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By Heidi Sutton

It looks like some book lovers will have to wait a bit longer. In TBR News Media’s Arts & Lifestyles on March 20 it was announced that the new Barnes & Noble in  Huntington Station at 301 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station would hold a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, March 26.

Author Tessa Bailey will attend a ribbon cutting at 9 a.m.

Now the retail store has issued a statement that the grand opening has been pushed to April in a Facebook post, writing “Hello BN NY Huntington Shoppers! Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties, BN NY Huntington’s Grand Opening will be delayed until April 2nd. We thank you for your continued patience while we make this store perfect for you! We will post an update soon about opening day events, so keep an eye out!”

The retail store lost its lease in the Huntington Square shopping center in East Northport and moved to the current location last year in the space formerly occupied by Johnson Fitness & Wellness. The new store has about 14,000 square feet of space and features books, toys, games and gifts and an updated B&N Café.

“While we were saddened to leave East Northport, we could not be happier with the space we have found in Huntington,” said James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble. “Here we bring the community a completely updated Barnes & Noble and, fittingly, do so right next to the birthplace of one of the greatest American poets.”

“We are so excited to bring Barnes and Noble back to the community of Huntington and surrounding areas,” said Store Manager Kyle Goehle, Barnes & Noble Bookseller of five years. “I can’t wait for all the new memories our customers will make with our brand-new bookstore and café!”

Special guest, New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey, will attend the ribbon cutting on Wednesday, April 2 at 9 a.m. followed by a book signing. For more information, call 631-350-5503.

 

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Hannah Motyka

Nelson, Pope & Voorhis, LLC (“NPV”), a full-service environmental, land use and planning services firm has announced that Hannah Motyka has rejoined NPV’s Long Island office as Project Manager/Sr. Environmental Scientist. Ms. Motyka will be responsible for ecological assessments, habitat assessment, wetland delineation and habitat inventories, preparation of Environmental Impact Statements, environmental assessments and planning studies, land use feasibility analysis, municipal board representation, wetland/regulatory applications and other assignments.

Ms. Motyka brings to NPV an in-depth knowledge of ecological systems  and  extensive skills in geospatial science which includes the use of remote sensing programs and GIS spatial analysis across multiple platforms. Her skillset spans from land use and environmental permitting to Biological Inventory/Monitoring and Sustainable Landscape.  She has a thorough understanding of environmental permitting requirements at the NYSDEC, USACE, NYSDOS, Town and Village levels, and is an expert in the flora and fauna of New York State.

Partner, Kathryn Eiseman says “I am thrilled that Hannah has rejoined the NPV team and I’m looking forward to collaborating on many projects.”

Ms. Motyka received a MA in Biology with a concentration in Applied Ecology from Stony Brook University and a BS in Wildlife Science from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry. She also holds an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Science from Stony Brook University.

ABOUT NELSON POPE & VOORHIS, LLC

Nelson, Pope & Voorhis, LLC, is an environmental firm founded in 1997 that brings a wealth of experience and expertise to complex planning, zoning, environmental analysis, and project management.  NPV serves public, retail, private, institutional, and governmental clients.  NPV’s staff includes AICP-certified planners, certified environmental professionals, economists, ecologists, hydrologists, grant administrators, and GIS/graphic specialists.  The primary focus of the firm is to provide quality environmental, planning, and related services that balance the needs and goals of our clients while protecting the environment.  Clients rely on NPV’s depth of experience and expertise to provide solutions to each unique project within budget and on schedule.  Our New York offices are strategically located on Long Island (Melville) and in the Hudson River Valley (Suffern). For more information, visit www.nelsonpopevoorhis.com.

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Sherry J. Sandler

Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP (Meltzer Lippe) has announced that accomplished corporate attorney Sherry J. Sandler has joined the firm as a partner. A highly regarded leader in corporate law, Ms. Sandler brings unparalleled experience in financial and regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and capital markets transactions to the Long Island legal community.

Ms. Sandler’s distinguished career includes senior roles at leading financial organizations, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), where she served as Senior Director and Associate General Counsel. She has also held prominent legal positions at KCG Holdings, Inc., Knight Capital Americas LLC, and Milbank, LLP, where she honed her skills in securities laws, M&A, and complex corporate governance matters.

During her tenure at the NYSE, Ms. Sandler advised on critical regulatory and compliance issues affecting equity and options exchanges, self-regulatory organizations (SROs), and federal SEC regulations. Her extensive experience equips her to navigate the intricate intersection of corporate law, securities regulation, and business strategy, offering clients unparalleled insights and solutions.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sherry Sandler to Meltzer Lippe,” said Managing Partner David Heymann. “Her extraordinary background and reputation place her among the top corporate attorneys in the region. Sherry’s addition enables us to expand our corporate finance offerings and deliver exceptional value to our clients—both locally and beyond—while maintaining the cost-efficiency of Long Island-based rates. Her vast experience strengthens our ability to serve a diverse client base with sophistication and foresight.”

The Huntington resident expressed her enthusiasm for joining Meltzer Lippe: “After years of working in New York City, I’m excited to bring my breath of experience to private practice and align with a firm that embodies an entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking culture. Meltzer Lippe’s commitment to high-level, sophisticated work and its collaborative environment resonates deeply with me. I look forward to contributing to the firm’s growth while achieving a balance that allows me to prioritize family and personal time.”

In 2023, Ms. Sandler served as General Counsel to several companies under her own Trading & Capital Markets, guiding Fortune 500 companies and financial institutions through regulatory complexities and strategic decisions. She has also served as Of Counsel to several law firms and as outside general counsel.

A magna cum laude graduate of Brooklyn Law School, Ms. Sandler is admitted to practice in New York and New Jersey. She is an active member of professional organizations including Women in Financial Markets (WIFM), the New York and New Jersey Bar Associations, and the Jewish Business Network (JBN) of Long Island.

Ms. Sandler, the daughter of Ukrainian immigrants and a first-generation college graduate, is fluent in Russian and serves on the Membership Committee of Temple Beth Torah in Melville.

About Meltzer Lippe

Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP is a full-service law firm with offices in Mineola, New York City and Boca Raton, FL. The firm’s 80-plus attorneys represent businesses and individuals in over 15 practice areas. For more information, please visit www.meltzerlippe.com.

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Big Lots

By Heidi Sutton

In a last minute strategic move, Big Lots announced in a press release on Dec. 27 that it has agreed to a sale transaction with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, LLC that enables the transfer of Big Lots assets, including stores, distribution centers, and intellectual property, to other retailers and companies, including Variety Wholesalers, Inc. , which owns more than 400 retail stores in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic United States under the Roses, Roses Express, Maxway, Bill’s Dollar Stores, Super 10, Super Dollar, and Bargain Town banners.

The move will save hundreds of stores from closing and prevent thousands from losing their jobs. However, it was unclear whether any of the remaining New York locations would be spared in the agreement.

Variety Wholesalers intends to acquire between 200 and 400 Big Lots stores, which it plans to operate under the Big Lots brand moving forward, and up to two distribution centers. In addition, Variety Wholesalers may employ Big Lots associates at the acquired stores and distribution centers, as well as certain corporate associates needed to support the go-forward footprint.

Bruce Thorn, Big Lots’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “The strategic sale to Gordon Brothers and the transfer to Variety Wholesalers is a favorable and significant achievement for Big Lots that reflects the tireless work and collective effort of our team. This sale agreement and transfer present the strongest opportunity to preserve jobs, maximize value for the estate and ensure continuity of the Big Lots brand. We are grateful to our associates nationwide for their grit and resilience throughout this process.”

Rick Edwards, Gordon Brothers Retail Partners’ Head of North America Retail, said, “We are pleased to reach this strategic agreement with Big Lots and partner with Variety Wholesalers to achieve a path forward that allows Big Lots to continue to serve customers with extreme bargains and an outstanding shopping experience.”

Lisa Seigies, Variety Wholesalers’ President and CEO, said, “We are excited to partner with Gordon Brothers to provide a path forward for the Big Lots brand and hundreds of its stores. We look forward to working with members of the Big Lots team to realize the exciting opportunities ahead.”

According to the press release, the agreement is subject to approval by the Bankruptcy Court and other customary closing conditions.

 

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From left, Harlan Fischer, Kristen Domiano, Stephanie Gress, and Michael Brescia. Photo courtesy of Branch Financial Services, Inc.

Branch Financial Services, Inc. of Setauket is celebrating 50 years of serving clients this month. 

President Harlan J. Fischer founded Branch Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment advisor, on Oct. 1, 1974. According to a press release from the financial business, Fischer “is as committed to its success today as he was in those early days of business.”

“As its founder and principal, the mission he set forth for Branch Financial Services, Inc. 50 years ago was simple—to help clients achieve their personal and financial goals,” read the release. “Beyond this mission, Harlan and his staff are committed to providing a level of service that is rare to find today. They are so serious about this that they trademarked ‘You Can’t Hug an 800 Number’ ™ as their motto.”

Fischer said he takes tremendous pride in Branch Financial Services, Inc., its fiduciary status and independence, which he said carries through to every aspect of the business. The office, located at 21 Bennetts Road, is known for looking more like an art gallery full of contemporary sculptures and paintings.

Before moving the office to Setauket in 2020, Branch Financial Services, Inc. was located in Hauppauge for 21 years and Smithtown for 25 years. The financial business has been a member of the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce since 1995 and the Three Village Chamber of Commerce since 2020.

Several clients have been with Fischer for most of his 50-year career, and their children and extended families have become clients in many cases as well.

Mia and Jerry Vogt, of Massapequa, have traveled to Suffolk County for more than 15 years to consult with Fischer.

“Harlan’s approach to financial planning seamlessly blends traditional values with the demands of a fast-paced modern world,” Mia Vogt said. “His commitment to time-honored principles—such as integrity, long-term vision and personal responsibility—provides a solid foundation for navigating today’s complex financial landscape.”

According to the press release, the “team understands the importance of a personal touch in investment. In an era dominated by impersonal, automated services, the firm’s dedication to understanding each client’s unique needs offers a deeply personalized experience. For Harlan and his colleagues, it’s not just about guiding clients through financial decisions, but also about fostering a trusting relationship.”

Fischer’s colleagues currently include Michael Brescia, Kristen Domiano and Stephanie Gress, who have worked beside him and have known him for many years. According to the press release, “He makes it clear to them that he values and appreciates them every day.”

Brescia provides financial and legal services to his Branch Financial Services, Inc. clients, while Gress is a service associate, and Domiano supervises the office administration, compliance and back office for the firm.

While 50 years may sound like a long time to some, Fischer said, “I feel like I’m just getting warmed up.”

Over the years Fischer has served on many boards for professional and arts organizations. He and his wife Olivia have funded several historic restoration projects in the Three Village area, and they sponsor events and public programming. Currently, Fischer serves as Chairman of the Village of Head of the Harbor Planning Board. 

In 2024 alone, he was named a Best in State Wealth Advisor by Forbes and received the Corporate Citzenship Award by the Long Island Business News.

As he reflects on his years in business, the financial advisor is deeply grateful to Bill Weidner, his mentor from early in his career, and the clients of Branch Financial Services, Inc.

“My career journey has been enriched by the wonderful people I have worked with and for through the decades,” Fischer said. “I eagerly look forward to working with everyone for years to come.”

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Devoshion ribbon cutting ceremony on Feb. 1. Photo courtesy of Devoshion
Devoshion at Smith Haven Mall.
Devoshion at Smith Haven Mall.
Devoshion at Smith Haven Mall.
Devoshion at Smith Haven Mall.

The latest addition to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove, a vegan, cruelty-free store named Devoshion, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Feb. 1. 

Owners Mor Schwartz and Jason McKee were joined by Barbara Franco, Executive Director of the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Scully of Vegan Home New York, and John and Juliana Di Leonardo of Humane Long Island. 

Devoshion, blending “Devotion” and “Fashion,” advocates compassion through its range of vegan and plant-based products. It serves as an indoor craft fair, showcasing local artists and functioning as a gallery for functional art. It is also a venue for live events like comedy shows, live music, Karaoke Nights, DIY workshops, yoga classes, and more. Customers can  hang out, eat vegan food, try local craft beer, and buy and sell collectibles, comics, action figures and specialized toys. 

All items in Devoshion are vegan and cruelty-free, and the proceeds of select items, including sloth, kangaroo, and capybara plushies, are donated to Humane Long Island. In addition, in celebration of its grand opening, all of the proceeds from select plushies and a portion of all vegan candy sales up until Valentine’s Day will benefit Humane Long Island’s work to help animals on Long Island.  

Located at 313 Smith Haven Mall in the Lifestyle Village across from Dick’s Sporting Goods, Devoshion is open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call 631-394-8296 or visit www.devoshion.com.

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From left, Britt Burner, Esq., Hon. Gail Prudenti and Nancy Burner, Esq.

On Aug. 16, Burner Law Group, P.C. announced that it changed its name to Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. and welcomed new Partner Hon. Gail Prudenti, former Chief Administrative Judge for the State of New York. 

The hiring and new name reflects the firm’s three partners — Nancy Burner, Britt Burner and Gail Prudenti — and the firm’s continued expansion of its Trust & Estates and Elder Law practices.

“Gail Prudenti is one of New York’s preeminent trust & estates attorneys with decades of experience as a distinguished judge, an outstanding law school dean, and as a trusted attorney,” said Nancy Burner, Founding Partner. “Adding Gail positions Burner Prudenti Law to uniquely serve our clients’ growing needs for elder law and trust & estates expertise.”

Founded in 1995, as Nancy Burner & Associates and later, Burner Law Group, the firm is a wholly women-owned full-service boutique law firm specializing in elder law, estate planning, trusts & estates and real estate with offices in East Setauket, East Hampton, Westhampton Beach and NYC.

Over the years, the firm has developed a reputation for excellence, compassion and integrity, helping clients with matters involving wills and trusts, wealth management, guardianship, and long-term care.

“In thinking about the next chapter in my career, I wanted an opportunity where I could continue to make a difference in the community and help families solve their legal issues — Burner Prudenti Law provides me with both opportunities,” said Hon. Gail Prudenti, Partner. “I am delighted to be joining such an outstanding team of attorneys and a firm that shares a commitment to providing exceptional legal services, bettering the Long Island and New York community, and putting clients’ needs first.”

“This is an exciting time for the law firm, and we look forward to continuing our mission to help clients plan for their future through valuable and trusted legal services,” added Britt Burner, Partner. “Judge Prudenti’s wealth of legal and administrative knowledge will be invaluable to the firm’s work and the client experience.”

For more information, call 631-941-3434.

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By Heidi Sutton

Last call for a visit to Christmas Tree Shops.

The Deer Park location at the Tanger Outlets is scheduled to close on Aug. 12 while the Riverhead store at 1791 Old Country Road will close on Aug. 22. Liquidation sales are currently underway. As of July 31 all holiday items are 70% off and the regular merchandise is 30% off. All purchases are final. 

Christmas Tree Shops, which is owned by Handil Holdings after being acquired by the now-bankrupt Bed, Bath and Beyond in 2020, filed for bankruptcy in May. Over 70 stores in 20 states will close by the end of the month.

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The DMV In the Three Roads Plaza will close its doors on Aug. 25. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

The Port Jefferson Station office of New York State’s Department of Motor Vehicles will close by the end of August. 

In a press release on July 27 the agency announced that it is consolidating its brick-and-mortar locations in Suffolk County and that the closing was part of its strategic transformation plan and “ongoing efforts to maximize operational efficiencies and best utilize taxpayer resources.”  

The office, located at 1055 Route 112 in the Three Roads Plaza, will no longer serve customers after August 25. Operations and staff at that location will be absorbed by the other four offices in Suffolk County which include Medford, Hauppauge, Dix Hills, and Riverhead.

“One of the foundational goals of our transformation effort is to change how we operate and to work more effectively in a fiscally responsible manner,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “All decisions about our office locations are made with our customers and employees top of mind, and through careful consideration and analysis of the facts and data.”

Schroeder said the decision was based on the expansion of the DMV’s online and self-service transactions which had led to a declining number of in-person transactions at the Port Jefferson Station office.  

“Because of the significant expansion of our online footprint, our appointment system, and the processing efficiencies we have gained in the past two years, we see an opportunity to shift our workforce to the other locations in Suffolk County to maximize the capacity in those offices and ultimately to serve our customers better and faster,” he said.

There are currently more than 70 transactions and services available at DMV.NY.GOV that customers can use to better prepare to visit an office and make their experience as seamless as possible or skip the trip altogether. Customers can renew a driver license or vehicle registration online, order a duplicate document, request their driving record, pay fees and fines, check the status of their ID, change their address and more. 

For in-person transactions, customers are encouraged to visit the Medford office at 2799 Route 112, which is approximately 10 miles from the Port Jefferson Station location. 

“The average customer who visits [the DMV office] is in and out in less than 30 minutes thanks to DMV’s appointment scheduling system that allows customers to avoid waiting in line” said the release.

For more information, call their customer service number at 1-800-698-2931.

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Dr. Neal Murphy. Photo courtesy of NYCBS

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS) recently announced the addition of oncologist-hematologist Neal Murphy, MD. 

Dr. Murphy will practice at 750 Old Country Rd, Riverhead,640 County Rd, Southampton, and 49 Route 347, Port Jefferson Station.

“Dr. Murphy’s dedication to research and patient care is truly commendable,” said Jeff Vacirca, MD, CEO of NYCBS. “We are proud to have Dr. Murphy join our practice and look forward to the positive impact he will make in the lives of our patients.”

Dr. Murphy has dedicated his time to research focusing on kidney and bladder cancer. Dr. Murphy completed two translational research studies, including “Prognostic molecular signatures for metastatic potential in clinically low-risk stage I and II clear cell renal cell carcinomas,” which was published in Frontiers in Oncology, and “Predictive molecular biomarkers for determining neoadjuvant chemosensitivity in muscle-invasive bladder cancer” which was published in Oncotarget. 

Dr. Murphy has several other peer-reviewed publications and has presented his work at national conferences. He remains passionate about optimizing treatments in hematology/oncology and treats a broad spectrum of diseases with a focus on genitourinary, lung, head and neck, colorectal and skin malignancies, as well as multiple myeloma and lymphoma.

“I strive to get to know all my patients, build trust and provide the kind of care that one of my family members or I would want to receive,” Dr. Murphy said. 

“When communicating with patients, I am honest and open, explaining all treatment options and agreeing on the best, personalized treatment plan together. It is rewarding to be able to alleviate a patient’s anxiety and fear about their diagnosis and to be able to provide hope because there are so many effective treatments NYCBS and I can offer to help patients.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Murphy, please call 631-751-3000. For more information, visit nycancer.com.

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