Advertise With Us Festivals & Events emailed to your inbox every Friday Frigid temperatures over the past week have caused several bodies of water across Long Island to freeze some visitors took to the ice for iceboating on the lake Greater Long Island stopped by the lake Note: The Town advises against venturing onto the ice Tap here to see what’s happening 2025 at 8:00 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Arson Squad detectives are investigating a fire that broke out at a Lake Ronkonkoma home on Tuesday afternoon NY — Arson Squad detectives are investigating a fire that broke out at a Lake Ronkonkoma home on Tuesday afternoon It started at the East Lake Terrace home at around 3:40 p.m. All of the residents were able to get outside of the house to safety Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. It’s been so long since Long Island waters froze solid enough to race ice boats Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat and Yacht Club vice commodore Peter Truesdell explained his role this way “My job is to put on a regatta once a year,” he said While serious ice boat enthusiasts travel all over the country to find solid ice to race on Long Island has experienced a decade-long ice drought A four-man LRIBYC team spent all day Friday testing the ice on Lake Ronkonkoma — drilling holes through in different places and measuring its thickness for safety as well as canvassing the massive body of water for any other trouble spots which — when discovered — were marked off with hazard flags organizers put the word out late Friday: the races would take place Saturday morning as racers pieced together their boats and strung up their sails Ice boat captains waited for hours until the wind kicked up to about 10 m.p.h. and finally took flight across the ice in the afternoon LRIBYC commodore Scott Valentine said patience is just part of the sport “I’ve gone to world championships where we’ve had to sit in a hotel for a couple days because of no wind or temperature — if it’s too cold which cracked the ice in places on the lake “They were very comprehensive on testing the ice,” East Marion racer Rich Clark said of the Lake Ronkonkoma team “But ice will crack like that when the sun comes out … It makes you a little nervous when you first hear it but basically nothing happens — it’s just the sound of the crack and it happened a couple of times during the races on Saturday.” East Marion racing veteran Mike Acebo said the ice drought made last weekend a big deal for dedicated sailors “Long Island boaters have waited for 10 years now and we waited probably another five years before that So it’s just getting to be a rare thing to have ice on Long Island We’ve almost all given up hope of having ice on Long Island we’ve been offered a chance to sail on Long Island The dearth of freezing weather in the region has gone on so long that it’s driven some iceboating enthusiasts to resort to light-hearted Acebo told The Suffolk Times last year of annual efforts to “seed” local waters with ice to induce freezing “Usually it would happen at the [winter] solstice They would get together and they wear stupid hats and fur coats and hockey sticks and they’d throw ice in [the bay].” He said the LRIBYC — as well as his local Orient Ice Yacht Club — has been performing the ceremony for years during iceboating droughts “Every year they would have a blessing of the lake and a ‘seeding of the ice.’ That’s what they called it but they were seeding the lake to get it to form ice.”  They wielded hockey sticks and swept piles of machine-made ice into the bay hoping to induce Mother Nature into a deep freeze set it on fire and sent it out into the bay. For whatever reason their patient prayers were finally answered this month A similar ceremony unfolded on the shore of Lake Ronkonkoma before Saturday’s race Valentine won all three DN races on Saturday a popular class of ice boats first developed in Detroit Mich He captained a brand-new DN he’d gotten after an accident in the year prior “Last year at the North American championships a guy totaled my boat during the race,” he said and he came up on my blind side and hit my boat Though racing boats can cost thousands of dollars to build the competitor graciously gave him a new boat free of charge “Proper ice boat etiquette dictates that if you do something wrong so he said he’d build me an exact copy of his boat The thirst to race across the frozen bays dates back centuries on the North Fork the farmers had nothing to do in the winter,” he said “What were you going to do when your fields were covered with snow stern-steer iceboats … every farmer had an iceboat in the ceiling of his barn.” local iceboaters still yearn for their next race and there’s a nice breeze and you pull the sail tight And the speed goes faster and faster and faster and you think you’re doing 100 miles an hour when you’re doing 45.  it’s just the most incredible feeling you can have I’ve flown gliders … I rode a motorcycle across the country,” Mr “This is the most exhilarating thing that I’ve ever done.”  This week, Mr. Valentine and Mr. Truesdale are heading to the ice boat world championships, which are set to begin next week and move around the country based on what location has the best ice. Organizers are eyeing Wisconsin, specifically Lakes Winnebago and Monona, according to the DN North America website We’re sailing with the best of the best in the sailing world: America’s Cup people A kaleidoscope of spring colors — periwinkle foxglove Leon Maurice Creighton of Greenport Village died Monday With the birth of river otter pups at the Long Island Aquarium and possible sightings of otters at Marion Pond in.. A Lake Ronkonkoma mother is pleading for support from the community after her 14-year-old daughter “I never imagined something like this could happen to my family,” Angelina Olivia Grosso wrote in a GoFundMe post She has this infectious energy that lights up every room she enters This has been a tough blow for all of us.” Grosso explained that she set up a GoFundMe campaign in hopes that donations would help cover essential household expenses and allow her to stay by her child’s side throughout her treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) Nevaeh’s health had been declining since the New Year began 27 that doctors delivered the devastating news: a blood test revealed she had AML leukemia we got the call that shattered our world,” Grosso recalled “Her bloodwork came back with alarming results I just can’t believe how quickly things have changed.” continues to show “incredible strength,” her mother said It’s honestly awe-inspiring to see her resilience,” Grosso said Grosso noted that at work she has exhausted her Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) time after the birth of her son last year but I need to be with Nevaeh while she goes through this,” she wrote and I’m unsure what this means for my job.” The community has responded to the mother’s plea for help giving $7,200 to the GoFundMe campaign through 98 donations will help us cover essential bills like rent and food as we try to navigate this crisis,” Grosso said “I’m overwhelmed by the support we’ve already received “I’m holding on to hope for my daughter’s recovery and I’m praying that we can get through this with the help of our family Anyone wishing to support Nevaeh can click here or tap below to make a donation through her mom’s GoFundMe page 2025 at 3:30 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A man was shot at with what detectives believe is a BB gun in a road rage incident on the Long Island Expressway in Lake Ronkonkoma on Thursday morning NY — A man was shot at with what detectives believe is a BB gun in a road rage incident on the Long Island Expressway in Lake Ronkonkoma on Thursday morning A man was driving a 2018 Chevrolet pickup eastbound on the Long Island Expressway at around 8:40 a.m. a male in a Honda Civic with tinted windows fired what detectives believe to be a BB gun into the rear driver’s side window of the Chevrolet The 4th Squad in Smithtown is investigating Detectives are asking anyone who may have seen the incident to call them at 631-854-8452 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. She wrote and directed the movie "The Lady of the Lake." Credit: Elizabeth Sagarin Filmmaker Maria Capp fondly recalls spending summers swimming at Lake Ronkonkoma and ice skating in the winter there as a young girl “The lake was always the center of our recreation,” she said But the 243-acre lake — the largest on Long Island — has a darker history as well: Since the late 1700s it is believed that more than 100 people have drowned there Many area residents grew up hearing the legend of an Indigenous princess who forbidden by her father from being with the man she loved her spirit returns to take the life of a young man as she seeks her lost love “The Lady of the Lake,” which is available on several streaming services Capp is bringing new attention to the old legend is a coming-of-age story about a modern family coping with the loss of a young man who drowned in the lake The cast features several Indigenous and LGBTQIA+-identifying actors It's led by Seth Gilliam of the former TV series “The Walking Dead” as the grieving father and Nia Sioux of Lifetime’s “Dance Moms” as his daughter Del Zamora (“True Blood”) plays the grandfather a member of the Shinnecock Nation making her film debut known for his work in “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” has a major role but to say much more would be a serious spoiler From breaking news to special features and documentaries the NewsdayTV team is covering the issues that matter to you By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy Capp said she consulted with local Indigenous experts in an effort to represent the culture accurately “I didn’t want to take advantage of stereotypes.” actors Seth Gilliam and Leif Easterson in "The Lady of the Lake." Credit: Vision Films an actor and comedian who grew up in Lake Ronkonkoma and plays a volunteer firefighter in the film said he learned about the legend as a young boy but we embrace it as our history,” said Roach who still lives in the hamlet when he’s not on the road noting the sudden drop-offs that make it impossible to know “what’s up what’s down.” While most of the lake is less than 15 feet deep there are parts that can dip down to as much as 65 feet according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation Roach said he himself has seen a body pulled from the lake we were eating at the Bavarian Inn and suddenly there was a helicopter hovering,” he recalled said he learned about the legend when he moved to Lake Ronkonkoma from Michigan in 2004 “I heard so many versions of the story from hundreds of people,” he said began work in 2015 on what would become a 32-foot-tall carving of the woman said to haunt the lake The sculpture now towers over the lakefront It is one of several depictions of the “lady of the lake” that can be seen around town Another is a mural painted on the One Stop Deli on Rosevale Avenue Capp pictured with the sculpture created by artist Todd Arnett chair of the local historic commission and a lifelong resident of the area but recognizes that it’s something locals love to talk about She said her parents made her stop swimming in the lake when she was 10 because “too many people were getting sick.” (According to Suffolk officials the lake’s water quality is “impaired,” with pollutants such as cyanobacteria and phosphorous.) The reality is that many people have died in Lake Ronkonkoma The Suffolk County Police Department has recorded five drownings since 1995 said she has documented 126 deaths from the late 1700s to 2022 wrote in his book “Lake Ronkonkoma in History and Legend The Princess Curse and Other Stories: A Lifeguard’s View” that his research found 160 drownings Capp started writing the script for “The Lady of the Lake” while staying at her parents’ home in Lake Ronkonkoma during the pandemic she was taking a virtual screenwriting class and she said the students were challenged to write a horror scene “I thought about today’s definition of commercially viable horror — slasher movies stuff that makes viewers jump out of their seats,” she said Capp said she thought about focusing on something horrific and the first thing that came to her mind “was losing a child.” While the movie focuses on the death of a young man The specifics of the legend vary depending on who’s telling it the lover is an English settler who eventually returned home There’s also the “Romeo and Juliet” version in which the lover was a member of a rival tribe Capp uses the “Romeo and Juliet” variation of the folk tale while in other versions she’s known as Tuskawanta or Tongawanga a tribal enrollment officer for the Shinnecock Nation who writes about Indigenous life for several East End publications were brought on as consultants for the film said she worked to bring authenticity regarding Indigenous culture to the film is a scene near the end of the film when the grieving family conducts a ceremony to honor its lost son The ribbon skirts and shirts worn by the family the personal artifacts displayed on the shore — his football jersey and childhood quilt — “are in keeping with the way we bury people,” she said was among several cast members who attended the Aug 4 premiere of the movie at Sayville Theater he said he had not known about the legend before filming But after spending more than two weeks shooting the film in Lake Ronkonkoma and the surrounding area “I encountered more believers than nonbelievers People wanted you to know this is their story.” His character is adamant that the curse had nothing to do with the death of his son “It was an accident...Dark waters make it impossible to differentiate between up and down Search-and-rescue can’t see more than six inches in front of them.” “The Lady of the Lake” is Capp’s third feature film the company she founded in 2012 and named for her great-grandfather who changed his surname upon arriving at Ellis Island Capp said she studied computer science at Stony Brook University before switching to SUNY Old Westbury But she said her heart was always in theater having grown up performing in local productions Capp said she gravitates to writing “coming-of-age dramas about families healing from various issues.” Her new film begins on the one-year anniversary of the son’s death The surviving daughter is speaking at her high school graduation People line up for the movie’s premiere in Sayville on Aug Area residents will spot many familiar locations in the film — the family’s home is set at the Robert Hewlett Hawkins homestead Other prominent locations include the Parsnip Lake House seen in the film as a gathering spot for the volunteer firefighters Seeing all these local spots was fascinating for Dorothy Knowlton Johnson a Blue Point resident who grew up in Lake Ronkonkoma and attended the premiere we were all aware of the legend,” she said noting her parents never let her go into the lake past her waist She was excited to see it represented on the big screen: “This movie is going to put the town on the map,” Johnson said She hopes Capp will consider a follow-up film that goes deeper into the legend She said she doesn’t know where the story will take her “I don’t think I’m done telling stories about what it was like growing up on the lake,” she told the audience at the premiere “The Lady of the Lake” was released on Aug. 27 by Vision Films. The movie is available on several streaming services, including Amazon, iTunes and Google Play. For updates and screening locations, visit cappricielli.com Trump's influence on NY's future .. Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV Get more on these and other NewsdayTV stories The Newsday app makes it easier to access content without having to log in Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months Get important news about your town as it happens Get the top stories from across our network Are you sure you want to unsubscribe from daily updates A motorcyclist was killed when his Harley-Davidson collided with a Subaru in Lake Ronkonkoma was riding his 2015 Harley-Davidson eastbound on Portion Road when he struck a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek around 8:10 p.m driven by 29-year-old Haley Entenmann of Lake Ronkonkoma was pulling out of a parking lot and making a right turn onto Portion Road when the crash occurred Sokolowski was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital Entenmann was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452 This new film breathes fresh life into a Long Island legend (Keep scrolling for a trailer of the movie.) the daughter of the Setauket Sachem Tribe’s chief fell in love with a rival tribe’s chieftain the chief forbade his daughter from being with her lover Some stories say the couple committed a Romeo and Juliet-style suicide while others claim that the heartbroken daughter took her own life her sorrowful spirit has been responsible for one drowning death each year There have been over 160 drowning deaths reported at Lake Ronkonkoma since the mid-1800s Capp conducted extensive research to learn as much as she could about the folklore her experiences growing up on Lake Ronkonkoma and her interest in telling stories of identity formation along with her personal experience with grief’s effect on a family inspired her to write the psychological thriller “The Lady of the Lake.” “I always wanted to write a story about growing up by [Lake Ronkonkoma] and what it was like for me,” Capp previously told GLI on the origins of the film and markings throughout the town that pay tribute to ‘The Princess.’” The film premiered last month at Bellmore’s Long Island International Film Expo Here’s what one film critic had to say: “‘The Lady of the Lake’ consists in almost equal parts of coming-of-age and horror movies while it’s at the same time a character piece about grief and overcoming grief And since the film moves along at an intentionally laid-back pace and doesn’t give in to spectacle all these diverse pieces also really fit in with one another,” wrote Mike Haberfelner of Search My Trash the “Lady of the Lake” will be available for streaming on Aug which acquired the distribution rights to the project “‘The Lady of the Lake’ is an edge-of-your-seat thriller based on legend and lore but it uniquely also pulls at your heartstrings as it explores a father’s understanding of his fraught teenage daughter in the wake of their family’s tragic loss,” said Lise Romanoff 2024 at 11:57 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;} Suffolk police are investigating a series of burglaries and vandalism at several businesses in the Ronkonkoma and Lake Ronkonkoma areas NY — Suffolk police are investigating a series of burglaries and vandalism at several businesses in the Ronkonkoma and Lake Ronkonkoma areas Police did not release any further details The owner of Salon LaCouture in Lake Ronkonkoma, Amy Tancsik, told News 12 that her salon and five other nearby businesses were targeted "You never think this is going to happen in your own backyard," she said For more from News 12, click here 2024The three suspects were caught on camera in Lake Ronkonkoma.LAKE RONKONKOMA Long Island (WABC) -- Suffolk County police are searching for three men accused of vandalizing a park named after a Navy SEAL in Lake Ronkonkoma two weeks ago Police say the suspects used spray-painted graffiti on a building and over a security camera Anyone with information is asked to call the Suffolk County Police Department's 4th Precinct Crime Control Section at (631) 854-8400 Moloney is a United States Navy veteran who served on a submarine and a graduate of Johnson and Wales College as well as a graduate of the American Academy McAllister Institute for Funeral Service who has supported and served on several charitable foundations He currently serves on the board of the Suffolk County Police Foundation a business started by his grandfather in 1933 The business has locations in Lake Ronkonkoma The committee credited Moloney and his family for always being a supporter of the needs and good causes in the community He will be a second generation grand marshal of the parade after his father Moloney said he is honored to serve as grand marshal and he is "especially grateful to be following in my late father’s footsteps." said the committee's vision has "always been to bring people together and honor the vibrant spirit of our community." "We are thrilled to invite the community to join us in celebrating the shared traditions and unity that this parade represents," he added and whole-hearted fun they celebrate the community The parade "promises to be bigger and better than ever," with a variety of exciting participants and community organizations showcasing their Irish pride in a "spectacular lineup that celebrates the heart and soul of Ronkonkoma," according to the committee "The Ronkonkoma St Patrick’s Parade is more than just a parade — it's a day where memories aremade "Whether you're a longtime resident or just passing through Ronkonkoma invites you to experience the magic of this cherished tradition." and camaraderie that have made this event a staple in ourcommunity for more than three decades," she added Ronkonkoma resident Michelle Monica called the parade the "highlight of the year for so many" in the community and families come together to celebrate our heritage and enjoy a truly memorable day," she added 2024 at 2:36 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Arson Squad detectives are investigating the cause of a Lake Ronkonkoma house fire on Wednesday morning NY — Arson Squad detectives are investigating the cause of a Lake Ronkonkoma house fire on Wednesday morning The fire broke out at a home on Second Street just after 4 a.m. 2025 at 2:55 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}He was pronounced dead at the hospital NY — A 20-year-old died early Saturday after a single-vehicle crash in Lake Ronkonkoma the crash took place on Portion Road near Ronkonkoma Avenue at 2:36 a.m Joseph McKeegan was driving a 2007 BMW 335 sedan westbound on Portion Road from the when he lost control of the vehicle — which crossed over theeastbound lanes — left the roadway was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital The vehicle was impounded for a safety check Detectives are asking anyone with information on this crash to contact the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452 2024 at 4:44 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The grand opening of the 53-acre mixed-use development at the former Ronkonkoma Hub NY — The grand opening of the 53-acre mixed-use development at the former Ronkonkoma Hub The $1.2 billion TRITEC Real Estate Company project integrates housing The development showcases the state's commitment "to fostering sustainable economic growth transit-oriented urban planning across Long Island “Station Yards represents a new chapter in Long Island's growth story and exemplifies our vision for vibrant sustainable communities across New York State,” she said “This project is not just about building apartments and offices — it's about creating a dynamic ecosystem where people can live By investing in mixed-use developments like Station Yards and laying the foundation for long-term economic prosperity in our communities.” and Commissioner Hope Knight called the development "a game-changer for Long Island's economy transit-oriented developments that catalyze growth." this project is set to create thousands of jobs and establish a new standard for sustainable "Station Yards exemplifies how strategic investments can transform communities and drive economic progress serving as a blueprint for future developments across New York State.” “Public investment has been instrumental in bringing Station Yards to life," and his team are "grateful for the strong backing from Governor Hochul and Empire State Development." our commitment of over $400 million in private capital to Ronkonkoma would not have been possible," he said "This investment is creating much-needed housing and transforming the area into a new destination at Long Island's only true multi-modal site the development will include 1,450 residential units expand retail and office spaces by 67,000 and 16,500 square feet and include a public plaza next to more than 1,200 parking spaces Hochul said that the development is located at "a crucial intersection of transportation networks," with its location at the railroad which serves 17,000 daily commuters with access to Penn Station and Grand Central Station not to mention its proximity to Exit 60 of the Long Island Expressway and Long Island MacArthur Airport which was funded by a $55 million capital grant is projected to generate over 10,000 construction jobs and 2,500 permanent jobs "providing a significant boost to local employment opportunities," according to Hochul's office “Station Yards is a shining example of the smart transit-oriented development that is needed in Suffolk County and we thank the governor for her efforts.” Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico said “Station Yards is a prime example of community-supported redevelopment once a somewhat despondent and bleak assemblage of vacant storefronts have been transformed through the efforts of the community courage and mettle to undertake such a project and see it through," he said "I am proud to lead Brookhaven and I remain confident that we can continue to redevelop appropriately while also preserving open spaces and farmland understanding that both are equally important and beneficial to our future," he said Long Island Regional Economic Development Corporation co-chairs said the project "embodies the transformative vision at the heart of Long Island's economic development strategy." mixed-use community centered around a major transportation hub this project addresses multiple priorities — from expanding housing options and creating jobs to promoting sustainable growth and enhancing our region's competitiveness," they said "Station Yards is a testament to what we can achieve when public and private sectors collaborate to build stronger 2024 at 6:07 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Suffolk police Arson Squad detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a home fire in Ronkonkoma that injured four people NY — Suffolk police Arson Squad detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a home fire in Ronkonkoma that injured four people which broke out at the Arlington Road home at about 1:35 p.m. The four people were taken to Stony Brook University Hospital with minor injuries 2025 at 4:07 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}He was brought to the hospital NY — A motorcyclist died in a Lake Ronkonkoma crash Saturday night was operating a 2015 Harley Davidson eastbound on Portion Road when the motorcycle struck a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek that was pulling out of a parking lot and making a right turn onto Portion Road was transported to the same hospital for treatment of minor injuries Both vehicles were impounded for safety checks; no charges were filed in the crash Detectives are asking anyone with information on the crash to contact the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452 2024 at 10:08 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Suffolk police are seeking the public’s help in identifying four people they say left before paying the bill at IHOP in Lake Ronkonkoma earlier this month NY — Suffolk police are seeking the public’s help in identifying four people they say left before paying the bill at IHOP in Lake Ronkonkoma earlier this month The quartet failed to pay for their meal at the Portion Road restaurant on Sept The incident has been classified as theft of service Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information leading to an arrest Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips Tips can also be submitted online at www.P3Tips.com Retail and Office Spaces Creating a Livable Traducción al español Governor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the grand opening of Station Yards is a transformative transit-oriented development spanning 53 acres around the Ronkonkoma Long Island Rail Road station is revitalizing the area by integrating housing creating a dynamic urban center that caters to modern living and working needs This development showcases New York State's commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth enhancing community vibrancy and setting new standards for smart transit-oriented urban planning across Long Island and beyond sustainable communities across New York State,” Governor Hochul said “This project is not just about building apartments and offices – it's about creating a dynamic ecosystem where people can live “Station Yards is a game-changer for Long Island's economy transit-oriented developments that catalyze growth Station Yards exemplifies how strategic investments can transform communities and drive economic progress “Public investment has been instrumental in bringing Station Yards to life and we are grateful for the strong backing from Governor Hochul and Empire State Development our commitment of over $400 million in private capital to Ronkonkoma would not have been possible This investment is creating much-needed housing and transforming the area into a new destination at Long Island's only true multi-modal site This project is not just about building apartments and offices – it's about creating a dynamic ecosystem where people can live Station Yards is taking shape in phases around one of Long Island's key transportation hubs expand retail and office spaces by 67,000 and 16,500 square feet respectively and feature a public plaza alongside more than 1,200 parking spaces Situated at a crucial intersection of transportation networks the development benefits from its proximity to Exit 60 of the Long Island Expressway and Long Island MacArthur Airport It also leverages its proximity to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station — Suffolk County's busiest and Long Island's second-busiest — which serves 17,000 daily commuters with express routes to both Penn Station and Grand Central Station This strategic location enhances the project's vision of a vibrant commercial and public spaces seamlessly integrate In 2017 Empire State Development provided support for the project with a $55 million capital grant underscoring the State's commitment to innovative This investment is part of a broader strategy to revitalize communities across New York State through targeted Station Yards is projected to generate over 10,000 construction jobs and 2,500 permanent jobs providing a significant boost to local employment opportunities By offering a mix of housing options near a major transit hub the development addresses critical housing needs while advancing New York State's goals for sustainable urban development transit-oriented development that is needed in Suffolk County and we thank the Governor for her efforts.” “Station Yards is a prime example of community supported redevelopment robust economic vitality and appropriately placed redevelopment dirt lots and unwelcoming industrial properties the project team and a town with the foresight courage and mettle to undertake such a project and see it through I am proud to lead Brookhaven and I remain confident that we can continue to redevelop appropriately while also preserving open spaces and farmland understanding that both are equally important and beneficial to our future.” “Station Yards embodies the transformative vision at the heart of Long Island's economic development strategy this project addresses multiple priorities — from expanding housing options and creating jobs to promoting sustainable growth and enhancing our region's competitiveness Station Yards is a testament to what we can achieve when public and private sectors collaborate to build stronger As New York continues to address the housing crisis projects like Station Yards increase the supply of housing and help build stronger These developments showcase how public-private partnerships can transform underutilized areas into vibrant community hubs mixed-use communities near major transportation links Station Yards and similar projects are instrumental in attracting and retaining talent prosperous future for regions like Long Island and beyond Pro-Housing Certification is now a requirement for localities to access up to $650 million in discretionary funding more than 200 communities have been certified A Ronkonkoma woman has claimed a $1 million prize on New York Lottery’s Platinum Power scratch-off game Her winning ticket was purchased at Arjo Enterprise Every top prize on the Platinum Power ticket has now been claimed Winners of valid lower-tier prizes may be claimed through Jan players may check the status of any New York Lottery scratch-off by downloading the Game Report at nylottery.ny.gov Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Commission president Ellyn Okvist and others in front of the landmark sculpture earlier this month When a landmark sculpture of the legendary Princess of the Lake lost her arms members of the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Commission knew they could not leave her to decay The commission has contacted a sculptor and structural engineering firm in hopes of repairing and moving the 32-foot-tall wooden sculpture which overlooks the lake from the property of Virginia Schutte The sculpture was carved between 2015 and 2021 from a European copper red beech that was one of five trees shipped from England and planted near Lake Ronkonkoma more than 200 years ago Historical commission president Ellyn Okvist believes the statue’s arms Members of the commission say the wood is rotting and expressed hope that the princess could be preserved somewhere indoors “Time has just added to [the carving’s] demise,” Okvist said She said the group plans to hold a public meeting to discuss action after the commission evaluates options and in a statement asked residents to hold off on “monetary donations until a proper account is secured.” The legend of the Princess of the Lake claims that in the 1600s an Algonquin woman named Tuskawanta killed herself in the waters of Lake Ronkonkoma over a forbidden love The legend further claims that her spirit returns each year to claim a man’s life as she waits for her love, Newsday has reported the lake has become infamous for its drownings said she has been able to identify more than 120 over the years Of the five trees shipped from England, three survived and were designated historic landmarks by the Suffolk County Legislature, Newsday has reported the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Commission in 2015 asked a local sculptor to help preserve it by carving an homage to the princess The group hosted a healing ceremony in 2019 to symbolically appease the spirit from further drownings “The princess' energy is believed to reside in the sculpture as a result of the healing ceremony in 2019 so for that reason alone we must find a way to make her whole again and then implement an ongoing maintenance plan to properly care for the sculpture,” Okvist said in a statement they’re concerned; what are we doing about it?” she added in an interview said the princess "has become an embodiment of the lake" and "represents the history there." Repairing the statue is "important to the legacy" of the princess and her culture's history around the lake "It's part of the legacy of that part of Long Island." a historical commission member who runs a Facebook group called “Love the Lake,” said the princess faces a similar statue of her father “Now we’re hoping to reclaim both of these wood pieces and find a place where they can look at each other forever in a nice We want the Venus de Milo of Ronkonkoma to get her Louvre.” who is part of the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Commission has hosted several presentations about the folklore and history of the hamlet for Cub Scout troops she supervises She highlighted the value of passing traditions and stories “It’s important to know what [the] history is,” she said “They need to know the foundation of where they come from.” Could there be a kernel of truth to the infamous story Thirty-eight years I’ve been here; my kids are not allowed to go near the lake nor are my grandchildren allowed near the lake,” she said She is remembered in local lore and memorialized in a 32-foot-tall wooden sculpture prompting the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Commission to act Brianne Ledda covers personal finance and affordability for Newsday She previously covered Southold and Greenport for The Suffolk Times and is a graduate of Stony Brook University A litany of speakers took to the podium Tuesday in Ronkonkoma to celebrate the latest apartment complex opening at Station Yards — which used to be referred to as the Ronkonkoma Hub The Core Station Yards comprises 388 apartments and more than 80,000 square feet of retail and office space in the heart of the 53-acre redevelopment project being built over what was blighted land across from the LIRR station Two major themes emerged Tuesday in reference to the overall effort by the developers, Tritec Real Estate Company nearly all the speakers highlighted the importance of developers and elected officials working closely with a community when embarking on any regionally transformative project such as the one being celebrated Second, Station Yards and other projects like it are being built to keep young people from fleeing Long Island New York Governor Kathy Hochul certainly drove that second point home people have to pack up and move away,” she said “It’s projects like this that will keep [young people] here and keep the next generation here,” he said And Brookhaven Town Councilman Neil Foley: “My sons and I went to a Rangers game in the spring of this year,” he said “We took the train here and my two oldest two sons took a look at this project and said ‘That’s probably where you’ll be living in four or five years.'” God willing, because the apartments at The Core Station Yards, 388 in total, with another 489 at its neighboring complex, The Alson Aside for the units carved out for workforce housing, a one-bedroom apartment currently starts at $2,785, with 2-bedroom units starting at $3,329, according to the website But Tritec Real Estate co-founder James Coughlan whose company is still re-developing the acreage said the laws of supply and demand cannot be ignored And when it comes to top-rate apartment living — or apartments in general —Long Island is crucially short on supply especially when compared with other highly populated counties in the U.S (He also said it costs about $600,000 per unit to build Phase 2 of the project.) Still, since welcoming its first residents in April, The Core Station Yards is currently 80 percent leased announced Tritec executive vice president and partner Kelly Coughlan Heck the redevelopment project will bring 1,450 new homes to the center of the island Tritec also hosted a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday on what’s referred to as Phase 2A which will bring another 175 new apartments to Ronkonkoma That component of the project is expected to be completed in 2026 “If we had this in more places we would not have the dynamic from which we’re suffering from right now … our kids and grandkids are living in other states “Not because they have better weather; they don’t have lower taxes They met the demand of their communities …” Top: New York Governor Kathy Hochul joints Tritec executives and elected leaders Tuesday to celebrate the opening of The Core Station Yards formerly referred to as the Ronkonkoma Hub ("Vision") announces the North American Transactional VOD release of The Lady of The Lake: The Legend of Lake Ronkonkoma from writer Based on the Native American folklore of the Princess of Lake Ronkonkoma the movie was filmed in the actual childhood home of the Ronkonkoma-raised filmmaker The thriller uses the legend as the backdrop for a modern-day tale designed to resonate with anyone grieving the loss of a loved one An August 4th theatrical event screened for a sold-out crowd and the film will continue to run through for Native American Heritage Month at select theaters on Long Island and in New York City and Los Angeles.  On Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 6pm ET, audiences worldwide can join the cast and crew for a live interactive screening of the film on CYA.Live attendees can chat in real time with the film's stars including Seth Gilliam and the film's writer and director Maria Capp The film stars Seth Gilliam (The Walking Dead) and Nia Sioux (Dance Moms) as the father – daughter protagonists and also features Larry Saperstein (High School Musical: The Musical TV Series) CEO/Managing Director of Vision Films says "The Lady of The Lake is an edge of your seat thriller based on legend and lore but uniquely also pulls at your heartstrings as it explores a father's understanding of his fraught teenage daughter in the wake of their family's tragic loss." Lise and her team's cumulative experience has been invaluable Their alignment in my desire to tell this story about my childhood home and include the experiences and people I love and desire to work with Vision Films is a leading independent sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the licensing and distribution of over 800 feature films and series from some of the most prolific independent film producers in the world Managing Director/CEO Worldwide Distribution Vision Films releases 2-4 films a month across Theatrical Media Contact:Andrea McKinno8184159442[email protected] announces the North American Transactional VOD release of the uniquely created animated film Dalia & The Red Book on May 6 Vision Films is set to release the dystopian starring Malcolm McDowell and Steven Bauer Entertainment Film and Motion Picture Do not sell or share my personal information: NY) – NYS Senator Dean Murray presented Mary Papilon with a NYS Senate Proclamation commemorating her 108th Birthday at a celebration in Lake Ronkonkoma NY.     Celebrating with her were her family and friends along with Assemblyman Doug Smith and Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy who provided birthday greetings of their own.     “Mary is a remarkable woman who has seen and experienced so much in her life was President when Mary was born and this year we will be electing the 47th President of the United States family and loved ones to celebrate this momentous occasion with her May she continue to enjoy life to its fullest,” said NYS Senator Dean Murray 2024 at 1:41 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A man has been arrested in connection with the burglaries of 11 businesses throughout Centereach NY — A man has been arrested in connection with the burglaries of 11 businesses throughout Centereach broke into Deli Pupuseria Salvadoreña on Dawn Drive in Centereach and swiped a cash register and fled on Wednesday but officers arrested him a short time later Following an investigation by 6th Squad detectives it was determined Mancuso burglarized 10 other businesses during which he stole a cash register or cash from Aladdin Indian Restaurant on Middle Country Road in Centereach on Sept He also stole from Kristi’s Deli and Paisanos Pizza & Catering on Sept and Los Jarritos Deli on Horseblock Road in Farmingville on Sept was charged with 11 counts of third-degree burglary 3rd and one count of petit larceny He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in First District Court in Central Islip on Thursday In another burglary case stemming from 2022 Mancuso was remanded without bail on Friday Editor's Note: This story has been updated to include bail status that was not available when the original story was written ("Vision") announces the acquisition of The Lady of The Lake: The Legend of Lake Ronkonkoma from writer and producer Maria Capp for worldwide VOD distribution rights The film premiered at this past weekend's Long Island International Film Expo and after a limited theatrical run it will be available on Transactional VOD across North American on August 27 Filmmaker Maria Capp made a dedicated effort to tell a story and include a population that is inclusive; she proudly employed over 80% Native America NewYorkRep.org selected Capp as featured female storyteller a mentorship accolade that supports female storytellers focusing on oppression Synopsis:  Native folklore says the Lady of the Lake will take any man who enters her domain. A young Native American woman, grieving the loss of her brother in the lake, is determined to uncover its secrets.Trailer HERE and also features Larry Saperstein (High School Musical: The Musical About Vision FilmsVision Films is a leading independent sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the licensing Contact:Andrea McKinnon[email protected]8184159442 Aboriginal, First Nations & Native American Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Update: Amtrak says it’s way to soon to start setting timelines on ‘potential’ service to Ronkonkoma Amtrak trains will soon enough be pulling into Ronkonkoma station So said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine on Wednesday “They’ll start the work in 2026 and shortly after that” the Amtrak trains will be operating on Long Island noting Ronkonkoma was just one of two stations in the country Amtrak was considering for service expansions An Amtrak spokesperson confirmed to GLI that the trains will stop in Hicksville and Jamaica before arriving in Manhattan, where they will connect to the Northeast Corridor — Amtrak’s primary 457-mile rail line running north to Boston and south to Washington This means riders can enjoy a one-seat ride from Long Island without needing to transfer trains at Penn Station which is the current process for Long Island Rail Road riders using Amtrak [Update: Sources within Amtrak tell us that after planning studies trains wouldn’t actually start running until 2028 the earliest “Amtrak wanted to be adjacent to an airport” and Ronkonkoma which sits adjacent to Long Island MacArthur airport Editor’s note: Our original story and headline regarding Amtrak has been updated in light of new source information The Amtrak news comes as the early planning stages of the $2.8 billion Midway Crossing plan, to be built on county-owned land south of the station, moves forward. That plan calls for a hotel and convention center, health sciences offices, sports, entertainment and retail components, according to Crawford Architects renderings Part of the proposal also calls for moving the MacArthur Airport Terminal away from Veterans Memorial Highway and over to Midway Crossing — though the move would need Town of Islip approvals The Islip Town Board in December rejected authorizing some seed money to the tune of $872,000 from earmarked airport funds Romaine told Greater Long Island “the plan did stall a bit Even though the new terminal would be built on Suffolk County-owned land Islip Town would retain control of the airport (Greater Long Island has reached out to Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter Romaine also insisted funding for the terminal project would come from the federal government and the county is looking to build a bus depot south of the station “Ronkonkoma is going to become a regional transportation hub and we’ll probably see the fruits of [the current planning work] within the next five to 10 years and this will be a major game changer,” he said He said Ronkonkoma will soon enough turn into a major regional business hub as well “Suffolk County will create jobs, economic opportunity and economic growth at a time when the rest of New York State is losing population,” said Romaine, in a phone interview as he headed back to Long Island from Albany, where Gov. Kathy Hochul delivered her State of the State remarks Monday we have the opportunity to be one of the major economic drivers in this state,” he said Top: The railroad station at Ronkonkoma as seen from the Smithtown Avenue overpass Editor’s note: Our original headline was since changed slightly for style One person suffered severe injuries in a crash near an office park on Long Island The office park on Hawkins Avenue in Lake Ronkonkoma A 46-year-old man was walking southbound in front of 622 Hawkins Ave when he was struck by a southbound 2016 Subaru Outback was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of critical injuries Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452