Bindi Irwin with her new children's book. Photo from Facebook
By Melissa Arnold
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, conservationist Steve Irwin was a fixture on our televisions, and with good reason. His depth of knowledge, passion for wildlife, and iconic Aussie accent (“Crikey!”) made him easy to love. His tragic death during a 2006 documentary filming led to international mourning, and it’s hard to think of anyone else who has made such a longstanding difference for animals or the planet.
Irwin’s love for the natural world was in his DNA: his father was a reptile expert and his mother a wildlife rehabilitator. Today, both of his children are carrying on the family mission: daughter Bindi and son Robert Irwin are still living and working at the Australia Zoo founded by their grandparents in 1970, doing television appearances and using their individual talents to promote wildlife conservation.
Now 26, Bindi Irwin recently published a picture book for kids, You Are A Wildlife Warrior!: Saving Animals and the Planet, co-authored with Smita Prasadam-Halls [Random House Children’s Books]. Inspired by her childhood and her own young daughter, 4-year-old Grace, Bindi gives readers a peek inside life at the zoo with skillful rhymes.
Using simple language, Bindi explains that the world is full of animals that need our support and respect, and that there are things everyone can do to help the cause. Scientists learn about animals; zookeepers and veterinarians care for them; and all of us can work together to protect the environment and the world we share.
The book’s real magic is in the illustrations by Ramona Kaulitzki. Each page features several different kinds of animals with brilliant accuracy and adorable expressions. Bindi and Grace walk through the zoo together, checking in on the parrots, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, koalas, kangaroos and many others on their rounds. The lush nature scenes and all the little details will easily transport the imagination to Australia. Adult readers can help kids learn more about the animals with interesting facts found in the margins — even this writer picked up some new trivia.
Bindi includes two letters to readers in the front and back of the book. The first focuses on her desire to include children in conservation efforts, especially after seeing the wonder and joy Grace feels around animals.
The ending letter is for a general audience and reflects on her childhood with her dad, including several sweet pictures from her early years. She also shares more about the various animal welfare projects her family has launched around the world.
All told, You Are A Wildlife Warrior! is a fantastic introduction to the Irwin family for a new generation. Ideally, they’ll see the pictures of Bindi and Grace helping animals and feel inspired to help out in their own way. As Bindi writes in the closing letter, it doesn’t take much to get started:
“You don’t have to be a conservationist to have compassion for the living beings we share the earth with. The littlest of things can make a big difference for our planet: Invest in a reusable water bottle, recycle, plant a tree, start an insect or bird garden in your backyard, turn off the tap when you brush your teeth, volunteer at a wildlife organization in your area, take part in a beach or park cleanup day, never purchase products made from wild animals,” Bindi writes. “Believe in your strength to make a huge impact, and never underestimate the power of a kind gesture. That kindness can change the world.
You Are A Wildlife Warrior! by Bindi Irwin is available at Barnes and Noble and on Amazon. For more about the Irwin family, visit www.wildlifewarrors.org.au.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21.
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
By Fr. Francis Pizzarelli
Fr. Francis Pizzarelli
On the Monday after Easter at the age of 88, Francis, the humble servant of the Roman Catholic Church died in his sleep after 12 extraordinary years of service to the church and to the world.
Francis, a Jesuit priest committed to the poor and vulnerable among us, became an Archbishop and then a cardinal from Argentina. He spent his whole life ministering to the poor and the marginal among us. From his earliest days to his last day, he lived simply, loved exponentially and always walked with the poor.
As Pope he was a reformer; he did not amend the doctrine of the Catholic Church but found powerful pastoral ways to make the church the church of the people. His powerful pastoral example was an ongoing reminder that we must welcome those who feel unwelcome to our community.
As Pope, he constantly called us to radical inclusiveness. I will never forget that statement. He so powerfully reminded all of us that God welcomes everyone without imposing shame or guilt.
As a Roman Catholic priest, I admired the Holy Father’s constant reminder that as Catholics we must be committed to social justice and reaching out to the most vulnerable among us without judgment.
Francis was such a powerful role model for everyone, but especially for priests like myself. He constantly reminded us by his power of example of what we all must be about. His compassion and his empathy have inspired me to stay the course.
Hopefully, the conclave, which elects a new Pope, will do so in the spirit of Pope Francis, a man of compassion and empathy who will challenge us to live the gospel, even when it’s difficult. I hope this new Pope will be as committed to the poor and the marginal as Francis was.
These are crazy times that we live in. The world is paralyzed and polarized and so is our nation. Francis was a man committed to peace and social justice. He practiced what he preached his entire life. He did not just talk the talk, he walked the walk.
We have been very blessed to have had this simple Jesuit priest from Argentina as our Pope. He reminds us by the way in which he lived of the gift of hope and how we should all try to live each and every day.
In January, Pope Francis declared that this was a year dedicated to hope. On Tuesday, April 22, Hope House Ministries celebrated 45 years of ministering to the poor and most vulnerable in our midst. As its founder, I’ve spent 45 years believing in the power of hope and that people can change, be transformed and reclaim their lives.
Father Francis Pizzarelli, SMM, LCSW-R, ACSW, DCSW, is the director of Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.
Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
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Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Michel Vasquez (Priscilla Preslley) and Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) and ensemble in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Sarah Rose (Ann Margaret) and Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Joe Caskey (Elvis Presley) in a scene from 'Heartbreak Hotel,' Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
By Rita J. Egan
Ninety years after Elvis’s birth, his music still resonates with rock ‘n’ roll fans. Currently, at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport, the cast of the biographical musical Heartbreak Hotel are presenting a production overflowing with talent to celebrate the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s legacy and music.
With book by Sean Cercone and David Abbinanti, Heartbreak Hotel is based on a concept by Floyd Mutrux, one of the co-writers of Million Dollar Quartet. The musical shares Elvis’s journey from his younger days to the singer’s comeback television special in 1968. The production offers nostalgia for older fans and a bit of rock ‘n’ roll history for younger audiences.
The fast-paced production, which has been performed in regional theaters across the United States but never on Broadway, encompasses more than 40 of the singer’s hits, including “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Jailhouse Rock” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” For the Northport stage, Engeman’s director and choreographer, Paul Stancato, has created an energetic and engaging show.
As the musical opens, we see Elvis Presley mentally preparing for The Comeback Special in 1968. He receives a visit from his younger self, who advises that maybe the answers aren’t in the future but in the past. Throughout the musical, the audience witnesses the singer’s rise to fame and flashbacks to his younger days and humble beginnings. His love for Gospel music and the sounds of Beale Street in Memphis, where his family moved to from Tupelo, Mississippi, when he was a young teen, are beautifully commemorated.
When touching on the singer’s setbacks, the production handles it gracefully by giving enough details but not diving too deep, keeping the musical as upbeat as possible despite some of the downsides of his career.
Joe Caskey, as Elvis, understands the assignment. He embraces the confidence, moves and voice of the King without coming across as a campy impersonator. His vocals are strong, whether belting out “Jailhouse Rock” or serenading baby daughter Lisa Marie with a tearjerking “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Caskey’s acting abilities are center stage during Act II, especially earlier in the act when it’s apparent that the weight of Elvis’s career and the responsibilities that come with it — including keeping his staff employed — are weighing heavily on him.
Spencer Chase is impressive as a young Elvis Presley. Like Caskey, the teenager has a confidence that one can imagine even young Elvis having. At the same time, he possesses the enthusiasm of a boy falling in love with music.
Pamela Bob, as Gladys Presley, is ideal as the loving mother, and her and Chase’s singing of “Peace in the Valley” is heartwarming.
Michel Vasquez plays Priscilla Presley and seamlessly transitions from the young woman exuding enthusiasm for her new love to the frustrated wife vying for his attention as he is distracted by other women.
Sara Rose is delightful as Elvis’s first girlfriend, Dixie. The actress shines even more later in the musical when she plays actress, singer and dancer Ann-Margaret. Rose’s powerful dance moves also take center stage during other numbers.
William Thomas Evans, as Col. Tom Parker, captures the sleaziness of Elvis’s manager. Matthew Schatz is perfect as Sam Phillips, demonstrating the record producer’s stress earlier in the musical and later his enthusiasm in promoting Elvis’s music to DJs. Playing another Phillips is Jeff Gallup, who as DJ Dewy Phillips captures the era’s energy. Hailey Aviva, as Sam Philips’ secretary, Marion Keisker, also adds to the vibrancy of the production. Matt Allen plays both Vernon Presley and Frank Sinatra and is fun to watch playing Sinatra, emulating the crooner’s mannerisms and accent.
Audiences should be prepared for toe-tapping even before the Elvis hits begin with “Welcome to Beale St.” sung by Troy Valjean Rucker, Tarik Ziegler, Lena Richard, Danielle McKnight, Chase and the ensemble. A few scenes later, Ziegler is a scene stealer as Reverend Brewster during the number “This Train is Bound for Glory.”
What makes this musical so unique is the actors playing instruments right on stage instead of an orchestra. The technique makes one feel as if they are actually at a live performance, especially during the closing act, when Caskey is in full concert mode. While several of the actors play instruments, Noah Berry, Chris Coffey and Luke Surretsky, as Elvis’s band members, are on stage most of the show and easily juggle acting and playing instruments.
The show’s cast and crew have gone above and beyond to produce a show that honors the musical legacy that Elvis left behind. During the cold, dark winter months, the Engeman’s Heartbreak Hotel is a shining star, just like the legend the musical honors.
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main Street, Northport, presents Heartbreak Hotel through March 2. Tickets start at $82. For more information, call 631-261-2900 or visit engemantheater.com.
Dr. Joseph Rella at his last graduation ceremony at Comsewogue High School in 2019.
File photo by Kyle Barr/TBR News Media
The Suffolk County Legislature has approved naming Port Jefferson Station’s Terryville Greenbelt in honor of former Comsewogue School District Superintendent Dr. Joseph Rella. The initiative was led by Legislator Kara Hahn, in honor of the highly regarded teacher, principal and administrator who passed away in February 2020 at the age of 69.
Described as “one of the most courageous and inspiring educators ever,” Dr. Rella began his 25-year career with the Comsewogue School District as a part-time music teacher at John F. Kennedy Middle School. He also served as principal of Comsewogue High School prior to becoming school superintendent in 2011, a post he held until his retirement from the district in 2019.
“Dr. Rella was absolutely beloved in the community. Every child in the Comsewogue School District knew he cared about them, knew he believed in them and knew he loved them,” said Legislator Hahn. “His impact upon the district, his students’ lives and this community have been profound and through this tribute we honor the lasting legacy of his actions.”
Located within the Central Suffolk Special Groundwater Protection Area, the Terryville Greenbelt is situated between Route 112 and North Bicycle Path in Port Jefferson Station.The greenbelt area is over 75 total acres that Suffolk County and the Town of Brookhaven have each pursued preserving through individual and joint purchases of open space parcels.
“The Terryville Greenbelt adjoins Comsewogue High School so forever linking this preserved land to the school where Dr. Rella served and to the greater community seems fitting,” said Leg. Hahn.
The bill, which has been co-sponsored by neighboring Legislators Sarah Anker and Nick Caracappa, now goes to County Executive Steve Bellone for his signature. It is anticipated that once the naming becomes official, a ceremony will be held in recognition of Dr. Rella’s contribution to education and to his community.
“Dr. Rella cultivated a community where people came together and respected one another in all of their differences. His mission was we are one, working together to be the best we can be. His focus was always to ensure the best for the students and their families” said Joseph Coniglione, Comsewogue SD Assistant Superintendent for Staff and Student Services.
“He created a culture of kindness throughout his career and having a wellness space dedicated in his memory is a tremendous honor for his family, our schools and this community.”
Herb Mones, right, announced the Three Village Community Trust’s new challenge grant in honor of Maria Hoffman. Her husband, George, above left, was on hand for the announcement on Sept. 27. Photo above by Rita J. Egan
Three Village Community Trust members gathered in Setauket for a special announcement Sept. 27.
Maria Hoffman. Photo by Robert Reuter
Standing in front of the Bruce House headquarters on Main Street, TVCT president Herb Mones announced the kickoff of the Maria Hoffman $50,000 Challenge Grant campaign. Hoffman was a land trust member and an aide to state Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket).
Mones said nearly $10,000 had already been raised toward the goal. A $50,000 matching grant was acquired from the state by Englebright earlier this year, and Mones said the funds raised would go toward the restoration of historical properties in the Three Village community and the land trust’s operational costs.
Mones said Hoffman “impacted so much of what we have inside of this community on a continual basis, and provided the services that often we needed through a legislative office. She did it with grace, she did it with dignity and she always did it quietly.”
Englebright described Hoffman as “the right-hand side of my brain.”
“I think it’s appropriate that we recognize her and remember her to continue her legacy,” the assemblyman said, adding she was the “brains behind the whole operation” at his office.
He also talked about Hoffman’s sense of place that she memorialized through her work and with her photography and artwork, too.
Hoffman’s husband, George, was also in attendance. He said his wife loved the Three Village area and Setauket Harbor. The Bruce House was a spot Maria Hoffman always cherished. When the home was up for sale before they met in 2009, she was looking for a house but knew it would be too small if she were to marry one day. He added she was also excited when the immigrant worker homes were moved to the location from their former site near the Setauket firehouse down the street.
In addition to the state matching grant, Investors Bank recently gave TVCT a separate $4,000 grant. These funds will go toward restoring the immigrant worker houses which need work, such as replacing deteriorated exterior siding and damaged interior wallboard.
Bold colors, rich compositions, lush imagery. Gallery North invites individuals to immerse themselves in the resplendent renderings and impactful art by late contemporary artist Stan Brodsky with Recastings: Stan Brodsky, a memorial retrospective on view from Aug. 11 to Sept. 18. An opening reception will be held on Aug. 11 from 6 to 8 p.m.
“Stan is a very influential artist to many artists practicing right now in our area. We felt it was important to show his work, keep it being viewed by the public and continuing to influence other artists. He has a great collection of work that is still available. The work itself is timeless and it’s important for it to be out there,” said Curator Kate Schwarting.
‘Edge of Summer’ by Stan Brodsky
Brodsky, who died in 2019 at the age of 94, was an artist and educator based out of Huntington. Recastings, the third solo exhibit at Gallery North of the artist’s work, is a cultivated exploration of Brodsky’s more abstract art.
Through his 75 year career, Brodsky created both representational and abstract art. The 1960s and 1970s were mainly periods of representational art, but by the 1980s, Brodsky was incorporating different texture, tones, and styles — developing the abstract techniques he would continue to cultivate for the next 40 years.
Recastings primarily highlights the pieces he created during this era. The exhibit includes approximately 15 oil on canvas paintings of various sizes as well as large framed works on paper, unframed works on paper, oil on paper, and mixed media pieces, reflecting three hallmarks of his career: a powerful command of color, a profound connection to nature, and the support he provided to other artists.
Color is a dynamic and defining character in Brodsky’s art, recognized by each individual interviewed for this article, while nature is a recurrent catalyst and muse.
“Stan Brodsky was renowned for his use of color. One critic called his colors ‘unnameable.’ The paintings change with the light, and so provide endless fascination,” Jeanne Hewitt, Brodsky’s widow and Trustee of the Stan Brodsky Trust, said.
‘Sun and Soil’ by Stan Brodsky
The artist’s distinct use of color showcases the power of his brushstrokes and indicates the impression of the natural world on his work. According to Schwarting, these traits allow a larger audience to relate to Brodsky’s art and are part of what drew her and Gallery North’s Executive Director Ned Puchner to the art that they chose to display.
“There are all different ways to connect with [Brodsky’s] work His use of color is really incredible —the color just vibrates, it is so vibrant and electric; his inspiration from nature; and his mark making is exquisite. There are so many details in his pieces, the push and pull, the layering, each one is very complex,” Schwarting said.
The exhibit is the continuation of a nearly 50 year relationship between Brodsky/his estate and Gallery North. Brodsky exhibited his work nationally and internationally but always maintained and nurtured his ties to the local artistic community of Long Island, including acting as teacher and mentor to many working artists in the area.
“He encouraged and taught other artists up until a few months before his death…Stan was beloved for the encouragement he offered to other artists, and for the help he offered,” Hewitt said.
Delving into Brodsky’s imprint on artists, “Stan Clan: Discussion on Brodsky’s Influence,” a panel talk with six of Brodsky’s former students reflecting on how he affected their creative development, will be held on Aug. 31 at 6 p.m.
When asked about this event, Puchner said he was most looking forward to the stories about Brodsky and his philosophy.
“It seems like he was such a charismatic, emotional person. When watching some of the videos of his previous talks, you see he was not afraid to talk about things like love and the more heightened emotional aspects of the creative process. What elements of his creative process have been picked up by the next generation of his students? How that was imparted to his students and how they and whether they continue to do that themselves will be really interesting,” he added.
Artist Doug Reina, who recently had a solo exhibit at Gallery North and will be one of the guests at the panel discussion, views Brodsky’s roles as artist and educator to be lasting gifts. “For those who know and appreciate his work, Stan Brodsky will always be remembered as a great painter who combined gorgeous colors, shapes, and compositions in a truly unique way,” he said. “For those lucky to have been his students, he will be remembered for his deep knowledge of painting that he always shared so generously. Perhaps the most important part of his legacy is how he helped so many artists grow, to take chances, to push beyond their limits.”
Reina will be joined at the discussion by fellow artists Susan Rostan, Peter Galasso, Marceil Kazickas, Ellen Hallie Schiff, and Alicia R. Peterson, each of whom studied and/or worked with Brodsky.
As a complement to the exhibit, on August 24 at 6 p.m., Art of NYC and Long Island, in conjunction with Brodsky’s estate, will provide a presentation at the gallery about art conservation techniques: identifying and treating condition issues in paintings, works on paper, and also sculptures. The exhibit, panel discussion, reception, and presentation are free and open to the public. A photo catalogue with a short essay about Brodsky and his art will be available to visitors.
Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket, is open Wednesdays to Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Recastings: Stan Brodsky is sponsored by Nancy Goroff, Jefferson’s Ferry, bid Architecture, and Suffolk County’s Department of Economic Development and Planning. For more information, call 631-751-2676 or visit www.gallerynorth.org.
Observing Dogwood Hollow documents at East Hampton Libarry, from left, Deborah Boudreau, WMHO Education Director; Mayra Scanlon, East Hampton Library Archivist Librarian; Andrea Meyer, East Hampton Library Archivist Librarian, Collection Chair; and Sean Brass, WMHO's Young Gardiner Scholar, funded by the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation. Photo from WMHO
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced the digitization of over 500 records of Dogwood Hollow and the development of Stony Brook Village Center in conjunction with the East Hampton Library’s Long Island Collection. These records are available to the public free of charge on a “next generation” interactive platform. The archives can be found online on the East Hampton Library website, easthamptonlibrary.org.
In November of 2021, East Hampton Library announced a new virtual research platform for their Long Island Collection. The research platform was customized for the East Hampton Library, which is the first public library to use this next generation digital archives software, called TIND.
Ward Melville at Stony Brook Village Center’s Harbor Crescent in the 1950s. Photo from WMHO
Unlike other archive platforms being used in New York State, this digital archive is entirely interactive—contributor accounts can be created, higher resolution images can be downloaded and links are embedded to enable viewers to comment and share archived items on social media platforms. To learn more about Digital Long Island, the East Hampton Library’s new digitization platform, visit their website at digitallongisland.org.
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) was created in 1939 by businessman and philanthropist Ward Melville. Ward Melville was President of the Melville Corporation—the third largest retailer in the country at that time. WMHO owns and manages historic and environmental properties deeded to the organization by Ward Melville. These properties include Stony Brook Village Center, Thompson House (c. 1709), the Brewster House (c. 1665), the Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751), the Erwin Ernst Marine Conservation Center and the 88-acre wetlands preserve at West Meadow.
The WMHO archives on this platform include the creation of Stony Brook Village Center and Dogwood Hollow. Considered the first business community in the United States, Stony Brook Village Center was created in 1941 by Ward Melville. In addition, in honor of his mother, Jennie, who loved dogwood trees, Ward Melville created Dogwood Hollow, a 2,000 plus seat amphitheater in Stony Brook Village that hosted greats such as Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Count Basie and over 100 other musicians.
Other subjects that will be digitized are Mr. Melville’s history of bringing Stony Brook University to Stony Brook, the creation of the Long Island Museum campus, the restoration of historic properties, the housing developments built by Ward Melville, the creation of the West Meadow Preserve, and the creation of the Three Village School District and its buildings. To learn more about the WMHO, visit wmho.org.
Maria Hoffman, above center, receives a proclamation from the Town of Brookhaven from Supervisor Ed Romaine, left, and Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich at the Three Village Community Trust gala last year. Below, Maria spending time on the water. Photo by Patricia Paladines
The Three Village community is mourning the passing of Maria Hoffman, who was chief of staff to New York State Assemblyman Steve Englebright for nearly three decades.
Maria Hoffman enjoys some time on the water. Photo from George Hoffman
According to her husband, George Hoffman, the Setauket resident died April 29 of metastatic breast cancer, which she bravely battled on and off since being first diagnosed in 2010.
Maria and George married in 2009 in Frank Melville Memorial Park. It was the second marriage for both. “When Maria and I married, I moved to Setauket from the South Shore,” he said. “She was Assemblyman Englebright’s chief of staff and had an extensive network of friends and colleagues. She loved the Three Village community and was involved with every aspect of it. I always tell people that she gave me an express ticket to the front of the line with all of the leaders of the Three Village community.”
In a November 2019 Village Times Herald article, Maria shared advice for a successful relationship: “We also make time for things that are important, whether it’s walking or in the summertime boating — being on a sailboat. We make time to balance all the busyness.”
Born on Oct. 14, 1958, Maria was a 40-year resident of the Three Village community. A graduate of the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, where she received a Human Ecology degree, Maria was familiar with busyness. In addition to being Englebright’s chief of staff, she was also an avid photographer of landscapes and wildlife, a writer, beekeeper, birder, sailor, naturalist, a co-founder of the Setauket Harbor Task Force and a lover of wolves, whales, elephants and bees.
She was an illustrator of field guides on seashores, wetlands and woodlands. In a collaborative effort with Stony Brook University’s Museum of Long Island Natural Sciences, her illustrations can be seen in “A Field Guide to Long Island’s Woodlands,” “A Field Guide to Long Island’s Freshwater Wetlands” and “A Field Guide to Long Island’s Seashore.”
Maria was also a wonderful, helpful friend and frequent contributor to The Village Times Herald. Whenever a reporter was unavailable to cover a local event that she attended, she would always be willing to send in her own photos. Her nature photography also appeared in the Arts & Lifestyle section of TBR News Media papers.
State Assemblyman Steve Englebright, left, and Maria Hoffman, center. Photo by Patricia Paladines
Colleagues and friends honor Maria
Englebright and Maria’s working relationship goes back to when he was director of the Museum of Long Island Natural Sciences in the 1960s. He secured a state grant to develop a water resources curriculum for Long Island schools, he said, and Maria interviewed for a position to help develop the curriculum. Englebright said she was a standout due to her photography, illustrating and writing skills. Once the project was completed Maria continued to work with the museum and Englebright. For the museum, she illustrated public education pamphlets, booklets and newsletters and also would write.
“I had the great, good fortune of being able to hire her, and I was able to retain her,” he said. “She was extraordinarily productive in public service in the preelected office capacity, too.”
Maria continued to work with Englebright when he became county legislator and then assemblyman, and he said even though she wasn’t originally from the Three Village area she made a point to learn about the community when he was running for legislator.
“She began to realize what a wonderful part of Long Island we live in, and she really enjoyed learning about the legislative reach of the office, and it opened a new vista of capability of serving,” he said.
Englebright added that Maria’s skills were based “on how she cared for everyone she met.” He said he will miss how genuine she was, and that many related to her which enhanced everything his office was involved in.
“It’s not possible to replace her,” he said. “Certainly, we can continue to do the work that she invested so much of her life into, as long as we remember and honor the work that she has done.”
Laurie Vetere, chair of the Setauket Harbor Task Force, described Maria as “an integral and founding member” of the task force, along with George.
“She loved taking pictures of the harbor and its marine life and waterfowl which were compiled into our annual calendar that we gave as a thank-you to our donors,” she said. “Her photography was stunning. She also loved going out on the water at daybreak to do the water testing that we do for Save the Sound, and she would spend hours the night before calibrating the scientific equipment that we utilized. She was one of our most ardent volunteers and she was an activist who lived her life trying to protect the environment both locally and around the world.”
In November, Three Village Community Trust honored Maria at its annual Fall Fundraising Gala at the Old Field Club. TVCT recognized her contributions as an artist, photographer and naturalist, and called her “everybody’s best friend.”
TVCT president Herb Mones said Maria touched countless people during her lifetime
“It was heartwarming to see so many people come together on that evening to honor Maria,” Mones said of the gala. “It was a who’s who of elected officials, community leaders, friends and neighbors that praised Maria as a unique figure in guiding, directing and helping in ‘all things Three Villages.’ Maria never wanted the spotlight on herself — but, thankfully on that night, Maria lit up the room. She was involved in everything and anything that touched our community — historical preservation, open space protection, environmental issues. There was no issue too large or small that Maria wasn’t part of — and always with a smile on her face. Her involvement was done with a quiet style and grace, and while her voice was soft and light — her influence was great. Anyone who enjoys West Meadow Beach, the Greenway, the cultural, historical and art institutions in the area — they all need to give thanks to Maria’s legacy.”
Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich also commented on Maria’s influence on the community.
“She was a beautiful and gentle person, humble and kind and wise and funny, and her life touched so many in the community who were lucky enough to know her,” he said. “She gathered beauty through her eyes and through the lens of her camera, and shared kindness and compassion to everyone she met. Although she has taken her last breath in this world, her warmth remains. Goodbye, Maria — you are loved, and you will be missed.”
Patricia Paladines, naturalist and environmentalist, said sometimes, while Maria was waiting for treatment at Sloan Kettering, she would text her photos of fish swimming around the waiting room fish tank. Paladines described her as “a beautiful sprite, friend to all.”
Photo by Robert Reuter
She said she had texted Maria after the TVCT gala: “Thank you for all you have preserved in this community because you were sensitive to its beauty and historical importance. Sleep well dear friend knowing you are loved and appreciated by so many.”
“I repeat now, ‘Sleep well dear friend knowing you are loved and appreciated by so many.’”
Paladines’ husband, Carl Safina, author and environmentalist, also remembered Maria fondly.
“In the forty-plus years that I knew Maria, she was always devoted to helping other people do their best work in the world,” he said. “She never wanted the credit that was due her. But a lot of good work by many people would not have been as good if Maria hadn’t laid the foundation and built the frame.”
Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn remembered Maria for her community as well as worldly contributions.
“In spirit, Maria was a photographer, who intently focused on capturing the essence of a moment while ensuring her presence wasn’t a distraction from it,” she said. “In life, Maria was a humble leader who embraced the approach she used behind the camera throughout her professional career to serve her neighbors and improve our community. Maria’s compassion for all creatures from the bees, which she tended, to the advocacy for the protection of elephants and elimination of big game hunting in Africa. She approached all things with a quiet tenacity and gentle hand. Maria will leave a legacy of friendship and generosity that will be cherished by all those whose lives she touched.”
An outdoor gathering for Maria’s friends and colleagues is being planned for Saturday, May 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Three Village Community Trust grounds at The Bruce House, 148 Main St., Setauket. Attendees are welcome to share their stories about Maria.
Nick Wolber surroundedd by friends at the first Support The Kid Founder’s Event fundraiser before he passed away from cancer. Photo from Anna Wolber
Before Nicholas Wolber passed away, he had a major goal — to create a nonprofit that would help children and their families who are experiencing the stresses of cancer.
Wolber was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma — a rare form of soft tissue childhood cancer — in December 2005 at the age of 22.
After going through chemotherapy and radiation he lived his life for almost five years cancer free, unfortunately returning in his chest with a fatal diagnosis.
But according to his mother, Anna, Nick knew he wanted to create an organization that would help the children he met while staying at Cohen’s Children’s Hospital.
“He was always in the children’s ward,” she said. “He was the big brother and loved the kids there.”
Anna said that before he died, he raised money, planned and got everything together to establish “Support The Kid,” a completely volunteer-based nonprofit where money goes directly to families in need.
“He wanted the money to go directly to the families,” she said. “They can use it for travel or whatever is not covered by insurance … We know what they’re going through.”
Wolber passed surrounded by loved ones in 2011 at the age of 28, but luckily was able to see the organization come to fruition officially in 2010.
The first year, they hosted what would become an annual fundraiser where people could gather, eat, drink and buy raffle tickets for different baskets.
“He was there at the first one,” Anna said. “It was good — He got to see it and he knew everything was going to be okay.”
The 11th annual Support The Kid Founder’s Event fundraiser will be held this week on Thursday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. People are welcomed at Miller’s Ale House in Lake Grove to raise funds and help those suffering from cancer.
According to Support The Kid, since its inception, the nonprofit has donated over $700,000 to more than 180 children across the country. Originally founded here in Port Jefferson Station, they now have teams in New York, California, Oklahoma and Texas spreading the word.
Thursday’s event will be the first fundraiser in-person for the group since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Anna said that she knows her son is looking down smiling at what his family has accomplished in his name for others.
JoJo LaRosa, #18, takes to the field with his fellow Ward Melville High School lacrosse players in 2017. That year, the lacrosse team won the state championship. Photo by John Dielman
The memory of a young man from Stony Brook has inspired a lacrosse jamboree that will raise money for scholarships for Ward Melville High School student-athletes.
Joseph “JoJo” LaRosa
Joseph “JoJo” LaRosa graduated from WMHS in 2017 and left behind an impressive sports legacy, and in the few years after high school, he taught the community about courage.
This past August, LaRosa died after a battle with the cancer desmoplastic small round cell tumor sarcoma. The form of cancer started soon after he graduated from WMHS. While he had beaten DSRCT, before his passing, LaRosa went in to have surgery that would have involved a full abdominal transplant due to complications caused by radiation treatment he had received. He didn’t survive the surgery.
David Ratner, whose son Dylan has been friends with LaRosa since early elementary school, is part of a five-person committee that is organizing the JoJo Strong Jamboree that will take place Saturday, Nov. 27, at the high school. The proceeds from the benefit lacrosse tournament will go toward the Joseph “JoJo” LaRosa Memorial Scholarship Foundation at WMHS. The goal is to assist scholar-athletes for years to come, according to Ratner.
Lacrosse was chosen for the benefit as LaRosa was part of the 2017 state champion lacrosse team at WMHS. The day will include a tournament and clinic for young athletes as well as Ward Melville alumni competing against teams from Adelphi University and Smithtown. The day also will include an “Old Skool” men’s tournament and fastest shot competition.
Ratner said the relationship that he, his wife Julie and son had with LaRosa and has with his mom Gina Mastrantoni could be described as unbreakable ever since the two moved around the corner from the family.
“He basically lived in my house for the last 17 years, so he was almost like my adopted son,” Ratner said.
For a while, Ratner’s son played lacrosse with LaRosa, until Dylan Ratner switched to tennis. The boys used to play lacrosse on the family’s driveway and street, too.
“The neighborhood was a field of dreams for these kids,” the father said. “They would run around and play in the dark, and it was like the old times.”
In addition to lacrosse, LaRosa was a kicker for Patriots football after playing soccer for years. Ratner described LaRosa as a great sportsman.
“It was really a great role for him, and it really showed his leadership character,” Ratner said. “You can win or lose a game based upon your one kick and nothing got him down — nothing would faze him.”
Mastrantoni said her son’s first word was “ball.”
“He tried every single sport there was to try,” the mother said, adding in addition to lacrosse, football and soccer there was swimming and wrestling.
She said after he started treatment he took up golf, and it became his passion.
“You name the sport he tried it,” she said. “This kid was all about sports and competing, and as much as he’d love to win, he was a good sportsman as well. He was very kind and respectful. The best kind of kid and a very good son, very caring.”
After graduating from Ward Melville in 2017, LaRosa headed to Adelphi University on a scholarship. Ratner said during Christmas break that year, the college student felt stomach pain and went to Stony Brook University Hospital. It was determined he had some type of cancer, even though it couldn’t be ascertained what type at the time. After various tests between the Mayo Clinic and Memorial Sloan Kettering in Manhattan, he was diagnosed with the deadly cancer.
Ratner said LaRosa always stayed positive and talked about future plans, including one day getting married and having a family.
“He was ready to get back to his life,” Ratner said.
“He did not entertain sadness because he thought of it as negativity.”
— Gina Mastrantoni
His mother said he also considered going into health care and contemplated becoming a physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner.
“He did not entertain sadness because he thought of it as negativity,” she said.
The mother added that he had hoped to go to Adelphi for another semester and then go to James Madison to be part of its football team as a kicker.
This will be the first lacrosse tournament that the committee hopes to make an annual event to help students, according to Ratner. He said fundraisers were held in the past to support LaRosa and his family during his battle, and the support from the community as well as all over Long Island was tremendous.
Mastrantoni said the tournament is exciting, and she plans to attend. She has been touched by the support of family and friends as well as the community.
“It’s amazing how many people he touched in the last 22 years,” the mother said.
From being on the traveling lacrosse team, LaRosa’s life also touched many in rival school districts, including Smithtown, and former members of the town’s traveling team will be at the tournament to play.
“They’re coming out to show solidarity,” Ratner said.
He added members of the Three Village school district and board of ed have been helpful in making the event happen. Kevin Finnerty, school district executive director of health, physical education, recreation and athletics, said his heart broke for the former student-athlete’s family and friends when he heard of LaRosa’s passing a few months ago. The decision to have the event at the school, he said, was an easy one.
“JoJo was an amazing student-athlete with a heart of gold and a great perspective on life,” Finnerty said. “As his family would say, he was the bravest warrior. During JoJo’s battle with cancer, he inspired so many of his peers, family members and the community with his strength, resiliency and positive attitude.”
Finnerty said the organizers have been putting a lot of work and effort into the event.
“I know it will be a great success and a great way to rally our community to remember and honor JoJo,” he said.
After the games on Nov. 27, an awards ceremony will be held at The Bench in
Stony Brook.
