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Thursday, July 17, 2025 ~ Volume 70 ~ Issue Number 33 ~ $1.00
By Raheem Soto Assemblyman Joe DeStefano says Long Islanders are being wrongly billed for New York City congestion fees tied to trips they never took, which forces them into months-long disputes. At the same time, the city’s transit program collects record revenue. DeStefano, who represents parts of Brookhaven, first noticed unexplained fees on his E-ZPass statement this winter. “When I reviewed my bill, I found charges for Manhattan’s congestion zone,” he said. “I’ve never taken my personal vehicle into the city — not once.” The congestion pricing program, which began January 5, imposes a $15 fee on most vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street. State leaders say the effort will cut traffic, lower emissions, and support critical transit upgrades. The system relies on cameras and plate readers at numerous locations throughout Manhattan. Continued Continuedon onpage page55
By Madison Warren This past week, Legislator Dominick Thorne officially opened Patchogue’s Canaan Lake Park. After a long journey of hard work and dedication from countless individuals, the park is now ready to welcome the community and create special memories for families for years to come. The revitalized space features a wide range of new additions, including updated fencing, a restored swing set, a flagpole, a kayak rental stand, improved trails, accessible features for individuals with disabilities, expanded shoreline access, and clear emergency routes for first responders. Canaan Lake Park, also known as the Richard Monko Preserve at Canaan Lake, is the perfect blend of history, nature, and recreation, located in North Patchogue. This has been a multi-phase, multi-million-dollar undertaking. Before this grand opening, the area had been overgrown and swamp-like for years; the lake had been completely drained, dredged, and refilled. After eight months of hard work in the area, it underwent a complete transformation.
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FULL STORIES ON:
Panico Moves to Demolish Lufker Airstrip Page 12
Patchogue’s Live After Five Page 12
Kennedy Hosts Suffolk County Heroes Breakfast Page 23
Credit - Madison Warren
Grand Opening of Patchogue’s Canaan Lake Park