Yearly Archives: 2025

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Governor Kathy Hochul joined State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald for a press conference on measles on March 19. Photo courtesy of Gov. Hochul's Office
All New Yorkers urged to ensure they are current with all recommended immunizations, especially Measles-Mumps-Rubella

Governor Kathy Hochul on March 19 launched a new web portal to support access to vaccines and public health information in the wake of measles cases in New York State: ny.gov/measles

The Governor joined State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald in a press conference to update New Yorkers on the cases and encouraged everyone to ensure they are current on all recommended immunizations.

There have been four total cases of measles in New York State so far this year, three in New York City and one in Suffolk County. None of the cases this year are related to each other or connected to the outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico. The risk of measles to New Yorkers from these outbreaks is low.

“Measles doesn’t belong in the 21st century, and it certainly doesn’t belong in the State of New York,” Governor Hochul said. “As measles outbreaks occur at home and around the globe, it’s critical that New Yorkers take the necessary steps to get vaccinated, get educated and stave off the spread of this preventable disease — the safety of our communities depends on it.”

The New York State Department of Health and local health departments work together to monitor cases and alert the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All New Yorkers are urged to protect themselves by making sure they’re up to date on important, lifesaving immunizations.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The single way to prevent measles is to be immunized, and this is an irrefutable fact. Measles is much more than just a rash. In the current outbreak in the United States, one in five people are being admitted to a hospital. I urge all New Yorkers to ensure they are current on their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) immunizations and immediately get vaccinated if they are not.”

Based on immunization registry data, the current statewide vaccination rate for babies up to two years old, excluding New York City, is 81.4 percent. This is the percent of children who have received at least one dose of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccines. However, actual vaccination coverage among school-age children is higher, typically around 90 percent.

Individuals should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine to be protected. Those who aren’t sure about their immunization status should call their local health department or health care provider. Those who were born before 1957 have likely already been exposed to the virus and are immune. Those born between 1957 and 1971 should check with a doctor to ensure they’ve been properly immunized as vaccines administered during that time may not have been reliable.

Those who travel abroad should make sure they are vaccinated for measles. Babies as young as 6 months can get an MMR if they are traveling abroad. The babies should get their MMRs on schedule and need a total of three MMRs.

The State Health Department is monitoring the situation very carefully, along with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Local health departments in each county are prepared to investigate cases and distribute vaccines or other protective measures as needed.

“As measles outbreaks occur at home and around the globe, it’s critical that New Yorkers take the necessary steps to get vaccinated, get educated and stave off the spread of this preventable disease — the safety of our communities depends on it.”

Misinformation around vaccines has in recent years contributed to a rise in vaccine hesitancy, declining vaccination rates and a black market for fraudulent vaccination records. The Department takes an active role in combating vaccination fraud. This includes work by the Department’s Bureau of Investigations identifying, investigating, and seeking impactful enforcement actions against those who falsify vaccine records, as evidenced by several recent cases announced by the Department.

Combating vaccine fraud is a collective effort that includes various stakeholders responsible for community health and safety. The Department works with schools to help them fulfill their responsibility of reviewing vaccination records for fraud. Additionally, the Department partners with the New York State Education Department, local health departments and school-nurse professional organizations around this critical effort. Moreover, the Department’s Bureau of Investigations, in particular, works to educate, engage and support police and prosecutors statewide regarding vaccination fraud, which under New York law is a felony-level criminal offense.

Measles is a highly contagious, serious respiratory disease that causes rash and fever. In some cases, measles can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight other infections like pneumonia.

Serious complications of measles include hospitalization, pneumonia, brain swelling and death. Long-term serious complications can also include  subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a brain disease resulting from an earlier measles infection that can lead to permanent brain damage.

People who are infected with measles often get “measles immune amnesia,” which causes their immune system to lose memory to fight other infections like pneumonia. In places like Africa, where measles is more common, this is the largest driver of mortality.

Measles during pregnancy increases the risk of early labor, miscarriage and low birth weight infants.

Measles is caused by a virus that is spread by coughing or sneezing into the air. Individuals can catch the disease by breathing in the virus or by touching a contaminated surface, then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Complications may include pneumonia, encephalitis, miscarriage, preterm birth, hospitalization and death.

The incubation period for measles is up to 21 days. People who are exposed to measles should quarantine 21 days after exposure and those who test positive should isolate until four days after the rash appears.

Symptoms for measles can include the following:

7-14 days, and up to 21 days after a measles infection

  • High fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes

3-5 days after symptoms begin, a rash occurs

  • The rash usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.
  • Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots.
  • The spots may become joined together as they spread from the head to the rest of the body.
  • When the rash appears, a person’s fever may spike to more than 104° Fahrenheit.

A person with measles can pass it to others as soon as four days before a rash appears and as late as four days after the rash appears.

Health care providers should report suspected measles cases to their local health department.

Visit the State Health Department’s dedicated measles website for information about the measles, immunization data and information for providers.

The State Health Department has also launched a new Global Health Update Report webpage to keep New Yorkers informed of ongoing and emerging infectious disease outbreaks. The report is updated every Friday.

Visit the CDC website for information about the measles vaccine.

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A CELEBRATION OF SISTERHOOD AND THE CHANGE What better way to honor the journey of womanhood than with a night of laughter, music, and sisterhood? ‘Menopause the Musical’ continues at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center this weekend.
Thursday March 20

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

The Jazz Loft’s Swing Into Swing Festival 2025 continues today and runs through March 22 with opportunities to hear live Jazz music throughout the community at five local restaurants in the Stony Brook/East Setauket area. L  For the full festival schedule, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Lunch and Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch and Learn series at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. as Tara Rider will present “The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick.” The most famous American witch-hunt began in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts. Yet, more than three decades before that notorious event, Long Island had its very own witchcraft trial — the trial of Goody Garlick! $55 per person, $45 members includes a gourmet two-course meal and dessert. Cash bar available. For tickets, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Spring Bingo

The Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai will hold a free bingo event sponsored by The Bristal of Mt. Sinai  from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bingo cards will be provided. Open to Town of Brookhaven residents age 60 and older. Free. To register, call 631-451-5312.

Women’s Recognition Awards

Town of Brookhaven will host the39th Annual Women’s Recognition Night at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville at 6:30 p.m. The event, which is open to the public, is sponsored by the Town’s Office of Women’s Services, Department of General Services. All are welcome to attend. 631-451-6146

Friday March 21 

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 20 listing.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 604 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Frances Campani for an enriching Gallery Tour of the gallery’s current exhibit, Figure and Form. Campani will offer a unique perspective on her own works as well as the broader themes of the show. Free. No registration  required. 631-751-7707

WinterTide Concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson presents Marci Geller in concert from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. Free will donation at the door. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and GPJAC. 631-473-5220

Hispanic Heritage Night

The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, RJO Middle School, 101 Church St., Kings Park presents Hispanic Heritage Night at 7 p.m. Enjoy an acoustic evening with Nick Sassano, a tribute to Latin divas by Linda Miller and more. Free admission. 631-269-3305

Sound Symphony Concert

Comsewogue Public High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station hosts a concert by the Sound Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Maestro Dorothy Savitch, the program will include works by Schumann, Tchaikovsky and more. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students at the door. Children under the age of 12 are free. www.soundsymphony.org.

Rhythm India head to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Main Stage performance by Rhythm India: Bollywood & Beyond at 8 p.m. Vibrant costumes, dynamic music, and stirring rhythms echo the heartbeats of South Asia’s royal palaces and sacred temples, desert villages and modern stages. Created by director and choreographer Joya Kazi, Rhythm India is a joyous commemoration of India’s diverse culture! Tickets range from $48 to $71. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Saturday March 22

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 20 listing.

HealthyU Workshop

Take part in Mather Hospital’s free HealthyU Spring Semester workshop focused on your physical, emotional and financial well-being at The Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Choose from six health seminars and visit a health fair. To register and to view the complete schedule, visit www.matherhospital.org/healthyU.

Repair Café at the Library
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a Repair Café from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. where knowledgeable volunteers will help to repair your broken items and offer advice and inspiration. No registration required. Just drop in! For more information, call 631-928-1212.

Downsizing for Seniors luncheon

Howard Hanna Coach Realtors of Port Jefferson invites seniors looking to downsize to a FREE educational luncheon at the VFW Post 3054,  8 Jones Street, Setauket from noon to 2 p.m. A panel of experts will be on hand to explore the planning and process of Downsizing for Seniors with a focus on housing options for seniors, addressing the challenges of buying a selling a property, financing issues and options, repairs and maintenance, Trusts and Estates and more.  Whether you are looking to make a move this year of sometime down the road, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Lunch and prizes for all attendees as well as all your questions answered. Registration is required by calling 631-994-0082 or go to https://bit.ly/DownsizerWorkshop.

Celebrating Irish Music

Join Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook for a concert celebrating Irish music with Tom Donovan at 2 p.m. No registration required. For more information, call 631-588-5024.

Grand Opening Celebration

Join Optical Outfitters, 158 East Main Street, Suite 2, Port Jefferson for a grand re-opening celebration from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to view the new spring collection. For more information, call 631-928-6401.

Sunday March 23

Model Train Show

The St James Model Railroad Club will host an Open House at the Mills Pond House, 176 Mills Pond Road, St. James from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This 38’ X 48” Lionel train layout, the result of 42 years of continuing improvements, represents Railroading from the Age of Steam to Present Day with many freight and passenger trains running simultaneously in a scenic, imaginative setting. Children of all ages will enjoy the sights and sounds of this truly impressive event. Suggested donations are $2 for adults, 50 cents for children. 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732.

NHS lecture

Did you know that a visit to Gardiners Island led to famed pirate Captain Kidd dying on the gallows in London? Or that the Atlantic Ocean off the South Shore became known as Rum Row during Prohibition? Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for an illuminating talk titled “Maritime Smuggling on Long Island: From Pirates to Rumrunners” with historian, author and former Newsday reporter Bill Bleyer at 1 p.m. and discover all about Long Island’s fascinating maritime past, from pirates to bootleggers. Tickets are $15, $12 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

Joe Piket in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Joe Piket, a two-time finalist in the Long Island Music Festival and four-time winner in the Best of Long Island Entertainer of the Year poll, at 3 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce presents the 55th annual Ronkonkoma St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 2 p.m. Grand Marshal Dan Moloney will lead the parade from Amvets Post 48, 660 Hawkins Ave. at School Street, south down Hawkins Ave. ending at Thorne Street. 631-304-6303, www.ronkonkomaparade.org 

Monday March 24

Community Blood Drive

Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will host a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. If you or anyone you know would like to make an appointment, all 1-800-933-2566.

SHS Spring Lecture

Join the Smithtown Historical Society at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown for a spring lecture titled Long Island Lighthouses from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Robert G. Müller of the Long Island Chapter, of the US Lighthouse Society, will offer an in-depth look at over 20 local light stations spanning more than 200 years. Through a combination of historic and contemporary images, it explores the intricate details of lighthouse construction and the compelling stories of lightkeepers’ lives. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. No reservations required. 631-265-6768.

Tuesday March 25

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a presentation by Francine Holland on the “Pillars of Brain Health” at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

An Evening of Comedy

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a Comedy Night at 8 p.m.  Come have some laughs, enjoy some cocktails, and listen to some very funny comedians! $45 per person. For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Wednesday March 26

No events listed for this day.

Thursday March 27

Community Blood Drive

Farmingville Fire Department, 780 Horseblock Road, Farmingville will hold a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Participating donors will receive a coupon for a pint of your choice of Italian ice at the Farmingville location. All donors will also receive a hero, salad and refreshments. For questions, call 516-310-2382.

Library Blood Drive

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road Port Jefferson Station will hold a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments are suggested but walk-ins are welcome. To determine eligibility or make an appointment please call New York Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566 or visit www.cplib.org/BloodDrive. 631-928-1212

Music Bingo Fundraiser

Smithtown Children’s Foundation will hold a Music Bingo fundraiser at the Elks Lodge, 120 Edgewood Ave., Smithtown at 6 p.m. Join them for dinner and dancing to benefit the Smithtown Central School Districts’ Business School scholarships. Tickets are $50 per person. To register, visit www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church, 61 Main St., Stony Brook presents an evening of Native American Drumming Meditations from 7 p.m. to 8 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

‘Here’

Join Comsewogue Public LIbrary, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of Here starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright on March 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. To reserve your spot, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘A Man with Sole’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 20 at 7 p.m. which chronicles the rise of renowned fashion entrepreneur, Kenneth Cole, from his scrappy start selling shoes through to his current day success. The screening will be followed by a conversation with Director Dori Berinstein. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Gattaca: and the Science of Genetics’

As part of National Science on Screen® Day, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen the 1997 sci-fi thriller Gattaca: and the Science of Genetics on March 25 at 7:30 p.m. Following the film, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Geneticist W. Richard McCombie will present a lecture and discussion on the fascinating science of genetics. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Facing the Wind’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Facing the Wind at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 27 at 7 p.m. The film examines the connection forged between two women as they care for their spouses stricken with Lewy Body dementia. Director Deirdre Fishel will join the post-film discussion in person with Cindy Morris of the Benson Agency. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

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 15 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.

‘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. The show captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. 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. 

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it 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 go to www.engemantheater.com.

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.