Our Gratitude is Resolute Despite Changes to Annual Memorial Day Commemorations  

Since the first days of the American Revolution, through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Suffolk County residents have had a long and proud tradition of offering themselves to the defense and security of our nation.  It has been a story of ordinary men and women whose actions and selflessness helped to define this nation’s past and shape its present. 

It is a history of unexpected heroes who answered the nation’s call to protect liberty and defend freedom where ever it was threatened. From battle fields of lush grassland to towering beachheads; from the open seas to desert sands, these men and women gave of themselves, not for fame, or fortune or personal reward but because they knew the true cost to humanity if they chose not answer that call to defend democracy. 

On this Memorial Day, despite the absence of parades and limitations on ceremonies, let our gratitude serve as an honor to those who are currently serving and all those who never returned home. Fly your flag or paste a flag in your front window to show your appreciation of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom. It is because of those who were, and those who continue to be willing to protect freedom at any cost, that we are truly free.

Suffolk Beaches to Open for Memorial Day Weekend 

Suffolk County’s two ocean beaches – Cupsogue Beach County Park and Smith Point County Park – will be open for residents this Memorial Day weekend. Parks will be limited to half of their capacity and concession stands and playgrounds will be closed. Parks’ visitors are required to practice social distancing while at the beach.

For information about:

• Town of Brookhaven beaches, please visit: https://www.brookhavenny.gov
• New York State beaches, please visit: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/

Beach Bummed?

Suffolk County’s shoreline won’t be the only place to get outside this Memorial Day weekend. If you are searching for somewhere new to explore, head over to www.facebook.com/KaraHahnLD5 for parks that will be highlighted throughout the month for the annual “A Park a Day in May” challenge.

This year, all locations offer activities consistent with social distancing and focus exclusively on running/walking/biking/hiking trails. Trails are not designed for large gatherings and therefore tend to encourage individuals, couples and very small groups more capable of social distancing. These trails provide opportunities to get out into nature, spot local wildlife, inhale fresh air, witness spectacular scenic views and even exercise -- all while avoiding large crowds and cramped spaces. 

COVID-19 Related Updates, Information and Resources

The Long Island Region continues to make progress toward meeting the criteria necessary to begin a phased reopening of our economy. Currently, our region meets four of the seven metrics required for opening. To monitor progress visit: https://forward.ny.gov/regional-monitoring-dashboard.

• New York State has announced that religious gatherings of no more than 10 people and drive-in and parking lot services will be allowed statewide beginning Thursday, May 21st.
• New Yorkers without health insurance can apply to NY State of Health (https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/) through June 15, 2020. Applicants must apply within 60 days of losing previous coverage.
• Health care workers can text NYFRONTLINE to 741-741 to access 24/7 emotional support services.
• New Yorkers can call the COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling.
• Touro Law School has established a helpline to answer legal questions arising from the pandemic. Volunteer attorneys will connect community members to clinical program and appropriate legal partners on a wide range of legal issues, including landlord-tenant, civil liberties, bankruptcy, employee rights, unemployment, stimulus payment, insurance and more. The free helpline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Complete the following intake form and a representative will be in touch with you shortly:https://www.tourolaw.edu/AboutTouroLaw/TLCResponse
• Residents who have questions related to COVID-19 should continue to visit the County website: www.SuffolkCountyNY.gov or call Suffolk 3-1-1 (631-853-6311 if outside the County) where you will be directly connected to a live operator who can direct your call to the appropriate place.

Suffolk Hospitals Given Green Light for Elective Surgeries 

Suffolk residents who have been unable to schedule important, but elective surgeries since the pandemic began are now being encouraged to consult with their physicians about scheduling procedures following the State lifting its temporary hold on these surgeries.  In March, elective surgeries were prohibited to ensure there were enough hospital beds and medical staff available to handle COVID-19 cases.

Facial Coverings Continue to be Required in Public When Social Distancing Not Possible