CLOSE

Yearly Archives: 2024

by -
0 1009
1 of 19
Tony Butera and Company in a scene from 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
A scene from Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three
The cast of Theatre Three's 'The Producers'. Photo by Courtney Gilmore/Theatre Three

By Julianne Mosher

Nobody does camp better than Theatre Three. This time with their latest production of Mel Brooks’ The Producers, the Port Jefferson-based venue succeeds, yet again, with a phenomenal production of the hysterical musical that is bound to offend everyone and anyone in the best way possible.

Adapted from Mel Brooks’ 1967 film of the same name, the story follows two producers who scheme to get rich fast by fraudulently overselling interests in a Broadway musical they’re seeking to fail. Plot twist … it’s a smash hit, much to their dismay.

Theatre Three’s production is just as good as the latest Broadway revival (latest being 2001) which starred Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. The cast and crew outdid themselves with every detail — from the constant costume and wig changes courtesy of Ronald Green III (and there are quite a few) to Randall Parson’s scenic sets that switch between the office of Max Bialystock (Scott Hofer) and Leo Bloom (Tony Butera) to the rooftop of Nazi-turned playwright Franz Leibkind (Evan Teich). 

Yes, a Nazi. Like I said, this play is going to offend. 

Hofer and Butera in the lead roles of the producers shine on stage, again, on the same level that the show’s former Broadway legends bore in the past.

With several dozen different roles — it’s a Mel Brooks show, so of course it’s going to be chaotic — every person who enters stage right and left are fantastic with an ensemble cast that literally does it all. The singing is master level, the choreography is impressive and you’ll be laughing as soon as the curtain opens during the first number, “It’s Opening Night.”

After Bialystock and Bloom find the most offensive musical out there, Springtime for Hitler, they need to find financial backers. Bialystock, a Casanova to the wealthy elderly, uses his charm on widowers while Bloom meets the beautiful and talented Ulla (Brittany Lacey) who becomes the main female lead in the play they’re hoping fails … as well as Bloom’s love interest. 

The next stop is to get the worst director out there — Roger De Bris (Ryan Nolin), a flamboyant failing director with his long-term, life “roommate,” Carmen Ghia (Jim Sluder). While Nolin and Sluder play near-deadbeats in the theater industry, both have remarkable talent in real life.

Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the three-hour-long show is so good you want to sit through it again and again. You’ll be bound to find something new at every showing.

So, like I mentioned earlier, Theatre Three does campy musicals extremely well. “When You Got It, Flaunt It,” right? And the only advice I have moving forward is to continue and “Keep It Gay” with all that talent on stage.

—————————————-

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents The Producers through June 22. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children (ages 5 to 12) and Wednesday matinees. Please Note: Contains adult humor and situations. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

See preview here.

by -
0 1068
Carol Gomes with NYS Sen. Anthony Palumbo at Senate Women of Distinction event in Albany. Photo courtesy Office of Anthony Palumbo

State Sen. Anthony Palumbo (R-New Suffolk) proudly announced Carol Gomes as the 2024 New York State Woman of Distinction for the 1st Senate District at this year’s annual New York State Senate Women of Distinction event at the state capitol.

“Today marks a celebration of extraordinary dedication and leadership in health care,” Palumbo said. “It is my great privilege to honor Carol Gomes as my 2024 New York State Woman of Distinction.”

On Tuesday, May 14, Gomes of Mount Sinai, joined Palumbo and guests at the New York State Senate in Albany for her recognition. As chief executive officer of Stony Brook University Hospital, Gomes has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to excellence in health care.

“It is an honor and privilege to stand beside the many accomplished women leaders in New York State for this prestigious recognition,” Gomes said.

With over 35 years of experience, Gomes has played a pivotal role in elevating Stony Brook University Hospital to its status as Long Island’s premier academic medical center. Her leadership as CEO and COO has propelled the hospital to new heights of innovation and patient care.

Under Gomes’ guidance, Stony Brook Medicine completed its largest expansion project in 2019, including the opening of the Medical and Research Translation, Stony Brook Children’s and Hospital Pavilion. Her strategic vision and operational excellence have positioned Stony Brook University Hospital as a beacon of cutting-edge health care delivery.

“Carol Gomes’ remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication make her a true inspiration to us all,” Palumbo said. “Her leadership in health care has touched countless lives, and her commitment to excellence sets a standard for others to follow.”

As a recipient of numerous leadership awards, including recognition from the American Society of Clinical Pathology and recipient of the American College of Healthcare Executives Award of Distinction, Gomes’ impact extends far beyond the walls of Stony Brook University Hospital. Her leadership in sustainability efforts and commitment to quality care have earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.

“Her contributions to health care in our community and beyond are immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” Palumbo said.

by -
0 681
1 of 3
Front row, from left, Deputy Director of Water Quality & Lab Services Chris Niebling, Director of Water Quality & Lab Service Thomas Schneider, CEO Jeffrey Szabo, and Chairman Charles Lefkowitz; back row, from left, SCWA employees Joseph Coppola, Christian Iniguez Ulloa, Janet Klug and Erdal Kadioglu. Photo courtesy of SCWA
Front row, from left, Deputy Director of Water Quality & Lab Services Chris Niebling, Director of Water Quality & Lab Service Thomas Schneider, CEO Jeffrey Szabo, and Chairman Charles Lefkowitz; back row, from left, SCWA employees Joseph Coppola, Christian Iniguez Ulloa, Janet Klug and Erdal Kadioglu. Photo courtesy of SCWA
SCWA's Supervisor of Receiving Erdal Kadioghu tours the new lab expansion with SCWA Chairman Charles Lefkowitz. Photo courtesy of SCWA

The Suffolk County Water Authority celebrated Drinking Water Week (May 5 to 11) with the opening of a new expansion of its state-of-the-art laboratory. The expansion will support SCWA’s mission of providing its customers with high quality drinking water.

SCWA’s water quality testing laboratory is recognized as one of the top groundwater laboratories in the nation. With the 191,047 tests performed last year producing 1.7 million results, it is at the front line of ensuring that SCWA is delivering high quality water. With a growing number of contaminants that water providers are required to test for, SCWA began an expansion of its laboratory in 2023.

The new area consolidates the collection of samples collected from SCWA’s public supply system around Suffolk County and distributes them throughout the laboratory so testing can occur for pesticides, herbicides, emerging contaminants, bacteria, metals and many other compounds. It also provides ample room within its existing laboratory to prepare for the future testing requirements. It is the laboratory’s largest expansion since it moved to its current location in Hauppauge in 1994.

SCWA Chairman Charlie Lefkowitz cut the ribbon on the new expansion, remarking “We are so proud of our state-of-the-art laboratory and the staff that makes it the finest in the nation. Wherever I go, I always talk about its importance so our customers will know the rigor and attention that goes into making sure their drinking water is of the highest quality. This expansion sets us up for the future and I am thrilled to be here to celebrate it.”

by -
0 750
GREAT SCOTT! Catch a screening of 'Back to the Future' at the Cinema Arts Centre on May 26.
PROGRAMS

Books in the Barn

In partnership with the Smithtown Library, the Smithtown Historical Society will hold a  special Storytime event for children ages 3 to 5 years old with a parent/caregiver at the Franklin Arthur Barn, 245 E. Main St., Smithtown on May 24 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Come listen to stories about farms animals and then visit the chickens, bunnies, sheep, ponies, and barn cats. Free. Registration required by calling 631-360-2480, ext. 196.

Memorial Day Flag Craft

Celebrate Memorial Day at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor by making your own flag craft on May 24 and May 27 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Free with admission to the hatchery of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 5 to 12. 516-692-6768

Owl Prowl Friday

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown hosts an Owl Prowl on May 24 from 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the Center’s resident owls and then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and call some owls. Meet behind the main house and check in. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $15 per person, Advance reservations required by visiting www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Crafternoon at the Library

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket hosts a Crafternoon on May 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Stop by for fun and games! There will be a bunch of board games for you to play with. Perfect for families with children ages 4 to 12. No registration required. Bring a friend! Questions? Email [email protected].

Wildlife Wonders

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents Wildlife Wonders: Superheroes on May 25 from 10 to 11 a.m. Sweetbriar’s experienced educators help open up the wonders of the natural world for children ages 2 to 4 through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more.  $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Turtle Celebration at the Hatchery

In honor of World Turtle Day, join the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery for a Turtle Celebration on May 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day will include a Turtle Encounters workshop at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; turtle feeding demonstration at noon; and a craft and scavenger hunt all day. Activities are free with admission to the hatchery of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 5 to 12. 516-692-6768

Art in the Barn

Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents Art in the Barn, storytime and hands-on art projects for pre-schoolers on May 25 and June 1 at 11 a.m. $15 per child, $13 members. To register, visit waltwhitman.org/events.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on May 27 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Flower Power

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Tiny Tots class, Flower Power, on May 30 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent or caregiver will enjoy short walks, stories, dances, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per person. $4 per child. 631-269-4333.

THEATER

‘The Mystery of the Missing Ever After’

“Where in the world is our happy ending?” Stories collide and mysteries abound as three great princesses come together to solve The Mystery of the Missing Ever After at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from May 25 to June 15. A slipper, a spinning wheel, and a red, red rose are all clues in this hilarious new musical! All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Seussical the Musical’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its children’s theater with Seussical the Musical from June 1 to June 30. “Oh the Thinks You Can Think!” Dive into the colorful world of Dr. Seuss as The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who sets off to save a speck of dust containing The Whos from destruction. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, imagination, loyalty, and community are challenged and emerge victorious. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

FILM

‘Back to the Future’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Back to the Future on May  26 at noon. Marty McFly is thrown back into the 1950s when an experiment by his eccentric scientist friend Doc Brown goes awry. Traveling through time in a modified DeLorean car, Marty encounters young versions of his parents and must make sure that they fall in love or he’ll cease to exist. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

by -
0 986
Huntington YMCA hosts its annual Memorial Day Weekend Carnival from May 24 to 27.
Ongoing

Flip Circus at Whitman Shops

Flip Circus heads to the Walt Whitman Shops, 160 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station from May 17 to May 29. Experience the magical moments under red and white big top with trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers and more! Showtimes are Monday to Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. For tickets visit www.flipcircus.com.

Smith Haven Mall Carnival

The Wonderland Midway Carnival has set up shop at the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove through May 27 with rides, games, prizes and food. Hours are May 23 and 24 from 5 to 10 p.m., May 25 and 26 from 2 to 10 p.m. and May 27 from 5 to 10 p.m. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. $40 unlimited ride wristbands. 631-724-1433

Thursday May 23

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road Stony Brook will host a Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. 631-655-7798

Goat & Alpaca Yoga

The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St. Smithtown presents two Goat & Alpaca Yoga workshops tonight (5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.) with Steppin’ Out Ponies and Petting Zoo. Tickets are $35 at www.eventbrite.com. 631-265-6768

Hangoutology at The Jazz Loft

It’s ‘Hangoutology and Mixology’ as the Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook explores the science of sound and cocktails at the Loft’s Coal Bin speakeasy at 7 p.m. Jazz lovers can enjoy some crafty cocktails and vintage music from the 1930’s to 1960’s. Jazz Loft Founder Tom Manuel will be spinning rare unreleased, master acetates and shaking up some extraordinary libations. For ages 21 and older. Tickets are $100 and may be purchased at www.thejazzloft.org. 631-751-1895.

Friday May 24

What’s in the News?

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a What’s in the News? program from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Join a group discussion led by a moderator on current events from today’s headlines. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org to register.

Huntington YMCA Carnival

Huntington YMCA, 60 Main St., Huntington hosts its annual Memorial Day Weekend Carnival today from 6 to 10 p.m., May 25 and May 26 from 1 to 10 p.m., and May 27 from 1 to 6 p.m. Featuring carnvial rides, food, a magic show,  concert by Totally Taylor Swift, games and more. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Scholarship Fund for camp and program support. Free admission. For ticket ride bracelets, visit ymcali.org/carnival.

Owl Prowl Friday

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown hosts an Owl Prowl on from 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the Center’s resident owls and then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and call some owls. Meet behind the main house and check in. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $15 per person, Advance reservations required by visiting www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running improv comedy show heads to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown tonight at 8 p.m. Join them for a “Who’s Line Is It Anyway?” style improv competition between the performers. Tickets are $28. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Saturday May 25

Huntington YMCA Carnival

See May 24 listing.

Spring Plant Sale

The Shoreham-Wading River Garden Club will hold their annual Spring Plant Sale at 35 Sound Rd. Wading River from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Held rain or shine, the selection will include member-grown ferns and other perennials and annuals. Proceeds will go towards the club’s annual high school scholarships. Questions? Call 631-987-3733.

Spring Yard Sale

Yaphank Historical Society will hold their annual multi-vendor Spring Yard Sale on the grounds of the Robert & Isabella Hawkins House at 4 Yaphank Avenue, Yaphank, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a large variety of crafts, collectibles, and household items. Rain date is May 26. 631-924-4803

Drill Day at the TVHS – Just added!

The Redcoats are coming! Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket will host a Drill Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The community is invited to watch the 23rd Regiment of Foot Royal Welch Fusiliers of America practice their military drills. The company will be talking to guests, answering questions and pose for photos. Perfect for the history lovers in your family. Free. 631-751-3730

Save A Pet Adoption Event

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook hosts a pet adoption event for Save A Pet from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Grab your beach chairs and join in the fun with exciting raffles, kids crafts, live music by Diamond Dan and the 12-6 Band, refreshments and adoptable dogs. Call 631-751-7707. See more on page B6.

Spring Farm Festival

Join the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown for a Spring Farm Festival from noon to 4 p.m. Come celebrate spring and all the farm has to offer with kids crafts, pony rides, petting zoo, live music, traditional craft demonstrations, historic house tour, food and craft vendors. Rain date is May 26. Fee is $7 per person (kids under 3 free) at www.eventbrite.com or at the gate. 631-265-6768

Farmers & Artisans Marketplace

Farmingville Residents Association will host Farmers, Artisans and Friends Marketplace at Triangle Park, corner of Horseblock Road and Woodycrest Drive, Farmingville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 45 vendors selling local produce, handmade items, antiques & collectibles, flea market treasures and live music. 631-260-7411

Spring Fling Comedy Night

In partnership with Governor’s Comedy Clubs, Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown will present a Spring Fling Comedy Night at 8 p.m. Comedic line-up includes Tom Kelly, Felicia Gilespie, Debbie D’Amore and Mickey Farrow. Tickets are $40 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Sunday May 26

Huntington YMCA Carnival

See May 24 listing.

Spring Car Show & Swap Meet

Catholic Health Ampitheater at Bald Hill, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville hosts a Spring Car Show & Swap Meet with classic and collectible cars, unique custom vehicles, street rods, antiques, exotics, muscle cars, imports, vendors and cars for sale from 8 am. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10, free for ages 12 and under. www.longislandcars.com

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Lloyd Harbor for a 6-mile hike through the Eastern section of the park from 9:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Adults only. $4 per person,  $8 parking fee. Advance reservations required by calling 631-423-1770.

CSHL Walking Tour

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor will host a guided walking tour of the campus from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn about the historic and modern architecture, the Nobel legacy, and the advanced cancer, neuroscience, and plant research taking place at the lab. Fee is $7.18 per person. To register, visit www.cshl.edu. 516-367-8844

Mosaic Street Painting Festival

East End Arts presents its annual Mosaic Street Painting Festival in downtown Riverhead along Main Street and along the Peconic River with street painting, artisan and craft fair, live music, theater, drumming, dance and food trucks from noon to 5 p.m. Rain date is May 27. 631-369-2171

Ronkonkoma Street Fair

Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Memorial Day Street Fair along Hawkins Avenue in Lake Ronkonkoma from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring over 200 vendors with live entertainment, merchandise, food, children’s rides, arts and crafts. 631-963-2796

Kent Animal Shelter Fundraiser

Port Jeff Brewing Company , 22 Mill Creek Road, Port Jefferson will hold a Memorial Day Mutt Mixer, a benefit for Kent Animal Shelter, at 1 p.m. with pet trick contests, demonstrations, raffles, giveaways and more. 631-331-2959

Glenn Strange in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Glenn Strange from 3 to 4 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. For more information, call 631-689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org. 

Monday May 27

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS ARE LISTED SEPARATELY.

Huntington YMCA Carnival

See May 24 listing.

Tuesday May 28

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a special concert featuring FiZ, a guitarist and singer of pop, soul and jazz with a warm and mellowing sound, in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Wednesday May 29

Town Clerk Mobile Office

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Brookhaven Town Clark Mobile Office from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Town Clerk Kevin J. LaValle will visit to connect with Brookhaven residents, answer questions, and communicate important information including: disabled parking passes, marriage licenses/marriage officiants, birth certificates, death certificates, and dog licenses. No registration required. 631-928-1212

The Setalcott Story

The Ward Melville High School’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commitee presents A Walk Through the History of the Setalcott Nation at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket today and May 30 from noon to 7 p.m. with photographs, letters, recipes, garments. Enjoy an educational discussion with Helen Sells of the Setalcott Nation at 1 p.m. and again at 6 p.m. Free admission. 631-751-6208

Thursday May 30

The Setalcott Story

See May 29 listing.

An Evening of Jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the Interplay Jazz Orchestra in concert at 7 p.m. The 17 piece big band will be co-directed by Joe Devassy on trombone and Gary Henderson on trumpet. Ticket are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, under age 5 free. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org. 631-751-1895

St. Jude’s Benefit Concert

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a benefit concert for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital featuring The Other Irish Tenors and Guests on Thursday, May 30 at 7 p.m. Followed by an after party with beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $80 per person. Call 631-928-9100 to reserve your seat.

Theater 

‘Antigone’

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport kicks off the 35th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Antigone by Sophocles from May 3 to June 2. One of the finest examples of Greek Tragedy, Antigone follows the events of the Oedipus legend, wherein the title character displays great strength as she disobeys King Creon in an attempt to bury her brother in consecrated ground. Presented by the Carriage House Players, the show will take place in the mansion’s Spanish Revival Courtyard on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Jersey Boys’

Extended! John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents Jersey Boys, the story of Franki Valli & The Four Seasons, from March 14 to June 30. They were just 4 guys from Jersey until they sang their very first note–a sound the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a different story ­— a story that has made them a sensation all over again. Winner of the 2006 Tony© Award for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys features the top ten hits “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night).” To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘The Producers’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Mel Brooks’ The Producers from May 18 to June 22. With something to offend everyone, the hilarious show-biz hit follows the antics of a pair of scheming Broadway producers with a plan to put on the biggest flop of all time. Featuring “If You’ve Got It, Flaunt It,” That Face,” “Keep It Gay,” and the outrageous “Springtime for Hitler,” The Producers is a side-splitting musical bliss. Contains adult humor and situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B5.

‘The Addams Family’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The Addams Family School Edition on June 3 and June 4 at 8 p.m.  Performed entirely by students of the John W. Engeman Studio. Tickets are $25 per person. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Romeo and Juliet’

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its 35th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Romeo and Juliet from June 7 to July 5 (No performance June 19 & 21).Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy of star crossed lovers follows two families locked in an ancient rivalry. When two children from opposing sides fall in love, they challenge the imposed norms of the time and set both families on a path to ruin. Presented by the Carriage House Players, the show will take place in the mansion’s Spanish Revival Courtyard on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Newsies’

Stop the presses! This Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit Newsies heads to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown from July 13 to Aug. 18. Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right! Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $25 students. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

by -
0 584
METRO photo

By Daniel Dunaief

Daniel Dunaief

Tis the season for the opposite of schadenfreude.

Schadenfreude, as you may know, suggests happiness at someone else’s misery. Not being a German speaker, I understand that “schaden” means “damage” or “harm” and “freude” means “joy,” or, if you prefer, is the last name of the founder of psychoanalysis, which, I guess, is either supposed to make you happy or more self aware, coupled with an “e” at the end to make it harder to spell, so that you can feel schadenfreude when someone misspells the word.

So, why, in an era when so many others are so happy to enjoy the misery of those on the other end of an ideological spectrum, is it the era of the opposite of schadenfreude?

Well, look around! You might notice people in caps and gowns, completing their journeys through an educational curriculum strewn with considerably more obstacles than most four-year periods, starting with the dislocation caused by Covid.

Students couldn’t meet their classmates, except on zoom, skype or social media. They got to know each other through the facial expressions they could see online or through the images on their screens, as some of their professors’ children played with LEGOs, their cats climbed across keyboards, or their neighbors took their daily jogs in neon colors.

These graduates endured dislocation, loneliness, and, in some cases, prolonged exposure to family members whose watchful eye and judgment they thought they were finally escaping. They remained trapped in the family fishbowl.

Uncertainty, which is, admittedly, part of life, became even greater, as they didn’t know when they could go back to normal. When, they wondered, could they take a brief nap in a biochemistry class while a professor described reactions on an overhead projector in a slightly dimmed room?

For a while, they couldn’t chat with people on the way to the dining hall or at a party or mixer, they couldn’t compare the challenges of helicopter parenting and they couldn’t wonder what it would be like to leave their home country, travel thousands of miles away, and only speak to their parents once or twice a month.

And then, slowly, the fog of the pandemic lifted, giving them a chance to see each other in person, to listen to the questions others asked, and to have those moments when they could teach or learn outside of class while enjoying a late-night pizza.

Yes, these are remarkable high school, college, graduate school and night school students. We can and should be happy for them, celebrating their resilience and determination. They learned to multitask and adapt in ways most graduates don’t endure.

As we clap for them, we might need to fight the urge to wonder “what about me?” Or, perhaps, to think “What was hard about school when I went?” or, if perhaps “I could have been a doctor, except for the science part.” (Thanks to Woody Harrelson in the movie “Doc Hollywood” for that line).

Yes, you had challenges, but this day and time isn’t about you. It’s about these students who not only graduated, but will also contribute to the world, realizing their dreams, the goals of their parents and/or grandparents, and their communities, who need professionals in a range of fields to contribute to society.

This is our time to shine as a part of a support system, to acknowledge, to admire, and to elevate those who will likely encounter future difficulties, knowing that they already triumphed under extreme circumstances.

Oh, and if you crave schadenfreude, people have seized on numerous other outlets for their free-floating frustrations, laughing at the disappointed voters whose candidates are no longer in the race or who seem poised for an agonizing defeat.

Graduations, however, are not a zero sum game, where you win and I lose or I win and you lose. We all win when these graduates design beautiful homes that raise the property value in our neighborhood, when they help us with legal challenges, and when they hold our hands and provide medical guidance during future health threats.

Let’s hold back on our urge to pinch them in their pictures, to put them in their place when they seem happy with themselves, or to talk about ourselves instead of them, and let’s admire them for their pothole-filled journey and wish them well in the days, months and years ahead.

by -
0 594
The Metropollitan Opera. Photo from Facebook

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief,
Publisher

As much as I enjoy living on our beautiful Island, getting away for a quick break from the predictable routine and usual scenery is a delight. This past Saturday morning, we rode into New York City ready for adventure.

Six months earlier, we had ordered tickets for the matinee performance of the new opera at the Met, “The Hours,” a story about three women in different eras and locations, that takes place in a single day. 

Based on the Pulitzer prize-winning novel and the highly regarded subsequent film, the opera had won rave reviews at its premier the previous year and offered three fabulous singers, Renee Fleming, Joyce DiDonato and Kelli O’Hara in the leading roles. We figured it would be worth the trip just to hear all three on the same stage.

It was.

The plot uses Virginia Woolf’s novel, “Mrs. Dalloway,” as the thread that ties the three women together, although they don’t meet until the end. DiDonato as Woolf is writing the novel in a London suburb in 1923, O’Hara as Laura is reading it in 1949 in Los Angeles, and Fleming as Clarissa in Manhattan at the end of the century is reenacting the story.

The women have much in common. At various times, as the playbill notes, they are rapturous, fearful, desperate but always accepting. And the music carries and amplifies the story, as the times and places flow back and forth.

There was a light rain as we emerged from the opera house and found a place to eat supper. It was a leisurely meal as we marveled at what was coming next. At the time we had ordered tickets for “The Hours,” we noted that the evening performance was to be “Carmen,” which just happens to be my favorite opera.

Reasoning that we had much  cultural enrichment to make up for due to the losses forced on us by COVID-19, we splurged on tickets for that opera as well. So after we ate, we returned to the opera house for the evening attraction.

Two operas in one day!

Yes, we survived, although we were a bit woozy when it was all over, especially since Bizet’s “Carmen” is one of the longer operas. Stimulating but disappointing to us was the transfer of this classic 19th century opera set alongside a cigarette factory and a military base in Spain to a modern American truck depot in the industrial Midwest.

The plot was unchanged. “Don Jose, a naive soldier who is seduced by the wiles of the fiery gypsy Carmen, abandons his childhood sweetheart and deserts from his military duties, yet loses Carmen’s love to the glamorous [bullfighter] Escamillo, after which Don Jose kills her in a jealous rage,” is a quick synopsis from Wikipedia.

But instead of the bullring, we have a rodeo, and conspicuously missing are the exotic settings in the mountains and especially the seductive dance on the table at the tavern serving as a hideout for the gypsy smugglers.

Nonetheless, the music, well-known even as background to Saturday morning TV cartoons for early rising youngsters, is so forceful and the story so dramatic that by the later acts, the longstanding appeal of this opera again captivated us, and we left happy.

Using our one free night from our loyalty credit card points, we had arranged to sleep at a nearby hotel in NYC. As you might imagine, after all that operatic action, we slept exceedingly well. We found a good spot for breakfast the next morning; actually it was more like brunch. 

Stopping only to pick up some NYC bagels, we returned refreshed and thrilled to be back. Our neighborhood looked newly washed and appealing. As much as it is enjoyable to have a break from our normal routines, interestingly it is even more satisfying to come home. And the magic of live music continues to play in our heads.

by -
0 855
Steven Reid

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on May 22 that Steven Reid, 27, of Calverton, was sentenced to 14 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision, after pleading guilty to attempted murder, assault, and other related charges, for opening fire at a candlelight vigil in Bellport in July 2023, and for his unprovoked attack on a corrections officer in December 2023, while he was in custody.

“This defendant’s brazen actions at a candlelight vigil followed by his violent attack on a corrections officer show a blatant disregard for the safety of others and the rule of law,” said District Attorney Tierney. “My office will continue to pursue justice relentlessly to ensure the safety and security of our community.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on July 6, 2023, more than 100 people gathered in Bellport to celebrate the life of a community member who had died in a motorcycle accident days before. At the end of the candlelight vigil, Reid became involved in a physical altercation with another man who attended the vigil.

During the altercation, Reid pulled out a gun and shot the man at point-blank range in the upper right thigh. The bullet shattered the man’s femur, passed through his leg, and lodged into his right

shin. Vigil attendees placed a tourniquet on the man’s leg and rushed him to the hospital where he underwent emergency orthopedic surgery to replace his shattered femur with metal rods and pins.

Minutes later, Reid followed the dispersed crowd and opened fire on another group of vigil attendees and shot at one man from close range. That victim suffered four gunshot wounds, including gunshot wounds to his back, shoulder, and both of his legs. Immediately thereafter, Reid opened fire at a female two times and then shot at another group of people, including a woman and a nine-year old boy, as they were running towards a nearby residence.

Reid fled Suffolk County and was apprehended in North Carolina. In September 2023, Reid was brought back to Suffolk County to face charges. On December 19, 2023, while in custody at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility, Reid assaulted a corrections officer without provocation.

On April 19, 2024, Reid pleaded guilty before Supreme Court Justice Anthony Senft to:

  •   Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, a Class B violent felony;
  •   Assault in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony;
  •   Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, a Class C violent felony; and
  •   Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D violent felony.

    On May 22, 2024, Justice Senft sentenced Reid to 14 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision. He was represented by the Legal Aid Society.

    This case was prosecuted by the Violent Criminal Enterprise Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Wilson Nieves of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fifth Squad, United States Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Taskforce, and the Warrant Enforcement Section and Computer Crimes Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department.

by -
0 550
1 of 2
Do you recognize this woman? Photo from SCPD
Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the woman who allegedly used a stolen credit card at a South Setauket store in March.

A woman allegedly used a credit card, which had been reported stolen by a Smithtown woman, to purchase a laptop valued at $1,954 from Best Buy, located at 261 Pond Path, on March 9 at approximately 11:10 a.m. The woman fled the store in a gray minivan.

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.

by -
0 1469
Pixabay photo.
Three Village 

Budget vote: 

Yes: 2,140
No: 1,140 

Board of education election: elect three, third highest gets one-year term.

Shaorui Li – 1,976

Susan Rosenzweig – 1,970

Stanley Bak – 1,688

Amitava Das – 1,683

 

Port Jefferson 

Budget vote:

Yes: 640

No: 148

Trustee election: To elect three board of education trustees for a three-year term, July 1, to June 30, 2027. 

Tracy Zamek – 598

Traci Donnelly – 574

Michael Weaver – 563

 

Comsewogue 

Budget vote:

Yes: 540

No:  204

Trustee election. Incumbents ran unopposed:

Margaret Mitchell – 593

Richard Rennard – 543

Corey Prinz – 508             

 

Shoreham-Wading River

Budget vote:

Yes: 526

No:  125

 Board of education election, vote for two:

Jim Lauckhardt – 537

James Smith – 487

 

Miller Place 

Budget vote: 

Yes: 565

No:  170

Board of education trustee election, elect one:
Bryan Makarius – 584 
Votes for other candidates –  43     

 

Rocky Point        

Budget vote:

Yes: 846 

No:  289 

Board trustee election, vote for two: 

Michael Lisa – 599 

Stacey Lasurdo – 482

Elizabeth Diesa – 367

Shelita Watkis – 361                

Michael Sanchez – 289

Capital Reserve Fund vote:

Yes: 919 

No:  217  

Hallock Homestead Museum vote:

Yes:  787

No:   352

 

Mount Sinai 

Budget vote:

Yes: 802

No:  212

The terms are three years. Vote for two, elected at-large. 

Paul Staudt (incumbent) and Joseph Randazzo ran unopposed 

 

Hauppauge 

Budget vote:

Yes: 584

No:  278 

Board of education, two terms (three years): 

Catherine Collins – 583

Brian Michels – 574

 

Kings Park

Budget vote:

Yes: 1,046

No:     533

Board of education election: 

Kevin Johnston (incumbent) and James Lovastik ran unopposed

 

Smithtown

Budget vote:

Yes: 4,569

No:  1,722

Board of education, vote for two:

Dana Fritch (3,614) defeated Stacy Murphy (2,664) (incumbent)

Emily Cianci (3,605) defeated Karen Wontrobski-Ricciardi (incumbent) (2,669)

 

Commack

Budget vote:

Yes: 1,701

No: 400

Board of education, vote for one:

Dana Schultz – 1,047

Gus Hueber – 997

 

Middle Country 

Budget vote:

Yes: 1,578 

No: 569

Board of education, vote for three: 

John DeBenedetto – 1,568

Denise Haggerty – 1,531

Arlene Barresi – 1,501

 

Harborfields 

Budget vote:

Yes: 1,227 

No: 279 

2015 Capital Reserve Fund:

Yes: 1,217 

No:     254

Board of education’s three open seats, currently held by incumbents Susan Broderick, Eve Meltzer-Krief and Suzie Lustig (not seeking reelection):

Susan Broderick – 1,124 

Rachael Risinger – 1,053 

Eve Meltzer-Krief – 1,044

David Balistreri – 396 

Freda Manuel – 316 

 

Elwood 

Budget vote:

Yes: 652 

No:  287

To expend $500,000 in capital reserve for districtwide security enhancements and purchase of district wide maintenance and grounds vehicles.

Yes: 714

No:  213

For the board of education’s two open seats, currently held by incumbent members James Tomeo and Heather Mammolito (not seeking reelection):

James Tomeo – 717 

Walter Edwards – 620

 

Cold Spring Harbor 

Budget vote: 

Yes: 657                            

No: 186                            

Board trustees, two elected at large:

Heather Morante Young (incumbent) – 555

Mark Attalienti – 484

Scott Kaufman – 414

 

Northport-East Northport 

Budget vote:

Yes: 2,202

No:  1,536

Board of education election:

Terms are three years. Voters select two candidates among four who are running: 

Carol Taylor (incumbent) – 1,984

Michael Cleary – 1,860

Paul Darrigo – 1,601

Victoria Bento – 1,328

 

Huntington

Budget vote:

Yes: 1,059         

No:     206

Board of education, vote for three:

Theresa Sullivan (incumbent) – 882

Thomas Galvin (incumbent) – 856 

Annie Michaelian – 812

Sara Baliber – 656

Prev1...227228229...360Next Page 228 of 360
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©