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Gloria Rocchio

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The newly reopened Mill Creek Road. Photo courtesy the Ward Melville Heritage Organization
Mill Creek Road. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
Mill Creek Road. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
Mill Creek Road. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan
Mill Creek Road. Photo by Caroline O'Callaghan

By Caroline O’Callaghan  

Village of Head of the Harbor residents and local officials showed up Wednesday, May 7, to mark the triumphant ribbon cutting for the reopening of the scenic side street Mill Creek Road, which had been severely damaged from the catastrophic floods that occurred Aug. 18 2024, destroying the entrance to Harbor Road and the adjoining Mill Pond. Officials expressed their hope in what lies ahead for the massive reconstruction project of Harbor Road, since it is a critical access point for residents as well as emergency vehicles traveling to the nearby university hospital. 

In acknowledgment, Gloria Rocchio, president of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, spoke of the impressive completion of the road, which couldn’t have been orchestrated without the ingenuity of Excav Services Inc. Vice President Dylan Governale and team. 

“I just learned this morning that these pieces of steel, each one is 30 feet long, it’s 66 pieces of steel here, and it ended up being 23 sections. So, this man worked through sleet, snow, rain, fall leaves coming down and spring coming, and he did it in six months. He’s an amazing young fellow. We congratulate you,” Rocchio spoke of Governale. “To see this completed is extraordinary. It took a lot of effort from a lot of staff people and myself, but we accomplished it in six months, and I look forward to seeing the other road [Harbor Road] completed,” she continued.

Village of Head of the Harbor Mayor Michael Utevsky was also in attendance. He recalled the early days of the road’s reconstruction as chaotic. “There was no road here, there was no bluff — the whole bluff was collapsing. Trees were falling into the creek. The creek had been diverted to this side, right against the bluff, so there was continuing erosion of the bluff,” said Utevsky. “The first thing that [Governale] did was rechannel the creek back where it belonged. Then they had to rebuild the bluff. They had to drive in the steel files. They had to put in vertical deadmen to hold it, so this is just artificially built to reconstruct what used to be here.” 

Before billowing floodwaters reclaimed the street-lined bluff, the asphalt on Mill Creek had stood since 1888 and was 1 foot thick — a very prestigious feat of engineering for that time period, according to Utevsky. “Most roads in our village are old carriage paths which have very little foundation and not much asphalt, so I’m surprised by how much asphalt they found here,” Utevsky said. 

Despite the celebratory turnout, officials who have been overseeing the restoration of Harbor Road and its surrounding area since August remain discouraged over the lack of progress that’s been made to the main road. Legislator Steve Englebright (D, East Setauket) felt that it was important to center the natural disaster in the discussion, rather than project blame on human failure. “The event was an act of nature…What we need to do is acknowledge that this storm — which killed three people in Connecticut and damaged the whole north central part of Long Island — wasn’t any human being’s fault. If we can acknowledge and agree to that then we can go to the next step which is to agree to work together to solve this problem,” said Englebright. 

Englebright emphasized the main priority of restoring Harbor Road would be to service residents in emergency situations, he continued, “Harbor Road being out [of service] right now worries me because for the residents who might have a need for emergency care, or need to get to the university hospital right now, they have to go the long way around and that could cost lives.” 

The project was not without challenges. Most of the road was done in January, then Governale had to wait for some items in order to finalize it. 

Governale hopes the build can offer residents a sense of relief that the task of an effective, total restoration for Harbor Road is coming. 

He said, “It will restore some normalcy to the residents that live down this road, finally.”

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Members of the Anna Strong Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Photo by Michael Rosengard
Gretchen and Herb Mones. Photo by Michael Rosengard
From left, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, Herb Mones dressed as George Washington, and Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico.
Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico speaks at the event.

It’s a National Celebration of the birth of America – and it kicked off right here in the Three Villages. On May 2, the Anna Smith Strong Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution hosted a special celebration titled “250 Years STRONG” at the Setauket Neighborhood House.

While many might not know- across the country events are being planned to mark America’s Semiquincentennial.  It was 250 years ago that the “Shot Heard Around the World” rang out during the battle of Lexington and Concord – considered to be the first military engagement of the Revolutionary War.  On Long Island, the Strong family played a pivotal role during the Revolution through their actions in the Culper or Setauket Spy Ring.

The Culper Spy Ring is credited by George Washington as being a major factor in turning the tide of the American Revolution by providing valuable intelligence to at great risk to themselves.

The Anna Smith Strong Chapter was named for a courageous member of the celebrated Culper Spy Ring, and hosted an event commemorating her role and honoring the American spirit.

Participants enjoyed an evening of history, community and celebration in a picturesque setting – the Setauket Neighborhood House. Keynote speaker and local historian Margo Arceri spoke of the remarkable life of Kate Wheeler Strong. There were raffles, awards and patriotic provisions provided by chief sponsor, David Prestia of Bagel Express. Costumes were optional but fun!  People came in Revolutionary War dress to make things more festive.  Sponsor Michael Rosengard of North Island Photography & Films created an art installation (that included Anna Smith Strong’s clothesline and more) and was the official event photographer. 

Recognized at the event for their historic preservation and education contributions were:  Margo Arceri, local historian/Tri-Spy Tours/Three Village Historical Society; Beverly C. Tyler, author/historian/Three Village Historical Society; and Gloria Rocchio, President of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization. 

The Anna Smith Strong Chapter received Proclamations from NYS Senator Anthony Palumbo, NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright and Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico and Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich.

There was an entire ‘regiment’ of sponsors that helped guarantee the success of the event: Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, The Ward Melville Heritage Organization, Krista’s Design Studio, Margo Arceri, Scott Heaney Mill Creek Agency, Inc., Legislator Steve Englebright, The Setauket Neighborhood House, Guy Nicosia/ CEO Strategic Planning, Beth Shatles, Joe Ventimiglia Fine Art, P Mones and Herb Mones, Island Federal Credit Union, Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, Colleen Keneflick, Dr Nora Galambos, RADIANCE by the Harbor, and the Reboli Center for Art and History.  In addition, dozens of local businesses donated raffle prizes.  

Several of the community’s leading organizations showcased their activities, literature and programs in the Lakeside Room including the New York Marine Rescue, Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium, Ward Melville Heritage Organization, Three Village Community Trust, Three Village Garden Club, Reboli Center and the Rocky Point Historical Society who all shared information and more. 

Interest was ‘revolutionary’ – and the event quickly sold out. Money raised will go towards education, historic preservation and patriotic/veteran’s endeavors.  Check the DAR’s website for further information on the event or to see what will be happening during the upcoming year: https://annasmithstrongnsdar.org

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Kristen Reynolds

By Jennifer Donatelli

Long Islanders know they’re lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places in New York state and across the globe. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a new or recurring visitor, there’s always something to discover on Long Island. 

Kristen Reynolds, CEO and president of Discover Long Island, is at the helm of this nonprofit organization that markets the region as a world-class tourist destination.

Reynolds has been named a TBR News Media Person of the Year for her transformative leadership, exceptional community involvement and unwavering commitment to advancing tourism and economic development on Long Island.  

Reynolds and her team at Discover Long Island work to promote a positive perception of Long Island across the globe, which draws lucrative visitors, stirs business attraction — and drives economic development throughout the region — all for the purpose of improving the quality of life for Long Island residents. 

Her appointment as CEO in 2018 marked the beginning of a new era for Discover Long Island, the region’s premier destination marketing organization. Under her stewardship, the organization has seen unprecedented growth in tourism, regional partnerships and community engagements, elevating Long Island’s profile as a world-class destination, attracting 41.8 million visitors each year and significantly boosting the local economy by generating over $5.8 billion in revenue for the Island in 2021. 

Gloria Rocchio, president of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, witnessed this firsthand, having been on the board that hired Reynolds. Describing her as “a creative person who thinks out of the box,” Rocchio says Reynolds is a visionary who inspires and empowers those around her and says hiring her was “the best decision we ever made.”

Under Reynolds’ helm, the nonprofit has undergone a complete overhaul and refocused its internal strategy, including rebranding and social media. “When I first got here,” Reynolds explains, “we had one Facebook page and no social media.” She continues, “We focused on communications, content creation and rebranding.” Currently, the organization employs 25 full-time employees, including an entire in-house social media and video production team that maintains and grows the company’s 11 social media accounts, You Tube channels, a weekly podcast called Long Island Tea and most recently an AI chatbot on their website named LILI. Reynolds describes her team as “eating, sleeping and breathing our brand,” and they wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“Kristen has completely transformed the way Long Island is perceived, both in the U.S. and internationally,” says Rocchio. “Her ability to connect with people, build partnerships and elevate Long Island’s offerings has been nothing short of remarkable.”

Originally from Midland, Texas, Reynolds graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in public relations and began her career as a coordinator for the Arizona Tourism Bureau. She spent six years there, eventually becoming the youngest tourism director in the state of Arizona. 

Claiming she’s “always up for a challenge,” Reynolds has rebranded and marketed countless organizations, resorts and tourism bureaus, including turning the Sheridan Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa in Chandler, Arizona, into the only five-star, five-diamond resort on Native American land in the entire state. 

As a single mom of two young girls at the time, Reynolds admits it was a tough decision to uproot them and move across the country to “the middle of nowhere” as her friends say, but she did it and has never looked back. “I love Long Island, the beaches, the close proximity to New York City and the four seasons,” she says with a smile.

Championing a blend of marketing innovation, strategic partnerships and sustainable tourism development to ensure Long Island remains a top-tier destination, Discover Long Island has expanded its reach with digital marketing campaigns that spotlight the Island’s diverse attractions — from its world-renowned wineries and beaches to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Reynolds is a staunch advocate for Long Island’s community. She believes that true progress can only be achieved when communities work together, and her tenure has been defined by a focus on collaboration.

Dede Gotthelf, experienced this firsthand. Owner of the Southampton Inn, Gotthelf said the need to attract visitors in the fall and winter months has always been a must for the local business communities “With Kristen’s innovative marketing ideas, she has transformed the East End into a year-long destination vacation spot.”

In addition to her work with the community, Reynolds works closely with local governments, civic organizations and nonprofit groups to ensure that Long Island’s tourism growth is sustainable and beneficial to all. Her efforts have fostered a spirit of inclusivity, ensuring that Long Island’s future remains bright for everyone, from residents to tourists.

Crediting much of her success to a philosophy rooted in empathy, transparency and empowerment, Reynolds believes in leading by example, working closely with her team to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and that all ideas are considered. This approach has earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and fellow Long Islanders. 

Reynolds says she is fortunate to have the support and hard work of her driven team who understand the mission and purpose of Discover Long Island. “They’re passionate about what they do. We make it look fun and glamorous, but the expectations are high and I run a tight ship.”

Sharon Wyman, chief operating officer at Discover Long Island, and a native of Bay Shore, has been with the company for 23 years and has seen firsthand the changes that Reynolds has made. “Before she came there, we needed a major overhaul and to rebuild relationships within the Long Island community,” Wyman credits Reynolds with the success of Discover Long Island and says, “She is always the first to know what we need and makes things happen.” 

Wyman says Reynolds takes the team under her wing and is a great mentor to the staff. 

“Her best quality as a leader,” explains Wyman, “is that she is an innovator who likes to take risks, and bring new ideas to life.” Reynolds’ co-workers describe her as a “fun, humble and warm hearted” leader who is a great mentor and is not afraid to take risks. 

Ed Carr, director of sales and advocacy and stewardship for Discover Long Island, has worked with Reynolds for three years and describes his boss as being “exceedingly competent and an iconoclast.”  He explained that her legislative knowledge, marketing and tourism experience and the fact that she’s not from Long Island, allows her to be able to bring an outside perspective on what needs to be done. 

Carr says, “Kristen is very cutting edge. She’s always looking to do something that hasn’t been done. She has a desire to try new things. As a result, we are trendsetters in the tourism industry.” Carr explains that it is refreshing to have someone who understands the big picture of politics, cause and effect, and who is always looking for new ways to fund or streamline the processes. 

“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m excited for what’s next as we continue to shape the future of this amazing destination,” Reynolds says with a smile.

As Discover Long Island continues to innovate and shape the future of tourism on the Island, Reynolds remains focused on ensuring that the region’s growth benefits everyone. Her leadership style, her unwavering commitment to the community and her vision for the future have solidified her place as a true leader, not just in tourism, but in Long Island’s overall development.

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Gloria Rocchio standing in front of the Stony Brook Village post office. Photo courtesy of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization

By Rita J. Egan

Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s 45th Annual Holiday Festival on Dec. 8 filled the Stony Brook Village Center with holiday spirit as entertainers played music, a short parade featuring large puppets weaved through the center and Santa visited with children.

It was hard to believe that diagonally across the street from the Village Center laid the remnants of a summer storm that brought down several inches of rain during a short time in the late evening hours and early morning hours of Aug. 18 and 19, altering a landmark in its wake. The deluge of rain left the historic Stony Brook Grist Mill’s dam breached and the Stony Brook Mill Pond drained. Harbor Road running along the pond and Mill Creek Road were destroyed, and part of a home and its backyard fell into the Mill Pond.

Heading up the charge to keep the Stony Brook Village Center, which WMHO owns, running smoothly despite the devastation and working to restore the Stony Brook Mill Pond to its former glory has been Gloria Rocchio, WMHO’s president.

Regarding the aftermath, Rocchio said it was the worst weather-related damage she knows of since she became WMHO president more than 40 years ago. Despite the tragedy, Stony Brook Village Center businesses remained open, and events such as the holiday and Halloween festivals have continued. For her leadership and stewardship skills in keeping continuity and order, TBR News Media has named Rocchio one of its People of the Year for 2024.

Rocchio said when the news of the dam breaching awakened her, she didn’t sleep for the rest of the day. The WMHO president has had to balance environmental, historical preservation, commerce and tourism concerns in the following months.

Regarding juggling all the responsibilities, she said, “I have a very good staff but inevitably I have to be involved.”

She also has been grateful for volunteers (see sidebar) who have offered assistance. Among them, joining WMHO employees, were more than 70 nearby residents who cleaned debris and dead fish in Stony Brook Mill Creek on Aug. 22. Some debris came from the home that partially fell into the pond. Among the items found were suitcases, furniture and apparel. Some larger items, such as a lawn mower, couldn’t be removed immediately.

Rocchio said WMHO was grateful for the help they have received. Reflecting on the last few months, she was reminded that Stony Brook’s hamlet gets its name from the stony mill creek. “This is the heart of Stony Brook.”

Richard Rugen, WMHO chairman, said Rocchio has been working 24/7.

“It is a job for three people, and the reason she’s able to handle it is that she not only has been doing it for a very long time, but she has worn so many hats on Long Island relative to civic things, that she’s got an inventory, a mental inventory, that is like none other.”

Rugen added that Rocchio began her journey with WMHO during a time when she was able to get to know philanthropist and developer of Stony Brook Village Center Ward Melville, as well as his wife, Dorothy, and other notable WMHO board members. To this day, Rugen said, Rocchio respects their vision of the Stony Brook Village Center and WMHO’s other properties.

“I don’t think a board meeting goes by — and if it does, it’s a short one — where the Melville mantra is not brought up: What would Dorothy and Ward think of this idea?” Rugen said. “So, they are still there in that respect.”

Since the storm, Rocchio has been in constant contact with elected officials, including Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket). The legislator has worked on various projects with WMHO and secured grants for the nonprofit during his former role as a New York State assemblyman.

Englebright said Rocchio tremendously respects the architectural and overall vision of Ward Melville and Richard Haviland Smythe, the Village Center’s architect. The legislator has seen Rocchio at work, most recently restoring the historic eagle on the center’s post office.

“It’s a fragile entity that needs constant attention and care, and in this case, repair, and she’s the right person,” Englebright said. “She’s doing almost curatorial-quality care for that architectural treasure that is the village, but it’s not a static exhibit. It’s a community. It’s where people live and shop.”

Englebright said that during the last few months after the storm, Rocchio has continued making the Village Center a welcoming place and kept it “vibrant and economically viable,” adding that such a task is important but not easy.

“She’s not just passively overseeing the Ward Melville Heritage Organization,” the legislator said. “She’s making sure that it remains a part of our living experience and our consciousness.”

WMHO board grateful for community’s help

Ward Melville Heritage Organization President Gloria Rocchio and Chairman Richard Rugen said they appreciated the assistance Long Island residents offered after the August storm that left Stony Brook Mill Pond drained.

Rae Marie Renna, general manager of the Three Village Inn, drove from the South Shore immediately after hearing about the dam breach and offered rooms to occupants of five homes that were evacuated near the dam.

Rocchio said Avalon Nature Preserve offered to patrol by the Stony Brook Grist Mill after people were walking into the drained pond, which is dangerous as the mud acts like quicksand. Residents have also called animal rescuers such as Sweetbriar Nature Center and Frankie Floridia, of Strong Island Animal Rescue League, when they have spotted fish and wildlife in distress. Both Rocchio and Rugen said the animal rescuers who have saved fish, turtles and more were risking their own safety when walking in the drained pond.

Rocchio added that some of the animals were confused after the storm. Canada Geese have been sitting on a sandbar when the tide goes up and then swim with whatever water is there. One goose adopted TEB North Country Car Care service station after the pond drained and was named Scooter. Owner Brian Barton and his staff gave the goose cracked corn and water. When it was too hot, they bought the goose a kiddie pool to swim in.

Olivia Ross, of Port Jefferson, has been selling bracelets inscribed with Stony Brook Strong and Save the Mill Pond for $2 each where all proceeds are going to WMHO. Rocchio said,  “She has worked tirelessly with us.”

The WMHO president and chairman said among the volunteers, especially during the Aug. 22 cleanup, were Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (D-Stony Brook), New York State Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson) and Lois Reboli of the Reboli Center for Art and History. Local businesses such as Crazy Beans Restaurant, Sweet Mama’s Restaurant and Premiere Pastry Shop contributed food and beverages, while Stony Brook Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals, along with Lessing’s Hospitality Group and the Three Village Dads, also took part in the cleanup. Stony Brook Fire Department was on standby to assist in an emergency, and the Town of Brookhaven Highway Department delivered dumpsters.

Rugen said they were grateful for everyone who had volunteerism “in their hearts.”

 

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File photo by Raymond Janis

Clarifying roles: Code officers don’t need firearms

The recent decision by the Village of Port Jefferson board to disarm code officers is a commendable step toward responsible governance and a more precise understanding of law enforcement roles in our community. This move has sparked important public discussions, highlighting a critical misconception: the idea that firearms equate to authority.

It’s important to emphasize that code officers, whose duties involve upholding local ordinances and ensuring quality of life, operate within a well-defined legal framework. New York State law does not permit these officers to carry firearms. The belief that a weapon enhances their authority is not only incorrect but also potentially hazardous.

Arming code officers unnecessarily escalates risk, creating a false sense of power that could lead to confrontations. Instead, de-escalation tactics, conflict resolution and proactive community engagement are far more effective tools for achieving the goals of code enforcement.

The Village board’s decision rightly prioritizes these approaches, fostering a safer environment for both residents and officers. By removing firearms from the equation, the board promotes a less adversarial and more collaborative method of code enforcement. This shift builds trust and mutual respect — essential ingredients for a thriving community.

Drew Biondo

Former Port Jefferson Trustee

Missing the boat: A rebuttal to the Three Village start-time debate

In the Nov. 21 issue of The Village Times Herald [“Not an experiment” ],  John Hover made a lackluster attempt at rebutting my very valid point regarding the waste of time and money that has been, and will be, spent on the inane changes to the district’s start times. He spouted the same nonsense about the “less than 1% of the budget” that it will cost and the overwhelming effects it will have on attendance, grades, performance etc.

Amusingly enough, he admits that the Three Village plan falls far short of the so-called recommendations and lacks any “well-documented evidence” with respect to the impact the whopping 30-minute change the district’s budget contingency plan will have. He also misses the boat in his comprehension of all that may be lost when the millions of dollars this change requires are reallocated elsewhere.

But again, who cares about electives, class sizes, extra-curricular activities etc. that may fall by the wayside when high school kids will have more time for their at-home endeavors with 30 extra minutes of “sleep”? It is indeed a fantasy that students will sleep longer, particularly if they have parents who refuse to set strict guidelines at home.

I am not willing to sacrifice all that may be lost for some half-cocked plan based on “research” that does not support what these parent “experts” love to spew and I am most certainly not in the minority.

Stefanie Werner

East Setauket

Keep diners dishing: Support your local classics

This holiday season, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, if you are too tired to cook, why not consider sharing a meal with neighbors, friends or family and patronize your local diner or restaurant? I have enjoyed many excellent meals for decades at various local diners.

Diners have been part of my life from teenage years to today. Eating out is a periodic ritual with either friends or family. Portions are generous. Who hasn’t taken a doggie bag home with leftovers to eat the next day? Between the customary soup, salad, rolls, coleslaw and pickles along with the main course, dinner could satisfy the heartiest appetite. Many times, we bagged our desserts to go.

Many neighborhoods have seen changes over time. New immigrant groups sometimes favor their own ethnic foods and restaurants. Diners have also lost customers over time to numerous fast-food restaurants. Many fast-food menus now include breakfast items and a greater variety of options for lunch or dinner.

Remember, these people are our neighbors. Local entrepreneurs who own and operate diners continue to invest in our community, creating new jobs without the assistance of federally funded taxpayer stimulus dollars. They work long hours, pay taxes and provide local employment. If we don’t patronize our local restaurants, they don’t eat either.

Why not honor the fond memories of our favorite diners, which have come and gone, by continuing to patronize the ones we still have? Here’s hoping the remaining diners don’t go the way of the dinosaurs into permanent extinction.

  Larry Penner

 Great Neck

Corrections for last week’s article entitled “Stony Brook begins road repairs 90 days after August storm

1. Nov. 18 was a Monday, not a Tuesday. Also, work did not begin until Nov. 20, which was a Wednesday.

2. The construction is on Mill Creek Road, which is owned by The Ward Melville Heritage Organization, not Harbor Road, which is owned by the Town of Brookhaven.

3. Avalon Nature’s Mill Pond is not correct. The Stony Brook Mill Pond is owned by The Ward Melville Heritage Organization, not Avalon.

4. The Ward Melville Heritage Organization does not oversee the Village of Stony Brook, we oversee the Stony Brook Village Center, which is owned by one of Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s subsidiaries.

5. Restoring the village to its former state – we would like to restore the Stony Brook Mill Pond to its former state.

Gloria Rocchio

President of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization

Ed Note: We regret these errors and apologize for any confusion caused

 

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Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

By Toni-Elena Gallo

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, construction began on Mill Creek Rd. in Stony Brook Village, following August’s catastrophic flooding. The storm not only collapsed the road, but emptied Stony Brook’s Mill Pond, caused destruction to surrounding homes and displaced the area’s wildlife.

According to Gloria Rocchio, president of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, it is a bit of poetic justice that construction began on Wednesday, as it was “exactly 90 days” since the flood hit. However, the rebuilding of Stony Brook is far from complete.

“The Town of Brookhaven will be doing the road and they’re in the design stage at this point. As for tomorrow, they’ll probably start taking down trees,” said Rocchio. “They’re going to start clearing what’s in the creek, because right now, there’s pieces of cesspool down by the grist mill. There’s also a white film on some of the muck, which I heard is detergent, meaning every time the tide goes in and out, the water is taking it to different places,” she continued. The Grist Mill, a Stony Brook staple since 1751, may have up to eight feet of “sand and muck” impacting its turning capabilities, Rocchio said.

Rocchio described the aftermath of August’s storm as “all-consuming” but said she is focused on rectifying the situation and restoring the Stony Brook Mill Pond to its former state.

The WMHO president also stressed the importance of avoiding the collapsed area on Harbor and Main streets as well as the drained Mill Pond itself. She explained that curious passersby have been found standing in the creek, Mill Pond and mud near Harbor Rd. “When we did a cleanup with volunteers, someone got very badly stuck in there. It is like quicksand,” Rocchio said.

In light of the federal government’s response to Gov. Kathy Hochul on Monday that Suffolk County’s flood damage is “not of the severity and magnitude to warrant the designation of Individual Assistance,” Rocchio said many homeowners, including Ron Borgese—a man who lost a portion of his home on the corner of Main St. and Harbor Rd.—have been left reeling.

“Apparently, the area is not devastated enough, but I don’t know how much more devastated you need to be,” Borgese said in a phone interview.

“The house is condemned and the property is shot. So far, I got nothing from anybody.”

Borgese is currently staying with family while awaiting word on assistance. He does not have flood insurance.

Rocchio said the community’s support during this time has deeply touched her, noting that people have donated amounts ranging from $50 to “thousands.”

In the coming weeks, WMHO will host a Christmas auction to raise money for storm damage relief.

For more information on FEMA’s decision, visit www.tbrnewsmedia.com.

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Olivia Ross’ bracelets, which read Stony Brook Strong or Save the Mill Pond. 100% of the proceeds are donated to reconstruction efforts. Photo courtesy Olivia Ross

By Toni-Elena Gallo

Olivia Ross may live in Port Jefferson now, but Stony Brook will always be where her heart is.

The devastating storm that hit Suffolk County on Aug. 18 and continued into the early morning hours of the next day, left Stony Brook in complete disarray, draining the Mill Pond and destroying businesses and homes. Ross, who grew up in the village, felt she needed to spring to action and help the community that has provided her with such happy memories.

“When I was little, all the way up to me taking my nieces and nephews there. So, when I saw that nothing was there, there was no life, it just broke my heart,” she said in an interview.

“Then I said, ‘Why not have this community come together and do something good? Something to unite all of us together?’ I knew I had to do something to help, because it’s so important to me — there will always be a piece of me [in Stony Brook].”

“I thought of this idea because when I was younger, and the BP oil spill happened, my aunt created these bracelets and sold them to give donations to a company that was helping clean up. So, I thought ‘What a great idea,’” Ross continued.

After meeting Ross down at Stony Brook Harbor Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals, Gloria Rocchio, president of The Ward Melville Heritage Organization, said that what she’s doing is “wonderful.”

“The paddleboard business is helping her with sales, and [when we spoke] she expressed incredible affection for the Mill Pond,” Rocchio said. “If the general public desires, they can support the community in this very difficult time.”

Ross said that 100 percent of the proceeds will go to The Ward Melville Heritage Organization for repair and restoration efforts.

“We’re backing them up, and we want to help restore such important parts of the community,” Ross added.

Ross customizes the bracelets, which she buys in bulk, to say “Stony Brook Strong” on one side and “Save the Mill Pond”’ on the other. The bracelets sell for $2 each but donations are also accepted.

“I wear mine every day,” Rocchio said.

Ross explained that with all the “negativity that goes on in the world,” she was pleased to see the positive reactions she received on Facebook, where her bracelets are available on both her and WMHO’s pages, as well as through her email, [email protected].

“I’ve sold over a hundred, and I’m almost up to a thousand dollars in donations, so I am trying to spread the word more. I’ve had a couple of businesses reach out to me asking if they could buy some in bulk, and then sell them in their stores. I love that idea,” Ross said.

And, as far as the damage that remains in Stony Brook, Rocchio explained that the WMHO is working with all facets of government, including at the federal, state, county and in conjunction with the towns of Brookhaven and Smithtown, to get Harbor Road rebuilt, among a host of other issues.

The Stony Brook Grist Mill will be getting help as early as Friday, from an excavation crew, which will begin digging out the sand damage from under the mill’s wheel, by hand, to allow it to turn once again.

It takes a village. 

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Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Johness Kuisel
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Johness Kuisel
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Johness Kuisel
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Johness Kuisel
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Stony Brook Mill Pond. Photo by Denis Lynch

By Toni-Elena Gallo

The village of Stony Brook is on the mend following the devastating Aug. 18-19 storm.

Gloria Rocchio, president of The Ward Melville Heritage Organization spoke to TBR News Media about the latest updates on Harbor Road., the Mill Pond, Mill Creek Road and the community as a whole.

On Saturday, Aug. 24, All Souls Episcopal Church on Main Street held an After the Flood  Thanksgiving ceremony, celebrating the resilience of the village. Both Christian and Jewish prayers were recited, as well as the Lakota Native American prayer, “O! Great Spirit.” People were gathered, songs were sung and according to Rocchio, “healing happened.”

Stony Brook University, which saw some dormitory basements flooded with up to 9 feet of water, has been assessed, and the damage cost is estimated at $22 million.

In addition, the Avalon Nature Preserve’s displaced wildlife is being attended to by Strong Island Animal Rescue League in Port Jefferson Station, and Sweetbriar Nature Center, located in Smithtown.

“A night heron was found under a creek, afraid. Sweetbriar took it, gave it medicine and released it behind Rob Taylor’s house, which is on the creek. And, I’ll tell you, that bird took off like crazy,” Rocchio said.

“As for the creek, the wildlife is coming back. There’s some water, there again. Mallard ducks, two swans — it’s coming back. But, unless the dam is rebuilt and the road is built, every time there is heavy rain, it will end up behind the creek, behind the houses or in the houses,” she added.

Rocchio said that the flow of water has changed since the house on Harbor Road was destroyed. “The flow has to go back, because there is so much sand in the creek, it needs to be taken out and put back where it was, because it is eroding all the trees on Mill Creek Road. Every time the tide [from Stony Brook Harbor] goes in and out, it erodes the land more.”

The Mill Pond has seen an increase in water flow as well. However, “the sand coming in” with it, is not good for the health of the pond. The sediment running along with the water is, however, instrumental in “flushing it.”

“But, it still flows from springs, from all over. But, not a lot,” she elaborated.

Rocchio is hoping elected officials will “move quickly” to restore the area’s delicate ecosystem.

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August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours Mill Dam storm damage in Stony Brook. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours SUNY Stony Brook storm damage. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours SUNY Stony Brook storm damage. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours SUNY Stony Brook storm damage. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
August 27, 2024 — Stony Brook, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul tours SUNY Stony Brook storm damage. (Susan Watts/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
Extensive water damage at the Gitto Group’s properties. Photo by Rob Gitto
Extensive water damage at the Gitto Group’s properties. Photo by Rob Gitto
Extensive water damage at the Gitto Group’s properties. Photo by Rob Gitto
Extensive water damage at the Gitto Group’s properties. Photo by Rob Gitto
Extensive water damage at the Gitto Group’s properties. Photo by Rob Gitto
Extensive water damage at the Gitto Group’s properties. Photo by Rob Gitto

By Toni-Elena Gallo

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R) and Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico (R), declared a State of Emergency, following the Aug. 18-19 devastating storm.

Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) responded by procuring President Joe Biden’s (D) approval for a federal Emergency Declaration. This allows for federal resources and assistance to be provided for the necessary repairs, prevalent in hard-hit western and middle Suffolk. FEMA will provide emergency protective measures, such as the protection of critical infrastructure facilities. According to the state’s website, “with this Emergency Declaration secured, New York’s disaster recovery experts are continuing to work with local and federal partners, to determine the state’s ability to also request a federal Major Disaster Declaration and low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.”

Hochul toured the damage of both Stony Brook University and the site of the Mill Pond dam collapse. At the event, Hochul said, “In the wake of unprecedented rainfall, we continue to support Suffolk County to ensure those impacted can get back to life as usual as quickly as possible. … But seeing the people of Long Island come together to rebuild, shows the true strength of New York.”

Over in Port Jefferson, the toll of the extreme weather event is still being felt.

Rob Gitto, of the Gitto Group in Port Jefferson village, was blindsided by the severity of the storm.

“We were watching the storm closely, as we do with other major storms. I went to bed at 11;30 p.m. We checked our cameras, watched our radars and it looked like everything was going to stop in an hour,” Gitto said.

“But, this was a unique storm, where it apparently came from the North to the South, so it was a different situation. In fact, one of my employees was on standby, and went down to both [our] buildings, at around 12:30 p.m., and everything seemed fine. But, I just happened to wake up at 1:30 a.m., and whenever I can see the floors of one of the lobbies glistening, I know it’s water,” he added.

Gitto went down to the area immediately, and walked into a disaster area.

“Unfortunately, there was nowhere to pump water at that point. This particular area is taking on quite a bit of the village’s stormwater. You can see it in video footage, coming down the hill, and hitting the CVS, Barnum property, first, and then it seeped into The Brookport property.”

He said that Brookport, on Barnum Avenue, was made with the “latest and greatest” drainage requirements, but the almost-11 inches overwhelmed the system. Flood doors were on some of the water entry points, but those were, also, quickly overcome. The properties do have flood insurance. 

Gitto said his main priority in the coming months will be to replace the cardio equipment in the two gyms, rip up the carpets, take out the damp sheetrock and repainting.

Rocky Point is not faring much better. Hagerman Landing Road, a dead end street, had five homes severely flooded.

In the coming weeks, more information will become available about updated financial aid disbursements.

For all the latest coverage, go to our website at tbrnewsmedia.com.

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Ed Flood, Jonathan Kornreich and Gloria Rocchio addressing the volunteers. Photo from WMHO
Ed Flood, Jonathan Kornreich and Gloria Rocchio addressing the volunteers. Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Photo from WMHO
Photo by Coleen Higgins
Lessings Hospitality Group with Gloria Rocchio, WMHO President. Photo from WMHO
Photo from WMHO
Second cleanup planned for August 28.

On August 22, the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) organized a creek cleanup event in response to the recent storm that caused significant damage to Harbor Road and the Mill Pond in Stony Brook. The event brought together over 70 dedicated volunteers from Stony Brook and surrounding areas to address the aftermath of the storm, including the removal of debris and dead fish from Mill Creek.

The cleanup effort saw an outpouring of community support, with participants expressing their eagerness to contribute to the community.

Notable contributors included New York State Assemblyman Ed Flood and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, who lent their support and presence. Lowe’s generously provided essential supplies, and local businesses such as Crazy Beans Restaurant, Sweet Mama’s Restaurant, and Premiere Pastry Shop contributed food and beverages to keep volunteers refreshed. Stony Brook Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals, along with Lessing’s Hospitality Group and the Three Village Dads, also played vital roles in the event.

The Stony Brook Fire Department was on standby with emergency vehicles to assist if needed, while the Town of Brookhaven Highway Department facilitated the cleanup with the delivery of dumpsters.

WMHO extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the creek cleanup. A second cleanup is scheduled for Wednesday, August 28 at 12:30 pm. If you are interested in participating please call 631-751-2244 for more details.

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