Arts & Entertainment

Jimmy Rosica

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) will host a special Q&A event featuring inductee Jimmy Rosica, an original member and current bassist of The Brooklyn Bridge, on Saturday, May 24 at 1 p.m. at LIMEHOF’s museum location at 97 Main Street, Stony Brook. The event is free for LIMEHOF members and general admission ticket price for non-members.

“This is a must-see for fans of The Brooklyn Bridge and classic pop music,” said LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham who will host the event. “Attendees of this special event will have the rare opportunity to hear firsthand insights from Jimmy Rosica about the making of this legendary album, its standout tracks, and the band’s lasting legacy.”

This exclusive discussion will take a deep dive into the stories behind every track on the band’s classic 1968 debut album, entitled “The Brooklyn Bridge”, which featured hits like “Blessed Is the Rain,” “Welcome Me Love,” and their gold-certified smash “The Worst That Could Happen.”

“I’m really excited to share stories about our first album with The Brooklyn Bridge at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame,” Rosica said. “It’s a special part of our history that means so much to me.”

Formed in 1968 by Johnny Maestro, The Brooklyn Bridge combined the talents of The Del-Satins and Rhythm Method to create a signature sound blending doo-wop, pop, and powerful horn arrangements. With over 10 million records sold, the group left an indelible mark on American music history. The group was inducted into LIMEHOF in 2006 as Johnny Maestro and the Brooklyn Bridge. They performed at the first LIMEOF induction ceremony with LIMEHOF inductee Jimmy Webb.

Jimmy Rosica grew up in Hicksville. In addition to his career in music, he is also the founder of Very Cool Music School, an educational program using pitch pipes and continues to share his love of music with students and fans alike of all ages.

For more information, visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org

Two Grey Arches

Garden lovers in Long Island are in for a treat this Saturday, May 24, with three unique opportunities to explore three diverse private gardens through the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days program. The featured gardens are:

Tranquility

Tranquility (Mount Sinai). Hundreds of perennials, shrubs, trees, and annuals are combined with water features, lawn art, and recently relocated garden trails that allow the visitor to enter the owner’s vision of an Impressionistic garden painting. Footpaths wind through the extensive garden, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of nature and escape the general stress of modern lifestyles.

Two Grey Achers

Two Grey Achers (Setauket/East Setauket). This garden was designed by its owners to provide beauty and interest in all seasons. Adjacent to Conscience Bay on Long Island’s North Shore, the mild maritime microclimate is reflected in the broad range of taxa thriving on this intensively planted site. A remarkable collection of choice conifers and Japanese maples, amassed over three decades, creates a year-round tapestry of color, texture, and form. Come, enjoy, and find specific ideas for stunning, hardworking woody plants to add to your own garden.

Woodland Garden

Woodland Garden – Bill & Veronica Schiavo (Wading River). The property features a heavily wooded landscape with one large pond, three small ponds, and two streams. Twelve- to fifteen-foot rhododendrons and flowering shrubs encircle the house. The lawn-less, deer-resistant terrain showcases diverse plants, including a new shade and fern garden with a stone patio. A nature trail winds through the front woods alongside a 75-foot stream and waterfall. Behind the house, two ponds, one with a Japanese red maple and waterfall, are surrounded by trees and grasses. The woodland garden is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

Open Days offers a unique opportunity for visitors to peek behind the garden gates of otherwise private gardens for one day only, and to explore a variety of garden styles and horticultural traditions.

The gardens will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for registered guests. Tickets for garden visits are $10 per person, or $5 for members of the Garden Conservancy. Children 12 and under are admitted for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. All registrations must be processed online through the Garden Conservancy’s website. Visit gardenconservancy.org/opendays.

Fueling America’s passion for gardens, the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days™ program is the only nationwide garden visiting program. In 2025, Open Days marks its 30th year. Over three decades, Open Days has welcomed more than 1.4 million visitors into thousands of inspired private landscapes—from urban rooftops to organic farms, historic estates to suburban sanctuaries—in 41 states.

Celebrate turtles at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery on May 23 and 24.
PROGRAMS

World Turtle Day Celebration

Join the Cold Spring Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor in celebrating World Turtle Day on May 23 and May 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a scavenger hunt and crafts. On May 24, enjoy turtle encounters at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. along with a feeding demo at noon. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 5 to 12. 516-692-6768

Open Farm Days

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will be open to the public this weekend, May 24 and May 25, in celebration of Memorial Day from noon to 4 p.m. Tour the farm, visit with the animals, see the new babies and enjoy the Big Swing with an open mic event on a Model T truck on Saturday and sheep sheering demonstrations on Sunday. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors and children. 631-689-8172

Open Play at the Explorium

The Long Island Explorium, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson will be open on May 24 and May 25 for Open Play from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Join them in celebrating STEM, Space, Math, and Makers with hands-on activities, crafts, and more. Admission is $8 adults, $6 children. 631-331-3277

Flag Craft for Memorial Day

Drop by the Cold Spring Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for a Make Your Own Flag craft on May 24 or May 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 5 to 12. 516-692-6768

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on May 26 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

THEATER

‘The SpongeBob Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition by the Engeman Players on May 27 and June 2 at 7 p.m.  Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? Why, it’s SpongeBob SquarePants! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a hysterical musical retelling of the wonderful story Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs from May 31 to June 21 with a sensory friendly performance on June 1 at 11 a.m. Come on down for this daffy tale with a Queen, a Witch, a Princess with skin as white as snow, and seven crazy dwarfs that are guaranteed to keep you laughing from start to finish. Tickets are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

FILM

‘The Muppets Take Manhattan’

As part of its Cinema for Kids series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents The Muppets Take Manhattan on May 25 at noon. When Kermit the Frog and friends start a stage act, they decide to take the show from their college town to Broadway. However, once the Muppets wind up in New York City, they have difficulty finding financial support for the production, instead running into cheats like Murray Plotsky. Unable to stage the show, the group splits up, and they all take different jobs around the country. Just as Kermit thinks he has finally found a backer, an accident gives him amnesia. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

OPEN CAST CALL

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport will hold open auditions for ages 12 to 18 on May 29 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. to join the Engeman Select Players for two performances of Grease School Edition. Call backs will be on June 19 and 20 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and classes begin on July 1. Performances will be held on Aug. 4 and Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. Call 631-261-2900 to register.

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

This week’s shelter pet is Riley, a gorgeous, highly intelligent, well-trained, three-year-old, female black shepherd mix at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. She was brought to the animal shelter due to a change in her family’s circumstances. As a result of her broken heart, Riley takes a little extra time to trust new people. However, once she opens up, you will discover what an endearing little charmer she is.

Meeting Riley is an unforgettable experience—her natural beauty is captivating. Winning her endless love, loyalty, and devotion only requires a gentle approach, patience, and understanding. Once she feels safe and cherished, Riley will return that love a hundredfold. When you’ve earned her trust, she reveals her playful “tweenager” side, showing off her ability to perform tricks and commands that are sure to bring endless laughter and joy. Riley is truly a diamond in the rough, just waiting to shine in the right home.

Beautiful Riley is young, healthy, and has a lifetime of cherished memories to share. She would be best suited in a home with no other pets and older children.

If you are interested in meeting Reilly, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting, which includes our Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and our Dog Walk trail

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575.

For more information regarding rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

 

by -
0 1131
Huntington YMCA will hold their annual Memorial Day Weekend Carnival from May 25 to May 27.

*Please note Memorial Day parades and services will be posted separately.

Thursday May 22

Trivia Night at the Heckscher

Put your knowledge of arts and culture to the test during the inaugural Trivia Night at the Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave.,, Huntington hosted by Think Inc. Trivia at 6:30 p.m. Teams of 2 to 4 players will enjoy a night of challenging questions for all levels as they compete for prizes and the title of trivia champion. Each ticket includes two complimentary drinks and light refreshments will be provided. For ages 21 and up. Tickets are $35, $25 members at www.heckscher.org.

‘Hangoutology and Mixology’

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook, presents a very special evening  at 7 p.m. in the Loft’s Coal Bin speakeasy, where jazz lovers can enjoy some crafty cocktails and vintage music from the 1930’s to 1960’s. The event will feature “Tiki culture cocktails” and the music fad of Exotica, Les Baxter, Don the Beachcomber and more. For ages 21 and older. Tickets are $100 at www.thejazzloft.org/tickets. 631-751-1895

Native American Drumming 

All Souls Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being.  Please bring a can of food to donate if you want to help feed the hungry in our community. “Lend a hand, bring a can.”  Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Standup Comedy at the CAC

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntingotn continues its Stand-Up/Sit-Down series with Rob Bartlett at 8 p.m. with host Steven Taub. Tickets are $35, $25 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Friday May 23

Senior Dance 

Celebrate Older Americans Month at the Town of Brookhaven Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai at 1 p.m. with music by DJ Louis DelPrete. To register, please call 631-451-5312.

Huntington YMCA Carnival

Huntington YMCA, 60 Main St., Huntington hosts its annual Memorial Day Weekend Carnival today from 6 to 10 p.m., May 25 and May 26 from 1 to 10 p.m., and May 27 from 1 to 6 p.m. Featuring carnvial rides, food, a magic show,  concert by Totally Taylor Swift, games and more. Proceeds benefit the YMCA camps and programs. Free admission. For ticket ride bracelets, visit ymcali.org/carnival.

Saturday May 24

Huntington YMCA Carnival

See May 23 listing.

Quilt Show

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North Country Road, Mt. Sinai hosts its 3rd annual  Quilt Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join them to admire both old and new quilts made or loaned by those in the local community. Admission is free, raffles available with quilt sales in the Red Barn Thrift Shop next door. 631-473-1582

CSHL Walking Tour

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor will host a guided walking tour of the campus from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn about the historic and modern architecture, the Nobel legacy, and the advanced cancer, neuroscience, and plant research taking place at the lab. Fee is $9.31 per person. To register, visit www.cshl.edu. 516-367-8844.

Joseph Lloyd Manor Tours

Joseph Lloyd Manor, 1 Lloyd Lane, Lloyd Harbor will be open for tours at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. today and May 25, courtesy of Preservation Long Island. Here, Jupiter Hammon, one of America’s first published black writers, composed his best-known works while enslaved by the Lloyd family. This guided tour will lead visitors through the first and second floor of the Manor. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 ages 10 to 18, free for children ages 9 and under. To reserve your spot, visit www.preservationlongisland.org/tours/.

Smithtown Village Craft Fair

Island Fairs presents a Village Craft Fair on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown today and May 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with  over 100 local crafters, artists and vendors, children’s activities, live music, and food vendors. Free admission. 631-885-1267

Farmers & Artisans Marketplace

Farmingville Residents Association will host Farmers, Artisans and Friends Marketplace at Triangle Park, corner of Horseblock Road and Woodycrest Drive, Farmingville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 40 vendors selling local produce, handmade items, antiques & collectibles, flea market treasures and live music. 631-260-7411

Owl Hill Open House

The public is invited to attend an Open House at the Owl Hill estate to see the property and home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Owl Hill is located at 99 Sunken Meadow Road, Fort Salonga. For more information or questions, please call Legislator Trotta’s district office at 631-854-3900.

German Car Show

Rescheduled from May 17. In conjunction with their current exhibition, Getting There, the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook will  host a German Car Show from  11 a.m. to 4 p.m. curated by Nelson Medina. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply love the elegance and performance of German engineering, this event is one you won’t want to miss. Free. 631-751-7707

Open Farm Days

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will be open to the public today and May 25, in celebration of Memorial Day from noon to 4 p.m. Tour the farm, visit with the animals, see the new babies and enjoy the Big Swing with an open mic event on a Model T truck on Saturday and sheep sheering demonstrations on Sunday. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors and children. 631-689-8172

Hallock Homestead Tour

The Rocky Point Historical Society’s Noah Hallock Homestead, 172 Hallock Landing Road, Rocky Point will be open for docent or self-guided tours from 1 to 4 p.m. Come visit Rocky Point’s oldest standing house (1721) and home of seven generations of the Hallock family until 1964. The 2025 featured exhibits are “1901 E. Brush Shipwreck” and “Needlecrafts of the Hallocks and Tuthills.” $5 donation requested. 631-744-1776, www.rockypointhistoricalsociety.org

Sunday May 25

Huntington YMCA Carnival

See May 23 listing.

Joseph Lloyd Manor Tours

See May 24 listing.

Open Farm Days

See May 24 listing.

Smithtown Village Craft Fair

See May 24 listing.

Caumsett Spring Stroll

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a 1.5 mile Spring Seasonal Stroll highlighting bird nesting from 9:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Adults only. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 631-423-1770.

Ronkonkoma Street Fair

Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Memorial Day Street Fair along Hawkins Avenue in Lake Ronkonkoma from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring over 200 vendors with live entertainment, merchandise, food, children’s rides, arts and crafts. 631-963-2796

Spring Yard Sale

The Ronkonkoma Historical Society, 328 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma will hold a Spring Yard Sale from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stop by during the Ronkonkoma Sreet Fair to shop for treasures. 631-467-3152

Tal Naccarato in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Italo ‘Tal’ Naccarato from 3 to 4 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Benner’s Farm Concert

The Good Earth Sound Stage at Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket welcomes Princess Peapod and Take 2 for a Memorial Day concert at 4 p.m. Bring seating for this outdoor event. $15 donation at the door. 631-689-8172

Monday May 26

Country Line Dancing

Celebrate St. James presents Country Line Dance lessons with Natalie at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 2nd St., St. James from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come learn the hottest dances! $15 per person at the door. Please RSVP at  www.celebratestjames.org. 631-601-5109

Tuesday May 27

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to an update by Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich on current activities and answer your questions at 11 a.m. Bagels and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Board  ‘Walk’  Your Way to Wellness

Health professionals from St. Catherine of Siena Hospital will be available at Sunken Meadow State Park’s boardwalk in Kings Park tonight from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. to discuss heart health, healthy eating, weight management, breast health, stroke prevention, skin cancer, Lyme disease prevention tips, blood pressure screenings and free giveaways. 631-870-3444

Wednesday May 28

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show tonight and every Wednesday through October from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic cars in the parking lot. 631-929-3500

Goat & Alpaca Yoga

The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St. Smithtown presents two Goat & Alpaca Yoga workshops tonight (5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.) with Steppin’ Out Ponies and Petting Zoo. Tickets are $35 at www.eventbrite.com. 631-265-6768

Thursday May 29

Wine Tasting 101

Huntington Historical Society hosts a wine tasting event at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. With guidance from sommelier Louis-Victor Kuhn, explore how to taste wine, discover some classic grape varietals, understand how to define them, and learn how to read wine labels. Tickets are $65, $55 members. www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org

An Evening of Jazz

Join the Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook for a concert by Interplay Jazz Orchestra, a 17-piece big band co-directed by Joe Devassy on trombone and Gary Henderson on trumpet, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children ages 5 and up. www.thejazzloft.org

Film

‘Matter of Mind’

Save the date! As part of the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council’s Indie Lens Pop Up series, Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s by Anna Moot-Levin and Laura Green will be screened in the Gillespie Room at  the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on June 3 at 7 p.m. The documentary explores how three families confront the challenges of Alzheimer’s, focusing on how the disease transforms identities and relationships and will be incorporated into a full program of dementia events with speakers and resources. Free. Registration appreciated by visiting www.gpjac.org.

Theater

‘South Pacific’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Main Stage season with South Pacific from May 15 to June 29. This beloved musical takes place on a South Pacific island during World War II where two love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. With songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “Younger Than Spring-time,” and “There Is Nothin’ Like A Dame,” South Pacific’s lush score contains some of the best songs ever written by Rodgers & Hammerstein. For more information and to order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘Medea’

The Carriage House Players at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in  Centerport kick off their 36th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Medea from May 16 to May 28. 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. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. Call  516-557-1207 for more information.

‘Half Time’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson closes its 45th Mainstage season with Half Time from May 24 to June 22. The incredible true story of ten determined dreamers who audition to dance at half time for a major basketball team and have three things in common: they love to dance, they have something to prove, and they are all over 60 years old! Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Birthday Candles’

Lighthouse Theater Company presents Birthday Candles, a play by Noah Haidle, at St. James Episcopal Church Mills Hall, 490 North Country Road, St. James on June 13 at 8 p.m., June 14 at 3 p.m. and June 14 at 7 p.m. Follow Ernestine Ashworth, who spends her 17th birthday agonizing over her insignificance in the universe. Soon it’s her 18th. Then her 41st. Her 70th. Her 101st. Five generations, infinite dreams, and one cake baked live on stage. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors and veterans. To order, call 516-272-6597 or visit www.lighthousetheatercompany.com/tickets.

Farmers Markets

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Summer Farmers Market returns to Harborfront Park, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from May 18 through Nov. 23. 631-802-2160

Three Village Farmers Market

The Three Village Farmers Market at Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket returns on Fridays from May 16 through September (except Sept. 19) from 3 to 7 p.m. and October from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. 631-751-3730

Class Reunions

Ward Melville High School Class of 1975 will hold their 50 year reunion at St George Golf & Country Club in East Setauket on June 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. $126.00 per person includes hors d’oeuvres, Prime Rib buffet dinner and open bar. Contact Cary Fichtner-Vu  at 703-861-8259 or [email protected] for tickets by June 2. No walk-ins. 

Rocky Point High School Class of 1975 will hold their 50 year reunion at East Wind in Wading River on September 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. $150.00 per person includes  reception, hors d’oeuvres, buffet dinner, open bar and dessert. Contact Andrea at 631-774-2474 or [email protected]

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.

 

A participant at last year's tournament. Photo by Carol Tokosh

The Friends of Caleb Smith Preserve will hold its annual Catch and Release Junior Angler Fishing Tournament at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown, on Saturday,  June 14. The event is rain or shine.

The tournament will be divided into two groups: ages 5 through 8 from 9:45 to 11:15 a.m. and ages 9 to 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. Sign-in begins 30 minutes before each start time. Trophies will be awarded in three categories at each session.

Those interested in participating in the tournament must register by Thursday, June 12, and adults must accompany anglers under the age of 10. The entry fee is $20 and includes bait, hooks and bobbers, junior angler tee shirts, refreshments, and goody bags for all participants. A limited number of fishing rods are available if required. An $8 NYS Parks parking fee will be in effect. 

For more information or to register, call the Caleb Smith State Preserve office at 631-265-1054, Tuesday through Sunday.

Photo courtesy of StatePoint

Ancient civilizations had hieroglyphics, we have QR codes: the patterned graphic boxes prompting you to access restaurant menus, pay for parking, find out information about a package and more.

Generally, quick response (QR) codes are safe, but they can be used to redirect you to malicious websites, so caution is important. Here’s how it works.

• You get prompted to use your device’s camera.

• You scan the code and a link pops up.

• You click the link, exposing you to threat actors.

• You’re directed to apps, websites, locations using your maps and much more.

Bad actors understand people are in a rush, so this is an appealing form of attack. It’s a cost-efficient scam because these codes are easy to generate and distribute. And they are creative in finding new ways to make them appear legitimate. In public places, criminals can cover an official code with a sticker or printout showing a fraudulent code. Some of the more prevalent and convincing scams include:

• Parking Ticket Scams. Criminals place fake parking tickets with QR codes on windshields, causing unsuspecting victims to scan the code and click the link to learn of their offense and digitally pay the alleged fine.

• Brushing Scams. A criminal will ship goods you never ordered, then require you to scan the QR code and click the link to see who sent you the gift.

• Payment Scams. Criminals cover a legitimate QR code with a sticker that has a fraudulent code that directs to a malicious site. This can happen at gas pumps, bank windows, parking lots, etc.

• Crypto Scams. Crypto transactions are often made through QR codes associated with crypto accounts, making this an appealing target for fraudsters, especially since once crypto payments are made, it’s unlikely those funds will be recovered.

To stay safe when using QR codes:

• Check the URL: Once you scan and the link pops up, stop! Examine it for unusual domain names or shortened URLs before clicking.

• Verify the source: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources, like official websites or apps. Codes from unfamiliar sources are more likely to be malicious.

• Check for tampering: Look for signs of tampering, like altered graphics, design flaws or stickers placed atop original codes.

• Be suspicious: Treat sites asking for a password or login information as a red flag.

• Be wary of promotions: Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.

• Use a secure connection: Look for a secure connection (HTTPS) or padlock.

• Confirm validity of request: Before taking action, like making a payment or entering personal information, confirm a request to scan with the company. If you receive a QR code from someone you know, reach out to them through a known number or email to verify they sent it.

• Protect your device: Use antivirus and antimalware software.

• Report. If you identify a suspicious QR code or fall victim to a QR code scam, notify your bank and report it to law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission.

If you scan a fake QR code, your bank account, email and identity could all be at risk. For actions to take, consult PNC Bank’s Reporting Fraud page on pnc.com.

Cyber criminals are always finding new ways to defraud their victims, and QR codes are no exception. With a little caution however, you can better protect yourself. (StatePoint)

Photo from Staller Center Facebook

This summer marks a major milestone as the Stony Brook Film Festival  celebrates its 30th anniversary at Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts. Running from Thursday, July 17, through Saturday, July 26, audiences are invited to experience ten nights of extraordinary films from around the world, including world premieres, U.S. debuts, and must-sees that you cannot see anywhere else.

Early Bird Passes are on sale now, offering the best value for access to the film screenings and festival events. Pass options include the VIP Gold Pass, Regular Pass, and the Flex Pass, which grants access to any five days of the festival. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time guest, there’s a pass to match your interest and availability. Pass prices increase after June 9, so film lovers are encouraged to secure their passes early for the best price at stonybrookfilmfestival.com.

What began in 1995 as a modest campus initiative to enliven the quiet summer months has grown into a nationally recognized festival known for its bold storytelling and strong community of filmmakers and filmgoers. Over the past three decades, the festival has remained a champion of hard-to-find films, selected from over 2,000 annual submissions, and continues to thrive as a live, in-theater experience. This year’s lineup features 36 amazing short films and powerful feature-length dramas, thrillers, and comedies—many of which are screening for the very first time. These exceptional American independent and international titles cannot be seen in local theaters or streamed on any platform. They are only available on the region’s largest screen at Staller.

All passholders receive guaranteed Priority Seating, entry to filmmaker Q&As, eligibility to vote for the Audience Choice Awards, discounts at local partner businesses, and a commemorative festival gift. Each pass level includes its own set of perks, which can be found at stonybrookfilmfestival.com/pass.

Take this opportunity to be part of a cinematic tradition 30 years in the making. For more information and to purchase Early Bird Passes, visit stonybrookfilmfestival.com.

Dr. James Paci and Dr. Robert Trasolini pose with orthopedic implants. Photo from Northwell Health
The sports medicine team at Huntington Hospital’s orthopedics department has introduced two biologically advanced implant procedures designed to improve outcomes for patients with knee injuries and early joint degeneration.

Orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Robert Trasolini, DO, recently performed the hospital’s first BEAR® (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration) Implant procedure on an 18-year-old male athlete, offering a promising new alternative to traditional ACL reconstruction. The BEAR implant is a collagen-based device that, when combined with the patient’s blood, forms a collagen matrix that protects and supports the healing ligament. It contains biological signals that stimulate the ACL to heal, preserving the body’s own tissue rather than replacing it with a graft.

“This is a tremendous advancement for younger, active patients,” said Dr. Trasolini. “The BEAR implant not only restores stability to the knee but does so in a way that supports the body’s natural healing process, potentially reducing recovery time and improving long-term joint health.”

In a separate milestone, James Paci, MD, director of orthopedic surgery and sports medicine for Suffolk County at The Orlin & Cohen Orthopedic Group at Northwell, performed the hospital’s first CartiHeal Agili-C™ implant procedure on a 52-year-old female patient. The coral-based implant acts as a biological scaffold for patients with cartilage lesions who have not yet reached the stage requiring a total knee replacement.

The implant is designed to buy patients 10 to 15 years of pain relief and function before more invasive surgery might be necessary. Made from natural coral, the implant encourages bone marrow elements to migrate into the lesion, promoting the regrowth of cartilage over 6 to 9 months.

“This technology fills a significant gap in our treatment options,” said Dr. Paci. “For the right patient, typically someone too young or active for a knee replacement but dealing with painful cartilage defects, the Agili-C implant offers a bridge that restores function and improves quality of life.”

“These breakthrough procedures reflect Huntington Hospital’s ongoing commitment to delivering advanced, evidence-based orthopedic care to our community,” said Adam Bitterman, DO, chairman of orthopedic surgery at Huntington Hospital. “Innovative treatments like these not only enhance recovery outcomes but also support the long-term joint health and quality of life for our patients.”

The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) in Stony Brook recently hosted Huntington Film Director Sean Quincy King  who screened his latest film ScreamWalkers on May 17. This event was part of LIMEHOF’s Monthly Local Filmmakers Series putting the spotlight on Long Island Directors and their films.

“We’re so appreciative of the spotlight and the opportunity to screen here,” said King. “Having a place like LIMEHOF to screen local movies and feature local talent is so invaluable because it gives other people the opportunity to see what’s happening locally and to inspire. For someone who just started a band or just picked up a movie camera for the first time…to see that there is a place here that is interested and is willing to feature you and give you a chance. Filmmakers beg for that kind of opportunity.”

The film series is sponsored by Rob Eberle of Magnetic Vine and G&R Events. Following the screening, there was a Q&A panel emceed by LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham. Director Sean King, Bob Heckman, Will Puntarich, Glenn McBride Jr. and Peter Bune Jr. participated.

“The LIMEHOF Local Filmmakers Series is a celebration of the incredible filmmaking talent emerging from our region,” said Needham. “Each month, we showcase the creativity, passion, and dedication of local filmmakers, providing them with a platform to share their work and connect with audiences who appreciate the power of storytelling. This series is an important part of our mission to support the arts and highlight Long Island’s impact on the entertainment industry.”

Sean Qunicy King is an award-winning director, cinematographer, producer and actor whose films and TV credits include the cult classic comedy/horror TV show The Ghouligans! (2005-2015). He is also known for his cinematography work on the award-winning films Night For Day (2008), The Night Never Sleeps (2012), Send No Flowers (2013), and Cigarette Soup (2014). King has also worked as director on many commercials, documentaries, feature and television projects as well, such as Lost Suburbia (2007), This Mortal Coil (2010), and Hunter’s Moon(2015).

Screamwalkers was shot on Long Island in Huntington, Northport, Farmingville, and Setauket and stars actors from Long Island including Elizabeth Davoli, Glenn McBride Jr., Sasha Graham, Andy Rowell, Jason Seidl, Celia Spero, Rose Stark, Will Puntarich, Dino Castelli, Jen Elyse Feldy, Bernard Jackson, Ariann Huether, Ed Huether, Arabelis Griffin, Talia Griffin, Aidan P. Finnegan, Joe Winchell and Matt Weir.

The next LIMEOHF Local Filmmaker series film series event will be on June 21st and feature West Babylon Film Director Joe Pomarico. LIMEHOF welcomes nominations of local film directors and movies for consideration to feature in the series. For more information: Contact LIMEHOF at [email protected]

About LIMEHOF

Founded in 2004, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the idea that Long Island’s musical and entertainment heritage is an important resource to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. The organization, which encompasses New York State’s Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings (Brooklyn) Counties, was created as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music and entertainment in all its forms.  In 2022, LIMEHOF opened its first Hall of Fame building location in Stony Brook, New York. To date, the organization has inducted more than 130 musicians and music industry executives, and offers education programs, scholarships, and awards to Long Island students and educators.

###