in fewer resources required to maintain the Town’s 470 miles of roads, which in turn nets a major savings for Smithtown Taxpayers. This course of action is the responsible thing to do. But we’re also building safer streets for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers, preventing costly motor vehicle repairs, and preventing dangerous and costly flooding from occurring. In conclusion, rebuilding infrastructure with this path forward addresses everyone’s interests, needs, wallets and future,” said Robert Murphy, Superintendent of Highways

Highway crews have begun a similar concrete and road program in the Mills Pond Estates this week. The work is being done in house and will include the replacement of curbing, aprons (where applicable) and curb cuts throughout the subdivision roads. Temporary patch work is currently underway along Meadow Road, while school is out for the Spring break. The Town is actively working with Congressman Zeldin’s office to secure additional federal grant funds to replace the drainage infrastructure and to permanently repair Meadow Road. Additionally, materials required to begin pothole repairs, with the newly acquired machine, are expected to arrive within the next two weeks. Work will begin immediately following. Residents can download the Town of Smithtown Mobile App for real time updates regarding roadwork, detours and potential travel delays.

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Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, pictured with his dog Buddy, is participating in the 11th Annual Legislative Food Drive Challenge to collect pet food for the clients of Long Island Cares. Since 2009, Long Island Cares has provided free pet food and supplies to individuals and families in need, in an effort to enable them to keep their pets at home instead of placing them in shelters.

Legislator Trotta pointed out that, according to Long Island Cares, dog and cat food are the most requested items by their member agencies. “Pets keep many people going, giving them comfort and a reason to survive in difficult times, especially now with many people coping with the effects of COVID-19.  I am asking the kindand generous residents and pet lovers in my district to help out. Last year we collected about 1,000 pounds of pet food,” said Legislator Trotta.

The pet pantry is in need of canned and dry cat/dog food, cat/dog treats, birdseed, and food for fish, rabbits, and ferrets, as well as kitty litter and small new toys. The drive is from now until May 1. Donations may be dropped off, Monday through Friday, from 9am – 4pm, at Legislator Trotta’s office, 59 Landing Avenue, Suite 1, Smithtown. For more information, please call his office at 631- 854-3900.

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Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim

The Suffolk County Village Officials Association (SCVOA) has announced that Smithtown Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim has been tapped to receive this year’s Outstanding Leadership Award. The award for Supervisor Wehrheim’s commitment to the Villages of Suffolk County will be presented during the annual SCOVA Legislative Dinner & Awards Night on Wednesday, April 13th.  Supervisor Wehrheim joins the ranks of many distinguished leaders throughout Suffolk County including his predecessor, Patrick Vecchio, Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr., Senator Phil Boyle, Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey, and Supervisor Ed Romaine.

Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim

“This is a great honor, one I am deeply humbled by. I have to acknowledge and thank our Town’s administration and incredible workforce for the remarkable support and dedication we produce together on a daily basis. Our incorporated villages are made up of our friends, family and neighbors, with visionary leaders, many of whom have led incredibly inspiring revitalization and environmental efforts. To be recognized by the Suffolk County Village Officials Association in this fashion gives me great pride in the work we’ve done together, and all that we will accomplish in the future,” said Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

The Suffolk County Village Officials Association (SCVOA) is a not-for-profit advocacy organization and information resource consisting of 32 incorporated villages representing approximately 10% of the population. SCVOAʼs mission is to inform, support, and advocate on behalf of the 32 incorporated villages of Suffolk County. The Executive Board of SCVOA works tirelessly in its commitment to create a strong, effective, cohesive organization that promotes an exchange of ideas and strategies that enable village government to faithfully serve over 125,000 Suffolk County residents who reside within the incorporated villages.

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Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown is now accepting applications for seasonal personnel to work throughout the Summer months. Employment opportunities are available in a variety of departments for responsible and reliable individuals in search of a rewarding summer job. Pay rates vary based on the position being filled, and level of qualifications. Seasonal jobs working as a certified lifeguard, park attendant, or Summer camp instructor are available in addition to positions working in Public Safety, Municipal Services Facility, Highways, and the Parks Department. For a list of available positions, visit the Town of Smithtown Website at SmithtownNY.gov/514/Seasonal–Job–Opportunities 

“Working for the Town during the Summer has always been a rite of passage for young people. It’s a great opportunity to begin building a resume, in addition to looking great on a college application. Most importantly, starting off with a summer job at the Town of Smithtown will give young people professional & life skills to prepare for the next chapter of adulthood. Many of our Summer staff return to work for the town years later or remain onboard, in a more permanent position,” stated Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

Applicants must be 16 years of age as of 12/31/21, and if appointed and under the age of 18, must provide the age appropriate working papers to be in compliance with NYS Labor Laws. Most of the seasonal positions available are in the Parks, Public Safety and Recreation Department and include laborers, lifeguards, recreation aides, water safety instructors and park attendants.

To apply online for a Town of Smithtown seasonal position, visit SmithtownNY.gov and click on the Seasonal Job Opportunities tab, located in the Personnel Department, listed under the Departments tab on the navigation menu or type in ‘Seasonal Job Opportunities’ in the search bar.  Click on the Seasonal Job Opportunities tab to view a brief description of the positions that are currently available. Click on the position that you are interested in and begin the online application process.

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The Town of Smithtown Youth and Community Alliance, Horizons Counseling & Education Center, and Youth Bureau are pleased to present a service workshop and focus group for all middle school students, high school students, and adults in the community. The purpose is to encourage local teens and adults to come together to find ways to strengthen and better our community. This free event will take place in the Smithtown Library Main Branch Meeting Room, located at 1 N. Country Road in Smithtown, on Thursday, March 24th, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

“Over the last two years, our community has experienced many challenges. The goal of this event is to get young people involved in civil engagement opportunities regarding the environment and substance use, as well as to find out what they think our community needs to thrive.” Kelly DeVito – Horizons Counseling and Education Center Youth Services Coordinator

This interactive event will feature several hands-on activities. Participants will plant seedlings that will be later transplanted into community areas for beatification; take part in a National Drug and Alcohol Facts week game; and give valuable input about the main concerns our community is facing, and brainstorm ways to address these concerns.

Registration is required in order to attend. Anyone interested can register on the Town of Smithtown website on the Horizons, Youth Bureau, and Youth and Community Alliance pages. Space is limited. Community service certificates will be given to participants.

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Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine. File photo by Erika Karp

Fund reallocation would help up to 100 more households

In a letter to the Commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (NYS OTDA), Supervisor Ed Romaine advised that the Town of Brookhaven return and reallocate $1.5 million in administrative funds received from the United States Department of Treasury as part of a second round of Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA-2) funding to address the unmet needs of eligible Town of Brookhaven tenants and landlords. 

In the letter, the Supervisor requested to have the NYS OTDA return the money to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program application portal, which is controlled by NYS OTDA for the benefit of Brookhaven residents. It is estimated that the reallocated funds can help an additional 80 to 100 eligible households that need assistance to pay for rental arrears and prospective rent. 

“Although it appears that the pandemic is nearly behind us, there are still many Brookhaven Town residents who are experiencing economic hardship. The funds are available, and we should do whatever we can to provide assistance so they can stay in their homes,” said Supervisor Romaine. 

“Because the Town worked well with our partnering non-profits and community-based organizations to perform outreach and get the word out, the response from residents was overwhelming. Now, we want to help even more people,” he added.   

In his letter, Supervisor Romaine stressed the urgency of his request since the moratorium on evictions in New York State expired on January 15, 2022. To date, more than 3,700 applications have been submitted to the NYS OTDA and $21,837,851.00 in ERAP funding has been administered to 1,257 households through the Town of Brookhaven’s Department of Housing and Community Development. 

 

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Local gas pump showing the surging price of gasoline.

The skyrocketing price of gas has hit record highs here on Long Island and across the entire United States. TBR News Media took to the streets of Port Jefferson and Setauket to find out how local residents were feeling about it all.

Photo by Jim Hastings

Crista Davis, Mount Sinai

“We’re pretty local, thankfully. I don’t have a far commute, but if I did, that’s something that would surely affect other aspects of my life. I’m fortunate that I live close to everything, but I feel bad for people who have no choice.”

 

 

 

Photo by Jim Hastings

Kenny Dorsa, Selden

“We’re pretty local, thankfully. I don’t have a far commute, but if I did, that’s something that would surely affect other aspects of my life. I’m fortunate that I live close to everything, but I feel bad for people who have no choice.”

 

 

 

Photo by Jim Hastings

Mitch Steinberg, Huntington

“It’s definitely going to make us consider our finances. Conserve a little bit. But we still have to drive to work and do the things we have to do.”

 

 

 

 

Photo by Jim Hastings

Abby Buller, Port Jefferson Station

Owner of Village Boutique, Port Jefferson

“From my business point of view, all of my wholesalers are complaining about their cost rising and having to pay more to employees. So, the higher cost of employees, gas, oil, freight. If I hear anything more about the cost of freight. When my wholesaler increases my cost of $7 an item, I have no choice. I have to pass that $7 on. I used to live in Queens and drive to Port Jefferson every day. I thank God I don’t have to do that, because that would have been, at these prices, a decision to close this store. 

 

Photo by Jim Hastings

Walter Martinez, Shirley

“I pay now double what I was paying last year, but I don’t blame it on the president and I don’t blame it on the government. Everything is just going up. And now with this war thing it’s just getting worse. It is what it is. You just gotta stand by and hope for the best. You know, we gotta pay the price. I do regret that I didn’t go for an electric car before.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Sheryl Brook teaches the process of Maple Sugaring to Hauppauge Girl Scouts Troop 428 (Credit: Town of Smithtown)
Sheryl Brook teaches the process of Maple Sugaring to Hauppauge Girl Scouts Troop 428 (Credit: Town of Smithtown)
Sheryl Brook teaches the process of Maple Sugaring to Hauppauge Girl Scouts Troop 428 (Credit: Town of Smithtown)

Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve in Commack hosted another successful season of maple sugaring for families, scout troops and nature enthusiasts. This unique educational program, available to the general public, teaches the ancient process of making maple syrup/sugar, which was passed down by the Native Americans to the Colonists.

The maple sugaring program is a demonstration, encompassing the history of Native American early life, how maple sugaring was originally discovered, all the way up to present day, the equipment now used and how anyone can tap a tree to make maple syrup or sugar in their own backyards. An interactive portion of the program enlists the help of younger students to teach the anatomy of the tree, the importance of chlorophyll, and the role of photosynthesis in making maple syrup.

“I can’t tell you how special this program is… it is one that every Long Islander should partake in at some point in life, as it is a part of our history that should be treasured for all time. I am so grateful to Sheryl Brook and Jeff Gumin for continuing in the tradition of passing this demonstration down to the generations. I love their passion and genuine enthusiasm which shines through the work they do every day,” said Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

The Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve maple sugaring program is unique in that Black Walnut trees are also tapped for sugaring, in addition to making maple syrup from Maple trees. Maple sugaring season is approximately three weeks out of the year. In order to produce the sweetest sap, weather conditions must be below freezing at night and over 40 degrees during the day. Hoyt Farm taps trees and conducts the maple sugaring program throughout February and in the beginning of March.

“We love every program we offer at Hoyt… teaching young people about our history, wildlife and our caring for the natural habitat is not a job for us. It’s our calling. Sheryl Brook takes special care to put these programs and classes together so everyone leaves with a big smile and plans to come back. She doesn’t do it for the credit, but she truly deserves all the recognition. We’re beloved by the people who visit here because of the tireless work she puts in, together with the assistance of our dedicated team. We had an incredible maple sugaring season and program this year and I can’t wait to top it next year,” said Jeff Gumin, Director, Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve.

The maple sugaring program began in the late 1970’s, and started with one class. It is now a full blown family-oriented interactive experience, available to the general public, (not restricted to Smithtown residents) appropriate for all age groups. School classes, girl scouts, boy scout troops, kids and adults of all ages are welcome and encouraged to take advantage of this unforgettable experience.

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The Town of Smithtown Personnel Department, in collaboration with the New York Blood Center, will host a Blood Drive at the Smithtown Landing Country Club, 495 Landing Ave., Smithtown on March 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“There has been a critical shortage of blood donations, here locally and throughout New York, as covid restrictions made it difficult to host drives in locations which were unavailable for a time. This is a simple, painless process that only takes a few minutes of your time and could save up to three lives with just one donation. I would ask everyone to think about your loved ones. Imagine not being able to get them help because of a shortage requiring a hospital to limit distribution. We have some of the most selfless and giving residents here in Smithtown. I believe we can come together here and now to help our neighbors, friends and family in need of this lifesaving gift,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim in a press release.

Anyone wishing to help make a difference can schedule an appointment at www.nybc.org, click on “Donate Blood”, “Where to Donate”, then “Sponsor Name Search” and type in “Town of Smithtown”. Appointments are preferred but not required. Please remember to eat and drink prior to your appointment. Refreshments and snacks will be provided to all donors at the event.

For every person who donates blood, the New York Blood Center will make a donation to Feeding New York State. Feeding New York State leads the work to end hunger by supporting the food banks of New York State, including local food banks like Long Island Cares and Island Harvest.

Donors Presenting:

  • Must wear a mask or face covering
  • Will have their temperature taken
  • Must be 14 days symptom free if recovered from COVID-19
  • May NOT donate if they have a positive diagnostic test or experienced symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 14 days
  • May NOT donate if they are currently on self-quarantine requirements

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Minimum Weight: 110 lbs
  • No new tattoos for the past 3 months
  • Ages 16 – 75 (Under 16 with Parent’s Permission, Over 75 with Doctor’s Permission)
  • Donor Card or ID required

About New York Blood Center:

New York Blood Center is a non-profit independent blood center that provides lifesaving blood products and services to nearly 200 hospitals in New York, New Jersey, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and parts of Connecticut and Pennsylvania.

DID YOU KNOW:

Only 2% of the local eligible population donates blood each year, and if only 1% more of Americans donated, blood shortages would disappear.

1 in 3 people will need a blood product in their lifetime.

The donation process will take an average of 10 minutes.

For more information on this event and how to register, contact Dineen Szczepanski at [email protected], or at 631-360-7626.

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