The
tbrnewsmedia.com
TIMES of MIDDLE COUNTRY C E N T E R E AC H • S E L D E N • L A K E G R O V E N O R T H
Vol. 16, No. 42
January 28, 2021
$1.00
Remembered as a hero
Cougars’ first season win Centereach girls fencing beats Huntington Blue Devils
A9
Whaling Museum presents exhibit on LI’s first whalers
Also: WMHO launches new Master Class series, review of News of the World
B1
SPACE RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBER ADDRESS
Love My Pet ADVERTISING DEADLINE Thursday, February 4
Featuring Pets on The North Shore February 11, 2021
Julianne Mosher
Community says goodbye to Selden resident and 2nd precinct lieutenant Robert Van Zeyl — A3
Email your pet photo to loveourphotos@tbrnewsmedia.com and put “Pet Photo” in the subject line plus pet’s name, your name & town by 5 pm on Feb. 5th. To advertise in this special feature call your account representative at 631-751-7744! TBR NEWS MEDIA
TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA
185 Route 25A Setauket, NY 11733 (631) 751–7744 • tbrnewsmedia.com
PAGE A2 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
Our commitment of caring for Long Island is well-established, so we decided to shorten our name. We’re now Catholic Health Services of Long Island. No matter your health need, you can count on our highly-awarded, compassionate network of care.
HOSPITALS:
CONTINUING CARE:
MEDICAL GROUP:
• St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center®
• Catholic Health Home Care
• Catholic Health Physician Partners
• Good Samaritan Hospital • St. Charles Hospital • St. Catherine of Siena Hospital
• St. Joseph Hospital
• Good Samaritan Nursing & Rehabilitation • Our Lady of Consolation Nursing & Rehabilitation • St. Catherine of Siena Nursing & Rehabilitation
Learn more at chsli.org/catholichealth
Catholic Health Services of Long Island is now Catholic Health
166620
• Mercy Hospital
• Good Shepherd Hospice
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A3 T
H
E
BEST
for Miller Place Families
CHOICE
Over 100 officers and Suffolk County Police Commisioner Geraldine Hart paid their respects to Lt. Robert Van Zeyl in Port Jefferson Station Tuesday. Photo by Julianne Mosher ; Below photo of Van Zeyl from SCPD
Community mourns death of SCPD lieutenant Hundreds of people gathered in Port Jefferson Station Tuesday to mourn the loss of Suffolk County Police Department Lt. Robert Van Zeyl, the county’s first active duty officer to die from COVID-19. Van Zeyl lost his life Jan. 20 after testing positive for the virus Jan. 3. He was hospitalized a week later. M e m b e r s from the law enforcement Lt. Robert Van Zeyl community joined Van Zeyl’s family to say goodbye with a full military-style precession featuring police motorcycles, pipes and drums, and an American flag arched by two fire trucks. Uniformed officers who came out from as far as Manhattan saluted the decorated casket as it drove up to St. Gerard Majella R.C. Church on Terryville Road. “It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of an exceptional member of our law enforcement family, Lieutenant Robert Van Zeyl,� Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone (D) said in a statement. “Lieutenant Van Zeyl’s more-than three decades of exemplary service are a testament to his commitment to public service, and even in the midst of a global pandemic, he was on the frontlines every day helping residents in need. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Van Zeyl family during this difficult time.� Van Zeyl joined the Suffolk County Police Department in February 1985 and served in the 5th Precinct in Patchogue upon graduation from the academy. In 1994, he was promoted to sergeant and then lieutenant in 2003.
He served as the commanding officer of the Applicant Investigation Section and the Administrative Services Bureau before transferring to the 2nd Precinct in the Town of Huntington in 2015 where he worked until his death. “Bob was a wonderful person, a dedicated member of our department, and a pleasure to know both personally and professionally,� Inspector William Scrima, 2nd Precinct commanding officer, said in a statement. “He was a person who genuinely enjoyed his work and was liked by people of all ranks who knew him and worked with him. He will be truly missed by this department and by the 2nd Precinct in particular.� During his more than three-decade career, Van Zeyl received more than a dozen recognitions for his contributions to the police department including two Cop of the Month honors and the Excellent Police Duty Award for amassing 12 or more self-initiated DWI arrests in a single year. The Selden resident leaves behind two children, Hailey and Tyler, and his ex-wife Christine Zubrinic. “Lieutenant Van Zeyl was really just a fighter the whole way,� Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart said after the ceremony. “He was out in the frontlines battling for his communities, his whole career was dedicated to service and today we say goodbye to him. I know that his family will always be with us. For his beautiful daughter Hailey and son Tyler, this has such a difficult time for them, and we just really want them to know that we’re here for them.� “They will always remember their dad, who was really a hero, and will always be remembered by this department,� the commissioner said. Hart added that during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, 87 SCPD officers tested positive for the virus. Van Zeyl’s death is the first. He was 60 years old.
Request your
FREE PLANNING GUIDE today! If something happened to you, would your family know what to do?
Our family serving yours since 1900
Call (631) 744.9700 or Scan the QR Code below to receive FREE planning information. Scan with your smart phone camera >
Branch Funeral Home of Miller Place | Â Â?Â? |
BRANCHFH.COM
Branch Funeral Home of Smithtown | |
171332
BY JULIANNE MOSHER JULIANNE@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM
FUNERALS • CREMATION • PRE-PLANNING • GRIEF SUPPORT
PAGE A4 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
DISCOVER THE FINEST IN SENIOR LIVING AT OUR NEW LOCATION IN MOUNT SINAI
Artist’s Rendering
The Bristal Assisted Living has been serving seniors and their families in the tri-state area since 2000, offering independent and assisted living, as well as state-of-the-art memory care programs. We are committed to helping residents remain independent, while providing peace of mind that expert care is available, if needed. Designed with seniors in mind, each of our communities feature exquisitely appointed apartments and beautiful common areas that are perfect for entertaining. On-site services and amenities include daily housekeeping, gourmet meals, a cinema, salon, plus so much more. Discover a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and a luxurious lifestyle that you will only find at The Bristal.
NOW OPEN | SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY! THE BRISTAL AT MOUNT SINAI 400 Sutton Court | 631.250.5144
For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: THEBRISTAL.COM
AN ENGEL BURMAN COMMUNITY
Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. 169639
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A5
County
Port Jefferson woman gives back to her community BY JULIANNE MOSHER JULIANNE@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM COVID-19 has been tough on nonprofits, but that isn’t stopping Melissa Paulson from helping others. Give Kids Hope Inc. is a 501c3 that Paulson started up nine years ago, after her daughter was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma at just 18 months old. Paulson, who is a stay-at-home mom, decided to devote all of her free time to charity. “I knew I wanted to do something to help other families in similar situations,” she said. That’s when Give Kids Hope was born. Paulson created the nonprofit to help children and their families battling cancer. But as the years went on, Paulson began seeing how many other people were in need around her. “There are so many less fortunate people in the community,” she said. “I never realized how many Long Islanders are struggling just to put food on their tables and a roof over their heads.” She began gathering supplies she knew people would need, especially around the holidays, to donate to shelters, housing units and food pantries — and she was doing it out of her home for many of those years. “I put a plea out and a generous donor gave
me $5,000 dollars to open a center up,” she said. “It’s a facility so people can come and ‘shop’ completely free.” The brick and mortar location opened up on July 1 and have so far helped nearly 7,000 families across Long Island, Paulson said. She added that people who need a helping hand will find her group on Facebook, through local churches and by word of mouth. “We get a lot of walk ins,” she said. “Sadly, it’s homeless people asking for clothing. And she said the community has been “so responsive” to her cause, but she could use more help to reach out to more people. “I think if people knew what we did then more people would get involved,” she said. Compared to other similar nonprofits, 100% of everything they get goes directly back to the charity. Also, rather than a typical food pantry that gives canned goods and nonperishables, Paulson said her little “shop” stores perishable groceries one might need like milk, eggs, bread and juices. And because of the COVID-19 crisis, she said she has been easier than ever. “We’ve been swamped because of the pandemic,” she said. “Whatever comes in goes back out.” To meet that need, on Feb. 7, Give Kids Hope will be hosting a “Free Shopping Day and
Melissa Paulson gives a peak inside the Give Kids Hope pantry. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Pantry Day” to help people who might need a little extra help. So far, Paulson said, there are 700 families registered to receive clothes, toys and food. Registration is ongoing, or people can drive up to the parking lot that day to quickly grab what they need. The event will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. “I’m in the community,” she said. “This is my home and it’s so important for me to help
other people.” The Feb. 7 event will be Paulson’s first “shopping day” since the pandemic. She plans on doing them at least once a month. Give Kids Hope’s shop is located at 4390 Nesconset Highway in Port Jefferson Station and is open six days a week. “If there are families in need, they can reach out for us,” Paulson said. “We don’t judge and there are no questions asked.”
Stony Brook field hospital partially dismantled BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM
The state’s field hospital set up on the Stony Brook University grounds earlier this year has looked a little different over the past few weeks. At the end of April, five climate-controlled structures were completed by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide SBU Hospital and other local medical centers with more beds due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents passing by the alternate care facility structures recently have noticed that they are roofless and the interior walls — used to create mini rooms — are now dismantled. According to state officials, several temporary state field hospitals were prepared for the December winter storm, which included snow. Part of that prep work included emptying the structures of equipment and fixtures. At SBUH, the fabric tenting materials were also removed. However, the field hospital is not being dismantled completely in case it needs to be opened for patients. The 1,000-bed facility in Stony Brook has never been used. According to state officials, all of the
components that were removed were inventoried and are ready for use wherever needed, whether in Stony Brook, on Long Island or across the state. The hospital extension was slated for patients with health care issues outside of COVID-19 in order to free up bed space in the hospital and other local medical centers to treat patients with the virus. The final cost for the alternate care facility was some $155 million, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. All work done by USACE for the construction of alternate care facilities was funded by Federal Emergency Management Agency mission assignments to USACE. State Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) said when the alternate care facilities were assembled little was known about the pandemic’s course. “At the time that they were built, the hospitals in Queens had so many bodies that they were tying refrigeration trucks together in the parking lots, just to store the bodies,” he said, adding the hospitals couldn’t process and bury the bodies fast enough. “To put it in perspective, that was the environment in which the governor’s office
According to the governor’s office, temporary state field hospitals, such as the one at Stony Brook University, were prepared for the winter with the removal of roofs and emptying the structures of equipment. Photo by Sue Wahlert
basically made a decision,” he said. “I think they were informed by the seriousness of space limitations.” He added early on no one knew that the infection rates would be down by the summer. “The reality is that hindsight is 20/20,” Englebright said. “At that point in time, they did not have the benefit of knowing the scale,
magnitude or speed of the pandemic. The governor was successful in suppressing New York’s acceleration in those months in the spring. And so, I think you have to look at the current dismantlement of the hospital as a testament, not of wastefulness, but of merciful success in suppressing the acceleration of the pandemic in New York.”
PAGE A6 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
County
State Sen. Mattera looks toward returning to normalcy BY RITA J. EGAN RITA@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM St. James resident Mario Mattera (R) started off the new year as a freshman senator in Albany, and he’s looking forward to getting back to business as usual in the 2nd District, which includes Smithtown and parts of Brookhaven and Huntington.
Fresh on the job
The state senator was sworn into office Jan. 5 by his wife, Terry, who is a notary with his daughters, Jessica and Jayme, on hand. He said he is overwhelmed by the support of constituents who voted for him because he feels they trust he can get the job done. “From Huntington to Smithtown to Brookhaven, I’m looking forward to doing whatever I need to do,” he said. A former business agent with the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters with Plumbers Local #200 for more than four decades, the state senator will serve as the chief Republican on the Consumer Protection Committee, as well as the Corporations, Authorities and Commissions Committee. He has also been appointed as a member of the Labor and Transportation standing committees. Mattera said he’s traveled to Albany and interacted with his fellow senators, which has been a little different than previous years where elected officials are practicing social distancing and wearing facial coverings. Some legislators are even working remotely due to the pandemic. “I’ve been up every week,” he said. “I feel it’s important. I need to get the feel of the chamber and meet people.”
COVID-19 vaccinations
Mattera said the biggest obstacle right now is getting life back to normal. He is currently pushing for pharmacies to be able to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. He and other legislators held a press conference in Hauppauge Jan. 14 calling out Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) on the state’s failed vaccine rollout. Mattera said even if the proper inventory of vaccines isn’t available, there needs to be a better rollout plan, which would include residents being able to get the vaccine in their own neighborhood instead of traveling to larger sites, such as at colleges, where he said many may feel uncomfortable. “Let’s have a facility that our residents can go to that is local, and they’ll feel comfortable, just like with the flu shot,” he said. “There’s no reason why we can’t go to Walgreens or CVS and our local pharmacies where people feel comfortable.” Mattera said his office has been helping veterans get the information they need to get the vaccine. He said the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center has been helpful and
Freshman state Sen. Mario Mattera is sworn into office by his wife, Terry, while his two daughters, Jessica and Jayme, look on in the Senate Chamber. Photo from Mattera’s office
applauded Fred Sganga, executive director of the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University, for ensuring veterans associated with the home are vaccinated. “There’s no reason why veterans have to be sitting and worrying,” Mattera said, adding having chain pharmacies going into nursing homes was a good plan. “We’ve always put the blame game on the federal government that there are not enough of the vaccines, but let’s have a plan in place when we do get it that’s more convenient for our residents and especially our seniors,” he said.
The state senator gave the example of New York City where many companies currently still have employees working from home which causes a ripple effect. He said restaurants suffer as fewer people are ordering lunch from them and even breakfast and dinner. “Now we realize that the most vibrant city in the world is in dire straits,” he said.
‘ Let’s have a facility that our residents can go to that is local, and they’ll feel comfortable, just like with the flu shot. ’
Schools
In addition to businesses reopening fully, Mattera said it’s also imperative for schools to once again offer five-day, in-person —Mario Mattera instruction. He said he feels Businesses students interacting with Mattera said he’s a their teachers and coaches is big supporter of small important. businesses and believes they can operate like “Our children are suffering from this,” he normal by following safety protocols closely. said, noting that his youngest daughter is a He believes business owners are capable of high school senior. enforcing COVID-19 health guidelines. He He added that at the same time it’s added Cuomo should have reopened New important for districts to keep an eye on York businesses deemed nonessential sooner infection rates to see if they are spiking. than he did. “Safety is always first,” he said.
Infrastructure
Mattera is looking for his district to have the best treatment plants. “We need to make sure that we have the state-of-the-art treatment plants that are put in place to protect our precious water supply for our future,” he said. While there have been talks during the last few years in Smithtown over a proposed sewage treatment plant on the Gyrodyne property in St. James, Mattera said it’s important to look at plants for businesses along the Jericho Turnpike corridor also. He added it’s imperative that treatment plans replenish local aquifers and not dump into the Long Island Sound or ocean. “That’s a problem, and that’s been a problem for a lot of counties like Nassau County,” he said. “Nassau County did not plan for replenishing. It dumps into the Sound. It dumps out into the bay millions of gallons per day.” He added improving the Route 110 corridor by replacing the main sewer line is another priority, and he is working with Town of Huntington Supervisor Chad Lupinacci (R) to secure the funds. “Our infrastructure is really important for proper growth in the future,” he said. Constituents can reach Mattera’s office by email at mattera@nysenate.gov or by phone at 631-361-2154.
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A7
Town
Students, elected officials reflect on new Dwyer statue BY RICH ACRITELLI DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM The Joseph P. Dwyer Memorial Statue was installed this month by Fricke Memorials at the Rocky Point Veterans Memorial Square, standing at the crossroads of Broadway and Route 25A. This bronze statue identifies the psychological and physical reminders that many armed forces members must endure long after they return home from the fighting. At one point this town park was an eyesore to the community. For many years, there was trouble at this location, and in 2011 the Town of Brookhaven permanently closed the Oxygen Bar on the property. Led by Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point), the town purchased the land for $525,000 in 2015. On Oct. 17, 2016, the town installed large poles that flew the American and military branch flags. As a longtime resident of the area, Bonner said, “It was an absolute pleasure to be a part of this worthy endeavor to honor the military efforts of Dwyer and to understand the true significance of the struggles of PTSD. This is an extremely special location to also thank our armed forces members.�
While Bonner has been involved with many key projects, she was also instrumental in helping create the Diamond in the Pines 9/11 Memorial that was built in 2011 by VFW Post 6249 Rocky Point. Former state Sen. Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson) also played a big role in securing the necessary funds for the Dwyer statue. VFW Post 6249 Comdr. Joe Cognitore said LaValle “always positively worked with veterans groups and to help our diverse needs. This statue signifies the amazing drive of LaValle to always be a true champion of support towards the past, present and future members of the military.� The structure that remembers Dwyer, who was a graduate of Mount Sinai High School, illustrates the vital need to help those service members who are suffering from PTSD. Positive sentiments were expressed by members of the Rocky Point High School History Honor Society. Senior Tristan Duenas said, “The town did a wonderful job in replacing a poor piece of land and making it into a vital memorial to pay tribute to our veterans, especially those that have been inflicted by PTSD.� Junior Caroline Settepani added, “This statue demonstrates the major achievements of
The Joseph P. Dwyer Memorial Statue in Rocky Point is a symbol for mental health awareness in the armed forces and was finally installed this month after years of planning. Photo by Kyle Barr
veterans like Dwyer that risked their lives to help people from different parts of the world.� Following her research, junior Madelynn Zarzycki believed “the project is also connected to the past negative treatment of the Vietnam veterans who received little support when they came home.� According to Zarzycki, “These veterans who fought in Southeast Asia faced a severe amount
ZZ055 DRIFT | 00754 PASMINA
Thank You
of PTSD challenges that impacted the rest of their lives. It does not matter when a soldier served in battle, these harsh experiences do not discriminate from one generation to the next.� Senior Chloe Fish recalled the former Oxygen Bar as a “detriment toward the beauty of this community. Now the Dwyer statue adds a new prospective of service to the downtown area of Rocky Point.�
to those risking their lives and keeping us safe and supplied
During these difficult times, tips to reduce anxiety: • Practice deep breathing and relaxation • Meditate • Connect with friends and family by telephone or online • Use visualization & guided imagery • Exercise, try to take a walk • Distract yourself by setting small goals • Mindfulness
If you would like a confidential, compassionate professional person to talk to, I am a psychotherapist working with adults, couples and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, bereavement and trauma.
Š169676
REMEMBER TO KEEP SOCIAL DISTANCING AND THAT THIS WILL END
CARPET • RUGS • HARDWOOD andersontuftex.com
Nancy F. Solomon, LCSW, P.C. 47 Route 25A Setauket, NY 11733 631-941-0400
Š170482
Wishing you serenity and good health,
 Â? Â? Â? Â?   Â? €Â
PAGE A8 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
Community News
American Institute of Architects awards library renovation
The inventive and patron-focused design of the newly renovated Middle Country Public Library Selden building has earned the distinction of the Long Island chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The work of Bermello Ajamil & Partners has been recognized with the special projects award. When presenting the selection, the AIA cited that reinvention and innovation breed longevity and in the case of this energetic library addition and reconfiguration, contemporary needs and an expansive vision for the future are creatively fulfilled. The design team was tasked with introducing a program-centric operational model with an emphasis placed on providing unique experiences for children, young adult and adult patrons. “We are thrilled that our library and talented firm of architects have been bestowed this distinguished award,” said library director Sophia Serlis-McPhillips. “Throughout this process our directive was to provide our patrons
with spaces that were esthetically and physically comfortable to connect, learn and grow; as well as create an efficient and user-friendly environment that supported their needs and goals.” The Selden library building reimagined includes a ground floor re-allocated to youth programming with careful attention offered to the arrival and book exchange experience of patrons. On the lower level, color-saturated tensile structures provide visual breaks and acoustic relief from the adult area mezzanine above. The children’s area is highlighted by a double-height children’s activity room adorned with fairy-tale entry facade housing oversized portal doors and whimsical flying kite structures. Re-envisioned with unique and modern features such as the nook reading banquette, a computer bar is perched along the mezzanine edge with overlook, ample charging stations, group study rooms and traditional book and media stacks. Photos and caption from MCPL
The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office recently announced the opening of a new Inmate Learning Center at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility. The Learning Center opened on Nov. 4, and operates in the Riverhead Correctional Facility to assist inmates as they prepare for the Test Assessing Secondary Completion examination to achieve their high school equivalency diploma. New York State selected the TASC to replace the General Educational Development as the primary pathway to a New York State High School Equivalency Diploma effective Jan. 2, 2014. The Learning Center also provides a place for inmates to participate in educational activities to make them more employable and to enrich their personal lives. Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. has made inmate rehabilitation a focus of his administration. “Some Suffolk County Correction Officers hold teaching degrees and NYS Teacher Certifications in various subject areas,” he said. “Due to the NYS Bail Reform Legislation, we have fewer inmates in the correctional facilities, freeing up some staff to perform different duties. Opening a Learning Center operating in addition to our formal TASC program benefits all involved.” Currently, inmates who are between the
ages of 18 and 21 are eligible for TASC instruction provided by Eastern Suffolk BOCES in the facilities. The Learning Center serves as additional support for these inmates, as well as instruction for inmates of any age who would like to further their educations. Correction Officer Christian Campfield, one of the teachers assigned to the Learning Center, is excited about the program. “Corrections is my second career after teaching. I am happy to be able to utilize my education and background to make a positive impact on the inmates,” he said. “This also allows me to serve a more positive role in the facility, rather than just that of a correction officer. I hope this learning center helps the inmates better themselves so they don’t come back to jail.” The Learning Center already has over 167 inmates enrolled in online continuing education courses in conjunction with Riverhead Library. The inmates have access to over 500 educational courses, including accounting, anger management, psychology, elder care, finances, typing and more. Since opening the Learning Center in November, 25 inmates have already completed courses in various subject areas and three inmates have earned their NYS High School Equivalency Diplomas.
Suffolk County Correctional Facilities open new learning center for inmates
A new learning center is available to inmates in Riverhead that will better prepare them for earning their high school diplomas. Photo from Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department
There are currently three correction officer teachers assigned to the Riverhead Correctional Facility Learning Center.
Plans are in place to open a second Learning Center at the Yaphank Correctional Facility.
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A9
Sports
Go to tbrnewsmedia.com for more sports photos
Cougars notch first season win BY BILL LANDON DESK@TBRNEWSMEDIA.COM Centereach’s girls fencing team opened their season on the right foot with a 16-11 victory over the Huntington Blue Devils at home Jan. 23. Huntington head coach Michelle O’Brien said her team was still shy two of her fencers lacking the mandatory six practices but hopes to be at full strength soon. “These young women have done their best at their meets so far, and although they fell short today, their spirits are high, and I am impressed with their competitiveness,” O’Brien said, adding that junior Abby Simpson notched her first win of the season.
Huntington is back out on the strip Jan. 26 where they travel to Commack for a 4:30 p.m. start. Centereach is back in action at home Jan. 27 where they host Walt Whitman at 6:30 p.m. Scores from the Jan. 27 match were not available at press time. Clockwise from above, Centereach Foilist Gianna Dicanio, left, scores on Huntington’s Emely Cruz; Dicanio, left, scores against Haileigh Smith in sabre; Huntington epeeist Allie Malone, left, scores on Scarlett Gress; Huntington junior Abigail Simon, right, gets a touch on Centereach Nina Nelson in epee; and Centereach freshman epeeist Reese Nelson , right, scores on Simon. — Photos by Bill Landon
PAGE A10 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
Connecting Communities and Keeping It Local!
Keeping North Shore Suffolk County Communities Informed and Connected. Subscribe Today and Support Local Journalism, Local Business, Organizations, and Shopping!
History
A small taste of history: The blizzard of 1934
Amongst the Middle Country Public Library’s many historical artifacts are a few that explain just how far the area has come from its pastoral routes. The pictures and story below comes courtesy of a collaborative eort among the librarian sta.
om media.c tbrnews
TIME
S
thp orN t• EATON’S NECK • CENTERPORT $1.00 Eas t• EASTNor T • ASHAROKE om NORTHPOR or t & media.c , Nor thp• NORTHPORT • FORT SALONGA tbrnews ntin gton • COLD SPRING HARBOR18, 2020 of HuN • HALESITE • LLOYD HARBOR June
ere upTIME e Wteatopen Thing in th Toes County deba s in Suffolk mer — A6
ESCON WN • N
HARBO OF THE • HEAD JAMES SET • ST 2020 June 18,
UOGUE
PA • HAUP
OMMA UGE • C
tbrnewsmedia.com
The VILLAGE BEACON RECORD
CK
$1.00
M O U N T S I N A I • M I L L E R P L AC E • S O U N D B E AC H • R O C K Y P O I N T • WA D I N G R I V E R • S H O R E H A M
Vol. 35, No. 48
June 18, 2020
Vol. 33,
Democratic candidates debate current issues before the June 23 primary
S TO N Y B R O OK • OLD F IELD • STRO NG’S
Vol. 45, No. 17
tbrnewsm
Votes Tallyresults ctselection l Distri Schoo and BOE Budget ORTH VE A3 E GRO N • LAK
June 18,
Results were unavailable Visit www.tbrnewsm at updates as they
a Grama
, Gabriell the Month: Island reviewed Staten y Men King of Also: The of The Takeawa preview
B1
SPACE RESERVED
ed, but be clos suffolkbus
Job interview
.com
s are easy,
Click on
private
FOR SUBSCRIBER
ADDRESS
we are
ng. still hiri
SPACE RESERVED
FOR SUBSCRIBER
B1
Three Village
FOR SUBSCRIBER ADDRESS
FOR SUBSCRIBER
ADDRESS
JEFFE
2020
RSON
Opportunity
Employer.
Back Stepping in Time
n generatio n upon prop up Generatio residents Academy of local Miller Place venerable
ed, but be clos
suffolkbus.com
Month Artist of theGrama Gabriella
read!
Job interview
s are
com
School may
g. still hirin
Click on
easy, private
the
& safe.
All interview
s will be
application
conducte
d by phone.
VILLE
Members group held of the Long Island
Although the Centers Control and If you’re Prevention and for Disease relevant State Department the New York link for an on-line application receivingClick on the Times Record the latest to your of Health have The of guidelines lives, please a new set news that do not consider for the first Port compreh from allow more a designated time, and an contact this an & safe. ensive areinvitation easy, private will be stories, conducted by phone. An Equal Opportunity Employer. than Job interviews number provocative introduct All interviews calendar, to our rights us with of customers time, as well inside our news tips; ion in at a to beneficial to trying times to our as no indoor to assure everyone about s are easy,these small everyone. is Lefkowitz newspap explore what’s We hopeletters page. or commun your family, bragging that businesses are Our is encouraging dining as of yet, er. “These businesses finished Job interview that when taking the extra precautions people to partake business ity in what the are our neighbors hard to professional looking in the wake friends,� she Three Village you’re or notices on groups; and staff works our family and us over, said. “They’re bring “They are providing of the pandemic. area has coming letters “If it’s done you informati the ones Our of subscribe you’ll join in a safe, social to offer. events. gloves to customers are the backbone of so, and employees, our communities.� who manner by both zation 44-year-old news rs. on A11.just fill out the Charlie Lefkowitz, taking temperatures, the owner and distanced wearing masks Island And please coupon To do you. will be privileged I support it strongly,� organithe public, president of chamber, said on page You can the feel encourag are enforced,� and making sure masks he said. that shopping King of Staten His favorite and browse also visit to serve small businesses said Jane Taylor, benefits the economic Also: The , preview of The spot? The ed to director of us online executive Inn’s outdoor Three Village growth of Long all www.tbr the chamber. “It supports our reviewed seating section. Island. Men “They’re being newsmed our features local economy “It was outstanding,� Takeaway our great community at ia.com. and keeps he said. “We’re supporting our vibrant,� he said. neighbors and was unparalleled.� the service
an on-line link for
suffolkbus. Opportunity
we are
ON • T ERRY
The hundr a congratulato Open Source Medica Chamber Says ry car parade eds of memb School may be closed, but we are still hiring. l Supplies health in Port Jeff ers helped ‘We’re Open care worke craft June 14. rs during !’ Enjoy collected the pande over 40,000 of the 2,506
B1
A3
may School
S TAT I
During lthWho Helped e Pandem ic
COLORIN G BOOK
Generation upon generation of local residents up the venerable institution Insideprop -Subscr known as the Miller iptionPlace Only Academy and the free library within — A8 SPACE RESERVED
• POR T
items for
:
ADDRESS
An Equal
Port Jeff high schoole for own indepen rs craft stories A3 State Senatedebate$1.00 for New York District 1 nod A5 Comsewogue discuss graduatand PJ school ion plans districts A8
dent news • S TO N Y B R OOK UNIVE site Democr ats R S I T Y
TBR ARTIST
TERRE
June 18,
SPACE RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBER ADDRESS
as guidelines t to new A5 adap Gabriella esses Grama emic —
Artist of the Month:
Also:
All interview
An Equal
SPACE RESERVED
• P O Q U OT T
Thebusin King of Staten an on-line s reviewed, Island g pand hiring. ty link for Supplie of lThe Takeaway olk Coun preview ard durin Medica d by phone. Men are still conducte Suff Open Source s forw BY JULIANNE we June 14. B1 Jeff s will be movePort but MOSHER Island Members from parade in PPE forclosed, of the Long New York careful n about Chamber of Commercethe Three Village social distancing 40,000 of be Members congratulatory car encouraging applicatio want the community and to know that craft over may sidewalk a has also an on-line dining they are open link for where available.� sales or outdoor to serve. group held of members helpedSchool and ready ic. The group by phone. d Overseeing ds Last Click on the Cares. small week, the pandem conducte businesses with Gov. Andrew Setauket, The hundre (D) giving the s will be com Cuomo Old Field, Stony Brook, East Setauket in fit Long Island green workers during interview All light for shops on Taylor Island to open Long establishments said that supporting and & safe.their suffolkbus. the health care 2,506 items for nonpro local private during these chamber wants doors during Phase 2, collected n applicatio
the
& safe.
Votes
press time. edia.com for come in
Change Open to
Artist of
Employer.
• SOUTH SE TAU K E T
Artist of the Month: Gabriella Grama
Also: The King of Staten Island reviewed, preview of The Takeaway Men
• BELL E
Billy Williams Ins Billy Williams, AgentAgency Inc 218 Main St Setauket-East Setauket, NY 11733 Bus: 631-675-9550
Here’s the deal. I’ll be there for you.
An Equal
Opportunity
Employer.
The future has a lot of what ifs, and it’s a your corner and good feeling around the corner to have someone to help you plan in Like a good neighbor, for them. Call State Farm is me today. there. Ž
ÂŽ
be clos ed, but
suffolkbus
Job interview
.com
s are easy,
Š166417
may School
• E A S T S E TAU KET
June 18, 2020
School District Tallies
166768
For All ed Who Help e During th Pandemic
N E C K • S E TAU KET
$1.00
N
2020
RSON
nonprofi
166768
E • SELD
Vol.
Opportunity
tbrnews media.c om
JEFFE
private
Click on
& safe.
we are
PPE for mic. The group t Long Island has also Cares.
still hiri ng.
the
All interview
link for
s will
an on-line
applicatio n
be conduct ed by
phone.
Employer.
$1.00 KYLE BARR
R E AC H
Staten Islandy Men King of Also: The of The Takeawa preview
An Equal
$1.00
PORT
JULIANNE MOSHER
CENTE
166768
of
a Grama, 10 16, No. Month: Gabriellreviewed
No. 30
A5
JOHN GRIFFIN
ES The TIM B1
TOWN
SEQ R • NIS
tbrnewsmedia Dems.com Seek District 1 Nod
edia .com
A3
the
S M I T H TO PA R K • • KINGS
166768
Town s this sum public pool
Votes Tallyresults ctselection l Distri Schoo and BOE Budget
Artist of
ITH S of SM
Stepping The P O RT T IM Back The VIL LAG ES RE E TIM ES HE What’s Inside CORD Y RATime LD in COUNTR E For Al DL MID A LO N G A FORT S No. 17
Vol. 33,
166768
GREENLAW ON BAY •
RITA J. EGAN
ON • HUNTINGT
No. 11
JOHN GRIFFIN
THE
HUNTINGT
SELECT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
SELECT LENGTH OF SUBSCRIPTION
1 YEAR 2 YEARS 3 YEARS
5900 $9900 $11900
$
ď Ł ď Ł ď Ł
Out of County, additional $15 year.
ď Ł
Use this form to mail your subscription
ď Ł
or call 631–751–7744 or online at
tbrnewsmedia.com
ď Ł
The Village TIMES HERALD The Village BEACON RECORD The Port TIMES RECORD The TIMES of Smithtown The TIMES of Huntington & Northports The TIMES of Middle Country
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA, P.O. BOX 707 • SETAUKET, NY 11733 Please allow 4-6 weeks to start delivery and for any changes. Charge it on MasterCard or VISA
The blizzard of 1934 is remembered as one of the worst snowstorms this area has ever experienced. It snowed all day Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 19 and 20, tying up all inter-village transportation, with some villages being isolated and suffering food shortages. Drifts from ďŹ ve-to-10-feet high were reported, and many people stranded in stalled cars were rescued by volunteer groups. In many suburban central ofďŹ ces on Long Island and other places, the volume of calls ranged from two to two-anda-half times the normal number. In this photograph, 17 Centereach men stand holding their shovels as they assist with snow removal. Among these identiďŹ able are Pete Anderson, R. Stegemann, Peter Smith, Al Urlander, Chas Lambau and Frank Urban. Centereach mail carrier Charles Benson is indicated in the photograph by the number six below him.
A 1958 Mid-Island Mail article relates the reminiscences of longtime Centereach and Selden residents recalling the 1934 storm. Snowdrifts 10-to-15-feet high and inadequate snow clearing methods made transportation virtually impossible. Many days passed before there were more than four scholars in attendance out of the 18 children enrolled in the one-room schoolhouse. Arthur Murray recalled his father and his uncle Scudder Smith discussing hooking up Smith’s horse to the Murrays’ bobsled to transport their four children and the teacher to the school. Longtime residents Alice Rogers and Nancy Murray had to abandon their horse and buggy in the middle of a snowbank and trudge through hazardous drifts before ďŹ nding shelter at a neighbor’s home. Many local residents resorted to using clotheslines to transport food items from house to house.
Card # Exp. Date Security CVV# Zip Code
Name Address State
Zip
Phone Email Š169663
EXCELLENCE. WE MAKE AN ISSUE OF IT EVERY WEEK.
159749
Vol. 17,
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A11
From Cold Spring Harbor to Wading River – TBR NEWS MEDIA • Six Papers...Plus Our Website...One Price
CLASSIFIEDS 631.331.1154 or 631.751.7663 • www.tbrnewsmedia.com
CASH FOR ALL CARS AND CASH FOR JUNK CARS WANTED. No Key, No Title, NO Problem. Free Pick-up. Habla Espanol. Call 631-445-1848. See Display Ad for more info. JUNK CARS BOUGHT! We’ll Beat Any Price. Call 631-500-1015. See Display Ad for more info. EVEN MORE JUNK CARS BOUGHT! Hyundai/Kia Experts. We Pay the Highest prices for Hyundai’s and Kia’s. Call 631-500-1015. See Display for more info.
TOP CASH PAID FOR ALL TRUCKS, CARS, & VANS. Highest prices paid for fixable vehicles. Call Mark 631-258-7919. See Display for more information.
Musical Instruments
Auto Services Drive Out Breast Cancer: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup - 24hr Response Tax Deduction - Easy To Do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755
Health, Fitness & Beauty VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150. FREE shipping. Money back guaranteed! 1-855-579-8907
CLASSIFIED DEADLINE
is Tuesday at noon. If you want to advertise, do it soon!
631.751.7663
631.331.1154
Novenas ST. JUDE NOVENA May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus thy kingdom come. St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, Pray For Us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, Pray For Us. This prayer is never known to fail if repeated 9 times daily for 9 consecutive days. Publication should be promised. J.B.
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE! CALL 631.331.1154
631.331.1154
Š108920
class@tbrnewsmedia.com TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA
Finds Under 50
Schools/Instruction/ Tutoring
WINDOW DEFLECTORS for F-150 cab. Asking $35. Call 631-744-3722
COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and scholarship available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947- 0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)
Selling Your Used Car or Truck?
$44 FOR 4 WEEKS
PIANO - GUITAR - BASS All ages-levels-styles. Many local references. Recommended by all area schools. Tony Mann, 631-473-3443, 631-332-6005
20 WORD READER AD IN ALL 6 PAPERS PLUS ON OUR INTERNET SITE.
Finds Under 50 MONITOR ACER FLAT SCREEN #G185Ab, 18�wX11�h, paid $120 now $40, leave message 631-228-4232.
CALL CLASSIFIEDS AT 631–331– 1154 OR 631–751–7663
TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA 185 Route 25A, Setauket, New York 11733
NEW SUNBEAM BREADMAKER. $25 Call 631-732-2763
J]k[m]\ 9faeYdk >gj 9\ghlagf .(0 Jgml] ))* Hgjl B]^^]jkgf KlYlagf .+)&,/+&.+++ 8kYn]Yh]lYfaeYdj]k[m] 8kYn]Yh]lYfaeYdj]k[m]
Marley and Jasper are two senior dogs dumped at a high kill shelter. Their owners never looked back or asked if they’d been adopted or put down. They didn’t c are but we do. Do you have a hug and a couch for these two best friends?
Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator
alone I’m never
Life AlertÂŽ is always here for me.
REQUEST A FREE QUOTE!
877-516-1160
One touch of a button sends help fast,, 24/7 / . with
GPS !
FREE
7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!
+HOS 2Q WKH *R ÂŽ
COLLEGE APPLICATIONS DONE VIRTUALLY Find the Best-Fit college for you. Then lets craft the Perfect College Application. Understand what colleges are looking for. Then let me help you navigate the entire process, from the college essay, supplements, resumes to the deadlines. Reasonable Rates. References available. Call Joann: 631-338-9558
Please call or email and ask about our very reasonable rates.
Saving a Life EVERY 11 MINUTES
+HOS DW +RPH
TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440. (M-F 8am-6pm ET)
Schools/Instruction/ Tutoring
BLUES MAN PIANO TUNING Certified piano technician, 631-681-9723, bluesmanpianotuning@gmail.com, www.bluesmanpianotuning.com
Š107334
We Publish Novenas
or
Â?
Autos Wanted ***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest Cash Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Cash. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516-297-2277
Financial Services
WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED HHA, LPN, Nurse’s Aide, Childcare, Housekeeping & Day Workers. No Fees to Employers. Call Evons Services 516-505-5510
Š101641
Health, Fitness & Beauty
Automobiles/Trucks Vans/Rec Vehicles
Š105748
Automobiles/Trucks Vans/Rec Vehicles
:Yll]ja]k F]n]j F]]\ ;`Yj_af_&
Special Financing Available Subject to Credit Approval
*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.
108776
1-800-404-9776
108038
For a FREE brochure call:
Offer valid December 15, 2020 - March 1, 2021
PAGE A12 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
WE ARE:
• FIRST 20 WORDS
OFFICE
(40¢ each additional word)
1 Week $29.00 4 Weeks $99.00 DISPLAY ADS Call for rates.
SPECIALS*
tbrnewsmedia.com
©98619
GENERAL OFFICE 631–751–7744 Fax 631–751–4165
This Publication is Subject to All Fair Housing Acts OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday 10:00 am–4:00 pm
CONTACT US:
BASIC AD RATES
The Village TIMES HERALD The Village BEACON RECORD The Port TIMES RECORD The TIMES of Smithtown The TIMES of Middle Country The TIMES of Huntington, Northport & East Northport
*May change without notice REAL ESTATE FREE FREE FREE ACTION AD 20 words Merchandise DISPLAY ADS $44 for 4 weeks under Ask about our for all your used $50 15 words Contract Rates. merchandise 1 item only. EMPLOYMENT GARAGE SALE Fax•Mail•E-mail Buy 2 weeks of ADS $29.00 Drop Off any size BOXED 20 words Include Name, ad get 2 weeks Address, Phone # Free 2 signs with free placement of ad
The Classifieds Section is published by TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA every Thursday. Leah S. Dunaief, Publisher, Sheila Murray, Classifieds Director. We welcome your comments and ads. TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA will not be responsible for errors after the first week’s insertion. Please check your ad carefully. • Statewide or Regional Classifieds also available - Reach more than 7 million readers in New York’s community newspapers. Line ads 25 words : Long Island region $69 - $129 – New York City region $289 - $499 – Central region $29 - $59 – Western region $59 - $99 - Capital region $59 - $99 – all regions $389 - $689 words. $10 each additional word. Call for display ad rates.
DENTAL Insurance Physicians Mutual Insurance Company
A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve! CALL NOW!
FREE Information Kit
TBR News Media 185 Route 25A (Bruce Street entrance) Setauket, NY 11733 Call: 631-331-1154 or 631-751-7663
MAIL ADDRESS
TBR News Media Classifieds Department P.O. Box 707 Setauket, NY 11733
class@tbrnewsmedia.com CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS:
(631) 331–1154 or (631) 751–7663 Fax (631) 751–4165 class@tbrnewsmedia.com tbrnewsmedia.com FREE!
Get help paying dental bills and keep more money in your pocket
Don’t wait! Call now and we’ll rush you a FREE Information Kit with all the details.
Insurance Policy P150NY 6129
1-855-225-1434 Visit us online at
www.dental50plus.com/nypress MB17-NM003Ec
Walk-In Tubs
WALK-IN BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500 Backed by American Standard’s 140 years of experience Ultra low entry for easy entering & exiting Patented Quick Drain® Technology Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, INCLUDING labor backed by American Standard 44 Hydrotherapy jets for an invigorating massage Limited Time Offer! Call Today!
888-609-0248
Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/nypress
1\¼[ <I` <QUM
Print/Web Special $298 for 4 Week Run + 1 Free
6 Newspapers Plus Prime Exposure on Social Media FREE with ad + A small box ad on our website www.tbrnewsmedia.com with a direct link to yours. START NOW!
*Weekly - 47,100 Print & Web Readers • *Monthly - 48,400 Copies & Online 140,000+ Unique Visitors
©102462
TBR NEWS MEDIA 631–331–1154 or 631–751–7663 *Weekly & Monthly Averages can vary
107781
102779
You can get coverage before your next checkup
The following are some of our available categories listed in the order in which they appear. • Garage Sales • Computer Services • Announcements • Electricians • Antiques & Collectibles • Financial Services • Automobiles/Trucks etc. • Furniture Repair • Finds under $50 • Handyman Services • Health/Fitness/Beauty • Home Improvement • Merchandise • Lawn & Landscaping • Personals • Painting/Wallpaper • Novenas • Plumbing/Heating • Pets/Pet Services • Power Washing • Professional Services • Roofing/Siding • Schools/Instruction/Tutoring • Tree Work • Wanted to Buy • Window Cleaning • Employment • Real Estate • Cleaning • Residential Property • Commercial Property • Out of State Property DEADLINE: Tuesday at Noon
Savings Include an American Standard Right Height Toilet FREE! ($500 Value)
1-855-225-1434
This is real dental insurance — NOT just a discount plan
INDEX
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A13
E M PL OY M E N T / C A R E E R S Help Wanted
$18.50 NYC, $16 L.I. & up to $13.50 Upstate NY! If you need care from your relative, friend or neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as a personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA Program. No Certificates needed. Phone: 347-713-3553
COVID CLINIC VACCINE REGISTRATION STAFF, Clerical exp preferred. Stony Brook. Flex days/hours/shifts/$18-$19/hr. Mon-Sun; 8am-6:30pm. Apply: sbadministrativeservicesllc.appone.com
RIVERHEAD SCHOOL DISTRICT has the following positions available, school lunch monitors, special education aides, school bus drivers, substitute custodial workers, substitute special education aides & computer aides, substitute office assistants SEE THEIR DISPLAY AD FOR MORE INFORMATION.
;QWT #F %QWNF $G *GTG Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154
)ZM AW] 0QZQVO' Looking for a
NANNY, NURSE, MEDICAL BILLER, CHEF, DRIVER, COMPUTER PROGRAMMER, PRIVATE FITNESS TRAINER...?
CALL THE CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT ̆ ̆ WZ ̆ ̆
NEED HELP?
©108882
* Lunch Monitors: supervise elementary students during lunch and recess
HELP WANTED Boxed Ad Here
*Special Education Aides: assist students in various settings, benefits available
CALL
631–331–1154 OR 631–751–7663
BUY 2 WEEKS - GET 2 WEEKS
FREE! TIMES BEACON RECORD N E W S M E D I A
* Bus Driver, permanent and substitute: valid and clean NYS Driver’s License, CDL Class B preferred will train, benefits available for permanent employees *Substitute Custodial Workers: clean school buildings, able to lift up to 50 pounds *Substitute Special Education Aides & Computer Lab Aides: assist students in various settings
);3 )*7=< 7=: ;8-+1)4;
*Substitute Office Assistants: answer phones and perform clerical duties Requirements: High School Diploma, NYSED Fingerprint Clearance, Spanish Speaking Preferred.
Place your ad by Tuesday noon and it will appear in that Thursday’s editions.
Send letters of interest to Arlene Durkalski, Director of Personnel, 700 Osborn Avenue, Riverhead, NY 11901, e-mail: arlene.durkalski@riverhead.net, 631.369.7157 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Buy 4 weeks and get the 5th week
FREE (631) 751.7663 or (631) 331.1154
©101328
Professional Services Directory Ask about our 13 & 26 week special rates
(WWS`! ZIHKTPUPZ[YH[P]LZLY]PJLZSSJ HWWVUL JVT
Employment opportunities
Place Your
Place Your Ad in the
Double size • $296/4 weeks
95 375 :;65@ )9662 -SL_ KH`Z OV\YZ ZOPM[Z 4VU :\U" H ! WT
RIVERHEAD CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
PROF E S SION A L & B U SI N E S S Single size • $228/4 weeks
©108834
©101632
<ISM IL^IV\IOM WN W]Z 6WZ\P ;PWZM LQ[\ZQJ]\QWV :MIKP W^MZ ! ZMILMZ[
:LUK SL[[LY VM PU[LYLZ[ VY LTHPS [V *OYPZ /LPS H[ JOLPS'T[ZPUHP R U` \Z
*SLYPJHS L_W WYLMLYYLK :;65@ )9662 -SL_ KH`Z OV\YZ ZOPM[Z OV\Y 4VU :\U" H ! WT (WWS`! ZIHKTPUPZ[YH[P]LZL ]PJLZSSJ HWWVUL JVT
©108884
Mount Sinai School District School district aides, flexible hours available, send letter if interested or email to Chris Heil at cheil@mtsinai.k12.ny.us.
The State University of New York at Stony Brook (Stony Brook, NY) seeks Assistant Director, Global Initiatives. Responsible for state-side mgmt. for global institutes, global partnership development, & research-based global enrollment initiatives. Develop/implement strategies to attract students & meet university enrollment/financial goals. Utilize research data to forecast enrollment from diff. geog. areas; use data to inform int’l student outreach. Manage int’l student scholarship policy dev. Develop joint acad. programs w/ int’l partner institutions. For full job desc., req’s, & to apply: https://apptrkr.com/2124570
-SL_PISL OV\YZ H]HPSHISL ©108936
COVID VACCINATORS RN/LPN-Stony Brook Flex days/hrs/shifts. Mon-Sun: 8am-6:30pm. Apply:sbadministrativeservicesllc.appone.com
:*/663 +0:;90*; (0+,:
SCHOOL BUS AND VAN DRIVERS Best Pay/Benefits package in the industry Start at $25.19 Bus and $21.97 Van Call Huntington Coach today 631-2718931 www.huntingtoncoach.com
©105752
PUBLISHER’S EMPLOYMENT NOTICE: All employment advertising in this newspaper is subject to section 296 of the human rights law which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, disability, marital status, sex, age or arrest conviction record or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Title 29, U.S. Code Chap 630, excludes the Federal Gov’t. from the age discrimination provisions. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for employment which is in violation of the law. Our readers are informed that employment offerings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.
4V\U[ :PUHP :JOVVS +PZ[YPJ[
Help Wanted
©97602
Help Wanted
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE P
Blues Man Piano Tuning Brad Merila Certified Piano Technician 6 Barnwell Lane, Stony Brook
631.681.9723
bluesmanpianotuning@gmail.com bluesmanpianotuning.com ©108286
PAGE A14 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
SERV ICES Cesspool Services
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154
Fences
MR SEWERMAN CESSPOOL SERVICE All types of cesspool servicing, all work guaranteed, family owned and operated since 1985, 631-924-7502. Licensed and Insured.
Clean-Ups LET STEVE DO IT Clean-ups, yards, basements, whole house, painting, tree work, local moving and anything else. Totally overwhelmed? Call Steve @ 631-745-2598, leave message.
Decks DECKS ONLY BUILDERS & DESIGNERS Of Outdoor Living By Northern Construction of LI. Decks, Patios/Hardscapes, Pergolas, Outdoor Kitchens and Lighting. Since 1995. Lic/Ins. 3rd Party Financing Available. 105 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-651-8478. www.DecksOnly.com
Electricians
Landscape Materials
BLUSTAR CONSTRUCTION The North Shore’s Most Trusted Renovation Experts. 631-751-0751 We love small jobs too! Suffolk Lic. #48714-H, Ins. See Our Display Ad
SMITHPOINT FENCE. DEER PROBLEM? WE CAN HELP! Wood, PVC, Chain Link, Stockade. Free estimates. Now offering 12 month interest free financing. Commercial/Residential. 70 Jayne Blvd., PJS. Lic.37690-H/Ins. 631-743-9797 www.smithpointfence.com.
LAMPS FIXED, $65. In Home Service!! Handy Howard. My cell 646-996-7628
Floor Services/Sales FINE SANDING & REFINISHING Wood Floor Installations Craig Aliperti, Wood Floors LLC. All work done by owner. 28 years experience. Lic.#47595-H/Insured. 631-875-5856
THE GENERAC PWRCELL, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-888-871-0194
Lawn & Landscaping
Furniture/Restoration/ Repairs
SETAUKET LANDSCAPE DESIGN Stone Driveways/Walkways, Walls/Stairs/Patios/Masonry, Brickwork/Repairs Land Clearing/Drainage,Grading/ Excavating. Plantings/Mulch, Rain Gardens. Steve Antos, 631-689-6082 setauketlandscape.com Serving Three Villages
REFINISHING & RESTORATION Antiques restored, repairing recane, reupholstery, touch-ups kitchen, front doors, 40 yrs exp, SAVE$$$, free estimates. Vincent Alfano 631-707-1228
Home Improvement
Masonry CARL BONGIORNO LANDSCAPE/MASON CONTRACTOR All phases Masonry Work:Stone Walls, Patios, Poolscapes. All phases of Landscaping Design. Theme Gardens. Residential & Commercial. Lic/Ins. 631-928-2110
Miscellaneous DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-888-609-9405
SWAN COVE LANDSCAPING Lawn Maintenance, Clean-ups, Shrub/Tree Pruning, Removals. Landscape Design/Installation, Ponds/Waterfalls, Stone Walls. Firewood. Free estimates. Lic/Ins.631-689-8089
ALL PHASES OF HOME IMPROVEMENT From attic to your basement, RCJ Construction www.rcjconstruction.com commercial/residential, lic/ins 631-580-4518.
SCREENED TOP SOIL Mulch, compost, decorative and driveway stone, concrete pavers, sand/block/portland. Fertilizer and seed. JOS. M. TROFFA MATERIALS CORP. 631-928-4665, www.troffa.com
GET DIRECTV! ONLY $35/month! 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies on Demand. (w/SELECT All Included Package). PLUS Stream on Up to FIVE Screens Simultaneously at No Additional Cost. Call DIRECTV, 1-888-534-6918
Painting/Spackling/ Wallpaper ALL PRO PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR Power Washing, Staining, Wallpaper Removal. Free estimates. Lic/Ins #19604HI 631-696-8150. Nick BOB’S PAINTING SERVICE 25 Years Experience. Interior/Exterior Painting, Spackling, Staining, Wallpaper Removal, Staining and Deck Restoration Power Washing. Free Estimates. Lic/Ins. #17981. 631-744-8859 COUNTY-WIDE PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR Painting/Staining. Quality workmanship. Living and Serving Three Village Area for over 30 years. Lic#37153-H. 631-751-8280 LaROTONDA PAINTING & DESIGN Interior/exterior, sheetrock repairs, taping/spackling, wallpaper removal, Faux, decorative finishings. Free estimates. Lic.#53278-H/Ins. Ross LaRotonda 631-689-5998 WORTH PAINTING “PAINTING WITH PRIDE� Interiors/exteriors. Staining & deck restoration, power-washing, wallpaper removal, sheetrocktape/spackling, carpentry/trimwork. Lead paint certified. References. Free estimates. Lic./Ins. SINCE 1989 Ryan Southworth. See Display Ad. 631-331-5556
AUTOMOTI V E SERV ICES JUNK CARS BOUGHT 631.500.1015
DMV CERTIFIED 7002706
PLEASE CALL US FOR DETAILS AND SPECIAL RATES. Š107135
631.331.1154 OR 631.751.7663
Highest prices paid for fixable vehicles. Also buy motorcycles and muscle cars.
ARBOR-VISTA TREE CARE A COMPLETE TREE CARE SERVICE devoted to the care of trees. Maintenance pruning, water-view work, sun-trimming, elevating, pool areas, storm thinning, large tree removal, stump grinding. Wood chips. Lic#18902HI. Free estimates. 631-246-5377 RANDALL BROTHERS TREE SERVICE Planting, pruning, removals, stump grinding. Free Estimates. Fully insured. LIC# 50701-H. 631-862-9291 SUNBURST TREE EXPERTS Since 1974, our history of customer satisfaction is second to none. Pruning/removals/planting, plant health care. Insect/ Disease Management. ASK ABOUT GYPSY MOTH AND TICK SPRAYS Bonded employees. Lic/Ins. #8864HI 631-744-1577
BIG BIG BIG BIG BIG BIG BIG
small space
BIG
RESULTS
BIG BIG BIG BIG BIG BIG BIG
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE C
JUNK CARS BOUGHT
DVN IRU PDUN Ă’
CA$H FOR ALL CAR$ & CA$H FOR JUNK CAR$ WANTED No Keys No Title No Problem
FREE Pickup Habla EspaĂąol
Lic. # 7112911/Ins.
(631) 445-1848
CALL US LAST WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE LICENSED • BONDED INSURED
Š107058
USED AUTO PARTS
631.500.1015
Š107937
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES DIRECTORY
Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Domestic/Foreign Š107669
Hyundais and Kias
LICENSED • BONDED INSURED
All Trucks, Cars & Vans
Š108933
Hyundai/Kia Experts New & Used Auto Parts We Pay the Highest Prices for
723 &$6+ 3$,'
Tree Work
Š105751
SOUNDVIEW ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING Prompt* Reliable* Professional. Residential/Commercial, Free Estimates. Ins/Lic#57478-ME. Owner Operator, 631-828-4675 See our Display Ad in the Home Services Directory
Home Improvement
DMV CERTIFIED 7002706
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A15
HOME SERV ICES
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE B
3(47: -0?,+
Additions & renovations, decks, windows, doors, siding, kitchens, baths, roofs & custom carpentry. We love small jobs too!
ALL PRO PAINTING
Owner/Operator has 25+ years serving The North Shore
$// :25. *8$5$17((' )5(( (67,0$7(6
Please call our Stony Brook office today for a FREE in home consultation
,17(5,25 ‡ (;7(5,25 ‡ 32:(5:$6+,1* &86720 :25. ‡ 67$,1,1* ‡ :$//3$3(5 5(029$/
(;3(5,(1&(' $1' 5(/,$%/( /,&(16(' + ,1685('
Â?
www.BluStarBuilders.com
Š98213
Nick Cordovano 631–696–8150
Lic. #48714-H & Insured
5&-
INTERIOR • EXTERIOR
CO N S T R U C T I O N
Taping Spackling
From Your Attic To Your Basement
All Phases of Home Improvement
Decorative Finishes
Power Washing
K I TC H E N S • B AT H R O O M S • D O O R S • W I N D O W S • T I L E • F LO O R I N G
COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL • LIC. #H-32198/INS | OWNER OPERATED
Š98354
(631) 580-4518
Š108383
www.rcjconstruction.com
Wallpaper Removal
PAINTING & DESIGN
Âś Âś
0\ &HOO p
Your Professional Ad Could Be Here! Please call us for details and special rates or 631Call 631-
Š107289
331-1154
751–7663
&UDLJ $OLSHUWL :RRG )ORRUV //&
)LQH 6DQGLQJ 5HÂż QLVKLQJ
2))
:RRG )ORRU ,QVWDOODWLRQV 2OG :RRG )ORRUV 0DGH %HDXWLIXO $OO :RUN 'RQH %\ 2ZQHU
C U S TO M F I N I S H E D C A R P E N T R Y & M O L D I N G
SPECIALIZING IN FINISHED BASEMENTS
Š102164
(631) 744-1577
,Q +RPH 6HUYLFH +DQG\ +RZDUG
<($56 (;3(5,(1&( Faux Finishes
)RUPHUO\ 2I $ +XQWLQJWRQ )DWKHU 6RQÂśV %XVLQHVV /LF + ,QVXUHG
Lic. # 53278-H/Ins.
Š106364
Š107602
Construction
EXTRAORDINARY
HOME SERVICES WEB COMBO PROMOTION &RPSOHWH \RXU DGYHUWLVLQJ SODQ
$1'
*HW PD[LPXP H[SRVXUH ZLWK RXU ZHE SUHPLXP RQ OLQH EDQQHU RU ER[ DG ZLWK WEUQHZVPHGLD FRP
POWER WASHING
“We take pride in our work�
35,&(6 0$< 1(9(5 %( 7+,6 /2: $*$,1
FREE ESTIMATES
Ryan Southworth 631-331-5556
Licensed/Insured
89810
#37074-H; RI 18499-10-34230
CERTIFIED LEAD PAINT REMOVAL
Since 1989
Š106304
Š107291
&DOO &ODVVLĂ€ HGV RU \RXU DFFRXQW UHSUHVHQWDWLYH IRU GHWDLOV RU
• Interiors • Exteriors • Cabinet Refinishing, Staining & Painting • Faux Finishes • Power Washing • Wallpaper Removal • Tape & Spackling • Staining & Deck Restoration BBB A1 Rating #1 Recommendation on BBB website
PAGE A16 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
HOME SERV ICES
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 PAGE A
5$1'$// %527+(56 7 5 ( ( 6 ( 5 9, & (
*7*Âź; 8)16<16/ ;-:>1+ A - ) :; -@ 8-: 1-6+-
0 $ 7 ( 5 , $ / 6 & 2 5 3
7 _ V M Z 7 X M Z I \ M L ; Q V K M !
CALLS PROMPTLY RETURNED
.:-- -;<15)<-; 4QK 1V[ !
!
:DOO 6WRQH 0RVV 5RFN 'LYH 5RFN 6WHSSLQJVWRQHV %RXOGHUV *UDYHO 6DOW 6DQG 5RFN 6DOW 'HFRUDWLYH 6WRQH %ORFN 3RUWODQG 0RUWDU 1HZ DQG 8VHG &REEOHVWRQHV 55 7LHV )HUWLOL]HU 3LSH 'UDLQDJH 6WRQH DQG 6XSSOLHV %XUODS *UDVV 6HHG DQG 7RROV
3ODQWLQJ ‡ 3UXQLQJ ‡ 5HPRYDOV ‡ 6WXPS *ULQGLQJ
)UHH (VWLPDWHV
REFERENCES GLADLY GIVEN 100651
7RSVRLO 0XOFK &RPSRVW
)LQH 6DQG 3DYHU 6DQG &RQFUHWH 6DQG
Â?
‡ ,QWHULRUV ‡ ([WHULRUV ‡ 3RZHUZDVKLQJ ‡ 6WDLQLQJ 'HFN 5HVWRUDWLRQ ‡ :DOOSDSHU 5HPRYDO ‡ *XWWHU &OHDQLQJ ‡ 6SDFNOLQJ :DOO 5HVWRUDWLRQ
&RPVHZRJXH 5RDG 6XLWH (DVW 6HWDXNHW
9,1&(17 $/)$12 )851,785( 5(6725$7,21
DECKS ONLY
343 So. Country Rd., Brookhaven
ÂŽ
BUILDERS & DESIGNERS OF OUTDOOR LIVING BY NORTHERN CONSTRUCTION OF LI INC.
Licensed/Insured
PICK-UP & DELIVERY
Š107337
105 Broadway Greenlawn 631.651.8478 www.DecksOnly.com
• Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing • Upholstery • Table Pads • Water & Fire Damage Restoration • Insurance Estimates Licensed/Insured
• Free In-House 3D Design • Financing Available Š96778
9LZPKLU[PHS *VTTLYJPHS ‹ :LY]PJL <WNYHKLZ ‹ 5L^ *VUZ[Y\J[PVU ‹ 9LUV]H[PVUZ ‹ ;YV\ISLZOVV[PUN ‹ *LPSPUN -HUZ /PNOOH[Z ‹ .LULYH[VYZ ‹ ( * >PYPUN ‹ 7VVS /V[ ;\I >PYPUN ‹ 3HUKZJHWL 3PNO[PUN
ZV\UK]PL^LSLJ[YPJ'OV[THPS JVT
Lic. #57478-ME
(3rd party)
7YVTW[ ‹ 9LSPHISL ‹ 7YVMLZZPVUHS ‹ 3PJLUZLK 0UZ\YLK -YLL ,Z[PTH[LZ ‹ 6^ULY 6WLYH[LK
Custom Built – Decks • Patios/Hardscapes Pergolas • Outdoor Kitchens • Lighting
Š90878
<RXU VRXUFH IRU ORFDO QHZV XSGDWHV RQOLQH
tbrnewsmedia.com
DEER PROBLEM? WE CAN HELP.
\RX FDQ JHW WKHUH IURP KHUH
Now offering 12 month interest-free financing
Specializing in all phases of fencing: Wood • PVC • Chain Link • Stockade OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE
New Location
FREE ESTIMATES COMMERCIAL/ RESIDENTIAL
Š105746
70 Jayne Blvd., Port Jeff Station (631) 743-9797
Š105004
Š108607
631.707.1228
)XOO\ ,QVXUHG /,& +
Since 1995 Family Owned & Operated
::: (;3(57)851,785(5(6725$7,21 &20 Family Owned & We Can Repair Anything! Complete Woodworking & Finishing Shop 40 Years Experience
Give Your Furniture A Facelift for the Holiday
631-862-9291 516-319-2595 (cell & text)
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A17
R E A L ESTATE PUBLISHERS’ NOTICE All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.� We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
Offices For Rent/Share
Professional Properties
Rentals
25A SETAUKET On way to supermarkets. Hi visibility office for rent on 25A in charming stand alone professional office building. 650 sq. ft. Private entrance, 2 private bathrooms, private A/C and heating controls. Built-in bookcases. Light and bright. Ample parking. Previous tenants included; an attorney, an accountant and a software developer. Call 631-751-7744.
SETAUKET, 25 A CORNER OFFICE SUITE: high visibility, large plate glass window, private bath, own thermostat, private entrance, off street parking. Village Times Building. Call 631-751-7744
WATERVIEWS PORT JEFFERSON VILLAGE beautiful newly updated 2 bedroom, full bath, a/c, parking available, heart of village, $2,700 per month Coach Realtor Loretta Bove 631-928-5484.
Rentals
Rentals to Share
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE! CALL 631.331.1154
Š105748
Commercial Property/ Yard Space
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154
MIDDLE ISLAND MIXED USE PROPERTY. Final approval for residential townhouses, professional, medical, and retail. $2.5M Coach Realtors, Loretta Bove 631-928-5484
5HQWLQJ RU 6HOOLQJ <RXU +RXVH"
2XU WUDFN UHFRUG 2XU WUDFN UHFRUG 75< LV WKH EHVW RI DQ\ 7,0(6 %($&21 5(&25' ORFDO QHZVSDSHU 1 ( : 6 3 $ 3 ( 5 6 &DOO XV IRU VSHFLDO UDWHV %X\ ZHHNV *HW ZHHNV IUHH
OFFICE MATEEAST SETAUKET Pyschotheraphy office, bathroom and waiting room to share, great location, highly desirable. 631-767-5153, JanninePergolla11@gmail.com
TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 751-7744 Š101869
Š104956
COMMERCI A L PROPERT Y
ADS
SETAUKET
COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY SINGLE $189.00 4 wks + 1 FREE DOUBLE $277.00 4 wks + 1 FREE CALL 631-751-7663 • 631-331-1154
+LJK YLVLELOLW\ RIĂ€FH IRU UHQW RQ $ LQ FKDUPLQJ VWDQG DORQH SURIHVVLRQDO RIĂ€FH EXLOGLQJ
 Â? Â? Â? Â? Â? Â? Â
&DOO
or Selling Commercial/Professional Property? Are You... Leasing,ThisRenting is a prime opportunity to reach your target audience both principals & brokers Š101873
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY • YARD SPACE • LAND/LOTS FOR SALE • OFFICES FOR RENT/SHARE • PREFAB BUILDINGS PROFESSIONAL PROPERTIES • RETAIL SPACE • STORAGE SPACE • WAREHOUSE SPACE For more information or to reserve space, call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154 TOWN HALL
HARMACY
CAFE
GROCERY
TOWN HALL
HEALTH MARKET
TOYS
REAL ESTATE
CAFE
Shoes
Boutique
ART
PHARMACY
CAFE
GROCERY
MARKET
Š108550
Š108547
DEADLINE: TUESDAY NOON FOR THURSDAY’S PAPER.
$ 6(7$8.(7
High Visibility • 25A Corner Office Suite with large plate glass window. Private bath • Own thermostat Private entrance OFF STREET PARKING Village Times Building Available Immediately Call: 631.751.7744
Š101304
•
Place your ad today Call 631.751.7663 or 631.331.1154
PAGE A18 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
Editorial Get in line — if you can find it
You would think a global pandemic that has lasted nearly a year would have gotten New York more organized, right? In the beginning, none of us had any idea what was going on with COVID-19. Every day was a new battle, and we had to evolve everything in our lives constantly. That was OK. It was fair. The virus was new and we, as Americans, never experienced anything like this before. There was a learning curve. Back in March, April and even into June, it was a little more understandable knowing that getting tested for the coronavirus was hard. We didn’t have enough testing, supplies or even gloves for the nurses and doctors to wear as they administered the swab. Fine. But why is it almost February 2021 and we still have practically no organizational skills? Why is it that New Yorkers are told one thing about testing and now vaccines, but when they try to take advantage of it, they’re denied? We have co-workers, family members and friends who should be getting their vaccines. They’re in the most at-risk age group, they’re workers in a medical office but aren’t first responders, they’re out in the public, working as cashiers at grocery stores and big-box retailers taking money from people they don’t know. Why can’t they get the vaccine yet? Reports say that there isn’t enough available yet — and supplies, once again, are low. We understand that. We understand that there are more than 7 million people on Long Island alone. But what we don’t understand is why there’s little transparency, and contradicting reports. Why can some people get it and others cannot? We have heard stories of some elderly people who cannot get an appointment at all, and no one is there to help them. We hear other stories that people waited in line for nearly five hours. Other stories say that they drove up to the site and were finished in 10 minutes. We just want answers. We want a plan. We want a serious plan that will give us a play-by-play on what to do, what to expect and a timeline. Curveballs will happen. We saw that a lot in 2020. But clearly the federal, state and local governments did not have “to stay organized with anything related to COVID” on their New Year’s resolutions list. This is not the time to go with the flow. Lives are at stake.
WRITE TO US … We welcome your letters. They should be no longer than 400 words and may be edited for length, libel, style and good taste. We do not publish anonymous letters. Please include a phone number and address for confirmation. Email letters to julianne@tbrnewsmedia.com or mail them to The Times of Middle Country P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733.
Letters to the Editor
Town of Brookhaven’s 2021 goals At the beginning of every year, I tend to look back at the year that just passed to see what the Town has accomplished. Then I look forward to the new year and set goals on what should be accomplished in 2021. So, I have listed below a set of goals/resolutions for the Town of Brookhaven to accomplish in 2021. Fighting the pandemic Helping the state and federal government fight this pandemic by offering town recreation and senior centers as vaccination sites to ensure that as many residents get vaccinated as quickly as possible. It is also important to continue helping small business to recover and grow and heal our economy, which is why I work closely with the Small Business Recovery Task Force. Continued strong fiscal management Continuing strong fiscal management in maintaining the town’s AAA bond rating by both Moody’s and Standard & Poor. Also, working to
ensure that the town stays within the tax cap and limits property taxes as much as possible. Continued preservation of land and environmental initiatives Continuing land purchases along the stream and river corridors as well as other open space acquisition, expanding oyster seeding in north shore harbors Emphasis on renewable energy Work with Orsted Wind to support state initiatives on wind power as well as placing 50-80 acres of solar on top of the capped landfill. Waste management Working to cap and close the existing landfill is a top priority as well as expanding recycling participation among residents. Working with Assemblyman Engelbright to support his bill on Extended Producer Responsibility advocating for reduced packaging, a bigger better bottle bill and for New York State to give Beneficial Use Determination for the
reuse of glass and ash. Redevelopment of Port Jefferson Station Utilizing the newly adopted redevelopment code to revitalize Port Jefferson Station with mixed retail and housing that has the support of the local civic association. Infrastructure improvements Continue our efforts to secure County, State, and Federal funding for desperately needed infrastructure projects including road re-paving, drainage work, dredging, sewers, etc. This is a brief to-do list for Brookhaven Town for 2021. Working with our Town Board, Town Clerk, Tax Receiver and Highway Superintendent and other levels of government, we hope to accomplish most if not all items on this list during 2021. Edward P. Romaine Brookhaven Town Supervisor
Much as I would prefer to let go [Suffolk County Legislator] Robert Trotta’s [R-Fort Salonga] claim that U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin [R-NY1] is “seeking to prevent further national division during this volatile time,” I cannot for a simple reason: It’s just not true. On the very day President Joe Biden [D] was inaugurated calling for unity and bipartisanship, Zeldin blasted out an email attacking the new president’s “radical agenda” and ranting about “power-hungry elites on the far left.” This is not the rhetoric of someone trying to prevent division. One of the first groups Zeldin met with after he entered Congress in 2015 was Oath Keepers. This is the same fringe group founded by a man who had already called John McCain a “traitor” who should be “hung by the neck until dead.” That’s the same heavily armed group now identified by federal authorities as being in the thick of the insurrectionist mob which ransacked the Capitol and threatened to murder Vice President Mike Pence [R] and members of Congress. This is not the company kept by someone seeking bipartisanship.
After the insurrectionist mob was finally cleared out of the Capitol by police officers, one of whom was already fatally injured at its hands, Zeldin unashamedly voted to nullify millions of votes in two states, propagating the “stop the steal” lie that was responsible for the murderous riot in the first place. I have yet to see any statement from Zeldin that he’s sorry or that either he or former President Donald Trump [R] did anything wrong. Even Kevin McCarthy [R], the minority leader in the House and certainly no moderate, acknowledged that Trump “bears responsibility” for the “attack on Congress by mob rioters.” But from Zeldin, nothing — only attacks on Democrats to deflect from what happened. This is not the behavior of someone who wants to heal division. Zeldin’s voting record is not at all bipartisan. The computerized index of bipartisanship cited by Trotta is essentially meaningless, because it relies exclusively on whether a lawmaker sponsors or co-sponsors legislation with members of the opposite party. It ignores a lawmaker’s voting record. It ignores the importance of the legislation, such
as whether it names a post office, or is nothing more than a symbolic gesture cosponsoring a bill destined never to make it out of committee. It’s a great way to mislead, though. As for all the supposed “accomplishments” Trotta cites on Zeldin’s behalf, Zeldin was simply doing what any warm body representing the 1st Congressional District would do, namely, lobbying for as much pork for our district as he could possibly procure. Congressmen love to brag about their supposed accomplishments bringing home the bacon and to make out that they alone did it. The reality is that most or all of this would have happened with somebody else representing us. Let’s be honest. Far from being a unifier, Zeldin early on calculated that his best political strategy was to pander to his Trump base, echo Trump’s falsehoods and act as a Republican attack dog. Whether this strategy will continue to work for him, as the true cost of the chaos and divisiveness of the Trump era becomes clearer, remains to be seen. David Friedman St. James
Zeldin’s actions are not bipartisan
The opinions of columnists and letter writers are their own. They do not speak for the newspaper.
January 28, 2021 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • PAGE A19
Opinion
Living in an allegorical world
M
any years ago, Madonna, and the rest of us, were “Living in a Material World.” Well, it seems to me that we are now living in an allegorical world. You see, we’re on a boat that’s in rough seas. We are in the middle of a Corona storm, with howling winds that threaten to rip the sails off the masts. At the same time, the boat has numerous leaks, while the waves from the right and D. None from the left crash of the above into the ship. BY DANIEL DUNAIEF The modern day Montagues are blaming the waves from the left for causing the danger to our ship. Without those waves, we would be able to
head off in a glorious direction toward a better sunset. At the same time, the Capulets are shouting at the waves on the right, suggesting that they have interrupted the magnificent journey, making the ship spin and rock out of control. Never a dull moment on that ship of ours, the former captain of the ship, who reluctantly removed his steely grip from the wheel, is facing an imminent investigation from a team comprised mostly of the Capulets, who have recruited a few members of the Montagues to engage in an extensive trial. The majority of the Montagues have a Greek chorus that laments the terrible state of affairs and encourages the new captain, whom they don’t particularly like or trust, to make sure their way of life continues and their voices continue to be important in the search for Truth, Justice and the American Way. At the same time, the Capulets have lined up a group of people who are just as earnest and eager in their beliefs, urging the captain
to ensure the future safety of the ship and all its inhabitants. Passing people buffeted about in life rafts, some Montagues urge the captain to move on and to focus resources and efforts on the people aboard the ship. Some Capulets, on the other hand, believe the people who built the ship in the first place were, at one time or another, adrift in life rafts themselves and would like to provide refuge and safety to these wayward travelers. All the while, the Corona winds, which started our violently, calmed down quite a bit during the summer, and have increased in intensity following Thanksgiving and the December holidays, have increased in their intensity, tearing holes in the sails and threatening to pull at the seams of the stars and stripes. Somewhere in the middle of the ship, people who don’t define themselves as either ardent Montagues or Capulets are tending to the wounded, preparing food for others, ensuring law and order, and making the kind
of shields that deflect the wind, protecting individuals and the group. The howling wind has made it difficult for the Capulets and the Montagues to hear each other, but that hasn’t stopped either of them from pointing fingers or from blaming the other side for the condition of the waterlogged ship. People on this American vessel have heard that ships from other nations have made it out of the storm and are enjoying calmer seas, with warm sunshine and gentle breezes. Some day, hopefully before too long, people on both sides will figure out a way to work together, to patch the holes in the sails, to help each other and to help take the ship to calmer waters. The Corona storm isn’t passing on its own and the residents of the ship need to pull in the same direction to maneuver to the familiar, calmer seas, where residents of the ship can, once again, enjoy peace, good health and prosperity.
Surviving all the way to the COVID-19 vaccine
A
s they say in literature, it is the best of times and the worst of times. You could almost say it is also a tale of two cities. Yes, the vaccine has now been developed and produced to counter the novel coronavirus. We will require two shots, whether we get the Moderna or the PfizerBioNTech brand, and there may even be a third possibility, one from Johnson & Johnson, that will only be a one shot deal. That’s the wonderful news. Between Less than you and me wonderful is the BY LEAH S. DUNAIEF distribution thus far. Despite best intentions, it has been spotty and disorganized. Locations that are supposed to be vaccination sites have had to turn people away because they have run out of the vaccine or never received the shipment
to begin with. Getting an appointment, as opposed to standing optimistically for hours in a line, has become an exercise of pounding the keyboard of the computer or dialing on the phone for hours on end, looking for a slot with availability. Just about everyone I know is being helped by their children and grandchildren in this frustrating pursuit of inoculation. Those who have received the shot are living in a different city from those who have not. To complicate the already complicated situation, the wily virus is doing what viruses do: mutating ahead of the vaccines. So far, the pharmaceutical companies are saying that their products are effective against the new strains, perhaps a little less so against the variant from South Africa than the one from the United Kingdom. Brazil has a variant as well. And while non-American citizens originating in those countries are, for the moment, banned from entering the United States, scientists know those mutations are already here, having arrived before the ban, from Britain and Brazil so far and most probably South Africa as well.
TIMES BEACON RECORD NEWS MEDIA We welcome letters, photographs, comments and story ideas. Send your items to P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733 or email julianne@tbrnewsmedia.com. Times Beacon Record Newspapers are published every Thursday. Subscription $59/year • 631-751-7744 www.tbrnewsmedia.com • Contents copyright 2021
Worse than potentially evading the vaccines is the increased degree of contagion those viruses already possess. The knowledge that scientists are already hard at work catching up to the newer strains is comforting. Such an adjustment could take six weeks, however, according to Moderna. Or perhaps a third shot of the existing vaccine might work against the variant. So while the vaccine may be the best of times, we still have to get there, and the worst is now upon us. Sooner or later, we hope sooner, we will get the logistics of distribution worked out, but most of us will not reach that point of inoculation until midsummer or fall at the earliest. Meanwhile more people will become ill, especially in the poorer nations unable to buy vaccines in large quantities. And with our global interactions, what pathogens exist elsewhere in the world will also come here with their new mutations. So what can we do to help ourselves through these next few months? Let’s remember that a simple handful of actions we already have taken can keep the
EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Leah S. Dunaief GENERAL MANAGER Johness Kuisel MANAGING EDITOR Rita J. Egan EDITOR Julianne Mosher
LEISURE EDITOR Heidi Sutton COPY EDITOR John Broven ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kathleen Gobos
viruses at bay. Washing our hands thoroughly, multiple times a day ( I practically bathe in hand lotion after all those washings); maintaining social distancing of at least 6 feet, preferably 15 feet, inside as well as outside; and wearing masks are effective defenses, if only we follow them. Working remotely and limiting travel have further contributed to containment. On the subject of wearing masks, and at the risk of boring you with repetition because I wrote about this last week, I want to urge you to consider wearing two masks. Since the new strains are more contagious, meaning they can spread more readily, having a double barrier for them to pass through doubles our chances of escaping the disease. The growing recommendation is to wear a surgical mask underneath and a cloth mask on top. I have tried it and find this no more uncomfortable than a single mask, and I am happier with the thought of being better protected. I throw away the surgical mask and wash the cloth one often to preserve its effectiveness, making for myself a sort of double-bagged wall.
ART AND PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Beth Heller Mason INTERNET STRATEGY DIRECTOR Rob Alfano CLASSIFIEDS DIRECTOR Sheila Murray
BUSINESS MANAGER Sandi Gross CREDIT MANAGER Diane Wattecamps CIRCULATION MANAGER Courtney Biondo SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Sheila Murray
PAGE A20 • THE TIMES OF MIDDLE COUNTRY • January 28, 2021
A 55+ LUXURY R E N TA L CO M M U N I TY
W E L CO M E H O M E TO YO U R S T Y L E O F L I V I N G Experience a 55+ luxury lifestyle rental community featuring open floor plans, upscale interior design, and resort-style amenities. Indulge in the heated outdoor pool, spend mornings on the walking trail, or visit the on-site dog park. Plus, enjoy a robust social calendar designed by a dedicated event coordinator, join friends at the clubhouse sports bar, and train in our state-of-the-art fitness center and yoga studio. It’s all here – all we need is you!
SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! 300 Sutton Court, Mount Sinai, NY 11766 631.239.7090 | suttonlanding.com
Equal Housing Opportunity 169640