Yearly Archives: 2024

Caption: Stony Brook University goes car free. Photo by John Griffin/Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University has won this year’s Car Free Day Long Island, with the  highest number of pledges on a college campus, 892 people, who will go car free for at least one trip.

Car Free Day is an international event celebrated in September where people are encouraged to travel car-free, opting to instead ride public transit, a bicycle, travel by carpool, or walk. This year, Car Free Day Long Island was held on September 22, 2024. This was the 12th year Long Island has participated in the event.

Stony Brook University has been participating in Car Free Day Long Island since 2013 with the aim of getting  students, faculty, and staff to participate in alternate ways of traveling to reduce carbon emissions. The event aligns with Stony Brook’s sustainability goals, and also promotes the use of its Wolf Ride Bike Share program and coincides with its recent recognition as a Bike Friendly University. To spread the word this year, coordinators sent out emails to students and employees as well as posted on the Stony Brook University Office of Sustainability’s Instagram.

“Participating in initiatives like Car Free Day Long Island helps to bring awareness to the power of collective action when approaching climate solutions,” said Erin Kluge, sustainability coordinator, from Stony Brook University’s Office of Sustainability, which led the university’s participation. “Incorporating alternative travel options in our routine when possible is one of the many great ways we can help lessen our carbon footprint.”

“A great part of Car Free Day Long Island is that it helps put our reliance on our vehicles into perspective. While the event reduced carbon emissions, the awareness it sparked will continue to have lasting effects,” said Environmental Studies major Max Cruz, ‘25.

Last year, Car Free Day was celebrated in 3,100 cities in 50 countries. The event draws participants in a variety of fields, from interested parties to organizations committing to the pledge. This year, 3,912 Long Islanders pledged to go car free.

Of the organizations involved in the final pledge count, categories included participants from colleges, healthcare, companies, municipalities, libraries, and nonprofits. In the colleges category, Stony Brook out-pledged other participants by four-fold, with NY Tech coming in at 196 pledges and Farmingdale State College with 99 pledges.

 

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Alexander Castillo

Alexander Castillo Was Convicted by a Jury in August

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Oct. 4 that Alexander Castillo, 27, of the Bronx, was sentenced to 18 years in prison, following his trial conviction of Assault, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, and other related charges. Castillo had shot two men following a dispute at a Port Jefferson pool hall in December 2022.

“With this sentence, we want the public to know that we are holding perpetrators of violent crimes accountable,” said District Attorney Tierney. “The defendant attempted to settle a petty financial dispute with a gun but instead will be spending the next 18 years in prison.”

The evidence at trial established that on December 28, 2022, Castillo played pool for several hours at a pool hall in Port Jefferson. Over the course of the evening, Castillo placed wagers on each game which resulted in mounting financial losses. At approximately 7:05 p.m., Castillo left the pool hall and returned approximately three minutes later wearing a ski mask and hat and carrying a loaded firearm. Castillo attempted to take back his losses from his opponent by displaying the loaded firearm and demanding the money.

A struggle ensued where Castillo’s opponent and another male tried to wrestle the gun away from Castillo. When the struggle spilled out onto the street, Castillo shot one man in the groin area and shot a second man in the chest.

Castillo fled the scene before the police arrived. Both victims were taken to local hospitals and received emergency medical treatment for their injuries.

On February 10, 2023, members of the Suffolk County Police Department arrested Castillo in Manhattan.

On August 23, 2024, Castillo was convicted after a jury trial heard before Supreme Court Justice Richard Ambro for the following charges:

  •   Two counts of Criminal Use of a Firearm in the First Degree, Class B violent felonies;
  •   Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, Class C violent

    felonies;

  •   One count of Criminal Use of a Firearm in the Second Degree, a Class C violent felony;
  •   Four counts of Assault in the Second Degree, Class D violent felonies;
  •   One count of Attempted Robbery in the Second Degree, a Class D violent felony;
  •   One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a Class D felony; and
  •   One count of Petit Larceny, a Class A misdemeanor.

    On October 3, 2024, Justice Ambro sentenced Castillo to 18 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision. He was represented by Ian Fitzgerald, Esq.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Melissa Turk and Ken Collado of the Violent Crimes Enterprises Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Martin Lupo of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Sixth Squad.

Dave Douglas September 27, 2017www.johnabbottphoto.com212-765-2342

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook, offers something for every jazz fan this October, from its weekly jam sessions on Wednesday nights; the Dave Douglas Gifts Quartet playing Billy Strayhorn; and the Willie Steele Quintet for a night of Blues, BBQ and Beer. In addition, The Jazz Loft also presents several nights of its Bright Moments Series, which showcase some of the brightest upcoming talents on the jazz scene. 

Jam sessions and Bright Moments series shows are priced at only $10!

Wednesday, October 16 at 7 p.m.

Jam Session at 7 p.m.    

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, October 17

The Bad Little Big Band at 7 p.m.

The 12-member Bad Little Big Band led by pianist Rich Iacona, and vocalist Madeline Kole accompanies the band.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Friday, October 18 at 7 p.m.

Dave Douglas Gifts Quartet plays Strayhorn

Dave Douglas, trumpet; Goeffrey Keezer, piano; Kate Pass, bass; Ryan Sands, drums.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Saturday, October 19, at. 2 p.m.

BB&B (Blues, BBQ and Beer) Willie Steele Quintet

Includes food, beer section, and music in the Count Basie Garden and front lawn.

$50 all

 

Tuesday, October 22 at 7 p.m.

Bright Moments Series

Alfonso Lama, guitar; Luca Rosenfeld, bass; Zan Teti Kovi, drums

Presenting some of the brightest upcoming talents on the jazz scene

Tickets: $10, $5 for seniors

 

Wednesday, October 23

Jam Session at 7 p.m.    

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, October 24

Interplay Jazz Orchestra at 7 p.m. 

The 17-piece Interplay Jazz Orchestra performs original compositions and arrangements written by band members.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Tuesday, October 29 at 7 p.m.

Bright Moments Series

Zan Tetickovic DMA recital; drums

Presenting some of the brightest upcoming talents on the jazz scene

Tickets: $10, $5 for seniors

 

Wednesday, October 30 at 7 p.m.

Jam Session at 7 p.m.    

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

For tickets and more information visit https://www.thejazzloft.org or call 631-751-1895.

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

A woman allegedly stole LEGOs from Target, located at 2975 Horseblock Road, on September 23 at approximately 9:20 a.m.

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.

Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways and Municipal Services Facility collected over 14.49 tons of hazardous household waste at the free disposal event this past weekend. On Saturday, October 5th, 520 households within the Township turned out to safely dispose of close to 29,000 (28,980) pounds of toxic items, which are prohibited in regular curbside waste pickups.

“Our residents take great pride in protecting our environment utilizing events like this to responsibly dispose of potentially hazardous chemicals and products from their homes. While our hope in the long term is that residents will use these events as inspiration to consider using safer and environmentally friendly alternatives around the home, the participation from the community speaks volumes about its popularity. I’d like to thank the team at MSF, Public Safety Fire Marshalls, DEW staff, Reworld (formerly Covanta) and the team at Radiac for another successful Hazardous Household Waste event to close out the year,” said Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

Reworld (formerly Covanta) distributed over 80 $5 Home Depot gift cards to residents for recycling potentially dangerous lithium-ion and other batteries, propane tanks and mercury containing devices thereby preventing these harmful items from curbside disposal. The town collected 67 propane tanks and over 350 batteries.Reusable bags from DEW were also provided to interested residents.

Smithtown Municipal Services Facility employees worked in conjunction with MSF staff, Public Safety Fire Marshalls, DEW staff and Reworld (formerly known as Covanta) staff supplementing the work by Radiac, the Hazardous Household Waste contractor. The event to provide a safe and efficient service to residents was spearheaded under the direction of Environmental Director Environmental Director David Barnes, DEW Sr Analyst Rich Kitt, and MSF Foreman Tommy Passariello.

A portion of the wastes collected for manifested disposal include: mercury, waste oil based paints/ flammable paints, gasoline, paint thinners, waste gases, petroleum distillates, flammable solids, oxidizers liquids and solids, sodium/potassium nitrates, acids, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, misc. toxic liquids (i.e. Chlordane, etc.) and solids, lacquers, lithium batteries, battery acids and various other toxic compounds.

The Household Hazardous Waste collection events for the 2025 calendar year will be announced in December. Hazardous Household Waste collection events are for Smithtown Township residents only. Proof of residency will be confirmed upon entry.

DID YOU KNOW?

●  Bicycle Upcycle: Residents can now upcycle bicycles at Municipal Services Facility (MSF) which are restored and distributed through Smithtown Bicycle Co-op, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located at FlowerField (Unit 18) in St James. The organization fixes up and provides free bikes, classes and access to repair tools, promoting health, safety, education & the concept of “paying it forward” through Recycling, Education and Community. Residents can drop off used bicycles free of charge at MSF during regular hours.

●  Electronic Waste: Residents can also dispose of electronic waste, free of charge, at the Town Recycling Center located at 85 Old Northport Road. Electronic waste, such as computers, printers, TV’s, monitors, automotive and household batteries, can be dropped off during regular hours for proper recycling.

●  Free Mulch: Mulch is also available free of charge to residents. Smithtown residents can line up for pre-packaged bags of mulch with a maximum of 10 bags per visit. We offer free loading of loose mulch into your pick-up or dump truck. A cover is required.

●  Clothing Bins: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island Clothing & Textile Bins are now located at MSF. Clothing and other textiles may be dropped off at these bins during regular business hours. There is no charge however, donation receipts are not provided.

The Smithtown Municipal Services Facility is located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park. Regular operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. For more information, call 631-269-6600.

Super Vision exhibit

Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will present a free Art Crawl on Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 1 to 3 p.m. The University host a variety of renowned art galleries that provide unique spaces and opportunities for cultural and artistic exchanges and collaborations. Oct. 9th’s Art Crawl will unite  the university’s galleries through a series of free guided tours led by expert curators. Guests may join at any point on the tour.

Schedule

1pm | Charles B. Wang Center, Skylight Gallery 

Yarnscapes: Mulyana’s Environmental Tapestries

Renowned for his imaginative use of crochet techniques, artist Mulyana creates large-scale installations and soft sculptures that evoke themes of nature, sustainability, and community. He transforms simple yarn into mesmerizing pieces of art, bringing to life colorful, whimsical installations through crochet, stitching, and knitting. On view through December 10.

1:30pm | Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery, Staller Center for the Arts, Level 1

Nicole Cohen: SUPER VISION  features videos and photo-collages that explore perception as viewed through interior spaces and architectural environments. Cohen’s work often overlays past and present imagery, including vintage magazine pages, domestic interiors, period rooms, historical paintings and iconic architectural spaces to comment on socially constructed space. On view through October 18.

2pm | Gallery Unbound, Staller Center for the Arts, Level 3

Young Maeng, Non-Human Ontology + AI Humanity. Young Maeng’s work explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and traditional painting techniques like Korean ink and acrylic.

2:30pm | Melville Library, Lawrence Alloway Memorial Gallery, Level 1

Diana Salomon, Do They Look Like Me? MFA graduate student solo exhibition. On view through October 15.

For more information, call 631-632-7240.

Pictured left to right is George Reichel (grandfather), Kristine Sanders (mom), Alison Sanders; Sandy Reichel (grandmother) Councilwoman Bonner, Emily Sanders (sister) and James Sanders (dad). Photo from TOB

On October 12, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner met with Allison Sanders from Girl Scout Troop 1186 and her family at Sylvan Avenue Park in Miller Place.

The Councilwoman was there to congratulate Allison for attaining her Bronze Award, the highest that a Girl Scout Junior can earn. Each Bronze Award candidate must give 20 hours of community service towards the project. Allison’s “Puzzle Box” encourages people to trade puzzles. She will donate some of the puzzles and host a puzzle drive. Alison asks residents to donate any puzzles they finish and place them in the Puzzle Box.

Pictured left to right is George Reichel (grandfather), Kristine Sanders (mom), Alison Sanders; Sandy Reichel (grandmother) Councilwoman Bonner, Emily Sanders (sister) and James Sanders (dad).

Ward Melville High School science teacher Jenny Serigano was named a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by The National Society of High School Scholars. She is photographed with Ward Melville High School Principal John Holownia. Photo courtesy of the Three Village Central School District

Ward Melville High School science teacher Jenny Serigano was recently named a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by The National Society of High School Scholars. This prestigious honor recognizes educators, including teachers, administrators and counselors, who inspire their students to grow and develop as scholars, leaders and citizens.

Each year, student members of NSHSS are invited to nominate educators. The student who nominated Ms. Serigano said, “Ms. Serigano is a great teacher and really knows how to do her job. When I’m in her class, I feel like I am genuinely learning because of the way she organizes and demonstrates the topics in class. I feel that she does her job better than most teachers and she also has a real passion in teaching.”

The Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction program is named for NSHSS co-founder Claes Nobel, a member of the family that established the Nobel Prizes.  Those named Educators of Distinction can access special grant opportunities to attend professional conferences or pursue advanced degrees. Additionally, they move on to compete for the NSHSS Educator of the Year. 

Bunny

“The only limits in life are the ones you make.”

Surrendered to a local town shelter after being hit by a car and sustaining injuries, Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center stepped in to rescue Bunny, a two-year-old Pit mix. Once her healing was complete, the staff began working on her leash and basic training skills, soon realizing that Bunny was deaf in conjunction with some neurological deficits such as head tremors and incoordination. Up to the challenge, the staff have subsequently been able to introduce different methods and tools to help Bunny better adjust to her new surroundings, ensuring she feels safe, secure, and treasured while she waits for her forever home.

Bunny

The best word to describe Bunny is ‘joyful’. Whether she’s spending time with her favorite people (and toys!) in one of the pens, or running free on the hill, she can often be heard enthusiastically voicing her appreciation and approval of a good time. Pure of heart, she is affectionate, loving, funny and playful. She is high-energy and high-spirited and is hoping for a family that can provide her with opportunities for exercise and adventure.

Despite her sweet natured demeanor, we’ve noticed that Bunny has significant food protection behavior with regard to other animals, possibly due to sensory loss or circumstances she may have faced in the past. For that reason, she requires a home without other dogs or cats. Also, because she plays with ‘joyful’ abandon and can’t always understand cues for correction, an adult home or one with older children would best fit her needs.

Bunny is blissfully unaware that she is any different from other dogs. Truthfully, in all the ways that matter, she is exactly the same: She has the same unequivocal loyalty, the same forgiving nature, the same optimistic attitude, and the same ability to love unconditionally. Bunny is a daily inspiration to live life without limits, always expect the best, and to embrace each moment.

Matching a dog with your family and lifestyle is a success story in the making. Could you be the one to write Bunny’s next chapter?

Little Shelter is located at 33 Warner Road in Huntington. For more information or to meet Bunny, call 631-368-8770.

 

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road Centerport continues its lecture series with a presentation titled In Levittown’s Shadow with historian Tim Keogh on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m.

Keogh will give a lecture on his book In Levittown’s Shadow: Poverty in America’s Wealthiest Postwar Suburb which takes a nuanced look at the history of suburban development and its connection to impoverished living conditions on Long Island.

“This forgotten part of Long Island’s past is one that continues to shape the Island’s current job and housing challenges,” Keogh said.

In Levittown’s Shadow (The University of Chicago Press, 2023), he examines the familiar narrative about American suburbs – after 1945, white residents left cities for leafy, affluent subdivisions and the prosperity they seemed to embody. Keogh’s research reveals that there is more to this story. He offers an eye-opening account of diverse, poor residents living and working in those same neighborhoods. Keogh shows how public policies produced both suburban plenty and deprivation—and why ignoring suburban poverty doomed efforts to reduce inequality.

Tim Keogh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History at Queensborough Community College. He earned an A.A. degree from Nassau Community College (2005), a B.A. in History from Hofstra University (2007), and M.A. degree in History from Hunter College (2010), and an M.Phil. and Ph.D. in History from the Graduate Center, City University of New York.

In Levittown’s Shadow: Poverty in America’s Wealthiest Postwar Suburbwon the Dixon Ryan Fox Prize for best manuscript in New York history. He is the editor of War and the City: The Urban Context of Conflict and Mass Destruction and his published work can be found in The New Republic, Nonsite, Journal of Urban History, and Journal of Planning Education and Research, among others. He is a Long Island native, and currently lives there with his wife and children.

Tickets are $10 at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org or click here.