CLOSE
Tags Posts tagged with "Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin"

Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin

by -
0 692
1 of 2
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.”

by -
0 544
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
1 of 2
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.

by -
0 644
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.

by -
0 10476
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
1 of 9
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.

by -
0 670
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.

by -
0 649
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.

Prev12Page 2 of 2
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©