News by Robert Chartuk
News by Robert Chartuk on South Shore Press
Trump Makes Triumphant Return to the White House
Donald J. Trump made his historic return to the White House official as he swore in to become the 47th President in a Capitol Rotunda ceremony surrounded by family, friends, and officials of his new administration, including his Vice President, J.D. Vance. His predecessor, Joe Biden, was in attendance, along with other past presidents, the Supreme Court, foreign dignitaries, and the woman he defeated for his second term, Vice President Kamala Harris.
External Revenue Service Will be a Money Maker for America
Americans despise the Internal Revenue Service, the government agency empowered to take their money at the end of a gun. But how about an External Revenue Service, an agency tasked to collect money for the people?
State Borrowing Noose Tightens Around the Neck of New Yorkers
As if taxpayers don’t have enough government debt weighing them down, the state Legislature voted to tack on another $5 billion, allowing the red ink for the New York State Housing Finance Agency (HFA) to hit $36.28 billion.
DeStefano Named to Key Legislative Commission
“It’s important to have a local voice on this commission, which is charged with examining, evaluating, and making recommendations concerning the distribution of state aid,” DeStefano said.
From Runway to Resting Place: Cemetery Planned for Spadaro Airstrip
The 29-acre parcel on Montauk Highway in East Moriches has a site plan pending for a graveyard its developers, Long Island Community Cemetery, promises to be environmentally friendly.
Reporter Remembers Days in Scouting
Camp Yawgoog in Rhode Island is a summer haven for scouts, especially those at a recent Troop 414 Honor Court who went there to have fun and earn some of the Merit Badges needed to achieve the top rank of Eagle.
Officer’s Near Death Renews Call for Criminal Justice Reform
The horrific crash and near death of Suffolk Police Officer Brendon Gallagher, allegedly caused by an impaired driver with a weapons and road rage record, has renewed the call to revamp the state’s criminal justice system.
Name Suggestions Sought for New Yaphank Station
Now that the Yaphank Train Station is being moved to the other side of William Floyd Parkway, officials are looking for ideas on what to name the new facility.
Scholarship Fundraiser on Tap for the Dr. Calabro Lodge of the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America
The Mastic Beach lodge invites the community to a fundraiser on February 2, honoring Suffolk Legislator Jim Mazzarella and Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico. The group’s Scholarship Gala, a “Celebration of Life and Learning,” will take place at Sunset Harbor in East Patchogue.
The World is a “Mess” as Biden Heads for the Exit
Rather than peaceful, the globe is a “mess” after four years of Biden, as described by President Donald Trump, who is quick to point out that for the first time in 72 years, no wars started under his watch. Here’s a rundown of the state of world affairs Trump faces as he reenters the White House:
Trump Guns Blazing at News Conference
South Shore Press Reporter Robert Chartuk reviews a fiery press conference held by President-Elect Donald J. Trump
Police and Community Connect Over Coffee
Sponsored by Senator Dean Murray and Legislator Dominick Thorne at the Coho cafe on West Main Street, the informal get-together gave residents a chance to mingle with officers from the 5th precinct and local elected leaders in a relaxed environment.
Reward Going Higher in Tragic Dog Case
The reward for information on a dog found in a backpack in Miller Place is increasing as the Suffolk SPCA is making the case a top priority. They’re now offering $4,000 for information on the French or English bulldog, six months to a year old, whose severely emaciated remains were found in the woods November 14 off Miller Place-Yaphank Road, north of Whiskey Road.
Sheriff Services Come to CMO
Suffolk Sheriff deputies set up shop at the Center Moriches Library Monday to bring various services to the community, including a Shed the Meds drop box and medical IDs. The stop was one of many Sheriff Errol Toulon conducts every year as part of his efforts to help residents stay healthy and safe.
Suffolk Sheriff’s Office Hosts 3rd Annual Giveaway
Eyes were bright on the children who streamed into a roomful of gifts at the annual holiday giveaway hosted by Suffolk Sheriff Errol Toulon.
Make Your Voice Heard on Future Development in Mastic Beach
Another community meeting on the Beechwood redevelopment of the Mastic Beach Business District will be held on January 16 at Brookhaven Town Hall in Farmingville starting at 6:30 p.m.
New Session, Same Battles in Albany
Long Island legislators return to Albany this week for the start of a new session with a familiar slate of issues that will once again highlight the ongoing conflict between local taxpayers and the forces that control state government.
Veteran Receives Special Gift
Kevin Dobson was a Vietnam veteran and actor in Knots Landing, one of the longest-running prime-time series in television history. Before he died, he was honored with the gift of a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Statue poster created by Bohemia artist Elaine Faith Thompson.
Town Expands South Shore Conservation Area
Another wetlands parcel has been added to the South Shore conservation area on the Mastic Peninsula, land off Riviera Drive that has been inundated with flooding.
Wilderness Walk in the High Dunes
Just over the Smith Point Bridge in Shirley lies the stunning Fire Island High Dune Wilderness Area. The oceanfront park honors Otis G. Pike, the Suffolk Congressman whose legislation created the Fire Island National Seashore and the 1,381-acre park that carries his name.
Daily Feed
Stony Brook Remains Unbeaten at Home
The Stony Brook men’s basketball team earned CAA Team of the Week honors this week after putting together an impressive stretch of performances at home. The Seawolves picked up victories over Columbia and Central Michigan, continuing their strong start to the season.
Smithtown Celebrates Night of Champions
The Smithtown Central School District Board of Education proudly recognized several championship teams this week during its Board of Education meeting, celebrating an outstanding year marked by dedication, perseverance, and athletic excellence. Each team was introduced by Director of Athletics Jason Lambert, who highlighted the remarkable accomplishments achieved throughout the season.
SWR Wins the White Plains Tiger Invitational
The Shoreham-Wading River varsity wrestling team captured the team championship at the White Plains Tiger Invitational this week, delivering a dominant performance against strong competition. The Wildcats defeated 11 other teams representing Section I, Section IX, and the Catholic High School Athletic Association, showcasing their depth, toughness, and consistency throughout the tournament.