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Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin

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Legislator Sanin at the 2025 Inauguration of the Suffolk County Legislature

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin has been elected as Whip for the Democratic Caucus of the Suffolk County Legislature. The announcement was made in a press release on Jan. 30. “This leadership role comes just one year after Legislator Sanin’s election to the Legislature, reflecting her hard work, dedication, and effectiveness in delivering results for Suffolk County residents,” read the release.

As Democratic Whip, Legislator Sanin will play a critical role in advancing the caucus’s legislative agenda and building consensus on key issues. Her leadership will focus on continuing her efforts to reduce costs and make Suffolk County more affordable for working families, enhance public safety, and create good-paying jobs to support families across the county.

“It is an honor to be selected by my colleagues to serve as the Democratic Whip,” said Legislator Sanin. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made in my first year on the Legislature, and I look forward to working closely with our caucus to build a safer, stronger, and more affordable Suffolk County for all. This new role allows me to amplify the voices of our communities and to continue advocating for the policies that matter most to our residents.”

Democratic Caucus Leader, Legislator Jason Richberg, praised Sanin’s leadership and tireless commitment to her constituents: “Rebecca has demonstrated incredible dedication and vision since joining the Legislature. Her ability to connect with residents, her thoughtful approach to policymaking, and her passion for public service make her the perfect choice for Democratic Whip. I am confident she will continue to make a significant impact in this role.”

Suffolk County Democratic Committee Chairman Rich Schaffer also expressed his support: “Legislator Sanin has proven herself to be a dynamic and effective leader in just her first year on the Legislature. Her election as Democratic Whip is a testament to her hard work, her ability to bring people together, and her commitment to improving the lives of Suffolk County families. I look forward to seeing her continued success in this new leadership role.”

“Legislator Sanin has built a reputation as a fierce advocate for her district and a champion for policies that strengthen Suffolk County’s economy, enhance public safety, and improve quality of life for all residents. As the Democratic Whip, she will work closely with her colleagues to advance initiatives that address the county’s most pressing challenges and create new opportunities for families across Suffolk,” read the release.

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Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin drops off clothing donations at Career Couture.

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin has announced the conclusion of a highly successful clothing drive to give Suffolk County residents the tools to get good-paying jobs.  Legislator Sanin spearheaded a community clothing drive to benefit the Suffolk County Department of Labor’s Career Couture Boutique in Hauppauge. This initiative, aimed at providing free professional attire to residents in need, collected an impressive total of over 2,000 individual clothing items thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the 16th Legislative District community.

“Career Couture provides residents with the tools to make a strong first impression during job interviews, empowering them on their path to success,” said Legislator Sanin. “This drive showcased the strength and compassion of our community, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who donated and supported this effort.”

The success of this community-driven initiative was made possible through partnerships with local organizations. Donation drop-off boxes were hosted by the Elwood, Commack, and South Huntington Public Libraries, whose efforts helped ensure widespread participation.

Joanne Albano, Assistant Director of the Commack Public Library, shared her enthusiasm for the collaboration: “The Commack Public Library was proud to participate as a drop-off point for Legislator Sanin’s extremely successful Career Couture Boutique clothing drive. We are always happy to partner with Legislator Sanin and look forward to many more successful events and partnerships.”

Andrew Salomon, Library Director of the Elwood Public Library, echoed these sentiments: “Thank you to Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin and her team for organizing this wonderful clothing drive. Thanks also to the Elwood Public Library staff for helping to implement the drive and the Suffolk County Department of Labor for operating the Career Couture Boutique. Most importantly, thanks to everyone who donated, particularly those within the Elwood Public Library community, for their exceptional generosity. We are so grateful for the opportunity to partner with our local elected officials, neighboring libraries, and local government entities to help better our community.”

Janet Scherer, Director of the South Huntington Public Library, added: “We extend our gratitude to Legislator Sanin for collaborating with the South Huntington Public Library on this impactful clothing drive. Thanks to the generosity of our community, numerous workplace-appropriate items were donated. This initiative is sure to empower many Suffolk County residents, boosting their confidence as they embark on their professional journeys.”

The Career Couture Boutique, operated by the Suffolk County Department of Labor, provides free professional clothing to Suffolk County residents, helping them make great first impressions at job interviews and gain confidence in their career pursuits. This effort is particularly significant as Long Island’s labor market continues to evolve. According to the New York State Department of Labor, Long Island’s private sector added 16,000 jobs over the past year, with significant growth in education and health services (+12,300 jobs) and leisure and hospitality (+6,600 jobs). By offering professional attire to job seekers, the clothing drive is directly supporting residents as they prepare to enter these growing industries and strengthen their career prospects.

Legislator Sanin extends her heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, donated, and supported the drive. This effort reflects the shared commitment of Suffolk County residents to supporting one another and strengthening the community.

For more information about the Career Couture Boutique or other community initiatives, please contact Legislator Sanin’s office at 631-854-5100.

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Scene from the Nonprofit Volunteer Opportunities Fair. Courtesy Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin’s office
Scene from the Nonprofit Volunteer Opportunities Fair. Courtesy Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin’s office

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin (D-Huntington Station,) in partnership with Walt Whitman High School, hosted the first annual Nonprofit Volunteer Opportunities Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 20, bringing together more than 20 nonprofit organizations — including Spirit of Huntington Art Center, Splashes of Hope and Island Harvest — and over 1,000 high school students eager to give back to their community.

Students in grades 9-12 had the opportunity to explore volunteer opportunities with nonprofits spanning diverse causes, from food pantries to environmental advocacy groups. The participating organizations collectively received more than 1,000 volunteer signups, reflecting the enthusiasm and civic spirit of Suffolk County’s youth.

“Bringing together these incredible organizations and the students at Walt Whitman High School is an important step in fostering a culture of service and engagement,” said Sanin, who spearheaded the event. “I’m proud to have organized this fair as a way to connect our future leaders with the nonprofits that do such vital work in our communities. Events like this demonstrate the power of collaboration and the strength of our shared commitment to giving back.”

The fair was held in celebration of Nonprofit Volunteer Appreciation Month, which was officially designated by Legislator Sanin’s legislation, Intro. Res. No. 1463-2024. Passed unanimously by the Suffolk County Legislature on June 25, 2024, the resolution recognizes the indispensable role nonprofits and volunteers play in strengthening Suffolk County.

“This event is a perfect example of what Nonprofit Volunteer Appreciation Month is all about — shining a light on the essential work of nonprofits and inspiring others to get involved,” Sanin added. “I’m grateful to Walt Whitman High School for their partnership and to the organizations who joined us to make this fair such a success.”

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Legislators Sanin (front-right), Bontempi (back-right), and Donnelly (front-left) with the students and coaches of the Walt Whitman High School Boys Varsity Soccer team
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Legislators Sanin (front-right), Bontempi (back-right), and Donnelly (front-left) with the students and coaches of the Walt Whitman High School Boys Varsity Soccer team
Legislator Sanin (at podium) addresses WWHS Boys Varsity Soccer team

At the Nov. 26 General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin, joined by her colleagues Legislators Stephanie Bontempi and Thomas Donnelly, proudly honored the Walt Whitman High School Varsity Boys Soccer Team in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

The team was recognized for their outstanding accomplishments during the 2024 season, including winning the Suffolk County AAA Championship and the Long Island Class AAA Championship and advancing to the semifinals of the New York State AAA Class Tournament. Their remarkable performance has solidified their place as one of the best teams in both Long Island and New York State.

“The Walt Whitman Varsity Boys Soccer Team exemplifies the very best of Suffolk County’s student-athletes,” said Legislator Sanin. “This season was a testament to their skill, teamwork, and dedication, and they’ve inspired our community with their incredible achievements on and off the field. We are so proud of each of you.”

Legislator Sanin also commended the team’s coaching staff, including Head Coach John DiGiacomo and assistant coaches Brian Karcz, Robert Tedesco, Nicholas Costa, and Brayan Portillo, for their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.

The celebration highlighted the team’s ability to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and collaboration throughout the season, making them a source of pride for the entire Suffolk County community.

“This recognition is about more than championships,” Legislator Sanin added. “It’s about celebrating a group of young leaders who embody what it means to work hard, support one another, and strive for greatness. Congratulations on an unforgettable season!”

Legislators Sanin, Donnelly, and Bontempi presented a proclamation to the Walt Whitman Varsity Boys Soccer Team to commemorate their achievements and acknowledge their contributions to the community.

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Legislator Sanin with District 16 Veteran of the Year Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia

At the November General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia of the National Guard as the 16th Legislative District’s 2024 “Veteran of the Year.” The ceremony, held on November 26 in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building, celebrated veterans from each of Suffolk County’s 18 legislative districts.

“Staff Sergeant Santiago Mejia represents the best of Suffolk County’s veteran community,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “His 16 years of dedicated service, not only to our nation but also to his fellow soldiers, exemplify leadership, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to service that strengthens our communities and our country.”

Staff Sergeant Mejia’s contributions are profound. As an Equal Opportunity officer in the Army National Guard, he has provided critical support to soldiers in need, including instances where his actions have saved lives. His advocacy extends to fostering opportunities for others, as evidenced by his tireless work assisting 11 fellow soldiers in achieving U.S. citizenship. Overcoming language barriers and navigating complex processes, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s mentorship made their dreams of citizenship a reality.

Beyond his official duties, Staff Sergeant Mejia’s impact has been recognized with the President’s Bronze Volunteer Service Award for his 100 hours of overseas service. His talents as a photographer have also brought comfort to soldiers, capturing and preserving moments that connect them to their loved ones back home.

“Staff Sergeant Mejia’s actions inspire all of us to lead with compassion and dedication,” said Legislator Sanin. “His service not only reflects the highest standards of military honor but also enriches the lives of everyone he touches. Suffolk County is privileged to count him among our own.”

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State, with one of the largest veteran communities in the nation. The annual “Veteran of the Year” recognition underscores the county’s commitment to honoring those who have served and sacrificed to protect freedom and liberty.

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Front row, from left, ECLI Co-Founder and Program Development & Education Director Feride Castillo; ECLI Co-Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Hernandez (with scissors); Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr; and Legislator Rebecca Sanin. Photo courtesy of ECLI-VIBES
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Front row, from left, ECLI Co-Founder and Program Development & Education Director Feride Castillo; ECLI Co-Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Hernandez (with scissors); Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr; and Legislator Rebecca Sanin. Photo courtesy of ECLI-VIBES
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.
ECLI-VIBES ribbon cutting on Oct. 24.

Empowerment Collaborative of Long Island and Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk (ECLI-VIBES), a Long Island nonprofit organization that helps survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, has taken over the building that once belonged to Flushing Bank at 1707 Veterans Memorial Highway in Islandia. 

This marks a significant milestone in expanding their impact and support of victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The momentous occasion was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the new facilities and light bites on Oct. 24.

“We are in a bigger space now, and it feels unreal how far we have come in the physical and organizational growth ,” said Co-Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Hernandez, “My co-founders and I, who built this organization from the ground up, never could have imagined how big it would become and the impact it would have on Suffolk County and beyond.”

The evening’s guests were able to learn more about the services ECLI VIBES provides, such as its fully stocked food and essentials pantry and counseling services. The move to the new facility left no need unmet, providing dedicated spaces for everything from client services to a centrally located water feature where staff can find reprieve from the heaviness of the work. Flushing Bank sold the property with all of the furnishings, allowing ECLI VIBES to be up and running in the new space quickly with minimal construction and labor.

“We know the challenges our community is facing and are showing individuals who can help us with our cause what we are doing to not only help our survivors but how we can stop domestic violence in our community,” said Co-Founder and Program Development & Education Director Feride Castillo. “We believe that with the continued support and involvement of our community, we can make a significant impact.”

Many Suffolk County community leaders and legislators were in attendance, including Legislator Chad Lennon and Legislator Rebecca Sanin, Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. and Detective Sergeant James Murphy and his team from the Suffolk County Police Department’s Anti Trafficking Unit. Organizations that were represented include Long Island Cares and Long Island Harvest.

To learn more about ECLI VIBES and how you can get involved, please visit www.eclivibes.org.

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Legislator Sanin with the owner of Zaro's Café, Edmund Zarou

At the October General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly recognized Zaro’s Café, a beloved Greek-Italian family-owned and operated eatery in the heart of Huntington Station, as the 16th Legislative District’s “Small Business Month” honoree.

Established by the Suffolk County Legislature in 2023, “Small Business Month” provides a dedicated time to recognize the critical contributions of Suffolk County’s small business entrepreneurs and to further encourage awareness and appreciation.

For over 30 years, Zaro’s Café has been a cornerstone of the Huntington Station community, providing not only delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine but also demonstrating a deep commitment to the well-being of Suffolk County residents. The leadership of owner Edmund Zarou and his team has been instrumental in setting an example of resilience, innovation, and compassion, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the pandemic gripped the nation in 2020, Zaro’s Café saw an urgent need in the community for protective face shields for frontline healthcare workers. In response, Zaro’s transformed its dining room into a production space and began manufacturing nearly 1,000 face shields using 3D printers. Over two months, the café distributed these vital supplies to local fire departments, nursing homes, and EMS teams.

“Zaro’s Café is more than just a place to enjoy incredible food—it’s a symbol of what makes our community strong. From their longstanding commitment to providing great service to their selfless efforts during the pandemic, Zaro’s Café embodies the spirit of giving back and stepping up when it matters most. I’m honored to recognize their exceptional leadership, resilience, and dedication to Suffolk County,” said Legislator Sanin.

To this day, Zaro’s Café continues to serve as a community gathering place, offering a warm and welcoming environment for all. This recognition is a testament to the lasting contributions Edmund Zarou and his team have made to Huntington Station, and Legislator Sanin is proud to honor them as District 16’s ‘Small Business Month” honoree.

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Suffolk County Legislators (left to right) McCaffrey, Donnelly, Kennedy, Mazzarella, Sanin, and Bontempi stand the winners of Suffolk County’s prestigious Distinguished Youth Award

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin recently recognized the exceptional young individuals of District 16 who have devoted their summer to community service, leadership, and personal growth. These remarkable students have been awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze honors through Suffolk County’s prestigious Distinguished Youth Award program.

The award recipients have exemplified extraordinary commitment and excellence in their efforts to create a positive impact in the community. Through their hard work, determination, and passion for service, these young leaders have set an inspiring example for their peers.

Gold Award Recipient:

Emma Lesly Francis

Silver Award Recipients:

Grace Sullivan and Logan Seltzer

Bronze Award Recipient:

Andrew Badalamenti

Legislator Sanin praised the awardees, stating, “These students represent the very best of our community. Their dedication to service and leadership is not only commendable but also a beacon of hope for the future. I am incredibly proud of their achievements and the positive difference they have made.”

In addition to honoring this year’s awardees, Legislator Sanin is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2024-2025 Distinguished Youth Award program. Young people aged 13-18 are encouraged to apply and seize this unique opportunity to grow, lead, and make a difference.

The Distinguished Youth Award program provides a platform for young individuals to develop their skills, engage with their communities, and be recognized for their contributions. Participants can earn Gold, Silver, or Bronze awards by completing a series of challenges and activities focused on personal growth, leadership, and community service.

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