Arts & Entertainment

'Right and Left,' 1850, by William Sidney Mount Image courtesy of the LIM

By Tara Mae

Art is more than a communion between artist and audience. It is a point of entry into understanding the past, assessing the present, and perhaps even informing the future. A Noble Art: A New Look at the Portraits of William Sidney Mount on display at Long Island Museum’s Art Museum (LIM) through December 15, examines this dynamic through a 27-piece exhibit.

Considered to be the premier American genre painter, William Sidney Mount (1807-1868), who was born in Setauket and spent much of his time in Stony Brook, was a prolific portraitist who expressed the emotional essence of a person and period. 

Mount’s first solo show at the LIM since 2018, A Noble Art encompasses paintings, lithographs, drawings, correspondence, and other artifacts from the 19th century Long Island artist.

“Not many museums in the country have this depth of materials for a single artist, including personal effects…The exhibit showcases rich archival materials and works,” said Joshua Ruff, Co-Executive Director at the LIM and the curator of this exhibit.

LIM houses the largest repository of Mount materials.  A Noble Art spotlights prize items of its collection, such as Right and Left, which has been displayed in previous shows, as well as four pieces that have not previously been on public view at the museum. Among that selection are portraits of Long Island’s reputed first millionaire Captain Jonas Smith and his wife Nancy Williamson Smith, acquired by the LIM at auction in 2022. 

In addition to new acquisitions, the exhibit also reflects new information gathered in the ongoing scholarship about the 19th century Long Island native’s work, particularly his portraiture and its subjects. 

“Our Mount artwork and artifacts are the jewels of our collection — something we are really fortunate to have. It has been a long time since we had an exhibit focused on Mount’s portraiture,” Ruff said. “There have been some changes in research and improvement of knowledge about the portraits’ subjects, so it feels like time to introduce them to visitors.” 

A primary motivating factor for assembling this exhibit is the new details that have been excavated about the individuals immortalized in Mount’s paintings. In recent years, especially with the publication The Art of William Sidney Mount: Long Island People of Color on Canvas by Katherine Kirkpatrick and Vivian Nicholson-Mueller, particular attention is being paid to the Black and Indigenous people who Mount represented rather than caricatured.

“These are sensitive, not stereotypical portrayals…when you really look, there is a lot going on, like subtle symbolic references to the backgrounds of his subjects and nuanced details,” Ruff said. 

From an artistic family, Mount’s most well-known portraits are frequently of people he knew, and their warmth adds elements of intimacy and liveliness. His portraits convey both dynamically diverse and culturally unifying insights into the persons, settings, and circumstances of Long Island during the 1800s. 

A Noble Art even offers context for Mount’s own kin. His family portraits from the 1840s provide a glimpse at a creative clan and further emphasize his progression as an artist. Mount’s sister Ruth and niece Evalina were talented artists in their own right. Mount’s brother Shepard was also a portraitist, and the show features one of his pieces. 

Yet, the heart of the exhibit remains Mount’s ability to forge a connection between creator, subject, and observer. Personable renderings illuminate the evolution of Mount’s artistic intricacies, spanning decades of his work from a self-portrait made when he was 21 years old to two of the three members of his musician series: The Banjo Player and Right and Left. (The third painting of this trio, The Bone Player is on display at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.) 

His work invites the viewer to appreciate an eternal moment and recognize enduring  humanity. “With portraiture you might anticipate an element of sameness, but if you really look at Mount’s portraits there is a lot happening within them. We are excited to share this opportunity for discovery with the public,” Ruff said. 

The Long Island Museum is located at 1200 Route 25A in Stony Brook. Hours are Thursday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $15 adults, $10 seniors and students, children under age 6 are free. For more information, call 631-751-0066 or visit longislandmuseum.org.

METRO photo

By Robert Cannon, Esq.

Robert Cannon, Esq.

Consider this scenario: a 75-year-old woman, Jane, began to exhibit signs of cognitive decline last year. She is widowed and has one child. Moreover, her financial advisor contacted a relative to advise that Jane was making unusual withdrawals and that there is a concern that she may be the subject of financial exploitation. The relative no longer believes she can take care of her financial affairs and is concerned that she is not looking after her personal needs. 

As a first step, the family tried to talk to her last year about meeting with an estate planning attorney, but she refused to do so. There are no known advance directives in place and her condition has deteriorated significantly. In addition, Jane has a 40-year-old son with Down syndrome who is entirely reliant upon her. What can be done?

First step is to determine if Jane has the capacity to sign advance directives including a health care proxy and power of attorney. If this is not possible because she has deteriorated to the extent of being unable to handle her affairs or appoint someone to do so, the family may need to explore the commencement of a Mental Hygiene Law Article 81 proceeding seeking the appointment of a guardian of the person and property of Jane.

The commencement of the proceeding involves filing a verified petition with the Supreme Court of the county in which she resides outlining the reasons why it is believed that she does not understand or appreciate the extent of her limitations and that she is likely to suffer harm if a guardian is not appointed for her. The appointment of a guardian in MHL Article 81 proceedings is based on functional limitations and not on medical diagnoses.

In light of the financial advisors concerns regarding potential financial exploitation, at the outset of the proceeding, it may be prudent to request that the Court appoint a Temporary Guardian to immediately take steps to secure Jane’s finances and prevent any further abuse.

The Court will set a hearing date and all interested persons will have to be notified, including Jane’s son and her living siblings. The Court will appoint a Court Evaluator to conduct an investigation, which will include meeting Jane in person, speaking with other friends and family members, and investigating her finances. In limited circumstances it may be appropriate for the Court Evaluator to request the permission of the Court to review medical records. The Court may appoint an attorney to represent Jane. The Petitioner would be required to testify at the hearing along with any other witnesses that will help demonstrate to the Court Jane’s need for a guardian. The Court Evaluator will also testify as to their findings and recommendations.

If appointed, the permanent guardian will step into your Jane’s shoes. The petitioner can request to serve as guardian or it can be a third party. The Court can tailor the powers granted to the guardian to meet Jane’s individual needs and can appoint a guardian of the person, a guardian of the property, or both. There are various safeguards in place to ensure that once a guardian is appointed, Jane will be protected, including the requirement that the guardian obtain a bond and file annual reports with the Court.

Once Jane is squared away, the family members will need to turn their attention to Jane’s son. The first inquiry should be if Jane or anyone else was ever appointed as her son’s guardian. If not, we must consider the possibility of commencing a SCPA 17-A guardianship proceeding in the Surrogate’s Court of the County in which he resides. Unlike MHL Article 81, the appointment of a guardian in a SCPA 17-A proceeding is driven by medical diagnoses. 

As part of the application, a licensed physician and licensed psychologist with a PhD are required to submit Affirmations certifying that Jane’s son is intellectually or developmentally disabled. A guardian appointed in this manner is granted broad decision- making authority over financial and medical matters.

As you can see, seeking guardianship for an adult in New York can be quite nuanced. Whether it be through the Mental Hygiene Law Article 81 or SCPA Article 17-A, it is possible to provide for the needs of these vulnerable adults.

Robert Cannon, Esq. is a senior associate attorney at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C focusing his practice areas on Elder Law and Guardianships. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from Manhattan to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.

Paula and Mel Blum

Mel and Paula Blum celebrated their 55th anniversary with a wedding vow renewal ceremony at Fountaingate Gardens in Commack on July 11. Both are New York City natives. While Mel spent his early years in Colorado until the age of 12, he frequently visited family in Brooklyn. Paula, on the other hand, grew up in Brooklyn, solidifying her roots in the bustling borough.

Paula and Mel Blum

Their paths converged in Manhattan, in a serendipitous street encounter involving a mutual acquaintance. This acquaintance, having dated Paula a few times and knowing Mel, failed to introduce the two. Paula took the initiative, prompting Mel to introduce himself, and from that moment, a connection was forged.

Their life together includes raising a daughter and building impressive careers. Mel was a chemical executive, while Paula’s professional journey spanned from teaching and college admissions counseling to serving as a field coordinator with the Nassau County Department of Senior Citizen Affairs. Later, Paula joined Mel’s companies, where she adeptly handled advertising, marketing, and personnel management.

Now, as founding members of the Fountaingate Gardens Independent Life Plan Community in Commack, where they moved in September 2022, they chose this perfect location to renew their vows. The ceremony was officiated by long-time friend Barbara Epstein and featured beautiful decorations and delicious treats. Following this special ceremony with their Fountaingate Gardens family, Mel and Paula will celebrate at a small gathering of family and friends in August.

Reflecting on their journey together, Mel and Paula offer this advice for a long and happy marriage: “Do not sweat the small stuff; it isn’t worth it. And make sure the bedroom is always the DMZ (demilitarized zone).”

Their story is a testament to love, resilience and the importance of making connections, no matter how unexpected the circumstances.

There are 8 grams of fiber in one cup of raspberries. Source: Mayo Clinic, Pixabay photo

Most Americans consume only half   the recommended daily fiber.

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Based on an abundance of research, we should all be concerned with getting enough fiber in our diets (1). Most Americans are woefully deficient in fiber, consuming between 10 and 15 grams per day, which is about half of what we should be consuming. Probably not surprising, our consumption of legumes and dark green vegetables is the lowest in comparison to other fiber subgroups (2). This has significant implications for our health.

USDA fiber intake recommendations vary based on gender and age. For adult women, they recommend between 22 and 28 grams per day, and for adult men, the targets are between 28 and 35 grams (2). Some argue that even these recommendations are on the low end of the scale for optimal health.

Though fiber comes in supplement form, most of your daily intake should be from diet. It is actually relatively painless to increase your fiber consumption; you just have to be aware of which foods are fiber-rich.

What difference does fiber type make?

There are a number of different fiber classifications, including soluble, viscous, and fermentable. Within each of the types, there are subtypes. Not all fiber sources are equal.

At a high level, we break dietary fiber into two overarching categories: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibers slow digestion and nutrient absorption and make us feel fuller for longer. Sources include oats, peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, flax seed, barley and psyllium.

On the other hand, insoluble fibers accelerate intestinal transit, which promotes digestive health. Sources include wheat bran, nuts, berries, legumes and beans, dark leafy greens, broccoli, cabbage and other vegetables. 

Many plant-based foods contain both soluble and insoluble fiber.

How does fiber affect disease progression and longevity?

Fiber has powerful effects on our health. A very large prospective cohort study showed that fiber may increase longevity by decreasing mortality from cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases and other infectious diseases (3). Over a nine-year period, those who ate the most fiber were 22 percent less likely to die than those consuming the lowest amount.

Patients who consumed the most fiber also saw a significant decrease in mortality from cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases and infectious diseases. The authors of the study believe that it may be the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of whole grains that are responsible for the positive results.

A study published in 2019 that performed systematic reviews and meta-analyses on data from 185 prospective studies and 58 clinical trials found that higher intakes of dietary fiber and whole grains provided the greatest benefits in protecting participants from cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal and breast cancers, along with a 15-30 percent decrease in all-cause mortality for those with the highest fiber intakes, compared to those with the lowest (4).

We also see a benefit with fiber and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in a relatively large epidemiologic analysis of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study (5). The specific source of fiber was important. Fruit had the most significant effect on preventing COPD, with a 28 percent reduction in risk. Cereal fiber also had an effect, but it was not as great.

Fiber also has powerful effects on breast cancer treatment. In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, soluble fiber had a significant impact on breast cancer risk reduction in estrogen receptor negative women (6). This is one of the few studies that has illustrated significant results for this population. Most beneficial studies for breast cancer have shown results in estrogen receptor positive women.

The list of chronic diseases and disorders that fiber prevents and/or treats is continually expanding.

How do I increase my fiber intake?

Emphasize plants on your plate. Animal products don’t contain natural fiber. It’s easy to increase your fiber by choosing bean- or lentil-based pastas, which are becoming easier to find in general grocery stores. Sometimes, they are tucked in the gluten-free section, rather than with wheat pastas. Personally, I prefer those based on lentils, but that’s a personal preference. Read the labels, though; you want those that are made from only beans or lentils and not those that include rice.

If you are trying to prevent chronic diseases in general, aim to consume fiber from a wide array of sources. Ensuring you consume substantial amounts of fiber has several health protective advantages: it helps you avoid processed foods, it reduces your risk of chronic disease, and it increases your satiety and energy levels.

References:

(1) Nutrients. 2020 Oct; 12(10): 3209. (2) USDA.gov. (3) Arch Intern Med. 2011;171(12):1061-1068. (4) Lancet. 2019 Feb 2;393(10170):434-445. (5) Amer J Epidemiology 2008;167(5):570-578. (6) Amer J Clinical Nutrition 2009;90(3):664–671.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

Herbed Olive Chicken Pasta

By Heidi Sutton

I don’t know about other gardeners out there, but my raised beds are already overflowing with red cherry tomatoes and orange and yellow grape tomatoes (Thank you bees!!) and big, bushy basil plants. When harvesting this summer bounty I always think of how to incorporate these two ingredients into a delicious pasta dish. Garden fresh tomatoes and herbs tossed with mozzarella and garlic over pasta delivers a burst of flavor everyone will love. Here are some recipes to try including my all-time favorite, Rotelle alla Caprese.

Herbed Olive Chicken Pasta

Herbed Olive Chicken Pasta

YIELD: Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

8 ounces rotini or rotelle pasta

1 cup cooked chicken breast meat, cut into bite-size pieces

1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered

24 pitted olives, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

4 medium garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup chopped, fresh basil leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (1/2 cup)

DIRECTIONS:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook as the label directs for al dente. Remove pot from heat. Place chicken in a colander; pour pasta over chicken and shake off excess liquid. Return pasta and chicken to pot. Stir in remaining ingredients, except feta. Divide into bowls and top with feta before serving.

Cellentani Caprese Pasta Salad

Cellentani Caprese Salad

YIELD: Serves 7

INGREDIENTS: 

1 16 oz. box cellentani (double elbow) pasta

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

2 pints grape tomatoes, mixed color, halved

4 tablespoons lemon juice

8 basil leaves, julienned

2 cups small mozzarella cheese balls, halved

salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Bring large pot of water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Drizzle pasta with 1 tablespoon olive oil and place on sheet tray to cool. Set aside. In large bowl, combine tomatoes, lemon juice, basil, remaining olive oil, cheese, salt and pepper. Add pasta and stir. 

Rotelle alla Caprese

Rotelle alla Caprese

YIELD: Serves 4 to 6

INGREDIENTS: 

2 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes

8 ounces mozzarella cheese (not fresh)

1 cup sliced fresh basil

6 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons minced garlic

Salt and pepper to taste

12 ounces rotelle pasta

DIRECTIONS:

Cut tomatoes in half and cheese into 1/2 inch cubes and place in large bowl. Mix in chopped basil, oil, vinegar and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bring large pot of water to boil. Cook pasta, drain and return to the same pot. 

Immediately add tomato mixture and toss until cheese begins to melt. Transfer pasta to bowls and serve with garlic bread or breadsticks.

Keynote speaker was Holocaust survivor Rosalie Simon with music by Toby Tobias

Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth, in conjunction with the Suffolk YJCC, hosted the Town of Huntington’s 13th Annual Anne Frank Memorial Ceremony on July 19. The event took place at Arboretum Park in Melville, home of the Anne Frank Memorial Garden.

The ceremony was held mid-way between Anne Frank’s June 12th birthday and the August 4th date of her capture. Frank would have been 94 this year. Frank died in 1945 at the age of 15 in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany.

This year’s event featured Holocaust survivor Rosalie Simon, and students, Alexa Nissenbaum and Chloe Swartz, who participated in Suffolk Y JCC’s Names, Not Numbers program, a unique program where students learn to combine research, journalism, and video production to capture and share the stories of Holocaust survivors so that they are never forgotten. 

The ceremony also featured special musical guest, South African-born guitarist, and composer Toby Tobias. Tobias shared his stories of hope through music, during a time of war and upheaval across three continents, from Johannesburg to Jerusalem — then here in the United States.

Commander Harry Arlin and members of Jewish War Veterans Post #488 provided a color guard to present the colors for the ceremony while Rabbi Jeff Clopper of Temple Beth El in Huntington led the prayers.

“Every year, we strive to make this event memorable and thought provoking. This year is no different. What happened to Anne Frank, her family, and all victims and survivors of the Holocaust could have happened to anyone, at any point in time,” said Superviser Smyth. 

“Abroad today, in places like Ukraine. At home, with targeted attacks against different groups and the population at large. We must counter the voices that seek to divide us. We can teach love, acceptance, and unity. We can and should resolve ignorance with education,” Smyth added.

The Anne Frank Memorial Garden, was unveiled by the Town in June 2010 at Arboretum Park. The park symbolically captures the journey of Anne Frank’s life. It features a circular pathway that surrounds a garden, which leads to the sculpture of a young girl’s dress. 

The Memorial Garden serves as tribute to Anne’s legacy of wisdom and genuine belief in the goodness of mankind and human nature, despite the ugliness of war and discrimination.

Celebrate Star Wars Day at Emma Clark Library on July 27. Photo courtesy of Emma Clark Library
PROGRAMS

Drop-In Art Workshops

Children ages five through ten are invited to the Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington to create fun works of art in a variety of materials inspired by artwork in the Museum’s exhibitions on July 25, Aug. 1 and Aug. 8 from 10 to 11 a.m. Each week’s project will be exciting and different! Programs will be held both in the Museum and in Heckscher Park, weather-permitting. $10 per child includes all art supplies and admission to the museum. No advance registration required. www.heckscher.org

Shark Adventures

For Shark Week, join The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor in celebrating these incredible apex predators with Shark Adventures on July 25 at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. Touch a real shark jaw and a Megalodon tooth. Learn to identify different shark teeth and excavate a real shark tooth fossil. Design and create a necklace or keychain featuring your fossil treasure. ​​Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 members. No registration required. 631-367-3418

Magic Show on the Harbor

The Village of Port Jefferson presents a magic show with Magic of Amore at the Jill Nees-Russell Performance Stage at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson on July 25 at 6:30 p.m. Free. Bring seating. 631-473-4724

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on July 26 at 9:30 a.m. with hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Luminous Lighthouses

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for a drop-in program, Luminous Lighthouses, on July 26 between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Explore the radiant world of lighthouses in this creative design workshop. Design and decorate a unique lighthouse of your own — complete with a battery-powered tea light! Admission + $10 participant. No registration required. 631-367-3418

Shark Discovery

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents Shark Discovery on July 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Learn about the sharks native to New York, and how sharks are different from other fish. Even create your very own shark species! Wear shark-y attire to celebrate! For ages 10 and up. $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

Pop-Up Saturday

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) continues its Pop-Up Saturdays series at the Stony Brook Village Center’s Inner Court by Crazy Beans, 97 Main St., Stony Brook on July 27 with the Pixie Dust Storytellers,  entertainment from fairytale characters, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. 631-751-2244

Star Wars Day

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket invites families with children up to Grade 6 to Star Wars Day on July 27 from 2 to 4 p.m. Enjoy carnival games with a Star Wars twist and enter a raffle contest. Children are welcome to wear a Star Wars or space-themed costume, but not necessary. No registration required. Questions? Email [email protected]

Happy Birthday Harry Potter

Drop by Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St. Setauket on July 30 from 2 to 4 p.m, to celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with themed activities. For families with children up to Grade 6. Open to all. No registration required. Questions? Email [email protected]

Touch-A-Truck event

Families with children up to Grade 6 are invited to drop by Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket to check out vehicles from different community organizations during the library’s Touch-A-Truck event on July 31 from 10 a.m. to noon. No registration required. 631-941-4080

Fantastical Sea Beasts

Fire-breathing beasts! Galloping unicorns! Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for Fantastical Sea Beasts and Where to Find Them on Aug. 1 at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. Did you know that many mythic creatures featured in the Harry Potter world started their stories in the sea? Discover the myths and legends surrounding these fantastical creatures and create your own dragon egg with gilded seashells. Admission fee + $10 participant. No registration required. 631-36-3418.

THEATER

‘Raggedy Ann & Andy’

“Be a buddy, be a pal, be a friend …”  Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Raggedy Ann & Andy from July 5 to July 27. The world’s favorite and most famous rag dolls come to life in a heart-warming adventure about friendship and loyalty as the toys save the Tiwilliger Toy Workshop for Extra-Special Friends. A captivating tale of the power of love and cooperation. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Finding Nemo Jr.’

Summer fun continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with Finding Nemo Jr. from July 20 to Aug. 25. In this musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie, Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as Dory, Crush, and the Tank Gang, Marlin, and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

FILM

‘The Parent Trap’

Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mount Sinai continues its Movies in the Moonlight series with a screening of The Parent Trap on July 26 at dusk. Presented by the North Shore Youth Council and Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon. Bring seating. 631-403-4846

‘Wonka’

The 7th annual Farmingville Flicks outdoor movie series kicks off at Local Church, 1070 Portion Road, Farmingville with Wonka on July 29 at dusk, courtesy of the Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce and Sachem Public Library. Bring seating. 631-317-1738

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! Catch a performance of ‘Newsies’ at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center this weekend. Photo by Michelle Demetillo/SPAC
Ongoing

Huntington Summer Arts Festival

The 59th annual Huntington Summer Arts Festival returns to Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington from June 21 to Aug. 24, Wednesdays to Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 7 p.m. The 10-week festival will feature over 40 live performances including dance, theater and music. Bring seating. Held rain or shine. Free. For a list of scheduled performers, visit www.huntingtonarts.org. 631-271-8423

Thursday July 25

Terryville Carnival

Terryville Fire Department, 19 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station invites the community to its annual family carnival tonight to July 27 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., and July 28 from 5 to 10 p.m. Enjoy rides, games and carnival food. $25 entry fee includes all rides. Fireworks on July 26. 631-473-1224

Harborside Concerts

Harborside concerts continue at the Show Mobile at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson tonight at 7 p.m. with the Elo Tribute Band. Bring seating. 631-473-4724, www.portjeff.com

LIM Summer Thursday

Join the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook for a special after hours  screening Melissa Levine’s Babygirl followed by a performance by Rosie Kelly at 5:30 p.m. Then head over to the Art Museum to view Fire Island: The Art of Liberation. Free admission. 631-751-0066

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook will host a Native American Drumming Meditation workshop from 7 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.

Dennis Cannataro Concert Series

The Dennis Cannataro Family Summer Concert Series continues at the Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown with Boardwalk Nights (Jersey Shore tribute) tonight at 7:30 p.m. No registration required. 631-360-2480 ext. 150

Community Band Concert

The Northport Community Band will host concerts at the Robert W. Krueger Bandshell in Northport Village Park tonight and Aug. 1 starting at 8:30 p.m. Free. Bring seating. Rain location is Northport High School. www.ncb59.org

Friday July 26

Terryville Carnival

See July 25 listing.

Island Idol

Join the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach for its 20th annual outdoor music competition, Island Idol, in the parking lot at 6 p.m. Talented Middle Country teens will perform for the audience and a panel of judges, and the library’s Teen Advisory Council will sell refreshments and offer crafts for all ages. Bring seating. 631-585-9393

Happenings on Main Street

Northport Arts Coalition presents Happenings on Main Street, free concerts at the Northport Village Park Gazebo at the harbor Friday evenings at 7 p.m. through Aug. 30. Tonight’s performance will feature Jasmine Goare. Bring seating. 631-261-1872

Eagles Tribute Concert

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its summer concert series with Eagles Tribute Band The Fast Lane at 8 p.m. From the incredible guitar lines of “Hotel California” to the beautiful vocal harmonies of “Lying Eyes” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” one listen to The Fast Lane will make everyone who sees them a huge fan! Tickets are $65. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.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 July 27

Terryville Carnival

See July 25 listing.

Deuces Wild Car & Truck Show

The Maples, 10 Ryerson Ave., Manorville hosts the Deuces Wild Car & Truck Show & Sock Hop today and July 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with live music, vendors, bbq, contests, raffles and more. Proceeds benefit the NFCK Animal Rescue. $5 admission for spectators. www.northforkcountrykids.org

Outdoor Thrift Garage Sale

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will hold an outdoor thrift garage sale in its parking lot from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m Shop for household items and fun treasures! Money goes back into the wildlife center. 631-901-5911

Pollinator Garden Talk

Grab your favorite beach chair and come on down to scenic grounds of The Reboli Center, 64 Main St., Stony Brook a Magic Pollinator Garden Talk Cornell Master Gardener, Valerie Doyle from 10 a.m. to noon. Doyle, creator of The Reboli Center’s first ever pollinator sensory garden, will discuss how to build a pollinator garden. Activities will include a group reading, a garden watercolor painting demonstration, book signing and a garden stained glass exhibit. Free. Rain date is July 28. 631-751-7707

Architecture & Collections Tour

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents an Architecture & Collections Tour from noon to 1 p.m Take an intriguing walking tour of the Vanderbilt Estate with knowledgeable Museum educators. Learn about the history of the Eagle’s Nest estate; Warren & Wetmore’s design and exterior architectural details of the 24-room Spanish Revival mansion; the striking ironwork of Samuel Yellin; and visit the marine, natural history, and cultural artifact collections. Tickets, which include general admission, are available for purchase ONLY at the door: Adults $16; seniors/students $15; children under 12, $14. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Chicken BBQ Fundraiser

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, UCC, 233 North Country Road, Mt. Sinai will host a Chicken BBQ from 3 to 6 p.m.  Catered by Tuscany Market, the meal includes 1/2 chicken, corn salad, potato salad, and corn bread for $19.99. Popular, traditional, and some original music will provided by Eddie & Bob, Bluegrass Buddies, and Hunter Caiazzo along with vendors and raffles. Bring seating. For more information, call 631-331-2535. 

Hallockville Barn Dance 

Break out your dancing boots and head over to Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead for a Barn Dance from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dance the night away as famed caller Chart Guthrie will lead the group through traditional country dancing in the historic Naugles Barn. $30 adults and teens, $10 ages 5 to 12, under age 5 free. To purchase tickets, visit www.hallockville.org. 631-298-5292

Concert on the Lawn

The North Shore Community Band continues its annual Summer Concert Series with an outdoor concert at St. Mark’s Church, 105 Randall Road, Shoreham at 7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of patriotic favorites. Bring seating. www.northshorecommunityband.org

Tribute to ABBA

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson welcomes ABBA tribute band Dancing Dream to the Main Stage at 8 p.m. The show will electrify audiences of all ages with top hits including “Mamma Mia,” “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance,” “Fernando,” and many more. Tickets are $65. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Avalon Astronomy Night

The Observatories at Avalon Nature Preserve in Stony Brook will be hosting a live observing session (weather permitting) from 9 to 11 p.m. Using telescopes, they will be providing both digital and visual views of a variety of popular summertime targets. Meet at Avalon Barn off Shep Jones Lane. Free. No registration required. 631-689-0619

Sunday July 28

Terryville Carnival

See July 25 listing.

Deuces Wild Car & Truck Show

See July 27 listing.

Beatles on the Balcony Concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will hold a free concert titled “Beatles on the Balcony” featuring The Liverpool Shuffle at 2 p.m. This is the first free concert from the LIMEHOF balcony and will be viewable from the parking lot. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. For more information, call  631-689-5888 or visit  www.limusichalloffame.org.

Fire Island Pines lecture

The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents a lecture titled The History of Fire Island Pines at 2 p.m. Join Fire Island Pines Historical Preservation Society President Bobby Bonanno for a unique and informative talk about the history of the Fire Island Pines and its place as a symbol of freedom of expression. Free with admission to the museum. 631-751-0066

Wind Down Sundays

The popular summer concert series returns to Hap’s historic Red Barn at Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket with a performance by The Whiskey Crows at 5:30 p.m. Bring seating. 631-689-6146, www.frankmelvillepark.org

Celebrate St. James Concert Series

Celebrate St. James continues its summer concert series at Celebrate Park, 369 Lake Ave., St. James with The Band Easy Street from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The series continues every Sunday through Aug. 18. Free. Bring seating. 631-984-0201, www.celebratestjames.org

Village Green Summer Concert

Summer concerts return to the Stony Brook Village Center every Sunday at 7 p.m. in front of the Stony Brook Post Office, 111 Main Street, Stony Brook through Aug. 18. Tonight’s performance will feature The Equity Brass Band. Bring seating. In the case of rain, the concerts will be cancelled. 631-751-2244, www.wmho.org

Monday July 29

Outdoor Hula Hooping

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts an evening of outdoor hula hooping from 6 to 7 p.m. Get a great workout while you hoop it up with instructor Jeannie Pendergrass on the library lawn. Open to all. To reserve your spot, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Tuesday July 30

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a performance by the amazing Mulvihill Lynch Irish Dancers  with a demonstration of classic Irish dancing in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Owls in Our Yard

Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket continues its free community summer programs with Owls in Our Yard with Patricia Paladines at Hap’s Red Barn at 11 a.m. Learn about the story of Alfie the Screech Owl. 631-689-6146

Summer Concert in the Courtyard

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport continues its Summer Concerts in the Library Courtyard series with The Rustlers at 7 p.m. This talented country band takes the stage to deliver an unforgettable evening of the best classic and contemporary country music. Rain date is July 31. No registration required. 631-261-6930

Concerts at The Gazebo 

Enjoy Tuesday night concerts at The Gazebo, 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset at 7 p.m. through Aug. 27. Tonight’s performance will feature Bon Journey. Rain date is July 31. 631-672-5197, www.nesconsetchamber.org

Create Your Resumé

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station will present a Resumé Workshop from 7 to 8 p.m. Learn how to use Microsoft Word to create, style, and format a resumé, as well as how to email or upload your document in this hands-on class. Open to all. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

Rocky Point Concert series

The North Shore Youth Council and Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon presents a  summer concert featuring the Swingtime Big Band at St. Anthony of Padua Parish, 614 Route 25A, Rocky Point at 7 p.m. Bring seating. 631-854-1600

Smithtown Community Band

The Smithtown Historical Society hosts the 38th annual Smithtown Community Band concert series, Starry Nights, on the grounds of the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown at 7:30 p.m. Free. Bring seating. 631-265-6768

Wednesday July 31

Port Jefferson Sunset Concert

Port Jefferson Arts Council continues its Sunset Concerts at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson with a performance by the Mick Hargreaves Band from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Free. Bring seating. Held rain or shine. 631-473-5220, www.gpjac.org

Summer Sip and Paint

The Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St. Stony Brook presents a Summer Sip and Paint Party from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Join returning instructor Linda Davison Mathues in completing a painting in the style of Joseph Reboli. The subject matter for this event will be Reboli’s ‘Still Life with Beets.” $45 per person includes all materials. Refreshments will be served. To register, visit www.rebolicenter.org or call 631-751-7707.

Music Under the Stars

Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach celebrates summer with its Music Under the Stars concert series in its parking lot featuring The Longhorns (Country) at 7 p.m. Bring seating. 631-585-9393

Summerfest Concert

The Northport Chamber of Commerce kicks off its Summerfest Concert series on Wednesday nights at the Robert Krueger Bandshell in Northport Village Park with the Liverpool Shuffle from 7:30 to 9 p.m.. Bring seating. 631-754-3905

Summer Concert Wednesdays

Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce continues its Summer Concert Wednesdays at the Train Car Park, 1 Rose Ave. (corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway), Port Jefferson Station with a performance School of Rock and a  BMX Stunt Show from 7 to 9 p.m. Bring seating. 631-821-1313, www.pjstchamber.com

Thursday August 1

Community Band Concert

See July 25 listing.

Art of the Guitar Festival

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the 4th annual Monteleone: Art of the Guitar Festival tonight to Aug. 3 with performances by Laurence Juber, Anthony Wilson Organ Trio, Frank Vignolo and Vinny Raniolo and Martin Taylor and Alison Burns; opening reception tonight at 6 p.m.; and a workshop with John Monteleone and Steve Salerno on Aug. 3 at noon. Visit www.thejazzloft.org/monteleone for more information. 631-751-1895

Dennis Cannataro Concert Series

The Dennis Cannataro Family Summer Concert Series continues at the Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown with New York’s Finest (Police/Sting tribute) tonight at 7:30 p.m. No registration required. 631-360-2480 ext. 150

Paranormal Cirque III 

Paranormal Cirque III arrives at the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove from August 1 to 4 featuring a brand new show for mature audiences. The circus will once again be under the big tent in the mall’s parking lot. According to the press release, the show is not for the faint of heart, featuring “Acrobats of the Air, Illusionists, freaks, mysterious creatures and all the elements that make one think of a “normal” Circus but that of normal has very little,” all under a black and red Clown Castle tent. A few of the circus arts on display in this new production include the Wheel of Death, mystifying MAGIC, and more. Tickets range from $20 to $60 depending on availability. No one under age 13 will be admitted to the show. Guests aged 13 – 17 must be accompanied by an adult. This show has adult language and material. The box office opens on-site on Tuesday the week of the show. Box office hours on non-show days is 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on show days, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, and 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Sunday. To order, click here or visit www.paranormalcirque.com.

Film

Stony Brook Film Festival

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook  returns for its 29th year from July 18 to July 27.  This year’s lineup boasts 36 full-length feature films and shorts from 19 countries. Tickets are $15 adults, $13.50 seniors. For more information, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stonybrookfilmfestival.com. 

‘Resistance: They Fought Back’

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen Resistance – They Fought Back on Thursday, July 25 at 7:15 p.m. with filmmaker Paula S. Apsell in person followed by discussion with moderator Dr. Jud Newborn. Tickets are $18 at www.cinemaartscentre.org.  631-423-7610 See more online at www.tbrnewsmedia.com

Theater

‘Newsies’

Stop the presses! This Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit Newsies heads to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown from July 13 to Aug. 18. Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right! Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $25 students. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org. 

‘The Merry Wives of Windsor’

The Carriage House Players at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in  Centerport continue their 35th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with The Merry Wives of Windsor from July 12 to Aug. 9. Performances are held on the Vanderbilt mansion courtyard stage on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children under age 12 at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. 

‘Legally Blonde The Musical’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Legally Blonde The Musical from July 11 to Aug. 25. An award-winning musical based on the adored movie, the show follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Tickets range from $80 to  $95. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Boeing Boeing’

The Minstrel Players, Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport presents Boeing Boeing by Marc Camoletti on July 20 and 27 at 8 p.m. and July 21 and 28 at 3 p.m. Set in the 1960s, the play centers on bachelor Bernard, who has a flat in Paris and three airline stewardesses all engaged to him without knowing about each other. Bernard’s life gets bumpy, though, when his friend Robert comes to stay, and complications such as weather and a new, speedier Boeing jet disrupt his careful planning. Tickets $20 adults, $15 seniors and adults. To order, call 516-361-7232

‘Guys and Dolls’

Celebrate St. James presents a production of the musical Guys and Dolls at St. James Episcopal Church (Mills Hall), 490 North Country Road, St. James on Aug. 23 and 24 at 8 p.m. The show takes us from the bustle of Times Square to the dance clubs of Havana to the sewers of New York City as it demonstrates the great lengths to which a guy will go when he truly falls in love with a “doll.” Tickets, which include refreshments and dessert, are $35 adults, $30 seniors. To order, call 516-272-6597 or visit www.celebratestjames.org.

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.

 

Pixabay photo

If you solemnly swear you are up to no good, six museums in the Town of Huntington invite wizards and muggles to celebrate Harry Potter’s summer birthday with exciting events from July 30 to August 11. Highlights include scavenger hunts, crafts, presentations, and Harry Potter-themed treats. Don’t miss out on the fun and magical experiences waiting for you!

Participating museums include the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium in Cold Spring Harbor, the Huntington Historical Society’s Conklin Barn in Huntington, the Northport Historical Society, the Walt Whitman Birthplace Museum in Huntington Station, The Whaling Museum of Cold Spring Harbor, and the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport.

Schedule of Events

COLD SPRING HARBOR FISH HATCHERY & AQUARIUM, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, www.cshfishhatchery.org

August 1 to 4 —  Scavenger Hunt and Craft

Go on a scavenger hunt to find magical creatures. Choose a Hogwarts pet and make a cat, rat or toad craft to take home. Free with admission.

 

HUNTINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S CONKLIN BARN, 2 High Street, Huntington, www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org

July 30 at 10 a.m. — Herbology Exploration

Herbology is the study of magical and mundane plants and fungi, and was a required class taught at Hogwarts by Professor Sprout. Come learn about how herbs similar to the ones in the wizarding world are used in our world, both in the past and the present! For ages 5 to 11. Free, registration required.

August 7 at 10 a.m. — Owl Presentation

We all know about the importance of owls as magical creatures delivering posts and parcels in the wizarding world. Harry’s owl Hedwig and Ron Weasley’s owl Pigwidgeon were great companions to our young wizards. Join us to learn some interesting facts about the owls in our own world! For ages 5 to 11. Free, registration required by visiting www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

 

NORTHPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 215 Main Street, Northport, www.northporthistorical.org

July 31 to August 4 — Harry Potter-Themed Scavenger Hunt:

Visit the Northport Historical Society Wednesdays to Sundays between 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to pick up a special Main Street scavenger hunt and embark on a magical adventure. Free.

 

WALT WHITMAN BIRTHPLACE STATE HISTORIC SITE, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, www.waltwhitman.org

July 28 to August 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Interactive Tour of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”

Test your knowledge on the book that kicked off the Harry Potter series and earn a certificate and a bag of Walt Whitman’s Beans. $5 per participant.

 

THE WHALING MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER, 301 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor, www.cshwhalingmuseum.org

July 30 to August 11 — Harry Potter Scavenger Hunt and Wand Craft 

Muggles & wizards alike can enjoy a magical scavenger hunt throughout the museum’s galleries with Huntington’s largest cauldron. Then design and decorate your very own wand craft to take home. Then create a wand to take home.  Free with admission fee to the museum.

August 1 at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. —  Fantastical Beasts & Where to Find Them workshop

Explore the myths and legends surrounding the many mythic creatures featured in the Harry Potter world and create your own dragon egg adorned with gilded seashells. Admission fee +$10 participant. $5 members. No registration required.

 

SUFFOLK COUNTY VANDERBILT MUSEUM, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

July 30 to August 4 — Explore Collections with Harry Potter-themed Map

Visit the museum and explore the collections with a Harry Potter-themed map. Free with admission.

July 30 —  Baby Giant Spider Craft

Visit the education center and create a Baby Giant Spider to take home. Free with admission.

August 4 — Magical Moth Craft 

Visit the education center and create a Magical Moth to take home. Free with admission.

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After or before the events, drop by Sweetie Pies on Main, 181 Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor and Bon Bons Chocolatier, 319 Main Street, Huntington for special Harry Potter-themed treats.

Sweetie Pies on Main will offer Harry Potter-themed drinks for purchase while Bon Bons Chocolatier will offer Chocolate Frogs, Owls and Castles, Bertie Botts and Jelly Slugs, and Golden Snitches. Guests can also enter a raffle to win a Harry Potter Birthday prize.

 

 

A  fun family event that celebrates a forgotten part of the history of the Three Villages

Tickets are now on sale for the Three Village Community Trust’s 9th annual Chicken Hill BBQ, a genuine old-fashioned country picnic to be held on the lawn of the Bruce House and the Rubber Factory Worker Houses, 148 Main St., Setauket on Saturday, Aug. 17 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Titled Celebrating a Special Time and Place in Our Past, the event will feature delicious food, live music by the Rum Dogs, house tours, raffle baskets, auction items and more with special guests Hub and Nellie Edwards.

This year’s barbecue has an expanded menu with pulled pork, BBQ chicken, corn on the cob, hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage and peppers, watermelon and more!  

At one time, the area surrounding the Three Village Community Trust’s Headquarters, and the Factory Houses, at 148 Main Street was known as Chicken Hill. Extending a half mile in each direction, Chicken Hill was a diverse, multi-cultural neighborhood that became an important foundation for today’s Three Village community! Many of the people living in Chicken Hill in the 1800’s and early 1900’s were southern and Eastern European immigrants, Irish immigrants, Native Americans and African Americans – all who worked at the local Setauket Rubber Factory. The ‘Immigrant Factory Houses’ at 148 Main Street are a visible reminder of a bygone era.

Tickets are $30 adults in advance ($40 at the door); children ages 5 to 12 $10; children under the age of 5 are free. Rain date is Aug. 18. Proceeds benefit the Trust’s ongoing restoration projects. To order tickets, visit threevillagecommunitytrust.org. 631-689-0225

All proceeds from the event will go to the ongoing restoration of the Factory Worker Houses, and the other historical properties of the Trust, as well as the upkeep of the Setauket to Port Jefferson Station Greenway. 

Date: Saturday, August 17th, 2024

Site: 148 Main Street, Setauket 

Time: Grounds open at 4pm with live music by the Rum Dogs

Tickets: $30 per person, $40 at the door, Kids 5-12 $10, Under 5 free

Online sales at: threevillagecommunitytrust.org or mail your check to TVCT, PO Box 2596, Setauket, NY 11733

Benefit: Restoration projects of the Trust.  

Bring: BYOB 

Need more info? Call H. Mones at 631-942-4558, or write to [email protected], or [email protected]  

Background: 

The three Factory Worker Houses at 148 Main Street in Setauket were built in the late 1800’s and represent an important part of the American immigrant experience.

Near this site, the Setauket Rubber Factory operated as Long Island’s leading producer of domestic goods. Hundreds of workers helped manufacture such items as shoes, boots, belts, tires and rain gear.

Immigrants arriving in New York City from Eastern Europe and Russia were promised steady work and inexpensive housing. These new Americans came to this area in the hopes of a better life, although the work was difficult, conditions poor and the pay low.

Housing was provided by the factory owners in the form of small “factory houses” located throughout the community. Each of the “company houses” has essentially two rooms – one room on the first floor and one on the second floor. Several families would crowd into the houses to afford the monthly rent payments. The area surrounding the three factory houses at 148 Main Street (a half mile in each direction) – was known as “Chicken Hill.” The factory houses at this site still maintain their original interior and exterior – allowing visitors a look ‘back in time.’

Despite the poor working and living conditions, the immigrants helped build a vibrant community. By 1881, there were enough Irish-Catholics in Setauket to hold a St. Patrick’s Day Parade and build the community’s first Catholic Church on Main Street. The Jewish population, recruited from Ellis Island, was large enough to support a synagogue – the first on Long Island outside of Brooklyn and Queens – called Agudas Achim or “Good Fellowship.

Saved from demolition due to the efforts of former NYS Assemblyman Steven Englebright, the Three Village Community Trust and dedicated community volunteers, the “Immigrant Worker Factory Houses” were moved to the Trust’s headquarters for the purpose of preservation, restoration, and education.

Today, these small, rustic houses are a visual reminder of the hopes, dreams and struggles of so many of our nation’s immigrants.  And, every year, the Chicken Hill Country Picnic keeps the memory of ‘a community lost in time’ alive!