News by Robert Chartuk
News by Robert Chartuk on South Shore Press
Joe DeStefano for NY State Assembly Reelection Endorsement
Joe DeStefano is seeking his fourth term as the state Assembly representative from the 3rd District, which extends through central and south Brookhaven from his hometown of Medford. DeStefano is well known in these communities, having served as an elected Fire District commissioner for 28 years and 44 years as a firefighter and ambulance company volunteer.
Harris Harangued for Hurricane Response
As Long Islanders join in the nationwide effort to gather supplies for those devastated by Hurricane Helene, the federal government's response to the tragedy has become a presidential campaign issue with charges that emergency funds were diverted to support illegal immigrants.
Center Moriches Native Sydney Chartuk
Family and friends gathered recently to remember Center Moriches native Sydney Chartuk, who passed away at her home in Claremont, DE.
Vet Fest Highlights Services for Those Who Served
A broad range of services was presented over the weekend at a special event with the mission of preventing suicide among the area's military veterans. Hosted at the Pal-o-Mine Ranch in Islandia, the "Vet Fest" was sponsored by the Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition and featured over three dozen organizations available to those who served.
Supplies Headed South to Help Hurricane Victims
Pallet loads of supplies donated by Long Islanders are on their way south to the victims of Hurricane Helene thanks to the efforts of the Brookhaven Fire Department Auxiliary.
Port Strike on Hold
Workers at America's major ports are back in the job as dock workers consider a 62% wage increase. The offer is good for 90 days as the two sides try to reach an agreement on automation and other issues.
Port Strike Spurs Run on Essentials
Toilet paper has been flying off the shelves as word spreads of a strike by port workers that could paralyze shipping on the East Coast.
Prop 1: Woke Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
On the reverse side of this year's election ballot is a proposition that promises equal rights to all residents. A closer look at this Constitutional Amendment pushed by the Progressive Left, however, shows a host of freedoms that many New Yorkers may not subscribe to.
Whale of an Attack on RFK, Jr.
The world witnessed another example of how far the weaponized U.S. government will go to destroy someone who speaks out against it when an investigation was opened on former presidential candidate turned Trump supporter RFK, Jr. for taking a sample of a whale carcass for study 25 years ago.
Historic Brookhaven Photos on Display at Clerk's Office
A gallery of historical photos is on display at the Brookhaven Clerk's office at Town Hall in Farmingville. "In honor of our town's rich history, we have placed historic images around our office to reflect on and admire how far our town has come," said Brookhaven Clerk Kevin LaValle, who worked with Town Historian Barbara Russell in curating the collection. "Our Town has 369 years of rich history, and I take great pride in serving this historic community as the 44th Town Clerk," LaValle said.
Natural Pest Control at Historic Manor of St. George
A natural pest control program at the historic Manor of St. George has dramatically decreased the tick and mosquito population on the 127-acre Mastic estate. 
The South Shore Press Man on the Street asked residents what they thought about the tax hike proposed by County Executive Ed Romaine:
"I say no to more taxes since l don't see any direct benefit from them. Tax hikes should be brought up for a vote by the people. We need to see what we're getting so we can decide. I would vote no unless they show us we're getting something good for our money."—Tim Monahan, Jr., Patchogue.
Stunning Portraits by an Aspiring Master
Gazing at a gallery of work by portrait artist Susha Holubytska, you lean in to see if the images are photographs. A closer look tells you they are stunning paintings by a creative mind with a master's appreciation of light and composition.
Sunrise Wind Cable Work Nears
Work has begun on the 124-mile cable to connect the Sunrise Wind electric generating turbines to the mainland from their location off Montauk Point. Work crews have mustered at the Shirley Marina to facilitate the construction of the 17.5-mile land route from Smith Point Park to a switching station in Holtsville as part of a massive effort to create green energy for Long Island.
Delay for New Smith Point Bridge
The signs announcing a new Smith Point Bridge is coming soon have been taken down as the project, previously set to begin in early 2025, will be delayed a year, county officials reported.
Local Officials Talk Traffic
With traffic issues a main concern of local residents, town and county officials detailed recent efforts to keep people moving safely and with less stress.
Local Officials Talk Traffic
With traffic issues a main concern of local residents, town and county officials detailed recent efforts to keep people moving safely and with less stress. 
October Surprise Rocks Flood Campaign
An October Surprise came a little early for Assemblyman Ed Flood's reelection bid when a state Appellate Court panel disbarred him from practicing law. The decision was announced through the New York Times, the media outlet that dropped the bomb on former Rep. George Santos, leading to his ouster from Congress and eventual guilty pleas to criminal charges.
Body Parts Pair Cop Pleas
Two of the suspects in the Babylon Body Parts case have copped pleas that will bring them to justice for helping cut up and dispose of the remains of two victims but spare them of murder charges.
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Letters to the Editor: Library Trustees Thank Taxpayers for Victories
I’m deeply grateful to the residents of the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Library District for approving the library budget, as well as for re-electing me.
State Mandated Safe Boating Courses Coming Up
Long Islanders out on the water are looking to stay safe this summer.
South Shore Press Reporter Makes a Stop at the Grand Canyon
South Shore Press Reporter Robert Chartuk makes a stop at the Grand Canyon.