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Suffolk County Legislature

Legislator Sanin (center-right) with the Elwood-John Glenn Boys Varsity Wrestling Team; Head Coach TJ Brocking (center-left; and David Shanahan, Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics (right). Photo courtesy of Leg. Sanin's office

At a recent meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin proudly honored the Elwood-John Glenn Boys Varsity Wrestling Team with an official proclamation recognizing their victory as the 2025 New York State Dual Meet Champions.

The Knights dominated in the Division II final, securing a 38-29 win over Plainedge, marking a historic moment for the program. The team displayed remarkable resilience in the semifinals, overcoming a 24-4 deficit to win seven straight matches, cementing their place in New York wrestling history.

“This championship victory is not just about wrestling—it’s about determination, discipline, and teamwork,” said Legislator Sanin. “These athletes and their coaches have worked incredibly hard, pushing through challenges and showing what true dedication looks like. Their achievement is an inspiration to our entire community.”

Legislator Sanin also recognized the team’s coaching staff—Head Coach TJ Brocking, along with Assistant Coaches Ryan Patrovich and Devin Carter—for their outstanding leadership in guiding the team to victory.

The team was celebrated with a school-wide assembly at Elwood-John Glenn High School, where their championship banner was raised, marking their second state dual meet title in school history.

Legislators Sanin (middle), Richberg (middle-left), and Donnelly (middle-left) with the students and coaches of the Half Hollow Hills West High School Varsity Girls Volleyball team

During Dec. 17th’s General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Rebecca Sanin, joined by her colleagues Legislators Jason Richberg and Thomas Donnelly, proudly recognized the Half Hollow Hills West High School Varsity Girls Volleyball Team for their extraordinary achievements during the 2024 season. The recognition ceremony took place in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

The team was celebrated for their remarkable performance throughout the season, culminating in a hard-fought victory in the NYSPHSAA Class AA Championship. Their thrilling five-set win over Fayetteville-Manlius in Glens Falls exemplified the true meaning of resilience, teamwork, and determination—qualities that helped propel them to the top of their game and secure the championship title.

“The Half Hollow Hills West Varsity Girls team has demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and the value of working together toward a common goal,” said Legislator Sanin. “This championship win is not just a triumph for the players, but for the entire community that rallied behind them. We are beyond proud of your achievements.”

Legislator Sanin also commended the dedicated coaches, Head Coach Nils Haugen and Assistant Coaches Diana Migliozzi and William Flohr, for their countless hours of hard work, practice, and preparation. “These coaches have not only shaped these athletes into champions but have also inspired everyone here at the Legislature and the entire Suffolk County community,” she said.

The ceremony celebrated the team’s exceptional qualities of perseverance, leadership, and teamwork, which defined their outstanding performance throughout the season. Their hard work has not only earned them a championship title but also made them a source of pride for the entire Suffolk County community.

“This honor goes beyond just winning a championship,” Legislator Sanin remarked. “It’s about recognizing a group of young athletes who exemplify dedication, unity, and the pursuit of excellence. You’ve set an inspiring example for us all. Congratulations on a season to remember!”

Legislators Sanin, Donnelly, and Richberg presented a proclamation to the team, formally acknowledging their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they’ve had on the community.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine

By Lisa Scott

Federal priorities and legislation will be markedly different in 2025. Donald Trump received 55% of Suffolk County votes for President, and both CD1 and CD2 Republican members of Congress were re-elected. (CD3 includes a very small part of northwestern Huntington, and re-elected their Democratic member of Congress). As we move through the coming year, it will be very important to stay in touch with your Congressional representative and express your opinions. If you are not sure of your CD or other elected officials, go to https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ and all your representative districts will be listed.

However, much of what affects our day-to-day lives is determined by New York State, Suffolk County and the 10 Towns that comprise Suffolk so our focus for 2025 should be familiarizing ourselves with local issues  and finances, and making our voices heard on these local levels. 

Suffolk County (according to the 2020 census) has a population of 1.5 million (578,940 households), with a 2024 Operating Budget Revenue of $5.172 billion and 2024 Operating Budget Expenditures of $4.133 billion. The taxable full valuation of property in the county is $405.5 billion. 

Revenue comes from property taxes, sales tax, state aid, federal aid, and other sources. The revenue stream included in the budget is only an estimate of the amounts that can be anticipated. If retail sales fall, the 8.625% sales tax yield will not be as great as anticipated. Similarly, if homeowners and business owners do not promptly pay their property tax, there is a shortfall. The county may borrow money in anticipation of receiving this revenue; therefore, debt service may be required because of this borrowing. 

Expenditures are for personnel, debt service, and a wide variety of services, such as police, education and economic assistance. About 39% of the $4.1 billion budget is mandated by various state and federal government programs, such as Medicaid, which restricts the freedom of the county to apportion expenditures. The remainder is “discretionary.”

Suffolk County’s proposed 2025 budget includes a tax increase for most homeowners, expected to average about $49 per home in Huntington, Smithtown and Brookhaven. The increase resulted from a shortfall in expected sales tax receipts, about $50 million less this year than what was projected, pension costs went up by about $43 million and health care costs went up by $66 million. Also Suffolk voters approved a clean water proposition in 2024; sales taxes will increase in March from 8.625% to 8.75%  (about 12 cents on a $100 purchase or $1.25 on a $1,000 purchase). 

Ed Romaine is our Suffolk County Executive ([email protected]) elected for a 4 year term. Other elected county-wide offices include Comptroller John M. Kennedy Jr.  ([email protected]), Clerk Vincent Puleo ([email protected]), District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney ([email protected]) and Sheriff Errol Toulon, Jr. (suffolk.sheriff@suffolkcounty ny.gov). 

There also is an 18 member Suffolk County Legislature, serving 2 year elected terms (term is limited to 12 years in office for all legislators). To find your SC Legislative District, go to https://www.scnylegislature.us/ and click on Find Your Representative. Then read up on your county legislator, find out what their priorities are and whether those are your priorities too. The General and committee meeting schedules are on the website, along with meeting minutes.

There are 13 committees which meet the week before each general (monthly) meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature to discuss proposed bills and issues and decide what moves forward to the full legislature. For example, the Veterans committee and Environment, Parks & Agriculture meet on Monday mornings, Economic Development, Planning and Housing on Wednesday afternoons and Public Safety on Thursday mornings. 

Since there are 10 Towns in Suffolk, and many incorporated Villages, there are other levels of representation, ordinances and codes. Concerned citizens need to navigate these levels and establish relationships with all your elected officials, so that when a question or issue arises, you are aware of which level of government has responsibility. Remember that elected officials work for YOU, and if you do not communicate clearly and responsibly your message will not receive the attention and response it deserves. 

To learn more about those who represent Suffolk County residents on every level of government and how to reach them, the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County issues an annual Directory of Public Officials in March, available online and as a pdf in English and in Spanish at https://my.lwv.org/new-york/suffolk-county.

Lisa Scott is president of the League of Women Voters of Suffolk County, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. For more information, visit https//my.lwv.org/new-york/suffolk-county.

Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright named David Tracy Veteran of the Year for the county’s Fifth Legislative District. Photo from Steve Englebright’s office

Suffolk County legislators honored veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces at the Legislature’s General Meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 26. During the meeting, each of the 18 legislators introduced a veteran as their district’s Veteran of the Year.

Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) chose Stony Brook resident David Tracy, a United States Marine Corps Corporal, to honor.

Tracy’s commitment to making our world a better place has been his mission since joining the Marines in 2003. He served for four years, and during the Global War on Terror, he completed two tours of duty in Iraq. Tracy’s service was not without personal sacrifice, as he was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining an injury during his first tour.

Since 2010, Tracy has continued his commitment to protecting his fellow Americans as a Law Enforcement Officer with the Department of Homeland Security.

Tracy, who lives in Stony Brook with his wife, Becky, and son, Sean, has become a familiar face in his community as the founder and chairman of the Three Village Dads Foundation. Since 2019, the foundation has raised approximately $400,000 for local causes, including $100,000 donated to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and $15,000 pledged to the Long Island State Veterans Home. Recently, foundation members refurbished the outside area of the historic Merritt-Hawkins Homestead in East Setauket and are now the house’s stewards.

Englebright said he recently toured the homestead with Tracy. He added that he was impressed by the interpretive narrative the veteran had composed for permanent signage now installed at the historic site. 

“It’s really noteworthy,” he said. “David Tracy has thoughtfully researched the significant aspects and features of the old growth woodland and Vernal pond parkland that this historic residence is embedded into.”

Additionally, Tracy serves as the quartermaster of VFW Post 3054 in Setauket and is a former trustee of the Three Village Historical Society and Three Village Community Trust.

“It is wonderful that today we have an opportunity to honor David Tracy’s many accomplishments and contributions,” Englebright said. “Thank you for your good work.”

 

Photo from Leg. McCaffrey's office

Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces from across Suffolk County were honored for their service and sacrifice in helping to protect our freedom and liberty. Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced a veteran as “Veteran of the Year” from their district at Tuesday’s General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building.

Suffolk County is home to the largest population of veterans in New York State and has one of the largest veterans’ populations of any county in the United States.

“Today’s recognition of our veterans is the least we can do for their vital role in protecting our freedom and liberty,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey. “My colleagues and I are proud to celebrate the inspiring commitment of these men and women who have significantly contributed to their communities and our Nation. By publicly commemorating their achievements, Suffolk County reaffirms its gratitude and respect for those who have served in the Armed Forces, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices remain a lasting part of our County’s and our Nation’s legacy.

“From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Christopher M. Geackel of Lindenhurst, who retired from the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant in 2006 after 23 years of service. Among his awards, Chris received three Commendation Medals, five Air Force Achievement Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals; and was named the Community College of the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer and Athletic Warrior of the Year.”

“As a member of Wade-Burns VFW Post 7279 for 17 years, Chris has served as both Post Commander and Suffolk County Commander. He serves as coordinator of the Village of Lindenhurst Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and regularly visits the Long Island State Veterans Home and VA Hospital, to provide clothing, birthday cake, gifts, and vouchers to fellow veterans. He is a truly a shining example of selfless service,” said McCaffrey.

November is a somber and celebratory month for veterans, including as it does Veterans Day on November 11th – where ceremonies mark “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in honor of the men and women who have served our nation – as well as the US Marine Corps birthday on November 10th.

LD Legislator Veteran and Rank Branch Residence:

  1 Catherine Stark — Michael Mundy US Marine Corps Shelter Island, Lance Corporal

  2 Ann Welker — Bob Grisnik US Air Force Southampton, Colonel

  3 Jim Mazzarella — Enrico ‘Rick’ Rossi US Navy Shirley, Seaman

  4 Nick Caracappa —  Frank Sanzone US Air Force Selden, Master Sergeant

  5 Steve Englebright — David Tracy US Marine Corps Stony Brook Corporal

  6 Chad Lennon — Joe Cognitore US Army Rocky Point, Platoon Sergeant & Platoon Leader

  7 Dominick Thorne — Walter Maresco US Air Force Medford, Airman First Class

  8 Anthony Piccirillo — William Borthwick US Army Oakdale, Specialist 4

  9 Sam Gonzalez — Dr. Jaime Marcos US Marine Corps Bay Shore, Sergeant

10 Trish Bergin — Christopher J. Hirsch US Army Hauppauge, Specialist Fifth Class

11 Steve Flotteron — William F. Murray US Army Bay Shore, Specialist Fourth Class

12 Leslie Kennedy — Grace Mehl US Navy Smithtown, Commander

13 Rob Trotta — Marty Thompson US Navy Saint James, Senior Chief Petty Officer

14 Kevin McCaffrey — Christopher M. Geackel US Air Force Lindenhurst, Master Sergeant

15 Jason Richberg — Charles ‘Chuck’ Vinciulla US Navy Amityville, Corpsman

16 Rebecca Sanin — Santiago Mejia US National Guard Huntington Station, Staff Sergeant

17 Tom Donnelly — Charlie Armstrong US Air Force South Huntington, Sergeant

18 Stephanie Bontempi — Eugene Leavy US Army East Northport, Sergeant

More information on each honoree can be found on the Suffolk County Legislature’s website at the following link:

https://www.scnylegislature.us/1764/2024-Veteran-of-the-Year

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

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.

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.

Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright thanked Joan Nickeson for her extensive volunteer work at an event on Nov. 19. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office

At a Nov. 19 event held at the Suffolk County Legislature building in Hauppauge, all 18 legislators recognized a nonprofit volunteer from their districts.

Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) honored Joan Nickeson for her volunteer efforts, particularly with the Cumsewogue Historical Society, (the historical society uses the traditional spelling of “Cumsewogue” to honor the area’s Native American roots,) as well as the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce. 

“Some constituents reinforce our sense of place through their demonstrative commitment to the things that make and define our communities, and Joan Nickeson, a prolific volunteer, is an example of such a person,” Englebright said. “She is one of the reasons that the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville community has so much heart.”

Nickeson, president of the Cumsewogue Historical Society, was a founding member of the nonprofit in 2009 and helped restructure the organization in recent years.Through presentations and Q&As, the society preserves the history of the area, which includes Port Jefferson Station and Terryville, fostering a sense of place for residents.

For more than five years, Nickeson has served as the community liaison director and recording secretary for the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce. She organizes activities such as fundraisers, summer concerts, ribbon-cuttings and holiday events.

Recently, Nickeson received the Volunteer of the Year Award from Literacy Suffolk for her work as a language-level tester for students.

Nickeson is also involved with Old Town Blooms, assisting with community planting projects, including bulb plantings along Old Town Road. In 2012, she was named The Port Times Record’s Environmentalist of the Year for her work with the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Civic Association’s Beautification Committee. Her efforts with the committee included collaborating with the Town of Brookhaven to expand the Terryville Greenbelt conservation area around Comsewogue High School.

Englebright described Nickeson as a “hometown hero” during the event and thanked her for her community service.

“Joan, through your personal example you have made us all proud of where we live,” Englebright said. “You have proven time and time again that you are an asset to our community and our county.”

Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Legislature

Small businesses from across Suffolk County were recognized for their critical role as the backbone of the local economy.  Each of the 18 members of the Suffolk County Legislature introduced an honoree from their district at Oct. 1’s General Meeting of the Legislature in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium of the William H. Rogers Legislative Building in Hauppauge.

With this ceremony, the lawmakers honored individual businesses – with fewer than 25 employees—and noted the unique contributions to the community that these businesses and their owners make every day.  The businesses — ranging from restaurants, including pizzerias and delis, to insurance agencies, to local newspapers and salons – were each chosen for their standing within their community and were often cited for their civic and charitable endeavors.

“Our small businesses deserve to be recognized for their part in making Suffolk a thriving and desirable place to live,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey.  “From my district, I am pleased to be able to honor Peter Buccino, the proud owner of Viking Solutions in Lindenhurst since 2015. He started with the company, then named Cardwell Condenser Corporation, just a week after graduating from Copiague High School in 1979. Peter then worked his way up the ladder all the way to taking ownership in 2015.”

“Peter is an active member of the business community locally and across the county. He is the First Vice President of the Copiague Chamber of Commerce, an Executive Board Member of the Lindenhurst Chamber, and a member of the North Babylon and Montauk Chambers. Peter Buccino’s smiling face can be seen at many events in the district. He is a truly a small business success and embodies the spirit of this award,” said McCaffrey.

Across the United States, small businesses employ nearly half the American workforce, representing 43.5% of America’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to the US Chamber of Commerce. Suffolk County itself is home to many thousands of small businesses. As a partial measure of the number and variety of small businesses, the Suffolk County Department Labor, Licensing, and Consumer Affairs notes that there are over 15,800 active licenses and registrations for businesses. The wide range of businesses encompasses, for example, appliance repair, painters, electricians, plumbers, sign hangers, precious metal dealers, dry cleaners, and more.

HONOREES by LD:

LD Legislator Small Business Honoree Business Location

  1. Catherine Stark  — Wendy’s Deli in Mattituck

  2. Ann Welker West—  Robins Oysters in Southampton

  3. Jim Mazzarella —  TJs Hero Shop in Mastic Beach

  4. Nick Caracappa — Team Rita (Tsoukaris) in Centereach

  5. Steve Englebright—  Bagel Express in Setauket

  6. Chad Lennon — Personal Fitness in Rocky Point

  7. Dominick Thorne — Greg Mehrhoff State Farm Agency in Bellport

  8. Anthony Piccirillo — Joe’s Pizza and Pasta in Holbrook

  9. Sam Gonzalez—  Gala Foods in Brentwood

10. Trish Bergin — Bellina’s Pizza & Restaurant in East Islip

11. Steve Flotteron — Our Little Italy in West Islip

12. Leslie Kennedy — Maureen’s Kitchen in Smithtown

13. Rob Trotta — The Smithtown News in Smithtown

14. Kevin McCaffrey, PO — Viking Solutions in Lindenhurst

15. Jason Richberg — Valde Ice Cream in Wyandanch

16. Rebecca Sanin — Zaro’s Café in Huntington Station

17. Tom Donnelly — Soto Appearance Enhancement Salon in Deer Park

18. Stephanie Bontempi — Twisted Cow Distillery in East Northport

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright, left, and David Prestia, co-owner of Bagel Express. Photo from Steven Englebright’s office

Each of the 18 Suffolk County Legislators honored a small business from their district at the Legislature’s General Meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 1.


Caption: Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright, left, and David Prestia, co-owner of Bagel Express. Photo from Steven Englebright’s office

When tasked with choosing a small business that has made unique contributions to the community, Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) knew Bagel Express in Setauket was the perfect choice. At the Oct. 1 presentation, Englebright described co-owner David Prestia as “a wonderful man.”

“For many years, I have had the pleasure of knowing David Prestia,” the legislator said. “Bagel Express is known for its delicious bagels and catering in the Three Village Area, and Dave is recognized as a businessman who wholeheartedly embraces the community.”

For 30 years, Prestia has been a constant and welcoming presence in the Three Village community. His generosity with food donations and volunteering his time has been unwavering since he opened his first business in the area, Fratelli’s Market Place, with his business partners, Eric Keller and his brother, Michael Prestia.

Three Village residents can find him and his employees preparing food and engaging with their neighbors at countless community events, including the Chicken Hill Barbecue and Culper Spy Day 5K. Prestia is also known for his festive spirit, handing out free hot chocolate and cookies at the Three Village Electric Holiday Parade. He donates food to local trail cleanups, and during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Prestia and his team delivered heroes to Stony Brook University Hospital workers.

Bagel Express has also sponsored the Staller Center for the Arts at SBU receptions and is a proud supporter of SBU Athletics. In addition to donating time and food, Prestia offers valuable business and community knowledge as a trustee on the Three Village Community Trust board and as a director of the Three Village Chamber of Commerce.

“David Prestia and Bagel Express are more than just an owner and a business; they are staples in the community,” Englebright said. “Under David Prestia’s inspired leadership, Bagel Express has become a crossroads in our community, where goodwill intersects with and reinforces the Three Village’s indelible sense of place. Thank you, Dave, for all you do and all you have done. You honor us every day and are a vital part of the fabric of our community.”