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Yearly Archives: 2023

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Photo from Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook University men’s soccer team took down the Charleston Cougars, 1-0, on the road on Oct. 7. Jonas Bickus tallied the lone goal of the contest, his team-leading sixth of the season, and Edmond Kaiser registered a second consecutive shutout, stopping all four shots he faced.

It was a quiet start to a physical contest in South Carolina, though Stony Brook had multiple opportunities offensively early on. Three consecutive corner kicks in the opening 10 minutes did not lead to a shot by the Seawolves, but later tries from Caleb Danquah and Bickus missed the mark. It was a chance in transition that would lead to the game’s lone goal.

Following a red card issued to a Charleston player, who took down a Stony Brook attacker just outside the box as he got behind the defense, the Seawolves opened the scoring. Lorenzo Selini rolled a short pass to Bickus, who blasted a right-footed shot off the fingertips of the keeper and into the right side of the net to put the Seawolves on top 1-0. The Cougars would take the ensuing kickoff down a man and at a disadvantage in the scoring column as well.

The score held heading into the second half and it would hold for the remainder of the match. Stony Brook continued to move forward in the second half, even as time dwindled. Offensively, the Seawolves had multiple scoring chances to put the game away, but could not convert. Defensively, Stony Brook held strong and did not allow Charleston to possess much or create many chances in the offensive third. 

The team returned home to host Le Moyne on Oct. 11. The score was not available as of press time.

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The team celebrates their victory after Sunday's game. Photo fron SBU Athletics

The Stony Brook volleyball team grabbed its sixth win in a row after defeating the Hampton Lady Pirates in straight sets (25-18, 25-12, 25-12) on Oct. 8 at Holland Hall, Hampton University in Hampton, VA.

The Seawolves’ offense was paced by Kali Moore, who finished with a team-high 12 kills on the day while accumulating a hitting percentage of .385, and by Abby Stanwood, who had 10 kills while hitting .563. Defensively, the squad had two players reach double figures in digs as Leoni Kunz had 13 and Julia Patsos tallied 12. 

SET 1: The Seawolves won the first point and never trailed to win the first set 25-18. Stony Brook led by as many as nine points at 18-9 after a kill by Moore before ultimately finishing off the set. 

SET 2: After their win in the first set, Stony Brook put itself on the cusp of a sweep with a dominating 25-12 victory in set number two. The Seawolves took control of the set lead early on at 2-1 following a kill by Lauren Schmitz, and went on to score 10 of the first 12 points as five different-student athletes recorded a kill. To finish the set, Stony Brook opened its biggest lead of the stanza, 13 points, totaling 20 kills in the process.

SET 3: Stony Brook then ended the match with a victory in set number three to secure the sweep. The Seawolves led from the opening point on in the set to earn a 25-12 victory. The squad ended on a high note following the kill by Katie Hickey, claiming its biggest lead, 13 points, to close out the set. The Stony Brook offense also got a boost from three aces in the stanza, including two from Patsos. 

“I thought we came out a little slow today but picked up our aggressiveness on offense, especially in transition to earn our points. I’m proud of our group for coming in focused this week. We have an important stretch coming up and I’m excited to continue to get better with this team,” said head coach Kristin Belzung. 

The team returns to the court next weekend when they host Delaware University at Pritchard Gymnasium for a matchup on Saturday at 11 a.m., and Sunday beginning at 1 p.m.

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Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD
Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the man who allegedly stole merchandise from a South Setauket store in September. 

A man allegedly stole approximately $990 worth of merchandise from Target, located at 265 Pond Path, on September 18. 

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential. 

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File photo by Joseph Cali

News Flash

Generated by ChatGPT, edited by our staff 

•  MTA includes Port Jefferson Branch improvements in 20-year capital needs assessment.

•  Inclusion doesn’t guarantee pursuit, decisions hinge on future funding and other factors.

•   Local officials push for project, emphasizing economic benefits and improved transit.

The decades-old proposal to electrify the Port Jefferson Branch of the Long Island Rail Road passed a significant hurdle last week, though uncertainty remains long-term.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which owns and operates LIRR, included capacity improvements for the Port Jeff Branch within its 2025-2044 20-Year Needs Assessment blueprint published last week. 

The document outlines MTA’s long-term vision for the region’s transit, describing some of the needed improvements for the local line, including electrification, double tracking, stations, a storage yard and associated infrastructure.

The report states some of the project’s objectives, such as increased travel speed and frequency while providing a one-seat ride to Penn Station and Grand Central Madison. It further acknowledges the need to reduce strain upon the Ronkonkoma Branch by North Shore riders driving inland.

In a Sept. 29 letter addressed to Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), over two dozen state, county and local public officials called for Port Jeff Branch modernization within the 20-year plan. Dave Steckel, an MTA media liaison, said the agency had complied with the core request of the letter.

“Regarding the letter on Port Jefferson Branch electrification, the MTA has satisfied the request laid out in that letter by including Port Jefferson Branch electrification in the 20-year needs assessment,” Steckel said.

But, he added, “Inclusion in this analysis does not mean that the MTA will be pursuing a project. Decisions about which of these projects, if any, will be included in subsequent MTA capital programs, will be made in the context of those future programs, including the amount of funding available to rebuild and improve the existing MTA system, which will need to be prioritized before any expansion projects can be considered.”

The report finds potential operational constraints for the electrification project, highlighting the need for additional capital improvements, space for a new terminal rail yard and planning studies. The plan suggests the Lawrence Aviation Superfund site in Port Jefferson Station as a potential site for the rail yard.

The 20-year plan also added some possible drawbacks for prioritizing the Port Jeff Branch. Electrification of the line rated average in cost-effectiveness “mainly due to the high cost and relatively low ridership.”

Continuing the fight

In separate statements to TBR News Media, public officials representing North Shore communities continued to call for the MTA to prioritize the project.

New York State Sen. Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) emphasized the centrality of the Lawrence Aviation property in regional planning for the North Shore and beyond.

“Electrification of the Port Jefferson line and the establishment of the Lawrence Aviation site as a regional rail hub is a critically important component of our efforts to enhance mass transit service to North Shore residents,” he said. “Improving access and reliability to our mass transit system will increase ridership, alleviate traffic congestion and be an economic boost to the local economy.”

Village of Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow expanded on the existing pressures upon Port Jeff Branch commuters to Manhattan, particularly in the context of the burden of transit by rail.

“For years, residents of Port Jeff and the surrounding communities have demonstrated by their actions how they feel about the Port Jefferson Branch — we drive to Ronkonkoma when seeking direct travel, a shorter commute, more frequent service options and less transfers,” she said. “Electrification and modernization of the Port Jefferson Branch will increase connectivity between stations. It will reduce travel time and transfers, and provide more frequent scheduling options, including express options.”

State Sen. Mario Mattera (R-St. James) emphasized the vast support for this effort among officials and community stakeholders, noting “everybody involved wants this.” He said generating the necessary public awareness and appealing to Hochul remain critical.

“We need to make sure that we convince the governor that this is important for Long Islanders,” he said, advocating for a grassroots, mobilized effort to bolster public support. “Strength with numbers wins,” he added.

Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine (R) suggested electrification would help counteract some of the downward trends throughout the region, namely the loss of youth.

“Thousands of Brookhaven residents use the LIRR to commute to work every day, and thousands more ride the train for other reasons,” the town supervisor said. “Electrification would provide faster, more efficient service and attract people to live in the communities with close access to the railroad,” adding, “The economic upside would be felt throughout the town as more people choose to live here, and our young people decide to stay because of the improved LIRR service and easier access in and out of New York City.”

Though placement onto the 20-year plan could be considered a win, much work remains ahead. Larry Penner, a transit advocate and former director of Federal Transit Administration Region 2, called upon the various governmental bodies across the North Shore to begin laying down seed funds to signal their interest.

“Why don’t all these elected officials put up some money to at least keep the project alive?” he said. “Why are they waiting for the MTA to move the project forward?” He added, “Talk is cheap, but actions speak louder.”

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METRO photo

By Daniel Dunaief

Daniel Dunaief

The world is a mess.

For some, that world doesn’t even need to extend beyond the walls of their own home, as they deal with one personal or family crisis after another.

For others, that includes horrible headlines and the reality of a world in which people jump at the opportunity to attack them physically, verbally or both. The world is filled with so much dry kindling that any kind of spark seems sufficient to lead to a brush fire.

And, stupidly, many of us look at our phones or watch the news right before we go to bed, giving our unconscious minds the opportunity to marinate in the misery and to imagine ourselves caught in circumstances beyond our control that conjure our worst nightmares on steroids.

Once our minds start to ponder these horrific realities, some of which play out in the protests and counter protests that characterize an American landscape filled with divisions and tectonic differences, we find ourselves staring, wide eyed, into a dark abyss.

Despite the need to give our minds and souls a rest to rebuild our resilience and prepare us for the next day, we struggle to sleep for any length of time.

Like a bad habit we can’t kick, sleep deprivation defines our existence, making us more vulnerable, angrier, and reactive to the kinds of stimuli, conspiracy theories, and information that unnerves us.

Shutting that down and ignoring the reality of a world coming apart doesn’t seem like an option, even if we ourselves aren’t doing anything other than losing sleep, arguing with friends, family or coworkers, and promising to vote for the person whose anger, frustration, and alarm bells sound similar enough to our own.

These restless nights exacerbate our feelings of unease and anxiety. Even for people who didn’t have a hard day filled with deadlines, challenging assignments, impossible bosses, or frustrating losses, the end of the day can feel less like a chance to reflect on triumphs than a moment to surrender to a cruel circadian rhythm that leaves us with even less emotional and energy reserves each day.

We need the kind of sleep that doesn’t depend on over the counter remedies. We need to feel safe, secure, and relaxed enough to rest.

For many of us in the United States, that relaxation can arise out of a belief in a better tomorrow. We can control ourselves, the world we create for our children, and the way we interact with each other.

We might sleep better if we feel like we improved someone else’s day, if we volunteer to help others, or if we take a moment to appreciate what we can control.

Getting up and circling the house at 2 or 4 am won’t help us the next day, nor will logging onto our computers and sending or responding to emails. We’re not doing our best work at those hours and we aren’t our most insightful.

The benefit of stories in which the characters live “happily ever after” is that it gives our minds resolution and helps us believe that things will work out for us as well.

Our parents and grandparents rarely tell us to give up, give in, and surrender to problems outside of our control. We shouldn’t tell ourselves that either, no matter how late at night we might start to believe it.

A good night’s sleep won’t help us solve the world’s problems, but it may help us start to solve some of our own. People have told me many times not to make decisions when I’m angry or frustrated. The same holds true for being tired. Finding solutions to our nighttime problems may contribute to discovering some relief from the pressures and worries of the day.

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METRO photo

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief

It’s difficult to live in the suburbs without a car. In fact, it’s almost impossible to raise a family here without four wheels. Many people own more than one to accommodate the various members of the household. And the costs of maintaining a car are escalating, threatening to take away from disposable income and the suburban quality of life.

Here are some statistics from a recent article in The New York Times that quotes the AAA. 

The average annual cost in the first five years of ownership is now $12,182. Last year it was $10,728. This jump is a result of higher purchase prices, maintenance costs and greater finance charges. Just to put this in its proper perspective: “That’s 16 percent of the median household income before taxes.” And about 92 percent of households own at least one; 22 percent have at least three.

Here are some more facts. All those personal cars number some 223 million and together add up to trillions of dollars a year in spending. (I can’t even check this because my calculator doesn’t go up that high.) How much, by comparison, was spent on public transportation in 2019 for capital and operating expenses? The answer, while still up in the mind-blowing category, is only 79 billion. Just drop the zeros and you get the point.

Car expenses can be on a par with housing, child care and food for some families. The average payment for a used car is $533, according to TransUnion, while the average for a new one is $741 a month. Multiply that by the number of cars parked in one driveway for a household.  

Some examples of car expenses: monthly payments, which have gone up in the last year, either to buy or lease, gas, registration, insurance, regular maintenance, perhaps tolls, parking, car washes and maybe even an un-budgeted accident. While insurance covers most of that, still there is deductible, perhaps loaner costs, not to mention the toll of stress and aggravation, which we are not even measuring with a price tag.

Now to the other side of the equation. Some people love their cars. They love driving them, washing them, caring for them, even naming them. They love shopping for them.  They love proudly comparing theirs to other comparable vehicles in animated discussions with likeminded owners. Their car is a pleasure they don’t mind spending on because they get more from it than just passage from one point to another. For some, a car is like having another child.

Since I grew up in New York City, where public transportation is, for the most part, excellent, my parents never had a car. I remember when my dad made a careful list of the expenses connected with owning a car and decided we could take taxis all over town for much less. Of course, we never took taxis either. And neither of my parents had a driver’s license. My mother, who loved a bargain, was particularly delighted that one could take the subway for miles, from one borough to the next, even to Coney Island and Rockaway Beach from midtown Manhattan for only one 15-cent token. Having to travel in a car for her would have been a deprivation.

The other issue about cars, of course, is pollution. As we are thinking green, we are aware that automotive emissions are responsible for some 50 to 90 percent of air pollution in urban areas. Wherever they are, motor vehicles are a major contributor to air pollution.Those emissions affect global warming, smog and various health problems. They include particulate matter, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. All of those are toxic to living organisms and can cause damage to the brain, lungs, heart, bloodstream and respiratory systems—among other body parts.

All of that notwithstanding, it is said we have a love affair with our cars.

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Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD
Do you recognize this woman? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate two people who allegedly stole merchandise from a Selden store in September.

A man and woman allegedly stole approximately $500 worth of merchandise from Target, located at 307 Independence Plaza, on September 5. 

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

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COMING OF AGE Port Jefferson Documentary Series presents a screening of ‘Between the Rains’ at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 16. Photo from PJDS
Thursday 12

Cirque Italia in Lake Grove

Cirque Italia opens under the white and blue big top tent at the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove tonight at 7:30 and runs through Oct. 15. The show takes place weekdays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. This high-octane show features master jugglers, low wire fanatics, dazzling contortion, wild trampoline antics, and even a wheel of death! Suitable for all ages. For tickets and more information, visit the box office on site or go to www.cirqueitalia.com. 

Friday 13

Cirque Italia in Lake Grove

See Oct. 12 listing.

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket will host a concert featuring singer-songwriter Caroline Doctorow with musical guest Russ Seeger with doors open and sign-up for open mic at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person, available in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. 631-751-0297.

Saturday 14

Cirque Italia in Lake Grove

See Oct. 12 listing.

Outdoor Country Auction 

Going once, going twice, sold! The Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson will hold its 35th annual outdoor Country Auction on the grounds of the Mather House Museum, 115 Prospect St., Port Jefferson at 9:30 a.m. with a preview at 9 a.m. Items this year include 1870s corner cupboard w/key, framed paintings and prints, hand blown  green glass bowl, trunks, clocks, art glass, linens, silk scarf collection,  baskets, fossils, quilts, garden items, antique iron French bulldog, 1940s  croquet set, children’s toys, lamps, vintage brass calculator, marble and brass desk set, and many more unique items. Free parking at school parking lot on High Street. Lunch available for purchase. Rain or shine. 631-473-2665, www.portjeffhistorical.org

Fall Bazaar

St. James Episcopal Church, 490 North Country Road, St. James will hold its annual Fall Bazaar from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with vendors, raffle baskets, bakery items, children’s games and crafts and more. 631-584-5560

Fall Family Festival

Sunshine Prevention Center, 468 Boyle Road, Selden will host its 1st annual Fall Family Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with vendor tables—crafts, business and agency exhibitors, fun activities, including bouncy houses, raffles and silent auction items—all in the name of “fun for a cause.” Rain date is Oct. 15. 631-476-3099 

Latin Heritage Festival

In celebration of Latin Heritage Month, the Art League of Long Island, 107 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills hosts the 2nd annual LatinX Heritage Festival from 10 am. to 5 p.m. Enjoy a gallery show featuring NY Latinx Artists, a panel talk with Latinx Leaders, multicultural vendor market and live entertainment. 631-462-5400

Christmas in October Craft Fair – This event has been moved to Oct. 21

The annual Christmas in October Village Craft Fair will be held on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 100d craft vendors, live music, food trucks, pumpkins, mums, hot cider and donuts. Free admission. Rain date is Oct. 21. 631-846-1459

Miller Place Country Fair – This event has been postponed to October 28 and 29

The Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society will host its annual Country Fair on the grounds of the William Miller House, 75 North Country Road Miller Place today and Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This fun event will feature historic re-enactments , live music, historic walking tours, a traveling wilderness, museum, and more. $10 donation includes a tour of the historic William Miller House (c. 1720). Call 631-476-5742 or visit www.mpmshistoricalsociety.org.

St. Thomas Car Show & Fall Fair – This event has been canceled 

St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown presents its annual St. Tom’s Car Show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will also feature a Fall Fair with vendors, basket raffles, food, pumpkin patch and music from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission. 631-265-4520

Fall Harvest Festival – This event has been postponed to Oct 28

Join the Church on the Sound, 335 Oxhead Road, Stony Brook for its annual Fall Harvest Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lots of activities for the whole family! Free. Call 631-941-4100.

All Souls Poetry Reading

The Second Saturdays poetry series returns to All Souls Church in Stony Brook via Zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. Featured poet will be Herb Wahlsteen followed by an open reading. All are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, please call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through the All Souls website.

Health and Wellness Fair – This event has been postponed to January 20, 2024

The Town of Brookhaven will sponsor a Health and Wellness Fair at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The fair will feature representatives from the healthcare industry who will provide valuable information about health insurance, healthcare law and health services available to Brookhaven Town residents. Free. 631-451-TOWN

Vintage European Car Show

Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook hosts the 18th annual Vintage European Sports Car & Motorcycle Display on the front lawn from noon to 4 p.m. with music by The Barking Men and homemade baked goods, pies and mums for sale. Free admission. Rain date is Oct. 15. 516-639-4308

CommUniversity Day – This event has been moved indoors to the Wang Center

Rescheduled from Sept. 23. Enjoy a festival of fun and discovery for all ages at Stony Brook University’s annual CommUniversity Day at the Academic Mall from noon to 4 p.m. with health screenings, Teddy Bear Clinic, fun crafts, duck race, food court, community art projects, giveaways and much more. Free admission. Held rain or shine. www.stonybrook.edu/CommUniversity

Harvest Days on the Farm

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, E. Setauket invites the community to its Harvest Days on the Farm weekend today and Oct. 15 from noon to 4 p.m. with hay rides, pumpkin picking, pumpkin painting, visits with the farm animals, live music, the Big Swing and children’s acitivities. $10 adults, $8 children and seniors. 631-689-8172

Tesla Expo 

Join the Tesla Science Center, 5 Randall Road, Shoreham for a Tesla Expo from 3 to 9 p.m. A celebration of Nikola Tesla’s life, works, and enduring legacy, the event will delve into the fascinating world of this remarkable innovator and inspire the future generations with exciting exhibits, performances, and presentations. The evening will be topped with a dramatic drone light show dedicated to Nikola Tesla and Wardenclyffe. For ticket information, visit www.teslasciencecenter.org.

Old Burying Ground tour

Join the Huntington Historical Society for an Old Burying Ground  walking tour at 4 p.m. Established soon after the Town’s 1653 founding, Huntington’s earliest public burying ground features stunning folk art and beautiful epitaphs honoring Huntington’s residents and rich history. Tour begins at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main St., Huntington .Tickets are $15 adults, $5 children. For reservations, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Book signing with Dee Snider

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook welcomes Twisted Sister’s Dee Snider for a book signing event at 6 p.m. Snider will sign copies of his new book Frats. The book will be on sale at the event. Regular admission prices apply; meet Dee as part of your admission. Enjoy viewing the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame  exhibits throughout the day. 631-689-5888

A Night of Laughs

In partnership with Governor’s Comedy Clubs, the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St. Smithtown will present  a Godfathers of Italian Comedy Night at 8 p.m. Featuring stand-ups Elyse DeLucci, Joe Moffa, Debbie D’Amore and Tony Dabas. $45 per person includes two drinks. www.smithtownpac.org

Sunday 15

Cirque Italia in Lake Grove

See Oct. 12 listing.

Miller Place Country Fair

See Oct. 14 listing.

Harvest Days on the Farm

See Oct. 14 listing.

Oktoberfest 5k Run/Walk

Join the Stony Brook Rotary for its annual Oktoberfest 5k Run/Walk at The Bench Bar & Grill, 1095 Route 25A, Stony Brook at 10 a.m. Registration at 8:30 a.m. German beers, food, live music by Alternate Fred and fun for all ages to follow. To sign up, visit www.thebenchbar.com.

Still Cruisin’ Car Club Show

AMVETS Post 48, 660 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma hosts the Still Cruisin’ 1st annual Fall Car Show on Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vintage car show benefitting the AMVETS with a slow drag, muffler rap, and more. Donations accepted. Rain date Oct. 22. 631-732-1231

Penn Fabricators Car Show

Penn Fabricators presents its annual judged Let the Good Times Roll car show at 30 Platinum Court in Medford from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Co-hosted by The Fabulous 50s & 60s, the event will feature vendors, raffles, and music. Rain date is Oct. 22. $20 per vehicle, $5 for spectators. 631-484-2807

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a Seashore Circular hike from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Walk through fields and woods on your way to Caumsett’s seashore, aabout 4.5 miles, bring drinking water. Adult program. $4 per person. Advance reservations required by calling 631-423- 1770.

House Tour & Antique Car Show 

Step back in time with the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society as they present an Antique Car Show and a tour of the Fitz-Greene Hallock Homestead, 2869 Pond Road, Lake Ronkonkoma from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a 50/50 raffle and basket auction. $5 donation. 631-588-7599

Family Fun Fall Festival

Suffolk Y-JCCC, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack will hold their annual fall festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a petting zoo, inflatables, pumpkin picking and decorating, mini golf, climbing wall, arts and crafts, face painting and much more. $10 suggested donation. 631-462-9800

Huntington Apple Festival

The annual Apple Festival is back on the grounds of the Dr. Daniel Kissam House, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from noon to 4 p.m., courtesy of the Huntington Historical Society. Enjoy traditional games, seasonal crafts, live music, fall foods, house tours and historical demonstrations by costumed interpreters. The Museum Shop will also be open. Free admission. 631-427-7045

Fall Muster at the Arsenal

The Huntington Militia will present a Fall Muster at the Huntington Arsenal, 425 Park Avenue, Huntington during the Huntington Apple Festival from noon to 4 p.m. See history come to life as the militia recreates a typical 1775 militia muster at the Arsenal and Village Green. See musket and cannon firings, 18th century crafts, trades, music and cooking. Free. 631-223-8017

Irish Tea Auction and Raffle

The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 8/9 invites the community to their 12th annual Irish Tea Auction and Raffle at 2 p.m. at the AOH Division Hall, 80 Magnolia Drive, Selden. Please wear your prettiest hat and bring your favorite tea cup. $20 per person. For tickets, call 631-698-4940.

Fall Rummage Sale

Sisterhood of Temple Beth El, 660 Park Ave., Huntington will hold a Fall Rummage Sale today from 2 to 5 p.m. and Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Bag Day – Everything you can fit in one of supplied bags for $10) featuring clothing, linens/towels, jewelry, small household goods, tools, toys, art, and more. 631-421-5835 x200 | www.tbeli.org

Italian Heritage Lecture

As part of its Living History Series, Celebrate St. James will present a lecture on Italian Heritage with David Setteducati at the former Calderone Theater, 176 Second St., St. James from 2 to 4 p.m. Celebrate Italian heritage with a musical and visual journey. Tickets are $25, $20 members at www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Ridotto Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto concert titled Mozart and Brahms. The Ensemble of the Jeunes Virtuoses de New York performs Brahms’ magnificent Sextet Op. 18 and Mozart’s Quintet for Strings No.3 KV 515, in this season’s opening concert. Tickets are $35 adults $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. For reservations, call 631-385-0373 or email [email protected].

Sunday Street Concert

WUSB-FM’s Sunday Street concert series continues at the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook with The Songs of Jimmy Webb in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 5 p.m. Featuring: Gene Casey, Caroline Doctorow, Andrew & Cole Fortier, Delaney Hafener, Claudia Jacobs, Brian Kachejian, Ray Lambiase, Pete Mancini, and Tom Moranvening. Tickets are $20 in advance at www.sundaystreet.org or $25 at the door (cash only).

Paranormal Tour at Sweetbriar

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown hosts a Paranormal Tour with a ghost hunt and owl encounter from 6 to 9 p.m. Demonstrations will include a quick introduction to our team followed by a rotation of stations learning different types of theories, how to use equipment, a paranormal investigation on the property, and a raffle. Cost $60 per person. Participation is limited to 13 and older. Register at www.sweetbriarncorg.

Monday 16

TVHS October Lecture 

Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket at 7 p.m. with Our Island’s Story: The Natural History of Long Island with Dr. Tara Rider. This talk will discuss the features that make Long Island’s geology distinctive and have shaped the peoples who have inhabited this island. From salt marshes and cranberry bogs to hardwood forests and the Hempstead Plains, our Island has been continuously being reshaped and the landscape influences our society today. Free and open to all. To register, visit www.tvhs.org/lecture-series. 631-751-3730

SHS Fall Lecture – just added!

Smithtown Historical Society continues its Fall Lecture series at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St. Smithtown at 7 p.m. with  Long Island Graveyards and Cemeteries. Robert von Bernewitz, Smithtown native and graveyard expert, will present an overview of the types of burial sites… a look at burial markers from the early folk art stone cutters to present day laser etching and information about notable people buried on Long Island. He has visited and photographed over 350 sites on Long Island and will showcase local gravesites in our area. Light refreshments to be served. All lectures are free and open to the public! 631-265-6768.

Sound Beach Civic Meeting

The Sound Beach Civic Association will hold a Meet the Candidates Night at the Sound Beach Firehouse, 152 Sound Beach Blvd., Sound Beach at 7:30 p.m. Invited are candidates for Suffolk County Executive, Town of Brookhaven Supervisor, and TOB Highway Superintendent. For more information call 631-744-6952.

Adele tribute concert

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with an Absolute Adele Tribute at 8 p.m. Jennifer Cella delivers a stunningly accurate portrayal of the British songstress and pop icon, and only sings her songs but talks to the audience, explains the origins and backstories to the songs, just as Adele interacts with her audiences at her concerts. Tickets are $45. 631-261-2900, www.engemantheater.com.

Tuesday 17

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert by Joe DePiola featuring selections of cabaret music. in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Expect to dance. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Volunteer Fair

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Volunteer Fair from 4 to 6 p.m. Drop in to meet representatives from different organizations who will discuss local volunteer opportunities for a variety of ages. No registration required 631-928-1212.

The Travel Presentation Club

The Travel Presentation Club will meet at Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket at 7 p.m. John Colatosti will make a presentation entitled “Travel around the world in 80 days.” All are welcome. Please contact [email protected] for further information.

Wednesday 18

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

Cruise Nights are back at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River from 5 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday through Oct. 25. Check out the fine array of classic and coveted automobiles from car enthusiasts from across Long Island in The Shoppes parking lot. 631-929-3500

Gathering Time in Concert CAC

Fock-rock harmony trio Gathering Time is the featured act during the monthly Hard Luck Café concert series at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 to 10 p.m. Co-presented with the Folk Music Society, an open mic, for which sign-up is at 6:30 p.m., precedes the concert. Tickets are $20, $15 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Thursday 19

Garden Club Flower Show

Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn will host the Centerport Garden Club’s Small Standard Flower Show “Bewitched” to celebrate the season today from 2 to 8 p.m. and Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Suggested donation is $5. 516-527-0517

Film

‘Between the Rains’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues with a screening of Between the Rains at John F. Kennedy Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. Documenting the Turkana-Ngaremara community as they contend with prolonged drought, this visually stunning coming-of-age story follows a young, orphaned man’s journey to adapt to radically changing climate conditions in Northern Kenya. Followed by a Q&A with guest speakers Andrew Harrison Brown via Zoom and Dr. Dino Martins, CEO of the Turkana Basin Institute in person. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffersondocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

‘The Prom’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off its 53rd season with The Prom from Sept. 16 to Oct. 21. As the lights dim on four fading Broadway stars, they wildly seek the spotlight. Courting the controversy surrounding a small-town Indiana prom, the quartet invades a community that wants to keep the party straight. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors, $20 students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Rent’ 

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Jonathan Larson’s Rent from Sept. 16 to Oct. 22. Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, the groundbreaking musical follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians — Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, Benny and Mark — struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org. 

‘Beautiful’

Main stage theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical now extended to Nov. 5. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing success with Tapestry, the show takes you back to where it all began–and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” and many more. This Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning show is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget. Tickets start at $80. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Antigone Now: A Short Drama’

The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Antigone Now: A Short Drama by Melissa Cooper in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. In the midst of a bombed-out city still feeling the aftershocks of war, the rebellious and intense Antigone defies her uncle to bury her disgraced brother. This contemporary response to the myth of Antigone brings powerful, modern prose to an ancient and universal story. *Mature Content  General admission: $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. For tickets call 631-451-4163.

‘An Inspector Calls’

Minstrel Players, Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport presents J.B. Priestley’s An Inspector Calls from Oct. 14 to 22. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 516-361-7232 or email [email protected].

Class Reunions

•Save the date! Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].

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Follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Engeman Theater to see 'The Wizard of Oz.' Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater

PROGRAMS

Pumpkin Fun

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, E. Setauket continues its children’s workshops with Pumpkin Fun on Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to noon. Try some pumpkins practically every way. Decorate them, eat them, play pumpkin games and help carve them. Children will leave with a decorated pumpkin. $55 per child. To register, call 631-689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

Tails, Trails and Treats

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for Tails, Trails, and Treats, a fun Halloween afternoon for children ages 2 to 7 years old, on Oct. 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. Kids can enjoy close encounters with animals, a ghostly garden, games, and a special puppet enchanted trail. Rain date is Oct. 15. Tickets are $15 per child, $5 adults at www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts A Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Mondays including Oct. 16 and Oct. 23 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008

Halloween!

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program titled Halloween! on Oct. 19 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a caregiver will enjoy short walks, story time, animal visitors and a craft. $4 per child. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

Skull Scavenger Hunt

In anticipation of Halloween, the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a Skull Scavenger Hunt now through Oct. 22. Hunt for papier-mache skulls around the museum in this seasonal, spooky scavenger hunt. Find them all and win a prize! Free with admission. Members free. No registration needed. Gallery hours are Thursday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 631-367-3418.

THEATER

‘The Wizard of Oz’

Children’s theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with The Wizard of Oz through Nov. 5. After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, Dorothy Gale teams up with a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodsman, and a Cowardly Lion to find the mighty Wizard of Oz who can send her home. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘A Kooky Spooky Halloween’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents A Kooky Spooky Halloween, a merry musical about a ghost who’s afraid of the dark, from Oct. 7 to 21. Recently graduated spirit Abner Perkins is assigned to the Aberdeen Boarding House — known for its spectral sightings and terrific toast. Here, Abner finds himself cast into a company of its wacky residents. When his secret is revealed, he is forced to leave his haunted home and set-off on a quest with his newly found friends. All tickets are $12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

A Halloween Princess Party

You are invited to a special Halloween Princess Party at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown Performances will be held on Oct. 21 at 2 p.m., Oct. 22 at 11 a.m., Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. and Oct. 29 at 11 a.m.  Learn about Halloween traditions from different kingdoms and meet new friends. Be sure to wear your best princess attire OR your Halloween costume — this non-scary experience is a royal trick-or-treat! *Please note that this is a theatrical experience and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org or call 1-800-595-4849.

FILM

‘Hocus Pocus’

‘Hocus Pocus’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Hocus Pocus on Oct. 15 at noon. After moving to Salem, Mass., teenager Max, his sister Dani and their new friend, Allison accidentally free a coven of evil witches who used to live in the house. Now, with the help of a magical cat, the kids must steal the witches’ book of spells to stop them from becoming immortal. Rated PG. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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Alejandro Vargas-Diaz

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Oct, 11 that Alejandro Vargas-Diaz, 41, of Port Jefferson, was sentenced to 23 years to life in prison plus five years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty in July to Murder in the Second Degree and other related charges, for the 2018 fatal shooting of 27-year-old Albert Luis Rodriguez-Lopez.

“This sentence should be a warning to all those who think they could escape responsibility for murder simply by fleeing the jurisdiction,” said District Attorney Tierney. “Law enforcement in Suffolk County does not forget. Your crimes will catch up to you and you will be held responsible for your actions. This defendant’s prison sentence attests to that.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s statements during his guilty plea allocution, on July 22, 2018, Vargas-Diaz and the victim got into an argument inside a pool hall in Port Jefferson. During the argument, the victim punched Vargas-Diaz in the face, knocking him to the ground. A short time later, Vargas-Diaz ambushed the victim inside the pool hall, and shot the victim in the back, neck, and shoulder. The victim, a father of three and resident of Selden, died at the scene. Vargas-Diaz immediately fled and absconded from New York state.

One month after the murder, members of Suffolk County Police Department found the murder weapon, a 9 mm pistol, hidden in a tree at the Setauket Port Jefferson Greenway Trail.

On June 18, 2021, nearly three years after the fatal shooting, Vargas-Diaz was arrested by members of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office in Florida after a tip to crime stoppers. Vargas-Diaz was extradited back to Suffolk County on November 11, 2021, to be arraigned on the charges related to the murder.

On July 24, 2023, Vargas-Diaz pleaded guilty before Acting Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Steven A. Pilewski, to Murder in the Second Degree, a Class A violent felony, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, a Class C violent felony.

On October 11, 2023, Justice Pilewski sentenced Vargas-Diaz to 23 years to life in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision. He was represented by Christopher Brocato, Esq.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Elena Tomaro of the Homicide Bureau and Carlos J. Benitez II of the Major Crime Bureau, with investigative assistance from the Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad and Sergeant Norberto Flores of the Internal Affairs Unit.

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