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Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim

Garden of dreams grows at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School in Smithtown

by Press Release - June 2, 2024

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JST_3156 — Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim visits Mt. Pleasant Elementary School to see its new recyclable garden beds. Photo courtesy of Smithtown CSD

Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward Wehrheim said he was amazed at what’s growing at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School.

“I’m coming back when there are cucumbers to pick,” he told the students.

The Town of Smithtown, Reworld Waste and the Smithtown Central School District teamed up to create the new garden. Kathy Smerechniak, the STEM specialist at Mt. Pleasant, has been working with the student council to nurture plants from seeds under grow lights.

Students have been actively involved in the maintenance of plants and have spent time learning about the life cycle of plants in their science curriculum.

On May 22, Wehrheim, Town Public Information Officer Nicole Garguilo, and Reworld staff visited the garden to see the students’ thriving plants in the garden beds. The vegetables grown in this garden will be donated to the local food pantry.

The garden beds, made from recycled material, were donated by Reworld along with seeds, compost, solar-powered water timers, and an irrigation system. The Town of Smithtown will continue to support Smithtown schools to advocate for additional opportunities at other elementary schools to develop similar projects.

Town of Smithtown named Tree City USA by Arbor Day Foundation

by Press Release - April 4, 2024

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Smithtown Tree City USA — Trees bloom along Elm Avenue in Smithtown. Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways (DEW) and its tree planting program has secured the title of Tree City USA for the township for it’s 37th year. The notification comes as the team of Urban Foresters gear up for Arbor Day on April 26, with a ceremonial tree planting at the Smithtown Senior Citizens Center.

Additionally, the department will plant 150 new street trees around town for the spring season. The Urban Forestry team plans to plant a total of 500 trees by the end of 2024.

“This award validates the Town’s commitment and investment towards maintaining a healthy environment and robust urban forestry program. I want to commend Environmental Director, David Barnes, and Urban Foresters; Tom Colella and Bob Barget for going above and beyond to grow our programming to new heights,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

“It’s easy to take for granted, especially in Spring, Summer and Fall, just how fortunate we are to live in an emerald city, lush with healthy trees and native pollinators. The work that DEW has done to ensure a booming tree inventory and maintenance program will undoubtedly offer beauty, health and countless environmental benefits for decades to come,” he added.

The Town of Smithtown was first declared Tree City USA in 1986 by the National Arbor Day Foundation. Since then, the Town has taken great pride in managing a sustainable streetscape lined with trees. The Town of Smithtown has proudly maintained its reputation as Tree City USA for over 37 years, in addition to recent efforts to begin a street tree census, and to identify invasive species.

The Department of Environment and Waterways Urban Forestry team is currently working to finalize the grant agreement with the U.S Forest Service. Upon completion Urban Foresters will begin planting 2,000 trees over a four year period beginning with 350 this fall.

DEW has planted 2,350 trees since 2019 and will total 2500 by the end of this Spring. Since the street tree inventory project began in April 2020, 25,000 trees out of an estimated 35,000 street trees within the township have been cataloged. Preliminary data from the I-Tree 10/13/22 Report shows that the Town of Smithtown has a greater than 30% tree canopy cover.

Residents can request street tree plantings in front of their residence by contacting the Department of Environment and Waterways Urban Forestry team via email at [email protected] or by phone at 631-360-7514.

Smithtown’s annual menorah ceremony illuminates a message of resilience

by Raymond Janis - December 16, 2023

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By Raymond Janis

Public officials, faith leaders and residents gathered at Smithtown Town Hall Monday night, Dec. 11, braving low temperatures and frequent gusts of wind for a menorah lighting ceremony.

Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R) tied this year’s annual Hanukkah service to the ongoing geopolitical turmoil abroad and rising antisemitism in the United States.

“This year’s celebration is a commitment to our family, friends and neighbors,” he said. “It is a promise as we stand side by side to extinguish antisemitism as we light the night sky tonight, and we hope for peace both abroad and here at home.”

Rabbi Mendel Teldon of Chabad of Mid Suffolk presided over the prayer service. He thanked the strong show of community support during the ceremony, reflecting upon the example of the Maccabees in the face of religious persecution in Israel and America.

“In Smithtown, we are asked to step up to the plate,” the rabbi said. “Even when there’s opposition, even when there are values that oppose our own and people that will shout us down, a Macabee steps up to the plate.”

Following a blessing from the rabbi and a ceremonial lighting of the menorah, the attendees were greeted with latkes and donuts in the parking lot.

Callahan’s Beach reopens for Smithtown residents after reconstruction work

by Press Release - November 7, 2023

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Callahan Beach. Photo from Town of Smithtown

Callahan’s Beach in Fort Salonga has now reopened to Smithtown residents. The announcement was made in a press release on Nov. 7. Major infrastructure repairs were necessary after the seawall collapsed as a result of Tropical Depression Ida and a second storm which caused further damage shortly after. All new drainage infrastructure was installed, along with the total reconstruction of the seawall. The stairs have been rebuilt, with platforms in between stories. The bluff had to be completely rehabilitated and features rows of plantings. All new walkways, curbing, and asphalt have also been completely paved.

“Callahan’s Beach is absolutely stunning. People have been walking the beach and commenting all day about how gorgeous of a job the Town did. I’d like to personally thank the Parks Department, Jim Longworth, Pioneer Asphalt, Hayduk Engineering, and our Department of Environment and Waterways, who worked with DEC to get the permit process moving. This was a massive undertaking. One that was met with obstacles like supply chain issues, and red tape. However, the incredible amount of teamwork involved solidified a beautiful end result… one that Smithtown residents will enjoy for years to come,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

The facility will remain open to the public, while the Parks Department will begin constructing a new playground and pickle ball courts at Callahan’s Beach. Construction work on the playground and pickleball areas will be contained so that public access will not be interrupted.

Town of Smithtown receives 8.37 tons of paper during Oct. 21 shredding event

by Press Release - October 28, 2023

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On October 21, 368 residents delivered more than 8.37 tons (16,740 pounds) of paper documents to the Town of Smithtown Municipal Services Facility (MSF) during the second shredding event of 2023. A steady stream of residents arrived throughout the day to dispose of personal documents, which were then safely destroyed by the Data Shredding Service, Inc. “Shreddersaurus.” Despite the weather, MSF staff was able to accommodate the shredding event inside the recycling building. This bi-annual event is hosted free of charge for residents, courtesy of the Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways (DEW) and the Municipal Services Facility.

“Our team at the Municipal Services Facility always goes above and beyond for our residents. I want to commend them and the Department of Environment and Waterways on their quick thinking and for making arrangements to hold the shredding event indoors. Because of this, the town collection for paper shredding was not reduced in any way, and the community was pleased with the outstanding service,” said Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim

The Department of Environment and Waterways and Municipal Services Facility provided additional support staff to assist with moving vehicles along. Residents were pleased with the service provided by MSF and DEW staff, in addition to the two trucks from Data Shredding Services of Hauppauge. Participants enjoyed short to no wait times and the opportunity to dispose of their documents safely while also avoiding the potential risk of identity theft.

The October Shred Event was hosted at the Municipal Services Facility, located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Data Shredding Service, Inc. is a full-service confidential shredding service located on Corporate Drive in Hauppauge. The 2024 paper shredding events are scheduled for May 4th, 2024 and October 19th, 2024. For updates on upcoming free events hosted by the Town of Smithtown, download the Mobile App, which is available for free on Google Play and the App Store.

Town of Smithtown cuts ribbon on recently completed renovation work at Hoyt Farm

by Press Release - October 26, 2023

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The Town of Smithtown was joined by local community leaders, the Greater Commack Chamber of Commerce, State and local officials to cut a ribbon on completed renovations at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve located at 200 New Highway in Commack. Upgrades to the grounds included the installation of brand new bocce courts, pavilions, and picnic area. Renovations were also made to the playground, bathrooms, all new surfacing, concrete walkways, drainage, and retaining wall. The makeover compliments the popularity of the grounds where concerts are hosted and large scale events take place, for the community throughout the calendar year.

“There’s been quite a bit of renovations here at our flagship park. This makeover compliments the popularity of Hoyt Farm, where concerts are hosted and large scale events take place, for the community throughout the calendar year… And it really symbolizes what the Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve is all about. Community, collaboration and celebration. It is an oasis for the whole community to enjoy. And that’s why we invested in these wonderful renovations,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Earlier this year, the Town of Smithtown Planning Department, and the team at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve coordinated with Cosentino Realty Group on the total restoration and installation of the water tower. The project was donated to the Town of Smithtown by Cosentino Realty Group in memory of local resident, Vietnam veteran and builder, John E. Baker. At the beginning of the Summer, Hoyt family members; Tom and Mitch Stokes drove from Massachusetts towing a utility trailer which contained large fieldstones, embedded with bronze plaques to pay homage to their Mother and Aunt. The team at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, also upgraded the butterfly garden areas to be deer-proof over the Summer. The project was spearheaded by Dominick Guadio who raised the walls and added an array of native plants which is nicely accented by the flowing waterfall.

A Brief History of the Hoyt Family Farm: The Town of Smithtown purchased the property in 1965 from Maria Hoyt, and the 133 acres of land developed into Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve. Today, the Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve Team, led by Jeff Gumin works to keep the Hoyt Family legacy alive and well with various educational programs, events, concerts, and historic tours of the Hoyt House and grounds. Educational programs range from marine, wildlife and indigenous plant life on Long island, to Native American artifacts, and maple sugaring classes. Additionally, the preserve boasts beautiful nature trails, pollinator gardens, mature oak forests, pastures, ponds, the picnic grounds, playground & pavilion and is home to historic buildings and monuments such as two World War I cannons, formerly located at Town Hall, the Hoyt House and the Water Tower, which was recently restored by the Cosentino Family in honor local Veteran, Smithtown Resident and Builder; John Baker.

Never Forget: Town of Smithtown and chamber host 9/11 memorial service

by Raymond Janis - September 15, 2023

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By Raymond Janis

The Town of Smithtown in conjunction with the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce conducted the annual 9/11 memorial service Monday afternoon at 4 p.m., Sept. 11, honoring the lives lost and the sacrifices made during the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.

Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R) presided over the service, which was well attended by members of the Town Board, New York State officials, the clergy, U.S. service members, local business leaders and residents.

Wehrheim said the annual ceremony fulfills “a promise made 22 years ago” to honor the victims, keeping their memories alive within the community.

“We pay respects to our friends and neighbors and grieve their loss together,” he said. “But we also reclaim a spirit of unity, faith and resilience that served us as a light of hope through our darkest of hours.”

The service included a name-reading ceremony of the 53 Smithtown residents who were killed during the attacks, ending with attendees placing roses upon the 9/11 memorial fountain.

Town of Smithtown dedicates Lanieri Park to Kings Park community

by Press Release - September 9, 2023

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Local officials, community leaders, and a packed park filled with Lanieri family members and neighbors came together over Labor Day weekend to dedicate the playground & park at the former site of St Anthony’s School (aka San Remo Park & Playground) in memory of “John John” Lanieri. On Saturday, September 2nd, 2023 Supervisor Ed Wehrheim led the dedication ceremony together with Anthony Lanieri, with support from fellow local officials, members of the Parks Department & Public Safety. Approximately fifty members of the Lanieri family, the Vita family, and neighbors of the Kings Park community cut a ribbon commemorating the dedication in front of the new park sign.

“Kings Park is a special place to call home. We’re a very proud community, with a true appreciation for our history and giving back to our hometown. The Lanieri family embodies these roots. Throughout all five generations, many have worked in public service, at the former hospital, or right here in local government. They’ve served our Country, volunteered as first responders, and contributed to the enrichment of our future generations. That tradition of service is at the very core of what makes this community so special. It’s a privilege to commemorate this special occasion here today… which I hope and believe will inspire future generations to follow in your footsteps.,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

The Lanieri Family has a long history in the hamlet of Kings Park, with almost a century, and five generations of calling the Township of Smithtown home. In 1980, John Lanieri, fondly remembered as “John John,” was struck and tragically killed by a drunk driver at the tender age of fifteen, in front of the old St. Anthony’s School. Years later, an attempt to rename the street “John’s Way” was never brought to fruition, when the old St. Anthony School was torn down, and eventually constructed into a residential development. The request to rededicate the park where John and his siblings grew up playing was formalized by Anthony Lanieri earlier this year. In the request, Lanieri referenced his family members who had passed away before their time and how he dreamed of a place where the youngest generation; his first grandson, would come to play and learn all about his legacy.

“It’s a great tribute to all of the Lanieri generations, past, present and future, for this to be happening today. Obviously we wouldn’t all be here today if not for my brother John. And I think he’s with us today, together with my son, and my father, smiling in celebration on this gorgeous sunny day,” added Anthony Lanieri.

Arrangements and logistics to facilitate the park rededication were orchestrated by Mitch Crowley, Director of Traffic Safety, Joe Arico, Director of Parks, Buildings & Grounds, Tom Heester, Assistant Town Park Maintenance Director, and Michael Grosskopf, Project Manager.

Softball championship tournament kicks off in Smithtown

by Steven Zaitz - July 19, 2023

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Home team 12U Bulls lose in semifinals, but event filled with joy and excitement

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By Steve Zaitz

[email protected]

Smithtown became the epicenter of New York softball last Thursday, July 13, as teams from all over the Empire State descended upon the hamlet to fight for the state title — with the winner earning a trip to the Little League World Series East Region tournament.

For the 12 and Under home team Bulls, it was not to be.

St. James-Smithtown was knocked out in the semifinals by the Mid-Island All Stars from Staten Island and their phenomenal pitcher Gianna DiMaso, who tossed a complete game shutout. The Bulls had won four games over the course of the weekend to make it to the final four, but DiMaso was just too tough, allowing only four Bull base runners in six innings.

Bulls Pitcher Isabella Russo, who led this same group of girls to the 11U championship in 2022, finished the tournament with a 3-0 record on the mound and pitched four scoreless innings against Staten Island in the semis. But single runs in the first two innings against Smithtown starter Julia Roman was two too many against the dominating DiMaso.

Despite the setback for the Smithtown side, the tournament has been a tremendous and entertaining success for everyone involved. It kicked off last Thursday with a festive celebration at Gaynor Park in St. James.

Town Supervisor Edward Wehrheim (R) and town Councilman Tom Lohmann (R) threw out nearly simultaneous first pitches. League President Richard Tomitz with fellow league board member Peter Russo, both of whom coach and have daughters on the 12U team, warmly welcomed the players and their families to Smithtown.

Caravans of SUVs and minivans made the trek all the way from places like Orchard Park near Buffalo, Saugerties in Ulster County, also Fayetteville-Manlius and Chittenango, both suburbs of Syracuse. The visitors spent the better part of a week here. Harrison Little League in Westchester, and the eventual champion Massapequa who beat Staten Island in the final game, also participated.

Tomitz, Russo and other league organizers made sure all the players and their families were entertained even when there weren’t any games on the schedule. Saturday night featured a skills competition at Veterans Memorial Park in St. James. Players from all teams were invited to show off their speed, throwing accuracy and, of course, home run hitting prowess. Lefty sluggers Brooke Hanson and Isabella Russo of Smithtown took first and second place in the home run contest.

Skills Night was a jovial affair with the elder Russo keeping the crowd peppy as master of the microphone. Players from different teams shared laughter and selfies until it was time for Movie Night on the Lawn. The feature presentation had to be the 1992 film “A League of Their Own.”

Last Sunday’s atrocious weather wreaked havoc on the scheduled slate of games, and on Monday and Tuesday, eleven games were played in less than 24 hours.

As Staten Island was beating St. James-Smithtown, Massapequa International was crushing Fayetteville-Manlius, 15-0. A high noon, winner-take-all showdown saw Massapequa score a walk-off 2-1 win and punch their ticket to the regionals, to be played in Bristol, Connecticut.

Teachers Federal Credit Union opens new location in Smithtown

by Press Release - May 19, 2023

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Teachers Federal Credit Union held a ribbon cutting ceremony at its new Smithtown location at 47 Route 111 in Smithtown on May 3. Credit union executives and its members, representatives from the Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce and the St. James Chamber of Commerce, as well as government officials attended the grand opening.

Founded more than 70 years ago, it has over 440,000 members across the country. At the opening, they presented a donation of $5,000 to Beacon House, which provides homes and services for veterans.

“I wish the members of Teachers the best of luck in their new location and appreciate all that they do for the community. They are a real asset for the town,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.

Pictured at the ribbon cutting from left are: Smithtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim; Smithtown Councilman Tom Lohmann; Teachers Chairman Timothy M. Southerton; Teachers President & CEO Brad C. Calhoun; Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta; and Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puelo.

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