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Thursday, September 24, 2026 ~ Volume 71 ~ Issue Number 43 ~ $1.00
MacArthur Area’s Economic Potential on the Map By Matt Meduri
By Matt Meduri The MacArthur Business Alliance (MBA) has been keen on gauging exactly the economic footprint in central Suffolk led by MacArthur Airport (ISP). That prerogative was manifested Tuesday evening with the unveiling of their long-studied economic impact statement (EIS). The study was performed by Camoin Associates, a Virginia-based economic development consulting firm, in conjunction with the MBA, Town of Islip Economic Development, and Suffolk County’s Economic Development Corporation. Chris Coluccio, President of the MBA, said that while the EIS was two years in the making, for him, it’s been about a decade since he first moved his office to the Ronkonkoma area. Continued on page 5
Islip MacArthur Airport and the surrounding areas (Credit - wikimedia commons, Jaro Nemčok)
Annual 3-on-3
Basketball Night Brings Community Together By PJ Balzer This past Friday evening was both special and monumental for the town of Brookhaven. Supervisor Dan Panico (R-Center Moriches) hosted his annual Brookhaven Youth 3-on-3 basketball tournament. But this year and evening were extra special. This event is hosted annually by the town’s Youth Bureau as part of its Safe Summer Program. It’s a summertime initiative in Brookhaven to give teenagers both safe spaces and fun things to do. This event usually brings out local teens ages 13 to 18 for an evening of pickup basketball. Teams are randomly selected throughout the night, and participants also receive commemorative T-shirts. Continued on page 10
Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier, of the NY Knicks, and Keith Caputo, of Helping Makes U Happy (Credit - Town of Brookhaven)
FULL STORIES ON:
Legislator Does Pull-Ups for Vets Awareness Page 10
Candidate Spotlight: Doug Smith Page 15
Comsewogue Soccer on the Move Page 23
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Messenger Papers Thursday, September 24, 2026
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AUTUMN EVENTS Sayville Farmers Market at the Islip Grange: Every Saturday until November, 9:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. Port Jefferson Farmers Market: Every Sunday until November, 9:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. Islip Farmers Market at Town Hall: Every Saturday, 7:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. Suffolk County Farmers Market at the H. Lee Dennison Building: Thursdays through October 1, 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. Tiny Tots – “Nature Discoveries”: Every Thursday, 10:30a.m. to 11:30a.m. through September at Nissequogue River State Park Intro to Wilderness Survival (Adult Program): Saturday, September 26, 9:45a.m. to 12:00p.m. Natural History Tour (Adult Programs): Sunday, September 27, 10:30a.m. to 12:00p.m. at Nissequogue River State Park.
Antiques and Yard Sale at Olish Farms Over 45 Families Selling in Covered Greenhouse (RAIN OR SHINE) Hot Food & More 75 Eastport Manor Rd, Eastport Saturday, September 26 & Sunday September 27, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Passport Through Parks (Family Program): Sunday, September 27, 10:00a.m to 12:00p.m. at Robert Moses State Park. Shark Extravaganza: Wednesday, September 30, 10:30a.m. to 11:30a.m. at Connetquot River State Park. Pitch & Putt Tournament at Robert Moses State Park: Open to first 72 registrants. Tee-off is 10:00a.m. on Sunday, October 4. Rain date for Sunday, October 11. Entry fee is $40 per person, $160 per foursome. Deadline is September 25.
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Suffolk Matters Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Long-Time Suffolk Dems Chair Hangs on in High-Stakes Showdown
By Matt Meduri argued in his own statement that he took the fall to protect politicallyappointed jobs at Suffolk OTB/ Jake’s 58. In the end, Schaffer prevailed over Quigley after 12 rounds of voting that lasted over 3 hours. He won 113,010 votes to Quigley’s 84,234 - about a 14-point margin. “Now, we need to be united and pivot to our greater mission as Democrats - to defeat all Republicans this November,” wrote Team Schaffer on social media after the race was called. “We have truly accomplished so much in these 10 months - imagine what more we can and will do,” wrote Quigley on social media. “Let’s keep working our neighborhoods to get out the vote
this November. Our communities need us.” Schaffer swept his hometown of Babylon, while Quigley easily locked up her home town of Southold and neighboring Shelter Island. Quigley came close in Smithtown and parts of Brookhaven, while she narrowly won Islip. Schaffer took Southampton by a surprisingly large margin, as well as the bluest township in the county, East Hampton. All eyes now look to November, where Democrats hope to retain national momentum in what’s shaping up to be a bad year for the GOP. Some delegates The Messenger spoke with expressed concern that the “blue wave” they’re hoping for in Suffolk might have been stunted by a drawn-out and bitter fight for control of the committee. Credit - Matt Meduri
party furious with Schaffer’s leadership over the years, owing mostly to a nearcomplete collapse of the Democratic brand in Suffolk. Schaffer attributed that atrophy to poor national and state standings of the Democratic Party amidst a 2023 red wave that delivered Suffolk Republicans control of the County Executive seat and a supermajority in the County Legislature simultaneously for the first time since 1996. The ultimate fire that arguably lit the party into chaos was a deal gone wrong between Schaffer and County Republicans and Conservatives that saw the Democrats’ County Clerk seat abandon the race for a judgeship on the Conservative line. That candidate, Anthony Portesy (D-Huntington), (Credit - Team KCQ)
The Suffolk County Democratic Committee drew thousands of attendees to its convention on Tuesday night at the Huntington Hilton in Melville to keep the party, more or less, where it is or go in a different direction. Suffolk Democrats ultimately chose to retain Chairman Rich Schaffer (D-North Babylon) (pictured far right) over Southold Democratic Chair Kathryn Casey Quigley (D-Southold) (pictured right) after months of tense intraparty fighting. Schaffer, who also serves as Babylon Town Supervisor, had not faced a serious chairmanship challenge in his 26 years on the job. Quigley, who’s served as Southold Chair since 2017, represented an insurgent, progressive wing of the
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
MacArthur Area’s Economic Potential on the Map “I drive around this area and think, ‘what a gem we have on Long Island,’” said Coluccio (pictured right). “I think we can make this probably the greatest industrial area in all of New York if we all come together and understand what an asset we have here.” The area in question is the immediate 5-mile radius around the airport, which runs from the north side of Sunrise Highway to Railroad Avenue and west to the Connetquot River. The bordering communities in the greater area include East Patchogue to Oakdale along the south shore, Farmingville to Smithtown hamlet in the north, as well as Holtsville, Islip Terrace, North Great River, and parts of Central Islip and Islandia. Veterans Highway (NY-454) is considered the main corridor, while the airport is the anchor and the LIRR Ronkonkoma station is a reliable bolster. Key Findings The study found that about 40,000 direct jobs are based in the area, while the indirect impact is closer to 80,000 jobs across the Island. That accounts for $7 billion in salary earnings and $20 billion in sales. The study also noted a “one-to-one” multiplier: for every job in the district, the area supports another job elsewhere on Long Island. The impact doesn’t stop on the Island, however, as the study found that nearly $23 billion in sales across the state are supported by businesses within just the immediate area around the airport. The anchor of the district, the airport itself, is also heralded in the study as one of the key assets that make the business district one of the most unique in the state. With 6 airlines and 16 nonstop destinations, the airport served over 1.6 million passengers in 2025. Last year, ISP was named the second-best small airport in the country in the USA Today 10Best Survey. Long Island’s regional airport is currently in the lead; voting ends Monday, October 5. The airport makes the district the only business area in Suffolk County with direct airport, rail, and interstate access, along with close proximity to routes to New York City and the Hamptons. The “innovation ecosystem,” as the study describes it, consists of institutions that directly benefit from the district. Those stakeholders include Stony Brook University, Northwell Health & NYU Langone, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Farmingdale State College, Suffolk County College, and St. Joseph’s University in Patchogue.
Top Industries in the Area 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Aerospace National Defense Commercial Aviation Testing Pharmaceuticals and Nutrition Medical Technology Advanced Manufacturing Technology Engineering and Environmental Science
Around just 3,500 establishments employ the 40,000 people within the district. Most of those are construction, retail trade, and professional, scientific, and technical services. Health care, social assistance, accommodation and food services, manufacturing, wholesale trade, finance and insurance, and even waste services were all found to be some of the area’s major employers. The lion’s share of each of those categories are small businesses those with less than 5 employees each. The market is responding and is ready for more. Station Yards’ overhaul of the Ronkonkoma LIRR hub has greatly improved aesthetics and quality of life - and another phase is underway - while Islip officials are looking to expand the airport, improve connectivity with the train station, and create more economic engines in the hub. Individual polls and focus groups performed for the study show that most respondents would like to see a convention or conference center. In equal standing in the polls, respondents would enjoy airport expansion or enhanced airport services and beautification and modernization of the NY-454 corridor. A life science, research, and innovation hub, often pitched as the hopeful primary economic driver around the airport, respondents say, would be just as preferable as improved rail services, such as Amtrak, for regional connectivity. The lowest-placing item on that hypothetical list was expanded and higher-quality hotels, but demand for it exists, nonetheless. Challenges do exist, however, but they consist of expanded sewer capacity and transportation infrastructure, a shared land use-development vision between all stakeholders and government partners, and balancing expansion with volume carefully. Richard Zapolski, Islip’s former Planning Commissioner, outlined some of the notable contributions to American history, culture, and everyday life that the district produces. “Inside the buildings most of us drive by every day, people are designing, engineering, manufacturing, and testing some of the most sophisticated technology in the world,” said Zapolski. Aerospace is a notable top of the list, as Long Island itself has deep roots in early space exploration and the Moon Landing. Businesses in the area design systems for astronauts’ safety. In national defense, Zapolski said companies like East/West Industries are part of the defense supply chain, including jets, helicopters, weapons, and electronics. Components for the Apache and Black Hawk helicopters and F16 jets are made right in the heart of Suffolk. Commercial aviation is number-three. Banner Metalcraft is one in the aviation supply chain, making structural parts of Boeing, Sikorsky, and Gulfstream aircrafts. “The next time you’re sitting in an airplane, look around. Some of what keeps that aircraft flying might have a connection to right here in Islip.” Number four is the testing industry, which primarily consists of testing aircraft in events of lightning storms, electromagnetic pulses, and other events. Weapons up to .50 caliber are also tested by companies like Retlif Testing
Laboratories in Ronkonkoma. Pharmaceutical and nutrition are substantiated by companies like Nature’s Bounty, of Bohemia, which Zapolski says “grew into a global vibrant powerhouse.” These manufacturers make vitamines, melatonin, products for hair, skin, and nails, as well as sports supplements and mouthwash. “There’s a good chance something in your medicine cabinet has a Long Island story behind it.” Medical technology accounts for a good chunk of the area’s business. Qosina, of Ronkonkoma, supplies more than 5,000 components used to build medical devices. Advanced manufacturing in the area accounts for some of the nascent technology and energy generation. These businesses, like Ronkonkoma’s Sigma Aerospace Metals, experiment with super alloys to withstand extreme conditions, not only building the parts, but supplying the “exotic” materials required. Technology involved in “real-time data, rugged computing, and sophisticated electronics” is also at home near ISP. Zebra Technologies, of Holtsville, notably provides the NFL’s nextgen statistics. Engineering and environmental science are in full swing in the district, PW Grosser, of Bohemia, being a notable example. These firms study geology, groundwater, coastal resiliency, and infrastructure challenges on a daily basis. What They’re Saying Elected Officials for the State, County, and Town governments are all-in on helping the area realize its true economic potential. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) (pictured left) said that the ISP area “outpaces” even the Hauppauge Industrial Park, the second-largest such park in the nation behind Silicon Valley. “There is so much more we can do [for the identity of the area],” said Romaine. The County has issued an RFP on the 48 acres that they own just north of the airport adjacent to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station. “This is confirming everything we knew in our hearts how important this area is to the economy of Suffolk County,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter (R-West Islip) (pictured right). She mentioned that even Governor Kathy Hochul (D-Hamburg), who toured the airport in February alongside a $150 million check for infrastructure improvement, recognized the economic engine ISP is. Assemblyman Doug Smith (R-Holbrook) (pictured left) acknowledged that many local officials grew up in the vicinity of the airport and used it for travel regularly. He also credited Supervisor Carpenter, who is serving out her last term, saying, “no one has done more for this airport.” “It’s a great time to invest, it’s a great time to expand!” said Smith. Islip Town Councilman John Lorenzo (C-West Sayville), whose district includes the airport itself, worked at the airport in the mid-1990s and says it’s “booming and hustling” just like it was in its heyday. “We’re going to make sure that our district keeps our kids here [with] good, high-paying jobs,” said Lorenzo (pictured left). “This place is special.”
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Editorial Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Fly MacArthur…and Vote for it Too! Long Island’s very own MacArthur Airport (ISP) is perhaps in its most transformational stage yet. The airport’s expansion speaks for itself. Headlines in our paper, as well as many others, cover the steady drip of new routes the facility offers, and each new carrier - now up to 6 - is welcomed in appropriate fashion. In its roughest period yet, the airport was averaging about 6 flights per day. Now, the airport offers up to nearly 40 flights per day for over 1.5 million passengers each year. MacArthur is more than just Suffolk’s own regional airport and an attractive alternative to trekking into the city to simply go on vacation. It’s an economic engine whose full potential has not yet been realized. The MacArthur Business Alliance (MBA) made a significant undertaking in commissioning an economic impact statement (EIS), essentially a formal gauge of an area’s total economic footprint and what exactly the region wants, needs, and can accommodate. It’s the necessary first step in forming a cohesive, long-term master plan for an area with the size and scope of ISP’s, and there’s perhaps no other business district that’s coming online quite as the MacArthur Hub is. We were stunned to see the sheer economic value for which ISP is the anchor: $7 billion in annual salaries, 40,000 direct jobs within the 5-mile radius of the airport, and $20 billion in revenue each year. Moreover, the rest of Suffolk and the Island enjoy the fruits of ISP’s hegemony, as does New York State at large. It’s not a massive surprise, but to see the impact quantified and the suspicions confirmed opens the door on possibilities. The future of the airport itself is regularly in the newscycle, especially regarding the debate between a new north terminal and expanding the south terminal. While challenges are present in both, we think expanding the existing terminal and rebuilding the currently dormant west wing is the more pragmatic approach, but no stakeholder here is looking to destroy what has been meticulously cultivated over the years. Supervisor Angie Carpenter
(R-West Islip) and company on the Town Board deserve immense credit for seeing a vision some found unthinkable, and ISP Commissioner Rob Schneider and his team are probably some of the most influential movers and shakers on the Island at present, we find, especially in light of the economic value the airport possesses. Supporting small businesses is a no-brainer, and many of them not only dot the landscape just outside the airport, but they’re big players in national sectors like aerospace, defense, pharmaceuticals, and advanced technologies. To think that the heart of Suffolk and the beloved airport could be such a boon to innovation and significance is an honor unto itself. But supporting local small businesses is only part of the puzzle, now more than ever in light of the economic study. We urge our readers to support the airport itself. While there’s no sign of its growth slowing down, we think now is the time to hit the accelerator even harder. We can perfectly understand why air travel might become less common in the coming months, or even years, due to the impending oil/energy crisis - some parts exacerbated by President Trump, other parts exacerbated by New York’s counterintuitive energy policies - but for when travel is in the budget or otherwise necessary, try Islip first. Moreover, we’re anticipating a strong finish for the airport in the USA Today 10Best Survey. ISP placed third in 2024 and second last year. The people in the engine room of one of Suffolk’s foremost economic powerhouses earnestly and understandably want a first-place finish this year. We’re pleased to report that ISP is currently leading the charge among 20 other small airports around the country. This isn’t a one-person-one-vote scenario; you can vote once a day for any of the 20 contending facilities - although we find it difficult to imagine Suffolk residents voting for any other airport than Islip. We fully endorse a once-a-day vote for ISP as the best small airport in the nation. Such recognition would be the icing on the cake for the business district at such a pivotal moment in its history.
The Press Sticks Together in a Stunning Rebuke President Donald Trump’s (R-FL) controversial and unprecedented decision to ban certain members of the White House press pool is even too much for outlets sympathetic to the president’s agenda to bear. While Trump’s decision stands unparalleled in scope, it’s not the first time a president has tried to strong-arm a news organization off White House grounds. In 2009, President Barack Obama (D-IL) attempted to bar Fox News from a Treasury press pool, claiming they were not a legitimate organization. When other outlets refused to participate without Fox, Obama backed down. In the early 1970s, post-Watergate, President Richard Nixon (R-CA) did narrow The Washington Post’s freedom to the grounds of and around the White House, as opposed to setting foot in the building, but their credentials were never fully repealed. Enter Donald Trump, who in 2017 tried to revoke CNN’s Jim Acosta’s credentials. That move was overturned by the courts. In 2025, Trump limited the Associated Press’ access to certain spaces. They were excluded from locales like Air Force One and the Oval Office. No exact parallel exists for Trump’s latest move, which we don’t think the courts will allow. Moreover, in solidarity with CNN, MSNOW, and Politico, practically the entire digital and print legacy media pool, including Fox, are now striking. Newsmax, while not joining the White House blackout, has publicly opposed Trump’s decision. Here’s the President’s own words on his logic for this decision: “Because they’re fake news…You get so tired of reading and seeing fake news…It’s really just cumulative stories over the last few years. You get sick of it… They purposely write negative news.” How succinct. One could argue that many legacy media outlets are highly critical of Trump, maybe to a point where their coverage is too subjective. In 2017, many of Trump’s supporters agreed that the media was “fake news,” not because they leaned
liberal at-large, but because they worked to obfuscate the facts and hide the real damage that the Washington Industrial Complex has inflicted on the American way of life. Trump banning these three liberal outlets is a much different ballgame, however. We can understand a politician turning oneself off to certain outlets for flippantly biased coverage, but not at the expense of constitutional rights infringements or sacrificing one’s own ability to write the narratives they wish to see in print. The bigger issue for Trump, in our view, isn’t that these outlets are pathologically covering his administration negatively. It’s that his administration is largely viewed negatively by ordinary people. The latest Civiqs poll averages have Trump above water in approval rating in just 9 states. He won 31 in the 2024 election. For comparison, he left office in 2012 with a net-positive approval rating in 16 states - not stellar, but not disastrous like his current marks are. The current RealClearPolitics average has Trump’s approval at -21, the worst this term so far and not far below his worst rating of his first term. In our view, media blackouts can only work when a person cuts him/herself off from any interaction with said outlet, not by dismissing outlets en masse for perceived coverage. Trump could have simply done a better job the last two years and maybe the coverage wouldn’t be nearly as negative as it deserves to be. History doesn’t always repeat, but it certainly does rhyme, and news outlets understand this type of solidarity implicitly. They joined Fox when Obama tried to kick them out in 2009, and Fox is joining the liberal outlets when Trump is trying to dispel them now. At face value, a narrative should be much more feared when one only side is granted the privilege of even having a shot at writing it.
Op-Ed Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
The Graham Sanctions Act: A Victory for Peace Through Strength By Congressman Nick LaLota As a Navy veteran who served our country overseas, I believe America must maintain the world’s strongest military, stand with our allies, and protect our national interests. But that doesn’t mean sending our sons and daughters into every conflict around the world. America should not be an interventionist nation. We should be a nation that deters wars before they start through military strength, effective diplomacy, and credible economic pressure. The Obama and Biden Administrations, more focused on appeasement and wokeness than demonstrating strength, failed to deter our adversaries. Russia seized Crimea under Obama and launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine under Biden, while Iran accelerated its nuclear enrichment program. These developments underscore why America needs a foreign policy grounded in peace through strength, not weakness that invites aggression. That is why I voted for the bipartisan Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which President Trump recently signed into law. The legislation strengthens sanctions on Russian officials, banks, energy
companies, and those helping Vladimir Putin evade existing sanctions. It also gives President Trump additional tools to impose tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy and financing Putin’s war machine. These are powerful tools for confronting aggression without putting U.S. troops in harm’s way. Putin has banned me from entering Russia because of my outspoken opposition to his aggression. I consider that a badge of honor. But confronting Putin cannot be America’s responsibility alone. President Trump has been right to demand that our NATO allies contribute more to our collective defense. For too long, U.S. taxpayers have carried a disproportionate share of the burden of protecting Europe. Countries like Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania deserve recognition for investing heavily in their own defense. They understand the threat posed by Putin and are putting their money where their mouths are. Germany has made significant progress, but it and Spain must continue increasing their contributions to meet NATO’s growing defense requirements. Every member of the alliance must
contribute its fair share. America should lead NATO, not bankroll it alone. A stronger NATO, with European allies taking greater responsibility for their own security, allows America to remain engaged in the world without bearing every burden or fighting every battle. We can support Ukraine’s sovereignty, strengthen NATO, and confront Putin through economic and diplomatic pressure without committing U.S. troops to another foreign war. This is not isolationism. nor is it a blank check for foreign intervention. It is a recognition that America’s military power is most effective when it deters aggression, our allies share responsibility, and our adversaries understand that threatening our interests carries consequences. As someone who has worn our nation’s uniform, I know the responsibility that comes with decisions about war and peace. Our service members deserve a foreign policy that takes their sacrifice seriously and exhausts other means of protecting our national interests before putting them in harm’s way. A strong America. A stronger NATO. Fewer wars. That is peace through strength.
Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Amityville) is a Navy veteran and represents New York’s First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2023. NY-01 contains the entire towns of East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Smithtown, Southampton, Southold, most of the Town of Huntington, and the northern half of the Town of Brookhaven. The First District office is located at 515 Hauppauge Road, Suite 3B, in Hauppauge, and can be reached at 631-289-1097. Mobile office hours are held on Thursdays from 1:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. at 109 King Road in Rocky Point.
If Young Families Can’t Afford Long Island, We Have a Bigger Problem By Jack Cutrone I hear a version of the same story far too often. Someone grew up on Long Island. Their parents are here. Their friends are here. Maybe they volunteer with the local fire department, coach a youth team or work for a local business. They get married, start thinking about children and eventually begin looking for a house. Then reality hits: they wonder whether they can actually afford to stay. That should concern all of us. This is not simply a real estate problem; it is a community problem. Suffolk County’s median single-family sale price reached $760,000 in August, according to OneKey MLS, compared with $710,000 a year earlier. Behind those numbers are real families trying to make decisions about their future. When young people leave Long Island because they cannot afford housing, we lose more than potential homeowners. We lose future volunteer firefighters. We lose teachers. We lose nurses. We lose small-business owners. We lose the people who would eventually coach Little League, join civic associations and raise the next generation in the communities where they themselves grew up. There is no easy solution. Land is limited. Construction is expensive, property taxes are significant,
and infrastructure matters. Long Island residents understandably care about protecting the character of their neighborhoods. Those concerns should not be dismissed, but neither should the concerns of a 30-year-old couple wondering whether the only way to buy their first house is to leave New York. We need more balance. For decades, the classic American starter home was exactly that—a start. It might have had two or three bedrooms. It might have been 1,200 or 1,500 square feet. The kitchen was not perfect. The bathroom was not something you would see on HGTV. But a working family could buy it, improve it over time, and build a life there. Today, we need to ask whether enough of that type of housing is being created. New construction frequently targets higher price points because land, labor, materials, and regulatory costs make smaller projects difficult to pencil out. Meanwhile, existing starter homes become increasingly valuable because so many buyers are competing for them. The result is predictable: prices rise. That is why I believe our housing conversation needs to become more practical.
Where does it make sense to allow smaller homes? Where can vacant or obsolete commercial properties be reconsidered? Where can downtown housing work? Can seniors who want to downsize find appropriate housing in the communities they already call home? Can we make approval processes faster and more predictable while still protecting residents and the environment? Those are more productive questions than simply arguing over whether we are “pro-development” or “antidevelopment.” Housing decisions should be made carefully. Nobody is arguing that every open piece of land should be covered with houses. Infrastructure needs to support growth. Traffic, schools, sewers and wastewater treatment, water quality, and community character all matter. But affordability matters too. The danger is believing we can freeze Long Island exactly as it is and somehow make housing cheaper at the same time. Those goals are difficult to reconcile. When there are more people who want homes than there are homes available, prices face upward pressure. We see that every week in the real estate market. Well-priced entry-level homes can attract immediate attention because
the number of people looking for them is often greater than the number available. We should want our children and grandchildren to have the option of remaining near us. They may choose to move somewhere else, and that is fine, but being priced out is not much of a choice. Long Island has spent generations building strong communities. The next challenge is making sure another generation can afford to become part of them. Jack Cutrone is a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Patriot Real Properties and a Military Relocation Professional serving buyers and sellers across Suffolk and Nassau counties.
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Small Business Spotlight Thursday, September 24, 2026
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Andy Battiloro - Absolute Performance
By Diane Caudullo Absolute Performance Auto Repair has been a mainstay in Bohemia and is about to celebrate its 40th year in business. Located at 50-3 Feldland Street, Andy Battiloro is the mechanic you keep. His lengthy list of customers are all repeat customers, and more than just two or three times repeat, but years-long customers - decades-long customers, even. While The Messenger stayed for about two hours or so to talk with Andy, there was a constant flow of people in and out of his lobby. Every one of them came in with the energy of seeing a close friend. You could see the familiarity each one, and you Keithwith Groshans realized Andy knew and cared about them all. He knew who was packing up for their yearly trip down to Florida for the winter. He knew who couldn’t wait an extra day for their car because they had no other way to get to work. He spoke about the young man who had just left and is now the second generation of a family of customers. Andy has many customers like that - the parents, then the kids, and even some grandkids. Andy has had many occasions, feeling humbled and honored, where people sitting in the lobby waiting while their car is serviced will even ask him for advice, about cars, yes, but also about life in general. That is a true sign of trust and respect, and he is happy to chat, as he says his usual workweek is full of laughs and a real connection to people. His sincere interest is more than just having them in a safe-to-drive car. Andy’s passion for cars started very young while growing up in Smithtown. He would see neighbors working on cars and go to watch and ask questions. He was the kid hanging out at home taking apart transistor radios and rebuilding them. At only age 10, Andy built his own minibike. When neighbors were throwing away their broken lawnmowers, Andy would take them and get them running again. He tinkered with anything mechanical he could find, and by age 14 he had rebuilt his first engine. He read up on what he could, but much of learning was simply hands-on experience. Learning to isolate issues, he grew up believing that if “man made it, then man could fix it.” His persistence was simply that, knowing if he worked on it methodically, he could always figure it out. Somewhere in those young years, Andy just knew this would be his chosen field of work, but even more so, he also dreamed of owning his own shop. Owning his own business was always part of the plan.
This business essentially started in his driveway in Smithtown. He worked on cars there, and little by little, more people came to him for help. At one point, as he was getting older, he took a job at a car stereo place, but he found himself always being asked to work on the cars of his colleagues, so that pushed him to formalize the operation by setting up shop at the Bohemia location. And just like people finding him in his driveway, people continue to flock to Andy just based on hearing about him from someone else. Andy stated that he has never needed to advertise. People who went to him spoke highly of him, and his business grew by word of mouth alone. Andy takes great pride in his reputation. He has a few core beliefs that he feels carried him to his success. Most importantly, he treats the customers’ money as if it were his own. He tells each customer what must be done now, but also what they’ll need soon so they can plan ahead. Planning ahead also helps his customers to avoid their small issues from becoming larger ones. He is known for his honesty and his work ethic. Some may even refer to him as “5-star Andy” based on all of his stellar reviews. One woman couldn’t say enough; she came to Andy over 30 years ago because of a work neighbor who referred her to Andy. Andy told her he could certainly fix her car, but she shouldn’t have to pay him for it. He would help her get it back to the dealer and told her that it should be covered for free due to a recall. And it was. She was unaware of any recall and would never have known. Andy, in that one moment, earned a customer, her family, and their future company’s entire fleet, for life. Absolute Performance has, over the years, had become a family business. Both his sons, Michael and Andrew, have worked there, coming into their own under their dad’s tutelage. Michael has worked there in the past, and Andrew is there currently. Andrew, also entrepreneurial, has added additional value to the shop by offering car detailing services. Living on the Island, we can all appreciate how important our cars are to our everyday life. So, having a relationship with a mechanic you truly trust is invaluable. Absolute Performance can be reached at 631-563-9137. They handle all cars, foreign or domestic, and their favorites are older and classic cars.
This Week Today Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
National, State, and Local Temperature Checks By Matt Meduri National
State A House Democrat endorsed a Hudson Valley Republican, which has been seen as disrespect to Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D, NY-08) on his own turf. Congressman Jared Golden (D, ME02) endorsed Congressman Mike Lawler (R-Pearl River). Golden published his endorsement in an op-ed for The Journal News, a local paper based in Lawler’s Westchester-Rockland district. Lawler is generally seen as one of the most vulnerable Republicans in the House. He is one of three House Republicans who were re-elected in 2024 despite Kamala
Harris (D-CA0 winning those districts in the concurrent presidential race. Golden, arguably the most conservative House Democrat, is not running for re-election in his highly-competitive upstate Maine seat. Like Lawler, Golden represents a crossover seat, in that Trump won the district the same night it re-elected Golden. “He would rather pass a bill with the other party than score a point against it,” wrote Golden of Lawler. Golden praised Lawler’s support for small businesses, even those not in his own district. “Lobster traps, union rights and health insurance do not have much in common, except that on all three, Lawler chose to solve the problem rather than campaign on it,” said Golden. “We have real adversaries in this world, and they are not our fellow citizens. When candidates for office tell voters that the gravest danger to this country is other Americans and the leaders they elect, that is radical talk, and it is the same politics of fear I have refused to practice for my entire career.” Leader Jeffries decried the Maine iconoclast’s endorsement in a race crucial to Jeffries’ likely wielding of the Speaker’s gavel in January. “This smoke and mirrors ploy will do nothing to change the outcome of the race. The election will be decided by the people of Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley,” said Jeffries. In other state news, the gubernatorial debate between Governor Kathy Hochul (D-Hamburg) and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (R-Atlantic Beach) is set for October 13 at 7:00p.m. The televised debate, also the only debate for this race, will be aired on Spectrum News NY1 live from their Big Apple office. Local The Suffolk County Legislature honored volunteer firefighters for the month of September (pictured below). The select group represents thousands of first responders across Suffolk’s 228
fire departments. “With each fire or emergency, these volunteers demonstrate not only their technical training and proficiency but their caring and commitment for our communities, as these men and women respond every day, at all hours, to protect property and save lives,” said Presiding Officer Anthony Piccirillo (R-Holtsville). Piccirillo honored Jason Reimo, who has served with the Holbrook F.D. since joining the Juniors program in 1990. He became a fully-fledged member in 1995 and was assigned to Eagle Engine Company 2. In 2006, he was elected as Lieutenant and served as Captain of the Eagle Engine Company from 2008 to 2009. “After leaving the captain’s office, he remained active on the company training committee and was awarded the Fredrick Brace Training Award for 2010 and 2018. In 2023, he was installed as 2nd Assistant Chief and now serves as 1st Assistant Chief of the Department,” said Piccirillo. The ceremony’s host was Legislator Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue), who serves as the Chair of the Legislature’s Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services and Preparedness Committee. Thorne nominated Henry Rotermund, of the Medford Fire Department. Rotermund has also served as a first responder with Brookhaven Ambulance and South Country Ambulance. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) honored Eastport Fire Chief Virginia Massey-Haughn. Honorees include: Matthew Jakubowsky, Wading River F.D.; Rob Essay, Southampton; Michael Malone, Mastic; Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R-Medford), Medford; Robert Murphy, Setauket; the Yaphank Fire Department; Ken Bradbury, Deer Park; Brian Shea, East Islip; John Ippolito, Jr., East Islip; Daniel Madden, Nesconset; Angelo Sanzeri, Commack; Peter Daniele, West Babylon; Kevin Spillane, East Farmingdale; Stanley Sadowski, Greenlawn; Michael Palmo, Deer Park; and David Caputo, Greenlawn. Credit - Suffolk County Legislature
Tensions continue in the Middle East, as President Donald Trump (R-FL) threatened to “annihilate” the Iranian government at the UN General Assembly. Iran, on the other hand, has proposed a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the U.S. lifts its blockades and sanctions. U.S. sanctions on Iran include pressuring other countries to cut off economic lifelines for Tehran. Iraqi airports were notified to stop accessing Iranian aircraft on Tuesday to comply with U.S. sanctions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent (R-SC) has pledged to “shut down” all Iranian airlines worldwide as of Wednesday in what he and the administration view as a play to force Iran to make concessions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R-FL) has maintained American support for Saudi Arabia amid fighting with the Houthis, an Iranian proxy in Yemen that last week took control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait that connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. At the UN General Assembly, foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt have all pledged support for Saudi Arabia as the Houthis have been accused of attempting a drone attack near Mecca, the birthplace of and holiest city in Islam, although the Houthis have denied this. The ministers also stated their support for the legitimate Yemeni government, as well as an independent Palestine under the 1967 borders. High-profile congressional Republicans are publicly breaking with the president on key parts of his agenda while on the campaign trail. Congresswoman María Elvira Salzar (R, FL-27), who has represented a southern Miami district since 2021, aired an ad pushing back on the administration’s immigration enforcement. Some political observers see this as a canary in the coal mine for Republicans’ efforts to retain the gubernatorial and Senate seats up for grabs in November. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R, IA-02), who is running for the open Senate race in Iowa, also publicly broke with Trump over the Iran War. Two impeachment inquiries swirled around Capitol Hill this week, one of President Trump and the other of Department of Defense (War) Secretary Pete Hegseth (R-TN). Congressman Al Green (D, TX-09) saw his eighth floor vote-attempt since 2017 to impeach Trump failed this week in a 232147 vote of the House. Charges alleged by Green primarily consisted of the Trump Administration’s aggressive deportation agenda and a cover-up of civilian deaths therein. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D, NY08) led 46 Democrats to vote “Present,” along with Congressman Thomas Massie (R, KY-04). 213 Republicans were joined by 18 Democrats in halting the impeachment filing.
Jeffries and leading House Democrats said the investigative basis for impeachment had not been fulfilled, while House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R, MN-06) called the impeachment effort itself “political obstruction.” Meanwhile, Massie filed his own eight articles of impeachment against Secretary Hegseth for violating the War Powers Resolution of 1973 and carrying out unauthorized military strikes in Yemen, among other charges. Since Massie introduced the bill as a privileged measure, Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) decision to adjourn session one day early leaves the bill paused until the House reconvenes after Election Day. Massie, along with his top ally in the House, Congressman Ro Khanna (D, CA-17) have introduced the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, as they argue the Department of Justice is still withholding over 3 million unredacted files. The discharge petition has secured 218 signatures to force a House vote. Nearly all House Democrats signed. Nancy Mace (R, SC-01), Ralph Norman (R, SC05), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R, PA-01) are the only Republicans who signed the petition. A discharge petition is a parliamentary maneuver to force a vote on a piece of legislation without the blessing of House leadership. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) are the leading Senate sponsors. No vote will be taken on this until after Congress reconvenes after the elections. President Trump made a controversial decision this week to ban reporters from CNN, MSNOW, and Politico from the White House, labelling them “fake news.” The Department of Justice has defended the move in court filings, citing national security concerns. That has led to the White House press pool boycotting covering the president. That unprecedented coalition includes FOX News, ABC, CBS, NBC, NPR, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Reuters, and Getty Images. That has led to a blackout of legacy cable media coverage and the lack of audio/video infrastructure at the White House. Staffers have aired videos of the president during would-be typically press events, albeit with virtually no audio.
Brookhaven Matters
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Continued from front cover
This past Friday evening, several hundred people turned out to the Mastic Aquatic Center in Mastic Beach. This year specifically was not only an opportunity to get on the court and play against Panico, Presiding Officer Anthony Piccirillo (R-Holtsville), and Legislator Nick Caracappa (C-Selden), the kids and fans also had the chance to meet the guest of honor for this evening, Walt “Clyde” Frazier. Frazier was a central part of the New York Knicks team and helped lead the team to NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. He’s also a seven-time NBA All-Star while being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987. Walt has kept his connection to generations of basketball fans through his longtime career as a Knicks broadcaster. “To be able to bring someone like Walt here and watch him inspire another generation of kids was incredibly meaningful to me,” said Supervisor Panico. After the basketball tournament, Frazier took the microphone to speak to the youth in attendance. He motivated them to stay in school, cultivate discipline, and hard work towards their education and sports careers. Frazier reiterated that he also came from a place of humble beginnings with not many
opportunities available, but by hard work and focus, carved a way to being a professional basketball player. This event attracted not only local teenagers ready to play basketball, but it also brought in lifelong New York Knick fans to meet Walt “Clyde” Frazier. Another guest of honor was in attendance Friday evening, Keith Caputo of “Helping Makes You Happy” in Center Moriches. Keith and his mother Cassy got a chance to meet with Frazier, take a few photos, and share with him their impactful organization. This was a special evening on so many levels. “Walt Frazier is a New York legend, but what impressed me most was the man himself,” said Supervisor Panico. “He was incredibly gracious with everyone, especially the kids, taking the time to speak with them, sign autographs and take countless photos. I grew up in the William Floyd community, went to school here and know firsthand how much this community gives its young people. To be able to bring someone like Walt here and watch him inspire another generation of kids was incredibly meaningful to me. This event was about more than basketball. It was about community, opportunity and giving these kids a memory that I hope stays with them for a very long time.”
Legislator Collects 12,000 Pull-Ups for Vets’ Awareness By Matt Meduri 22 is generally seen as the average number of Veterans who succumb to suicide every year. For Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (C-Rocky Point), a Purple Heart Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel and current Reservist, every September 22 is another opportunity to raise awareness to such a critical issue. Last year, Lennon walked the 66 miles from Orient Point to Hauppauge, with the Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance (SAR) Flag on his shoulder to raise at Armed Forced Plaza at the County Center. Last year, Lennon got a bill passed making Suffolk County the first county in the nation to officially recognize the SAR Flag. That’s owing significantly to Suffolk’s Veteran population, which is the largest of any county in New York and the second-largest anywhere in the country behind San Diego. The SAR Flag was designed by Kevin Hertell, of Melville. Lennon’s physically demanding challenges revolve around the number 22. This year, Lennon posed the challenge of doing 2,222 pull-ups, inviting stakeholders and passersby to join in. The event was held at Heritage Park in Mount Sinai, where Lennon stayed overnight in a sleeping bag to ensure the goal was met. The goal was not only surpassed; it was entirely shattered. The 23-hour challenge saw more than 12,000 pull-ups performed. The Suffolk County Corrections Emergency Response Unit collectively completed 2,237 on their own. A group from Red Woods Fitness contributed 1,741 pull-ups. The North Shore Youth Council, Cornell Cooperative Extension, the Suffolk County Farm, and the County’s various law enforcement cohorts all contributed. Newsday and News 12 each contributed 15; The Messenger did 20. “The point is the symbolism of coming together. We don’t want anyone going through life alone, and we don’t need anyone to do 2,222 pull-ups alone. It takes a community,” Lennon told The Messenger. “It takes a number of people to come together. For government, it takes all levels of government to come together to support Veterans.” Lennon said that throughout the day, kids enjoying Heritage Park stopped by the contribute to the cause, along with teenagers, gymnastics club, and a variety of demographics. For the broader issue on Veteran suicides, Lennon says that recent studies
show good momentum in Suffolk towards combatting the issue. “That means, just put your foot on the accelerator even more,” said Lennon. He’s working to gather the State, County, and Town of Brookhaven to work more cohesively on this issue. In terms of progress made from such collaboration, Lennon cited a State bill that allows 100% disabled Veterans to claim a 100% deduction on their property taxes. The municipalities must opt into that program, as Brookhaven has. The Miller Place School District has also adopted it. Lennon is lobbying the Rocky Point School District to do the same. At the challenge’s end on Sunday, the County held its SAR Flag ceremony. “On Sunday, we gathered to honor the service and remember the life of a local Marine: Lance Corporal Filipe Feitor Runa DaSilva. We came together in this military style ceremony to say his name; and to thank him, and his family, for their service to our country,” said Kevin Hertell, designer of the flag who has lost Veterans in his family to suicide. “Our S.A.R. Remembrance Ceremonies are the primary way in which we break the stigma of mental health, suicide, and seeking treatment within our warrior culture to facilitate suicide prevention for our Veterans and Military. We create community to facilitate prevention. We honor. We remember. We will end Veteran and military suicide together.” “We work every day to tell our veterans that they are not alone in their fight against mental health challenges. Our Veterans Services Agency can connect you with resources and communities where you can find the support and education you need,” said County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches). “The battle is not over.”
Credit - Matt Meduri
Annual 3-on-3 Basketball Night Brings Community Together
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
From Orchard to Holiday Table: Three Delicious Ways to Celebrate LI Apples By Nancy Vallarella Earlier this month, we went to the orchard. This month, we’re heading to the kitchen. Apple season may begin with a trip to one of Long Island’s local farms but bringing home that bag of freshly picked apples is only the beginning. With Thanksgiving and the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to put our local harvest to work. Apple pie will always have a place on the holiday table, but there are so many other delicious possibilities. I’ve chosen three recipes that take the humble apple from a casual fall morning to an Old-World afternoon treat and, finally, an elegant holiday dessert: Baked Apple Cinnamon Donuts, German Apple Cake with Sour Cream, and an Apple Frangipane Tart. The secret is choosing the right apple for the job.
Holiday Morning: Baked Apple Cinnamon Donuts
There is something about the smell of apples and cinnamon that immediately says fall. Add a cup of coffee or warm cider and you have a pretty perfect October morning. These baked donuts capture much of what we love about the cider donuts we bring home from the farm stand but freshly made apple sauce goes right into the batter. Baking rather than frying also makes them easy to prepare at home. Macoun and Cortland are my picks here. Macoun brings wonderful fragrance and sweetness, while Cortland has a slight tartness that works beautifully with cinnamon.
3/4 cup milk 1 Tbs pure vanilla extract For the topping: 4 Tbs unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or pie spice o 1. Preheat the oven to 400 . Grease two donut pans with butter or baking spray. Set aside. 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, apple pie spice, and salt until combined. Set aside. 3. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, olive oil, milk, and vanilla until smooth and combined. 4. Fold the applesauce mixture into the dry ingredients, until just mixed and no streaks of flour remain. 5. Transfer the batter to a large piping bag (or a Ziploc bag), snip off the corner, and pipe the batter into the donut pans. Each donut mold can be filled by half for a modest donut. Just about to the top for a mega donut. 6. Bake until golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center of each donut comes out clean, for about 10-12 minutes. 7. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a baking rack to cool. 8. When the donuts are cool enough to handle (15 minutes or so), add the melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture to two small shallow bowls. 9. Dip each donut in the melted butter followed by the sugar topping until wellcoated. LIL Tip: Save the cinnamon-sugar coating until shortly before serving so the outside stays beautifully textured. For homemade apple sauce – use 3 small or 2 large McIntosh, Macoun, Cortland or Mutsu apples peeled and small diced. Add 1/4 cup water over medium heat. Simmer until soft and mash with a potato masher. Add water if needed.
Old-World Comfort: German Apple Cake with Sour Cream
Baked Apple Cinnamon Donuts Ingredients (Makes 12): For the donuts: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1-1/2 tsp apple pie spice 1/2 tsp Kosher salt 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce* 1/4 cup olive oil
The next recipe takes our Long Island apples on a little trip to Germany. German Apfelkuchen comes in many forms, but this version combines a tender pastry base, layers of sliced apples and a creamy sour-cream custard. It isn’t overly sweet, allowing the apples to remain the star. This is the cake I envision sitting on the kitchen table when friends or family stop by during the holidays. Put on a pot of coffee, dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar and let everyone help themselves. Ingredients (Serves 10–12): For the pastry 1.5 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract For the apples 4 medium apples 1 Tbs fresh lemon juice 2 Tbs granulated sugar 1 tsp cinnamon For the sour cream topping 1.5 cup sour cream 2 large eggs 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 Tbs all-purpose flour Pinch of salt Confectioners’ sugar for serving Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9-inch springform pan. 1. Combine flour, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then gradually incorporate the flour mixture to form a soft dough. 2. Press the dough across the bottom and approximately one inch up the sides of the prepared pan. 3. Peel, core and thinly slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon and arrange them in overlapping layers over the pastry. 4. Whisk together sour cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, flour, and salt until smooth. Pour over the apples. 5. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the apples are tender and the sour-cream layer is set and lightly golden. Cool completely and refrigerate for at least two hours before removing the spring form ring. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving. LIL Apple Pick: Try Cortland, Empire or Mutsu—or mix two varieties. Combining a sweeter apple with a tart one gives the cake much more interesting flavor. Better yet, make this one the day before. It slices beautifully after an overnight rest in the refrigerator.
The Holiday Showstopper: Apple Frangipane Tart Now it’s time to dress up our apples. Frangipane sounds complicated, but don’t let the French name intimidate you. It’s essentially a rich almond filling made with butter, sugar, egg and ground almonds. Add a buttery pastry crust and carefully arranged slices of local apple, and something wonderful happens in the oven. The almond filling puffs around the fruit while the apple edges become tender and golden. This is the dessert I’d bring to the Thanksgiving table. Ingredients (Serves 8–10): For the pastry 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1/4 tsp salt 8 tsp unsalted butter, softened 1 large egg yolk 1–2 tsp cold water, if needed For the frangipane 6 Tbs unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 cup almond flour 1 Tbs all-purpose flour 1 large egg 1/2 tsp almond extract Pinch of salt For the apples 2–3 firm apples 1 tsp fresh lemon juice 1 Tbs granulated sugar 2 Tbs apricot preserves 1 tsp water Preheat oven to 375°F. 1. Combine flour, confectioners’ sugar and salt. Work in the butter and egg yolk until a soft pastry forms, adding a teaspoon or two of cold water only if needed. 2. Press into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Refrigerate for 20 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, beat butter and sugar until light. Add almond flour, flour, egg, almond extract and salt and mix until smooth. 4. Spread the frangipane evenly over the chilled crust. 5. Core the apples and slice very thinly. Toss gently with lemon juice and arrange the slices in overlapping circles over the frangipane. Sprinkle lightly with sugar. 6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the frangipane is puffed and golden and the apples are tender. 7. Warm the apricot preserves with one teaspoon of water and brush over the warm apples. That simple glaze gives the tart its beautiful pastry-shop shine. LIL Apple Pick: Cortland or Mutsu. Both have enough structure to hold their shape, while their slight acidity balances the rich almond filling.
Make Room for the Apple Created by Nancy Vallarella, who brings farm-fresh recipes and local food knowledge to Long Island through farmers’ markets, demos, and more. For more recipes or to connect: DM @lilocavore495 on Instagram or email lilocavore495@gmail.com
Pumpkin gets plenty of attention this time of year, but before it takes over every coffee, muffin and holiday dessert, let’s make some room for New York’s state fruit. Buy an extra bag of local apples now. Store them unwashed in the refrigerator, where the cool temperature will help preserve their
crispness far longer than the fruit bowl on your counter. Then put them to work. Bake cinnamon apple donuts for a leisurely Sunday breakfast. Make the German apple cake a day before family arrives and serve it with afternoon coffee. And when it’s your turn to bring dessert to Thanksgiving, walk in carrying
that glossy apple frangipane tart. Sometimes eating locally doesn’t require reinventing what we cook. It simply means looking at what’s growing around us and giving it a place at the table. Pick local. Cook seasonally. And this holiday season, save a little room for the apple.
Credit - Nancy Vallarella
Long Island Locavore
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School Highlights Thursday, September 24, 2026
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Miller Place H.S. Virtual Enterprise Students Are Top 10% in Nation Some of Miller Place High School’s Virtual Enterprise students are celebrating a national achievement after their student-run firm, RetroBites, earned a spot in the top 10 percent nationwide in the 2026 Virtual Enterprises (VE) National Newsletter Competition. Representing the VE New York State region, RetroBites was recognized for its strong business strategy, creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial skills during the nationwide evaluation. The national competition is open to participating Virtual Enterprise firms from across the United States that choose to submit their work for consideration, but only 17 schools earned top 10 percent recognition in this particular competition. “RetroBites’ national recognition is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the students’ creativity, teamwork, and dedication,” said Thomas Fank, Miller Place High School Business Education Teacher and Virtual Enterprise Facilitator. “I am incredibly proud of the work they put into building their business and representing Miller Place on the national stage.” Throughout the process, students gained hands-on experience in the many facets of running a business, from developing a brand and managing finances to creating products, overseeing human resources, and building a marketing strategy. RetroBites was created as a virtual business simulation by Miller Place High School’s Period 3 VE class during the 2025-26 school year. The company developed a throwback-style food and beverage concept inspired by classic arcades and diners, offering nostalgic snacks and discontinued food and drink products designed to bring together the flavors and experiences of the past and present. The students’ main mission was to recreate the happiness and comfort associated with classic foods while developing the skills necessary to operate a successful business. Throughout the school year, students gained hands-on experience in the many facets of running a business, from developing a brand and managing finances to creating products, overseeing human resources, and building a marketing strategy. The team proudly added its national recognition certificate that it received this month to the “VE Wall of Fame” in Room 240, where higher achievements are displayed to recognize the accomplishments of Virtual Enterprise students for years to come. The Miller Place School District congratulates the RetroBites leadership and business team, which includes: Nick Russo, Chief Executive Officer; Charlotte Davidson, Chief Financial Officer; Josh Mcdonald, Chief Operating Officer; Marc Lindemann, Chief Marketing Officer; Peyton Anderson, Chief of Design; Keira Felser, Chief of H.R.; Jordel Vigfusson, Accounts Payable; Ava Ficarola, Inventory Specialist; R.J. Rau, Accounts Receivable; Christopher Di Gennaro, Payroll Manager; Brett Winslow, Marketing Manager 1; Luke Angelo, Marketing Manager 2; Dena Lehmann, Product Manager; Erik Eichler, Sales Manager 1; John Chiaramonte, Sales Manager 2; John Scarfogliero, Sales Manager 3; Jacob Marcario, Sales Manager 4; Paige Reitan, Website/Social Media Manager; Elissa Feldman, Graphic Designer; Kayla McDonnell, Graphic Designer; Dominick Blandi, H.R. Manager; Nicolas Freire, H.R. Manager. For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.
Wading River School Brings History to Life for Constitution Day
Wading River School students and staff brought history to life on September 17 in celebration of Constitution Day, stepping into the shoes of some of the people and symbols who helped shape the United States. Students and staff were invited to dress as someone who helped form America or someone who has made an impact on U.S. history. The halls were filled with familiar faces from the past, including Teddy Roosevelt, Betsy Ross, George Washington, Lady Liberty, and Rosie the Riveter. Principal Mr. Parrinello
joined in the celebration, dressed as Abraham Lincoln. Other students wore red, white and blue, creating a patriotic atmosphere throughout the school. The celebration also encouraged students to look beyond the costumes and learn more about the historical figures they represented. Students were given the opportunity to also write about the person or character they dressed as and share what they learned with their classmates.
Bayport-Blue Point Named NYSPHSAA School of Excellence Bayport-Blue Point High School has been named a 2025-26 School of Excellence by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, recognizing the academic success of its student-athletes. The annual distinction celebrates schools whose varsity athletic programs demonstrate strong achievement in the classroom. Bayport-Blue Point was among just 40 Long Island high schools to receive the School of Excellence designation this year. This designation requires at least 75% of a school’s varsity teams earn the association’s Scholar-Athlete Team Award. For a team to earn the award, the average grade-point average of the top 75% of its roster must be at least 90%. “While we take tremendous pride in the accomplishments of our student-athletes on the playing field, we are equally proud, if not more so, of their commitment to excellence in the classroom,” Director of Physical Education, Health and Interscholastic Sports Tim Mullins said. “The Bayport-Blue Point Athletics Department believes that true success is measured not only by championships and athletic achievement, but by the dedication our student-athletes demonstrate to their education and their future. Being recognized by the NYSPHSAA among the top high schools for the 2025–2026 school year, and earning the designation of a School of Excellence, is a tremendous honor. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, perseverance and commitment of our student-athletes, as well as the coaches and teachers who continually support, challenge and inspire them. It reflects the strength of our entire school community and our shared belief that excellence in athletics and excellence in academics go hand-in-hand.”
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
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Longwood Receives NYSSBA Culture of Caring Recognition for Robotics Program
The New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) has presented the Longwood Central School District with its Culture of Caring recognition, honoring the care and thoughtfulness shown by the Board of Education, administration, teachers, staff and students in establishing the RoboLions Unified Robotics team at Longwood High School. Catherine Romano, Area 12 Director for the NYSSBA Board of Directors, formally presented the recognition at the Board of Education’s September 10 meeting. The Culture of Caring recognition celebrates the meaningful, often unseen work happening inside school districts that strengthens their culture and community. In Longwood’s case, that work is a unified robotics team where students with all different abilities build side-by-side. The RoboLions’ Unified Robotics program pairs students with varying abilities
as teammates in a hands-on engineering environment. Together, they design and build fully functional adaptive robots using real tools and real processes, including a robot that allows students of all abilities to shoot a basketball. Ms. Romano noted that the program extends the inclusive spirit of unified sports into an academic and extracurricular setting, where students learn from one another and build something their peers can use for years to come. “The Unified Robotics Team presents an opportunity to solve for both sets of students,” said Ms. Romano. “Life will always bring challenges. Overcoming them is a team effort.” The recognition traces back to a Newsday feature story published in April 2026, which spotlighted the program’s student-led origins and its impact on the school community. The certificate, signed by NYSSBA President Christine Schnars and Executive Director Robert S. Schneider, commends the district’s “contribution to a positive district and community culture.” The RoboLions compete in FIRST Robotics, where the team has been recognized with the Impact Award in 2025 and the Gracious Professionalism Award in 2026, an honor that reflects the teamwork, respect and character the program is built on. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lance Lohman praised the team’s approach. “You guys are not looking for recognition,” he told the students. “You see a need, you fill it. That is what Longwood represents.” The program was built and led by students and is guided by coaches John Hirdt and Jennifer Stehle. Board members also thanked the parents, families and mentors whose time makes the program possible. The Culture of Caring recognition will be displayed prominently within the district. For more information, visit www.longwood.k12.ny.us.
Frank J. Carasiti Students Make Their Mark Students at Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School celebrated creativity, connection and collaboration the week of September 15 with International Dot Day. During art classes with Ms. Gaudioso, students in kindergarten, first grade and second grade read “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds, a story that encourages children to embrace their creativity, take chances and see where their ideas can lead. Inspired by the book’s message, “Just make a mark and see where it takes you,” students created their own original art projects that are displayed throughout the school, allowing the school community to see the many ways a simple dot can inspire something bigger. International Dot Day gave students an opportunity to celebrate their individuality while also contributing to a collective display of creativity throughout the building. The celebration served as a reminder that every student has the ability to create, collaborate and make a mark on the world.
Shark Spirit Takes Over at Eastport-South Manor Homecoming
The Eastport-South Manor Central School District was filled with Shark pride as students, staff, families and community members came together to celebrate homecoming on September 19. The excitement kicked off on September 18, with a spirited pep rally in the high school gymnasium. Students gathered to cheer on the Sharks as the fall season sports teams were introduced. The celebration continued Friday evening with a community bonfire, bringing students, families and community members together ahead of Saturday’s big game. On September 19, the ESM Sharks faced off against the Rocky Point Eagles in front of packed stands filled with supporters cheering on the home team.
The ESM Marching Band helped set the tone for the afternoon with a performance of the national anthem, while New York State Sen. Dean Murray joined the festivities and helped with the ceremonial coin toss. The Shark spirit continued throughout halftime with performances by the ESM marching band and color guard, the Sharkette dance team and the cheerleading squad. Student performers brought energy and enthusiasm to the field, keeping the crowd engaged and celebrating the school community. From the pep rally and community bonfire to the packed stands and halftime performances, ESM homecoming was a celebration of school spirit, community and Shark pride despite their loss to Rocky Point.
Civics 101
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
The Necessary Standard for American Education The Constitution - Article I, Part 2
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
This column will seek to address the long-forgotten concept of civics and how it relates to American government in general, from the federal level to the local level. This column will explore Constitutional rights, the inner workings of government, the electoral process, and the obligations and privileges of citizens.
By Matt Meduri In our quest to explain the Constitution line by line, we’re wrapping up Article I this week to discuss the last two sections. Section 9 Section 9, Clause 1: Also known as the Slave Trade Clause, Congress was barred from taking any action to stop the importation of slaves into the country until 1808. However, Congress was allowed to place a tax on the imports at no more than $10 per person. This was part of a broader strategy to gradually phase out slavery while keeping the South from seceding before the nation was fully formed. Once the clause expired in 1808, Congress immediately passed a bill to ban the import of new slaves. Clause 1 is now one of the only inactive clauses in the Constitution. Section 9, Clause 2: The writ of Habeas Corpus is not to be suspended, unless when cases of rebellion or invasion require it. Habeas Corpus, literally meaning “you have the body” in Latin, is a legal order that requires the government to bring a detained person before a judge prior to a sentencing. This acts as a failsafe against arbitrary or illegal detention by the federal government, and it requires the judge to give a legal and valid reason for holding the detainee. Interesting Note: Habeas Corpus has only been suspended four times in history. The first was under Lincoln during the Civil War to detain Confederate sympathizers. This is the only instance in which suspension of Habeas Corpus applied nationwide, and is generally regarded as one of Lincoln’s most controversial decisions. President Ulysses S. Grant (R-OH) did the same in 1871 in South Carolina to suppress violence by the Ku Klux Klan. President Theodore Roosevelt (R-NY) applied this to the thenU.S. territory of the Philippines to quell insurrections during the Philippine-American War. The most recent use was in 1941, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt (D-NY) declared martial law in the Territory of Hawaii following the Pearl Harbor attack. Section 9, Clause 3: Prevents legislative acts that assign guilt and punishment without a trial. Congress cannot act as a judge and jury; only the courts can. This is called a Bill of Attainder. In the same clause, there is the Ex Post Facto law, which states that a punishment can only be levied against an action in accordance with laws on the books at the time the act is committed. A punishment cannot be levied or increased on someone who commits an act before that act is criminalized. Section 9, Clause 4: Known as the Direct Tax Clause, this clause requires that any direct taxes must be apportioned among the states based on their population. It prevents the government from setting a flat national tax rate; the financial burden must match the Census. Interesting Note: In 1895, the Supreme Court ruled that a federal income tax was a “direct tax” and would be unconstitutional. To solve the problem, the states ratified the Sixteenth Amendment in 1913. The amendment gives Congress the power to levy and collect income taxes from any source “without apportionment
among the several states, and without regard to any census or enumeration.” Section 9, Clause 5: The federal government cannot tax American-made products as they leave the country. This ensures Congress cannot favor one state or region over another. This clause stems from a compromise between the antebellum North and South. The South feared that their cash crops, such as tobacco, would be taxed to benefit the North. Section 9, Clause 6: Congress cannot favor the ports of one state over another and it cannot force vessels traveling from one state to pay duties in another state. Section 9, Clause 7: The federal government cannot withdraw money from the Treasury unless such appropriations are approved by Congress. The federal government must also periodically publish accounting records on such transactions. Interesting Note: This clause is the foundation of Congress’ label of “power of the purse.” Section 9, Clause 8: The United States cannot grant titles of nobility to its citizens. No person holding federal office can, unless approved by Congress, accept any title of nobility and gifts from foreign states. Interesting Note: Benjamin Franklin foresaw a republic that could be influenced by wealthy outsiders. Congress is supposed to act as a checkpoint for foreign gifts and titles. Moreover, while American citizens can receive titles of nobility, they cannot use the titles as it violates this clause the Nobility Clause. Congress has never approved a foreign title of nobility for a federal official. The 11th Congress sought a full ban on foreign nobility titles and an automatic loss of citizenship for anyone who accepts them. The resulting proposed constitutional amendment passed both chambers of Congress but came up just two states short of ratification. Since Congress never set an expiration date on that amendment, the states can technically still take action on it. Some gifts to U.S. leaders, particularly the president, are seen as gestures from foreign leaders. Through the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act, Congress has advance consent for officials to keep “minimal value” gifts from foreign officials. The current limit is $525. “High-value gifts,” however, can be accepted by the official being given the gift
so as to not hurt diplomatic relations, but those gifts are immediately seized by the government. Expensive gifts are logged and stored in the National Archives and Records Administration, or the official to whom a high-value gift is given can buy the gift from the U.S. government at the full fair market value. Section 10 Section 10, Clause 1: This clause prevents the states from taking certain actions that the federal government is also prevented from taking. States cannot enter into treaties, alliances, or confederations, they cannot deputize citizens to fight on behalf of the government as a naval fleet or militia (Marque and Reprisal), they cannot mint currency, they cannot grant titles of nobility, and they cannot pass Bills of Attainder or Ex Post Facto laws. Section 10, Clause 2: States cannot impose taxes (duties) on imports or exports without permission from Congress, but they are allowed to charge what is “absolutely necessary” for inspecting goods at ports and borders - usually processing fees. Any extra funds from those charges go straight to the U.S. Treasury. Clause 2 also gives Congress final say on state inspection laws. This clause exists to prevent the states from acting how they did under the Articles of Confederation, the first version of the Constitution that was replaced by the present version in 1789. In that time, states acted more like independent nations. Goods were taxed when they were traveling between states as well, and tariffs were often high so the states could generate revenue. This created economic tensions that necessitated a unified trade prerogative set by the federal government. Section 10, Clause 3: States cannot tax ships based on their size or capacity - “tonnage” - without Congress’ approval. States cannot make alliances with other states or foreign countries without getting Congress’ approval. States cannot declare war or engage war unless they are being invaded and Congress does not have time to act. Finally, states cannot keep standing armies or navies during peace time without congressional approval. The last item does not apply to the National Guard; rather, permanent dedicated state militaries.
Candidate Spotlight Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
Assemblyman Doug Smith By Matt Meduri Assemblyman Doug Smith is running for a fourth full term in the Assembly representing a Brookhaven-Islip district. His opponent, Victoria Russell (D-Holbrook), is not actively campaigning. Assemblyman Smith sat down with The Messenger for this candidate spotlight interview.
Residence: Holbrook ffice: New York State Assembly, O District Five (AD-05) First Elected: 2018 (special election), re-elected 2020, 2022, 2024
Credit - NYS Assembly
Q: What is the state of the State in your view? A: Not good. While Democrats in Albany are talking about Washington being one-party rule, I would say, look no further than the one-party rule they have in Albany. Democrats have increased the spending in the last seven years by $100 billion. That’s unsustainable. We spend more per capita than any other state in the country. California, which has twice the population New York has, spends just a little bit more than New York spends. If California, which has almost twice as many people, can do it at the same cost as New York, then what is New York doing? These high taxes relate directly to the cost of electricity with the mandates that have come down. I would like to see a pause on the gas tax. Winter’s coming and a lot of my constituents still heat their homes with oil or natural gas; those prices are very high. The State isn’t prepared for that. The governor has done more to blame Trump than do anything to fix that. Not every good idea merits taxpayer funding, much less the bad ones. A good example is funding cuts to ECLI-VIBES, an advocacy group for victims of domestic violence. There have been a number of similar agencies that have popped up, and the State decided to cut funding from long-standing organizations like VIBES, who have served the community for 50 years, and instead spread the funding around. There’s certainly a need for crime victim services now more than ever. Crime is increasing because Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul are deciding not to prosecute crimes. The statistics they’re showing don’t mean crime has gone down. I was proud to vote against the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), because we knew that that was going to lead to higher energy costs and taxes. I’m happy to see the governor is looking towards nuclear energy Upstate and that they’re looking at the Williams pipeline that was shut down. We need an all-of-the-above approach to energy. I sat on the Energy Committee for 6 years and every year, the committee had to come back to pass legislation to fix the prior year’s legislation. New York is tampering with a free-market economy when it comes to energy and it’s making things worse. Q: What are some accomplishments over the last two years for AD-05? A: A big thing we’ve done in the last two years is fund all-inclusive playgrounds. We got the County, the Town, and the State to partner in taking down an old administrative building in the Sachem Central School District in downtown Holbrook. It’s something that’s been a long time coming; we can preserve that green space for a park. Sewers are also coming to Holbrook, which is a huge deal. That brings opportunities and options. I’m happy that the Lake Keeper for Lake Ronkonkoma has been appointed and that we can take the Lake more seriously, even though Suffolk County gets $0 from the State’s Environmental Bond Act. We’ve also gotten grant funding for fire departments to upgrade their systems and funds for the Middle Country School District. We’ve also been at the table for the growth of MacArthur Airport (ISP). The MacArthur Business Alliance (MBA) just released their economic impact statement and I’m determined to help grow that local economy. Q: What have been some of your statewide prerogatives these last two years? A: Education policy. I was actually happy that the Board of Regents just eliminated the mandatory Regents exam requirement. It’s something I had been pushing for years. I have experience in the classroom since I was a teacher before my time in the Assembly. Before 2012, State schools had an option of a general diploma and a Regents diploma; they had a career track and an education track. In 2012, the State eliminated the general diploma and stuck with the Regent’s diploma. Students were then required to pass a minimum number of Regent’s exams, which sounds good on paper, but what happens in reality is that 11th- and 12thgraders end up taking algebra for the second or third time and still have a difficult time with the material. They could have been sitting in a BOCES program that they enjoy or doing something they’re good at.
Candidate: Assemblyman Doug Smith
Committees: Aging, Education (Ranking Member), Higher Education, Judiciary, Mental Health, Rules; Commission on Future of the Long Island Power Authority Party Lines: Republican, Conservative
A: I think we need to remember that our party represents everyone, that our platform is public safety and affordability. As the Islip Town Republican Chairman, I ensure that our candidates reflect the communities they want to serve. I grew up here, I know the challenges in this community because I actually live here. Many people call for a stronger Suburban Caucus. I think we have one already. It’s the Republican Party. In January, we’re likely to have an Assembly with 13 DSA members. The Republicans have 47 members in the Assembly. The regular Democrats standing with the Republicans can absolutely govern together, but the DSAs have the loudest voices and the pressure on their party’s moderates. I wish there were more sensible members in the Democratic Party standing up to them. I need to work with legislators who are more afraid of the people they represent than the extremes in their own party. Q: What is your favorite quote, motto, or work ethic? A: “There’s no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.” Q: How do you like to connect with your community and what do you do in your spare time? A: If you want to get to know the people in my district, go to Costco on a Saturday. That’s one of the top places people in my district stop me to let me know what’s going on. It’s like a town square on its own. And Kathy Hochul could take a lesson from Costco on fiscal responsibility; the hot dog hasn’t changed in price in years. In my spare time, I love being in the pool and reading books with my daughter Sophie.
In my opinion, we were robbing the students of opportunity. The State, in its infinite wisdom, had seniors taking two classes of math, two classes of social studies, two classes of English. Their schedule was full of classes that not only didn’t interest them, but made them feel stupid. My dad was one of those students. He was not a strong student, but a master mechanic. By allowing multiple pathways to graduation, it’s going to put the State in a better position. It’s no secret that not every kid is a mathematical genius, so to have algebra Regents exams with lower standards to make it easier for every kid, it holds everyone back. A lot of politicians disagree with me on this, but politicians are how we got into this mess in the first place. Starting next school year, there will be multiple pathways to graduation and get back to education and career tracks. There will still be proficiency guidelines from the State; there should be a minimum of education required. I also got a bill passed that requires schools and libraries to carry NARCAN on site at all times. I also helped draft a bill to require some type of formal training for school security guards, more to adjust these guards, many retired police officers, to a school setting with children, especially in a crisis situation. Q: Where do you fit into a time when both parties are reforming their identities? A: I’ve always been prepared to work with the governor if she’s prepared to identify where she stands on these The Messenger thanks Assemblyman Smith for this time things because this governor changes her position for this interview. on things depending on who’s listening, and I find it incredibly frustrating. When she was in Congress, she was About the Fifth District a conservative Democrat who was endorsed by the NRA. The Fifth District is split between the Towns of Now, she’s holding tight to someone who’s a self-proclaimed Brookhaven and Islip, containing the communities socialist in NYC and sending money to bail out NYC. of Lake Grove, Holbrook, and parts of Bohemia, She’s served in local government before, so she knows the Centereach, Coram, Farmingville, Holbrook, Holtsville, mandates that the State has placed on local governments. Islandia, Lake Ronkonkoma, Medford, North Patchogue, But when she becomes Governor, it’s like her whole prior Ronkonkoma, and Selden. history has disappeared. She publicly supported law as amended by the Act of March 3, 1933 PUBLIC NOTICE enforcement when she was embodied in Section 537. Postal Laws STATEMENT OF lieutenant governor; now, and Regulations to wit: That the name she’s preventing ICE from OWNERSHIP and address of the Publisher is Diane being able to work with local law enforcement. Statement required by the Act of Caudullo of Centereach, New York. That The Kathy Hochul who August 24. 1912, as Amended by the Acts the officer of the corporation President held up the budget to get of March 3,1933, and July 2, 1946 (Title James Cotgreave of Smithtown, New reforms on crazy energy 39, United States Code, Section 233) York; that the average number of copies policy? That’s a Kathy Hochul showing the ownership, management, sold or distributed through the mails or I can work with. I’m happy and circulation of the The Brookhaven otherwise each week to paid subscribers she’s rolling back some of Messenger published weekly at during the twelve months preceding the her previous positions, but date shown above is 1087 paid mailed Ronkonkoma, New York, for the fifty-two I wish she’d be a little more weeks ending September 17, 2026. Diane subscriptions and 0 sales through dealers, upfront about it. Many Caudullo deposes and says that she is carriers, street vendors, counter sales for people, even Republicans, the publisher and Matt Meduri is editor a total of 1087. Free distribution outside rallied by Andrew Cuomo of the The Brookhaven Messenger the mail is 688 for a total distribution of during COVID. She could have and that the following is to the best of his 1,775. I certify that the statements made that same support, but she knowledge and belief, a true statement of by me above are correct and complete. doesn’t. the circulation of the aforesaid publication Q: Where does the Publisher Assembly GOP caucus for the date shown in the above caption, Diane Caudullo improve its strategy? required by the Act of August 24, 1912,
9/24/2026
Theatre & the Arts
18 16
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Dear Engeman Theater:
You Deserved that Standing Ovation for
‘Dear Evan Hansen’
Credit - John W. Engeman Theater
By Cindi Sansone-Braff The John W. Engeman Theater opened its 2026-2027 Season with a bang, presenting “Dear Evan Hansen,” a Tony Award-winning musical. Let me take a moment to list the 2017 Tony Awards this not-to-be-missed musical received: a whopping six, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Original Score, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Featured Actress, and Best Orchestrations. Written by Steven Levenson, with music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, “Dear Evan Hansen” premiered in 2015 at the Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. In 2016, it was produced OffBroadway at Second Stage Theatre before opening on Broadway at the
Music Box Theatre in December 2016, where it ran for 1,678 performances before closing in September 2022. People often claim that being young, being a teenager, is the best time of life, but for anyone who has ever been a teenager and especially for anyone who has ever raised one, you know that statement is surely one for the book of “Old Wives’ Tales!” What makes this show so compelling is that it doesn’t shy away from hot topics like suicide, mental illness, loss, drug abuse, social anxiety, the impact of social media, family dysfunction, alienation, bullying, peer pressure, and the toll these issues take on individuals, families, and society at large. Brilliantly directed by Scott Weinstein, this stellar cast brought their energy, strong acting and vocal skills, and passion for perfection to this mustsee production. Joe Serafini delivered an awardworthy performance as Evan Hansen, a socially anxious high school senior and only child who struggles to connect with his classmates and his mother. He feels like an outsider, always on the sidelines, while everyone else seems to know how to fit in and enjoy life. Serafini showcased his vocals throughout the show, delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Waving Through a Window,” an
emotional pop-rock anthem in which he expresses his sense of isolation and invisibility as the other cast members rush past him, oblivious to his plight. Christina DeCicco was captivating as Heidi Hansen, Evan’s single, devoted, hardworking mother, who loves her son deeply yet is plagued by unrelenting guilt and fears she has somehow failed him. One of the show’s highlights was DeCicco’s spellbinding performance
of the gut-wrenching ballad “So Big/So Small.” Danny Meglio was perfectly cast as Jared Kleinman, Evan’s not-so-friendly friend and accomplice, who brings muchneeded comic relief to the story. Jared has the heart of a mercenary, has mastered the art of gallows humor, and has a mind that moves at the speed of AI, always
calculating, “What’s in it for me?” Jimmy Schumacher delivered a spot-on portrayal of Connor Murphy, a troubled, defiant, disliked, out-of-control teenager known for bullying others and abusing drugs. A round of applause goes to Robin Levine, who choreographed “Sincerely Me,” a darkly comedic, ultrafast-paced pop-rock number featuring Evan, Jared, and Connor. Aquila Sol aced the role of Zoe Murphy, Connor’s sister and Evan’s love interest, who struggles with her complicated relationship with her brother. She refuses to rewrite history and makes a saint out of a brother who made her life a living hell. Maggie Bera was riveting as Cynthia Murphy, Connor and Zoe’s mother, a woman desperate to understand her son’s life and actions, while trying to hold her disintegrating marriage and family together. Ryan M. Hunt gave a standout performance as Larry Murphy, Connor and Zoe’s father, a successful lawyer whose strained relationship with a son he could neither control nor connect with has wreaked havoc on his life and marriage. Hunt has strong vocals, and his nuanced delivery of “To Break in a Glove” was an unforgettable onstage moment. Bera, Hunt, and Sol’s emotionally raw trio, “Requiem,” struck a deep chord with its layered harmonies and a heaping dose of brutal honesty. Arwen-Vira Marsh delivered a noteworthy performance as Alana Beck, an ambitious, enterprising young woman who wants to make a difference. Act I closed on a high note with “You Will Be Found,” which begins as a soft solo backed by a piano ballad and builds into a big production number featuring the entire cast, including the talented ensemble Zac Decker, Chris Donovan, Lily Grubert, Alex Kidder, and Jordan Radis. If you have tweens and teenagers, treat them to this show. Afterward, start a conversation. Talk about the issues, the real ones, the hard ones, the old elephant in the room we were all taught to ignore or sweep under the rug. You’ll all be better off because of it! This thought-provoking musical runs through October 25, 2026. I am praying the Engeman Theater extends the run of “Dear Evan Hansen!” You can buy tickets by calling 631-2612900, visiting engemantheater.com, or going to the John W. Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street, Northport. Cindi Sansone-Braff is an awardwinning playwright. She holds a BFA in Theatre from the University of Connecticut and is a member of the Dramatists Guild. She is the author of “Grant Me a Higher Love,” “Why Good People Can’t Leave Bad Relationships,” and “Confessions of a Reluctant Long Island Psychic.” She won the 2026 Press Club of Long Island Media Award in the Narrative Arts Category for outstanding journalism.
Technology News Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
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Thursday, September 24, 2026
Trump Says Whoever Wins ‘Super Intelligence’ Wins. The Rest of Us Still Need Water. The president’s United Nations speech cast AI as a contest for national power. The harder question is what winning means once the technology reaches the systems the public depends on. President Donald Trump (R-FL) used his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday to give Artificial Intelligence a new name and place it at the center of a global contest. “Whoever wins super intelligence wins. That’s the group that wins,” said our President. He continued by saying The United States, “totally rejects any attempt to construct a globalist scheme of control for the Artificial Intelligence being spoken of so much now — hereinafter officially called ‘Super Intelligence.’” Together, the remarks frame AI as more than a technology or business tool, and it is. The speech made the AI debate explicit the crux of the AI debate: governments and companies are building for advantage even though no one can say with certainty how the technology will develop or where its largest consequences will land. A Race Without a Map Wharton professor Ethan Mollick, who studies innovation and AI, described that uncertainty in a 2024 interview: “Nobody really knows what these systems could do.” He said even the companies developing leading models had been surprised by the effects of systems they released. That does not mean expertise is absent, but it does not live in one space. Scientists understand the models. Engineers understand the computing infrastructure. Cybersecurity specialists understand threats. Utility operators understand their plants. Integrators understand how those parts work together. Architects examine the wider system: its dependencies, lines of authority and effects on the people who rely on it. No one discipline holds the entire system. The big story Tuesday was a president declaring a new global race. On the homefront, the story is an Internet-connected controller at a local water plant. The connection between the two statements is why the speech
Credit - Gemini
By Mollie W. Barnett matters: Artificial Intelligence, or Super Intelligence, becomes public power when it can reach physical systems, and those systems are governed by decisions about access, security, and human authority. The Scary Story Is on Tap Much of the public debate focuses on what an advanced AI might become. A more immediate question is what any capable system can reach once it is connected to infrastructure people use every day. At a water plant, controllers open valves, run pumps, and tell operators what is happening. Those devices need no intelligence of their own to become vulnerable. If they can be reached from outside, a digital intrusion can have physical consequences. On July 30, the FBI and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warned that malicious actors had targeted Internet-facing controllers at water and wastewater utilities in at least seven states. The attackers changed device addresses and passwords, causing operators to lose monitoring and control. Reported effects included pressure loss and flooding. Federal officials told utilities to remove controllers from direct internet exposure, restrict access and preserve their ability to operate the systems manually. The alert did not say AI was used in those attacks. The incidents matter because they show that the pathway to physical disruption already exists. Super intelligence is not required when a controller has been left exposed to the Internet. The federal government is also preparing for AI to become part of critical infrastructure itself. In April, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) began developing a risk framework for AI used in information technology, operational technology and industrial-control systems. NIST researchers Raymond Sheh and Martin Stanley identified the requirements: hardened plantmonitoring systems, fail-safe controls, rigorous testing and human oversight. Their work reflects a basic distinction
that can be lost in discussions about model intelligence. Capability is one question. Authority is another. What can the system reach? What is it permitted to do? Can a human interrupt it? Can the plant continue operating if the model, network or vendor disappears? The machine does not have to wake up. It only has to reach your tap. Why Winning Requires More Than the Strongest Model Trump’s definition of winning concerns national leadership. For the public, the test is broader. An open-weight model can be downloaded and run elsewhere. A closed model remains behind a company’s service, where customers pay for access. Neither structure is automatically safe. The difference is where control sits: A closed system retains a company gate, while an openweight model can continue circulating after the developer releases it. That makes the idea of one permanent winner difficult to sustain. American companies may lead the most expensive frontier while capable models circulate from laboratories in several countries. A nation can lead in model development while depending on supply chains it does not control. It can build enormous computing capacity while leaving its grid, water systems and local governments exposed. The physical demands are already measurable. The Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory estimated that data centers used 4.7% of all U.S. electricity in 2024. Its 2025 update, led by researchers Sarah Smith and Arman Shehabi,
projects a central estimate of 11.8% by 2030, with a modeled range from 9.5 to 15.3%. The report estimates that data centers could account for one-third of total U.S. electricity-demand growth between 2024 and 2030. Those findings are not an argument against data centers. They establish that the AI race is also an infrastructure story. Decisions about generation, transmission, water, land, and system security will move through public agencies and local communities, even when the intelligence itself is privately owned. A town does not need to own a frontier model to retain authority over its water system. It needs operators who know what is connected, controllers that can be isolated, recovery plans that have been tested and the power to reject systems that cannot fail safely. AI may help operators monitor plants, anticipate failures, and respond to abnormal conditions. Those gains count as progress only if the intelligence strengthens the system without quietly taking control away from the people responsible for it. Trump’s speech gave the race a new name and a simple outcome: Whoever wins super intelligence wins. The systems through which the public will experience that victory are not simple. Presidents leave office. Companies rise and fall. This week’s leading model will be ordinary before the ink dries. The tap will still be there. That is where super intelligence becomes real. A country has not won because one of its companies built the strongest model. It has won only if that intelligence strengthens the systems people depend on without stripping the public of authority over them.
Mollie W. Barnett - is a writer and decision architect who has worked in communications.
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Messenger Perspectives Thursday, September 24, 2026
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Getting a Closer Look By PJ Balzer
This past week, I attended another boys’ varsity soccer game on our home field. I absolutely love the ambiance of the fall soccer season, especially as it’s getting cooler out and the sun is setting earlier each day. I really look forward to this time of year and try to spend the most time outdoors possible. There was a young man at this game who I remembered well from the prior game last week. Everyone in attendance remembered him, I’m sure, especially the high school’s security guards. I could tell immediately that they are familiar with dealing with him inside the school as well. He stands out right away as a troubled kid, really hyper and definitely unruly. He spent a good portion of the soccer game standing up on the bleachers, the same bleachers the rest of us were sitting on. He purposely and loudly taunted the opposing team, taunted their fans and even some of his own classmates who were watching the game too quietly for his liking. He has a personality that is easily able to stir up his peers, stir them towards rowdiness and vulgarity. By halftime, he had a group of kids standing on the bleachers alongside him and yelling. Like mostly everyone else sitting there, I initially looked down upon this young man who probably isn’t older than 15 years old. I kept thinking to myself, “Why isn’t the security removing him from the stands and sending him home?
(631) 269-6421
He’s been a hyperactive nuisance most of the game and he’d be better anywhere else but close to me. Get him out of my sight, out of mind, and stop inconveniencing me.” That was last week’s game. At the most recent game this past week, he was much less unruly but did move the place he was sitting in often. There was a group of young ladies sitting a few rows beneath me, who his friends were apparently friendly with. The last of his many seating choices in the stands was ten feet away from me with this group of young ladies. I was finally able to see him from up close and spent half time observing him. Things usually change when you view people and their lives from up close. The first thing I noticed from up close was a sadness in his eyes surrounded by pronounced black circles underneath. They were hard to miss; I know those circles well. They’re from stress, a lack of good sleep, and probably a lack of good nutrition as well. I know many kids just like him that have those same circles. They live and sleep in chaotic environments with noise happening all night long. There’s no such thing as organic blueberry pancakes waiting for these kids as breakfast in the morning before school. They usually have a small bag of Doritos and whatever breakfast our district offers on the morning food cart. He was much skinnier up close than he looked from a distance. His clothes were fashionable, but I did notice that he had the same outfit on as the last game. From up close, I could see that he had these dirt lines along the seams of his shirt. I know those specific dirt lines as well as I know the dark circles. Those lines aren’t dirt from rolling around in the grass. Those are from being worn repeatedly without being washed. From a distance, I was only able to see a hard and obnoxious teenager that was at the soccer game to cause trouble and stir up the crowd. From up close, I saw a young man that most likely comes from a household where love, care, and individual attention isn’t abundant. Neglect and harshness have probably replaced them. Food and laundry detergent probably aren’t abundant as well. Even if he doesn’t know it, he’s inwardly yearning for attention and for someone to notice him. He wants to be cared for and loved, as we all do. He’s asking for that in the only way he knows. It’s so much more convenient to dislike, label, and write people off from afar. If and when we allow ourselves to get close enough, we may end up getting a view of them with our heart rather than our eyes. When I got into the car after the game was over, I did so with a prayer divinely placed inside my heart that went something like this: “Lord let me see people clearly and not only from my own convenient distance. Help me to see past people’s actions and into their lives. Let me be a part of the solution to this young man’s issues and not the person who spends all my time pointing them out, even if the solution, for now, is just a simple smile.”
AMAC Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Overview - AMAC The Association of Mature American Citizens
Thursday, September 24, 2026
Democrats Are Giving Taxpayer-Funded Cash Payments to Illegal Aliens By Sarah Katherine Sisk | AMAC Contributing Writer As the Trump administration steps up immigration enforcement actions, some Democrat-run localities are now simply giving cash payments to illegal aliens and their families – all funded by American taxpayers. This shocking new development has become just the latest example of liberal politicians putting illegal aliens who have no right to be in the country ahead of American citizens. In the most recent example, during a special September 2 meeting, the Arlington County Board in Arlington, Virginia, voted 4-0 to set aside $50,000 in taxpayer funds for families in which the primary wage earner has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Recipients will receive direct payments of up to $2,000 in the form of debit cards or checks. The news comes following a concentrated enforcement operation in Northern Virginia suburbs around Washington, D.C., in which ICE announced that it had arrested more than 1,300 illegal aliens over the course of just two weeks. At least 400 of those individuals had prior criminal records. Their past crimes included sexual battery, kidnapping, DUI, hit-and-run, identity theft, and robbery. Some were wanted for murder, attempted murder, or rape. The operation also swept up members of gangs like MS-13, 18th Street, and Tren de Aragua, along with Eygner Wilfredo Huezo-Moran, a Salvadoran wanted on a Richmond murder warrant. As one of her first actions after taking office earlier this year, new Virginia Democrat Governor Abigail Spanberger terminated an agreement requiring state and local police to cooperate with ICE on immigration enforcement. Notably, Virginians are already facing higher electricity costs as the state rejoins the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, and various other taxes passed by the Democrat legislature are driving the cost of living higher for families in the Old Dominion. But Democrats in Arlington County apparently believe that cash payouts to illegal aliens are a good use of taxpayer money. As insulting as that is to American citizens, things are even worse in Los Angeles, where the city government is offering up to $15,000 in rent relief to households “impacted by ICE enforcement” – and the money is coming from funds that are supposed to go to wildfire victims. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors had initially identified $10 million for a rent-relief fund to help tenants and landlords harmed by the January 2025 wildfires. Those blazes burned nearly 60 square miles of land, killed more than 30 people, and destroyed more than 16,000 structures. But last September, even as many wildfire victims were still homeless, the board quietly redirected $5 million of that pool to a new “immigration-enforcement hardship category.” The move has drawn fresh scrutiny amid the recent revelations about Arlington County’s similar actions. The program can cover up to six months of rent, capped at $15,000 per rental unit. Eligibility does not require disclosure of any household member’s immigration status. County administrators may ask applicants who cite immigration enforcement for proof of detention, but the guide says those who do not choose to provide it may still qualify under another hardship category. In other words, illegal aliens and their families can absolutely receive this lucrative benefit. Local officials are trying to sell these programs as a humanitarian response to hardship instead of what they really are: direct payments for immigration violations and an abuse of taxpayer money. LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn argued that raids had left many residents afraid to work or leave home. “These are not criminals that this administration is targeting. These are hardworking people we have come to depend on in our community,” she said. Of course, entering the country illegally or overstaying a visa is against the law, so anyone who does
either of those two things is, by definition, a criminal. Democrats can call every raid an attack on “hardworking people.” But why should the household of a detained illegal alien — including cases involving violent criminals — get its own taxpayer-funded relief category while victims of those crimes get nothing from the state? For years, Democrat counties have treated ICE as the problem and illegal aliens as helpless victims to protect. They do whatever they can to make it more difficult for law enforcement to do their job, limiting what sheriffs can tell federal officers and dropping or trimming charges so a conviction does not automatically trigger deportation.
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The Association of Mature American Citizens represents Americans 50 plus. AMAC is centered on American values, freedom of the individual, free speech, and exercise of religion, equality of opportunity, sanctity of life, rule of law, and love of family, with benefits at all levels.
AMAC plays a vital role in helping build the services that will enrich the lives of America’s seniors. AMAC Action, a 501 (C)(4) advocates for issues important to AMAC’s membership on Capitol Hill and locally through grassroots activism. To Learn more, visit amac.us
Moreover, Democrats have never offered any such sympathy – much less cash payouts – to the American workers who have been fired or seen their wages slashed after being undercut by cheap illegal labor. Arlington and Los Angeles are previews of the vision Democrats have in mind for the entire country if they win back power. Taxpayers who are already being squeezed to fund countless other wasteful government programs are now being forced to subsidize illegal aliens and their families as part of the liberal “resistance” against the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement efforts. Voters nationwide should keep that in mind as they head to the polls this November.
S T A G E
SEP 10– OCT 25 U P
N E X T
By William Goldman Based on the Novel by Stephen King
JAN 14–FEB 28 M
NOV 12–DEC 27 C H I L D R E N’S
SEP 26–OCT 25
T H E A T E R
Frosty NOV 21–DEC 27
Bits & Pieces
20
WORD OF THE
Week
Etymology: 1660s, from Latin lacrimosus, “tearful, sorrowful, weeping.”
Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
SUDOKU
LACHRYMOSE adjective Pronounced: /la·kruh·mows/ Definition:
given to tears or weeping.
Example:
“The tragedy made a normal day a lachrymose one.”
Synonyms: sad, tearful, sentimental Antonyms: beaming, jovial, merry
Sources: Merriam-Webster, Etymonline.com.
See bottom left for the answers (please don’t cheat!)
This Week in History
WORD WHEEL E
N
Black Friday: Panic on Wall Street after investors Jay Gould and James Fisk attempt to corner the gold market.
September 29, 1906:
S See how many words you can create. Must have center letter in word and can use letters more than once. 4 letter word minimum.
C H
British physician Dr. Charles Drysdale warns against the use of tobacco in a letter to The Times newspaper in one of the earliest public health announcements on the dangers of smoking.
U.S. intervenes in Cuba and ousts dictator Estrada Palma.
O
L
September 25, 1878:
September 24, 1869
September 26, 1968:
“Oliver!,” directed by Carol Reed and starring Mark Lester and Ron Moody, premieres in London (Best Picture 1969).
September 28, 1968:
The Beatles’ single “Hey Jude” hits #1 and stays at #1 for nine weeks.
September 30, 1846: September 27, 1822 French scholar Jean-François Champollion announces he has deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphs using the Rosetta Stone.
Anesthetic ether is used for the first time by American dentist Dr. William Morton to extract a tooth. Source: Onthisday.com.
Bits & Pieces Published by Messenger Papers, Inc.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
NATIONAL An extortion hacking group claimed responsibility for stealing personnel records from the FBI. Diesel hit an all-time record of $6.53 this week. Gas stations in several states are advertising the fuel as out of stock. The White House is reportedly preparing for 90-day diesel export ban. 10-Year Treasury yields soared to 5.11% on Wednesday, the highest since 2007. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the UNGA said Iran will not “bend the knee.” President Trump’s Board of Peace proposed a $2.45 billion blueprint to rebuild Gaza. 17 Democratic Senators urged Trump to pause AI development. A task force announced the removal of 760,000 allegedly fraudulent Obamacare enrollments. Democrats hit a cycle-high lead of 8.5 points in the RCP generic ballot average. J.D. Vance campaigned in the ruby-red state of Kansas this week, signalling growing apprehension for the GOP ahead of the midterms.
STATE A Siena College poll found Governor Hochul +9 over Nassau Executive Blakeman. A Quinnipiac poll found Hochul +19 over Blakeman. The State is temporarily pausing permits for hyperscale data centers to establish guardrails. The State is suing the federal government over canceled offshore wind projects. Mayor Mamdani renewed calls for Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrest as the Prime Minister landed in New York for the UNGA.
LOCAL A Bay Shore man was indicted for attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a 65-year-old man. 35 defendants plead guilty in a vehicle theft and title washing ring. A family clinic opened in downtown Smithtown last Thursday. The toll booths to Sunken Meadow State Park were badly damaged after two separate fatal car crashes. Suffolk Community College’s Brentwood, Riverhead, and Selden campuses will be hosting open houses November 8 at 12:00p.m.
WORD SEARCH
21
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Natalie Affenita Natalie NatalieAffenita Affenita Natalie Natalie Affenita Natalie Natalie Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Licensed Real
In Contract/West Sayville
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Licensed Real Real EE Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Licensed Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Licensed Real Estate Salesperson O 631.589.850 NatalieAffenita Affenita 631.589.8500 |M M 631.576.6454 O 631.589.8500 631.589.8500 O O 631.589.8500 |M M 631.576.6454 Natalie OOO 631.589.8500 | 631.576.6454 Natalie Affenita natalie.affen O 631.589.8500 | M 631.576.6454 O 631.589.8500 | 631.576.6454 631.589.8500 | M 631.576.6454 natalie.affeni Licensed Real Estate Salesperson natalie.affenit natalie.affenita@elliman.com elliman.com/natal Licensed Real Real Estate Estate Salesperson Salesperson Licensed natalie.affenita@elliman.com natalie.affenita@elliman.com elliman.com/natalie O 631.589.8500 | M natalie.affenita@elliman.com 631.576.6454 elliman.com/natalie natalie.affenita@elliman.com natalie.affenita@elliman.com O 631.589.8500 631.589.8500 || M M 631.576.6454 631.576.6454 O elliman.com/natalieaffenita |elliman.co natalie.affenita@elliman.com elliman.com/natalieaffenita |elliman.co elliman.c elliman.com/natalieaffenita |DOUGLAS natalie.affenita@elliman.com elliman.com/natalieaffenita | elliman.com elliman.com/natalieaffenita | elliman.co © 2026 ELLIMAN REAL EST natalie.affenita@elliman.com elliman.com/natalieaffenita | elliman.co elliman.com/natalieaffenita | elliman.com ©110 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REALESTAT ESTATS WALT WHITMAN RD, HUNTINGTON © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL
elliman.com/natalieaffenita || elliman.com elliman.com elliman.com/natalieaffenita
In Contract/Central Islip
Sold / Miller Place $605,000
110WALT WALTWHITMAN WHITMANRD, RD,HUNTINGTON HUNTINGTONSTA ST 110
2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN© REAL EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. ©ESTATE. 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. ©110 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. WALT WHITMAN RD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.7401. © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. © 2026 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. 110 WALT WHITMAN RD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.74 110 WALT WHITMAN RD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.7 110WALT WALTWHITMAN WHITMANRD, RD,HUNTINGTON HUNTINGTON STATION, NEWYORK YORKRD, 11746. 631.549.7401. STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.740 110 STATION, NEW 11746. 631.549.7401. 110 WALT WHITMAN HUNTINGTON
110WALT WALT WHITMAN RD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.74 110 110 WALT WHITMAN RD,RD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.7401 WHITMAN HUNTINGTON STATION, NEW YORK 11746. 631.549.740
Sold / Hampton Bays $830,000
Sold / Bayport $1,525,000
Sold / Selden $500,000
23
Ducks Invite Students to
Celebrate Good Grades at Ballpark The Long Island Ducks are recognizing the hard work and accomplishments of students across Long Island by inviting them to celebrate their achievements at the ballpark and help cheer on the Ducks during the Atlantic League Championship Series. Beginning Monday, September 21, students of all ages and grade levels can bring a good grade or outstanding mark from a recent test, quiz, project, report card or school assignment to the Ducks Box Office at Fairfield Properties Ballpark and receive one complimentary box seat ticket, a $19 value, to Friday’s Game Three of the Atlantic League Championship Series at 6:35p.m. The Ducks want to recognize the hard work of Long Island students while giving them an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and be part of the excitement of playoff baseball. The promotion is simple: students just need to bring their grade or outstanding mark and present it to a Ducks Box Office representative. No purchase is necessary to receive the complimentary ticket, and each student may receive one ticket. Parents and guardians accompanying the student can also take advantage of a special discounted ticket offer when purchasing tickets with the complimentary student ticket. “We know how hard students work, especially with the recent start of the school year, and we wanted to find a fun way to recognize them for their efforts,” said Ducks General Manager Sean Smith. “They’ve earned the good grades, and now we need them to bring that same energy to the ballpark and help us cheer on the Ducks as we continue our championship run.”
The Good Grades promotion begins Monday, September 21, and continues through game time on Friday, September 25, while supplies last. The Ducks Box Office is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. and on Friday from 10:00a.m. through the end of the game. The Ducks will host Game Three of the Atlantic League Championship Series on Friday, September 25, at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip. First pitch between the Ducks and Southern Maryland Blue Crabs is scheduled for 6:35p.m., with the ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders).
Comsewogue Boys Soccer By Ashley Pavlakis
The Spartans are back on the pitch in 2026 at Comsewogue High School. The varsity boys’ soccer team is performing well in League IV, and they’re winning against powerhouse teams in and out of their league. The Comsewogue varsity boys’ soccer team is a member of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) and competes in League IV. The boys are led by head coach Michael Bonura. He’s joined on the sidelines by assistant coach Keith Zoccoli. Bonura is in his second stint with the Spartans; his first was from 1997-2001, and he began his second stint at the helm in 2024. The Spartans have a rich history in terms of winning. Comsewogue is a 13-time League champion, 4-time Suffolk County champion, and 2-time New York State champion. Their most recent win was the Suffolk title in 2024. Comsewogue is one of three schools to claim consecutive New York State titles. Cold Spring Harbor achieved it first in 1993 and 1994, Sachem notched the feat in 1997 and 1998, and Comsewogue most recently did it in 2008 and 2009. The familiarity of being on top has the Spartans hungry to get back on top of the mountain. The boys repping blue and gold have put up five quality outings so far this season. They’ve outscored their opponents 10 to 4, posting two shutouts along the way. The Spartans boast a 5-10 record, putting them in a tie with West Babylon for second in League IV. Since 2022, the Spartans
have consistently posted a winning record. Gio Dicecco is tied for 13th in goal scoring in Suffolk County with five. Comsewogue conquered the Hills, defeating Hills East and West by identical 3-2 scores. The Spartans notched this feat on their home turf, ‘the Coliseum’. Versus Hills West, Comsewogue came from behind in the second half and mounted the comeback with goals from DiCecco (2), and Mueller (1). In the match against Hills East, they got ahead early and closed it out in the second half to complete the Huntington sweep. The Spartans will face Hills West one more time this season before September ends. The Spartans took on the sixth-ranked (NYS Class AA) Smithtown West Bulls on Tuesday night at the Coliseum. The Bulls were one of four teams in Section XI to hold an undefeated record this season. The Spartans went to battle with the Bulls and emerged victorious by the score of 2-1, thus putting an end to the Bulls perfect record. The two will play one another one more time later this season. The moral of the story is that the Comsewogue Spartans have proven their ability to beat anyone this season. The Spartans have “Fear None” inscribed across the back of their jerseys, a motto they’ve chosen for the 2026-27 season. They’ve certainly lived up to expectations so far and look to keep the momentum going with a deep road schedule on the docket.
Smithtown Messenger - Brookhaven Messenger - Islip Messenger - Thursday, September 24, 2026