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Camila dos Santos Photo courtesy of CSHL

By Daniel Dunaief

People often think of and study systems or organs in the body as discrete units. 

In a healthy human body, however, these organs and systems work together, sometimes producing signals that affect other areas.

Recently, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Associate Professor Camila dos Santos and graduate students Samantha Henry and Steven Lewis, along with former postdoctoral researcher Samantha Cyrill, published a study in the journal Nature Communications that showed a link in a mouse model between persistent bacterial urinary tract infections and changes in breast tissue.

The study provides information about how a response in one area of the body could affect another far from an infection and could provide women with the kind of information that could inform the way they monitor their health.

To be sure, dos Santos and her graduate students didn’t study the processes in humans, which could be different than they are in mice.

Indeed, they are in the process of establishing clinical studies to check if UTIs in women drive breast alterations.

The body’s response

In this research, the scientists demonstrated that an unresolved urinary tract infection itself wasn’t causing changes in breast tissue, but that the body’s reaction to the presence of the bacteria triggered these changes.

By treating the urinary tract infections, Henry and Lewis showed that breast cells returned to their normal state.

Further, when they didn’t treat the UTI but blocked the molecule TIMP1, which causes collagen deposits and milk duct enlargements, the breast cells returned to their normal state.

The TIMP1 role is “probably the main eureka moment,” said Lewis, who is an MD/ PhD student at Stony Brook University. “It explains how an infection in the bladder can change a faraway tissue.”

Lewis suggested that collagen, among other factors, changes the density of breast tissue. When women get a mammography, doctors are looking for changes in the density of their breasts.

Taking a step back from the link, these graduate students and dos Santos considered whether changes in the breast tissue during an infection could provide an evolutionary benefit.

“From an evolutionary standpoint, there should be some adaptive advantage,” suggested Henry, who is earning her PhD in genetics at Stony Brook University and will defend her thesis in July. Speculating on what this might be, she suggested the mammary gland might change in response to an infection to protect milk production during lactation, enabling a mother to feed her young.

Epidemiological studies

A link between persistent UTIs and breast cancer could show up in epidemiological studies.

Dos Santos and collaborators are exploring such questions in the context of European data and are working with US collaborators to collect this information.

In addition, dos Santos believes women should consider how other ongoing threats to their overall health impact their bodies. Women with clinical depression, for example, have worse prognoses in terms of disease. Humans have health threats beyond UTIs that could predispose them to developing cancer, dos Santos said.

Division of labor

Henry and Lewis took over a study that Samantha Cyrill, the third co-first author on the paper started. When Cyrill finished her postdoctoral work, Henry and Lewis “put on their capes and said, ‘We are going to take this to the end line.’ They are incredible people,” said dos Santos.

They each contributed to the considerable work involved.

Henry primarily analyzed the single cell RNA sequencing data, specifically identifying changes in the epithelial compartment. Gina Jones, a visiting CSHL undergraduate research program student, and Lewis also contributed to this.

Henry also participated in TIMP1 neutralizing antibody treatment in post-lactation involution mice, contributing to tissue collection and staining.

Working with Cyrill and Henry, Lewis contributed to the mouse work, including experiments like neutralizing TIMP1 and CSF3. Lewis also worked with Cyrill on the UTI infections in the animals and with Henry in processing tissues for single cell RNA sequencing and assisted Henry on the sequencing analysis.

While this result is compelling and offers an opportunity to study how an infection in an area of the body can trigger changes in another, dos Santos recognized the inherent risk in a new project and direction that could have either been disconnected or a been a dead end.

“It was an incredible risk,” said dos Santos. She was rejected from at least four different funding opportunities because the research is “so out there,” she said. She tapped into foundations and to CSHL for support.

Back stories

A resident of Brooklyn, Lewis was born in Queens and raised in Scarsdale. He joined the dos Santos lab in March of 2021. One of the appeals of the dos Santos lab was that he wanted to understand how life history events drive disease, especially breast cancer.

A big Mets fan, Lewis, whose current favorite payer is Pete Alonso, is planning to run his third marathon this fall.

Lewis is dating Sofia Manfredi, who writes for Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and accepted an Emmy award on behalf of the staff.

Lewis considers himself Manfredi’s “biggest cheerleader,” while he appreciates how well she listens to him and asks important questions about his work.

As for Henry, she grew up in Greenport. She joined the lab in May of 2020 and is planning to defend her thesis in July.

Her father Joseph Henry owns JR Home Improvements and her mother Christine Thompson worked as a waitress and a bartender in various restaurants.

Henry is married to Owen Roberts, who is a civil engineer and works in the Empire State Building for HNTB as a civil engineer, where he focuses on traffic.

Henry hopes to live in Boston after she graduates. She’s adopted the rooting interests of her husband, who is a fan of Beantown teams, and will support the Bruins and the Celtics. A lifelong Yankees fan, however, Henry, who watched the Bronx Bombers with her father growing up, draws the line at supporting the “Sawx.”

As for the work, Henry and Lewis are excited to see what the lab discovers in the next steps.

“I do think this work is extremely informative, defining a relationship between an infection, UTI, and the mammary gland that has not previously been appreciated,” Henry explained.

“This provides information to the public,” said Henry. “I always think it is worth knowing how different events may impact your body.”

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Author Sarah Beth Durst with a copy of her new book, 'Spy Ring.' Photo by Heidi Sutton

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

The prolific and talented writer Sarah Beth Durst has published over two dozen books, with several reviewed in this publication: The Stone Girl’s Story, The Bone Maker, The Deepest Blue, Even and Odd, and most recently, the thriller The Lake House. Durst has a particular gift for world-building, which is most prevalent in her fantasy works. With the Young Adult novel Spy Ring [HarperCollins/Clarion Books], she embarks on a different setting—Long Island and the very real Setauket and its environs. 

Rachel and Joon have been best friends since kindergarten, when they bonded over a pirate fantasy. Now, eleven years old, in July, between fifth and sixth grade, they have decided to be spies. Additionally, the inseparable pair are facing Joon’s imminent move out of the district, both fearing the toll the distance will take on their friendship.

Rachel’s mother is marrying Dave, her longtime boyfriend, of whom Rachel likes and approves. Rachel overhears Dave telling her mother that he wants to give Rachel a family heirloom, a ring that might have belonged to Anna “Nancy” Smith Strong. Strong was possibly the only known female member of the famed Culper Spy Ring that fed vital information to George Washington from 1778 to 1783. (Thus, the double meaning of the title.) Given an opportunity, Rachel sneaks a look at the ring. Engraved on the inside is “August 1 6, 17 13. Find me.” With this first clue, Rachel and Joon initiate a quest to solve the significance of this cryptic inscription. 

Rachel and Joon’s search takes Nancy off the page and makes her real to the two young detectives. The story briskly zig-zags throughout the Three Village area, with visits to the Setauket Presbyterian Church’s cemetery and Patriots Rock, Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, the Vance Locke murals at Setauket Elementary School, the Setauket Village Green, Frank Melville Memorial Park, the Setauket Grist Mill, and Caroline Episcopal Church. Durst describes each locale colorfully but succinctly as their hunt becomes an almost “history alive.” Central to the quest is time spent at the invaluable Three Village Historical Society, where they receive help, insight, and encouragement.

Durst has a terrific sense of humor, with the pair garnering one clue by remembering “the worst field trip ever.” She also gives insight into the complicated issue of historical accuracy.

“‘Sometimes historians make mistakes […] or more often, they don’t have all the information yet […] reconstructing history is like piecing together a puzzle where there’s no picture on the box, half the pieces have fallen on the floor, and the cat has eaten a quarter of them. You try to guess what the picture looks like as best you can with what you have.’”

Rachel and Joon learn that the Culper Spy Ring was the most effective espionage organization of the Revolutionary War. None of the spies ever admitted to being spies in their lifetime. Everything is theory, but much unearthed evidence supports these hypotheses. 

The author nimbly weaves historical facts and intriguing gems that paint a vivid picture of the time. She vibrantly imparts Rachel’s excitement:

The fizzing feeling was back. She had in her possession the ring of a spy who’d defied her enemies, aided George Washington, and helped found America. Even better, this spy had sent a message with her ring: Find me. This felt like the moment right before the sun poked over the horizon. Or right before a batch of dark clouds dumped buckets of rain. Or right before she bit into a fresh slice of pizza. 

The ability to communicate not just the narrative but the roiling feelings of the young—this aptly labeled “fizzing”—separates Durst from many less accomplished YA writers. The narrative is more than a mystery but a real novel of summer—of bike rides and bonds that run deep, about the fear of loss and the expectations of the future. 

One of the most evocative descriptions is that of a school during vacation:

It felt so strange to be in the school in July. The hallways looked as if they’d been abandoned. Half the bulletin boards were naked—only plain brown paper with a few leftover staples. Some staples had tufts of colorful construction paper stuck to them, like bits of party food caught in one’s teeth. 

Perfectly conjured is the combination of stillness and expectation. “It was strange to see a classroom without any students in it, in addition to the empty halls. It felt as if the whole school were holding its breath.”

A ring, a stone, a key, a powder horn, a codebook, a family Bible—even rudimentary invisible ink—are all part of this journey that is not so much historical fiction but history adjacent. 

In the end, one of the most powerful statements is the realization of why Strong left the clues. Rachel recognizes that “[Nancy] wanted someone to see her.” Sarah Beth Durst’s engaging Spy Ring offers two heroes. The first is a woman who may or may not have been the burgeoning nation’s Agent 355. The second is a spirited, insightful young person in a lively, magical adventure story.

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Meet the author at a book launch hosted by the Three Village Historical Society at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket on Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m. The event is free. To pre-register, visit www.tvhs.org. For more information, visit www.sarahbethdurst.com.

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By Melissa Arnold

Author Deborah L. Staunton

Just about every kid has trouble getting to sleep at some point. Whether they’re scared of the dark, worried about monsters under the bed or can’t turn off a chatty brain, restlessness is always unsettling. Through the lens of a curious, resilient protagonist named Josie, Deborah L. Staunton’s new children’s book, Owls Can’t Sing, helps kids face their nighttime fears and celebrates what makes them special. Gorgeously illustrated and fun to read, this book could be a big help — at bedtime or otherwise. 

Tell me about yourself. Did you always want to be a writer?

I grew up in Port Jefferson … I’ve always loved books and writing from as early as elementary school. I can remember my second grade teacher putting on my report card that she loved reading my stories, and I kept a journal beginning around 10 years old. Family, friends and teachers were always so encouraging of my writing.

What did you pursue as a career?

I went to college at the Clarion University of Pennsylvania [now PennWest University Clarion] for early childhood education, and while I was there I fell in love with the theater. So I was still majoring in education, but I was at the theater every free moment I had. Later, I went back to school for theater arts ­— I spent one year at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, and ultimately graduated from SUNY New Paltz. I developed a background in both children’s theater and adult theater, did a lot with stage management and lighting, and worked on the tech side of those things for many years.

So you’re trained in education and theater — where does writing fit in?

Writing plays such a huge part in my life. In so many ways, it’s what saved me. I’ve been through a lot, and writing is my coping mechanism. It’s the way I sort through things. I’ve had many pieces published in literary journals and magazines, and I also had a book come out last summer called Untethered, which is a memoir in poetry and short prose. It’s about my growing up with a mentally ill father, raising a mentally ill daughter, and experiencing four miscarriages along the way.

Is Owls Can’t Sing your first foray into children’s literature?

Not really — but it is my first work for children that was published. I always thought children’s literature would be my path toward publishing. I started sending out different manuscripts as far back as 1990, but the market is so inundated and I never got anywhere. I continued to write and attend writing conferences, publishing short pieces here and there until Untethered took shape, but I never gave up on kids’ books.

How did you finally publish Owls Can’t Sing?

I belong to the Author’s Guild [a national, professional organization for published writers], and a woman from there posted that her sister was starting a new publishing company called Two Sisters Press. They were seeking submissions, so I sent in my memoir and the children’s manuscript. Ultimately, they loved both, so I went from nothing to having two books published in less than a year! It’s been wonderful. 

Did you ever think about self-publishing? Why did you go the traditional route?

I pursued traditional publishing because, truthfully, I wanted validation that I really was talented and had something to offer. It was a dream of mine, and I was willing to do the hard work, taking rejections and feedback and eventually having someone choose me. It wasn’t without its disappointments or frustrations, but it was absolutely worth it.

How did you connect with the illustrator, Akikuzzaman Utshoo?

My publisher had a few illustrators I could choose from, but their styles weren’t what I had in mind, So I took on the financial responsibility of finding someone on my own. I went on the website Fiverr and saw an example cover illustration which was very similar to what is now the cover of Owls Can’t Sing. I just loved it. It was a painstaking process of working on one illustration at a time while navigating language barriers between us. Pictures are such a big part of children’s books, and I’m so glad it came out the way I envisioned.

What was the writing process like? Was this the original concept from years ago?

No, I had written a different children’s book back in the 1990s. In 2013, I met a woman at a writers’  conference who had many children’s books published. I asked if she was willing to work with me privately, and we talked weekly on the phone for eight weeks. When I gave her the manuscript, we started formulating a totally new idea. She asked me what my daughter was studying in school, and at the time it was owls. By the end of eight weeks, we had a new manuscript that didn’t resemble the original at all.

Is the main character, Josie, based on someone in your life?

My daughter is 18 and my son is 14. The character of Josie is inspired by my daughter, who has struggled with a lot in her life, including sleep. I want people to know that we don’t all fit into the same box. We don’t all have to be neurotypical, or exactly the same as everyone else, to be “normal.” We are who we are, and that’s fine.

Is there a recommended age for this book?

It’s good for all ages, but would be the best fit for ages 3 to 8. 

What’s next for you?

I’m working on a collection of poetry in memory of two friends that I’ve lost, and hopefully another children’s project, including one with my dad.

What advice would you give to people who are thinking about writing a book?

Never stop writing, and don’t be afraid to share your story because we all have a story to tell! Find the right people who are willing to give you good feedback along the way and help you to become a stronger writer. It doesn’t have to be a fancy program. But don’t go through the writing process alone.

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Owls Can’t Sing is available at your favorite online booksellers. Partial proceeds from the book will go to the International Owl Center (www.internationalowlcenter.org). Meet Deborah L. Staunton at Rocky Point Day at Rocky Point High School, 82 Rocky Point Yaphank Road, Rocky Point on May 19 where she will be selling and signing copies of her books from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Follow her online at www.DeborahLStaunton.com and on social media @DeborahLStaunton.

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Lenny Bruno Farms invites families to kickstart the farm’s season at the 2024 Country Kick-off event! Taking place on May 18 and May 19, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., this weekend event promises an array of modern and classic country music, line dancing, delicious food, hayrides, activities for kids, teens, and adults.

Admission to the event is $10 per person, granting access to a variety of entertainment and attractions, including live country music performances, a 5 oz. beer tasting, vendor booths, a toddler play area, a meet and greet with farm animals, oversized garden games, unique photo opportunities, and more! Children aged 2 and under enter free of charge.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to indulge in culinary delights from food trucks, explore offerings from artisan vendors, enjoy face painting, partake in various children and teen activity vendors, pony rides, adult activities, such as axe throwing, and embark on hayrides around the farm. Fresh fruits, vegetables, pies, ice cream, and other treats will also be available for purchase from the farm.

The Country Kick-off event marks the beginning of Lenny Bruno Farms’ season, and the first attendees will receive a special seedling packet (while supplies last) with instructions on planting seeds at home. Visitors are encouraged to come to the farm to witness the commencement of operations, discover seed planting techniques, and gain insights into the growth process.

The festivities will be enhanced by live country music performances by The Town and Country Band, line dancing sessions by Dancing with Deanna, and more!

Lenny Bruno Farms is located at 740 Wading River Road, Manorville. For more information, visit www.lennybrunofarms.com/events.

 

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Online donation site is live; community collection drives begin Memorial Day weekend

PSEG Long Island, Island Harvest Food Bank and Stop & Shop are gearing up the fourth annual PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island food drive initiative. The first in-person collection event is slated for Friday, May 24, which is also the kickoff to Memorial Day weekend. The online donation site is currently open for donations at psegliny.com/feedLI.

Collection drives will be set up at seven Stop & Shop supermarkets across Long Island, where community members can donate nonperishable food and essential care items. Any customer who makes an in-person donation will receive a free LED light bulb and a reusable shopping bag.

“We are proud to announce the 2024 kick off of PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island food collection drive to benefit Island Harvest Food Bank,” said David Lyons, interim president and COO, PSEG Long Island. “PSEG Long Island created these events for people to support their neighbors in need in their own communities, and they have been successful thanks to the generosity of Long Islanders. Their kindness in giving to this cause has generated thousands of dollars in online donations and in person contributions of cash, food, pet food and personal care items to help their neighbors. There is hunger in every ZIP code on Long Island, and PSEG Long Island is energized to partner with Island Harvest and Stop & Shop for the fourth year to help families in our communities who need it.”

Hundreds of thousands of Long Island families struggle with hunger and food insecurity throughout the year. During the summer months, there is a significant reduction in food donations to local food banks, pantries and other programs. Compounding the issue, children are not in school where they can receive free or reduced-cost breakfast and lunch. In addition, the pandemic and increased inflation continue to strain local food pantries and emergency feeding programs served by Island Harvest.

“We are grateful to have our longtime partner, PSEG Long Island, stand with us and actively support our efforts to combat hunger and food insecurity on Long Island, and its annual Power to Feed Long Island collection event demonstrates that commitment,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president & CEO, Island Harvest Food Bank. “We continue to see families struggle to put food on the table while trying to meet other essential monthly financial obligations, and the tremendous support of PSEG Long Island and Stop & Shop, coupled with the generosity of their customers who support Power to Feed Long Island, will help provide much-needed and welcome relief to our Long Island neighbors in need.”

“Stop & Shop’s primary charitable effort is to combat hunger in the communities we serve,” said Daniel Wolk, external communications manager, Stop & Shop. “We are proud to host PSEG Long Island and Island Harvest at our stores throughout the summer in support of the Power to Feed Long Island food drive. By working together, we can help Long Islanders fight food insecurity.”

There will be collection bins and drive-up/drop-off options available at each collection site. This year, there are seven collection events:

Friday, May 24 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

702 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa
Saturday, June 8 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

3126 Jericho Tpk., East Northport
Friday, June 21 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

3750 Hempstead Tpk., Levittown
Friday, July 12 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

260 Pond Path, South Setauket
Friday, July 26 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

95 Old Country Rd., Carle Place
Friday, Aug. 16 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

3577 Long Beach Rd., Oceanside
Friday, Sept. 13 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stop & Shop

365 Route 109, West Babylon

Representatives from PSEG Long Island and Island Harvest Food Bank will be available at all locations to provide information on low-income programs and money-saving energy efficiency options.

Island Harvest has a need for specific items, including:

  • Nonperishable food: Healthy varieties of canned foods, such as low-sodium beans, vegetables, soups, pasta sauces and tomato varieties, tuna and chicken, rice, pasta, nut butters, olive and canola oil, spices and pet food (no glass containers please).
  • Household essentials: Toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, laundry detergent and dish soap.
  • Personal care items: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner, feminine care products and shaving products, antibacterial wipes and washcloths.
  • Baby care items: Diapers, wipes, formula, creams, ointments and baby wash.

Additionally, information will be available from PSEG Long Island on electric service payment plans and programs, and ways to save money through energy efficiency options.

For additional information on Power to Feed Long Island, or to make an online monetary donation, visit psegliny.com/feedLI. Island Harvest estimates each dollar donated provides roughly two meals.

 

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Photo courtesy of NYS OPWDD

Partnership Offers Microcredentials Through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals for Current and Aspiring Direct Support Professionals at SUNY Campuses Statewide

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and The State University of New York (SUNY) joined with Farmingdale State College and developmental disabilities service providers Community Mainstreaming Associates, Developmental Disabilities Institute, Epic Long Island, Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Life’s WORC, The Center for Developmental Disabilities, Inc., and Viability today to celebrate the success of its Direct Support Professionals Microcredential Program. Officials were on hand to acknowledge 26 students from the first cohort who are graduating this month. Enrollment for a second cohort is happening now.

The SUNY Microcredential program, a partnership between The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals, SUNY and OPWDD, provides training that leads to national certification in the distinct skills and competencies required of today’s direct support professionals. The Direct Support Professional Microcredential opportunity is being offered at 19 participating SUNY colleges throughout the state. Direct Support Professionals who are enrolled in the program report feeling empowered to make decisions and employ best practices on the job, while preparing to take the next steps in their careers.

NYS OPWDD Commissioner Kerri Neifeld said, “The response from DSPs who want to participate in this professional development opportunity has been tremendous and is a testament to what we know to be true – the field of direct support needs and deserves a career pathway that honors the skills and best practices that these professionals bring to their jobs every day. Thank you to our SUNY partner Farmingdale State, Chancellor King and the providers who are helping their employees to take these next steps in their career. New York State is a leader in this effort and DSPs who are earning credentials from the NADSP SUNY Microcredential Program should feel proud to be a part of this movement to professionalize the field.”

SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. said, “SUNY is committed to increasing upward mobility for all New Yorkers and this program does just that. The high demand for the Direct Support Professionals Microcredential Program shows that more individuals, whether working in the field already or not, want to provide vital care to New Yorkers in need, and want to improve their skills at doing so. The success of the program has opened up more opportunities for DSPs across SUNY, including at Farmingdale State College, and I couldn’t be more excited.”

CEO of The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals Joseph Macbeth said, “The direct support workforce crisis has been well-documented for decades. Direct support work is not easy and it’s certainly not a job that just anyone can do. It requires complex skills, adherence to ethical standards and impeccable judgment. Over the past few years, OPWDD has worked closely with the SUNY system to address these challenges by developing a comprehensive microcredential initiative. Now, prospective and incumbent direct support professionals can achieve college credit, national certification and financial assistance as they learn and demonstrate their direct support skills. The leadership at SUNY and OPWDD in this area is commendable.”

Laura Joseph, EdD, Senior Vice President and Provost, Farmingdale State College said, “Farmingdale State College is honored to be part of this joint initiative with OPWDD and SUNY to provide an educational opportunity for students to become Direct Support Professionals. The funding has allowed us to develop the curriculum for the Direct Support Professional I and II credential as well as the wrap-around support needed to help students complete the course of study. Students enrolled in the DSP I and II Microcredentials are frontline workers and serve as the backbone of the Human Services industry. These microcredentials empower these professionals and further legitimize the profession. Dr. Michael Figuccio, Chair of the Psychology Department, has been instrumental in launching this program with over 30 students in the first cohort.”   

Supported through over $50 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Microcredential Program aims to assist direct support staff already working in the profession and those new to the developmental disabilities field in earning college credits that meet requirements for certification from The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals. Students will be able to secure national certification and college credit toward a certificate, associate degree or bachelor’s degree. The grant program covers tuition, certification, fees, books and student support, and students can earn a one-time $750 stipend. Each participating SUNY campus is working with an OPWDD-operated or affiliated provider partner to help upskill incumbent workers or to provide internships for those new to the field.

Enrolled students not yet working in the developmental disabilities field will be offered work-based learning opportunities with OPWDD or OPWDD-certified service providers.

These programs build on Governor Kathy Hochul’s efforts to expand the direct service professional workforce and address worker shortages.

About SUNY’s Microcredential Program

This academic year, SUNY will offer nearly 700 microcredentials at 51 of its 64 campuses. Microcredentials are smaller, academic- and skills-focused credentials that can be completed in months, not years. SUNY’s program is designed to provide earners with immediate workforce-ready skills, knowledge, and experience, while also providing a pathway to additional credentials, certificates and degrees. Recognized with the inaugural Business Council of New York State Workforce Innovation Award in Higher Education, SUNY Microcredentials increase access to higher education by providing another pathway for New Yorkers to earn the credentials they need to meet their academic and career goals, all while collaboratively meeting the needs of New York businesses and industry.

About OPWDD 

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) provides high-quality person-centered supports and services to people with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders and other neurological impairments. OPWDD provides services directly and through a network of over 600 not-for-profit providers. OPWDD’s mission is to help people with developmental disabilities live richer lives that include meaningful relationships, good health, personal growth, and a home within their community. For more information, visit www.opwdd.ny.gov or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About The State University of New York

The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNY’s 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the country’s oldest school of maritime, the state’s only college of optometry, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.1 billion in fiscal year 2022, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and one in three New Yorkers with a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit www.suny.edu.

About Farmingdale State College 

Farmingdale State College offers 46-degree programs focused on emerging, high-demand, and relevant careers to help prepare the next generation of leaders in technology, engineering, business, healthcare, science and the arts. With nearly 10,000 students, FSC is SUNY’s largest college of applied science and technology. More than half of our graduating seniors leave debt-free and 82% are employed six months after graduation or enrolled in graduate school. FSC is home to Broad Hollow Bioscience Park, which supports the development of biotech start-up companies and partners with surrounding businesses and research institutions along the Route 110 Business Corridor. Our engaging student experience, highly inclusive campus and sustained commitment to accessibility, affordability, and student support, helps make FSC one of the best values in higher education.

Photo of the announcement at Farmingdale State College attached, credit NYS OPWDD. 

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Pictured from left, Manager of Marketing & Communications Lisa DeVerna; Head Teen Services Librarian Emily Ostrander; Librarian Jennifer Mullen; Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Library Director Ted Gutmann; and Town of Brookhaven and Environmental Educator Nicole Pocchiare. Photo from Emma Clark Library
From left, Building Manager Jim Krause and Manager of Information & Technology Bob Johnson build the new little free library. Photo from Emma Clark Library
Beachgoer with Library Director Ted Gutmann. Photo from Emma Clark Library
TIME TO READ: The new Little Free Library at West Meadow Beach. Photo from Emma Clark Library

Due to popular demand, the Little Free Library at West Meadow Beach hosted by Emma Clark Library was installed before the usual time so that beachgoers may enjoy books even longer. Its official opening was Thursday, May 9.

A literary summer tradition, the Little Free Library at the beach has been going strong since its inception in 2016. After close to ten years, the structure itself had taken quite a beating; therefore, library employees have built a replacement cabinet, once again constructed from recycled materials. You might recognize the sides of the structure, which were assembled from end caps of previous library shelving units. The legs of the cabinet were made from an old library chair. 

This “Take a Book or Leave a Book” concept inspires beachgoers to read, share, and reuse and encourages lifelong reading. It is located under the pavilion at the beach. Visitors are encouraged to grab a book and/or donate one. The books are all donated by the public and cater to all ages. This little library is possible thanks in part to many generous booklovers (books are not curated or owned by Emma Clark — don’t return your library books here!). Library teen volunteers “adopt” the library each week to ensure that it is neat, undamaged, and well-stocked. There is no need to live in Three Village to participate, as long as you are a visitor to the beach. The Town of Brookhaven and Environmental Educator Nicole Pocchiare have once again graciously given their consent for Emma Clark to host the Little Free Library at the beach. 

“I was happy to take part in the installation of the Little Free Library at West Meadow Beach again this year,” remarked Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich. “The dedication of Emma Clark Library to providing access to books and knowledge for the community, especially younger readers, is truly commendable. I see the positive impact this resource has on the residents of our town. Thank you to all involved for continuing this project for nine consecutive years.”

Little Free Libraries have become an international phenomenon since their inception in 2010, and Little Free Library was established as a nonprofit organization in 2012 in Wisconsin. According to the official Little Free Library website, there are over 150,000 registered book-sharing boxes across the United States and 120 countries worldwide. Emma Clark’s Little Free Library at West Meadow Beach is registered on www.littlefreelibrary.org and can be found on the site’s official map of all Little Free Libraries. 

Emma Clark Library is delighted to increase access to books for all ages and promote the exchange of books within the community, enhancing a day at the beloved West Meadow Beach.

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Chimichurrie Chickpea Salad

By Heidi Sutton

With spring and warmer weather comes salad season, offering a perfect canvas for creating refreshing meals centered around tasty greens, juicy tomatoes and chickpeas. A rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, chickpeas are high in protein and makes an excellent replacement for meat in many vegetarian and vegan dishes. Give your salads an update and create tasty meals fit for the season like this Chimichurri Chickpea Salad and Mediterranean Orzo Salad, courtesy of Culinary.net.

Chimichurri Chickpea Salad

Chimichurrie Chickpea Salad

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

1 cup fresh cilantro

2/3 cup fresh parsley

2 tablespoons dried oregano

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

2/3 cup olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, drained

1 bag baby kale mix

1  cup cherry tomatoes, diced

1 medium avocado, diced

4 tablespoons Avocado Ranch Dressing

DIRECTIONS:

In food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Pulse until sauce is smooth. 

Place chimichurri sauce in small bowl with chickpeas; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight, if possible. 

Divide kale, tomatoes and avocado between four bowls. Top each bowl evenly with marinated chickpeas. Drizzle with avocado ranch dressing and serve.

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

2 cups cooked orzo

2 mini cucumbers, thinly sliced

3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1/2 cup arugula

1/4 cup pitted Kalamata and green olives, cut in half

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/3 cup Garlic Vinaigrette & Marinade, plus additional for serving (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

In large bowl, combine orzo, cucumbers, tomatoes, chickpeas, arugula, olives and feta cheese. Toss with vinaigrette. Serve with additional vinaigrette, if desired.

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Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook University men’s track and field program finished seventh at the 2024 CAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Elon N.C. on May 12. 

Collin Gilstrap won the 1,500-meter, finishing with a time of 3:44.33. He was Stony Brook’s lone event winner. George Franks took second place in the 400-meter, setting a new school record with a time of 45.88. He also finished seventh in the 200-meter. 

Evan Brennan placed second in the 10,000-meter with a time of 30:39.11. Michael Fama finished fourth in the 10K (31:19.09). Carlos Santos produced podium finishes in the 3,000-meter steeplechase (2nd, 8:55.79) and 5,000-meter (3rd, 14:42.22). Shane Henderson and Brennan also notched top-eight finishes in the 5,000-meter to earn points.

The Stony Brook University women’s track and field program finished 11th at the championships. Fiona McLoughlin completed the 10K in 35:55.39, placing second and earning a silver medal. She also finished seventh in the 5,000-meter (16:44.30). Grace Weigele placed fourth in the 5K, running it in 16:16.06 to pace a quartet of Seawolves competing in the event. Rebecca Clackett took fifth in the 1,500-meter with a time of 4:34.05. Danella Dawkins earned a seventh-place finish in the 100-meter hurdles (14.33). The women’s 4×100 relay quartet took seventh and the 4×400 relay quartet finished in eighth place.

“Really pleased with the effort our teams gave over the two days. The majority of our group that were expected to make the finals did; those that were seeded high in their particular event also got the job done. Obviously Collin and George were outstanding, showed great competitiveness and maturity for freshmen. Evan and Fiona battled hard in the 10,000m then came back on day two to score in the 5K’s,” head coach Andy Ronan noted. “Carlos produced two podium performances in the steeplechase and 5000m, again showing his determination to produce quality results for his team.”

“Our team placings are not where we want to be; we are in a very competitive conference, but with time and support we can build with George and Collin to be more competitive as an overall team,” Ronan added.

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Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook baseball team fell to the Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens, 10-5, in the final home game of the season for the Seawolves at Joe Nathan Field on May 12.

Prior to the game, the Seawolves honored their 2024 senior class (Evan Fox, Ryan Micheli, Matt Brown-Eiring, Quinlan Montgomery, and Brendan Pattermann) who have made lasting impacts on the program over the course of their careers. Their hard work, dedication, and contributions have and always will be greatly appreciated. 

Graduate student Ty Saunders (2-5) got the ball to start for Stony Brook (24-25, 12-12) and took the loss after allowing five runs on four hits over his 3.0 innings of work. Freshman Nicholas Rizzo allowed four runs over his 5.0 innings of work, while Montgomery allowed one run in the final inning of play. 

In the batter’s box, the Seawolves were led by Fox, who went 1-for-4 on the day with a home run and three RBI. The home run for Fox marked his 200th career hit and third bomb of the season. Brown-Eiring compiled a standout day at the dish as well, going 1-for-4 with a home run and two RBI. Johnny Pilla also contributed for Stony Brook, putting together two hits in four trips to the plate. 

Saunders and the Seawolves kept the Fightin’ Blue Hens off the scoreboard in the first two innings of play. The right-hander stranded two runners in the first inning and followed with a 1-2-3 second inning for Stony Brook. However, Delaware got to Saunders in the third by tallying four runs, including a three-run shot from Loynd to give the road team a 4-0 advantage. 

Delaware kept the offensive attack on Stony Brook by scoring a run in the fourth inning and three more in the fifth inning to go up 8-0. After Rizzo held Delaware scoreless in the sixth and seventh inning, the Fightin’ Blue Hens would score a run in the eighth to take a 9-0 lead. But, the Seawolves offense would get to work in their half of the eighth inning by tallying five runs in the inning to cut the deficit to 9-5. 

Beginning the charge in the eighth inning rally was Matt Miceli and Cam Santerre reaching on a hit by pitch and drawing a walk. With two runners on base, Fox mashed his 200th career hit by leaving the left field fence, making the score 9-3. Following the single from Pilla, Brown-Eiring would come up with his team-high sixth home run of the season that cut the Delaware lead to 9-5. 

The road team would capture another run in the top of the ninth and left a Seawolf runner on base in the final inning to ultimately  secure the 10-5 victory. 

Up next, the team returns to the diamond on May 16 as they head to Boston to battle Northeastern in a three game set. First pitch for the final CAA series of the season is slated for 2  p.m. and can be streamed live on FloBaseball.

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