Grace Renee Magee Graduates From U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Smithtown’s Magee Graduates U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

Grace Renee Magee recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings PointGrace Renee Magee, daughter of Peter and Karen Magee, of Smithtown recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, NY. Magee earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission in the U. S. armed forces.  She also earned a Merchant Marine officer license, qualifying her to serve as an officer on any ship in the U.S. flag merchant marine. Magee is a graduate of Hauppauge High School.

The United States Merchant Marine Academy is one of five U.S. federal service academies. It educates and graduates licensed Merchant Marine officers to serve the nation during peace and war. In addition to the rigorous academic and physical requirements for admission, applicants must be nominated by their Congressman or Senator. Magee was nominated by Senator Charles Schumer.

All USMMA graduates incur an obligation to serve the United States. The U.S. Flag Merchant Marine – manned exclusively by American mariners – is essential for securing the country’s commerce in peacetime and delivering warfighters, weapons, and military supplies in times of conflict.  The majority of “Kings Pointers” serve for eight years as Navy reservists in the Strategic Sealift Officer Program while working aboard U.S. flag vessels; others will serve on active duty in our nation’s armed forces. Magee will fulfill her commitment serving as a Third Assistant Engineer in the US Merchant Marine and as a US Navy Strategic Sealift Officer. 

By virtue of their elite training and real-world experience, graduates are ready to go on day one in service of American military strength and economic power. As part of her four year education, Magee spent one year training as a cadet aboard ocean going vessels. 

The Academy welcomed White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan as the commencement speaker. Mr. Sullivan told the graduates, “You have much to be proud of, and the path you have chosen is tremendously honorable. As soon-to-be ensigns and second lieutenants, assistant engineers, and third mates, you will crew ships that are essential to our nation’s security. You’ll spend a large part of your life at sea so that your fellow Americans can live safely at home.”

This year marks the 50th anniversary of women entering USMMA, making it the first federal service academy to admit women. In honor of this celebration, Rear Admiral Dianna Wolfson (USMMA class of ‘96) delivered the distinguished Alumna speech.

Dedicated during WWII, USMMA has since served the nation in both peace and war.  Learn more at www.WeAreTheUSMMA.com

For more information about the Academy, visit https://www.usmma.edu/.

Smithtown’s Terri Alessi-Miceli Honored with 2024 NYS Senate Woman of Distinction Award

Smithtown’s Terri Alessi-Miceli Honored with 2024 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction Award

HIA-LI President and CEO Terri-Alessi-Miceli with State Senator Mario Mattera.ALBANY, NY – MAY 31, 2024 – Longtime Smithtown resident Terri Alessi-Miceli, President and CEO of HIA-LI, based in Hauppauge, has been recognized with the New York State Senate Woman of Distinction Award. This prestigious award celebrates exemplary women from across New York State who have demonstrated outstanding professional or personal achievements and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Each year, a select number of women receive this honor, making it a highly exclusive recognition.

Established in 1998 as part of the State’s celebration of Women’s History Month, the New York State Senate Women of Distinction program honors women who have significantly contributed to their communities and serve as role models. This year’s honorees embody the ideals of leadership, vision, and compassion, having made indelible marks on their fields and communities.

State Senator Mario Mattera, in selecting Terri Alessi-Miceli for this award, remarked, “Terri’s dedication to our community and her relentless pursuit of excellence and service embody the spirit of the Woman of Distinction Award. We are proud to honor her as an exemplary leader in our community.  Thank you, Terri, and all in the HIA-LI for all you do for our business community and the residents of the region.”

“I am deeply proud and humbled to receive this New York State Senate Woman of Distinction Award. It is an honor to be recognized alongside such remarkable women who have made significant contributions to our communities,” said Alessi-Miceli in expressing her gratitude. “This award is a testament to the collective efforts of the HIA-LI team and our partners, who work tirelessly to support and empower businesses across Long Island.”

Terri Alessi-Miceli has been a driving force in advocating for regional development and supporting local businesses. Headquartered at the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, HIA-LI is one of the recognized voices for Long Island business and a powerful force for regional economic development. The Innovation Park employs over 55,000 people at 1,350 companies and contributes $13 billion in economic output. Under her leadership, HIA-LI has tackled critical issues such as transportation, workforce development, downtown revitalization, energy and the environment, and affordable housing, significantly impacting the region’s economic landscape.

“Terri Alessi-Miceli is an inspirational leader whose dedication and vision have propelled HIA-LI to new heights,” commented Carol A. Allen, Board Chair of HIA-LI and CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union. “On behalf of the entire HIA-LI board, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Terri for this well-deserved recognition.”

Alessi-Miceli’s dedication extends beyond her professional achievements. She serves on the board of Discover LI and has previously served on the boards of the Long Island Regional Planning Council and the Suffolk County Girl Scout Council. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award, Long Island Business News’ Top 50 Women Professionals, and City & State Magazine’s “Above & Beyond Innovators Award.”

About HIA-LI

Now in its 46th year, HIA-LI is one of the recognized voices for Long Island business and a powerful force for regional economic development. It also represents the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the largest industrial park in the Northeast. The park supports 55,000 jobs, produces $13 billion in goods and services each year, and accounts for eight percent of Long Island’s gross domestic product. For more information, go to www.HIA-LI.org or call (631) 543-5355.

Congratulations Denise Hughes 1 Of 8,143

Dogwood Elementary staffer runs for glory

Dogwood Elementary School office assistant Denise Hughes

Dogwood Elementary School office assistant Denise Hughes recently completed running her sixth World Major Marathon.

Hughes is now an Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Finisher, completing marathons in Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.

According to https://endurance.biz/ Hughes is one of 8,143 people in the world to achieve this feat.

Photos courtesy of Smithtown CSD

Kings Park Resident Deanna M Eble To Receive 2023 Premier Business Award

KINGS PARK RESIDENT TO RECEIVE 2023 PREMIER BUSINESS WOMEN AWARD

Garden City, NY March 6, 2023 – Deanna M. Eble, Esq. of Kings Park, NY and partner at the Russo Law Group, P.C., will be honored at the 2023 RichnerLIVE and Herald Community Newspapers fourth annual Premier Business Women Awards. The event will be held on March 22, 2023 at The Heritage Club at Bethpage.

Honorees will be formally recognized for their career achievements and community contributions.

“It is with great pride that I accept this award. I take great satisfaction in helping families address their legal needs, so they can focus their energies on spending time with their loved ones.” she said. 

Deanna focuses on Elder Law, Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning and Medicaid Planning, and has practiced in these areas for over 20 years. Deanna is a member of the New York State Bar Association, a Co-Chair of the Health Care Issues Committee, Elder Counsel and is admitted to the New York Bar. She earned her law degree at Hofstra University School of Law. Deanna frequently presents seminars on Elder Law and Estate Planning throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.

As an attorney, Deanna has helped hundreds of families with all levels of planning. She assists families interested in planning in advance for the possibility of incapacity and the need for long-term care. She also helps families in crisis situations—when they have been told that a loved one must enter a nursing home soon, or has already been placed in one, and they need to obtain assistance from Medicaid quickly.

About Russo Law Group, P.C.

The Russo Law Group has been serving the Long Island community for over 35 years. We concentrate our practice in Elder Law, Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning, Trust and Estate Administration and Real Estate Law.

SHSE Grad Anthony Tarquinio Joins Senator Mattera's Office

Senator Mattera Welcomes Smithtown Session Volunteer

Senator Mario R. Mattera (2nd Senate District) recently welcomed Anthony Tarquinio to his Albany office as a session volunteer.  A 2020 graduate of Smithtown High School East, Anthony is currently in his senior year of study at the University of Albany where he is majoring in Homeland Security and Cyber Security.

During his tenure with Senator Mattera, Anthony will assist staff with legislative matters and constituent assistance to enhance the lives of the residents of the 2nd Senate District.  A member of the University of Albany’s ice hockey team, Anthony is on course to graduate this coming spring.

“I am very pleased to welcome Anthony to our staff and know that he will be a tremendous resource for the residents of our area.  I thank him for taking the time to join our team for the Legislative Session and look forward to working with him over the next few months,” stated Senator Mattera.