Tags Posts tagged with "Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker"

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk staff and volunteers are joined by government leaders and National Grid officials in front of the new Suffolk County Farm Visitor Center and interactive walkway. Photo from Suffolk County Farm

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk (CCE Suffolk) held the unveiling of a new, interactive walkway at its 272-acre Suffolk County Farmand Educational Center in Yaphank as well as the announcement of a new visitor center. The walkway was funded by National Grid.

Designed with multiple, life-size elements designed for visitor engagement, the walkway features a series of stations that highlight CCE Suffolk’s wide range of program areas. Among the disciplines showcased are agriculture, marine science, gardening and horticulture, camping, life skills education, and family wellness.

The Suffolk County Farm is a working farm that offers hands-on, research-based learning within a year-round, educational environment. It hosts 100,000 visitors each year, 20,000 of whom are schoolchildren.

The farm is also home to unique educational programs for children ranging from pre-K to 12th grade, summer day camps, a nature-based preschool, and special events, among many other offerings. Its 1871 Haybarn is listed on the National Historic Registry.

According to a 2019 report by the state comptroller’s office, Suffolk County ranked fourth among the state’s 62 counties in agricultural sales. The county’s 560 farms generated $225.6 million in sales.

State Senator Dean Murray, State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, and County Legislators James Mazzarella, Sarah Anker, Nick Caracappa, Sam Gonzalez, and Jason Richberg were among the elected officials participating in today’s event.

“Thanks to National Grid, the Suffolk County Farm now features a dynamic, new walkway providing an immersive experience that captures the essence of CCE’s multifaceted programs,” said Vanessa Lockel, Executive Director of CCE Suffolk. “The visitor center and walkway will together help the farm carry on its tradition of community learning that dates back more than a century.”

“We’re proud to partner with CCE Suffolk to create an interactive walkway that’s designed to educate and inspire visitors to the Suffolk County Farm,” said Kathy Wisnewski, Director of Customer and Community Engagement at National Grid. “Community learning is deeply aligned with National Grid’s values, and we’re delighted to contribute to an initiative that broadens public understanding of such critical subjects as sustainability, history, and science.”

“The new walkway is far more than an entry point into this remarkable farm,” said Sonia Spar, President of the CCE Suffolk Board of Directors. “It’s truly an educational journey in itself. Visitors will enjoy a holistic experience that enables them to appreciate the extraordinary breadth of CCE Suffolk’s offerings in a personal way.”

“While I regret not being able to attend today’s ceremony in person, I support the innovative initiatives undertaken by the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk at the Suffolk County Farm,” commented Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “The interactive walkway emphasizes that the farm is not just a place to visit; it’s a learning hub that exemplifies the rich agricultural heritage and forward-thinking sustainability efforts of our county.”

“Visited by tens of thousands of people each year, the Suffolk County Farm is one of Suffolk’s true gems,” said County Legislator James Mazzarella. “National Grid deserves praise for underwriting a beautiful new walkway that stands as a testament to CCE Suffolk‘s ambitious program of community outreach and education.”

“The Suffolk County Farm is emblematic of the leadership role that this county plays in New York State’s agricultural sector,” said Rob Carpenter, Director of the Long Island Farm Bureau. “Its far-reaching educational agenda deepens Long Islanders’ understanding of the world of agriculture. We applaud CCE Suffolk and National Grid for the tremendous work they’ve done here.”

From left, Store Manager Emely Acosta, 7th Precinct Inspector William Doherty, Legislator Sarah Anker, and District Manager Rachel Gregory at the ribbon cutting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Leg. Anker's office

On July 27th, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker attended the ALDI grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for their new location in Rocky Point in the Crossroads Plaza East at 75 Route 25A.

“The Rocky Point ALDI will be a tremendous addition to our community,” said Legislator Anker. “Their commitment to fresh produce and affordable pricing means that we will have more options for local, healthy food choices.”

Legislator Anker greeted the crowd before the grand opening, thanking them for attending and coming out for the ceremony. She also assisted the Store Manager Emely Acosta with the ribbon cutting. After, Legislator Anker and her Chief of Staff Dorothy Cavalier greeted patrons in the store and spoke with District Manager Rachel Gregory about the company’s commitment to sustainability and affordability. This is the 13th ALDI store on Long Island.

“ALDI-exclusive brands make up 90% of what we offer, many of them being award winners! We removed certified synthetic colors from all of our exclusive brand food products opting to use plant-based color ingredients, such as beet juice, paprika and turmeric,” said Chris Daniels, Division Vice President. “These reformulated products are the exact same high-quality and taste shoppers expect from ALDI-exclusive brands. We look forward to providing Rocky Point shoppers with unmatched value on all of our quality food and products.”

Mike DelGuidice will cover classic hits from Billy Joel on Aug. 28. File photo by Greg Catalano/2019

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker has announced the Suffolk County Summer Concert and Movie Night Series in collaboration with community organizations including North Shore Youth Council, the Longwood Alliance, the Middle Island Civic Association, the Middle Island Fire Department, the Coram Civic Association, the Coram Fire Department, and the Ridge Civic Association.

“The summer community concerts have been instrumental in providing local performances with free-admission concerts across the district,” said Legislator Sarah Anker. “I encourage our residents to attend these concerts that provide a wonderful entertainment venue for all ages. A warm thank you to the community organizations for their partnerships with my office.”

Concert Information:

1. North Shore Youth Council Community Movie Night

Showing: ‘Luca’

Date: Friday, July 7th

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Location: North Shore Heritage Park 633 Mount Sinai Coram Rd, Mount Sinai

 

2. Middle Island Concert with Longwood Alliance, Middle Island Civic Association and the

Middle Island Fire Department

Featuring: That 70’s Band (Fireworks after show)

Date: Saturday, July 8th

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Old Kmart Parcel Across from Artist Lake, Middle Island

 

3. Middle Island Concert with Longwood Alliance, Middle Island Civic Association and the

Middle Island Fire Department

Featuring: 45RPM (Firework rain date)

Date: Sunday, July 9th

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Old Kmart Parcel Across from Artist Lake, Middle Island

 

4. Ridge Civic Association Concert

Featuring: Tradewinds

Date: Saturday, July 15th (rain date July 16th)

Time: 4 p.m.

Location: Longwood Estate, Longwood Rd, Ridge

 

5. North Shore Youth Council Community Movie Night

Showing: ‘Tangled’

Date: Friday,  July 21st

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Location: North Shore Heritage Park 633 Mount Sinai Coram Rd, Mount Sinai

 

6. North Shore Youth Council Community Concert

Featuring: BonJourney

Date: Friday, August 4th

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: North Shore Heritage Park 633 Mount Sinai Coram Rd, Mount Sinai

 

7. Middle Island Concert with Longwood Alliance, Middle Island Civic Association and the Middle Island Fire DepartmentFeaturing: Penny Lane

Date: Saturday, August 19th

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Middle Island Fire Dept. 31 Arnold Dr, Middle Island

 

8. Coram Civic Association and the Coram Fire Department Concert

Featuring: Southbound

Date: Saturday, August 26th (rain date August 28th)

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Middle Island Fire Department, 31 Arnold Dr, Middle Island

 

9. North Shore Youth Council Concert

Featuring: Mike DelGuidice on tour with Billy Joel

Date: Monday, August 28th (rain date August 30th)

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: St. Anthony’s of Padua Church 614 NY-25A, Rocky Point

 

There is no charge for admission to the concerts. For more information about the concerts, please contact the office of Legislator Sarah Anker’s office at (631) 854-1600.

Dr. Joseph Rella at his last graduation ceremony at Comsewogue High School in 2019. File photo by Kyle Barr/TBR News Media

The Suffolk County Legislature has approved naming Port Jefferson Station’s Terryville Greenbelt in honor of former Comsewogue School District Superintendent Dr. Joseph Rella. The initiative was led by Legislator Kara Hahn, in honor of the highly regarded teacher, principal and administrator who passed away in February 2020 at the age of 69. 

 Described as “one of the most courageous and inspiring educators ever,” Dr. Rella began his 25-year career with the Comsewogue School District as a part-time music teacher at John F. Kennedy Middle School. He also served as principal of Comsewogue High School prior to becoming school superintendent in 2011, a post he held until his retirement from the district in 2019. 

“Dr. Rella was absolutely beloved in the community. Every child in the Comsewogue School District knew he cared about them, knew he believed in them and knew he loved them,” said Legislator Hahn. “His impact upon the district, his students’ lives and this community have been profound and through this tribute we honor the lasting legacy of his actions.” 

Located within the Central Suffolk Special Groundwater Protection Area, the Terryville Greenbelt is situated between Route 112 and North Bicycle Path in Port Jefferson Station.  The greenbelt area is over 75 total acres that Suffolk County and the Town of Brookhaven have each pursued preserving through individual and joint purchases of open space parcels. 

“The Terryville Greenbelt adjoins Comsewogue High School so forever linking this preserved land to the school where Dr. Rella served and to the greater community seems fitting,” said Leg. Hahn.

The bill, which has been co-sponsored by neighboring Legislators Sarah Anker and Nick Caracappa, now goes to County Executive Steve Bellone for his signature. It is anticipated that once the naming becomes official, a ceremony will be held in recognition of Dr. Rella’s contribution to education and to his community. 

“Dr. Rella cultivated a community where people came together and respected one another in all of their differences. His mission was we are one, working together to be the best we can be. His focus was always to ensure the best for the students and their families” said Joseph Coniglione, Comsewogue SD Assistant Superintendent for Staff and Student Services. 

“He created a culture of kindness throughout his career and having a wellness space dedicated in his memory is a tremendous honor for his family, our schools and this community.”

The Miller Place community twinkled brightly on Saturday, Dec. 10, during a tree lighting ceremony held at the Aliano Shopping Center on Route 25A.

The event was well attended by community members, public officials and even pets. Fun and joy went all around. A tall, multicolored tree served as the centerpiece for the evening. 

Suffolk County Legislators Kara Hahn and Sarah Anker present proclamations to Day Haven Adult Day Services’ Liz Fiodralisi and Elizabeth LeDonne. Photo from Leg. Anker's office

At a recent general meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Sarah Anker and Legislator Kara Hahn presented proclamations to Day Haven Adult Day Services and their employees Liz Fiordalisi and Elizabeth LeDonne in recognition of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. 

For over 35 years, Day Haven Adult Day Services has provided Suffolk County’s seniors with therapeutic and engaging programs, specialized services for individuals with Alzheimer’s, intergenerational programs, and emergency respite care and support services for caregivers. As Site Supervisors for the Port Jefferson and Ronkonkoma Day Haven locations, Liz Fiordalisi and Elizabeth LeDonne have supervised, coordinated and facilitated various programs, which have assisted in preserving the physical and cognitive health of Day Haven’s program participants.

“It is my honor to recognize Day Haven Adult Day Services, Liz Fiordalisi and Elizabeth LeDonne,” said Legislator Anker. “Both of these women have had a positive impact on our senior communities and families that are affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementia. Thank you for everything that you do to support our community’s seniors, their families and their caregivers.”

“As someone whose family was directly impacted by both Alzheimer’s and Dementia, I am so grateful for individuals like Elizabeth and Liz,” said Legislator Hahn. “These caring women have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the lives of their participants. The work they do not only helps the individuals living with memory loss, it also helps the families by ensuring that their loved ones are in safe nurturing environment. For the families whose loved ones are in your program, the knowledge that we can count on you to provide the best care, is so comforting.”

Liz Fiordalisi has over 15 years of experience working in the field of senior care, including in assisted living, senior center and social adult day care settings.

In addition, Liz is an active community volunteer and currently holds the position of Corresponding Secretary for the Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society. Elizabeth LeDonne, also has years of experience working in the field of senior care, including as a Care Coordinator for a home companion agency, and as a Recreation Director, and later Director of a Memory Care Unit for an assisted living facility. 

While working at Day Haven Adult Day Services, Liz Fiordalisi and Elizabeth LeDonne have prioritized creating a nurturing environment to enrich the daily lives of Day Haven’s program participants.

To learn more about Day Haven Adult Day Services and their available programs for seniors, families and caregivers, visit www.dayhaven.org. 

'Below the Ocean'
First 25 participants receive free copy of book

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker has self-published a children’s picture book on ocean pollution titled Below the Ocean: Keeping Our Sea Friends Safe. The book targets young children ages 2-10 years and provides an engaging story about a young seal and her encounters with ocean pollution.

Leg. Sarah Anker

“Having raised 3 children and knowing how important it is to teach our kids about respecting and maintaining our environment, I decided to take the plunge into writing this book, as well as additional children’s environmental books. Long before I ran for public office, I was involved in beach cleanups, advocating for clean water and air, recycling our garbage and preserving open space. We all need to do more, and I hope this book will inspire children and their parents to be environmental superheroes,” said Anker.

The illustrator, Lily Liu, is an award-winning artist who has provided illustrations for several top-selling children’s books. The vibrant colors and adorable characters capture your attention as the main character, Sophia the Seal, encounters ocean garbage and learns how it is affecting sea life and our ocean.

Plastics have been on Earth for close to 70 years and in that time, we have created over 9 billion tons of plastic waste. Most plastics are not recycled and end up as garbage in landfills and in our ocean. Below the Ocean not only informs young readers about ocean pollution, but it also provides insight on what they can do to keep our ocean clean and safe and encourages them to be a Sea Hero. The book is available online at www.amazon.com. For more information go to www.Ankerbooks.com.

—————————————————-

Families with young children are invited to join Leg. Anker for a book launch at Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station on Thursday, July 28 at 2:30 p.m. The educational presentation will feature a reading of the book, a Q&A, book signing and crafts. The first 25 books will be given out for free. To register for this event, call the library at 631-928-1212 or email [email protected].

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker presents a proclamation to Marine Corps Veteran Janet Santeramo on June 10. Photo from Leg. Anker's office

On Friday, June 10, the Suffolk County Legislature hosted the 3rd annual Women Veterans Appreciation Day Ceremony. During the ceremony, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker recognized Janet Santeramo as this year’s Suffolk County Women Veterans Appreciation Day 6th District Honoree.

Janet Santeramo is a local veteran who proudly served in the United States Maine Corps, where she participated in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Cease Fire. She has received many accolades throughout her time serving in the United States military, including the Navy Achievement Medal, Southwest Asia Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Kuwaiti Liberation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Citation, Navy Unit Citation, National Defense Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, and the Cold War Ribbon. By the end of her active service, Janet had attained the rank of Sergeant and her Military Occupational Specialty was Metal Worker/Welder.

“It gives me great pride and it is an honor to recognize Janet Santeramo for this year’s Women Veterans Appreciation Day,” said Legislator Anker. “In addition to her service to our country and her work as an attorney, Janet has also dedicated her time to serving veterans in her community, whether it was while sitting on our county’s Task Force to Assist Retired Veterans (TARV) or as a member of a local VFW post.”

Currently, Janet Santeramo works as an attorney and partner at Turley, Redmond and Rosasco, where she has been instrumental in assisting veterans and their families in obtaining available veterans’ and Social Security benefits. As an active member of Post 6249 for the last 20 years and current Post Service Officer, Janet has also participated in many community events and has acted as a liaison between other veterans and local agencies and services. Through her work, she has assisted veterans in securing housing, counseling and financial services. Additionally, she has prioritized raising awareness on the rates of suicide in veterans and prevention efforts.

In 2020, the Suffolk County Legislature designated June 12th as Women Veterans Appreciation Day through Resolution 94-2020 to recognize women who proudly serve in the United States Armed Forces. Each year, a woman veteran is honored in each legislative district. For more information, please call Legislator Anker’s office at 631-854-1600.

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker presents Matteo Gravinese with a proclamation. Photo from Leg. Anker's office

On June 15, Suffolk County Legislator Anker visited the Heritage Center at the North Shore Heritage Park in Mount Sinai to congratulate Matteo Gravinese for being the 2022 Legislative District 6 recipient of the Suffolk County Youth Week Award during the Suffolk County Legislature’s “Youth Week.” Each year, the Suffolk County Legislature coordinates “Youth Week” during the third week in May. As a part of this celebration, each Legislator selects a young resident who has gone above and beyond in helping their community with extraordinary acts of community service.

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker presents Matteo Gravinese
with a proclamation. Photo from Leg. Anker’s office

“It is my honor to recognize Matteo Gravinese as the recipient of this year’s Suffolk County Youth Week Award in District 6,” said Legislator Anker. “I would like to thank Matteo for the impact he has had on the children and teens in our community through his work volunteering with North Shore Youth Council. Continue to shine your light on others, Matteo.”

“North Shore Youth Council (NSYC) was happy to nominate Matteo Gravinese to receive the Suffolk County Youth Week Award,” said North Shore Youth Council Executive Director Robert Woods. “Matteo has been volunteering with NSYC for the last two years and currently serves as the Vice President of our Youth Advisory Committee. Matteo emanates charisma and demonstrates passion and enthusiasm in all the projects he’s involved in. We thank him for his dedication to NSYC, his community and to all those he loves.”

As an active community member and volunteer, Matteo currently serves at the Vice President of North Shore Youth Council’s Youth Advisory Committee. Through his role, he has been instrumental in planning and facilitating community events such as Safe Halloween, the Heritage Park Carnival, youth recreation nights, North Shore Youth Council’s garden restoration projects and Habitat for Humanity. Matteo is described as always willing to take on more responsibility at North Shore Youth Council and is well known as a positive role model for the youth that utilize the services at the organization. He has successfully managed school work, sports, extracurricular activities and his vast volunteer efforts within the community.

To learn more about North Shore Youth Council, visit https://www.nsyc.com. For more information, please contact Legislator Anker’s office at (631) 854-1600.

Concerts are back in Rocky Point this summer. Photo by Greg Catalano

Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker is pleased to announce the Suffolk County Summer Community Concert Series in collaboration with community organizations including North Shore Youth Council, the Longwood Alliance, the Middle Island Civic Association, the Middle Island Fire Department, the Coram Civic Association, the Coram Fire Department, and the Ridge Civic Association.

“The summer community concerts have been instrumental in providing local performances with free-admission concerts across the district,” said Legislator Sarah Anker. “I encourage our community residents to attend these concerts that provide a wonderful entertainment venue for all ages. I thank the community organizations for their partnerships with my office.”

Concert Details:

 Mount Sinai Community Concert with North Shore Youth Council

Featuring: BonJourney

Date: Sunday, July 10th

Time: 7:00PM

Location: North Shore Heritage Park 633 Mount Sinai Coram Rd, Mount Sinai

 

Coram Community Concert with the Coram Civic Association and the Coram Fire Department

Featuring: Southbound

Date: Saturday, July 16th (rain date July 17th)

Time: 7:00PM

Location: Coram Fire Department Substation #2 on Pine Road and Route 112 in Coram

 

Middle Island Community Concert with Longwood Alliance, Middle Island Civic Association and the

Middle Island Fire Department

Featuring: 70’s Rock Band Parade

Date: Saturday, July 23rd

Time: 6:00PM

Location: Middle Island Fire Department 31 Arnold Dr, Middle Island

 

Ridge Community Concert with the Ridge Civic Association

Featuring: Abby Normal

Date: Sunday, July 24th (rain date July 31st)

Time: 4:00PM

Location: The Historic Longwood Estate Smith Road, Ridge

*Donations of Mac and Cheese will be accepted and collected for Blessings in a Backpack*

 

Downtown Rocky Point Community Concert with North Shore Youth Council

Featuring: Swingtime

Date: Tuesday, August 2nd

Time: 7:00PM

Location: St Anthony of Padua Church 614 Route 25A, Rocky Point

 

Downtown Rocky Point Community Concert with North Shore Youth Council

Featuring: 45RPM

Date: Tuesday, August 23rd

Time: 7:00PM

Location: St Anthony of Padua Church 614 Route 25A, Rocky Point

 

Middle Island Community Concert with Longwood Alliance, Middle Island Civic Association and the

Middle Island Fire Department

Featuring: Battle of the Bands (9:00AM-4:00PM), and In The Groove (6:00PM-8:00PM)

Date: Saturday, August 27th (rain date August 28th)

Time: 9:00AM-9:00PM

Location: Middle Island Fire Department, 31 Arnold Dr, Middle Island

There is no charge for admission to the concerts. For more information about the concerts, please contact the office of Legislator Sarah Anker’s office at (631) 854-1600.