Authors Posts by Press Release

Press Release

5759 POSTS 0 COMMENTS

Pictured: Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (at the podium) speaking at a press conference at the William Rogers Legislative Building on April 21st.

At a press conference held on April 21st, in recognition of National Donate Life Month and in anticipation of Blue and Green Day, Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (Centerport) met with colleagues, organ donors, recipients and advocates to encourage more people to consider becoming organ donors.  Blue and Green Day is a component of National Donate Life Month, and its role is to promote organ donation through inspiring stories of those whose lives were touched by it.

“We are probably at least somewhat accustomed to hearing stories about someone who received an organ transplant, but rarely do we meet the donors, who have often passed on.  For this very reason, much more attention needs to be placed on living donors – those who donate while still alive and healthy,” said Bontempi.

The speakers at the press conference made it clear that New York is lagging behind a good number of other states when it comes to the number of registered donors.  While it is unclear exactly why New Yorkers are not adding their names to the donor list, it has become the mission of organ donor advocates to turn the tide.

“While becoming a living organ donor is not for everybody, it would be wonderful if more people would at least consider becoming a donor upon their death.  Many of us have the potential to save at least one life, possibly more,” added Bontempi.

To learn more about becoming an organ donor, please visit: www.liveonNY.com.

'Kayaks at Bay' by Holly Gordon

Contestants will be eligible to receive prizes, including a free Family Event aboard the historic Oyster Sloop Priscilla. Additional prizes provided by Long Island Aquarium, Long Island Ducks & Splish Splash

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone announced April 29 the launch of the 2022 Reclaim Our Water Poster Contest, for fifth grade students in the County, to encourage artistic expression and increase awareness of our most treasured natural resource — water. As a part of Reclaim Our Water (ROW), the County’s over-arching water quality improvement initiative, poster contest entrants are to create original artwork depicting their favorite water-related activities in Suffolk County with family and friends, such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, gardening and more, by May 20.

Oyster Sloop Priscilla

Contestants are encouraged to use their creativity, making posters that are humorous or serious, as long as they focus on the contest theme and direct viewers to the Reclaim Our Water website, www.ReclaimOurWater.info. Prizes will be awarded for first place, as well as for up to four other finalists. The first place winner will receive a free afternoon with family aboard the historic sailboat, Oyster Sloop Priscilla, of the Long Island Maritime Museum. Additional prizes will be provided by the Long Island Aquarium, the Long Island Ducks and Splish Splash. For more information, including rules, guidelines, and entry forms , please visit www.ReclaimOurWater.info.

“It is so important to involve our students in the work that we are doing now to create a cleaner, safer environment for them and future generations,”  said County Executive Bellone. “Coupling art with environmental awareness does that, in a unique way, to not only achieve our goal of increasing water quality awareness today, but also to pique their interest in protecting water quality for decades to come.”

To stop and reverse nitrogen pollution from cesspools and septic systems, improve water quality and protect natural storm barriers, County Executive Bellone launched the Reclaim Our Water initiative in 2017, which includes connection to sewers in some areas, and the installation of Innovative Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (IAOWTS) where sewers are not a practical or cost-effective solution. A featured aspect of the program includes the provision of up to $30,000 in state and county grants to eligible homeowners for the installation of Innovative and Alternatively nitrogen removal septic systems. As of March 2022, more than 1,030 Suffolk homeowners have utilized the program to install such systems.

File photo

Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives are investigating a shooting that killed a man in Ronkonkoma on Friday, April 29.

Fourth Precinct police officers responded to a 911 call of shots fired in front of 385 Wildwood Road at approximately 8:50 a.m. Upon arrival, it was determined Terry Long, 32, a resident of the home, had been shot outside the residence.

Long was transported by ambulance to Stony Brook University Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on the shooting to contact the Homicide Squad at 631-852-6392 or call anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.

The Town of Brookhaven has announced a series of upcoming spring and summer programs at its three recreation centers:

New Village Recreation Center
20 Wireless Road, Centereach, NY 11720
631-732-2338

Watercolor Art

Dates: Wednesdays, April, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 1, 8, 15

Times: 10:00AM – 12:00PM
Fee: $45.00 per 8-week session

 

Ping Pong Tournament
Doubles elimination tournament. Ages 18 years and older. Awards given to 1st
& 2nd place in each Division. Bring your own paddles. Balls will be provided.
T-shirt & refreshments included. No Walk-ins.

Dates: Singles – Saturday, May 14th
Doubles – Saturday, May 21st
Times: 9:00AM start time
(8:30AM check-in)
Fee: $15.00 per participant/per event
(T-shirt and refreshments included)
Pre-register: by Thursday, May 19
More information: Call 631-451-6112 to register.

Robert E. Reid, Sr. Recreation Center
Defense Hill Road & Route 25A, Shoreham, NY 11786
631-744-2601

DIY Paint Class
A variety of DIY Craft Classes hosted by The Crafty Bean Boutique. Participants will create a vertical “hello” sign in either a sunflowers or daisy pattern. Finished sign measures 15”L x 5”W. Must pre-register.
Date: Monday, May 23
Time: 6:00PM – 8:00PM
Fee: $40.00
Pre-Register: by Wednesday, May 18

Tai Chi
In this low-impact, slow-motion exercise class, you will learn how you can heal your physical, mental, and spiritual health. Tai chi can be easily adapted for anyone. It reduces stress, calms the mind, invigorates the spirit, & tones the body.
Dates: Mondays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18, 25, August 1
Time: 12:00PM – 12:45PM
Fee: $45.00/8-week session
Pre-Register: Thursday, June 2

Skoblicki Scientists
Join Miss Michelle in this interactive science program as we explore an exciting new topic each week in our summer series. Register for one or all. This class is open to school age students entering Grade K through Grade 5.
Time: 10:00AM – 10:45AM
Fee: $10.00 per child, per class
Beautiful Butterflies
Date: Wednesday, July 6
Pre-Register: by Friday, July 1
Growing a Garden
Date: Wednesday, July 13
Pre-Register: by Friday, July 8
Terrific Turtles
Date: Wednesday, July 20
Pre-Register: by Friday, July 15
Boats that Float
Date: Wednesday, July 27
Pre-Register: by Friday, July 22
Penguin Party
Date: Wednesday, August 3
Pre-Register: by Friday, July 29
Protect the Planet
Date: Wednesday, August 10
Pre-Register: by Friday, August 5

Belly Dancing
Looking for a fun way to get in shape? This class is a great introduction to belly dancing as a form of fitness, stress reduction and a way to obtain grace and femininity. Emphasis will be placed on basic belly dance techniques and steps in addition to its exercise benefit. Please wear comfortable clothing & non-slip socks or slippers. No sneakers. Ages 18+.
Dates: Thursdays, July 7, 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25
Time: 6:30PM – 7:30PM
Fee: $45.00/8-week session
Pre-Register: by Friday, July 1

Jump Bunch
Learn a new sport each week. Includes sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball and basketball. No equipment necessary. Just bring water.
3-5 years of age
Dates: Fridays, July 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12
Times: 4:00PM – 5:00Pm
Fee: $60.00 per 6-week session
Pre-Register: by, Tuesday, July 5
6-12 years of age
Dates: Fridays, July 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12
Times: 5:15PM – 5:00Pm
Fee: $60.00 per 6-week session
Pre-Register: by, Tuesday, July 5

 

Henrietta Acampora Recreation Center
39 Montauk Highway, Blue Point, NY 11715
631-363-5193

Total Body Fit
The class will promote overall strength and cardiovascular endurance while helping build muscle. Please bring your own workout/yoga mat, no other equipment necessary. This is an outdoor exercise class. Weather permitting.
Location: Blue Point Nature Preserve, 31 Maple St, Blue Point, NY 11715
Dates: Mondays, May 2, 9, 16, 23, June 6, 13
Time: 10:00AM – 11:00AM
Fee: $40.00/6-week session
Pre-Register: by Wednesday, April 27

 

Jump Bunch Jr. (Ages 3-5)
Learn a new sport each week. Includes sports such as soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball and basketball. No equipment necessary. Just bring water.

Dates: Fridays, May 6. 13. 20, 27, June 3, 10
Friday, June 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22
Time: 9:30AM – 10:30AM
Fee: $60.00/6-week session
Pre-Register: by Tuesday, July 5

Koga Lite
These classes are a unique workout combination of kickboxing and yoga and are designed as a gentle introduction to exercise/weight loss without the intimidation.
Dates: Fridays, May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, 10
Time: 11:30AM – 12:15PM
Fees: $50.00/8-week session

Belly Dancing 
Looking for a fun way to get in shape? This class is a great introduction to belly dancing as a form of fitness, stress reduction and a way to obtain grace and femininity. Emphasis will be placed on basic belly dance techniques and steps in addition to its exercise benefit. Please wear comfortable clothing & non-slip socks or slippers. No sneakers. Ages 18+
Dates: June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18, 25 August 1
Time: 6:30PM – 7:30PM
Fee: $45.00/8-week session
Pre-register: by Wednesday, June 1

Watercolor Art
Dates: Tuesdays, May 24, 31, June 7, 14, 21 & 28
Times: 10:00AM – 12:00PM
Fee: $35.00 per 6-week session
Pre-Register: by May 20, 2022

Smithtown Township Arts Council has announced that the works of East Northport artist M. Ellen Winter will be on view April 26 to June 27 at Apple Bank of Smithtown, 91 Route 111, Smithtown. The exhibition, part of STAC’s Outreach Gallery Program, can be viewed during regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Winter  has been painting and drawing for as long as she can remember and teaching for 30 plus years. She had a studio in Northport for two years, moving to a home studio in 2002. She taught Adult Education art classes for 28 years at Huntington High and now teaching Adult Education at Northport.
Instructing in oils, watercolor, acrylic, and pastel, she focuses on portraits, landscapes and still life. She has exhibited in many shows over the years, receiving awards for her art. Ms. Winter holds the Grumbacher Gold award and award of excellence in portraiture from Nassau County among many others. She is retiring from teaching in her home studio to allow her to focus on her own art. She plans to continue to teach Northport Adult Education.

“The Arts Council is grateful to Apple Bank for its continued support of culture in our communities. We are so happy to feature the talents of Long Island artists in this space!” read the press release.

For more information, call 631-862-6585.

METRO photo

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a program titled Electric Vehicles 101 on Wednesday, May 4 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.  Representatives from Drive Electric Long Island will speak about electric vehicles on the market today during this in-person event. EV owners will also give a show-and-tell of their vehicles and share their experiences. Free and open to all. Visit www.cplib.org or call  631-928-1212 to sign up.

 

 

File photo

The Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau, in partnership with the Town of Smithtown Parks Department and Public Safety Department, is hosting a Long Island Cares Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank Stuff-A-Truck event to make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate. The event will be held on Sunday, May 1st, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Smithtown Town Hall, located at 99 W Main Street in Smithtown. 

“Our Town Youth Bureau, along with a great group of community-minded young people, is inviting local participants to ‘Celebrate the Joy of Giving” with them. Time after time, our young people show us all how much can be accomplished with just a little compassion and thoughtfulness,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

All residents are invited to ‘Shop & Drop’ individually, as a family, or with their group. Students have the opportunity to earn community service credit for participating. To earn two hours of community service credit, students should gather and donate at least ten different items from the suggested items list. To earn three hours of community service, students should gather and donate at least thirteen different items from the most needed items list and submit an 8 ½” x 11” card or poster which expresses the theme of “The Joy of Giving,” along with their donation. Students can choose either of these options to earn a Town Certificate of Community Service. A maximum of three hours can be earned.

It is requested that you donate products that are in boxes, cans, or plastic bottles, and do not require refrigeration. To promote healthy eating, we ask for items that are low in sugar/sodium and free of high fructose corn syrup. No glass jars will be accepted. The most needed items right now include: low-fat & non-refrigerated milk; rice; canned vegetables (low or no salt); olive oil (no glass jar); cereal/oatmeal; canned fruits (low or no sugar); tomato sauce (no glass jar); canned meat/poultry/ham/fish; peanut butter; jelly/jam/spreadable fruit; tissues; toilet paper; and canned meals (ravioli, etc.).

Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau staff, as well as Town Youth Advisory Board and student Volunteer Corps members, will be on hand to run this drive-through food donation event and make this an effortless and fun experience for participants. 

For further information, contact the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau at [email protected]. Visit the Youth Bureau website for more information about their other supportive programs and services for students and families at www.smithtownny.gov/youthbureau.

The Jazz Loft

The following events are scheduled at the Jazz Loft for May 2022 :

 

Wed. 5/4         Young at Heart: Strictly Sinatra                                         1:00 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio will perform songs made famous by Frank Sinatra .  The Young at Heart series is a monthly afternoon themed jazz concert series. Tickets:$10

 

Wed. 5/4           Jazz Loft Trio & Jam                                                          7:00 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at  performs 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM. Tickets:$10 at &PM, $5 at 8 PM

 

Thu. 5/5              Strictly Sinatra                                                                    7:00 PM

Fri. 5/6

Sat. 5/7     The 17 member Jazz Loft Orchestra and vocalist Pete Caldera will perform 3 evenings of all Sinatra music. Pete Caldera is a sportswriter covering the Yankees and well known Sinatra crooner.

Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free

 

Mon. 5/9             SBU Blowage Big Band                                                      7:00 PM

The Stony Brook University Blowage Big Band is a 17 member big band led by trombonist  Ray Anderson and trumpeter Tom Manuel.

Tickets: $10 adults, $5 seniors and students, SBU faculty and staff free

 

Tues. 5/10           Vince Guara  DMA Recital                                                  7:00 PM

Bassist Vince Guara performs his DMA recital for his graduate degree from the music department of Stony Brook University.

Tickets: $10 adults, $5 seniors and students, SBU faculty and staff free

 

Wed. 5/11          Jazz Loft Trio & Jam                                                             7:00 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.

Tickets: $10 at 7 PM, $5 at 8 PM

 

Mon. 5/16          SBU Grad Combos Concert                                               7:00 PM

Jazz combos of graduate students at Stony Brook University will perform.

Tickets: $10 adults, $5 seniors and students, SBU faculty and staff free

 

Tues. 5/17         SBU Graduate Recitals                                                       7:00 PM

Jeremy Carlstedt, drummer and Martin Isenberg, bassist, perform recitals. They are students in the music department of Stony Brook University.

Tickets: $10 adults, $5 seniors and students, SBU faculty and staff free

 

Wed. 5/18         Jazz Loft Trio & Jam                                                           7:00 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.

Tickets: $10 at 7 PM, $5 at 8 PM

 

Thur. 5/19           The Bad Little Big Band                                                     7:00 PM

Pianist Rich Iacona leads his 12 member big band in performing music of The Great American Song Book. Vocalist Madeline Kole accompanies the band.

Tickets: $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, children under 5 free

 

Fri. 5/20              The Jon Irabagon Group                                                    7:00 PM

This event has been canceled

Jon Irabagon is a tenor saxophonist, composer and record label founder. He is the winner of the 2008 Thelonius Monk competition and has performed and recorded with many music luminaries.

Tickets: $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, children under 5 free

 

Sat. 5/21             The Bill Mays Trio                                                                7:00 PM

Bill Mays is a jazz pianist, composer, and recording artist.

Tickets: $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, children under 5 free

 

Wed. 5/25             Jazz Loft Trio and Jam                                                       7:00 PM

The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM

Tickets: $10 at 7 PM, $5 at 8 PM

 

Thurs. 5/26            Interplay Jazz Orchestra                                                    7:00 PM

The 17-member big band co directed by Joe Devassy trombone and Gary Henderson trumpet performs original compositions and arrangements written by band members.

Tickets: $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, children under 5 free

 

The Jazz Loft is located at 275 Christian Ave in Stony Brook Village phone 631 751-1895. Tickets are available at www.thejazzloft.org and if available, before events.

Stony Brook Village’s Spring Appreciation Day on April 23 was a huge success, drawing thousands to the Stony Brook Village Center for live music by Burke and Brent, a car show, vintage vehicles by the Antique Automobile Club of America, a petting zoo courtesy of Racing Horse Farms, and scavenger hunt by the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO)’s Youth Corps and tours of the Stony Brook Grist Mill.

On April 10, Supervisor Ed Romaine (R) met with Cub Scouts from Pack 354 and their leader, Rob DeStefano, to present them with a certificate of congratulations for cleaning up the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway. The supervisor also presented Town of Brookhaven pins to commemorate their efforts.

Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn (D-Setauket) helped kick off the service project by joining the Scouts along the cleanup — filling a full five-gallon bucket with trash along the way.

The Setauket Port Jefferson Station Greenway is a three-mile-long trail that wanders its way from the east trailhead on Route 112 in Port Jefferson Station to Limroy Lane in Setauket. Parking is available at both locations. Construction was completed in two phases with the first trail section opening in 2009 and the subsequent phase opening in 2014.

A true linear park, the Setauket to Port Jefferson Station Greenway is the longest paved multi-use trail in Suffolk County. The Greenway utilizes land acquired by the NYS Department of Transportation in the 1960s for a planned bypass of Route 25A. This bypass has been re-purposed, and today you can walk or bike through an amazing variety of terrains and landscapes: an old growth forest, rolling hills, rhododendron woodlands, neighborhoods, county parkland, old farmland, etc. With the recent opening of Phase II of the trail, you are now able to pedal from the Setauket Post Office to upper Port Jefferson Station. The path runs approximately four miles and is handicapped accessible.

The Friends of the Greenway, a committee of the Three Village Community Trust, maintains the Greenway. Visit www.threevillagecommunitytrust.org for more information.