Opinion

I haven't shared my opinions much, for a host of reasons. Yesterday, someone I’ve known a long time, someone I thought knew me well enough to not have to ask, inquired if I am supporting Trump. I was dumbfounded for a second. But it made me realize how silent I've been.

Residents of the Town of Riverhead, you and I have what it takes to shape the future of our community, ensure our rural quality of life, and continue to protect our critical, natural resources.

America's conversion to a gambling nation has fed government's addiction to growth. A tribal casino for L.I. is not as far-fetched an idea as it may have seemed — and the Calverton Enterprise Park continues to be the subject of discussion among developers, real estate brokers, bankers and politicians.

Guest column by Larry Simms questions propriety of town's settlement with Grapes and Greens/Cider House owner.

Former county legislator Greg Blass, known as a 'maverick' for his unwillingness to play with the party bosses, makes a case for getting involved in politics and the dangers of leaving government up to people who are in it, not for public service, but for their own self-interests.

Rep. Lee Zeldin argues for passage of the Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2016 that would, among other things, put in place a monitoring system to screen for infectious diseases abroad.

In too many instances, we are favored with furtive antics from some (certainly not all) in OUR government whom we have hired to serve and share with the public. At question is how to tackle what's increasingly clear: "We the People" are time and again, "outta the loop."

I’m as disgusted with the sad state of Riverhead campaigning as anyone, but what troubles me most is that the mud-slinging diverts attention from really important things.

Riverhead supervisor candidate Anthony Coates on the debate about immigration taking place in Riverhead Town Hall: "Hooping and hollering about 'Illegals' may get you some headlines and maybe some votes but what’s left behind is resentment and the ashes that can kindle a fire."

Zeldin criticizes the president's proposal to raise taxes on upper income earners and large financial institutions as 'aggravated class warfare.' Instead of higher taxes for 'hardworking job creators,' taxes and regulations should be cut, he says, to 'reward success' and spur economic growth that will benefit workers.