Maple Avenue Gazette Patchogue, NY

2012-01-12T15:58:00.001-05:00

Crime Pattern Alert
January 12, 2012
Fifth Precinct Community Newsletter

The following information should be of interest to anybody or any organization that has a stake in the hamlet of Bayport:

The Fifth Precinct has received eight reports of residential burglaries in the Bayport area within the last month. This represents a significant uptick from the long run general trend in the Bayport community. These burglaries have generally occurred during the day with entry being made into empty homes by a back door window or door.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Suffolk County Police Department’s 911 call center to report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or circumstances that you may observe in your travels in and about the hamlet of Bayport. When you help us, you help us to help you.

Aristides Mojica, Inspector
Commanding Officer, Fifth Precinct

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2012-01-03T18:13:00.004-05:00

From the SCPD Fifth Precinct:
The source of the following Article is PoliceOne.com

Reminder: The next Fifth Precinct Open Community Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 7:00 PM at the Fifth Precinct, 125 Waverly Avenue , Patchogue.

The source of the following article is PoliceOne.com. I hope you find this article and its related links informative and helpful to understanding the challenges in both enduring an event requiring the use of deadly physical force (DPF) by a police officer and answering the inquiries that rightfully seek to acquire facts and determine if the use of DPF is justified.

Destroying Myths & Discovering Cold Facts

with The Force Science Research Center

New video combats public myths about police shootings

In a unique production assisted by the Force Science Institute, law enforcement authorities in an Oregon county have created an online video that explains to civilians the realities of officer-involved shootings and counters prevalent myths fostered by Hollywood fantasies.

In 17 minutes, the program ranges from addressing why officers don’t try to shoot knives out of the hands of attackers to how cell phone and dash-cam recordings can significantly distort impressions of deadly force encounters. In all, the production tackles seven persistent misconceptions that often lead to unjust accusations of wrongdoing regarding police use of force and provides scientific insights into the true dynamics of life-or-death confrontations.

The video, called “ Hollywood vs. Reality: Officer-Involved Shootings,” can be viewed online by clicking here. http://lcpubw04.lanecounty.org/information/yourlanevideos/LaneCountyDistrictAttorney_and_LawEnforcementAgencies.wmv (DVD copies are also available. See below.)Officials who posted it for public viewing are willing to share it with other agencies as a valuable educational tool.

Backstory

Several years ago, after a series of hotly protested police shootings in Portland, the state’s major metropolitan area, the Oregon legislature mandated that each county devise a “more standardized and transparent” system for “managing” OISs. Included was a directive that each county conduct annual “community outreach and education” on law enforcement’s use of deadly force.

Lane County , whose seat is the city of Eugene , was “among the first to respond with a protocol,” according to DA Alex Gardner. Among other things, law enforcement agencies in the county, plus the Oregon State Police, organized an Interagency Deadly Force Investigative Team to probe each OIS and forward evidence gathered to the DA’s office for assessment.

To fulfill the public education requirement, the county launched a series of high-profile events, beginning with daylong instruction and exercises that involved exposing local reporters and politicians to shoot/don’t shoot scenario training.

“Running civilians through scenarios is expensive, and in this area there’s considerable turnover among news reporters, so the effective benefit is not always lasting,” says Melinda McLaughlin Kletzok, the PIO for Eugene PD and a reserve deputy for the Lane County SO.

For 2011’s community education, she told Force Science News, it was decided to produce a video that “could always be online” for public access — ” something that would counter the kind of misinformation that seems to commonly arise after any OIS.” This, she says, would allow basic facts about deadly force to be communicated even when officials couldn’t comment publicly on the specifics of an ongoing investigation.

Dr. Bill Lewinski, executive director of the Force Science Institute, was in Eugene last January for a two-day Force Science training seminar and agreed to appear on camera to deliver pertinent findings emerging from FSI research. At about the same time, Dr. Alexis Artwohl, a Force Science board advisor and certification course faculty member known for her work in police behavioral science, was participating in a training program elsewhere in the state. She joined in the video production also. Kletzok coordinated the project, which was filmed and edited by the professional production company Attic Media.

In the finished program, other contributors — Eugene Ofcr. Joe Kidd, Oregon State Police Sgt. Alan Gilbert, and DA Gardner — offer their particular perspectives on OISs. But the most extensive content comes from Lewinski and Artwohl.

HollywoodBrainwashing

In the opening minutes, Artwohl points out three ironies about the public perception of OISs:

1.) civilians commonly expect “these events to defy the laws of physics”

2.) officers are expected “to defy the limits of human performance” by having “perfect memories and perfect decision-making, when research clearly shows” that to be impossible

3.) “the judgment of police officers is often based on myths, assumptions, and personal opinions that may not necessarily be true”

Gardner then suggests that these critical misconceptions stem in large part from brainwashing of the public mind by Hollywood . Our “video culture” conveys “a tremendous amount of misinformation” about police operations and behavior, he says. “The extent to which the public relies on what they see on TV and in the movies,” often without being fully aware of it, “makes it very difficult for people to evaluate whether an officer has behaved appropriately in a use-of-force application.”

BustingMyths

The bulk of the video, then focuses on myths about OISs, phrased in the form of naive but potentially inflammatory questions that Kletzok and Gardner say frequently arise from the media and community activists after offenders are shot by police.

Here’s an abridged sampling. In some cases, the online video includes real-life dash-cam footage to help illustrate the problems discussed.

“Why didn’t the police talk the aggressor down?”

Most of the time, officers do talk people down, using their communication and persuasion skills, Artwohl points out. Research shows that “only about one percent of all calls for service result in any use of force, and only a very small percentage of those result in use of deadly force....

“Not all offenders can be talked out of what they’re getting ready to do. At that point, the only thing an officer can do is use force to protect his life and protect the public.”

Sometimes because of chemical, emotional, or other issues, subjects are “unable to listen to anything,” Lewinski adds. “That means they are in control of the situation. The officer is the reactor and has to respond to what the person is doing.

“It’s not the officer’s choice, usually, to avoid using verbal skills. It’s the person being unable to listen or attend or being unwilling to do what the officer is saying....”

“It was just a knife and the officer had a gun. Why didn’t the officer just disarm the subject?”

“Some people think an individual armed with a knife is not a dangerous threat to an officer,” Lewinski says. “From our research and the research of others, we know that not to be true. Knives can actually be more dangerous than a gun....

Force Science studies show that “a young person in reasonably good shape can cover as much as 31 feet in the time it takes an officer to draw his gun, point, and fire one round. If a person is seven feet away, the officer could even have his gun in the low-ready position, and by the time he raises the gun and fires even once, he could be stabbed.

“A stab from a knife or a stab and upward cut can be extremely quick. Each cut or slash can occur at less than one-quarter second, and any one could be lethal for the officer....”

“Why not shoot the gun or knife out of their hand? Why not shoot to wound the subject?”

Lewinski recalls TV and movie westerns in which the hero defeats an attacker with this kind of precision shooting. “It’s one of those Hollywood myths,” he says. “It looks good on film but doesn’t work in the real world. Officers do not have the ability to fire and hit that accurately in a dynamic encounter.”

Even if officers aim for center mass, they “tend not to be as accurate as they might be on the range because the dynamics by which people move in a real-world encounter are such that center mass is a constantly changing target....”

To stop the threat, the goal of police deadly force, “the best place an officer can aim for is center mass,” Lewinski explains. “Even then it’s not a guarantee,” but it’s more realistic than the extraordinary challenge of intentionally hitting only an arm or a leg.

“Why were they shot in the back?”

In framing an answer to this nettlesome question, Lewinski describes a shooting in which he served as an expert witness. When the officer made the decision to shoot, the threatening suspect was facing him full-on. Yet when the smoke cleared, the officer’s rounds were found to have struck in the suspect’s side and back, making it appear that the officer had not been in jeopardy when he fired.

“By the time I can say ‘1,000-and,’ the officer had fired 4 rounds,” discharging a bullet every quarter-second, “shooting to save his life,” Lewinski says. In that eye-blink, the suspect had begun to turn away, a movement the officer would not have had time to detect and react to. Inevitably, the subject’s side and back were exposed in the process to the line of fire.

“Very true, shots did go into the back,” Lewinski says. But in the time span involved, “there was nothing the officer could have done to stop from shooting the subject in the back.” In the video, Lewinski demonstrates the twisting-and-turning movement involved.

“Doesn’t a video of an event tell the whole story?”

In a word, No. A video camera, Lewinski explains, records action “from a particular perspective,” and that’s “very limiting in its ability” to tell the full story. “Look at the number of cameras necessary for referees to look at during a football game” in attempting to “accurately and completely” judge an action under scrutiny, he says.

In a video recording, which “people tend to think is an accurate reporter of any particular incident,” some action may be missing entirely, and what’s shown can be significantly skewed. Lewinski references a camera some officers now wear that sits just in front of an officer’s ear.

“This reportedly has the view of the officer, but it does not. If you close your left eye, for instance, you will see what your right eye sees. Your right eye sees a different field of view than your left eye. Now imagine a camera far behind your right eye. What does that see? No camera records things as an officer’s eyes and brain record it.”

After the myth-busting segments, which also include reaction-time realities and less-lethal devices, the video concentrates on a walk-through of investigative procedures, given by Gardner and Gilbert. Among other things, they explain how the deadly force investigative team operates and why investigations sometimes take months to complete.

Gilbert expresses empathy “with the public and media being frustrated because a lot of information isn’t released immediately. It’s frustrating for the police, too. We want to get the story out, especially when an officer has done something heroic. But we need to wait so as not to taint the investigation.”

Artwohl notes in conclusion, “Most officers will tell you that by far the most stressful part of the event is what happens afterwards. We need to refrain from a rush to judgment. The least we can do is provide officers the benefit of the doubt while the investigation is going on.”

Public feedback on the video has been “very positive,” Gardner says, “but where we’ll get the most is on the heels of the next shooting.” Meanwhile, he and Kletzok encourage other policing agencies to benefit from the production, which Gardner describes as “a lasting tool to help educate people who are unfamiliar with law enforcement use of deadly force and how it is investigated. Officers deserve that community understanding. They’ve earned it.”

Kletzok agrees. The video, with its expert observations on the subtleties of OISs, can be accessible “for years to come, whenever questions come up about shootings,” she says. “At times when an agency might be unable to comment directly on a lethal force event, the video can speak for the agency about controversial or misunderstood issues.”

If you’d like a copy in DVD format, contact Gardner at: alex.gardner@co.lane.or.us and reference Force Science News.

About the author

The FSRC was launched in 2004 by Executive Director Bill Lewinski, PhD. - a specialist in police psychology -- to conduct unique lethal-force experiments. The non-profit FSRC, based at Minnesota State University-Mankato, uses sophisticated time-and-motion measurements to document-for the first time-critical hidden truths about the physical and mental dynamics of life-threatening events, particularly officer-involved shootings. Its startling findings profoundly impact on officer training and safety and on the public's naive perceptions.

For more information, visit http://www.forcescience.org/ or e-mail info@forcescience.org. If you would benefit from receiving updates on the FSRC's findings as well as a variety of other use-of-force related articles, please visit www.forcesciencenews.com and click on the "Please sign up for our newsletter" link at the front of the site. Subscriptions are free

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2011-12-23T21:30:00.000-05:00

Santa is Getting Ready for Christmas
Santa is working very hard making toys for children of all ages. The children always get toys from Santa, but as I have been told Santa may also give a few toys to adults. With this in mind I would like to ask Santa for a new GPS. Hope Santa is reading this article!

I have been searching the Internet for a webcam video stream, of Santa's workshop; in spite of my extensive research I was not able to find a live Web Video Stream of Santa's Workshop. I guess that the location is secret, and Santa is very busy.

I did hear of a few people that are currently on the north pole, that are trying to take a video of Santa using an Internet Web Cam, but they have been unable to find the secret location of Santa's workshop. Keep watching this site; if the videographers at the North Pole manage to find Santa's Workshop, I will provide the link.

When I was young boy, I was never able to get information about Santa, because the internet did not exist. A company that normally sells security cameras, set up a camera outside of the "Santa Clause Office," in Finland. It is this office and the United States Postal Service that sorts and directs all of the mail that is sent to Santa. I would not guarantee that Santa could be at this location, but it is possible! Please let us know if you actually get a glimpse of Santa Clause!

(Please left click the link below this line)

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/santaclauslive-outside-cam

I was able to find a live Video feed of the barn where Santa keeps his Reindeers. I believe that Santa feeds his Reindeer twice a day, at 10 AM EST and 5 PM EST. I have not seen Santa yet but I will keep looking.

(Please left click the link below this line to view the Reindeer)

http://reindeercam.com/

This is a very important issue to many people, so we should all share our information about possible sightings of Santa! Please report any sighting of Santa Clause in the Comments box!

Merry Christmas everybody!

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2011-12-13T22:03:00.000-05:00

From SCPD 5Th Precinct Newsletter

Reminder: The next Fifth Precinct open community meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Fifth Precinct, 125 Waverly Avenue , Patchogue.

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2011-12-11T22:34:00.001-05:00

The "I Can Do Attitude" is Contagious!

Have you ever seen the "Stage Crew," at a school concert or theatrical performance get a round of applause from the audience? On December 10, 2011, I had the privilege and surprise of attending a "school Christmas Concert," at Saint Anthony's High School, in South Huntington, Long Island, NY. Two of my grand daughters were performing in that concert.

A school Christmas Concert, and I am looking at the stage crew, instead of the Orchestra, and Chorus! Hemmm; "What planet is this guy from.?" When I attend a performance I always look at the entire package. Everyone knows, including college admissions officers, that teamwork, and the "I can do Attitude," is the key to success in life! We as parents are often overwhelmed with the daily problems of survival, and cannot make the time to stop and smell the Roses!

The simple but most important corollary to success of a young adult is to have experienced the "I can Do It," phenomenon, just once. Yes, just once is enough to change the life of a young adult! Once a person has succeeded to master any task, he will then reapply the faith in his ability to succeed, to other disciplines! If you believe in yourself, you can move mountains; absolutely! Simple but profound, self confidence is highly contagious, it will spread like wildfire.

Exactly what did I see when I watched this concert! The entire production was executed with military precision, but most importantly, the students were totally involved, as a team. The chorus alone had about 600 members, and the Orchestra and Bands had almost that many members.

Here is the most important observation that I have made at this concert; over 600 musicians and singers, and not one was "bored." Before I actually focused on the actual music and choral parts, I noticed that the "I can do it Attitude," was beaming from every musician and singer! The most beautiful thing on the planet is to see over 600 young adults, totally focused as a team, savoring their accomplishment. The entire Auditorium was flooded with a spirit that made every parent proud!

The stage crew performed "miracles in their own right;" Bleachers that would normally be used at a football game were repeatedly moved on and off stage, with military precision. 150 feet of Bleachers were set-up and broken down, at least Four times, by a mixed group of male and Female stage hands. Each assembly/ disassembly operation took less than Two minutes. The parents were absolutely awestruck! With emotion filled faces, the parents were applauding in awe, as if to say "I can't believe it, this is not what happened the last time I asked my child to throw out the "Garbage." Here lies the power in the "I can do attitude."

All of my grandchildren, two of which performed in this concert, have adapted the "I can do it," mindset. Success in one area has indeed, migrate to every other area of their lives.

The musicians were all outstanding. When a listen to music I always pay attention to where the music is coming from; the fingers, or the Heart! A musician who is "true to the art" always plays from his heart! I was so impressed with the Orchestra and Bands, because they were playing from the Heart.

The videos of this year's concert have not yet been made available to the general public, on YouTube, however the video of last year's concert shows the same Orchestra and Chorus playing and singing the same songs. The quality of both concerts is excellent!

Please look at the following Choral video presentation.

(Left click the URL below)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTvMxTjYvlE

Saint Anthony's Orchestra, Barcelona performance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMKVQo0Odco&feature=related

Please take some time to look at the Roses! You must slow down long enough actually see our environment. That's the problem with living today; the pace of life often reduces our ability to both "look and see." We look at things that are happening around us, but we often do not see, because we are moving through life at Warp speed. Real meaning is often diluted or lost.

Some segment of our population seems to question the drive and resolve, of our young adults to submit to hard work, and show real dedication. The videos above should have already answered the preceding question. I see our young people living in a totally complex world with astronomical expectations. Put our youth in the occupation of their choice and they will flourish. I would not expect enthusiastic performance from a recent college grad, who accepts a job working behind the counter at 7-11. The real culprit is the economy; and this too will pass!

Our young adults are smarter than we ever were; I do expect only the best from this new generation, because they nurture the coveted "I can do attitude".

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2011-12-02T16:49:00.000-05:00

The Most Beautiful Christmas Tree on Long Island

My wife comes from 69th Street in Brooklyn, NY. In the 50s everyone lived a very modest life. The quality of life then, doesn't even come close to the quality of life that most of us now take for granted. We owned only one pair of sneakers, and we extended the usable lifetime of a failing sneaker by inserting cardboard into the bottom of the sneaker to cover a hole. We "had no clue" that we were poor, because everyone around us lived exactly the same way.

Christmas presents were scarce at that time; toys were few, and we usually got something practical instead, such as a pair of underwear! My wife's father sold Christmas trees on 69 th St in order to supplement the family income. A side job such as this does have its perks; my wife always had the biggest and most beautiful Christmas Tree in "all of Brooklyn!"

I inherited the tradition of having the "Biggest and Best Christmas Tree," when I married my wife Marie. We now live in Patchogue Long Island, NY, and always purchase our Christmas tree at the same local place. The employees knew my wife by her first name; why; because they had to lift 47 Christmas Trees for my wife, before she would select a tree. The employees always smiled as they participated in my wife's tree selection ritual; they too could feel her joy and enthusiasm; it was contagious!

Large Christmas Trees did not come without their problems! My living Room has a Nine foot ceiling; in the early days she had a tendency to select a Twelve foot Christmas Tree. So! For many years we had to cut three feet off the top of our Christmas Trees. Yep! Our trees sometimes looked like a Trapazoid! What fond memories!

I will always remember our biggest quest for the most beautiful Christmas Tree! Armed with a Cassette Player and many Christmas Carol Tapes, two adults and three teenagers, piled into a Ford Fairmont mid-sized wagon, and drove to Eastern Long Island, to cut down our own Christmas Tree. We could not find a tree that was big enough so we drove to Upstate New York, in order to find the perfect tree. Our biggest mistake was to cut down a tree that was over eight inches in diameter at its base! The tree was beautiful, but it was also huge! It took three teenagers and two adults to get this tremendous tree on the roof of our small car. The Christmas tree was so big that it offered a tremendous wind load to our car; our gas mileage was severely degraded. I couldn't understand why my small car was using so much Gasoline! With the combined weight of two adults, three teenagers, and one huge tree, the small ford Fairmont wagon was essentially hugging the ground! The tree cost us Twenty Five dollars, and the expenses, and Gasoline required to transport this huge tree back to Patchogue, cost us One Hundred and Fifty dollars.

So we have a Twenty Five dollar Christmas tree that cost us $150. dollars to transport home; a total of $175. !

After 47 years of marriage we have honed and tweaked our Christmas Tree selection process, to the point that is now an "art." Last year my wife and I selected our Christmas Tree in only Fifteen minutes! Truly miraculous!

Marie still retains her superior skill in the art of "Christmas Tree selection." It is an absolute certainty, that this year, we will once again have a beautiful Christmas Tree. When we buy our Christmas Tree this year, I'm sure that we will have the "Most Beautiful Christmas Tree, in all of Long Island, NY!"

Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!!!

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2011-11-27T22:37:00.000-05:00

Story of Christians, Jews, Christmas, and Hanukkah

I am an Italian Gentile, raised in Brooklyn NY, in a Jewish / Italian neighborhood. In the fifties, the Christian and Jewish communities were closely connected, and shared the enthusiasm of their respective religious holidays.

My Father was a house painter; the major portion of his business was painting Jewish Schools. As I recall a Jewish School was pronounced "Shool." My Father, a Catholic, literally worked in the classrooms, together with the Rabi and his students.

My father's Christian name was Salvatore, everyone called him Sal; his Jewish customers called him Sol, which is short for Solomon. He was very proud of that! He had a strong admiration for the Jewish community!

In the Fifties, the Jewish students were taught religion, but were also trained to deal with "real Life situations," that they could encounter, when they got older. I will always remember how my father always conveyed these wonderful lessons in life, to me, knowing how valuable they were. As soon as my Father got home from work, dirty and tired, he would immediately teach me the valuable lesson in life, that he had just learned that very same afternoon, in the Jewish School.

So! an Italian Catholic, whose father was called Sol, who painted Jewish Schools for a living, and taught his son lessons from the Jewish School.

At Christmas time the Manger and the Menorah often resided at the same location in the home town of my youth, Brooklyn, NY. A Manger was set-up in front of an apartment house, and a Menorah was displayed next door. Half of my friends were Jewish! My girlfriend was Jewish! At Christmas time my Jewish friends were celebrating Hanukkah, and we all shared in the excitement and anticipation of both holidays. We were literally transformed into a family through our religious holidays!

That's the way it should be!

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah!

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2011-11-26T18:19:00.000-05:00

Holiday Season Safety Tips from the 5Th Precinct

The source of the following is the November 2011 Suffolk County Police Department Newsletter:

The Suffolk County Police Department wishes everyone a safe, happy and healthy holiday season—please assist us in ensuring your safety by considering the information contained below, and by always acting in a safe and responsible manner.

Holiday Safety: The day after Thanksgiving, commonly known as ―Black Friday, has become increasingly popular during these challenging economic times as people search for better deals and discounts. Regrettably, in the excitement of seeking shopping values, thefts, accidents and tragedies often occur. Although the Suffolk County Police Department deploys extra patrols during the holiday season, it is incumbent on everyone to take basic precautions to ensure the safety and security of themselves and their possessions.

Driving Safety: Suffolk County’s roadways are increasingly crowded during the shopping season, and parking lots can be quite congested. Motorists must exercise extreme caution when driving, remaining alert and attentive, refraining from engaging in distracted driving behavior such as talking on a cell phone or texting. Many crashes occur in parking lots during the holiday season and it’s for this reason it is incumbent on all to drive at a slow speed, using caution when approaching parking lot intersections, and to remain alert for vehicles backing out of parking spaces, and pedestrians. Never park in fire zones—doing so not only creates an obstruction for emergency responders, but creates a hazardous situation for pedestrians as well. Also, never park in handicapped spaces unless you have a valid permit—fines are significant, and worse yet, you may prevent someone from using the space who truly needs it!

Shopping and Crowd Safety: Great shopping deals can mean large crowds and long lines at retail stores. The stress and anticipation of doors opening and the frustration of waiting on long lines can make others aggressive. If you see a large, unorganized crowd gathering, step back and remove yourself from the situation. No matter how significant the deals, they are not worth risking injury. If you see any hazardous behavior, such as an unorganized or disorderly crowd, call 911 and remember to remain calm at all times.

If you plan on shopping those midnight madness sales well into the night, do not shop alone! Taking along a shopping buddy will not only make your shopping experience a more enjoyable one, it will make it a safer one as well. When shopping, be sure your purse and wallet are secure on your person and closed—never leave them unattended in a shopping cart or in a dressing room.

Be sure GPS navigation devices, EZ Passes, cell phones and other electronics are not in view in your vehicle. Secure them in the glove compartment or out of sight. Nothing is more attractive to a thief than an unlocked car or a car filled with recent purchases. Be sure packages are out of view or secured in the trunk, and be sure to always keep your vehicle windows closed and doors locked.

Avoid the ATM at night. If you will be paying with cash, make your withdrawals ahead of time during daylight hours. If using an ATM at night, use one that is in a well-lit, heavily populated area and preferably indoors.

Have a game plan of where you will be shopping and an estimated time when you will arrive home, and share this information with family or friends. Carry a cell phone with you in case of emergency.

Don’t Drink and Drive This Holiday Season: Many people aren’t aware that Thanksgiving Eve has become a party night among young adults. Many college students come home for the holiday and get together with friends the evening before Thanksgiving to socialize. To ensure that everyone has fun and stays safe – NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE. Everyone who plans to celebrate away from home should designate a driver if they plan on drinking alcoholic beverages—something every parent should discuss with both their children who drive and those who don’t. The Suffolk County Police Department will be deploying extra DWI patrols this holiday season and will continue to aggressively enforce laws relating to driving under the influence. Severe penalties accompany a DWI conviction including stiff fines, jail time and seizure of your motor vehicle. If those penalties are not enough of a deterrent, remember DWI-related crashes often have devastating effects, including serious injury and loss of life.

Underage Drinking: Underage drinking is a significant problem across the nation, and Suffolk County is not immune. Suffolk County ’s Social Host Law is designed to reduce underage drinking gatherings where an adult allows minors to drink alcoholic beverages. This law applies to any adult, including parents, who knowingly allow consumption of alcohol by any person under the age of 21 at a residence that adult owns, rents or otherwise controls, and fails to take reasonable corrective action upon learning of the consumption of alcohol by minors. The Social Host Law is strictly enforced by the Suffolk County Police Department, and allows for penalties up to $1,000.

Please Note: The New York State Penal Law, Alcohol Beverage Control Law, and other state and local regulations contain numerous other ordinances that make it a crime to engage in unlawful conduct with persons under the age of 21. These statutes prohibit the sale of alcohol to persons under 21, the purchase of alcohol for someone who is under 21, the possession of alcohol by persons under 21, as well as laws pertaining to engaging in conduct that endangers the welfare of persons of a protected age

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2011-11-20T12:38:00.000-05:00

Issues hidden "Under the Rug"

Why do governments, businesses, and institutions, have a dismal record for reporting serious and possibly criminal issues to the authorities? Why would anyone push a serious issue under the Rug? Embarrassment and the resulting loss of stature and income for the organization, is an obvious answer. With this established, we must now consider the logistics of a management hierarchy, that exists in many organizations.

The flow of information within an organization is impeded when all levels of management play the "blame game," in an effort to stack the cards in their favor. Generally, increasingly higher levels of management, have the potential to exhibit increasingly higher levels of predatory behavior. I do not feel comfortable being locked in a cage, with a lion, when I have no means of defense!

Lower levels of management work "at the pleasure of" higher levels of management! What does this mean? In most establishments, lower management can be fired at the whim of higher management. Many of us work for organizations and businesses that can and will fire us in an instant, without notice. This is a sad and ugly fact of life; to live and work without any sense of security. So here we are, trying to support a house, a family, pay our car loan, and pay our credit cards, all under the auspices of a little gremlin in our mind that keeps reminding us that we dare not upset the boss or supervisor. In today's economic environment, the name of the game is ",do not upset your supervisor;" your entire future rests on your bosses perception of a given event.

All of the above work in conjunction with what I call the "Middle Management Corollary," which is "do not drop any problems on my desk." Why would your immediate supervisor get upset? The act of dropping a problem on you bosses desk has the effect of transferring liability to him. Your boss is now stuck with the responsibility of dropping this issue on his immediate bosses desk; that also lives by the "Middle Management Corollary." Dropping a "bomb" on your bosses desk comes with possible serious ramifications!

If an employee brings an issue to an authority outside of his company, he will be expedited upon for breaking the chain of command. He is sure to be fired! There are no laws to protect him!

A person that goes through college so that he will qualify for a management position, can be over Thirty years old before he made his first dollar. The very act of pushing a problem upstream can be a vocational death sentence; you can be fired by any one of the managers above your boss. There is a tendency to minimize the severity of a given issue when reporting it to your immediate supervisor; hoping that he will take the initiative to gather the facts. Working exclusively "at the pleasure of" management, can be a frightening and dehumanizing experience! With this in mind, how gallant could you be with a given issue, when the future of your family is at stake? The actual driving force behind the cloaking of any issue is survival. When it comes to addressing serious issues within an organization, the process of conveying information to higher levels of management, can be sketchy at best.

The ramifications of not addressing critical issues can be catastrophic; a Federal or State Review Panel is needed to protect those individuals who choose to report sensitive issues to upper management. The panel should be empowered to levy and disperse the proceeds of fines, that amount to twice the lifetime income, of a person who was unjustly fired. This panel could prevent many tragedies from ever happening. I believe that serious issues should be addressed by upper management; a clerk is not charged with this level of responsibility. It is managements responsibility to openly address serious issues, that could result in personal damage, and the ultimate collapse of a company or institution.

Before we can successfully remedy this problem, the word "survival," must be removed from the equation.

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2011-11-13T12:01:00.005-05:00

We could use a few of these in Patchogue!

The following life sized Three dimensional paintings are displayed in Atlantic City, NJ, along the Boardwalk. The huge paintings are used to cover an unsightly structure, and a vacant lot.

Could this be applied to unsightly vacant stores?

How about just putting up a "fun marquee painting" oven an unsightly vacant store?

Any ideas?

(Left click any photo to make it larger!)

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2011-11-09T22:06:00.012-05:00

Update on the Joe Paterno Article:

I am not a big fan of "trial by public opinion," and believe that everyone has the right to due process of the law. I firmly believe that no accusation should be made until sufficient evidence is available for consideration.

WGAL.com has published the Grand Jury Presentment (report), on the Jerry Sandusky case. This report brings new information to light that was not available as this tragic issue unfolded. (Please read the Presentment!)

http://www.wgal.com/r/29737266/detail.html

I always try to give a person the "benefit of the doubt," because I believe that only real, hard, facts should be used when writing about an issue that could destroy someone's life.

A casual examination of the "Presentment," convinced me that Joe Paterno and others up to and including the president of Penn State, may have known more about the Sandusky crimes than I had originally surmised.

In my opinion, it appears that criminal charges may be made against all involved including Joe Paterno. A sad day for Penn State, and a sad day for the victims.

Is Joe Paterno Guilty?

Joe Paterno the famous Penn State Football coach is under fire for the actions of a coworker who worked under his supervision. Members of the press and the university, are frothing at the mouth in an attempt to force Joe to retire. Joe Paterno is indeed guilty of something but certainly not guilty of being connected or responsible for the alleged reprehensible sexual actions of his former assistant, Jerry Sandusky.

In 1998 Paterno's assistant was under investigation by the Penn State University Police. In 2002 a graduate student told Paterno that he saw Sandusky allegedly raping a 10 year old boy in the shower. This "second hand" incident report was passed on to Paterno's superior. Obviously Mr. Sandusky was already on the Radar Screen of the Police Department, and should also have been on the Radar Screen of the Penn State administration. In my opinion, because of an ongoing investigation, Joe Paterno had no other course of action than to relay this second hand report to his superior.

A critic said that Joe Paterno broke the law by not calling the police! As I see it, Mr. Paterno was not a witness, and was only provided with second hand information; hearsay, which may or may not have been accurate. In reality the original observer should have called the police.

It is not Paterno that "turned a blind eye" to sexual abuse allegations; Paterno is a sports coach! I wouldn't expect his job description to include police investigative duties! This is no way to treat a man that has done so much for Penn State! Yes, Joe Paterno is indeed guilty of something! Yes he is absolutely guilty, of not retiring sooner. Joe Paterno currently stands proud with the world on his side; that includes me!

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2011-11-02T20:17:00.000-04:00

Fifth Precinct Newsletter

November 2, 2011

The following information should be of interest to those who have a stake in the Holtsville Community in general and the Seneca Middle School in particular:

•The Fifth Precinct has received two reports of a suspicious red colored Jeep approaching middle school students at school bus stops. This vehicle was observed by an area resident in the vicinity of Avenue E and Furrows Road as recently as between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM on November 1, 2011. The driver is described as a middle aged, possibly Hispanic male. Fifth Precinct officers are conducting an investigation.

Aristides Mojica, Inspector

Commanding Officer, Fifth Precinct

********

Reminder:

The next Fifth Precinct open community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Fifth Precinct, 125 Waverly Avenue , Patchogue , NY .

The source of the following information is the October/November Suffolk County Police Department Newsletter:

Holiday Shopping:

With the holiday shopping season approaching, we remind you to remain aware of the potential for identity theft. Although most identity theft is committed through traditional means such as mail theft and lost or stolen wallets or purses, the increased use of credit and debit cards during the holiday shopping season can increase the risk of your personal information falling into the wrong hands.

When holiday shopping:

Minimize the impact of a lost or stolen wallet or purse by carrying only the identification and credit cards you need - leave your Social Security card and checkbook at home.

Do not leave purses, wallets or important personal information in the glove compartment of unattended cars.

Do not leave purses or handbags unattended in shopping carts.

While applying for instant credit at stores, be vigilant of the fact that a thief may be “shoulder surfing” (watching and listening) as you provide personal information to obtain the credit. This technique has been made easier by the pervasive availability of cell phone cameras.

When Internet shopping:

Consider transactions only with companies you know. Do not provide personal information, especially your Social Security number, unless you trust the person you are giving it to.

Look for the “lock” security symbol on your Internet browser page and look for “https” in the website address.

Consider using credit cards instead of debit cards for online purchases as credit card companies typically offer better fraud protection

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2011-11-01T20:26:00.007-04:00

A Profound Message

Someone from our group, sent this link to me via Email; I immediately considered this quote, and its analysis by Dr Aletta, as profound and decided to share it with you.

“Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, first make sure that you are not, in fact, just surrounded by a&&h&&&s (Expletive Deleted).” ~
William Gibson

Please read the analysis by
Doctor Aletta!
(Left click the link below)

http://explorewhatsnext.com/am-i-depressed-or-surrounded-by-holes/

Also see
http://sachem.patch.com/blog_posts/bullying-in-our-schools

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2011-10-11T18:38:00.000-04:00

Fifth Precinct Open Community Meeting

The next Fifth Precinct Open Community Meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at the Fifth Precinct, 125 Waverly Avenue, Patchogue at 7:00 PM.

(You do not have to be a member or representative of any organized group such as the Neighborhood Watch. Anyone can attend this meeting and voice their concerns.)

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2011-10-01T21:32:00.001-04:00

Italian Festival in Patchogue

On Saturday October 1, 2011, I attended the Festival of Saint Liberata in Patchogue, NY. I have never heard of the festival of Saint Liberata. Someone from the K of C handed me a brochure entitled "Patchogue Italian Festival of St. Liberata;" it is from this brochure that I learned of the history of the Festival of St. Liberata, in our home town, Patchogue, NY. I had no idea that this festival is an integral part of Patchogue's history, which dates back to 1920! It would be wonderful if a PDF form of this Brochure were made available on the internet for everyone to enjoy!

I have been to many Italian festivals before. In the usual tradition, food at a festival is prepared and sold outside; but it takes more than Italian food and carnival rides, to make an Italian festival.

I am from Italian descent; my Grandparents came to the United States from Palermo Italy. Every Sunday my family went to my Grandparents house on New Utrecht Avenue, in Brooklyn, for Sunday dinner. My Grandfather was the cook, and when he cooked, he listened to the radio. Every Sunday the radio programming was the same; Gumbata Joe, and Jimmy Roselli. Please partake in the Italian experience of a child; Left click the link below, close your eyes, and listen to the entire song by Jimmy Roselli. (Please do not read past the link below. Also remember to left click the back arrow to get back to this page)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gODdES8VlA&feature=related

And now you have it; the Italian experience of a child! To this day I still have no clue what Jimmy Roselli was singing about; I speak almost no Italian but I smile every time I hear Jimmy Roselli sing!

The Italian music at the festival was provided by an Italian band, that normally entertains at the Main Street Italian Bistro in Patchogue. The Italian music was great; I felt like I was at Grandma and Grandpa's house. My wife and I purchased some Italian food from the Main Street Italian Bistro, we sat down, and enjoyed the show. I saw a young lady doing a traditional Italian dance; I even saw the feeble attempt that two 18 year old guys made at Italian dancing! I went across the street and purchased a few Rice Balls from Del Fiore; to my surprise, they were just as good as the ones that my Grandfather made!

The audience was engaged; I was engaged! The festival of St. Liberata, in Patchogue, NY, did indeed have the feel of a genuine Italian festival. It does take more than just Italian food to make a festival!

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2011-09-13T20:02:00.000-04:00

From Anonymous:
I usually agree with you on many subjects but not this one. You minimize his wrongdoings as if they were petty and try to wish them away. I want honest, open government in my Village. You are way off the mark. The community doesn't need corrupt politicians to move ahead.

My answer:
To this point we are dealing with unproven alligations. None of these alligations have been proven true by a judge and jury! We are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty by a court of law! No one is guilty of anything. Any attempt to discredit a person of an offense that has not been proven true by a court of law is in my opinion, not an honorable thing to do! Unfortunately the media does this all of the time! God help us!

Local Official's Compensation
Local government should absolutely be viewed by the general populous as a business. For some reason we the residents of "Hometown USA," have lost track of the fact that our local officials, retired or otherwise, have a family to support, and bills to pay. Do yourself a favor; find out how much money your local officials are being paid for their services; you could be surprised! Now consider how much money you would charge to work 60 hours a week, if you were a local official!

On the average, the amount of money that one could make as a local official could be 60 to 80 percent lower than it should be. Yes in certain areas of government, the compensation may be too high, or at least questionably high! That is a separate issue that should also be addressed.

In the case where a local municipality cannot afford to pay its public officials a competitive salary, some municipalities offer "valuable considerations," as an alternate means of compensation. As an example, In some western towns the elected official and his wife are allowed to drive an official car 24/7. Official presence has the same effect as the "neighborhood watch;" someone is always looking! With perks such as this, both the elected official and the community win! Valuable considerations can take many forms, but should be issued and controlled by an advisory committee of resident taxpayers.

With the current atmosphere of political volatility, we must be sure that we retain our qualified local officials. Retaining qualified local officials to run our town, "Hometown USA," has not even been on the Radar Screen. There is a direct one to one monetary correlation of the value of our home, and the appearance of our municipality; an aloof local government can destroy the value of your home and property. Bad government can turn your $300,000 dollar investment in your house or property, into $125,000 dollars, before you realize what happened! Amazingly enough, even the landlords realize this to be true!

We must do everything possible to retain quality elected officials!

OK.....We are on the right track.... We are moving forward.....guess we won't get run over!

(modified quote by will Rogers! Ha! Ha!)

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2011-08-12T00:37:00.005-04:00

Heated Subject Discussion

Please continue to send your comments (bottom of each post) and or Emails (top right hand column). I will read the comments and emails and then try to publish an article that addresses your concerns. After reading your communications, I will delete all of the publically visible comments; hope I remember! Comment boxes can be a horror!

Patchogue First Issue:
One reader said that I was

looking the other way;

that is exactly what I believe to be the best alternative, in this particular case!

What is the alternative? We could alter the current slate of Patchogue Village officials, and possibly wind-up with a local government that cannot perform as well as the original Patchogue First slate of officers. What are the chances of finding another slate of Patchogue Village Officials that work as a team, and can actually manage to re-earn the distinction of being a world-wide example of progressive local government; I would say little to none!

Life is about decisions! I have seen many past Patchogue officials try in vain to quench the crime problems that plagued our village decades ago; none have succeeded until Paul Pontieri and the "Patchogue First Team," took control of the helm!

Am I willing to take a chance on reverting back to a time where it was not safe to walk the streets of Patchogue at night? Absolutely not!

Life is about decisions!

Patchogue First and Paul Pontieri

First some history:

Paul Pontieri, Mayor of Patchogue Village, Patchogue, NY, has been accused of the following actions by Patchogue Village Deputy Mayor Stephen McGiff and Trustee Gerard Crean:

• Selling his old car back to Patchogue Village, via his relative that was a car dealer, at a profit of $500 to his relative. Mayor Pontieri said he saved the village thousands of dollars.

• Paul was accused of hiring a relative as a custodian. Details are not definitive, but Paul also says that he saved the village money.

• Taking event tickets from a friend, who ultimately did business with the village!

• Making a loan of $150,000 to "Art Space," without consulting the trustees.

• Mayor Pontieri has been accused of pushing the acceptance of the 291 Tri Tec apartments? In actuality two trustees were in favor of accepting Tri Tec, two were opposed, and the mayor held the deciding vote. To this day I am opposed to the Tri Tec complex without the hotel and tower. Hopefully this project could be returned to its original configuration.

• Paul Pontieri was accused of increasing his salary by 3.4 times! This issue brought to light the fact that Paul Pontieri was receiving only $15,000 for a job that required 60 hours of work per week; a trustee received only $3,600 compensation! How ridiculous is that! Salaries were increased to $36,000, and $12,000 dollars respectively. We have five people that are qualified Professors, lawyers and principals, working for us at a substandard wage! These people deserve a medal!

It was Paul Pontieri in conjunction with the Village trustees that created an atmosphere for change in Patchogue. The mayor and the trustees constitute the Patchogue First caucus that with the help of local activist residents, ousted the previous ineffective Patchogue Village Government.

I do not believe in pursuing an issue without first considering the consequences! Paul Pontieri and the current slate of Patchogue Village officials were and still are tough on crime; the former slate was not!

I love to play Slot Machines! "So what does that have to do with this issue?" "Please bear with me!" Before I play a slot machine I test it with quarters. I keep inserting quarters into the slot machine and observe what happens. If I see that a particular machine is a "winner," I then feel safe to put more money into that particular machine. In my personal opinion, I believe that Mayor Paul Pontieri and the village trustees are indeed the best slate of Patchogue Village officials, that we have ever had!.

We as a population, have for the most part, lost touch with what makes a successful business, government, or village! Top down management always results in dismal failure due to gridlock. Administration talks down to Middle Management which talks down to Supervisors who talk down to the rank and file workers. Everyone is busy defending themselves against the people above them, and nothing gets done!

"And now;" we have Patchogue First! From its inception, "Patchogue First" was determined to leave the political rubbish behind and actually address real village issues that effected us all. It was the Patchogue First Team which consists of the Mayor and the trustees that jointly addressed and solved the critical problems, that ultimately resulted in the Patchogue that we now enjoy today. Seventeen years ago our village was not a desirable place to live!

Patchogue First has from it very beginning, followed the "bottom up" model for government; everyone including the worker, was an important part of the team. Everyone worked hard because they were appreciated and recognized as an important part of the overall solution to local problems! The Mayor and trustees worked closely with the Neighborhood Watch, and the Police Department. We, the residents of Patchogue Village, enjoy a good quality of life because our current government is accessible. We as a village have moved forward from what was a questionable quality of life, to what is now a vibrant community! Most of all, go to the Patchogue Village Facebook page and read what the new generation has to say about our village! It is obvious, our young people are very proud to be connected with Patchogue village! I rest my case!

"A chain is as good as its weakest link." The fastest racing car in the world cannot win a race with a second rate pit crew! I personally would rather see the Paul Pontieri and the trustees resolve their issues and continue performing miracles as the "Patchogue First Team."

Yes Paul is a "country boy," and my personal tendency is to view the "Car," family "hiring," and Art Space "loan issues," to be sketchy at best. I would rather see them just go away!

As a gambler, you've got to know when to hold, you've got to know when to fold, and you've got to know when to walk away! As a village resident that believes in the "Patchogue First," slate of Public Officials, I am not quite ready to walk away!

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2011-07-22T19:57:00.002-04:00

Bullying in our Schools

"I'm beginning to believe them!" A 12 year old boy who attends a local school, spends his nights worrying about what the local school bullies are going to do to him the very next day. Education takes a back seat to bullying, which remains unchecked, and paramount in this young man's life!

"They keep calling me "Bad things" and I'm beginning to believe them." "There are six fights at my school every day." This sounds all too familiar; it happened to me and it happened to my children while they were in school. This type of unacceptable behavior has proven through the years to have amazing "staying power."

Decades have passed since I was in Junior High School and still; bullying is alive and well! It appears that the rules governing incidents of bullying should be reevaluated. I have heard of two incidents of bullying where the victim could no longer take the repeated abuse, and finally decided to fight back. As it turned out in both cases the victim was suspended, and the Bully received a free pass; in both cases the bully remained unpunished! I'm sure someone has what they consider to be a valid explanation as to why the bully was not punished, but the bottom line is that bullying has for generations, remained resilient even after causing massive damage to many wonderful young adults. I am also one of those victims! There is no excuse for this twisted rule; the Bully should have been suspended and the victim should have received the "free pass."

I know for an absolute fact that bullying has had a lasting negative impact on my life. In Junior High school I should have been thoroughly engulfed in cultivating a solid educational foundation; but in fact I was in fear for my life, most of the time!

Here I am, fifty years after attending Junior High School, once again dealing with the issue of Bullying on behalf of a twelve year old young adult. I actually felt my heart drop when this 12 year old boy told me that he was starting to believe that he was "worthless," because of the abuse by bullies. Lost for words I quickly said," do not ever let anyone tell you that you are worthless! You can do anything, as long as you set your mind to it! It is the bully that is worthless. The Bully is pushing you around because he does not believe in himself."

Bullies are Predators, just looking for anyone, who might appear to be vulnerable.

I choose not to name the school or school district where this particular problem proliferates because abuse by peers thrives in many schools. It would be criminal on my part to taint all of the other wonderful things that principals and teachers have done for our children. Most teachers commit their heart, soul, and life, in an effort to make our children the best that they can be!

One possible solution to this problem is to report all instances of bullying first to the teacher and the principal. If nothing is done within a few days report the incident to the school superintendant; this action has the effect of putting the administrators on the same playing field. If the bullying still persists contact your local Board of Education. The act of informing the teacher, principal, Superintendant, and the Board of Education, has the effect of bridging the communications gap which often exists between different levels of administration. I would expect results after this action is taken!

Please! Please! Please! Forward this article to your friends and ask them to share incidents of bullying that their children have experienced, in the comments section of this blog. Please include suggestions that might help quench bullying in our schools! It would be wonderful if you would refrain from verbally destroying a particular school or school district; this has the effect of punishing our teachers that have always been advocates for our young adults.

Again, please report instances of bullying first to the teacher and principal, then to the Superintendant, and finally to the Board of Education. Together we can eradicate the scourge of bullying , from our schools.

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2011-07-15T20:50:00.000-04:00

Blood Drive at K of C Patchogue
Please remember that we are having a blood drive at the Patchogue Knights of Columbus Council Hal, located at 38 W. 1st Street in Patchogue, on Saturday, July 16th from 8:30 am – 1 pm. You all know how important it is to give blood, so if you are able, please come down and donate. And if you are not certain if you are eligible to donate, come down and inquire. Many people who think that they cannot donate because of problems in the past can now donate. Many of the old rules and restrictions have been lifted or changed. So please make every effort to come down, the life you save may be your own, or someone you love!

From:
Michael Boehm

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2011-06-25T20:34:00.000-04:00

Is Facebook Your Resume

I have been telling my grandchildren to be careful what they publish on Facebook. I have repeatedly told them that whatever they publish on their Facebook page could be used against them in later years. Did they listen? I don't think so!

As a test, I went to Facebook and looked up the name of a person that I went to Jr. High School with, over 50 years ago. I did not find my classmates profile, but I did find the profile of another young lady, who has the same name. I decided to see exactly how much information this person was sharing with the world; which includes me, a perfect stranger. I discovered that I had immediate access to this persons personal information. In just minutes I knew what University she attends, what state she lives in, what books she reads, what movies she like, what TV programs she looks at, and also had access to the names and photos of over 550 of her friends.

I have learned through the "Life School of Hard Knocks," one corollary of life, that stands above all others; do not give too much information! Did the above individuals give too much information? "You bet" they did! Who are they giving this information to? Everybody!

A valuable secret of salesmanship, is to force your potential customer to respond with the answer "yes," to your questions, as many times as possible, before you actually try to make the sale. This secret is also applicable to getting accepted to a college, and applying for a job. A customer, an employment officer, or a college admissions officer, is more likely to grant his approval, if you do not give him any opportunity to say "no." The multitude of information that is available on Facebook, other social media sites, and or Blogs, gives an employment officer many opportunities to say no! Most people simply give away, too much information!

I looked up yet another female on Facebook, who is a complete stranger to me and read the following: "I am not a Bitch; I just have a low tolerance for bullshit!" I read the following on another facebook site, "I'm very easy to get along with, and I'm the craziest person alive! I wonder if this public information will have any impact on a future employer's decision to hire these females? Humm...

The previous examples do indeed indicate that, the material you publish on Facebook and other Internet media, could be viewed by people that are considering and evaluating your Resume!

I believe that it is a good idea to re-evaluate your Facebook, and other social media account, privacy settings. I personally would not allow any of my information to be available to "Everyone." Facebook is not like a Blog where there is usually one author, and the author of the Blog, has control over its content. In the case of Facebook and other on-line media, one of your friends could publish something stupid, that could eventually come back to haunt you in the future.

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2011-06-12T12:56:00.000-04:00

Men Can't Multitask!

My wife and I have been having fun with the premise of "Female Multitasking" for years. I always knew that my wife has the ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time; I am unable to duplicate her ability to multitask.

I have accepted my wife's ability to talk on the phone, fill out a business form, and put dishes in the dishwasher all at the same time! Could be time slicing but it's more fun to think of it as multitasking! I am uncomfortable with the Idea of performing multiple tasks at the same time. Whenever my wife asks me to consider a task while I am already in the midst of executing another task, my answer is always the same; "Men are hunters and can only focus in one thing at a time." "Ask me later!" "GGGrrr..."

Whenever my wife and I go to the supermarket, we religiously perform the same ritual; we look for a female at the checkout! Of course there are varying degrees of multitasking, and some are better than others at this task; I can always find a female at the checkout that is feeding items through the scanner, and talking to the customer at the same time!

At the supermarket, Marie and I always look for the smallest line. It is at this line where we usually find a "Female Multitasking Guru." I would guess that there are many Men who are very proficient at multitasking; then again, could it be that they prefer to watch the Baseball Game on TV? Are they smarter than they are letting on? Humm.....

This article does not represent a scientific study, but is only a collection of observations. My wife and I would love to hear your views and observations on male verses female multitasking; please publish your thoughts in the Comments Box.

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2011-06-11T20:54:00.000-04:00

K of C Doo-Wop Dance
Last chance to purchase tickets to the DOO-WOP dance we are holding at the Patchogue Knights of Columbus on June 18th. Please contact me no later than Monday, 6/13th to let me know if you need tickets.

Here are the details :

Dinner and Dancing with unlimited beer, wine & soda with coffee and cake, featuring the sounds of the live band “Somewhere in Time”. This band has played all over the Tri-State area, and has been featured at the Patchogue Theater with Mickey B. on a number of occasions.

Dance will be held at the Patchogue K of C, 38 W. 1st Street, off Waverly Ave. on Saturday June 18th from 7 – 11 pm. Doors open at 6:30. Cost is only $30 per person. Please e-mail me at mb1122@msn.com, or call Mike at (631)774-2605 for more info or for tickets. You need to call to reserve tickets, as it is getting close to the date.

Michael Boehm
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2011-06-09T20:51:00.000-04:00

Karaoke at K of C
Just a reminder that this Friday evening, June 10th the Patchogue Knights of Columbus is holding a Karaoke Knight at their council hall, located at 38 1st Street, in Patchogue, off of Waverly Ave.. The cost for this event is only $20 per person, which includes salad, dinner, cake and coffee with unlimited beer, wine & soda all evening.

The time is from 7 pm – 11 pm, with the doors opening at 6:30. For more info or tickets call Kevin at (516) 424-2999. Please remember that all proceeds from these events goes to CHARITY! Thank you, and I hope to see you there!

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2011-06-07T20:06:00.000-04:00

Fifth Precinct Monthly

Community Meeting

The Fifth Precinct will be conducting its monthly open community meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Fifth Precinct, 125 Waverly Avenue, Patchogue.

You do not have to be a representative of any group such as the Neighborhood Watch! Anyone can attend this meeting and voice your concerns about neighborhood issues.

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2011-05-27T22:25:00.001-04:00

4th of July Fireworks

Renewal Press Conference

A press conference was held today, Friday, May 27th, at the Bay Shore Marina. Hosted by Phil Nolan, Town of Islip Supervisor, at the Bay Shore Marina. The focus of this Press Conference is "4th of July fireworks renewal."

The Town of Islip will renew their fireworks for the first time since 1989; an annual 4th of July fireworks tradition was first started by the Bay Shore Lions Club in 1965. The money for the fireworks in those early years was collected the old fashion way-by “passing the hat” before the 4th of July fireworks started. These fireworks are raised and paid for by the Go 4th on the Bay Committee, a private group wishing to support America’s Patriotism and celebrate the Nation’s Independence.

Event Photo:
(Pictured L to R)

The Wiseman, B-103; Belinda Groneman, President of PRONTO; Kathleen Heinlein, President Captree Boatman Assoc.; Vivian Hart, Executive Director of PRONTO, Nina Felton, of PRONTO; Myself- Philip Butler Producer, Go 4th on the Bay; and Phil Nolan Town of Islip Supervisor.

Message from Philip Butler:

Our press conference held today at the Bay Shore Marina was a raving success. As a resident of the Village, I sincerely wish Patchogue would be able to enjoy and benefit the good will and media that this "Go 4th on the Bay" will generate for us all.

Concept - To create an annual 4th of July celebration for all Long Islanders to be proud of and enjoy. Each year we will salute one of our military services, with the U.S. Army our honoree for 2011; Marines for 2012; Navy for 2113; Air Force 2014, and Coast Guard 2015. Plans feature the Rising of the Colors with a Fly-over of the entire Great South Bay, and as the grand finale World Class fireworks by the renowned Gruccis of New York all to celebrate our Nations Birthday.

The Gruccis will be producing the 2nd annual Go 4th on the Bay fireworks program on our beautiful Great South Bay, to celebrate our nation's 235th Birthday. The best and most spectacular viewing of the 4th of July shows would be from the Captree Boat Fleet- www.captreefleet.com/; your own boat; for the landlubbers, good viewing would be from most of the Fire Island bay fronts and shorelines of the bay from Smith Point to Bay Shore.

Philip Butler

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2011-05-23T19:55:00.005-04:00

Knight at the Races Cancelled

K of C Patchogue, NY

Due to the lack of enough advanced ticket sales, the Knight at the Races that was scheduled for this Sunday, May 29th has been canceled.

To have one of these events it takes a lot of effort, time and a significant amount of money that needs to be laid out in advance to purchase all of the food and supplies that are needed. We have learned in the past that we cannot just “assume” that people are going to come to one of these events, and with so few tickets sold, the council cannot afford to go forward and possibly lose the funds that are necessary for the initial cost.

We will let you know if and when another Knight at the Races will be held. Thank you for understanding, and have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend.

Michael Boehm

Knight at the Races Cancelled

K of C Patchogue, NY

Just a reminder, the K of C is holding a Knight at the Races on this Sunday, May 29th at the Council Hall.

Doors open at 6 pm and the cost is $15 pp for a BBQ dinner w/ beer, wine and soda all night. Please come down and support this very important fundraiser for our Council.

Call our Warden Bill F. at 988-3758 for tickets or more info.

CANCELLED!

S/K Michael Boehm
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2011-05-19T22:04:00.001-04:00

Message From the Suffolk County Police Department:

Get $200. for your Illegal Handgun.

Remain completely anonymous; no questions asked.

Drop Handguns off on Saturday May 28, 2011, between 9AM and 12 PM.

Police Headquarters

30 Yaphank Avenue

Yaphank, NY, 11980, 631 852 6530

LIE to Exit 67 South

Travel one half mile

Police Headquarters is on your Right.

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2011-05-16T17:48:00.000-04:00

Fireworks 2011 on the

Great South Bay

Of all of the Patchogue Community Events that I have ever attended, Just one event retains a permanent place in mind. I can recall Nine family members which include my Four Grandchildren, walking down Cedar Avenue toward the water. We ultimately found our way to the village park off of South Ocean Avenue. Everyone was reclining on blankets except my Grandchildren; they were busy tying everyone's "Glowing Necklaces" together . The glowing Necklaces were purchased from a vender, and my Grandchildren managed to convince everyone else's children to help them make a very long jump rope. The Grucci Fireworks started and everyone was enjoying the Fireworks Display, while a second feature show was also in progress at the same time. Thirty Five children were jumping rope amidst the sights and sounds of the fireworks display, using their custom designed "Glowing Jump Rope." It is events such as this that create precious memories because they include both family and community. Our village had the fireworks for about Eight Years and for some unknown reason the fireworks displays were simply discontinued. This just hurts my heart!

Last year Philip Butler from the Grucci Family applied to the Village of Patchogue, for a permit to present a Fireworks Display on the Fourth of July, from a Barge, off of Patchogue. The permit was granted and then rescinded. As a result the Fireworks display was moved to Davis Park on Fire Island. The residents of Davis Park were ecstatic, the residents of Patchogue would have preferred to have the fireworks in our home town. The entire display was paid for, not by the village of Patchogue, but by donations.

Why would I be disconcerted about not having Fireworks in Patchogue? Patchogue is an amazing community. Unlike many other communities, Patchogue takes on the persona of a quaint country village; which it is. Our village has an energy of its own and one can feel that energy at any of our many community events. And now the important part! Our children also respond to the overwhelming sense of community in our village.

Youth has a compelling need to belong to something. My father told me "son! you must be very careful to only "Hang out, with people that you admire, because you will eventually become just like your friends." It is obvious to me that the good example set forth by the community minded residents of Patchogue Village has had a positive effect on our children. Patchogue Village still enjoys a point Three Percent Crime Rate, when the national norm for a given city in America is One Hundred. This is not an accident, because our community, is also part of our extended family. Herein lies what is unique about Patchogue!

The annual Fourth of July Fireworks Display, that was re-initiated last year has the theme, "Salute to our Military." Every year we will pay homage to a different branch of our Military Service. What a wonderful idea!

Philip Butler is not a "Johnny come lately," that just decided to get involved with Patchogue Village. Philip has always been a relentless activist for Patchogue Village, our Chamber of Commerce, and the Catholic Community. You may still be waiting for Waverly Avenue to be paved, if it were not for the efforts of Philip Butler.

(Please read the following Blog Article.)

http://mapleavenuenw.blogspot.com/2009/04/county-road-19-construction-project.html#links

Granted that we have our differences of opinion; but I see no rational reason to let a disagreement on one issue, interfere with the resolution of a completely different issue. Hopefully we could resolve this issue, and let this years Fireworks Display go forward.

An annual Fireworks displays should be part of the "Patchogue Experience; if not for us, then for our children."

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2011-05-13T21:27:00.001-04:00

The Patchogue Knights of Columbus is holding a 1950's Doo-Wop Dance.

The Dance will be held at the K of C Hall, located at 38 West 1st St. Patchogue (off Waverly Ave.)

We will be featuring the sounds of "Somewhere in Time", a live Band that has played all over L.I., including the Patchogue Theater with Mickey B..

Tickets are only $30 per person, and include a full buffet Dinner with unlimited beer, wine & soda and coffee and cake. The date is Saturday Night, June 18th, from 7 pm - 11 pm. Don't miss out on a night of music and fun, right here in our own back yard!

Call Mike Boehm @ 774-2605 for more info or to purchase tickets.

S/K Michael Boehm

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2011-05-13T20:47:00.001-04:00

James Tate Should go to the Prom

Never in all the years that I have been on this planet have I ever seen such ridiculous, egocentric behavior, on the part of a school administrator. Beth Smith the Head Master of Shelton High School in Connecticut precluded James Tate from attending his Prom, because he taped a few cardboard letters to the side of the building, asking Sonali Rodrigues to come to the prom with him.

If James used spray paint to deliver his message I would agree with the Headmaster's decision, but absolutely no damage was done to the Building. James Tate did not use spray paint, and went out of his way to avoid defacing the building.

In 2010 I wrote an article about Graffiti in Hawaii, praising the Graffiti Artists for practicing their craft without causing any permanent damage. Graffiti in the Island if Hawaii is not done with paint, but with colored rocks. My wife and I were exuberant because we finally found a culture of young people that took a stand for civility, and absolutely refused to deface their environment. These Kids "did their Graffiti art" using White and Black rocks. It is James Tate's deliberate decision to protect our environment, by not defacing the School building, that sounded Bells and Whistles in my head. Finally the Hawaiian mentality manifests itself through James Tate, and he is punished!

To compound the injustice one hundred dissenting students were also punished! I have seen this type of behavior before; it is the Head Master of the school that should be reprimanded, not the students. James Tate, Sonali Rodriguez, and the One Hundred students that protested this injustice should forever be proud of their actions; they have crossed over to adulthood.

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2011-05-08T23:01:00.001-04:00

Southwest Airlines Direct Flights

Going on Vacation, better check for flight availability as soon as possible; you may not be able to book a direct flight!

For many years my wife and I have had the good fortune, to have been able to book a nonstop flight to visit out relatives in Las Vegas. This year we were unable to book a direct flight from Islip McArthur Airport on Southwest Airlines, to Las Vegas.

I must admit that I have, for many years, taken direct flights for granted. In the past I got on the plane at Islip McArthur, and arrived in Vegas about six hours later. “How wonderful;” all I had to do was relax and listen to my Ipod for a few hours and voila, it’s party time in Vegas!

I always equate and compare the success of a given vacation to attending Boy Scout Camp; where the Scoutmaster takes care of the details, and I am free to run around in the woods with my friends, chasing Snakes and Frogs.

This year, due to the absence of a direct flight, I was forced to take a flight that required that I change planes in Baltimore, MD. At first I perceived this Plane change in Baltimore as a minor inconvenience; unfortunately it ultimately turned out to be a very unpleasant experience. The act of adding any amount of time to a flight, in the form of a layover/ plane change, can have a detrimental effect on a vacation. In my case, the first day of my vacation was transformed into a Biathlon. I go on vacation to escape from the details of life; any distraction from that end is not in the best interest of the customer or the airline.

The connection plane that was to pick us up in Baltimore, encountered some bad weather, and was two hours late. The two hour delay was just long enough to allow the storm to arrive at Baltimore, causing all routes to be shut down. If I had a direct flight, this could not have happened. Our departure from Baltimore also encountered additional delays such as sitting in our Plane while on the Tarmac, for two hours. What was originally scheduled to be a Seven hour flight wound up costing us Eleven and One half hours, including missing our Las Vegas transportation connection? None of this would have happened if we would have had a direct flight.

There is now an additional type of flight that you can book which requires a plane change, and in addition, a second landing, before proceeding on route to the final destination. For lack of a better term to describe this type of flight, I will call it a Triathlon flight.

It appears that the Airline Industry has lost touch with the desires of their customers; a Biathlon or Triathlon flight can totally disrupt a festive vacation. These new types of flights add additional burden, to people that have problems with air travel.

In all fairness to Southwest I must say a few good words about my return flight. My return flight was flawless. The crew from both legs of my return flight "entertained" the passengers. A stewardess sang a few funny songs, and made many witty comments, which had the effect of taking the "edge" off of the flight. Other crew members from both flights also created a casual "fun filled" atmosphere, by also making witty comments. Kudos to the Southwest crew for creating a casual and "fun atmosphere," on our return flight.

Southwest said that they do indeed have direct flights to Vegas, but I was unable to find one. My wife and I have been flying with Southwest for many years; hopefully they will find a way to foster more direct flights to Vegas.

May I suggest offering Direct Flights, six months in advance, advertised via online promotional material; this will help Southwest to fill the direct flight planes, and entice customers to book early! How about querying customers online, asking them when they plan to travel, and if they would like a direct flight; this would provide Southwest with valuable information. This is the online age, and Southwest should be able to take advantage of that!

I am praying that Burger King would go into the Airline Transportation Business, so that I could “have it my way.” “Please help send this boy to camp.”

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2011-05-07T20:52:00.000-04:00

From the Fifth Precinct in Patchogue

Reminder:
Next Fifth Precinct Open Community Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Fifth Precinct, 125 Waverly Avenue , Patchogue.

(You do not have to be a community Leader, or be a representative of any group to attend this "Community Meeting.")

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2011-04-26T13:14:00.005-04:00

Patchogue

The New European Style Culture

In 2007 I published an article about the "Ugly" lights on North Ocean Avenue. I still think the lights are Beautiful, but I republished this article to bring focus to a small segment of that article.

http://mapleavenuenw.blogspot.com/2007/11/beautiful-lighting-on-north-ocean.html#links

In the article, I mentioned that the people of Europe, were far superior to us in the area of social interaction. Patchogue has been moving forward to create a community environment, and I am now amazed to see that we are actually beginning to look like a European Community. Our village has become a venue for Restaurants, and social gathering; similar to that found in the British Pub Culture. The Patchogue Theatre has become the Keystone of, and an integral part of the Restaurant and Pub Scene. The Patchogue Village Facebook site has become the "Town Crier." of our community.

I have for years, been patiently waiting for our village to evolve to where it is now! Everything will be "downhill, with the wind at our backs," from now on! Kudos to Patchogue Village!

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2011-04-24T14:30:00.008-04:00

Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant

in Retrospect

In my opinion, It has become more than apparent that Nuclear Power is not totally safe; at least with some of the current Nuclear Reactor Designs.

The Shoreham Nuclear Power Plant, in NY, was the only nuclear facility that was closed before it was put into commercial service. In actuality the plant was put into operation at 25% power, just to test the equipment. The Power Plant was decommissioned because evacuation was deemed impossible.

I put myself in the shoes of the poor people that are affected by the Nuclear Catastrophe in Japan and thank God that we decommissioned the Shoreham Nuclear Plant.

In my opinion, evacuation is and has never been the real problem, but just a distraction that cloaks the real horror; millions of people in Japan, no longer have use of their Homes! God help the Japanese people, but this catastrophe could have happened to us! It may appear to be calloused on my part, but I feel compelled to make the parallel comparison.

I have not totally given up on Nuclear Power. There is still some hope for the Nuclear Industry. I would feel more comfortable with nuclear power if more research were done, in the area of stopping and controlling an out of control reactor.

Scientists have for the past decade, been working on a new technology, Reactor design, that is called a Pebble Bed Reactor. Tennis Ball sized Balls which are comprised of a mixture of Graphite and Uranium. The Uranium is dispersed, in a known concentration, throughout the Graphite Ball. This configuration is said by some to be "Safer" than many of the Reactors that are currently in use. (Please read the article below.)

http://dvice.com/archives/2011/03/how-to-make-a-n.php

Other people take a more pragmatic approach and believe that almost any device could "Blow Up" when operated incorrectly.

I personally feel that I would be more comfortable with Nuclear Power , if the industry would continue research on the Pebble Bed Reactor, with Safety being held as paramount.

My heart goes to the Japanese for their unfortunate tragedy; may additional research prevent this type of catastrophe from ever happening again.

Also Read:
http://stevenkontos.blogspot.com/2011/03/shoreham-nuclear-power-plant.html

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2011-04-16T21:44:00.006-04:00

Patchogue, NY

Windsurfing
in Patchogue Bay
at Thirty Miles Per Hour

While everyone in Patchogue was staying indoors, to get away from the wind and the rain, a local athlete was enjoying the huge waves in the Great South Bay.

(Left click the arrow to start the VIDEO)

I have seen this person before, Windsurfing off of the Sandspit Marina. This athlete can be seen practicing his skill, usually on Saturday and or Sunday afternoon.

Unlike other weekends I closely followed the young Windsurfer because the waves were very high, and the wind was extremely strong. From the videos, it appeared that the young athlete was traveling at a speed of about 30 Miles Per Hour. I once owned a small boat and it only went 28 MPH at full throttle.

When I saw the person fall off of his Surfboard, into the cold and stormy seas, I closely observed him, just in case he was unable to get back up. The surfer eventually demonstrated that he was indeed proficient at getting back up on his Surfboard while in the water.

I would have given Windsurfing a try when I was 18 years old, but for now, viewing through the lens of a Camera is just fine.

FYI: a close inspection of the photos revealed that the surfer was indeed wearing flotation equipment for safety; unfortunately many young people would not have been as smart as this young man.

(Left click the photo twice to enlarge)

Great Show!!!

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2011-04-04T22:43:00.003-04:00

Patchogue New York:
*

Photo of the Week

Photograph of the Davis Park Casino, taken from the Sandspit Marina in Patchogue, NY. Conditions this week were just perfect for taking this Photo across the Great South Bay. It was cool and windy, with an almost total absence of haze. If anyone would like a copy of the "Photograph File" in high resolution just send an email to
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davispark2000-manw@yahoo.com
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(Left Click the Photo Twice to Make it larger.)

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2011-03-27T21:24:00.001-04:00

Patchogue NY:

Saint Patricks Day Parade

March 27, 2011

(Double left click any photo to make it larger)

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2011-03-20T13:03:00.006-04:00

YOU WILL BE AMAZED!

(You might want to print this page before proceeding!)

Learn How to use Google Map on the Street level

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words.

The photo below of Four Corners in Patchogue, NY was taken from Google Map.

Rather than bore you with words, lets go into "Quick Start Mode."

1 Open Microsoft Internet Explorer (browser).

2. Type "www.google.com" in the URL Box (no quotes).

3. Once in Google, Left Click (LC) the word "Maps."

4. In the Box that is next to the text that says "Google Maps," type a street address such as: "1 south ocean avenue, patchogue, ny" (do not type the quotes), and Press the enter key.

5. You will now be looking at a map of Patchogue, with the letter "A" located at "1 South Ocean Ave, Patchogue, NY. "OK THAT'S NICE! Now what!"

6. In the upper Left Hand Corner of the Map, you will see an icon of a Man, just above the "Plus and Minus Signs. Position the "Mouse Arrow" on top of the Icon of the "Man." Hold down the Left Mouse Button, and drag the icon of the man, onto the address 1, South Ocean avenue, and release the mouse button. (NOTE The small circle below the Man Icon is the actual area that will be viewed. (only streets that turn Blue on the map can be viewed)

7. You should now be looking at Photo of "Four Corners," in Patchogue, NY. (See the Screen Capture Photo below.)

8. You can now place your "Mouse arrow" on the Photo and drag it around by holding down the Left Mouse Button. You can look around the street 360 degrees by dragging the photo.

9. While moving your Mouse around the photo of Four Corners, you will see a "CIRCLE" along the road; if you Double Left Click the "Circle" the photo will view from that new location. You can literally walk up and down Main Street by double clicking the circles.

10. The Wheel on your Mouse is used to "zoom in and out." If you zoom too far out you will once again arrive at the Map, not the Photo!
I used this tool before going on vacation to Hawaii, to familiarize myself with the roads of Oahu. This tool helped to make my vacation "stress free." While driving through Oahu, I was thoroughly familiar with roads and venues that would otherwise have been totally foreign to me.

If this is handy please forward this Blog link to your friends.

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(Left click photo to make it larger)

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2011-02-25T19:47:00.002-05:00

Patchogue, NY

TriTec Proposal

Why is it that I feel that this TriTec issue is a "Dun Deal," and our representatives are going to give away the store, by letting Tritec have the "Goose that laid the Golden Egg."

Actually the real issue is about "Give and take!" In the original Tritec Proposal, there was "give and take;" in the new proposal, I feel that Tritec would win both the battle and the war.

May I suggest what might be termed, "Rent Controlled Office Space." Isn't it about time we gave the Businessmen in our village a break! Reserve by covenant, the original 50 rooms that would have been allotted to the Hotel, and dedicate them to "low cost office rental."

In Patchogue, our businessmen currently pay $3000., for an office that is the size of a latrine. Break up each suite and change the zoning to allow two businesses to share a common office space. Somehow the total mandated rental cost, per suite, that can be shared by two businesses, must not exceed $1000. In addition, two suites would be set aside to be used as shared Conference Rooms.

If we could convince Tritec to help our businessmen, I will again be in favor of accepting Tritec's proposal. If Tritec only wants to "take" instead of "give;" then we should reject the proposal in its entirety!

Our Businessman do need reasonable cost office rental space, and we do not need more Rental Housing. Good business is all about compromise!

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2011-02-18T20:25:00.003-05:00

Interested in the History of, Your Home Town, PATCHOGUE, NY?

Who lived in your house in 1904?

This information is still available, and it is online!

A document called the, PATCHOGUE BUSINESS AND RESIDENTIAL DIRECTORY, was published in 1904 and can still be examined at the URL Link below.

http://www.archive.org/stream/argusbusinessres00patc/argusbusinessres00patc_djvu.txt

I used this document and found out who the owners of my house were in 1904. I found out who the first two owners of my house were; both now rest in Cedar Grove Cemetery; just two blocks from my home.

An Advertisement from that Directory:

HYGEIA ICE CO. OF PATCHOGUE.

All typhoid's, all malarial, contagious, and organic diseases, are

due to the water we drink. Guard yourself against such by using

our products. A postal will bring wagon to your door

Another Advertisement from this Directory:

The Great Department Store of Greater Patchogue,

HAMMOND, MILLS & COMPANY.

Here is Gathered a Most Complete Assortment of Household and Personal

Necessities — the Largest on Long Island. We invite your inspection.

You Can't Miss Its Location.

COR. MAIN ST. AND OCEAN AVE. PATCHOGXTE, N. Y.

I originally found the above link in our own "world renowned," Patchogue Medford Library.
http://www.pmlib.org/

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2011-02-12T14:28:00.003-05:00

"You've got to Admire the Egyptians!"

This is a neighborhood Blog; dedicated to the town of Patchogue, New York, USA. We never publish articles on international events! The ouster of a dictatorship by peaceful means both took my breath away, and captured my heart!

Never in "my wildest imagination" could I ever visualize a dictatorship being overturned by peaceful means! I must admit that my perception of Egypt has traditionally been clouded by a total lack of comprehensive input about the general populous! Unfortunately Americans are constantly being reminded of unfavorable factions in the Middle East, every time we go to an Airport!

Your peaceful protest has shown the World that we do indeed have a common desire to be free. It is your peaceful protest, courage, and self restraint that has capture the hearts of all Americans!

History will forever remember your courage and self control! Congratulations Egypt!

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2011-01-25T22:17:00.006-05:00

Last Chance to Make the Tritec Deal Acceptable

I did not attend the January 24, 2011 Patchogue Village meeting where the Village Board was going to make a decision on the TriTec Issue! Why?....... because I felt that the decision had already been made, even before the Elks Club Forum! I did not want to waste my time only to be angered by a decision that I figured was inevitable!

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the final decision was postponed until March 1, 2011. I believe that it is up to our Mayor and Village Board members to negotiate the best possible deal with Tritec on our behalf; granting 291 rental apartments to Tritec is the same as giving away the Goose that laid the golden egg!

I do not think that anyone is against granting Tritec permission to start construction, but some portion of the agreement must be in the best interest of our village; 291 rentals is not! We do need to protect our village from possible abuse in the future.

I suggested reserving and designating a group of apartments as "Condo," and allow them to be rented as hotel rooms. Please read the article below! (Left click the link below)

http://mapleavenuenw.blogspot.com/2011/01/patchogue-ny-possible-solution-to.html#links

Kellene Guyer is also in favor of building the apartments, but with Co-op owner occupied provisions, that keep our "Young Professionals," on the Radar Screen. Please read the article that was written by Kellene Guyer. (Left click the link below)

http://patchogue.patch.com/articles/op-ed-letter-to-mayor-and-trustees-on-new-village-project

In my opinion approving the construction of 291 apartments without provisions that protect our neighborhood and children, is unacceptable.

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2011-01-20T19:06:00.012-05:00

PATCHOGUE, NY

Neighborhood Watch Success Story

Inspector Mojica has forwarded a link to a Neighborhood Watch success story in Boston. Please read the article below; we must not become complacent!
_________________________________________

The below news article is provided for your reading pleasure. While reading this article, keep in mind that the Suffolk County Police Department in general and the Fifth Precinct in particular do provide assistance to those who are interested in starting a neighborhood watch organization.

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view.bg?articleid=1309852

Inspector Aristides Mojica

Commanding Officer, Fifth Precinct

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2011-01-16T15:03:00.007-05:00

New Patchogue YMCA Brought a Smile to my Face

Yesterday my wife and I decided to visit the New Patchogue YMCA, to "take a look" at the new facility. I was impressed with the new facility. The Locker Room is the most important part of the building, that could make or break your Health Club experience. In the case of our Patchogue YMCA, the locker room has everything one could possibly want.
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A representative from the "Y" personally escorted my wife and I through the Gym, Aerobics Rooms, and finally to the Pool. A single room caught my eye! This room had a few desks, a Ping Pong table, a Shuffle Board Table, and a few Computers. I exclaimed! Wow! A Recreation Room........Do teenagers have to be a member to use this room? Our guide quickly responded; No we let teenagers in to this room, free of charge if they can show that they are currently attending school. This room is available to our children to do their homework.
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I can by personal experience relate to this; it's called "Caring."In the Fifties, many people, groups, and organizations went out of their way to help children and Teenagers; not just their children, but any and all children! Today, community assistance to children is not as prevalent as it could be; that is why I was impressed with the YMCA!
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I can personally attest to the importance of caring; the YMCA has demonstrated that it does indeed care for children and Teenagers! With a really big smile on my face I say "Kudos," to the YMCA. Why? Because they care!
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(Now... don't have your children get off the school bus at the YMCA; please make a phone call, in advance, to get the details.)

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2011-01-12T12:56:00.003-05:00

Patchogue NY:

Possible Solution to the Tritek Delemma!

The original Tritek proposal for Main Street, Patchogue, NY, included a Hotel and Rental units! Many people are displeased with the current proposal from Tritek which does not include a Hotel! A merchant from Patchogue suggested that we start all over from ground zero!

I have a suggestion that may help to defuse the controversy. In addition, my suggestion would include Tritek, as part of the solution.

Using a condo complex called "Villas by the Sea," in Georgia, as a template; Tritek could take the 106 units that were originally slated for Hotel Rooms, and convert them to Condos. Each condo unit would be privately owned. The "Villas by the Sea" model, allows for the condos to be used as rentals if approved by the individual owners. All of the owners of the individual units constitute a "Condo Association."

An individual Condo unit owner can choose to live there, or allow his unit to be available for long and or short term rental. It is the short term rental facility that allows the complex to function as a Hotel.

An independent Rental Management Company would be in charge of rentals. A Maid Service would be resident; and a maintenance company could be on call. If something like a TV is broken, the Building Manager will call the Maintenance Company to deal with the issue.

Tritek as well as the individual condo owners would receive a check each month in compensation for the rental of their units, and Maintenance fees would be paid to Tritek by the Condo owners.

Given these difficult times, this proposal could solve our problem. My suggestion could be used as an abstract model, that would be altered through negotiations, with the ultimate goal of creating something that will benefit both Patchogue, and Tritek.

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2011-01-06T19:50:00.008-05:00

Patchogue, TriTec Swezey's Project

On Wednesday Jan. 5, 2011, "Patchogue First," hosted a Community Forum to discuss the changes that have been made, by the TriTec Corporation, to the original Swezey property, construction project, on Main Street, in Patchogue, NY. This is the second community forum; almost three years after the first and original forum.

In 2008 the TriTec Corporation originally proposed a Hotel, with a multi tier Parking Garage, a pedestrian Promenade, and a Tower with a Community Room at the top, that could be used for community events such as an art exhibit. The possible vista from the tower was flaunted.

Half of the rooms in the complex, were slated to be used for the hotel; the remaining rooms were slated to be condos or rentals. Although ambiguous the entire community was mesmerized with, and in favor of, the original Tritec Hotel proposal. I was in favor of the project! It did appear to be a project that could bolster Patchogue, as a genuine venue.

Details of the first and original March 2, 2008, TriTec forum, at the Patchogue Theatre can be found at the URL Below. http://mapleavenuenw.blogspot.com/2008/03/tri-tec-presentation-at-patchogue.html

T On January 5, 2011 a second Community Forum was held at the Elks Club, in Patchogue, because the TriTec corp changed the terms of the original agreement. The new proposal is as follows:

No Hotel

291 rental units (The Devil is in the details! Rental as opposed to Owner Occupied)

No Tower

No parking Garage

In one case TriTec was not able to entice a well known Hotel Chain to build in Patchogue because the hotel wanted dedicated parking; triTec offered shared parking.

A few residents who are currently “Renters,” were in favor of the 291 rental units. TriTec kept playing the "Our Children Card." One Renter/resident stated that his children cannot afford to pay current rental rates in Suffolk County. As stated by TriTec only 64 units would be used as "Work Force Housing" with a slightly cheaper rental rate.

The entire TriTec presentation took on the persona of an employer dealing with a Union Negotiating Team; offer them nothing and hope that they will settle for less! As I perceive their offering; they are not giving us anything that will bolster our mission to become a venue; rental housing does not create a venue.

A woman made a statement that Patchogue is trying to become a "Destination;" she asked, "What kind of destination?" The woman suggested that progress should be equated against quality of life. In my opinion 291 Rental Housing Units does not create a destination, nor does it improve our quality of life!.

Another resident stated that the current parking situation in the area of the Brick House is critical. 291 rental units could generate an additional 600 cars. The only parking TriTec offered was some basement parking; not nearly enough!

TriTec suggested that we let them build 291 Rental Apartments, with the possibility of future expansion. Exactly how stupid do they think we are! The only one who would benefit from 291 Rental Units is the TriTec Corporation! We all know that Santa Clause is dead! One gentleman stated at the meeting that we have absolutely no control over Section 8 placement; he feared that 291 section 8 rentals could appear on Main Street!

So!..... “Where’s the beef?” “What’s in this deal for Patchogue?” Does Patchogue need more rental Housing, in additional to the Clare Rose 140 unit, owner occupied development? I don’t think so. If some spice were added to the deal it may once again become palatable, as it was in 2008.

I would like to see the proposed complex at the Swezey’s location, be offered as a combination of dedicated Workforce Housing, Senior Housing, Condo owner occupied housing and also with provision for at least 20 Professional Business Offices. I would like to see something that benefits Patchogue, not just the triTec Corp.

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2011-01-02T13:45:00.002-05:00

Quanza

December 26, marks the beginning of the Seven day African American Holiday of Quanza.

The founders of the Holiday of Quanza had the wisdom to realize the importance of community values. Quanza stresses family, community unity, respect, ancestry, and the value of hard work.

Most of all, the founders of Quanza realized the value of educating their children.

As stated earlier in a previous post in this Gazette

" If we do not provide our children with something to identify with, they will figure out something for themselves."

Happy Quanza!

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2011-01-01T11:32:00.007-05:00

PATCHOGUE, NY:

IMPORTANT!!!!!

Received this email from a concerned neighbor:

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

I would like to advise you that I read in the LI Advance today that a Community Forum sponsored by Patchogue First (which are the elected officials of Patchogue Village) www.patchoguefirst.com/government is scheduled to meet at the Elks Club on Oak Street, one block off Main Street in Patchogue on Wednesday, Jan 5 at 7:30 to discuss the Tritec 291 rental apartments to be built on the four corners. The application to approve the development is scheduled for vote sometime in January or February.

I think this development will leave a legacy for our children and grandchildren of turning Patchogue into an undesirable heavily populated urban area characterized by dense, impoverished housing.

A quick look at the apartments across from the Patchogue Post Office and behind Burlington Coat Factory will give you a quick snapshot of the future of Patchogue if this development is approved.

Also, if you were not aware the hotel will not be built.

Let’s keep our community on the right path of a village that is turning to a charming desirable downtown. Make you voice heard, this development is wrong for the community.

Craig

Comment From the Webmaster:
Originally I was in favor of the TriTec proposal which included a Hotel, Restaurant or meeting room, landscaped Pedestrian Area, 50% Hotel Rooms, and 50% Rental Rooms.

I am not in favor of any changes to the original TriTec Proposal. Patchogue has more than it's fair share of Renter Occupied Housing; we host 22% more Renter Occupied Housing than the national average.

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2010-12-18T18:48:00.007-05:00

See updated version:
http://mapleavenuenw.blogspot.com/2011/12/most-beautiful-christmas-tree-on-long.html#links

The Most Beautiful Christmas Tree in Brooklyn and Patchogue

My wife comes from 69th Street in Brooklyn, NY. In the 50s everyone lived a very modest life. The quality of life then, doesn't even come close to the quality of life that most of us now take for granted. We owned only one pair of sneakers, and we extended the usable lifetime of a failing sneaker by inserting cardboard into the bottom of the sneaker to cover a hole. We "had no clue" that we were poor, because everyone around us lived exactly the same way.

Christmas presents were scarce at that time; toys were few, and we usually got something practical instead, such as a pair of underwear! My wife's father sold Christmas trees on 69 th St in order to supplement the family income. A side job such as this does have its perks; my wife always had the biggest and most beautiful Christmas Tree in "all of Brooklyn!"

I inherited the tradition of having the "Biggest and Best Christmas Tree," when I married my wife Marie. Every year we always purchase our Christmas tree at the same place. The employees knew my wife by her first name; why; because they had to lift 47 Christmas Trees for my wife, before she would select a tree. The employees always smiled as they participated in my wife's tree selection ritual; they too could feel her joy and enthusiasm; it was contagious!

Large Christmas Trees did not come without their problems! My living Room has a Nine foot ceiling; in the early days she had a tendency to select a Twelve foot Christmas Tree. So! For many years we had to cut three feet off the top of our Christmas Trees. Yep! Our trees sometimes looked like a Trapazoid! What fond memories!

I will always remember our biggest quest for the most beautiful Christmas Tree! Armed with a Cassette Player and many Christmas Carol Tapes, two adults and three teenagers, piled into a Ford Fairmont mid-sized wagon, and drove to Eastern Long Island, to cut down our own Christmas Tree. We could not find a tree that was big enough so we drove to Upstate New York, in order to find the perfect tree. Our biggest mistake was to cut down a tree that was over eight inches in diameter at its base! The tree was beautiful, but it was also huge! It took three teenagers and two adults to get this tremendous tree on the roof of our small car. The Christmas tree was so big that it offered a tremendous wind load to our car; our gas mileage was severely degraded. I couldn't understand why my small car was using so much Gasoline! With the combined weight of two adults, three teenagers, and one huge tree, the small ford Fairmont wagon was essentially hugging the ground! The tree cost us Twenty Five dollars, and the expenses, and Gasoline required to transport this huge tree back to Patchogue, cost us One Hundred and Fifty dollars.

So we have a Twenty Five dollar Christmas tree that cost us $150. dollars to transport home; a total of $175. !

After 47 years of marriage we have honed and tweaked our Christmas Tree selection process, to the point that is now an "art." This year my wife and I selected our Christmas Tree in only Fifteen minutes! Truly miraculous!

It is an absolute certainty, that if we lived in Brooklyn, NY, we would indeed have the "Best Christmas Tree in Brooklyn." We now live in Patchogue, NY, so.... we now have the "Most Beautiful Christmas Tree, in all of Patchogue, NY!"

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Merry Christmas!!!

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2010-12-14T19:35:00.007-05:00

Cops Who Care

Free Hams and Turkeys to Benefit Needy Families

The New York State Police, the Suffolk County Police and the Urban League of Long Island have partnered for the third annual Cops Who Care food drive.
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250 Hams and 250 Turkeys will be distributed free of charge to needy families.
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One item per family, first come first serve.
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When: Wednesday, December 22, 2010. 1:00PM
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Where: Suffolk County Police Headquarters,
30 Yaphank Ave. Yaphank , NY 11980 .
Exit 67 Long Island Expressway, half-mile south on right.
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For additional information contact Lt. Bob Donohue, (631) 852-6530. donohurob@suffolkcountyny.gov

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2010-11-27T22:40:00.026-05:00

Patchogue, NY

Patchogue Christmas Parade

November 27, 2010

I have attended many Christmas Parades in our home town of Patchogue NY, but this year I have seen an abundance of spirit that I never expected. In spite of the sluggish economy I believe that more people attended our "Christmas Parade 2010," than ever before. People were Fifteen deep along the sidewalk, viewing our parade. I estimate that there could have been Eight thousand people at our parade!

I was very surprised to see so many groups participate in our parade; fire departments, car clubs, small businesses and clubs. I always enjoy the local dance studios that have their students, which are our children and grandchildren, perform their dance routines for all to enjoy! This is very important for all; it is important for the youth and their friends and relatives to come to the realization that these young people have attained a balance in their lifestyle. Trouble starts when our youth identify with less than reputable groups and activities. If we do not provide our children with something to identify with, they will figure out something for themselves.

I always enjoy seeing the Tractors in our parade! Farmers and Tractors bring with them a connotation of what make our country great; "every day people who work hard for a living. There is a lesson to be learned from farmers; you can attain anything if you work hard enough!"

Then we have the Boy Scout, and Girl Scout. It is always inspirational to see our young people involved with activities that build character. A community of youth that have not been directed toward and nurtured by groups that mold character will find it easy to turn down the wrong road

The religious holidays of Christmas and Hanukah try to guide people down the correct path in life. We as a community must make every effort not to dilute that which creates a feeling of family, and a sense of community.

So! Patchogue Christmas Parade 2010 was a smashing success!

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukah!

(Left click the arrow to start video)

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Merry Christmas!

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2010-11-20T22:23:00.015-05:00

Patchogue NY:

Christmas 2010 Has Arrived

Special Events in Patchogue:

November 21, 2010:

Christmas Holiday Boat Parade

Boats will start down Patchogue River, at 6 Pm

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November 27, 2010:

Annual Christmas Parade, Main Street Patchogue, NY

Parade will start at 6 PM

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December 9, 2010

"Best of Christmas" Home and Business Decorating Contest

Prizes of $250., $150., and $100. You must decorate before December 9, 2010. Awards Committee will survey the Greater Patchogue Area for qualifying homes and businesses. Winners will be announced on December 23, 2010 in the Long Island Advanced.

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December 11, 2010

Christmas Tree and Nativity Lighting:

Saint Francis De Sales, South Ocean Avenue, Patchogue 6 PM

(This list will be updated as we get the new information)

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2010-11-13T16:40:00.002-05:00

Patchogue NY

THIRD ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR

Sponsored by the Columbiettes

DATE:
Sunday November 14, 2010

LOCATION:
Patchogue K of C Council 725
38 West First Street
Patchogue, NY
(Off Waverly Avenue)

TIME:
9 am to 3 pm

There will be over 40 vendors selling a wide array of wares. Please come down and support the Columbiettes and the good work that they do.

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2010-10-25T18:03:00.023-04:00

Patchogue Long Island's Christmas Village:

The Christian Community is Determined to

"Keep Christ in Christmas."

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In a letter to hundreds of Knights of Columbus members Philip Butler once again Initiates his "Keep Christ in Christmas" Campaign. In previous years many merchants preferred not to use the actual name of the holiday that is celebrated on Dec. 25, which is " Christmas," but instead use the term "Happy Holiday."

For fear of upsetting the Atheist Community, merchants generally use what is intended to be a more general term for Christmas, which is "Happy Holiday." Unfortunately many from the merchant community, do not understand, that Christians are mandated by Biblical Scripture, not to be ashamed of or conceal the name of their creator. Christians are not allowed to put the name of their sacred holiday, "Christmas," under the rug.

Many feel that the act of re-naming, altering, or substituting something into their religious beliefs is unacceptable.

Religion has been the reason for many wars in the past; remember the Crusades. Do religious people take their religions seriously? Absolutely! Currently 76% of the United States population are part of the Christian Community, and do indeed represent a substantial segment of our population.

I am a firm believer that all Religions share common ground; they all believe in a higher authority. Each and every Religious Group deserves respect and consideration by the other Religious Groups. We must all coexist in an atmosphere of mutual respect.

Wouldn't it be a wonderful Christmas if this issue could be resolved this year!

The following letter was written by Philip Butler, to hundreds of
"Knights of Columbus" Members.

Brother Knights:

The start of the Christmas Season is only a few weeks away so please Remember to support those who support Christmas – and keeping Christ in Christmas.

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A Great Store that does just that right here on Long Island– if you want Christmas trees and gifts it would be well worth the trip to Westbury as it’s a Christmas Wonder Land, check them out at:

(Click products - then Christmas)

http://www.hicksnurseries.com/

E-mail
hicksinfo@hicksnurseries.com

If you want to help make Patchogue Long Island’s Christmas Village, just e-mail me back to get started right now.

Philip Butler
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Christmas Cop of Patchogue

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2010-10-16T23:13:00.008-04:00

Patchogue, NY

NEWS CORP is WRONG CABLEVISION is RIGHT

News Corp has pulled back Fox 5 and My 9, from the Cablevision lineup because they want more money from Cablevision. I usually do not align with Cable vision but in the case of News Corp.; Cablevision is right! Actually "House is the only program worth watching! Why should we pay more for a provider that provides us with what I consider to be, sub standard programming material.

News Corp. is licensed by the FCC to sell Commercials and provide programming over the Air, free of charge, which they are currently doing. Now they want to charge the customer twice, once up front through Cablevision, and then a second time through their commercials. I remember a fellow that did that; he was called Blackbeard the Pirate!

I recommend that the FCC and our politicians reconsider this situation, and act accordingly. This is the worst form of Consumer Abuse; forcing us to pay twice for the same programming.

PLEASE call

1 877 NO TV TAX

You will be able to leave a voice message for News Corp.

You should have heard what I had to say!

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2010-10-11T17:40:00.003-04:00

Important!
It might be a good idea to register?

The Suffolk County Police Department has recently implemented a "CodeRed" Emergency Notification System. This system allows the police department to communicate to subscribers information such as a missing child, a missing Alzheimer's patient, an active shooter event, or other information potentially helpful to subscribers who receive this information. Members of the public will have the ability to register their cell phone numbers and email address to receive emergency notifications. To register, visit www.suffolkpd.org. Click on the Suffolk County Home icon and then click on the "CodeRed" icon and follow the prompts.

Aristides Mojica
Inspector
Commanding Officer
Fifth Precinct

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2010-10-09T21:58:00.006-04:00

Patchogue, NY

Town of Brookhaven

Saturday October 9, 2010

The Sandspit Marina, In Patchogue is Closed!

(This sign, purchased by the Town of Brookhaven with your Tax Money, is used to deny you access to the Great South Bay, after Dusk. Please tell me that this is just an unfortunate mistake, made by a misinformed employee!)

My Saturday evening got off to a wonderful start, my wife and I decided to go out for dinner. After the meal, we decided to go down to the water to enjoy the quiet serenity of one of our most valuable resources, the Great South Bay.

We arrived at the Sandspit Marina at 7:45 PM; to my shock the entrance was barricaded! My wife and I were not allowed to enter the Marina. We were not allowed to go near the water, as we have been doing for over Fifty Years!

Traditionally there have been signs saying that the Facility was officially closed at dusk, but people were allowed to enter the Park. That rule was not strictly enforced! To my horror Two signs saying "PARK CLOSES AT DUSK," were blocking access to the Park.

What are our politicians smoking? They have eyes that cannot see! We the residents of Long Island tolerate the Humidity, and everything else Mother Nature can throw at us, because we enjoy the water!

Who in their infinite wisdom decided to barricade the Sandspit Marina at 7:45 PM. This is unconscionable! Our elected officials preclude us from enjoying a resource that we pay them to manage and protect. If the general populous considered the Sandspit to be a worthless liability, then the facility might best be sold to a developer!

This could not be farther from the truth; The taxpayers of Brookhaven want access to their treasured facility; the Sandspit Marina!

Politicians; get out from behind your varnished Mahogany benches! Get away from your Microphones, STAND ABSOLUTELY QUIET, and take a deep breath! Just think about what you have done!

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2010-09-24T23:37:00.005-04:00

String of Burglaries in Patchogue Perps Arrested
In an earlier email I was a bit concerned about what was reported as a string of burglaries in our village. Finally the good news was published in the Long Island Press; the Burglars were caught.

http://www.longislandpress.com/2010/09/24/patchogue-pair-arrested-for-7-burglaries-in-3-weeks/

There was also a Car break-in, a Home Burglary, and an attempted Home Burglary in our Neighborhood Watch area. The attempted Home burglary was foiled by one of our neighborhood watch member. The burglary in our area could have been part of the crime spree!

Last night a suspicious character was reported looking into cars on Northridge St. A report was called in and the authorities addressed the situation.

A few other neighbors have been voicing concern, but the situation appears to be under control. As a Neighborhood Watch member you must not hesitate to call either 911, or the Patchogue Public Safety at 475 1225; depending on the situation. If we continue to report problems, the problems will stay under control.

Complacency is a disease that triggers the demise of a community! Keep the calls coming to 911 (Police) or 475 1225 (Patchogue Public Safety)

A Prominent Community Figure, who by virtue of his job, is intimately connected with the problems of our area, reports that our crime statistic is just about the same as it has always been. This comes as a relief! Although choosing to remain anonymous, this individual does indeed deserve and command our respect!

Our area is now served by a new part of the Mainstream media, that follows the new model for journalism; disseminating news; that is local to a single area. Patchogue Patch disseminates news exclusive to the Patchogue area.

At first I was upset with "Patchogue Patch," because they published the Police Blotter. I am not an advocate of hanging one's dirty laundry out of a front window; but time and observation has caused me to change my perception of this new publication!

As mentioned earlier in this article, complacency is the real enemy! I now feel that it is important for our community to be aware of new problems!

Please read the latest edition of Patchogue Patch. As published in the "Patch," two other burglars that operated in our area, were also brought to justice.
http://patchogue.patch.com/

The picture is clear; open reporting has increased awareness. It is also evident that our Fifth Precinct has been doing a great job, keeping the criminal element under control. Please click the Long Island Press Link at the top of this page.

I must also stress the importance of "the eyes and ears" of Patchogue Public Safety. I personally feel that we wouldn't be able to live here in Patchogue without the contribution of our Public Safety Officers.

Please read and support Patchogue Patch; a welcome addition to our community.

MANW

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2010-07-10T22:33:00.052-04:00

Patchogue 4th of July 2010 Parade Photos
(Double Left Click any photo to make it larger)
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The parade started at 1:30 PM because the Fourth was on a Sunday this year. Attendance was down because many people had plans to attend family functions.
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The Parade starting time was late this year because of Church services. Wouldn't it have been wonderful if the Priests and Ministers had their members march in the parade in lieu of attending a Mass or Service!
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Emanual Lutheran Church

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Civil Air Patrol

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Lions Club

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Shinnecock Native Americans

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Pyrate Brotherhood

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Patchogue Village Officials

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Patchogue Village Officials

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Fire Departments

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Vintage Fire Truck

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Patchogue Ambulance

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Native American Veteran

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Knights of Columbus

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US Army

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Guardians of the Children

"Guardians of the Children" is an advocacy group charged to prevent all forms of Child abuse through education, support and interaction with various child protective agencies.

Child Abuse Hotline 1 800 252 5400

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Brookhaven Town Float
My favorite Float! I just loved the signs!
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"Salute the Armed Forces,"

"Proud to be an American."

"God Bless America."
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The signs say it all!

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2010-06-28T22:16:00.006-04:00

Patchogue, NY

Fifth Precinct Community Newsletter From:

SCPD.5thPrecinctNewsletter
SCPD.5thPrecinctNewsletter@suffolkcountyny.gov

The following information may be of interest to anybody who has a stake in Corey Beach, Blue Point:

The Fifth Precinct received a report that a subject described as a white male, approximately 60 years old, gray hair, salt and pepper beard, wearing a hat, navy blue shirt, and small round sunglasses; offered a 12 year old a ride to the beach. The vehicle was described as a black suburban. Anyone who observes suspicious activity of the type described above should call 911. Anyone who becomes aware that a family member or friend was or is approached by the above described subject should call the Fifth Precinct.

Aristides Mojica
Inspector Commanding Officer
Fifth Precinct

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2010-06-27T13:39:00.014-04:00

Patchogue, NY, Mascot Dock

Unexpected Social Encounter on Mascot Dock in Patchogue

My wife and I often go to Mascot Dock, at the end of South Ocean Avenue, in Patchogue, just to relax and enjoy the beautiful view. A few weeks ago on one of our normal visits to Mascot Dock, we were unable to get a parking space; the entire dock parking area was filled with cars, but not one person was on the Dock! It appears that Mascot Dock may have been used as a parking lot for a local establishment.

As I have been told, the Village of Patchogue has taken some action to remedy this situation. On Saturday night June 26, 2010 my wife and I visited Mascot Dock to see if the Parking problem had been solved. As we drove onto the dock, the parking situation seemed to have been corrected.

Instead of just sitting in my car, my wife and I decided to stroll down Mascot Dock, just to see if Patchogue residents were actually enjoying the facility that they pay taxes to support.

We started to talk to a family, who had a handsome clean cut, articulate teenage son. The entire family were catching crabs. They were hoping that the real big crabs would be available in a few weeks. They were just delightful to talk to!

We then walked past four Patchogue Residents who brought their own folding chairs, and were enjoying the beautiful evening. One of the women looked at us and said Hello! Wow! "I was surprised because people in New York generally don't say hello to strangers!" We then started to chat with the Four Patchogue residents.

We walked further down the dock and met a Delightful young couple who were "Crabbing," using a "Crab Trap." We talked about cooking crabs in a Frying Pan using Beer!

We then started to talk with a women who appeared to be visually impaired. The women was with her daughter who was about Ten Years old going on 30; she was a delightful young lady! We talked with them for about Twenty Minutes.

I was surprised that we had spent over an hour, socializing with our neighbors. I could think of no better way to end a busy Saturday, than with an unexpected social encounter, on Mascot Dock!

This unexpected encounter with the International community in Patchogue only supports what I have been saying for years; we are a community that lives in harmony with each other.

Note From the Webmaster:

An anonymous reader perceived a part of the above article as Racist. Following our policy of "endeavoring to create a sense of community, the text was removed.

I would like to thank the anonymous reader for his comment, and welcome any other constructive comment.

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2010-06-10T19:03:00.006-04:00

THE PATCHOGUE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS # 725

TOGETHER WITH

ST. SYLVESTER'S COUNCIL # 6844

PRESENT :
DOO-WOP SATURDAY NIGHT FEATURING THE
SOUNDS OF :

"SOMEWHERE IN TIME"

SO GIRLS, GRAB THAT POODLE SKIRT, GUYS SLICK YOUR HAIR BACK (WHAT'S LEFT) AND COME JOIN US FOR AN EVENING OF FUN, FOOD MEMORIES AND MUSIC

SATURDAY NIGHT JUNE 19TH, 7 -11 PM, $30 P.P.

THE PATCHOGUE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL
38 WEST 1ST STREET PATCHOGUE (OFF WAVERLY AVE)

COMPLETE ROAST BEEF DINNER W/BEER ,WINE & SODA
FOR TICKETS CALL MIKE BOEHM AT 774-2605

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2010-05-31T16:38:00.015-04:00

Patchogue Memorial Day Parade Photos:

Patchogue Ambulance:
Our Patchogue Ambulance group will help you in your time of need and treat you as family, free of charge! What more could you ask for?

North Patchogue Fire Department.

South Ocean Avenue Middle School Band:
(Left click the arrow to start video)

It is so wonderful to see our young people doing such wonderful things! Their parents should be very proud.

Our Patchogue volunteers are heroic on a daily basis!

There's something very poetic and patriotic about flying a flag on a tractor!
We must not forget our roots! In 1920 Patchogue was mostly farmland. My house was occupied by Thomas Bush, the Patchogue Blacksmith; he had his shop on Terry Street.

My grandparents were farmers in Italy. Many of the residents in our town bring with them a similar background.

We must look at where we are today, and give thanks to the many people who made our current lifestyle possible. Our veterans who are also family are on the top of the list! Getting back to basics, our roots define us as home town people, in a family oriented community!

Patchogue Code:
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An official presence keeps our village under control
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2010-05-28T18:51:00.013-04:00

The source of the following information is the Suffolk County Police Department's newsletter
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PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: Did you know the Suffolk County Police Department has a Special Needs/Silver Alert Registry that enables parents, guardians, relatives or other caregivers to register important information surrounding persons with special needs in a Police Department database? The intent of this program is to furnish police officers with information to aid them in appropriately responding to and assisting persons with special needs. The Silver Alert/Special Needs Program consists of two components:
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Special Needs Alert
The Special Needs Alert is appropriate for persons with the following:
-Severe mental illness
-Autism
-Developmental disabilities
Note: This registry may also be utilized to provide emergency contact information for relatives or caregivers to elderly person(s) who live alone.
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Silver Alert
The Silver Alert program is appropriate for persons with the following:
-Alzheimer’s Disease
-Dementia
-Cognitive disorders that may result in a persons wandering or becoming disorientated and lost
Persons registering for the Silver Alert Program can request a Silver Alert bracelet be mailed to them, free of charge. This bracelet contains a distinctive number and instructions that first responders may use to contact the Suffolk County Police Department to obtain information regarding a person with special needs, which may be extremely helpful should that person become disorientated and lost. A photo of that person should also be submitted with the registry form.
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Register:
To register for the Program, kindly fill out a Special Needs/Silver Alert Registry Form by clicking on the Amber Alert/Silver Alert icon at www.suffolkpd.org, or call (631) 852-6983.
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Police/Community Meetings:
Please join us each month at one of the following community meetings to discuss issues facing your community (all meetings are held at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted):
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5th Precinct.125 Waverly Avenue, Patchogue. (631) 854-8500. Serving the Towns of Brookhaven (South) and Islip (East), and the Villages of Patchogue and Bellport. Next meetings: June 1 and July 6.
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Aristides Mojica
Inspector
Commanding Officer
Fifth Precinct

2010-05-11T19:00:00.003-04:00

The following information was made available via the Suffolk County Police Department newsletter:

SUFFOLK COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWSLETTER
SPECIAL ALERT: FICTITIOUS EMAILS

Members of the public are advised that there are a series of fictitious emails circulating nationwide regarding gang activity and initiations. The emails have identified various communities throughout the country, and most recently they were circulated on Long Island with the following fictitious scenarios:

First Fictitious Scenario: A female gang member is said to leave a baby carriage unattended on the side of a roadway with an infant within. When female motorists stop to assist the baby, male members of the gang attack the motorist and assault the female.

Second Fictitious Scenario: Gang members are said to throw eggs at car windshields. When motorists stop to clean their windshields, gang members are said to assault them. The Suffolk County Police Department has not been notified of any actual incidents of this or a similar nature occurring within the Police District. Members of the public are further advised that multi-agency, anti-crime and anti-gang initiatives, involving the use of both uniformed and plainclothes personnel are continuing, as are saturation enforcement initiatives involving uniformed personnel.*

Although these emails are believed to be without merit, the Suffolk County Police
Department offers the following general safety tips for your consideration:

-When driving, keep your doors locked and windows closed.
-Always travel with a cell phone.
-Don’t stop at isolated pay phones or cash machines.
-Plan your driving route in advance, and be sure your car is in good mechanical condition with sufficient fuel to arrive at your destination.*

-If you must stop because your vehicle becomes disabled, or if someone tries to alert you to a problem with your vehicle, attempt to stop only in a well-lighted area in a public place. If you need assistance, activate your flashers and dial “911” immediately. If it is safe to do so, remain in your vehicle and keep your doors and windows locked.

-When parking at night, be sure to park in well lighted areas. Park as close to your destination as possible and take notice of where you parked.

-Be sure to locate your keys prior to returning to your car.
-When approaching and leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings. Do not approach your car if there are suspicious people or vehicles in the area. Always check around your vehicle, making sure there is no one hiding beside or within your vehicle.

Remember, if you are at all suspicious when driving or parking, stay in your car if it is safe to do so and attempt to safely drive away from the area. Drive to somewhere it is safe to stop, such as a populated public place or a police station, and dial “911” immediately.

You as members of the public are the Police Department’s greatest resource against preventing crime. Report suspicious activity to (631)852-COPS (2677), and in an emergency, or when urgent help is needed, dial “911” immediately.* To provide “tips” regarding drug dealers or prior crimes, dial 1-800-220-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by texting the tip to “SCPD” and the message to “CRIMES” (274637). Rewards may be available.* For Non-Emergency Police Response, please dial (631) 852-COPS (2677).

Visit us online at www.suffolkpd.org

Aristides Mojica

Inspector
Commanding Officer
Fifth Precinct

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2010-05-08T11:55:00.004-04:00

Tuesday, May 04, 2010

Socially Acceptable Graffiti
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On April 22, 2009 I wrote an article about Graffiti in Patchogue. You might want to re-visit that piece after reading the rest of this article.
(Left click the link below)
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http://mapleavenuenw.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-04-29T20%3A27%3A00-04%3A00&max-results=6
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Last week I took a trip to Hawaii. I was amazed to see that Graffiti was everywhere; that is, wherever there is Black Lava Rock. Patchogue has had a problem with Graffiti in the past; Hawaii's solution to unwanted Graffiti is almost poetic!
(The photos were taken on the "Big Island," which is also called Hawaii.)

The texture of the Graffiti appeared to be different! A casual inspection revealed that no Spray Paint was used. I then pulled my car off the road and walked near the Lava Field to inspect the Graffiti "up close."

I was totally amazed to find that the Graffiti was "eco-sensitive; no spray paint was used and nothing was destroyed by the process of creating the art-work! Wow! For the first time in my life I felt a warm feeling of acceptance, as I examined the many masterpieces!

Everyone had a message to convey to the public; that is to anyone who drove by. From a public proclamation of love to a memoriam, all of the drawings had something in common; they were drawn with White Coral Rocks!

On a Black Lava background, white Coral stones were arranged to create the text images. The beauty of the Graffiti is that absolutely nothing was destroyed! Old messages were scattered by the rain, and the wind; and then the next artist would recycle the stones to create his own personal message!

The artists, could have easily used colored paint on the Black Lava Rock, which would have forever destroyed it's appearance; but they didn't! I did not see even one instance of paint being used to deface the beautiful Lava Rock.

My wife and I agreed, that the Graffiti was indeed socially acceptable, because property was not destroyed, and the rock arrangements would eventually revert back to their natural state.
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Unfortunately I did not have time to make myself immortal by creating my own rock arrangement! Wow! We should dump a load of Black and White Rocks in our own Shorefront Park, and see what happens! We in Patchogue might also get a poetic solution to Graffiti.

MANW

(DOUBLE LEFT CLICK ANY IMAGE TO MAKE IT LARGER)

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2010-05-02T19:13:00.007-04:00

Friday April 30, 2010

Loud Music in a Patchogue Residential Area

Is being forced to listen to a loud Band playing on Main Street Patchogue, part of the "Community revitalization process?"
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This past Friday, the sound emanating from a Night Club on Main Street, projected through our residential area, most of the night. One hundred people in a Restaurant/Bar apparently took precedence over one thousand Patchogue residents, who are forced to listen to loud music at 11:30 PM.
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The drummer in the Band was predominately responsible for the disturbance. I could hear only the drummer! The low pitched "Thud," projected more than five blocks into our residential area. Wow! That's more than a quarter of a mile!
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I shouldn't have used the word disturbance; the drummer was actually a "World Class Drummer." Coming from a strong musical environment, I would not hesitate to hire this drummer, if he didn't play so loud. Wow! I thought that the drummer in my Band was loud! This guy brought new meaning to the phrase "Loud Drummer."
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In an attempt to locate the source of the music, I drove around and came upon the source of the loud music in a Night Club on Main Street. The front door was wide open. The open door was the real source of the problem. I did suggest to the Patchogue Village Code that the Night Club owner be told to close the front Door. On Saturday night, I only heard the drummer intermittently, possibly when the front door was opened.
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Loud music has and is an ongoing problem in our village. It might be a good idea to investigate using Sound Shields in these restaurants; they actually work.
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See Link Below:
http://www.nextag.com/DrumOne-Shield-Two-Drum-623668880/prices-html
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I believe that there is still hope for the Night Club industry and the local residents of Patchogue to co-exist, if the club owners, would pay attention to details like buying "Sound Shields," and closing the front Door.
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MANW

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2010-04-07T19:46:00.009-04:00

Crime Report

I attended the Fifth Precinct community meeting on April Sixth, 2010, just to find out what is going on in our village. Other than cars and motorcycles , speeding down Maple Avenue; criminal activity, in Patchogue, has been quiet.

Inspector Mojica did state that Petty Larceny of cars has been a problem. Residents were advised to lock their cars at night; and refrain from leaving valuables in plain sight.

The representative from East Patchogue was concerned about the possibility that the Police presence in his town, would be lessened because of the Gang activity in some western towns.

In general we are enjoying a crime rate that is 80% below the national average. Please don't hesitate to contact the Fifth Precinct and or our local Patchogue Village Government, with your neighborhood problems:

SCPD.5THPRECINCT@suffolkcountyny.gov

Village Problems: 475 1225

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2010-03-07T20:02:00.004-05:00

ABC Verses Cablevision! Who is right?

ABC is not a Cable TV content provider by charter. Via an FCC license, ABC is mandated to provide free public programming over the Air Waves. ABC has absolutely no authority to charge a fee for viewing it's content; however they are authorized by the FCC to run commercials.

A Cable TV content provider such as the Discovery Channel, has no authority to transmit their programming over the air waves, they are paid by Cablevision to carry their content. Cablevision usually runs commercials, or sells subscriptions, to pay for the fee charged by the content providers.

A few years ago a law suit resulted in Cablevision paying the networks some money to keep them quiet. Now ABC wants every Cablevision viewer to pay them one dollar every month, weather they look at ABC or not! My parents told me "if you let them take an inch, they will take a yard!" No truer words were ever said!

So it appears that ABC is already getting paid twice, for the programming that they are supposed to be providing for free. They now want even more money!

Direct FCC and Public Service Commission intervention is needed. This is not the "good old days;" technology has advanced!" Data and information should be considered as a utility, and be subject to controls and regulations.

I am not a big fan of Cablevision, but in this case I believe that Cablevision is right; I will not switch providers.

What is your opinion?

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2010-03-03T23:39:00.006-05:00

Amazing Facts About Patchogue!
I re-visited a web site that I had previously used to gather statistical data; my last visit revealed many upgrades to that site. The Web Site has always been reasonably comprehensive; but now it fits into the "World Class" category! You might want to visit

http://www.clrsearch.com/RSS/Demographics/NY/Patchogue/

It is this last category that got my attention!

Crime in Patchogue.
The programmers that designed the "Crime Database," calculated a number which they call the "Total Crime Index." This number represents the probability that you will be the victim of a crime. This number does not represent any particular crime, but an average of all crime. Keep in mind that the number 100 represents the national average crime rate. So! The number 100 represents the crime rate, that would be normal, for most cities in the United States.

Looking at the percentages below, the towns of Bellport and Westbury, are in the Disneyland category! Crime? What is that? These towns have a crime rate of 1 and 2 percent of the national average, respectively. The numbers are amazing!

The town of Patchogue has a Crime Rate that is 80% below the national average! Take a look at some of the listings at the bottom of the list! Atlantic City, has a crime rate which is three hundred and Thirty Eight percent greater than the national average.

Look at the towns that are placed directly below Patchogue; this data is utterly amazing! I have repeatedly published articles, proclaiming that Patchogue is not a God forsaken crime ridden area, and it is not! I have also stated that the residents of Patchogue interact as family, and not as adversaries, and indeed they do! Now I have the data to back-up my statements!

(Please examine the data below)
CRIME RISK
Bellport 1
Westbury 2
Glen Cove 22
Stony Brook 22
Sayville 23
Patchogue 23
Blue Point 27
Westhampton 29
Huntington 31
Shirley 34
Mastic Beach 36
Bayport 36
Farmingville 40
Port Jefferson 43
Freeport 50
Greenport 52
East Patchogue 67
Yonkers 69
National Average = 100%
Brooklyn 114
Orlando 126
Las Angeles 174
Fort Lauderdale 239
Chicago 240
Las Vegas 284
Atlantic City 438

We should take up a collection to send the next "Patchogue bashing" journalist, to a therapist, to treat his or her case of "Writers Block."

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2010-02-26T17:25:00.007-05:00

Mastic Beach may Incorporate
Residents of Mastic Beach are looking at Patchogue Village, as a role model, and are also trying to follow in the foot-steps of our monumental success story. A channel twelve editorial seemed to express the opinion that incorporation for Mastic Beach only means Bigger Government! The editorial is completely wrong, and exemplifies lazy journalism. It is a lot easier to sit at your computer for an hour and just put a few words on paper, than to actually hit the road and get the facts!

We the members of the Maple Avenue Neighborhood Watch, together with the incorporated village of Patchogue, were part of that monumental transition, from a crime ridden slum to a world class community. No doubt about it; this transition would not have been possible, without the incorporated village of Patchogue.

The formula for re-vitalizing a community is complex, and must take into account, the opposing forces, that tug at each other in an attempt to bolster their own private agendas. The Patchogue Village Code Officers, along with the village Housing and Highway Departments are unilaterally responsible for the lovely appearance of our village.

Keep in mind that the landlords that do not live in the houses that they own, may at first, be on the opposing side! In the case of Patchogue village, the value of our homes increased by over 30% as the neighborhood improved. Today most of the landlords see the wisdom of maintaining the appearance of the neighborhood that contains their investment. This amazing transition would not have been possible without the dedication of our current slate of Patchogue Village officials.

Rehabilitation of a community requires the constant cooperation of many agencies. All agencies such as, the Neighborhood Watch, the Patchogue village Code, the Police Department, and local government, must work together in concert. If any single link in this chain is broken, the rehabilitation may fail! All of the above groups are absolutely required to bring back a community.

Kudos to the municipality of Mastic Beach; don’t let anyone talk you out of your new village, and your new community!

Maple Avenue Neighborhood Watch

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2009-12-11T22:26:00.019-05:00

The Nativity Scene is no longer at it's former location, on Main Street Patchogue, NY
The Nativity Scene was set-up in front of Saint Francis DeSales, on South Ocean Avenue, in Patchogue. As I have been told, the Nativity Scene was moved so that it would be in a more appropriate location. Unfortunately I missed the tree and Nativity lighting on December 14, 2009. Maybe next year! I personally feel that the Nativity Scene should be on Main Street, simply because of the high visibility location.
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Nativity Scene at the location of Emanuel Lutheran Church
Thanks to Emanuel Lutheran Church, Main Street, Patchogue, NY, we do have a Nativity Scene on Main Street, but not in the prime location, near the Patchogue Theatre.

To our Christian friends, let us say:
Merry Christmas

To our Jewish friends let us say:
Happy Hanukkah

To our friends in the Black Community, that have helped this Neighborhood Watch Group in numerous way, let us say:
Happy Kwanzaa

Why do we not have a similar sign in Patchogue?

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2009-12-03T22:52:00.003-05:00

Report Crime via email to the 5TH Precinct in Patchogue.

On Tuesday December 1, 2009, I attended the “monthly open community meeting,” at the Suffolk County Police Department, Fifth Precinct, on Waverly Avenue, in Patchogue. Inspector Mojica reported that there are no major chronic crime problems in the Fifth Precinct. The Inspector did say that we do experience crime, but at a rate that would be normal for the average community.

Inspector Mojica reported that a few instances of burglary have occurred in East Patchogue, but because of reporting by the average citizen, the burglars were arrested.

The commanding officer told the people that attended the meeting that most of the criminals in the fifth Precinct, are brought to justice, because of “tips” from local residents.

We were advised to report neighborhood problems via email to:

SCPD.5THPRECINCT@suffolkcountyny.gov

Please forward this email address to your friends and family!

I am sure that these community meetings at the Fifth Precinct have had a positive effect on our area. Local residents have come to realize that their concerns have indeed been addressed by the police department.

The residents that attended the monthly community meetings in the past spoke with a sense of urgency. Obviously many of the urgent problems have already been addressed. This last community meeting took on a more casual persona.

Please address your neighborhood concerns to Inspector Aristides Mojica, and send them to the email address above. It is so wonderful to know that you have a friend at the Fifth Precinct!

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2009-11-23T23:37:00.007-05:00

The Plaza Theatre May Not See the Bulldozer!
Patchogue, NY
The dilapidated remains of the once majestic Plaza Theatre stands as an eyesore on the Montauk Highway, which is the Eastern Gateway to Patchogue. While many are contemplating the demolition of this Plaza Theatre, some are considering the possibility of rebuilding.
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On November 23, 2009, I received an email from the Patchogue Arts Council, advising me of a presentation by Campbell Dalglish, who is a founding member of the Patchogue Arts Council. This presentation was given at the Patchogue Village Hall, during the regular monthly Patchogue Village Board Meeting.
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Mr. Delglish made a presentation to the people of Patchogue, informing them that a movement was in motion to save the Plaza Theatre, and turn it into an Arts Film Theatre, a Media Arts Center, and Media Arts laboratory complex.
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The Theatre would be divided into three rooms, each having 75 seats. These rooms would be used for business multimedia presentations; and also to show “Art type films.” Art films are specialty films that would not normally be shown at a Multiplex Theatre. Art films are generally viewed by intellectual people.
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The Media Arts Center would be used as a classroom, to educate and serve the teachers and students of our local schools. The Media Arts Laboratory would contain, state of the art film editing equipment that is generally too expensive for the amateur film maker to have in his living room.
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I originally went to Mr. Campbell’s presentation fearing that this proposed complex could interfere with our Patchogue Theatre. Our Patchogue Theatre has turned out to be a panacea for Patchogue Village; the last thing that we need is two theaters that are within blocks of each other.
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This proposal is being evaluated by the town and county government; Patchogue Village does not have anything to do with approval or rejection of the proposed complex. The presentation was made to the Patchogue Village government, and residents, as a courtesy.
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After listening to the presentation, the entire audience gave Campbell a round of applause, conveying their approval of his proposal. I too believe that this is a worthwhile endeavor that will benefit Patchogue Village!

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2009-11-15T12:01:00.021-05:00

OUR PATCHOGUE FIRE DEPARTMENT VOLUNTEERS

I received a phone call from a friend of mine, inviting my wife and I to attend a Lions Club Breakfast, at the Patchogue Fire Department, on Jennings Avenue. The "Breakfast" was held in the Hall, which is located on the second floor of the Patchogue Fire Department.

As I casually glanced toward the window, I saw a small group of people reacting to something that was going on outside. My curiosity got the best of me and I too was compelled to see what was going on! When I looked outside I saw the members of the Patchogue Fire Department, practicing and honing their skill at extricating a person who has been trapped in a vehicle, during a car crash.

I have seen this type of operation a few times on TV, but from my vantage point on the second floor of the Fire Department, unexpectedly looked upon this exercises in a different light. I did not see a sterile TV screen, but instead I saw my neighbors, freely giving their time, practicing a skill that would indeed be used to help people that get involved in serious car crashes. What I saw was a group of men that have demonstrated that they "give a damn" for someone else other than themselves! These firemen were "putting their money where their mouth is;" while I was eating breakfast, they were all working on our behalf, without pay!

The training session went as follows:
The hydraulic jaws are inserted into the seam of a car door. As you can see the door is already starting to separate from the car.
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(Click on the image to get a larger photo)

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In this photo the jaws have forced the door to a point where it is just about ready to fall off of the car.
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(Click on the image to get a larger photo)

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Finally the front and rear windows have been cut straight across, to allow the car roof to separate from the car. The fireman are about to lift the car roof up, and fold it over toward the trunk; this will allow removal of a trapped person.
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(Click on the image to get a larger photo)

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This is a video of a part of this operation.
(Left click the arrow below to start the video.)
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We, as residents of Patchogue, should also "put our money where our mouth is" and support our local Fireman and Ambulance Company. The next time you see the Patchogue Fire Department, selling Christmas Trees or Easter plants, it might be a good idea to lend them a helping hand, by extending your support!

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Reader Comment:

As a proud member of the Patchogue Fire Department I thank you for bringing what we do to the public's attention.... But to be totally correct, as soon as the Patchogue Fire Department opens up the car with their heavy tools, the extrication of the patient and all patient care becomes the responsibility of the men and women of the Patchogue Ambulance Company. While our 2 agencies work together to insure the public's safety, the Patchogue Ambulance Company rarely receives any credit in the media for the job these dedicated folks do. The Patchogue Ambulance Company responds to 2400 calls a year, its members are trained as EMT's and Paramedics and save countless lives in our proud 75 year history!
Folks in Patchogue should rightfully be proud of both of these fine agencies.

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Webmaster Comment:
I totally agree with you, the Patchogue Ambulance Company does indeed deserve credit for the needed service that they provide. My wife required the services of the Ambulance Company last year.

To this day I am still impressed at the concern and professionalism displayed by the EMTs and Paramedics from the Patchogue Ambulance Company. I can distinctly recall the feeling that I had as they entered my house; they presented themselves as friends and neighbors! My wife's healing began even before she was taken out of my house on a stretcher! A female EMT spoke just a few magic words to my wife; she said Mrs. ..... you have such a lovely home! After that my wife displayed a sense of relief, knowing that she was not in the hands of some entity, but in the hands of concerned "neighbors and friends."

Please contact davispark2000-manw@yahoo.com
we must give them the credit that they deserve; send photos and text.

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2009-10-04T11:09:00.008-04:00

Stickball Reunion in Brooklyn
Anyone who was raised in Brooklyn New York is familiar with the non-Olympic sport called Stickball. Similar to Baseball, a broomstick is used for the bat and a soft rubber ball is used instead of a hardball. The street is used as a substitute for a Baseball Diamond. The utility sewer covers were used as Home Plate, and Second base. Two automobiles that happened to be parked in the right place were used as First and Third Base.
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A group of X Brooklynites have been returning to the location of their youth to share in a good old fashioned game of Stickball!
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Please read the wonderful article That was written by Dennis Hamill, and Published in the New York Daily News.
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(Please left click the link below)

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/brooklyn/2009/09/29/2009-09-29_old_and_new_collide_for_a_tale_of_two_brooklyns.html

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Comments? It is OK to publish your first name!?
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2009-09-20T18:45:00.016-04:00

FIGHTING HATE CRIME ABUSE WITH MORE ABUSE
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A Google search of the phrase "hate crime Patchogue," revealed that 17,000 articles were written, mostly by Ethnic Groups, condemning our home town. Most of these articles did not produce constructive suggestions, but instead just attacked our municipality.
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We will never have peace and harmony until we stop the literary attacks! Instead of setting goals and working toward a solution, many ethnic groups just regurgitate and distribute old news, which has the effect of repeatedly inflicting pain on people from both sides of an issue. Ethnic groups, through their Blogs, repeatedly attack the innocent residents of Patchogue, New York, a municipality in which a hate crime occurred.
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I stand beside myself in disbelief; educated people who write these Blogs, continually try to control a Bee Hive with a Baseball Bat, instead of Honey! Instead of putting their effort into joining forces with the silent majority, they continue to attack these innocent people, that had nothing to do with with the terrible Hate Crime.
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The bottom one percent of any civilization houses the criminal element. Unlike the community minded majority, the criminal minority operates above the law; so what is the purpose of chastising the silent majority? We have had one catastrophic murder in our town, which could have happened anywhere! The silent majority also detests this murder.
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The ethnic groups and the silent majority should actually be on the same side, but assaults from the ethnic groups continue; to the tune of 17,000 literary attacks. These assaults are not directed toward the criminals, but toward the descent residents of Patchogue. The criminals are given a "Free Pass."
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The media must realize that their attacks against innocent people have the effect of creating more animosity, which will ultimately beget more violence! When will it all end?
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The bloggers refuse to, and are not willing to even entertain the possibility, that the residents of Patchogue, NY, actually live in harmony. The truth is that the Black, White, and Hispanic communities, of Patchogue, do indeed live in harmony.
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What does it take to make people that write articles with tainted information, realize that "Camelot" is alive and well in Patchogue! The residents and politicians of Patchogue, comprised of, whites, Blacks, Hispanics, Italian, Irish, and many other ethnic groups, have together transformed our town from a crime ridden wasteland, into a vibrant community. We have also been successful in maintaining our vibrant village.
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I am saddened to see that the media has and continues to mindlessly attack Patchogue. This is the same as allowing a bulldozer to bury an archaeological site, instead of studying the evidence for the benefit of all!
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Hate Crime is the epitome of abuse; literary assault through Blogs, is also a form of abuse! So fighting abuse with more abuse is absolutely absurd!
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2009-09-19T21:46:00.007-04:00

Flash of light seen off of Long Island
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Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, 8:00 PM
A flash of light and smoke was seen over the water at both Jones Beach, and Smith Point. Reports were coming in to the Police Department, who dispatched watercraft to investigate the incident.

The Coast Guard was also dispatched to investigate the suspicious illumination that was visible over the ocean.

About twenty minutes after the Illumination and smoke filled the sky, the police department was advised that the strange phenomenon was actually caused by a National Weather Service Missile!

"Yeah right!" "Tell me another one!"
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