Local Interview Spotlight

Good morning!

I sat with one of our business leaders a few weeks ago and have been waiting for the new format to share her story. I hope you enjoy my interview with Carol Seitz-Cusack of Therm-A-Trol.

If you are wondering where that name came from like I did, its actually a funny story. The name "Therm-A-Troll" was not chosen by Carol's father but was among a list of names provided by the state when registering the company. After submitting paperwork Therm-A-Troll was suggested by the state, creating the unique identity that has endured since. Strange fortunes.

On to it…

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

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Local Spotlight

Interview Spotlight: Carol Seitz-Cusack of Therm-A-Trol

This week, Patchogue Live Local is delighted to present an in-depth interview with Carol Seitz-Cusack, the dedicated and innovative owner of Therm-A-Trol, a well-established HVAC company with a rich history in the community.

Background and Journey

Carol Seitz-Cusack's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep connection to her roots. Raised within the family business, which was started by her father in 1967, Carol's childhood memories are filled with summers and sick days from school spent at the office.

With a nursing background specializing in open-heart and lung transplants, Carol initially joined the family business to help out temporarily. However, it soon became clear that her skills and dedication were needed more permanently. "I came in a two-week period just to help with filing and stuff like that. And when I got here, I knew that they needed me more than that," Carol recalls.

Modernizing and Expanding

Under Carol's leadership, Therm-A-Trol has undergone significant modernization. She introduced advanced technologies, including computer systems and iPads, to streamline operations and improve customer service. Customers now receive notifications similar to those for salon appointments, reminding them of scheduled services and imminent arrivals. This technological leap has not only improved efficiency but also enhanced customer satisfaction.

Carol's approach is both innovative and deeply personal. The first year she was there full time, her father pulled her in the office and said, 'What are you doing?' And she said, 'What am I doing?' He said, 'You just increased my business 62%,'" she shares with a smile.

Community Connection

Her father sadly passed away in 2019 and she reflected on her family.

Carol's roots in Patchogue run deep. Her great-grandfather was the first barber in Patchogue, and her family's contributions to the community are numerous. Her father's mother owned the Skinner Hotel in Sayville, and her great-grandfather built many of the houses in Patchogue Village through his partnership with a local lumber yard. This deep connection to the community fuels Carol's passion for her work and her commitment to maintaining and growing the family business.

"My father's family is from Patchogue. My great-grandfather was the first barber in Patchogue," Carol proudly states. "We have such a great reputation for liking people and doing the right thing and being a local business."

Challenges and Triumphs

The HVAC industry, like many others, faces its share of challenges. Carol emphasizes the importance of trust and quality service, particularly in an era where customers are often misled by online misinformation. "I've noticed over the last five years, trust isn't in our society as much as it used to be," she says. Her commitment to providing reliable and honest service has earned Therm-A-Trol a stellar reputation in the community.

Carol also highlights the challenges posed by the region's infrastructure, such as frequent brownouts that can damage equipment. She advises customers to consider these factors when choosing their HVAC systems, emphasizing the importance of reliability and longevity over fancy features.

Dedication to Staff and Customers

Carol's dedication extends to her staff, whom she treats with the same care and respect she shows her customers. She values their hard work and ensures they feel appreciated through unique gestures like annual fishing trips. "I take them fishing every year in September. We rent a private boat, and it's just a way to thank them for working hard through the summer," she shares.

Her leadership style, influenced by her nursing background, emphasizes meticulous documentation and customer care. "We follow the method of medicine: if it's not documented, it's not done. We need to be able to open any customer profile and see the last thing done, photos, everything," Carol explains.

Looking Ahead

As Therm-A-Trol continues to thrive, Carol remains dedicated to her father's legacy, ensuring the company not only survives but flourishes in the modern era. Her story is a powerful example of resilience, innovation, and the enduring value of family heritage.

Therm-A-Trol is a local business right here in Bluepoint. There are available to handle all your HVAC needs. They are dedicated to their customers and it shows with 4.9 Stars on Google.

Reach them at 631-363-6600. Or on the web https://mythermatrolhvac.com/

Local Pulse

🐾 Droopy, in a pageant from the past, is stealing hearts everywhere! Who can resist that nostalgic face? Certainly not us! Pageant Dog

🚲 A 12-year-old on a bike was struck by a motorcyclist in a hit-and-run incident in Medford. Police are searching for the suspect involved in this alarming event. News 12 Long Island

🏥 Long Island Community Hospital execs are gearing up for a merger with NYU Langone Health. This merger promises to enhance healthcare services for the community. Crain's New York

🚗 Jawan Harrison was sadly involved in a hit-and-run pedestrian crash in North Bellport. The incident occurred near Eastern Suffolk BOCES, and police are searching for the driver. The Legal Advocate

🐾 A baby ferret has been safely returned to a Medford pet shop after being taken during store hours. The adorable thief is now back where it belongs! Greater Long Island

🕵️‍♂️ A man is accused of burglarizing several businesses in Suffolk County, according to police. The suspect's crime spree has local shop owners on high alert. Patch

🚔 A man fled in a pickup truck with Michigan license plates after stealing items from a Lowe's in Medford, according to the SCPD. Authorities are on the hunt for the suspect. LongIsland.com

House of the Week

This week’s House is a charming home located at 333 Roe Avenue in Patchogue. The property boasts three bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms, and spans 1,216 square feet on a 0.17-acre lot.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a bright living room with large bay windows that allow natural light to fill the space. The kitchen, equipped with modern appliances and plenty of counter space, adjoins a cozy dining area suitable for family gatherings.

The master bedroom includes a walk-in closet, providing ample storage. The additional bedrooms offer versatile options for guests or a home office. Outside, the backyard is a highlight with a large oak tree providing shade, creating a perfect spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Situated near Patchogue’s vibrant downtown, as well as parks and schools, 333 Roe Avenue offers a blend of convenience and charm, making it a notable choice for this week’s listing.

For more information visit Flyhomes.

 House of The Week is a home selected by the Patchogue Live Local team and is not a paid advertisement. All ads are labelled as such. If you’re a realtor who wishes to feature your home in our newsletter, please contact us at [email protected]

Community Highlights

• The 2024 Alive After Five Street Festivals in Patchogue offer an exciting lineup of live music, food vendors, and local crafts. Greater Long Island

• Patchogue's new splash pad at the Patchogue Pools will debut on June 29, offering a fun and refreshing way for families to cool off this summer. Greater Long Island

• Young entrepreneurs have revived a historic Patchogue building with the opening of a new restaurant, bringing fresh culinary offerings to the area. News 12 Long Island

• The award-winning independent coming-of-age film "These Days," set in Brentwood, will be screening in Patchogue, providing a unique cinematic experience for local audiences. Long Island Events

• Record Stop of Patchogue is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary, marking a significant milestone for this beloved local music store. Greater Long Island

• The Medford Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Summer Concert Series, featuring a lineup of live performances for the community to enjoy throughout the season. Medford Chamber of Commerce

• The Gateway is presenting "Escape to Margaritaville," a fun-filled musical featuring Jimmy Buffett’s classic hits, running in 2024. The Gateway

• The Bellport Fire Department is hosting a Classic Car Show on Sunday, June 30th, showcasing vintage and unique cars. Bellport Fire Department Classic Car Show

• Want to have your announcement featured? [email protected]