Dr. Christopher Gobler of Stony Brook University joins the panel to discuss the current state of water quality on the East End, focusing on nitrogen, innovative and alternative treatment systems (also known as IA systems), and the impact of algae on local ecosystems. He also clarifies a point about "flesh eating bacteria" after a short clip of him went viral out of context.

This week’s panel is:

• Joe Shaw, Consulting Editor at The Express News Group
• Bill Sutton, Editor-in-chief at The Express News Group
• Denise Civiletti, Editor & Publisher of RiverheadLocal
• Beth Young, Editor & Publisher of East End Beacon
• Dr. Christopher Gobler, Professor at Stony Brook University School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences

Enjoying this show? Rate and review us, and send this episode to someone who should hear it. Together we can keep community news alive on the East End.

——

WLIW-FM is community media for Eastern Long Island. Donate to WLIW-FM here.

Download the WLIW-FM app so you never miss a beat!

for Apple devices | for Android devices

This episode of Behind The Headlines features smaller panel and takes a deep dive into the state of Long Island's bays. Beth Young outlines issues with septic systems and how outdated infrastructure in Riverhead makes it difficult to control the amount of nitrogen that leaches into the Peconic Bay. Joe and Bill also talk about Southampton zoning updates and infrastructure projects like sewage treatment plants.

This week’s panel is:

• Joe Shaw, Consulting Editor at The Express News Group
• Bill Sutton, Editor-in-chief at The Express News Group
• Beth Young, Editor & Publisher of East End Beacon

Enjoying this show? Rate and review us, and send this episode to someone who should hear it. Together we can keep community news alive on the East End.

——

WLIW-FM is community media for Eastern Long Island. Donate to WLIW-FM here.

Download the WLIW-FM app so you never miss a beat!

for Apple devices | for Android devices

Please enjoy this Express Sessions while Behind The Headlines is off. This was recorded live on February 12, 2026 and has been edited for time and conciseness. An unedited version can be found here.

Year after year, the Hamptons market has refused to cool. In 2025, the East End saw a record-breaking median sale price, reaching $2 million for the first time in its history, even as the region continues to weather inflation, higher interest rates, soaring insurance costs, relentless traffic and a heated political climate. None of it has dimmed demand for the South Fork’s beaches, natural beauty and coveted lifestyle — or for the exceptional architecture and design available to buy or rent. In this panel discussion, leading Hamptons real estate professionals will explore the pressures shaping today’s market and share their perspectives on what lies ahead.