Amanda Liang with the winning bridge design.
Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
Amanda Liang, a ninth grader from Paul J. Gelinas Junior High School in Setauket, won first place at the 45th annual Bridge Building Competition hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory on April 3.
The competition shows students in grades nine through 12 what it’s like to be an engineer as they attempt to design a strong bridge out of only basswood and glue with a set of challenging specifications in mind. Their structures were put to the test under a crushing machine that slowly added more and more weight from above until the bridges broke or bent more than one inch.
The event is organized by Brookhaven Lab’s Office of Educational Programs (OEP) to advance its mission to cultivate the next generation of STEM professionals.
Julia Pincott won second place for her bridge design. Photo courtesy of John Glenn High School
“I want you to imagine your future selves as professional engineers and you’re contributing something important to society,” Bernadette Uzzi, OEP’s manager for K-12 programs told students at the start of the competition. “Perhaps you’re designing a bridge, and you have to continually refine the structure to adapt to our ever-changing world, or maybe you’re here at Brookhaven involved in constructing our new Electron-Ion Collider, which is a ground-breaking machine that will unravel the mysteries of nature’s strongest force. Regardless of your future career plans, today you are engineering students and you’re part of Brookhaven’s journey.”
Uzzi also reflected on the recent bridge collapse in Baltimore: “I’m reminded why it’s so important to give students real-world, relevant experiential learning experiences like this event.”
This year, students from 14 schools around Long Island submitted 240 bridges — 193 of which met all qualifications for testing such as using a symmetrical design and weighing under 25 grams.
Bridges are ranked based on efficiency scores that are calculated from the load the bridge supports divided by the mass of the bridge — all in grams.
Liang’s design earned the top spot with an efficiency of 3,441.43.
“I looked at a bunch of old national bridges and I took a lot of inspiration from them,” Liang said, adding later, “I was really excited especially because it was my first year. I wasn’t sure how it was going to go. I didn’t expect this.”
Alexander Song and Daniel Liang, both juniors from Ward Melville High School in East Setauket, took second place and third place with efficiencies of 2,536.142 and 2,112.446, respectively.
The top two winners in Brookhaven’s regional competition qualified to compete in the International Bridge Contest on April 27 in New Philadelphia, Ohio.
Competition judges also issued an award for aesthetic bridge design to Julia Pincott, a senior at John Glenn High School in Elwood.
Some of the bridges entered into the competition. Photo from BNL
Throughout the bridge testing day, students had the chance to meet engineers from across the Lab, including longtime contest volunteers and Jordanna Kendrot, a safety engineer at the DOE-Brookhaven Site Office. Kendrot shared how in her own path to becoming a researcher, she found it was important to expand her studies beyond only engineering courses.
“It’s really about broadening your horizons and questioning the norms in engineering that will help us keep moving forward,” Kendrot said.
Amid all the bridge crushing, competition organizers tossed Brookhaven Lab and science trivia questions to students, who had a chance to win Lab merchandise for their correct answers.
Competitors tested their engineering skills in an additional STEM challenge to construct a miniature floating table. Students were also treated to a tour of the National Synchrotron Light Source II, a DOE Office of Science user facility that creates light beams 10 billion times brighter than the sun.
“This year’s bridge contest was a new experience for everyone,” STEM educator and event co-coordinator Theresa Grimaldi said. “It was the first time OEP organized this contest to be during school hours and it was such a pleasure to have the students here for the whole day, getting to know the engineers and touring the site.”
Brookhaven National Laboratory is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, visit science.energy.gov.
Isis Navarro Reyes Allegedly Sold Misbranded Adulterated Weight Loss Drugs to Customers
Without a License to Administer Such Drugs
A Shirley woman has been arrested for allegedly selling misbranded and adulterated weight loss drugs on TikTok.
According to a press release from the U.S. Department of Justice, Isis Navarro Reyes, 36, was charged with “receipt of misbranded drugs in interstate commerce, dispensing misbranded drugs while held for sale, conspiracy to introduce and deliver for introduction misbranded drugs in interstate commerce, dispensing of misbranded drugs while held for sale, and smuggling.”
As alleged in the complaint, from about November 2022 through about November 2023, Reyes using TikTok, posted dozens of videos about weight loss drugs including, but not limited to, Ozempic, Axcion, and Mesotherapy.
In her videos, REYES showcases the weight loss drugs, instructs viewers how frequently they should be used, describes how they should be taken or injected, and claims to describe her personal experiences — for example, side effects and effectiveness in causing weight loss — in detail. In several of these videos, REYES tells viewers that they can contact her via an encrypted messaging application on her cellphone (the “Cellphone”) if they would like to order the weight loss drugs that she is selling.
On about October 11, 2023, Reyes posted a video pertaining to Ozempic. In this video, Reyes demonstrates how to inject oneself with the medication and shares her experience using the drug. Toward the end of the video, she instructs viewers to contact her on the Cellphone if they are interested in having her obtain Ozempic for them. A screenshot from this TikTok post is below:
In about December 2023, a law enforcement officer acting in an undercover capacity (the “UC”) began messaging Reyes on the cellphone. From about December 2023 through about January 2024, the UC and REYES exchanged several messages concerning Reye’s supply of Ozempic and the UC’s interest in purchasing Ozempic from Reyes. On about January 7, 2024, pursuant to instructions from Reyes, the UC sent $375 to a Zelle account in the name of “Isis Reyes Navarro.” Reyes did not ask the UC to provide a prescription, and the UC did not provide one. On about January 9, 2024, Reyes dropped off a package intended for the UC at a post office located in or around Shirley, New York.
On about January 12, 2024, law enforcement received a package addressed to the UC from Reyes (the “UC Parcel”) in Manhattan. The UC Parcel contained a box containing what purported to be Ozempic. Photos of packaging containing the purported Ozempic that REYES mailed the UC are below:
All of the labeling accompanying the Ozempic in the UC Parcel was in Spanish, in violation of FDA regulations.
In about November 2022, a woman who had viewed content posted to Reyes’s TikTok account (“Victim-1”) called the Cellphone for the purpose of ordering weight loss drugs. The individual who answered Victim‑1’s call identified herself as “Isis Navarro Reyes.” In February 2023, Victim-1 purchased 30 injections of Mesofrance, an injectable weight loss drug, from REYES. Reyes mailed the Mesofrance to Victim-1’s residence in White Plains, New York. Reyes did not ask Victim-1 to provide a prescription, and Victim-1 did not provide one.
Between about February 2023 and about June 2023, Victim-1 self-administered 28 injections. In an audio message that she recorded and transmitted, Reyes provided Victim-1 with instructions on how to administer the drug. Reyes told Victim-1, among other things, to inject herself every three days. All of the labeling of the vials that contained the Mesofrance that Victim‑1 purchased from Reyes were in a language other than English, in violation of FDA regulations.
On about July 13, 2023, Victim-1 began developing lesions from administering the Mesofrance. Victim-1 sent messages to Reyes about her injuries and sent photos. In about October 2023, Victim-1’s physician diagnosed her with a mycobacterium abscessus infection, which is frequently caused by the contamination of medications, medical products, and medical devices with the mycobacterium abscessus bacterium. In about November 2023, the New York Department of Health tested one of the vials of Mesofrance that Victim-1 purchased from Reyes. The substance tested positive for mycobacterium abscessus, a species of rapidly growing, multidrug-resistant, nontuberculous mycobacteria.
Reyes, is charged with one count of smuggling, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of receipt of misbranded drugs in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison; one count of dispensing of a misbranded drug while held for sale, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison; one count of conspiracy to introduce and deliver for introduction a misbranded drug in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison; and two counts of dispensing of misbranded drugs while held for sale, each of which carry a maximum sentence of one year in prison for a total of 25 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by a judge.
FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Special Agent in Charge Fernando P. McMillan said: “Selling misbranded prescription drugs, particularly injectable products that should be sterile, in the U.S. marketplace puts all consumers’ health at risk. We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who jeopardize the public’s health by selling misbranded drugs.”
“As alleged, Isis Navarro Reyes used her social media following to sell weight loss drugs unapproved for distribution in the United States. Reyes’s alleged unlawful dispensing of these drugs caused significant, life-threatening injuries to some victims and put all of her victims in harm’s way. Recently, public interest in semaglutide and weight loss drugs has skyrocketed, and criminals have sought to take advantage of this interest for their ends. With this, the first misbranding and adulteration charges brought pertaining to semaglutide, Reyes will be held accountable for her conduct, and criminals should think twice before trying to sell weight loss drugs without a license to do so. This case makes clear that extreme caution and physician consultation should always be taken when purchasing medications, especially on social media,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams in a statement.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the New York City Police Department, the Customs and Border Protection Task Force Officers of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Special Agents and Task Force Officers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.
A WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION
Catch a performance of 'Willy Wonka' at the Brosnan Theater in Northport. The show opens May 3. Photo courtesy of Community Playhouse of Northport
PROGRAMS
First Steps in Nature
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on May 3 at 9:30 a.m. An experienced educator will lead your youngster through hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344.
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 4, 18, 25 and June 1 at 11 a.m. $15 per child, $13 members. To register, visit waltwhitman.org/events.
Me & You with Keri Wirth
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington hosts a morning concert, Me & You with Keri Wirth, at the Walled Garden on May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Rock out to original music that is funny and educational and dance your way into the sunny day. Pick up an instrument and join this wonderful Sunday morning music program. For infants to age 5. For prices and to register, visit www.caumsettfoundation.org/programs.
Glacial Erratic Hike
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Glacial Erratic Hike for ages 8 and up on May 5 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. If a huge boulder looks out of place, it might be a glacial erratic, a large piece of stone left by glaciers long ago. Venture through the park’s trails and see the glacial remnants brought to Long Island from the last Ice Age. $4 per person. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com. 631-269-4333
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 6 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008
Crafternoon at the Library
Save the date! Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a Crafternoon on May 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. Create a work of art out of recycled materials. For families with children ages 3 to 12 years old. Supervision may be needed for younger children. Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]
Bicycle Rodeo
Register now! On May 11 the Brookhaven Highway Department will host a Bicycle Rodeo at Safety Town, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville from 8 a.m. to noon. Children will learn how to safely ride their bikes in a mock-roadway, kid-sized setting. Participants are required to bring their own helmets and bicycles; both will be inspected for safety. Free but by appointment only; call 631-451-5335 to reserve your spot.
THEATER
‘Alice in Wonderland’
John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport present’s Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland from March 23 to May 12. Alice takes a tumble down an enchanted rabbit hole to an off-kilter world of mock turtles, dancing flora, punctual rabbits, and mad tea parties. Will Alice be able to find her footing in this bizarre place? More importantly, will she ever figure out how to get home?All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Willy Wonka’
Community Playhouse of Northport presents Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka at The Brosnan Theater, 158 Laurel Ave., Northport on May 3, 4 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and May 5 and 12 at 3 p.m. Character meet and greets will be from 2:15 to 2:45 p.m. at Sunday performances. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students and seniors. To order, visit www.communityplayhousenorthport.org. 631-683-8444
‘You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’
Simple Gifts Productions presents You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown at 7:30 p.m. on May 3 and 4 at First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson. This revised version is a fresh approach to the all-time 1967 classic, based on the beloved comic strip by Charles Schulz. Featuring all your favorite Peanuts characters, this charming revue of vignettes and songs is fun for the whole family (ages 4 and older). Tickets are $15 at the door or at www.simplegiftsproductions.com.
‘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.
The Stony Brook men’s lacrosse team fell to Hofstra, 11-9, on April 27 at LaValle Stadium. Nick Dupuis led the Seawolf offensive attack with a team-high five points.
The Seawolf defense held strong early, forcing two consecutive shot clock violations in the opening five minutes. Two minutes later, Hofstra broke through with two goals in 30 seconds to take a 2-0 lead with 8:58 remaining in the first. Both teams traded two goals apiece to end the opening quarter as the Pride took a 4-2 lead into the second.
Stony Brook opened the scoring in the second with a bang following a man-down goal from Christian Lowd to make it a 4-3 game. After some tough defense and clutch goalkeeping on both sides, Hofstra tallied back-to-back in the final minutes to take a 6-3 lead into the half.
The Seawolves cut the deficit to two again with a goal from CJ Harris to open the second half scoring. The Pride immediately answered with a goal less than two minutes later to take a 7-4 lead. Each team notched a goal to close the third, as Hofstra took an 8-5 lead into the fourth.
The Pride offense came out hot to open the fourth, scoring two of the quarter’s first three goals, giving them a 10-6 lead with 6:52 remaining. After an illegal body check from Hofstra, Stony Brook scored three straight man-up goals to make it a one-goal game with 2:36 remaining. The man-up offense was spearheaded by goals from Noah Armitage, Dylan Pallonetti, and the playmaking of Dupuis. Hofstra responded a little over a minute later with a goal as its defense held strong for the win.
“I’m disappointed for the seniors. It was such a large group of seniors that have been through a lot and have given us a lot,” head coach Anthony Gilardi said. “We’ve struggled all year, I think that’s been the reality. It’s kind of been the same story and we saw it again today.”
The Stony Brook University softball team beat Elon, 8-1, in the series finale on April 28 at University Field. The Seawolves honored its senior class of 10 student-athletes with a convincing win over the Phoenix to earn their fifth straight series win.
The Seawolves fell behind early, 1-0, in the second inning on a run-scoring single off of Mia Haynes.Stony Brook hit a pair of home runs in the home half of the second inning on the way to scoring four runs in the frame. Emily Reinstein opened the scoring with a two-run shot and later it was Alicia Orosco who blasted a two-run homer of her own to put Stony Brook ahead 4-1.
Saddled with a lead, Haynes began to cruise. On top of her excellence in the circle, Stony Brook’s defense put on a clinic behind her, turning two double plays to help keep Elon off the board for the remainder of the afternoon.
The Seawolves expanded their lead in the fourth inning with a pair of bases-loaded walks drawn by Corinne Badger and Julianna Sanzone. Leading 6-1, Stony Brook added two more in the fifth inning on productive outs by Orosco and Kyra McFarland. The score held for the rest of the game, as Stony Brook coasted to the 8-1 win on senior day.
“Pretty special ballgame to send our seniors off with a hard-earned win on senior day,” head coach Megan T. Bryant said. “I thought we played well in all three parts of the game and Mia was outstanding.”
Up next, the team hits the road to face North Carolina A&T in the final weekend of the regular season. The Seawolves and Aggies play a three-game set beginning on May 2 in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, I get it. It’s a shock that it’s May 1st because the new month is always a surprise.
It’s something to talk about, I suppose, and it suggests that time continues to move in the only direction we have ever experienced.
In the realm of things I can’t believe, I’d like to share a few items that range from the trivial to the surreal, without touching most of the third rails in our lives.
For starters, I can’t believe it’s over 24 years since Y2K. Remember all the hullabaloo about how every electronic system we had might fail at the start of the year 2000? People were afraid to fly, imagined that their computers would malfunction and that all manner of automated systems would get something between a computer version of the hiccups and malfunction completely. It seems like only yesterday and yet a world away that we were concerned about the year 2000.
Speaking of 2000, I remember calculating how incredibly old I’d be in 2000. And yet, here we are, 24 years, and counting, later. Gulp!
I don’t remember the first or even the last manned moon landing. I was alive, but not old enough to process any of the remarkable moments in the space program. Now, NASA is planning a manned trip around the moon next year and, in 2026, intends to send astronauts to the moon’s south pole. I’m excited to see people hopping around in lighter gravity while wearing modern spacesuits. I wonder if those outfits will have corporate logos and if the astronauts will send us live feeds from their helmet cams.
On a more personal level, I can’t believe the milestones that the next generation has passed. Our daughter graduated from college, our nephew got married, and our son will vote in the next presidential election for the first time.
Speaking of the presidential election, I can’t believe two candidates who evoke such ire, scorn and disappointment nationally are running yet again. I know we’re slowly marching towards yet another tight race between two angry older men, but I can’t help wondering why neither party and the electorates couldn’t come up with another alternative.
That doesn’t include Robert Kennedy Jr. who isn’t exactly a unifier. Even his siblings have disowned him politically, vowing to vote for President Joe Biden rather than their anti-vax relative.
On a more mundane level, I can’t believe how infrequently I have gone to the movies. From the time we started dating, my wife and I loved the movies. We’d make sure we got to the theater early, waited for overpriced popcorn and, back in the day when I could eat M&M’s and other chocolate candies, would mix candy into the bucket to create a salty-sweet movie snack.
At the end of the movie, we’d get the free popcorn refill and bring it home, where our daughter would pick at it that night or the next morning, listening to a synopsis of the film.
We still watch movies and, as readers of this column may remember, attended “Oppenheimer” in person, but we haven’t planned an evening around a trip to the movies in years.
On the many plus sides of technology, I can’t believe how much easier the logistics of life are with a phone that redirects me when I go the wrong way, that allows me to connect with friends and family all over the world, and that calls anyone in my contact list without my needing to remember a phone number or even dialing or pushing buttons. I still remember the phone numbers of some high school and college friends, not that I’d ever need them, especially since their families have either moved away or given up their land lines.
Oh, and, thanks to my sister-in-law’s efforts to go through older files in my mom’s house, I now have a collection of photos from my high school graduation and prom. I can’t believe I thought that mustache looked good. Then again, that was the age of Tom Selleck and Magnum PI. Much as I might blame the actor for my facial hair, I was more likely following the stylings of my older brother, the family trendsetter.
Scene from last year's plant fundraiser. Photo from Farmingdale State College
Scene from last year's plant fundraiser. Photo from Farmingdale State College
Scene from last year's plant fundraiser. Photo from Farmingdale State College
Scene from last year's plant fundraiser. Photo from Farmingdale State College
Celebration of Spring at Long Island’s Original Agricultural College
Calling all gardeners! Farmingdale State College (FSC) will hold its annual Plant Sale from Tuesday, May 7 to Thursday, May 9, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (daily) at the Farmingdale State College campus, located at 2350 NY-110, Farmingdale, NY 11735.
The Plant Sale will feature a wide selection of flowers, vegetables/herbs, perennials, houseplants, succulents, and tropical plants for the patio. Much of the plant material is grown on-campus by College staff and students, while the remainder is grown locally on Long Island.
The Plant Sale at Farmingdale State College is managed by the Department of Urban Horticulture and Design, a legacy program with a storied past dating back more than 100 years, when the institution opened its doors as an agricultural school.
“Over the years, the Department of Urban Horticulture & Design has developed a strong partnership with the local horticulture industry, since many local professionals complete their training at Farmingdale,” said Dr. Jonathan M. Lehrer, Chairman of the Horticulture Department.
Horticulture students learn their skills in the department’s classrooms, studios, labs, and greenhouses. Perhaps most important is the “living” classroom, the renowned Robert F. Ench Teaching Gardens. Beyond its iron gates rest 5+ acres of theme gardens that are carefully designed, planted, maintained, and treasured by students as an integral component of their training, during the semester and as part of the Summer Garden Intern Program.
The Gardens are also a source of inspiration and education for the campus and Long Island community. They are open to the public daily during the growing season.
All proceeds from the Sale are used to support Horticulture students and the Robert F. Ench Teaching Gardens. Customers are encouraged to bring their own wagon for convenience.
About Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale State College offers 46-degree programs focused on emerging, high-demand, and relevant careers to help prepare the next generation of leaders in technology, engineering, business, healthcare, science and the arts. With nearly 10,000 students, FSC is SUNY’s largest college of applied science and technology. More than half of our graduating seniors leave debt-free and 82% are employed six months after graduation or enrolled in graduate school. FSC is home to Broad Hollow Bioscience Park, which supports the development of biotech start-up companies and partners with surrounding businesses and research institutions along the Route 110 Business Corridor. Our engaging student experience, highly inclusive campus and sustained commitment to accessibility, affordability, and student support, helps make FSC one of the best values in higher education.
UNDER THE BIG TOP
Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall parking lot from May 3 to 14. Photo courtesy of Flip Circus
Thursday May 2
Crafts & Cocktails
Have you ever wondered how exactly a ship gets into a bottle? Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor to uncork the secret behind this enduring folkcraft at its Crafts & Cocktails event from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Explore examples from the museum’s Kappel Ship in a Bottle Collection up close. Then, sip a Dark & Stormy cocktail as you create your very own ship model in a jar. For adults 21+. Fee is $30 per person, $20 members. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org. 631-367-3418
Vanderbilt Lecture
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series at the Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium Theater with Save the Sound: A lecture on ecology and advocacy at 7 p.m. Conservationists Bill Lucey and Louise Harrison will give a presentation on protecting and improving the land, air, and water of the Long Island Sound region. Tickets are $10 per person at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
SCCC Spring Concert
The Music Department of Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Spring Concert featuring orchestra, guitar ensemble, the Suffolk Singers and College Choir at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, at 7 p.m. Free and open to all. No tickets required. 631-451-4163
Friday May 3
Three Village Farmers Market
The Three Village Farmers & Artisans Market kicks off its 10th season today on the grounds of the Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket from 3 to 7 p.m. Featuring over 40 vendors, food trucks, live music and more. The museum will be open for free self-guided and docent-led tours. For more information, call 631-751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.gm
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove today through May 14.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.
SCCC Spring Concert
The Music Department of Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Spring Concert featuring the Contemporary Music Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, at 7 p.m. Free and open to all. No tickets required. 631-451-4163
Saturday April 4
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
See May 3 listing.
Community Shred Day
Time for some spring cleaning! Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will hold a Community Shred Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A shredding truck from A Shred Away, Inc. will be in the library’s parking lot for on-site shredding of personal documents. There is a limit of 5 boxes or bags. Please no plastic, carbon paper, hanging files, red well folders, cardboard, newspapers, or magazines. Clips and staples are fine. 631-941-4080.
Tag and Bake Sale
Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will hold a Tag and Bake Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for homemade baked breads, cookies, cakes, plus household items, quilting supplies, garden items, electronics, furniture, books and much more. The historic church building and cemetery will be open for visitors during the sale. Rain date is May 5 from noon to 4 p.m. 631-751-0574
CHS Craft and Vendor Fair
Comsewogue High School, 565 North Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station will host its 3rd annual Community Resource Craft and Vendor Fair with over 75 vendors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Make yourself aware of what organizations have to offer you and get the assistance you need. Agencies can help with medical and dental care, housing support, mental health counseling, food support and more. Free admission. For more information, email [email protected].
Mother’s Day Workshop
Join the Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suites 6 & 9, St. James for a Mother’s Day Workshop with artist Ross Barbera from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Craft a watercolor paper cuff bracelet for your mother while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Cost is $125 and includes all materials. To register, visit theatelieratflowerfield.org or call 631-250-9009.
Community Blood Drive
Responding to the critical National need for both blood donors and firefighter volunteers, The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO), will be hosting a blood drive, a Shed the Meds event, anda volunteer firefighter recruitment information table at the LIMEHOF, 197 Main St., Stony Brook Village from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Questions? Call 631-751-2244.
Saturdays at Six Concert
All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook continues its Saturdays at Six series with a free concert by the Voyager Reed Quintet at 6 p.m. The ensemble’s mission is inspired by the golden records aboard NASA’s Voyager spacecraft. Their performances represent the intersection of a wide variety of music, particularly that of living composers, jazz and popular music, contemporary classical music, and older works made new to the reed quintet medium through transcriptions and arrangements. 631-655-7798
Sunday May 5
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
See May 3 listing.
Port Jefferson Farmers Market
The Port Jefferson Farmers Market kicks off its spring/summer season at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson today from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and continues every Sunday through Nov. 17. For more information, call 631-802-2160.
Sheep and Shawl Festival
Huntington Historical Society hosts its annual Sheep to Shawl Festival at the Kissam property, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from noon to 4 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy historic crafting demonstrations and activities, traditional music, the Huntington Militia, and more! In addition, the Kissam House Museum will be open for tours, and visitors will be able to peruse the Antiques & Collectibles Shop on the property. Free admission. 631-427-7045
Northport Art Walk
Northport Arts Coaltion presents its annual Art Walk from 1 to 5 p.m. Pick up a map at the welcome center, then enjoy a free walking tour of “galleries for a day” throughout Northport Village. Visit artists displaying and selling their work in the charming stores while musicians fill the village with melody. Rain date is May 19. www.northportarts.org.
Karen Bella in concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brookpresents a concert by Karen Bella accompanied by Teddy Kumpels from 3 to 4 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org.
Northport Library Concert
Join Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport for an afternoon concert with The Retirement Village People at 2 p.m. featuring hilarious song parodies of your favorite rock, pop, and show tunes from the 60s and 70s, featuring Stevie GB, Joe Gelish, Anita Starlite, and Les Degen. Call 631-261-6930 to register.
Jazz Loft All Stars in Concert
St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington will presents The Jazz Loft All- Stars in concert featuring Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel on cornet; Mala Waldron on piano; Dan Pugach on drums; Mike Hall on bass, and Vanessa Trouble on vocals at 5 p.m. Tickets are $30. For more information call 631-427-1752.
Monday May 6
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
See May 3 listing.
Tea with a Spot of History
Three Village Historical Society continues its Tea with a Spot of History program with Well Worn: History of Aprons at the the Old Field Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage, 207 Old Field Place, Old Field at 1 p.m. Over 600 vintage aprons will be presented by Diane Schwindt of Stirring Up History. Join them for a tea party with scones and a spot of history and enjoy the Lighthouse grounds following the program. Tickets are $20, $15 members. To register, visit www.tvhs.org. 631-751-3730
Movie Trivia Night
Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a Movie Trivia Night at 8 p.m. Try to answer 50 questions based all around film, actors and actresses, awards, and everything else associated with the world of film. Challenge like-minded film fans in a battle of wits for cash and other prizes. You can form teams, so bring some friends and work together. Feel free to come alone and play solo as well! Hosted by Dan French. Tickets are $11 per person, $7 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Tuesday May 7
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
See May 3 listing.
Farmingdale State College Plant Sale
Farmingdale State College, 2350 Route 110, Farmingdale will hold its annual Plant Sale today through May 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Plant Sale will feature a wide selection of flowers, vegetables/herbs, perennials, houseplants, succulents, and tropical plants for the patio. Much of the plant material is grown on-campus by College staff and students, while the remainder is grown locally on Long Island. All proceeds from the Sale are used to support Horticulture students and the Robert F. Ench Teaching Gardens. Customers are encouraged to bring their own wagon for convenience.
Strictly Business Trade Show
Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach hosts a Strictly Business trade show from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to network, promote and build businesses in Brookhaven and the surrounding areas. This free event is a joint initiative of the Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce, the Miller Business Resource Center and the Brookhaven Chambers of Commerce Coalition. Join over 75 vendors, discover local products and services, connect with potential customers and network with community organizations. This event is open to the public. For more information, visit www.strictlybusinesstradeshow.com.
NSJC Social Club event
North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to meet Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich (District 1) in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. The Councilmember will update the community on current activities. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737
NYS Safe Boating Course
Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a New York State Safe Boating Course tonight and May 8 from 5 to 9 p.m. Successful completion of this course earns a Boating Certificate required for boat operators and those 14+ operating a Jet Ski. Cost is $50 per person, this includes all materials and is payable in cash, check or Venmo. Students must be 10 years or older at the start of class. Register at www.cplib.org/SafeBoating.
Board‘Walk’Your Way to Wellness
Health professionals from St. Catherine of Siena Hospital will be available at Sunken Meadow State Park’s boardwalk in Kings Park tonight, May 14, 21 and 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. to discuss heart health, healthy eating, weight management, breast health, stroke prevention, skin cancer and Lyme disease prevention tips. Free blood pressure screenings and free giveaways. To learn more, call 631-870-3444.
Comedy Night at the Engeman
John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with Comedy Night at 7 p.m. Come have some laughs, enjoy some cocktails and listen to some very funny comedians! Tickets are $45. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Wednesday May 8
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
See May 3 listing.
Farmingdale State College Plant Sale
See May 7 listing.
NYS Safe Boating Course
See May 7 listing.
SBU Plant Sale Fundraiser
Stony Brook Heights Rooftop Farm at Stony Brook Hospital, 101 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will hold their annual plant sale outside the hospital cafeteria, Level 5, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shop for non-GMO, organically grown vegetable seedlings including tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, basil, cilantro, parsley and more. $3 each or 2 for $5 (cash only). Questions? Email [email protected].
Cruise Night Car Show
The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show every Wednesday through October from 5 to 9 p.m. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic cars in the parking lot. 631-929-3500
Caregiver Conference
Cona Elder Law hosts the 6th annual Caregiver Conference at the Hilton Long Island/Huntington Hilton, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville from 5 to 8:30 p.m.A free event for caregivers, more than 25 elder care industry sponsors and exhibitors will gather to discuss social senior living options and explore key differences between assisted living, independent living, continuing care retirement communities, allowing different options for family and financial support. Food and beverages will be served. For more information, visit www.conaelderlaw.com.
Opioid Overdose Prevention
Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport hosts an Opioid Overdose Prevention Training class at 7 p.m. CN Guidance and Counseling Services will conduct training for all interested adults on how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and administer Naloxone as well as receive a Naloxone kit. To register, call 631-261-6930.
Thursday May 9
Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall
See May 3 listing.
Farmingdale State College Plant Sale
See May 7 listing.
Successfully Aging in Place
Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a special program, Successfully Aging in Place, from 10 to 11 a.m. Get tips to proactively prepare to stay safe, healthy and happy in your own home into your golden years with Parker Jewish Institute. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org to register.
Health & Wellness Fair
The Town of Brookhaven will host a Health and Wellness Fair at the Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with free balance screenings, blood pressure screenings, food and nutrition education, cholesterol and glucose screenings and more. Free. For more information, call 631-451-5312.
Lunch & Learn
Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch & Learn series with a special screening and discussion of I Now Take Up My Pen at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Presented by the Port Jefferson Historical Society andthe Huntington Historical Society with Laura Warren and Toby Kissam, this short film tells the heart wrenching tale of two brothers from Huntington William and Jesse Platt, who served in different NYS Regiments from Long Island. Admission is $45 per person, $35 members and includes a wrap, salad, chips, dessert, and a beverage. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.
Mother’s Day lecture
Join the Whaling Museum of Cold Spring Harbor for an online lecture titled Oh Baby! Motherhood at Sea at 7 p.m. Get ready for Mother’s Day with this “What to Expect When you’re Expecting” — maritime edition! Explore the undertold yet remarkable experiences of pregnancies, childbirth, and the early years of raising a child for the brave 19th century whaling wives who went to sea and comb through women’s diaries, letters, photos, advertisements, and ship logbooks to trace and illuminate what mothering truly entailed on the high seas. Adults only. Free, suggested donation of $10 gratefully accepted. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.
Film
‘Priscilla’
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a viewing of Priscilla starring Cailee Spaeny, Jacob Elordi, and Dagmara Domińczyk on May 6 from 2 to 4 p.m. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 to reserve your seat.
Long Island Jewish Film Festival
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington hosts the 2nd annual Long Island Jewish Film Festival from May 3 to 7. The festival will feature films that include innovative documentaries, riveting dramas, and rarely seen pieces of film history, all curated by David Schwartz, Curator at Large at the Museum of the Moving Image, who will also host and lead audience discussions after many of the festival’s screenings. Tickets range from $16 to $18. For the full schedule, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Catch a screening of ‘A Disturbance In the Force’ at JFK Middle School on May 6.
‘A Disturbance in the Force’
Port Jefferson Documentary Series Spring line-up continues with a screening of A Disturbance in the Force at John F. Kennedy MIddle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on May 6 at 7 p.m. A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…In 1978 George Lucas was talked into cashing in on the Star Wars craze by producing a holiday variety TV special.What could possibly go wrong? Answer: Everything. Followed by a Q&A with guest speaker Director Jeremy Coon. Tickets are $10 in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com or at the door (cash only).
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 26. 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.
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Murder on the Orient Express, a thrilling mystery about the most infamous case of one of fiction’s most famous detectives, from April 6 to May 4. Murder and mayhem await renowned investigator Hercule Poirot as he boards a train filled with treachery and intrigue. Featuring a shadowy American, a train full of suspects, a notebook’s worth of alibis, and a singular Belgian sleuth whose mustache twitches at murder, all aboard the Orient Express! 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.
‘(mostly) TRUE THINGS’
The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St, Port Jefferson hosts a performance of (mostly) TRUE THINGS, a game wrapped in a storytelling show that features stories related to the themes in Star Wars on May 4 at 7 p.m. The star-studded case includes Lydia Franco-Hodges, Mindy Pfeiffer and Adam Grundfest. Tickets are $20 online at www.eventbrite.com or $25 at the door (cash only).
‘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. Please Note: 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.
Class Reunions
•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. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected]
CALENDAR DEADLINEis 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.
Michael Douglas stars as 'Franklin' on Apple+. Photo courtesy of Apple+
By Leah S. Dunaief
Leah Dunaief, Publisher
Could the colonists have won the Revolutionary War without the aid of the French? “Franklin” is currently streaming on Apple+ and deals with that question as it also shows that founding father to have been quite human. An eight-episode story, it stars Michael Douglas, and I have watched five installments, starting with Franklin’s landing on the shores of France in December 1776. He did so at great risk, for had he been caught by the British during the voyage, he might have been hanged as one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. His mission was to get France to supply and join the colonists in their struggle against the British, also enemies of the French.
The plot, with its court intrigue, violence, spies, and photogenic 18th century clothing and luxury, along with both the brilliance and character failings of its polymath hero, make for good entertainment. And I came to wonder what eventually happened to two others who played a role at that time.
One was Temple Franklin, the illegitimate son of Franklin’s own illegitimate son, William, Governor of New Jersey, and Benedict Arnold, who provided the decisive turning point in France’s decision to join with the colonists.
Temple, who accompanied his 70-year-old grandfather, was 17 when they landed and served Franklin as his private secretary, keeping records as the Franco-American Treaty of Alliance was negotiated in 1778 and then the Treaty of Paris in 1782.
Temple became a European, embracing French culture, values and rakish friends. In no way was he able to emulate his grandfather. When he returned to Philadelphia with Franklin in 1785 at the end of the war, he did not fit in. Despite his grandfather’s efforts, he did not receive a diplomatic post, although he hungered to be appointed to the court of France. He returned to Paris in 1796, after a stint in London with his father, and died there penniless in 1823. A friend had to pay for his burial.
As for Benedict Arnold, he was a British military officer (remember, they were all British before the War) who fought with the Continental Army, and was responsible for the critical victory at Saratoga that convinced the French to join the war. He became a major general, and earned Washington’s complete trust when put in charge of the fort at West Point before defecting to the British in 1780. Later in the war, he rose to brigadier general and led the British Army in their fight against some of the men he had formerly commanded.
His name became synonymous with betrayal and treason.
How could that happen? Many historians say, “Cherchez la femme.”
Arnold mingled in Philadelphia with upper class Loyalists, living well beyond his means. Despite his several substantial military contributions to the Revolutionary War effort, he became enchanted with Peggy Shippen, and married into her staunchly Loyalist family. She was good friends with Major John Andre, who became head of British Intelligence. Arnold was offered 20,000 pounds if he surrendered West Point to the British, and Shippen passed messages between the two men.
As we know from our Culper Spy local history, Andre was caught with incriminating papers by American militiamen as he rode north to meet Arnold, who was warned of the capture. He fled across the Hudson and joined the British camp; Andre was hanged.
Arnold subsequently caused much damage in Connecticut, leading troops that burned down New London and slaughtered surrendering forces after the Battle of Groton Heights, just a few miles down river from the town where he was born and grew up.
In 1782, he and Peggy moved to London, where he was well received by King George III and the Tories, given 6000 pounds and an annual pension of 360 pounds, but shunned by the Whigs and most Army officers. He moved to Canada in 1787 to run a merchant business, but was extremely unpopular and returned to London in 1791. He died there ten years later.
Their lives were footnotes in history with two sad tales.
New Granite Chef’s Kitchen With The Highest Quality Stainless Appliances. Primary Bedroom Suite On The Main Level. Lower Level With Den, Bedroom And Full Bathroom. On Just Under 4 Acres And 680 Feet Of Water Frontage On The Scenic Nissequogue River With Direct Access To The River.
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