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Gordon Lightfoot performing in Interlochen, Michigan in 2009. Photo courtesy of Charles Backfish

By Rita J. Egan

WUSB’s Sunday Street Series at The Long Island Museum has a tradition of bringing artists together to celebrate musical legends. On March 24, they will be adding a bit of Canadian flair.

The series will present Long Island Celebrates Lightfoot — a celebration of the songs of Gordon Lightfoot, the renowned Canadian songwriter and singer who passed away on May 1, 2023 at the age of 84.

With a music catalog encompassing 20 studio and three live albums, more than a dozen musicians will perform hits such as “Early Morning Rain,” “If You Could Read My Mind,” “Sundown,” “Carefree Highway,” “Ribbon of Darkness,” “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” and some of his lesser-known tracks on March 24.

Producer Charles Backfish said Lightfoot had been recording and touring since the 1960s up until a year or so before he passed away. “I’m really excited about this one, because, first of all, he is a songwriter of major stature, and secondly, he’s someone from up north that I think needs to get a little bit more acknowledgement in the United States,” he said.

Backfish added that while the singer/songwriter is known to some degree in this country, people may not be familiar with the range of Lightfoot’s albums. One song, “Black Day in July,” is about the 1967 Detroit Riot. The single was banned from some U.S. radio stations because many thought it was too political.

Ray Lambiase, who will be performing during the show, said when he was younger, his friends would listen to groups such as The Beatles. He, however, was listening to artists such as country blues singer Missippi John Hurt and folk-blues duo Sunday Terry and Brownie McGhee. He learned how to play guitar listening to folk music, and Lightfoot’s “Early Morning Rain” was one of the songs he would play early in his career.

“I’ve been playing ‘Early Morning Rain’ since I was 18, and that was over 50 years ago,” he said.

Lambiase will perform the song with other artists on March 24. He will also play “Did She Mention My Name” and “Sundown.” He added the shows allow singers and songwriters of every age an opportunity to collaborate.

“It’s just nice having everybody together, and you don’t often get that kind of a chance where everybody’s in the same room,” Lambiase said. “You get to catch up a little bit, and it generates such a warm feeling. It’s always a wonderful night and hopefully that somehow translates to what the audience is picking up.”

Among those multigenerational artists will be Andrew Fortier and his son and daughter, Cole and Andie. 

Andrew Fortier said it’s been interesting watching his children discover Lightfoot’s work. “They actually bring up stuff that I missed,” he said, adding both have eclectic tastes.

The singer, who has always been a fan of Lightfoot’s work, said digging into an artist’s music catalog for The Sunday Street Series is always a pleasant surprise.

“I’m 60 years old, so I grew up with Gordon Lightfoot in the 70s,” he said. “I’m a total fan, but you become more of a fan when you start backtracking and listening to cuts you’ve never heard before.”

Andrew’s son Cole said this will be the second Sunday Street show he has performed in. The musician said he’s enjoying studying Lightfoot’s music, describing the songs as fluid.

“What I’ve noticed about him particularly is his songs are very strophic, there’s not really any bridges, and they’re played through, which is kind of typical as a more traditional folk sound,” Cole said. “But, what’s interesting is just the long form vibes of these songs that go on and roam for a little while with these amazing lyrical narratives.”

Mary Lamont, who was raised in Canada, will also be among the performers at the Lightfoot event. The lead singer of the Mary Lamont Band said she was familiar with the singer/songwriter when she was younger but grew to appreciate his songwriting and singing more in later years.

The Sunday Street Series shows feature the artists performing two songs each. Lamont, whose husband Jim Marchese and bandmate Rich Lanahan will accompany her on acoustic guitars, said it can be challenging to narrow it down to two tracks when someone has such an extensive catalog. To choose, she listens to the artist’s albums until a song hits her. In this case, she chose two songs, “Cold on the Shoulder” and “Alberta Bound.” In the latter Lightfoot included references to Canada, including Toronto, which is about three hours from where Lamont grew up.

“That was the reason why I picked that song,” she said. “It had so many Canadian references.” She added she feels “every country has its own pride about people.” 

“I feel a certain pride and really a newfound respect for Gordon Lightfoot’s music, too,” Lamont said. “I have to thank Charlie for that.”

Backfish and the performers hope the audience will leave the show with a deeper appreciation of Lightfoot’s music.

“They’re going to hear a lot of songs that they’re not familiar with, and for me, the best thing would be for them to walk away realizing what a career and what a lasting body of work Gordon Lightfoot really left us,” Lambiase said.

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Long Island Celebrates Lightfoot will take place in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on Sunday, March 24 at 5 p.m. and will feature local musicians Gene Casey, Caroline Doctorow, Mick Hargreaves, Ray Lambiase, Mary Lamont with Jim Marchese, Rich Lanahan, Russ Seeger, Hank Stone, Bob Westcott, and Andrew, Cole and Andie Fortier. 

Advance sale tickets are available at www.sundaystreet.org for $25 with tickets at the door, if available, for $30 (cash only).

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#12 Jack Dougherty during Saturday's game. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook men’s lacrosse team fell to No. 16 North Carolina, 12-8, on March 16 at LaValle Stadium. Dylan Pallonetti spearheaded the Seawolf attack with a team-high three goals.

Stony Brook jumped out to an early 2-0 lead after Jack Dougherty and Pallonetti both found the back of the net. The Tar heels answered back, notching back-to-back goals just 13 seconds apart to even the score at the 7:01 mark of the first quarter. The teams then traded a goal each to conclude the opening period tied at 3-3.

After both teams scored a goal in the opening five minutes of the second quarter to even things at 4-4, the Tar Heels broke the tie with a pair of goals to head into the locker room with a 6-4 lead.

North Carolina exploded for four straight goals to open the third quarter. Stony Brook got on the board in the final seconds with a goal from Pallonetti that narrowed the deficit to five goals heading into the final frame.

A late push from the Seawolves brought the game within four, but the Tar Heel defense held strong to secure the victory at LaValle Stadium.

“Proud of the effort; I thought we had a great week of practice and played hard today, which is what we asked them to do,” head coach Anthony Gilardi said. “I think it’s some of the same things for us; we have to play smart lacrosse. Conference play is here.”

Up next, the team stays at home for a CAA matchup, facing off against Monmouth on Saturday, March 23, at noon from LaValle Stadium. The meeting will stream live on FloLive.

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Cannoli
Cannoli
Cannoli

This week’s featured shelter pet is Cannoli, a black and white domestic short hair up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. 

Have you ever wished for a cat that needs you as much as you need them?

Estimated to be around 9 years old, this sweet and affectionate cat has had her heart broken twice! Both were not her fault. Her first pet parent went into assisted living, and surrendered her to the shelter. The second pet parent passed away suddenly. 

Cannoli needs her next home to be her final home. Nothing but the best will be accepted for this lovely girl! She has no medical issues, likes children and calm dogs and most likely other cats. 

If you are interested in meeting Cannoli, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with her in a domestic setting.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are 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 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

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Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook University softball team completed a weekend sweep of Charleston, topping the Cougars 10-8 on March 17. 

Emily Reinstein racked up four of the Seawolves’ season-high 16 hits, while Catherine Anne Kupinski and Julianna Sanzone drove in a pair of runs apiece. In addition to her four hits, Reinstein had two doubles and an RBI to lead the Seawolves. Kupinski put together a noteworthy effort as well, going 3-for-4 with a home run and two RBI. Sanzone also chipped in for Stony Brook, putting together two hits in four trips to the plate while adding a double and two RBI.

Ashton Melaas earned the victory out of the bullpen for Stony Brook. The right-hander went 5.2 innings, giving up two runs, both of them earned, on nine hits, allowing one walk and striking out three.

The Seawolves got on the board immediately, starting their scoring in the top of the first inning. Stony Brook scored three runs in the frame, highlighted by a two-RBI double from Sanzone.

The Seawolves lost the lead they built in the first, but got back on the board in the second, tying the game at four. Alicia Orosco tied things up by beating out an infield single, scoring Reinstein from second base.

Charleston broke that tie and again took a lead moving into the third, but Stony Brook re-took the lead, 7-6, after three innings. Naiah Ackerman, Reinstein and Corrine Badger all plated a run in the frame.

Stony Brook held the Cougars without a run then added an insurance run in the fourth. Kyra McFarland crossed home plate on a fielding error with two outs, pushing Stony Brook’s advantage to 8-6.

After Charleston got within one run again, Kupinski blasted a two-run homer to make it a three-run lead heading to the bottom of the sixth. 

Charleston put one run on the scoreboard before the game was over, but the Seawolves held on for the 10-8 win.

“We really had to earn this win today and I’m proud of our team for fighting for it. It was a team effort, with RBIs from six different players, and multiple players coming up with huge defensive plays,” head coach Megan T. Bryant said. “Ashton was excellent in relief and finished the game strong. The series sweep helps us immensely. Most importantly, we are improving as a team and figuring out what it takes to be successful.”

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Catch a screening of 'Turning Red' at the Cinema Arts Centre on March 24.

PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Clever Creatures on March 22 at 9:30 a.m. Children ages 2 to 4 years of age will learn about the wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.

Teddy Bear Clinic

The Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson will host a Teddy Bear Clinic with special guests from the Stony Brook University Nursing Department on March 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. Bring in your favorite teddy bear for a check-up and learn about health and wellness in a fun and interactive way. Nurses will help you check your teddy’s vital signs, give them a vaccine shot, learn to bandage boo-boos, check mental health, and promote body positivity and good nutrition. Admission is $8 adults, $6 children. 631-331-3277

Ssssensational Ssssnakes

Slither on over to Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown to see a selection of several ssssensational serpents on March 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. Participants will meet several snakes and learn about their unique adaptations through games and other participatory activities. Create a cool snake craft to take home. For families with children over the age of 5. Fee is $15 per child, $5 for adults. Register at www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on March 25 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008

Mister Golden Sun 

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program, Mister Golden Sun, on March 28 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent or caregiver will enjoy short walks, story time, animal visitors, and crafts with age appropriate info on the dynamics of the sun and the moon and eclipses. $4 per child. Call 631-269-4333 to register.

THEATER

Disney’s ‘Descendants’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical  from March 16 to 30. Imprisoned on the Isle of the Lost, the teenaged children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil have never ventured off the island… until now. When the four are sent to attend prep school alongside the children of beloved Disney heroes, they have a difficult choice to make: should they follow in their parents’ wicked footsteps or learn to be good? Tickets are $18 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Alice in Wonderland’

Up next for the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland from March 23 to April 28. Alice takes a tumble down an enchanted rabbit hole to an off-kilter world of mock turtles, dancing flora, punctual rabbits, and mad tea parties. Will Alice be able to find her footing in this bizarre place? ill she ever figure out how to get home? All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a perennial favorite, The Adventures of Peter Rabbit, from April 13  to 27. “Over the hill and through the garden …” That mischievous rabbit Peter just can’t stay out of the McGregors’ garden! With help of his sisters—Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail—and his cousin, Benjamin Bunny, Peter learns the power of sharing and caring. Tickets are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

FILM

‘Hop’ Aboard the Bunny Express

Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce invites the community to a screening of Hop in the Chamber Train Car, southeast corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station on March 22, 27 and 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. $20 per person includes movie, water, popcorn, and cookie with a visit from the Easter Bunny at the end. To reserve your seat, visit www.pjstchamber.com or call 631-821-1313. 

‘Turning Red’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Turning Red on March 24 at noon. The film introduces Mei Lee, a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn who whenever she gets too excited (which is practically ALWAYS), she “poofs” into a giant red panda! Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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THE GRAND FINALE The award-winning father/son duo Beaucoup Blue closes the WinterTide concert series at the Port Jefferson Village Center on March 22.
Thursday March 21

Swing Into Spring Festival

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook and Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright present the 7th annual Swing Into Spring Music Festival tonight through March 23, bringing with it an assortment of opportunities to hear live jazz music throughout Setauket and Stony Brook at six locations including The Jazz Loft, Sweet Mama’s, Schnitzels, The Country House, Madiran Wine Bar, Bliss Restaurant and the Three Village Inn.  For a full schedule of events, visit www.thejazzloft.org. 631-751-1895

Thankful Thursday at the Vanderbilt

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Thankful Thursdays series tonight with a free family-friendly planetarium show titled STARS: The Powerhouses of the Universe narrated by Mark Hamill at 7 p.m. After the show, the observatory will be opened to the public and an astronomy educator will invite you to look through a telescope at the night sky (weather permitting). Recommended for ages 6+. Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

How to Survive Rising Food Prices

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for an informative lecture on How to Survive Rising Food Prices from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Discover ways to save money in the supermarket along with how to prepare meals that are budget-friendly with Janice Imbrogno. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org to register.

Friday March 22

Swing Into Spring Festival

See March 21 listing.

WinterTide Concert

The Village of Port Jefferson Dept. of Recreation and the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council closes their Winter Tide concert series at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson with a performance by award-winning father/son duo Beaucoup Blue in the Sail Loft Room (3rd floor) from 7 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door. 631-802-2160

Coffee House Concert

Celebrate St. James continues its Coffee House concert series at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James with a performance by flue ensemble Floot 4 at 7 p.m. Special coffee beverages and tea along with sweet treats will be served. Tickets are $25, $20 members at www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Hispanic Heritage Night

Kings Park Heritage Museum, RJO Middle School, 101 Church St., Kings Park hosts a Hispanic Heritage Night at 7:30 p.m. featuring the dynamic sounds of Moonflower — Spirit of Santana. Free admission. 631-269-3305

Adam Pascal in Concert

The original star of Rent makes his long-awaited return to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts’ Recital Hall, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook at 8 p.m. Join Adam Pascal for an intimate evening of brilliant music from Broadway classics to Rock hits and everything in between! Tickets range from $50 to $65. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Saturday March 23

Swing Into Spring Festival

See March 21 listing.

Spring Craft Fair

Time to shop! Hauppauge High School, 500 Lincoln Ave., Hauppauge will host a Spring Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience featuring over 100 local artisans showcasing their handmade goods. From beautiful jewelry to stunning home decor, there’s something for everyone. Plus, admission is free! Proceeds benefit the Hauppauge Educational Foundation. 631-846-1459

Garage Sale Fundraiser – This event has been postponed to April 6.

Drop by Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for an Outdoor Thrift Garage Sale around the  double garage in the Sweetbriar parking lot from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. featuring household items and fun treasures! Money goes back into the wildlife center. Donations welcome. Call Joe at 631-901-5911 for more information.

Art League Open House

Art League of Long Island, 107 E. Deer Park Road, Dix Hills invites the community to its grand re-opening Open House from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join them for a day of art, tour the newly renovated art center and much more. Free. 631-462-5400

Reboli Center Art Reception

The Reboli Center for Art & History, 604 Main St., Stony Brook will host an artist reception for its latest exhibit featuring  the contemporary works of the Studio 268 artist group from 2 to 4 p.m. Enjoy a chance to meet the artists of the show, enjoy the exhibition along with some light refreshments. This special event is free to attend and open to the public. The show runs through April 28. 631-751-7707

St. James Ghost Investigation

Celebrate St. James continues its Living History series with A St. James Ghost Investigation at 7 p.m. Medium and paranormal investigator Joe Giaquinto returns to the Calderone Theater/St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James to record any haunting phenomena of the historic theater. Tickets are $35, $30 members at www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Sunday March 24

Spring Car Show

The first car show of the season heads to the Long Island Community Hospital Ampitheater at Bald Hill, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hundreds of classic and collectible automobiles including street rods, muscle cars, antiques, exotics and imports will be on display along with a swap meet, live music by The Fugitives, food and refreshments. Admission fee is $10 adults, free for under age 12. 631-567-5898 

Model Train Show

The Smithtown Historical Society will present its annual Model Train Show fundraiser at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Operating layouts on display include Long Island HOTracks (HO Scale), Frank Kabylarz (N Scale). Admission is $5 adults, $3 children ages 3 to 12. Proceeds will benefit the historical society. 631-265-6768

Ronkonkoma St. Pat’s Day Parade

The 35th annual Ronkonkoma St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held at 2 p.m. Grand Marshal Greg Plante will lead the parade from Hawkins Avenue at School Street, south down Hawkins Ave ending at Thorne Street. Call 631-304-6303 or visit www.ronkonkomaparade.org.

Black and Sparrow in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Klyph Black and John Sparrow (Rockin Americana) from 3 to 4 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. For more information, call 631-689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org. 

Monday March 25

SHS Spring Lecture

Smithtown Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Mai St., Smithtown with The Art of William Sidney Mount: Long Island People of Color on Canvas from 7 to 8:30 p.m.  Discover a lost world of farmers cutting hay with scythes and dancing to fiddle music on barn floors through the Long Island paintings of William Sidney Mount. Explore vivid depictions of people of color, presented with great humanity when racist caricatures were the norm. Presented by historian and author Vivian Nicholson-Mueller. Light refreshments will be served. Free but donations welcome. 631-265-6768

Tuesday March 26

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to special screening of A Yiddish World Remembered in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-373

PJS/Terryville Civic Meeting

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road Port Jefferson Station will host the monthly Port Jeff. Station Terryville Civic Association meeting at 7 p.m.  On the agenda will be the bi-annual Civic Association Officers election meeting, Brookhaven Supevisor Dan Panico and Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich and normal civic reports, redevelopment of Rte. 112 corridor and more. Open to all.

Wednesday March 27

Ilona Kaydanov Memorial Concert

Last year the Hauppauge High School Community suffered a loss of their former student, Ilona Kaydanov. To honor her, the school is looking to create spaces that will benefit students while memorializing Ilona and her passions. To raise money toward this initiative, the school will be hosting a memorial concert in her honor at Hauppauge High School, 500 Lincoln Blvd., Hauppauge tonight from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door with raffles and concessions available for purchase.

Thursday March 28

Vanderbilt Lecture

Rescheduled from March 7. Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series with Mapping Historical New York: A Digital Atlas at 7 p.m. Historians Gergely Baics and Rebecca Kobrin will discuss Manhattan’s and Brooklyn’s transformations during the late nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries. Drawing on 1850, 1880, and 1910 census data, the Digital Atlas shows how migration, residential, and occupational patterns shaped the city. $10 per person. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation 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.

Sound Bath Meditation

North Shore Public Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham hosts a program titled Sound Bath Meditation at 7 p.m. Join Susan Ferro for this transformative, deep healing Sound Bath session with Tibetan Bowls, Crystal Bowls, Gongs, Chimes and Drums! Sound and music to calm the mind and body. Open to all. To register, call 631-929-4488.

An Evening of Comedy

Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for an evening of Stand Up/Sit Down comedy with Chris Monty at 8 p.m. In his stand-up, Chris channels the style of the 1960’s cool funnyman mixed with a modern chic. After his set he’ll share stories about his comedy career and many acting roles with host Steven Taub. Tickets are $40, $30 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Film

‘Lady Sings the Blues’

Join the Cinema Art Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a screening of Lady Sings the Blues (1972) on March 24 at 2:30 p.m. Pop superstar Diana Ross portrays legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday in this powerful biographical drama. Includes post-film discussion and Q&A with author Paul Alexander in-person with his new biography of Billie Holiday, Bitter Crop. Tickets are $16 film only, $36 film and book. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Story and Pictures By’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its Spring 2024 season with a screening of Story and Pictures By, the first feature documentary to take audiences behind the scenes to meet the boundary pushers who create children’s picture books, at JFK Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on March 25 at 7 p.m. Guest speaker will be filmmaker Joanna Rudnick. Tickets are $10 per person at www.portjeffersondocumentaryseries.com or at the door. 

‘Arrival’

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Science on Screen series with a mind-expanding exploration of the mysteries of language and communication, featuring a lecture and Q&A with neuroscientist Arkarup Banerjee, of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and a rare big-screen showing of Denis Villeneuve’s profound 2016 drama ARRIVAL on Tuesday, March 26 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org. 

Theater 

Festival of One-Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 25th annual Festival of One-Act Plays from  Feb. 24 to March 23 at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre, on the Second Stage. Selected from over 2,000 submissions world-wide, these eight cutting-edge premieres are guaranteed to entertain and engage. Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the plays will feature Sean Amato, Ginger Dalton, Jae Hughes, Brittany Lacey, Phyllis March, Andrew Markowitz, Linda May, Rob Schindlar, Evan Teich, Steven Uihlein, Julia Albino, Courtney Gilmore, Gina Lardi, and Cassidy Rose O’Brien. Please Note: Adult content and language. All seats are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Jersey Boys’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents Jersey Boys, the story of Franki Valli & The Four Seasons, from March 14 to May 26. They were just 4 guys from Jersey until they sang their very first note–a sound the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a different story–a story that has made them a sensation all over again. Winner of the 2006 Tony© Award for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys features the top ten hits “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night).” To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B12.

‘(Mostly) True Things’

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St, Port Jefferson presents (mostly) TRUE THINGS, a game wrapped in a storytelling show that features true stories — with a twist — and a game that will have an additional entertainment feature on March 23 at 7 p.m. Storytellers will include Sandi Marx, Brian Grossi, Aaron Foss, and Jude Treder-Wolff. Tickets are $20 each on eventbrite.com or $25 at the door (cash only). 

‘Murder on the Orient Express’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Murder on the Orient Express, a thrilling mystery about the most infamous case of one of fiction’s most famous detectives, from April 6 to May 4. Murder and mayhem await renowned investigator Hercule Poirot as he boards a train filled with treachery and intrigue. Featuring a shadowy American, a train full of suspects, a notebook’s worth of alibis, and a singular Belgian sleuth whose mustache twitches at murder, all aboard the Orient Express! Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 28. 631-802-2160

Lake Grove Farmers Market

Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove hosts a Winter Farmers Market in the southwestern quadrant of the parking lot (adjacent to Bahama Breeze) on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 516-444-1280

Class Reunions

•Centereach High School Class of 1974 will hold its 50th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on April 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, email Jean Ann Renzulli at [email protected].

•Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].

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'Voices and Votes' exhibit

‘Voices and Votes: Democracy in America’ will be on view in Cold Spring Harbor from March 22 to May 3

Preservation Long Island has been chosen to be the first venue in New York State to host the “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” exhibition which examines the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people,” and how each generation since continues to question how to form “a more perfect union.”

This initiative is all part of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street program — a national/state/local partnership to bring exhibitions to small town and rural cultural organizations across America. The exhibit will be on view at the Preservation Long Island Exhibition Gallery, 161 Main Street, in Cold Spring Harbor from March 22 to May 3 before touring eleven more communities across New York through January 2026.

“Preservation Long Island is excited to serve as the inaugural site for “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America,” said Alexandra Wolfe, Preservation Long Island Executive Director. “The exhibition’s focus on freedom, civic participation, and political engagement resonates strongly with our commitment to making the past relevant to the present.” 

The exhibit engages multimedia interactives with short games; and historical objects like campaign souvenirs, voter memorabilia, and protest material and will include a section that incorporates art and artifacts drawn from Preservation Long Island and other local collections. 

“The objects we chose connect the broader historical narratives of Voices and Votes with Long Island people and stories—addressing themes such as the ways people make their voices heard, who is left out of the conversation, and the roles and responsibilities of citizens,” said Lauren Brincat, Preservation Long Island Curator.

Among the local highlights in the exhibition is an original essay by Jupiter Hammon (1711–ca. 1806), America’s first published African American poet, written while he was enslaved at Joseph Lloyd Manor in Lloyd Harbor shortly after the American Revolution, advocating for the citizenship of Black New Yorkers in the new nation. Other items include a bracelet and ring made from scrap sheet metal by women aircraft factory workers on Long Island as the United States fought to preserve democracy abroad during World War II, and the drawings and models for the national monument to African American civil rights leader and women’s rights activist, Mary MacLeod Bethune (1875–1855), created by Long Island artist, Robert Berks (1922–2011) in 1974. 

“‘Voices and Votes’ allows us to reflect on Cold Spring Harbor and the surrounding community history and explore what it means to be an active participant in the governance of not only the country but also this community,” said Andrew Tharler, Preservation Long Island Education and Engagement Director.

The series of local exhibition-related programming and free events include a community quilt project, curator-led exhibition and walking tours, lectures, community conversations and an oral history series. To preview the full schedule, visit preservationlongisland.org/voices-and-votes/.

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Photo courtesy of Adventureland
Photo courtesy of Adventureland
Photo courtesy of Adventureland
Photo courtesy of Adventureland
Photo courtesy of Adventureland
Photo courtesy of Adventureland

Partnership with Catholic Health; New Rides: ‘Moon Chaser,’ ‘Jr. Pirate Ship,’ and ‘Wave Twister’ Announced 

Adventureland in Farmingdale has announced the details of its multi-year, five-phase $10 million redevelopment plan of Long Island’s most popular amusement park, as well as a new partnership with Catholic Health. This marks one of the biggest investment projects in the park’s 62-year history since the installation of the ride called ‘Turbulence’ in 2015, which cost $5 million. The announcement was made at a press conference on March 19. 

“We saw an opportunity to improve and enhance the guest experience,” said Caitlin DiSclafani, Park Manager of Adventureland. “These investments add value to the park and to the guests’ experience. We’re excited to leave a lasting legacy in the park for generations to come.”

The most visible and immediate change is the addition of two new rides for the upcoming 2024 season, which include the ‘Jr. Pirate Ship Ride’ and ‘Moon Chaser.’ The second phase involves the addition of a first-of-its-kind custom-made ride called ‘Wave Twister,’ which is expected to open in time for the spring 2025 season. There are at least two more planned rides that are to be added over the next three phases. These will be the first new rides since the addition of the ‘FireBall’ in 2022, which was a $2 million investment.

“Our family is very excited to bring the dream of redeveloping Pirate’s Cove into reality with the groundbreaking of Legacy Corner,” said Steve Gentile, President of Adventureland. “We are thrilled to kick off this 5-year project with Moon Chaser, which I’m sure will be an amazing addition to Adventureland and fan favorite for the people of Long Island. To be able to have the best that our amusement industry has to offer right here in Farmingdale – the heart of Long Island- is something very special. It is a privilege that we do not take for granted!”

Adventureland estimates that by the end of the fifth phase, there will be a 10% growth in employment to support the new ‘Legacy Corner’ section, which is expected to be completed in 2028. 

 Catholic Health Partnership

Catholic Health is sponsoring the main entrance and the City Hall Building, which has now been renamed the Catholic Health Wellness Center. This area is home to ‘Guest Relations,’ ‘First Aid,’ and the ‘Lost and Found.’ Another addition is a blue line throughout Adventureland that will direct guests from anywhere in the park to the Catholic Health Wellness Center. 

 “Catholic Health is pleased to serve as lead sponsor for Adventureland, Long Island’s favorite amusement park,” said Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy, president and CEO of Catholic Health. “With deep roots in Long Island and an ongoing history of partnering with the communities it serves, we’re thrilled to do our part to ensure that the communities of Long Island will always have opportunities to make lasting memories in a family-friendly environment. Adventureland is all about bringing families and friends together, and so is Catholic Health.”

Catholic Health will also have a presence in the park during family-friendly events like the ‘Egg Scramble’ and ‘Pumpkin Park’. Catholic Health will also feature a variety of health-focused educational programs for park guests throughout the season. 

“Adventureland and Catholic Health both support the health, wellness, and safety of Long Island families, so we are very excited to announce a partnership between these two Long Island institutions,” said DiSclafani.

Legacy Corner 

A large part of the investment will be the creation of the ‘Legacy Corner,’ which will be on the front southeast side of the park about a little over an acre in size. In addition to at least four new rides, brand-new concession stands, restrooms, and other amenities will be constructed. Annually, Adventureland hires over 650 part-time employees. It’s estimated that the increase in employment to service these new areas will lead to a 10% increase in park employment by the end of the fifth phase. The full five-phase project is expected to be completed by 2028. 

Retired Rides

In the weeks leading up to its 2024 season opening, Adventureland announced the retirement of the ‘Log Flume,’ ‘Pirate Ship’ ride and ‘Spinning Cars’ to make way for new rides. 

The ‘Pirate Ship’ ride was installed in 1987, which makes it over 35 years old. Adventureland officials say it was about time to replace the aging rides. 

“With older rides—they need more maintenance and become difficult to repair over time. And, also—finding replacement parts becomes increasingly difficult as the parts are no longer being made,” said DiSclafani.

The ‘Log Flume’ was replaced for a few reasons, one of which was that it took up a significant amount of space—about 10%—of the entire park. It also had limited seasonal use from May through September. In contrast, the new rides will be utilized all season long, from March through early November. 

The ‘Spinning Cars’ were retired to make way for the ‘Jr. Pirate Ship’ ride. The ‘Antique Cars’ are expected to be retired during the third phase of the plan. 

New Rides

The ‘Jr. Pirate Ship’ ride is geared towards—but not limited to—children who are from 5-to-8 years old. (They must be about 36″ tall to ride with an adult and 47″ tall to ride alone.) This ride is located by ‘Kiddieland’ near the arcade. It is similar to the larger scale ‘Pirate Ship’ ride which was recently removed to make room for the ‘Moon Chaser.’ 

The ‘Moon Chaser’ is a 45′ tall galaxy-themed thrill ride which spins, twists, dips, and inverts riders. This ride is unique because it is currently the only one in the park that goes upside down. It is similar to the size and footprint of the ‘Pirate Ship’ ride it is replacing. This ride is geared towards children who are 11 years old or older. (Anyone who wishes to ride this must be at least 55″ tall.) This ride seats 28 people at a time. 

The Moon Chaser is considered a flat ride—which means it depends on power—and riders will experience immediate thrills as soon as the ride starts. 

The second phase will introduce the new ride— ‘Wave Twister.’ This is a first-of-its-kind ride that was custom built for Adventureland. This newly-created ride that will make its debut in the United States. The track is custom built in a boomerang shape to fit into the corner of the ‘Legacy Corner,’ which will maximize the available space in that section. It’s estimated that one or two more rides can fit in that section, which was formerly referred to as ‘Adventure Falls.’ The plan is to expand more rides within the existing footprint of the park. 

The ‘Wave Twister’ is a family ride. It was made in Switzerland by RES Rides—the same company that built the ‘FireBall’ ride. Similar to ‘Wave Twister,’ this ride has a boomerang shape to simulate the motion and feel of riding on ocean waves. It will spin and travel over a track and reach heights of up to 60 feet at its peak. Although it is a dry ride, it will feature water elements in the forms of fountains and mists. It features two gondolas in a figure-eight shape and can fit 20 riders per cycle. Riders must be 36″ tall (height of the average 4-year-old) to ride with adults, and 48″ tall (height of the average 8-year-old) to ride alone. 

The opening weekend of the 2024 season is March 23rd and 24th. The park will be open during weekends and holidays throughout the spring. For more details, visit https://adventureland.us/.

About Adventureland

Adventureland was founded in 1962 as a local place to have fun and relax as a family. Over 62 years later, the park is now a destination amusement park, home to classic rides including our iconic Ferris Wheel and Carousel and new thrills like the internationally-celebrated FireBall Coaster, and the custom designed spinning roller coaster, Turbulence. With rides, games, and attractions for children and adults of all ages, Adventureland is a favorite for the young and young at heart. 

As a major area tourist attraction, Adventureland has a positive impact on the local and state economy, through employment and patronage to other local companies. Annually, our park hires over 650 part-time employees, mostly high school students and college students. For many of our employees—this is their first job. We train them in a variety of areas (cash handling, Safety, Guest Relations) preparing them with the basic skills they will carry into their own careers. For more information visit https://adventureland.us/                  

About Catholic Health 

Catholic Health is an integrated system encompassing some of the region’s finest health and human services agencies. The health system has approximately 17,000 employees, six acute care hospitals, three nursing homes, a home health service, hospice and a network of physician practices. Under the sponsorship of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, Catholic Health serves hundreds of thousands of Long Islanders each year, providing care that extends from the beginning of life to helping people live their final years in comfort, grace and dignity.

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Patricia Alban, RN was honored with an Extraordinary Nurse Educator DAISY Award®. Pictured are CNO/Vice President for Nursing Tara Matz, RN; Alban; Maureen Altieri, RN, Magnet program director; and Executive Director Kevin McGeachy. Photo from Mather Hospital
Erin Dawson, RN was recognized for the care and kindness she showed to a patient. Photo from Mather Hospital
Patricia Alban, RN was honored with an Extraordinary Nurse Educator DAISY Award®. Pictured are CNO/Vice President for Nursing Tara Matz, RN; Alban; Maureen Altieri, RN, Magnet program director; and Executive Director Kevin McGeachy. Photo from Mather Hospital

Patricia Alban, RN and Erin Dawson, RN were recently honored by Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson as the recipients of the Extraordinary Nurse Educator DAISY Award®.

The DAISY Award® is a special honor given to extraordinary nurses for the compassionate contributions they make every day going above and beyond expectations in science and sensitivity.

Patricia Alban, RN has been a key leader in Clinical Professional Development at Mather as the site coordinator for the Nurse Residency Program. She is also instrumental in her role as a clinical educator for 3 East Telemetry, coverage for the Emergency Department and assisting Clinical Professional Development in educational programs. She is an instructor for the Community Training Center for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Basic Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support,  has volunteered her time to teach hands-only CPR in the community, and has maintained three professional nursing certifications.

The nomination for her read in part, “Pat promotes resilience and quality, patient and staff safety, and maintains management of human and fiscal resources, while always supporting team members through challenges with compassion and humanity.”

Ms. Alban also demonstrates acts of caring and compassion every day to the patients on the 3 East patient unit and throughout the organization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she readily changed her shift to meet the needs of the organization and supported the clinical staff on the night shift. She has twice been nominated as Nurse Educator of the Year. Last year, she participated in the writing of six abstracts for submission to national conferences. As the Site Coordinator for the Nurse Residency Program, she holds monthly meetings with the new graduates to continue to develop their professional practice, while also encouraging their peer development and relationship building. She is a team builder.

She is a primary instructor for Mather Hospital’s Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program. Her excellent clinical and communication skills help to ensure the students meet program goals and achieve success, not only at the end of the program, but also after they begin their new roles.   

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Erin Dawson, RN was recognized for the care and kindness she showed to a patient. Photo from Mather Hospital

Recognized for the care and kindness she showed to a patient on her unit, Erin Dawson, RN, of 2 South is also Mather Hospital’s DAISY Award® winner.

Erin was nominated by a family member of a cancer patient who was struck by her dedication and compassion and called her “gentle, thoughtful, and thorough.”

“She explains everything she is doing and why. She has a calm bedside manner and has truly been so very kind to my mother and family during this scary time. My mom had not eaten properly in weeks and Erin went out of her way in the middle of the night to hunt down tomato soup. She would also close doors to decrease noise and avoided using lights when she could, so my mom was even a little more
comfortable. She checked on my mom over and over and was patient while doing so; always checking to
see whether she needed ice chips or nausea meds. Every interaction was approached with respect and
sincerity.”

“My mom has been through so much pain and discomfort during this time and Erin truly treated her with compassion. I am blessed to have had her watching over my mom during this difficult time.”

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award® was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died of complications from an autoimmune disease at the age of 33. During Pat’s hospitalization, his family was awestruck by the care and compassion his nurses provided for him and everyone in his family.

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Jim Lennon Photographer175-H2 Commerce Drive, Hauppauge N.Y. 11788631-617-5872 . www.jimlennon.com

Award places Mather Hospital among top 15% in nation for patient experience

Mather Hospital of Port Jefferson recently announced that it has been recognized as a 2024 Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ recipient by Healthgrades, the leading resource consumers use to find a hospital or doctor. Mather has received this award for four consecutive years (2021-2024). This achievement, along with Mather’s designation by Healthgrades as an America’s 250 Best  Hospital for 2023 and 2024 and a Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ recipient for the ninth straight year (2016-2024) year demonstrates Mather’s commitment to providing an exceptional care experience for patients and their loved ones.  

“Receiving this award from Healthgrades once again is immensely gratifying as it underscores the unparalleled quality of care provided at Mather, as attested by our patients’ feedback,” said Executive Director Kevin McGeachy. “It stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and extraordinary efforts of not only our clinical staff but every single member of the Mather team who interacts with patients and their families.”

To identify the top hospitals for patient experience, Healthgrades applies a scoring methodology to ten patient experience measures using Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey data submitted by the hospital’s own patients. Survey questions focus on patients’ perceptions of their hospital care, from cleanliness and noise levels to medication explanations and staff responsiveness. The measures also include whether a patient would recommend the hospital to friends or family and their overall rating of the hospital. 

For this annual analysis, Healthgrades evaluated more than 2,500 hospitals that submitted at least 100 patient experience surveys to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), covering admissions from January 2022 to December 2022. Of those hospitals evaluated, Mather Hospital outperformed its peers based on feedback from their own patients–to achieve this award. 

“We commend Mather Hospital for going above and beyond to provide a best-in-class care experience for patients during their hospital stay,” said Brad Bowman, MD, chief medical officer and head of data sciences at Healthgrades. “Mather’s dedication to superior patient care is particularly impressive given recent declines in patient satisfaction scores across the country. We look forward to their continued leadership and commitment to ensuring the health and wellness of all patients.” 

Consumers can visit healthgrades.com to learn more about how Healthgrades measures hospital quality and access the complete Outstanding Patient Experience Award Methodology. A patient-friendly overview of our methodology is also available here.  

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