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Yearly Archives: 2025

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Matthew Sheehy Was Allegedly Speeding and Impaired by Alcohol and Drugs When He Crashed into a Disabled Motorist on the Shoulder of the Road

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 19 that Matthew Sheehy, 47, of East Setauket, was indicted for Aggravated Vehicular Assault, Assault in the Second Degree, and other related charges, for allegedly speeding while intoxicated and impaired by drugs, and causing a three-vehicle crash that resulted in injuries to four people.

“This defendant allegedly made the reckless choice to drive while impaired by drugs and alcohol, forever changing the lives of innocent people who were simply trying to get to their destinations that day,” said District Attorney Tierney. “What we see in this case is the devastating cost of impaired driving and we will not tolerate drivers who turn our roadways into danger zones for law- abiding citizens.”

According to the investigation, on November 15, 2024, at approximately 12:21 a.m., Sheehy allegedly drove eastbound on the Long Island Expressway at a high rate of speed in his 2022 Ram pick-up truck, weaving in and out of lanes before he veered into the right shoulder of the expressway near Exits 62 and 63. He ultimately crashed into a disabled 2010 Chrysler Town and Country minivan that was parked on the shoulder that had one occupant inside.

The Chrysler was propelled into the expressway’s HOV lane, came to a stop, and was then struck by a third vehicle, a 2018 Honda CRV, which had three occupants inside. One passenger in the CRV sustained serious injuries from the crash, including the loss of her eyesight in one eye, brain bleeding and a skull fracture. The two other occupants inside the CRV and the occupant inside the Chrysler sustained various other injuries that required medical treatment at local hospitals.

Sheehy was later taken to the hospital where he was placed under arrest after it was determined that Sheehy was allegedly intoxicated by alcohol and impaired by drugs.

On February 19, 2025, Sheehy was arraigned on the indictment before Acting Supreme Court Justice Philip Goglas, for the following charges:

  • One count of Aggravated Vehicular Assault, a Class C felony;
  • One count of Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D felony;
  • One count of Vehicular Assault in the First Degree, a Class D felony;
  • One count of Vehicular Assault in the Second Degree, a Class E felony;
  • Two counts of Driving While Intoxicated, Class E felonies;
  • Two Counts of Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, Class E felonies;
  • One Count of Driving While Ability Impaired by the Combined Influence of Drugs

    or of Alcohol and any Drug or Drugs, a Class E felony;

  • Three counts of Assault in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors;
  • One count of Reckless Endangerment in the Second Degree, a Class A misdemeanor;
  • One count of Reckless Driving, an Unclassified misdemeanor;
  • One count of Moving from Lane Unsafely, a traffic infraction;
  • One count of Speeding, a traffic infraction;
  • One count of Driving on Shoulder, a traffic infraction; and
  • One count of Failing to Move Over, a traffic infraction

Justice Goglas ordered Sheehy held on $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond or $1 million partially secured bond. Sheehy is due back in court on March 12, 2025, and faces 5 to 15 years in prison if convicted on the top count. He is being represented by Michael Brown, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jeffrey Rosenheck of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Joseph Bianco of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Major Case Unit.

 

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A TRUE MAVERICK Catch a screening of ‘The Real Dirt on Farmer John’ at the Cinema Arts Centre on Feb. 20. Photo courtesy of CAC
Thursday Feb. 20

Reduce Your Energy Bill

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Reduce Your Energy Bill event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PSEG’s Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP) program is free for income-eligible customers. Drop in and speak with a PSEG representative to learn how REAP can help you save energy and reduce your electric bills. No registration required. 631-928-1212.

HHS Lunch and Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues their Lunch and Learn series with a lecture on Black Whalers by Nomi Dayan at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Join this fascinating presentation spotlighting the roles African American mariners played in our whaling history. Explore their triumphs, challenges, perseverance, and connections to sea-including ties to the Underground Railroad. ​Tickets are $55, $45 members and includes a two-course gourmet meal and dessert. Cash bar available. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Gallery North Art Reception

Join Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket for an opening reception for Contours & Currents: Recent Works by Edward Acosta from 6 to 8 p.m. The exhibition, which features a selection of large and medium-scale acrylic paintings inspired by views of sunrises and sunsets on Long Island, runs through March 30. 631-751-2676

An Evening of Jazz

Richie Iacona’s Bad Little Big Band heads to the Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook at 7 p.m. The concert, titled “Our Kind of Broadway!”, features singer Madeline Kole. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 children, $15 children ages 6 and older. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org. 631-751-1895

SBU Faculty Recital

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook hosts a joint Faculty Recital featuring Gina Cuffari, Christina Dahl and Nina Bernat in the Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m. The trio will present an eclectic program of virtuosic masterworks reimagined and new works exploring the creative possibilities of the bassoon, bass, and piano. Program will include works by Roussel, Prokofiev, Harberg, August and Vivaldi. Free admission. 631-632-2787

Friday Feb. 21 

Unsung Heroes Lecture

In honor of Black History Month Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station will present a lecture titled Unsung Heroes: African-American Medical Pioneers from 11 a.m. to noon. Discover the history of Pittsburgh’s Freedom House Ambulance Corps, Staten Island’s Black Angels, and more with educator Howard Rosenberg. Call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org to register.

‘Iconography’ art reception

Huntington Arts Council invites the community to an artist reception for its current exhibit, Iconography, at the Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Juried by Alexandra “Sasha” Giordano, the exhibit explores how traditional symbols and imagery can be reimagined through contemporary practices. The show runs through March 16. For more information, call 631-271-8423.

‘Figure and Form’ art reception

The Reboli Center for Art & History, 604 Main St., Stony Brook hosts an opening reception for “Figure & Form” from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Be among the first to experience this captivating exhibition, featuring dynamic interpretations of figure and form by Joseph Reboli, Stefano Curti, Frances Campani, Ahmad Kasher, Steven Forster, and more. The show runs through April 13. Light refreshments will be served. 631-751-7707

WinterTide Concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson presents Gail Storm in concert from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. With her barrelhouse piano style and winning smile, this is a perfect way to warm up a winter evening. Free will donation. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and Greater Port Jefferson-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. 631-473-5220

Avalon Astronomy Night – just added!

The Observatories at Avalon Nature Preserve will be hosting a live observing session (weather permitting), The Classics of the Winter Sky, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.  Their telescopes will be providing both digital and visual views of popular wintertime deep space objects and the planets Jupiter and Mars. Free. Pre-registration is not required. Parking is at the barn at 60 Shep Jones Lane in Stony Brook. Please note: Access is only available from 25A / North Country due to the Harbor Road closure. For more information, call 631-689-0619.

New Orleans Songbook with Jazz

Get ready to celebrate all-things Mardi Gras! Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents the New Orleans Songbook with Jazz at Lincoln Center in the Recital Hall at 8 p.m. Enjoy a celebration of the city’s rich jazz heritage, from Jelly Roll Morton to Louis Armstrong! Tickets range from $53 to $76. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages 16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door, cash only. 631-928-9100

Saturday Feb. 22

Long Island Spring Home Show

Suffolk County Community College,  1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood hosts the annual Long Island Spring Home Show today from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Feb. 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring a wide selection of home improvement, remodeling and landscaping professionals in a fun, interactive environment. Free passes at www.LIHomeShows-sc.com, $10 at the door. 

‘More Cowbell!’

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook welcomes LIMEHOF inductee Albert Bouchard, the former Blue Öyster Cult drummer on the recording “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” at 3 p.m. to speak about the song, the famous SNL skit and how the expression “I’ve got a fever, and the only prescription is more cowbell” remains iconic! The first 50 attendees will receive a free one of a kind red LIMEHOF mini cowbell. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase to the Hall of Fame and will feature a Q&A with Bouchard and select video clips. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Poetry & Mocktail Night

Rescheduled from Feb. 8 and Feb. 15. Join Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station for Love in Verse: Poetry & Mocktail Night, a special Valentine’s Day Open Poetry Mic Night filled with heartfelt expressions, delicious mocktails, and the timeless beauty of poetry at 7 p.m. $15 admission, $10 members. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

February Funny Fest

Long Island Comedy Festival’s 8th annual February Funny Fest heads to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. Hosted by Maria Walsh, the comedic line-up includes “Banjo” Les Bayer, Paul Taro, Rob Falcone and John Santo. Tickets are $55. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Sunday Feb. 23

Long Island Spring Home Show

See Feb. 22 listing.

Psychic & Holistic Wellness Expo

Empowered Path Expos presents a Pychic & Holistic Wellness Expo at Holiday Inn, 1730 North Ocean Ave., Holtsville from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with psychic mediums, tarot readings, angel card readings, wellness vendors, raffles and more. Free admission. 

Bingo Fundraiser

Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society presents an afternoon of Bingo at Moloney’s Tribute Center, 132 Ronkonkoma Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma at noon. Enjoy prizes, raffles and light refreshments. $20 for 4 games. To reserve your spot, call 631-588-1515.

Slavery on the North Fork lecture

In recognition of Black History Month, Hallockville Museum Farm will host a presentation by the North Fork Project, Slavery on the North Fork, in the Community Room at the Visitors Center of Hallock State Park Preserve, 6062 Sound Ave., Riverhead from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, but reservations are required by visiting www.hallockville.org.

Maple Sugaring Class

Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, 200 New Highway, Commack presents a Maple Sugaring class today from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Learn about the history of maple sugaring, from its discovery by Native Americans to modern-day techniques. Younger participants will learn about tree anatomy, chlorophyll’s role in sap production, and photosynthesis in maple syrup creation. Tickets are just $5 per person (cash only), with classes being open to the general public. Due to high demand, it is recommended that guests arrive by 1 p.m. to register. Questions? Call 631-543-7804. 

The Perfect Combination in concert

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport presents a concert titled Perfect Combination: Tribute to the Legends at 2 p.m. Join duo Donna Lee and Kenny Hendricks for this exciting, interactive musical show. The two vocalists will perform songs by artists including Donna Summer, Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Billy Joel, and many more, all with keyboard accompaniment. To register, call 631-261-6930.

‘Unfinished’ opening reception

Join the Huntington Historical Society for the opening reception for “Unfinished” featuring incomplete creations from the Society’s collection at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main St., Huntington from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit will run through September. Questions? Call 631-427-7045.

‘Kindred Spirits’ opening reception

The Firefly Artists, 90 Main St., Northport invites the community to an opening reception of its 5th annual “Kindred Spirits” exhibit, highlighting the unique relationships between teachers and students, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibit, which runs through March 10, offers a chance to meet the artists, hear their stories, and enjoy an afternoon surrounded by incredible art. 631-651-5545

Annie Mark in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Annie Mark from 3 to 4 p.m.  The singer-songwriter will share her country-tinged Americana-roots music with a little torch and twang thrown in. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Monday Feb. 24

Free Health Screenings

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station will provide free health screenings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  A Catholic Health registered nurse will be onsite to provide flu shots, screenings for blood pressure, BMI, blood cholesterol or glucose, and referrals. No insurance required. Open to all 18+. No registration required. 631-928-1212

Tuesday Feb. 25

SBU Family Orchestra Concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts will host the annual Family Orchestra Concert on the Main Stage at 7:30 p.m. Conducted by Susan Deaver, the University Orchestra will present “Orchestral Rhythms’ with soloist Alicja Paruch. Free admission. 631-632-2787

Bachelors of Broadway

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a Bachelors of Broadway at 8 p.m. This brand-new three-man act features symphonic arrangements of songs from modern and classic musicals like Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Miss Saigon, The Greatest Showman, Les Miserables and many more. Tickets are $45. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Wednesday Feb. 26

Community Blood Drive

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport will hold a Community Blood Drive through New York Blood Center from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments are preferred, however walk-ins are welcome if space permits. www.donate.nybc.org

SBU Journalism Lecture

Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism presents its annual Marie Colvin Distinguished Lecture in the Wang Center Theater, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook at 6 p.m. Rhona Tarrant, Executive Editor of CBS News Confirmed, will examine the rising prominence of open-source verification in conflict reporting and outline the critical tools required for the next generation of journalists. Preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. 631-632-7403

Thursday Feb. 27

SBU Presidential Lecture

Stony Brook University presents a Presidential lecture, A Conversation with Eddie Glaude Jr., PhD, in the Wang Center Theater, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook at 5 p.m. Join Executive Vice President and Provost Carl Lejuez for a special afternoon with The New York Times Best Sellers author and scholar. Glaude will examine the concept of anti-racism and discuss his latest book, We Are the Leaders We Have Been Looking For. Followed by a Q&A, book signing and reception. Free and open to the public. Visit stony brook.edu/presidentiallecture for more information.

Game Night at the LIM

As a companion program to its Voices and Votes exhibition, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents an American Experiments Game Night from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. featuring a series of games developed by the Smithsonian Institution. Drop in to view the exhibition and participate in meaningful discussions about ideas that are critical to our democracy, all in a fun and engaging format. Adults and children are welcome to stop by and play! Free admission. 631-751-0066

Native American Drumming

All Souls Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Medication from 7 p.m. 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. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Film

‘The Real Dirt on Farmer John’

As part of its Let’s Eat: Food on Film series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will present the documentary The Real Dirt on Farmer John on Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. A great American epic playing out in the tiny town of Caledonia, Illinois, The Real Dirt on Farmer John tells the story of John Peterson and his struggle to redefine his family farm into a revolutionary farming community. $16 per person, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

David Lynch Tribute

In memory of legendary director David Lynch, who passed away on Jan. 15 at the age of 78, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will be screening a selection of his most iconic films including Mulholland Drive on Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m.; Inland Empire on Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m., Lost Highway on March 1 at 7 p.m, and A Straight Story on March 29 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station to watch Beetlejuice  Beetlejuice, starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara, on Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘Bike Vessel’

In partnership with Independent Lens, the Greater Port Jefferson-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council will host an Indie Lens Pop-Up screening of the documentary Bike Vessel at  First United Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson on Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. which chronicles a portrait of familial love following a long-distance cycling trip between father and son. Followed by a panel discussion. Free but registration is required by visiting www.gpjac.org.

Theater

‘Heartbreak Hotel’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs.  To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Ring of Fire’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cash  comes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. RING OF FIRE captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. His life story is told through the songs he composed, recorded, and shared with the world. 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 Storytelling Show
The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents a (mostly) TRUE THINGS Storytelling Show on March 1 at 7 p.m. Join them for a compelling evening of true stories – with a twist. Four creative people from the Long Island community will tell true, funny, heartfelt stories about an experience from their own life on the theme LOST AND FOUND. But there is a game in the show as well. Some of the stories include subtle little lies. The audience gets to question the storytellers, then votes for the person they think told it completely straight. Featuring stories by Arthur Frischman, Liz Gannon Graydon, Cathy Salit, Pete Lotus Arevelo, and Jude Treder-Wolff. Tickets are $20 online, $25 at the door (cash only).

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 14 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Waitress The Musical’

Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop — until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 to the end of April. 631-802-216

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.

 

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Andrea Goldsmith will be Stony Brook University's 7th President. Photo courtesy of SBU

By Daniel Dunaief

Stony Brook University has named Andrea Goldsmith as the downstate flagship public university’s seventh president.

Goldsmith, who will start her tenure at Stony Brook on August 1st, has been the dean of engineering and applied sciences at Princeton University since 2020. She has been a dean, researcher in engineering, technology company founder and faculty member at Princeton and at Stanford University and Caltech.

Goldsmith will take over for Richard McCormick, who had been interim dean of the university after former president Maurie McInnis resigned last year to become president of Yale University.

”I would like to congratulate Goldsmith on her appointment as the next president of this prestigious university as I believe she will undoubtedly serve Stony Brook admirably,” Kathy Hochul (D), governor of New York, said in a statement.

Goldsmith’s research interests are in communications. control and signal processing and their application to wireless communications, interconnected systems and biomedical devices. She founded and served as Chief Technology Officer of Plume WiFi and of Quantenna Inc. and is on the board of Directors for Intel, Medtronic, Crown Castle and the Marconi Society. She has also served on the Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology from 2021 to 2025.

At Princeton, Goldsmith helped establish the Omenn-Darling Bioengineering Institute. She also developed interdisciplinary research in robotics, blockchain, wireless technologies and artificial intelligence.

Andrew Singer, the Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Stony Brook, has known Goldsmith for over 25 years.

“She’s a fantastic choice,” Singer said in an interview. “She’s a community builder” and an innovator and has been a “highly visible and strong proponent for the intellectual communities she’s been a part of.”

The newly named SBU president was the founding chair of the IEEE Board of Directors Committee on Diversity and Inclusion and served as President of the IEEE Information Theory Society, as founding Chair of the Student Committee and as founding Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Information Theory.

Goldsmith will be joining Stony Brook at a time when the school has developed significant momentum in a number of areas. The university has risen in the rankings of US News and World Reports, climbing to 58th among national universities and 26th among public universities.

The university also secured a $500 million commitment from Marilyn and the late Jim Simons through the Simons Foundation, which was the largest unrestricted gift ever made to a U.S. education institution.

The university is also in the process of leading the development  of a $700 million climate center on Governors Island.

During McCormick’s tenure at Stony Brook, which started last August, he outlined ways to improve and build on the university’s success, while also recognizing the need for investment.

McCormick highlighted how Stony Brook had an estimated $2 billion in deferred maintenance.

In an oral history interview with Mary Ann Hellrigel of the IEEE History Cente conducted on February 2, 2022, Goldsmith shared that she grew up in California, where she lived with her mother Adrienne Goldsmith after her parents got divorced. Her mother was an animator for cartoon shows, including “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show.”

She is married to Arturo Salz and the couple has two children.

Goldsmith spent part of what would have been her senior year in high school as a singer in Greek night clubs before starting college.

Goldsmith has a Bachelor’s in Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley and an MS and PhD in electricity engineering from UC Berkeley.

 

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From left, Dwayne Jones and Randy Woods. Photo from Suffolk D.A.'s office

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 18 that Dwayne Jones, 46, of Central Islip, was sentenced to four to eight years in prison after he and his co-defendant, Randy Woods, 38, of Wyandanch, pleaded guilty for stealing tires and rims from 114 vehicles during the course of more than a year.

“The successful arrest, conviction and sentencing of these two defendants underscores our commitment to combating theft and property crimes in Suffolk County,” said District Attorney Tierney. “This case also showcases the extensive collaboration and significant resources that are brought to bear on pattern crimes. We are grateful for the specialized investigative support from the Suffolk County Police Department and National Insurance Crime Bureau.”

“The National Insurance Crime Bureau would like to express our appreciation to the staff of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the investigators who tirelessly participated in this investigation. We are pleased that NICB had the opportunity to provide support,” said Kevin Gallagher, Regional Director of the Northeast Region of the National Insurance Crime Bureau. “Individuals who prey on consumers by stealing tires and rims from vehicles, not only cause financial loss, but disrupt every aspect of the consumer’s lives. The sentences imposed on these individuals demonstrate the commitment by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office to address these crimes and illuminate the consequences to those who would contemplate participating in this nefarious activity.”

According to the investigation, between July 1, 2022, and October 20, 2023, Woods and Jones targeted residents, car dealerships, and rental car companies across Suffolk County to steal tires and rims from several vehicles, with preference to vehicles from Honda, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, BMW, and black rims from SUVs.

On July 26, 2024, Woods pleaded guilty before Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins to one count of Auto Stripping in the First Degree, a Class D felony, and one count of Auto Stripping in the Second Degree, a Class E felony. Woods also pleaded guilty to one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a Class D felony, in an unrelated case.

On October 11, 2024, Woods was sentenced to a combined indeterminate sentence of five to 10 years with restitution judgement orders for the victims totaling $193,468.25. Woods was represented by Christopher Gioe, Esq.

On January 9, 2025, Jones pleaded guilty before Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins to two counts of Auto Stripping in the First Degree, Class D felonies.

On February 13, 2025, Jones was sentenced to a combined indeterminate sentence of four to eight years with restitution judgement orders for the victims totaling $193,468.19. Jones was represented by John Loturco, Esq.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys James Bartens and Blythe Miller of the Financial Crimes Bureau, with assistance from Detective Michael Lavella of the Property Auto Crime Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department, Detective Michael Filippazzo of the Gun Crime Reduction Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department, and Research Technician Emily Kiersnowski of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Specialized assistance was also received from the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

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Photo from PSEG LI

PSEG Long Island is launching Senior Connections, a new program focused on helping seniors in the community navigate through a range of important topics. Under the program, PSEG Long Island is providing subject-matter experts to address groups of seniors about storm preparation, scam prevention, electric safety, energy efficiency and financial assistance.

“We created this Senior Connections program to enhance our commitment to older adults in the community,” said Michael Presti, PSEG Long Island’s director of Customer Experience and Marketing. “This free program will provide important information to help seniors stay safe and save money at locations that are convenient for them to attend.”

The seminars will be held in partnership with large and small community-based organizations, local libraries, schools, 55+ communities and other groups that provide seniors with programming and activities. Small, intimate groups or larger gatherings can be accommodated, either in person or via interactive virtual video meetings.

In Suffolk County the first seminar will be held at the Huntington YMCA, on Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 1 p.m. The topic will be on scam prevention. To sign up for this free program, visit ymcali.org/pseg-senior-connections.

To find out more about the program or to request a lecture for your constituency, contact PSEG Long Island at[email protected].

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Philip Walker
Philip Walker Faces 20 Years in Prison

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb. 18 that Philip Walker, 58, of Mastic, pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, for stabbing his housemate, 63-year-old Jimmy Vaughn, three times with a knife. During the attack, Walker fatally pierced the victim’s heart.

“This conviction ensures accountability for a senseless act of violence that claimed a life,” said District Attorney Tierney. “While no sentence can bring the victim back to his friends and family, I hope that they can find some solace knowing that his killer was held criminally responsible for his actions.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on

June 30, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Walker fatally stabbed the victim inside a room at the Shirley Motel on Montauk Highway. When paramedics arrived, Vaughn was found outside of room, bleeding from the left side of his chest and abdomen. Vaughn was taken to Long Island Community Hospital, where doctors tried but failed to repair the hole in his heart. He was pronounced dead at approximately 6:20 p.m.

Walker fled from the motel after the incident, but Suffolk County Police officers arrested him on July 2, 2023, at a family member’s home in North Amityville.

On February 14,  Walker pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony, before Acting Supreme Court Justice Karen M. Wilutis. Walker is expected to be sentenced to 20 years in prison. He is due back in court on March 25, 2025, and is being represented by Eric Besso, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Dena Rizopoulos of the Homicide Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective David Gelsomino of Suffolk County Police Department’s Homicide Squad.

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Do you recognize these two women? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Polce Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate two women who allegedly stole from a Setauket store in January.

Two women allegedly stole a comforter from Target, located at 265 Pond Path, at approximately 6:05 p.m. on January 18.

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

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Hoyt Farm's interpretive specialist Sheryl Brook explains the process of maple sugaring to Hauppauge Girl Scouts Troop 428 during a previous year's event. Photo from Town of Smithtown

The annual, educational Maple Sugaring classes are back at Hoyt Farm. The highly anticipated program will run on three Sundays: February 23rd, March 2nd, and March 9th, from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, located at 200 New Highway in Commack. Tickets are just $5 per person (cash only), with classes being open to the general public. Due to high demand, it is recommended that guests arrive by 1 p.m. to register.

Hoyt Farm Park Manager Jeff Gumin teaches a group about tree tapping at a previous event.
File photo by Greg Catalano/TBR News Media

“This is one of our Town’s finest and wildly popular educational programs, and it’s an experience every resident should take part in. The techniques used to make maple syrup are a cherished part of our history. Jeff Gumin, Sheryl Brook, and the entire Hoyt Farm team go above and beyond with their demonstration, making it an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend for the entire family,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

The Maple Sugaring Program covers the history of maple sugaring, from its discovery by Native Americans to modern-day techniques. The program includes a special interactive portion for younger participants to learn about tree anatomy, chlorophyll’s role in sap production, and photosynthesis in maple syrup creation.

A unique feature of Hoyt Farm’s program is that Black Walnut trees are tapped alongside traditional Maple trees. To produce the sweetest sap, temperatures must remain below freezing at night and above 40 degrees during the day, which typically occurs during the late February to early March sugaring season.

Program Highlights:

  • Historical and Educational Demonstration: Learn the full process of making maple syrup and its importance throughout history.
  • Interactive Learning for Kids: Hands-on learning about tree anatomy, sap production, and photosynthesis.
  • Family-Oriented Experience: Open to all age groups and popular amongst school groups, scout troops, families, and nature lovers alike.

The Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve’s maple sugaring program began in the late 1970s as a single class and has since grown into an interactive, family-friendly experience open to the general public.

For questions about this and other programs at Hoyt Farm, call: (631) 543-7804. 

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Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL
Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL
Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL
Model Train Show at MCPL 2/15/25. Photo courtesy of MCPL

Train enthusiasts had a “choo choo” of a fun time when they visited the Railroad Museum of Long Island’s toy train display at Middle Country Public Library in Centereach on Feb. 15 and Feb. 16. With 1,400 in attendance, patrons enjoyed watching a variety of trains running in addition to interacting with museum staff and volunteers who shared their expertise. One of the highlights was the toy train clinic that was offered.

For more information about programs and classes held at Middle Country Public Library, please visit https://www.mcplibrary.org or call at 631-585-9393.

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Photo by J. Marcus
Photo by J. Marcus

The Resurrection Byzantine Catholic Church, 38 Mayflower Ave., Smithtown will host its annual Pysanky egg decorating class in the Church Hall on Sunday, March 23 from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Make a traditional Ukrainian egg to take home!

Designed for all skill levels, each participant will be required to bring an unscented candle in a holder, pencils and paper towels. Starter kits must be purchased for $15. Other supplies such as styluses, wax, etc. will be available for purchase. Class fee $20.

Registration is due by March 10. To reserve your spot, please call Joanne at 631-332-1449 (leave a message).

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