CLOSE
Arts & Entertainment

by -
0 664
1 of 4
This image combines 678 separate images taken by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Combining many images in this way clearly reveals otherwise faint or invisible details, such as the clouds of gas and dust that comprise the Trifid nebula (top) and the Lagoon nebula, which are several thousand light-years away from Earth. Credit: NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile Photo credit: RubinObs/NOIRLab/SLAC/NSF/DOE/AURA/A. Pizarro D
Rubin Observatory sits prominently atop Cerro Pachón against the backdrop of the full moon in this photo from March 24, 2024. The photo was taken around 7:55pm in the vicinity of Andacollo, Chile (about 25km from Rubin) after months of planning and patience. Photo credit: M.Hernández/H.Stockebrand
Ten areas in the sky were selected as “deep fields” that the Dark Energy Camera imaged several times during the survey, providing a glimpse of distant galaxies and helping determine their 3D distribution in the cosmos. The image is teeming with galaxies — in fact, nearly every single object in this image is a galaxy. Some exceptions include a couple of dozen asteroids as well as a few handfuls of foreground stars in our own Milky Way. Photo credit: Dark Energy Survey/DOE/FNAL/DECam/CTIO/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA

By Daniel Dunaief

Monday, June 23, marked the beginning of a new and exciting frontier. Using the largest digital camera ever built for astronomy, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory shared its first images after a journey from conception to reality that lasted over two decades.

Located in the Cerro Pachón mountaintop in Chile because the area is dry, high and dark, the telescope and camera started its 10-year mission to share images of the sky.

Viewers at over 350 watch parties in the United States and around the world awaited these pictures, including with gatherings at Stony Brook University and Brookhaven National Laboratory.

The state-of-the-art camera did not disappoint.

The Rubin Observatory, which can take images with a field of view of the sky that are the equivalent of 40 moons, discovered 2,400 asteroids that no one has ever seen before. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. By the time the Observatory has collected all the data the public can view, the camera is expected to find over five million asteroids.

“Most of the asteroids are too faint to have been found” with previous technology, said Paul O’Connor, senior physicist at Brookhaven National Laboratory who has been working on the camera since 2002.

Simon Birrer, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Stony Brook University, attended a watch event at the university with some 50 to 60 other excited members of the college community.

“Knowing that the instrument is capable and what it was promised to do and seeing it all coming together, sharing the excitement with so many other people is very exciting,” said Birrer.

By looking at the night sky over the course of just a few days, the observatory was able to offer a time lapse view of the movement of these asteroids.

“You can look and see the trail of thousands of things that are completely new,” said Birrer.

Indeed, in addition to seeing asteroids and other objects both near and far, the Rubin Observatory can study dark matter and dark energy, map the Milky Way, and observe transient events.

“We’re entering a golden age of American science,” Harriet Kung, acting director of the DOE’s Office of Science, said in a statement. “NSF-DOE Rubin Observatory reflects what’s possible when the federal government backs world-class engineers and scientists with the tools to lead.”

The first images generated considerable excitement in the scientific community and on campuses around the world.

“It’s a new frontier for sure,” said O’Connor. “We’ve been working on this project for all these years. It was easy to get students interested.”

Anja von der Linden, Associate Professor in Physics and Astronomy at Stony Brook and a member of the LSST Dark Energy Science Collaboration since its inception in 2012, viewed the images from Germany, where she is visiting her parents on vacation with her young daughter.

She works on clusters of galaxies and was delighted to see the Virgo cluster online.

“The image is so large and [viewers] can also see much more distant galaxies,” said von der Linden. Viewers are able to scroll around and zoom in and out to see details in these “beautiful images.”

Von der Linden echoed the sentiment from one of the officials who shared the first images, suggesting that the data and information from the observatory are available for astronomers and scientists, but also for the public, helping them explore the night sky.

“It’s quite remarkable,” she said. “I look forward to seeing how the public engages.”

The Rubin Observatory will see “everything that changes, explodes, and moves,” said von der Linden.

A little bit of pride

In addition to scientists like O’Connor and Anže Slosar, group leader of the Cosmology & Astrophysics Group, BNL recruited close to two dozen interns to help with the work.

“There’s a lot of inherent curiosity about the cosmos,” O’Connor said. “When people hear that they could participate in doing research that could lead to lead to a better understanding of it, we had to turn interns away.”

O’Connor worked with the charge-coupled device modules, which are the digital film of the camera. The Rubin Observatory, with its 3.2 gigapixel focal plane, relies on 189 custom-designed CCD sensors to achieve its resolution.

“I feel a little bit of pride,” said O’Connor, who didn’t expect to be working on astronomical instruments when he came to BNL. “I was a tiny, little part of a giant team that’s worked so long. When you see the final project, it’s a good feeling.”

Seeing the invisible

At the same time that the Rubin Observatory can find asteroids that had previously gone undetected, it can also help detect dark energy and dark matter.

Only five percent of the universe comes from visible matter, with about 70 percent coming from dark energy and 25 percent coming from dark matter.

Dark energy describes why the universe continues to expand after the Big Bang, rather than slowing down, the way a ball thrown into the air does before it falls, von der Linden explained. Researchers study dark matter, meanwhile, by observing the way light from distant galaxies bends when it travels towards Earth, as the gravitational force of the matter affects it on its path.

Von der Linden said she has already started using some of the commissioning data to test Rubin’s capabilities to do weak gravitational lensing. Weak gravitational lensing involves slight shifts in images caused by the gravitational influence of other matter that require many galaxies to detect.

“The work we’re doing now is very much a test case, which we will then take and apply to a much larger data set,” she said.

Inspiring future scientists

The images and the data, which the US, the UK and France will process, has the potential not only to answer scientific questions, but also to encourage and inspire future researchers.

The Rubin Observatory has a “very comprehensive education and public outreach component,” von der Linden said. “From the beginning, it has been built with the intention that the public is suppose to interact with the data and be part of the scientific story.”

If teachers use this in the classroom to show students the beautiful and intriguing night sky, “I would think this will lead some students to consider pursuing” careers in these sciences. “I hope that we’re going to get more junior scientists who will be part of Rubin.”

To see images from the observatory, visit https://rubinobservatory.org.

by -
0 2966
Sprinkle candles for sale from Pink Zebra. Photo by Heidi Sutton

By Heidi Sutton

Want to be part of the action at this year’s fairs and festivals? Do you have unique merchandise, crafts, yard sale items or food and beverages to sell? Here are a list of vendors wanted for upcoming community events on the North Shore. The list will be updated weekly.

◆ St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 270 Main Street, Northport seeks vendors for its Summer Craft Fair on July 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 631-261-0804 to obtain a registration form. 

◆ The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River is acceptiong local hand crafted vendors for its Craft Fair Weekends on July 12 & 13, August 2 & 3, September 6 & 7, October 4 & 5 and November 1 & 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 10′ by 10′ spaces for one day is $75 and $100 for both days. Call 631-846-2372 or visit eastwindlongisland.com.

◆ Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook is looking for vendors to participate in an outdoor Summer Craft Fair on July 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Online application can be found at www.sachemlibrary.org. 631-588-5024.

◆ The Spirit of Huntington, 2 Melville Road, Huntington Station seeks vendors for its annual Spirit of Summer Art Festival on July 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain date is July 27. Visit www.spiritofhuntington.com for an application or call 631-470-9620.

◆ Northport Arts Coalition is accepting applications for craft artists for its annual Art in the Park event at Northport Village Park on Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 10′ by 10′ space for $100, $80 NAC members. Rain date is Aug. 17. Deadline to apply is July 15. www.northportarts.org.

◆ Village of Lake Grove seeks arts & crafts, food and community vendors for its annual Summer Fest on Aug. 17 at the Gazebo and Memorial Park, 980 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For an application, visit www.lakegroveny.gov or call 631-585-2000.

◆ The Port Jefferson Lions Club will hold their 4th annual Car Show at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville on Sept. 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Interested vendors can call 631-258-6156.

◆ Messiah Lutheran Church, 465 Pond Path, East Setauket is seeking craft vendors and food trucks for their Spooktacular Trunk or Treat & Vendor Fair fair which will be held Oct. 25 from noon to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Spots are $35. Vendor and food truck forms can be found at www.messiahny.org

Send your vendors wanted listings to [email protected].

by -
0 546
1 of 9
'Morning Glory', oil, by Kusuma Bheemineni
'Herbalism', pyrography on wood, by Lauren Prochera
'Standing Alone', pen ink,zentangle, by Maureen Ginipro
'Flowering Echinacea & Other Herbs', watercolor, by Ellen Ferrigno
'Flowers in Front of the Fountain', oil, by Hayley Brennan
'Number 51', photography, by James Kelson
'White Roses', oil, by Patricia Lind
'Roadside Bouquet', colored pencil and pastel, by Patricia Luppino
'Bouquet 2', gouache on wood panel, by Jessica Rybak

Whether gifted, grown in a garden, or admired in nature, flowers delight us with their natural beauty. In a floral tribute, the Smithtown Township Arts Council will present The Language of Flowers, a juried exhibit at Mills Pond Gallery in St. James from June 28 to July 25. 

The prospectus called for artists to “unleash their creativity and share their artistic interpretations of flowers … art that captures the spirit of blossoms or conveys personal emotions or narratives, or simply captures the captivating beauty of flowers.” The response was overwhelming.

“Using oil, acrylic, alcohol ink, colored pencil, dye-sublimation photographic print, fused glass, gouache, graphite, ink, mixed media, oil, pastel, pen & ink, photography, pyrography and watercolor, 84 artists  have found astonishing ways to portray the delicacy of flowers whether represented in realism, impressionism or abstraction,” said Allison Cruz, Executive Director of the Smithtown Township Arts Council and Mills Pond Gallery. 

“No matter the style, we are sure gallery visitors will enjoy this bouquet of original works,” she added.

Exhibiting artists include Ross Barbera, Shain Bard, Ron Becker, Mireille Belajonas, Kusuma Bheemineni, Matt Bodkin, Hayley Brennan, Joyce Bressler, Kevin Casey, Carol Ceraso, Tobi Cohen, Bernice Corbin, Jane Corrarino, Denise Cousins, JoAnn Dumas, Paul Edelson, Ellen Ferrigno, Elizabeth Fusco, Arlene Gernon, Maureen Ginipro, Theresa Graff, Alexandra Guma, Linda Hartman, Scott Hartman, Karen Jakubowski, Sally Anne Keller, James Kelson, Kathee Shaff Kelson, Angelica Kempa, Samantha Kenny, Megan Kenny, Lynn Kinsella, Julianna Kirk, Elizabeth Kisseleff, Lynn Larrison, Peter Leeds, Syndee Levy, Patricia Lind-Gonzalez, Patricia Luppino, Jackie Mallon, Diane Maniscalco, Adriena Masi, Liz Jorg Masi, Kathleen McArdle, Bonnie McLoughlin Stiegler, Frederic Mendelsohn, Avrel Menkes, Felecia Montfort, Gail Neuman, Loretta Oberheim, Josephine Parlagreco, Sharon Pearsall, Eva Pere, Sean Pollock, Lauren Prochera, Bernice Rausch, Catherine Rezin, Sandra Riddle, Khrystyne Robillard-Smith, Robert Roehrig, Jessica Rybak, Lori Scarlatos, Lisa Scrima-Castelli, Hillary Serota Needle, Stephen Shannon, Mike Stanko, Maddy Stare, Judy Stone, Betty Ann Tedeschi, Ashley Thorbjornsen, Susan Toplitz, Robert Tuska, Diane Van Velsor, Joseph Weinreb, Patty Yantz, Steven Zaluski, Theodora Zavala and Tianzhou Zhao.

The public is invited to an opening reception on Saturday, June 28 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to meet the exhibiting artists and enjoy the beautiful art. 

The Mills Pond Gallery is located at 660 Route 25A in St. James. Regular gallery hours are Wednesdays to  Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Admission to the gallery is always free. For more information or directions, call 631-862-6575, or visit www.millspondgallery.org.

by -
0 2489
A scene from 'Elio.' Image courtesy of Disney/Pixar

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

In the cinematic landscape, Pixar Studios created many of the most memorable animated features. These include Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Cars, and Inside Out, along with their extensive line of sequels. Founded in 1979, Pixar became a cultural juggernaut of fiscal and critical success, in many ways redefining expectations in family entertainment.

In Elio, orphaned Elio Solis lives with his Aunt Olga, an Air Force major. Olga gave up her aspirations to be an astronaut to raise the lonely boy. One day, Elio sneaks into a closed exhibit of the Voyager 1 NASA space probe. The possibility of life on other planets fascinates the boy. Each night, he sprawls on the beach, staring up into the stars, hoping to be abducted by aliens.

A scene from ‘Elio.’ Image courtesy of Disney/Pixar

Meanwhile, conspiracy theorist Gunther Melmac claims there is evidence of extra-terrestrials responding to the Voyager 1, transmitting a message to Earth. Elio uses Melmac’s invention to send a message into space. Eventually, Elio is transported into a spaceship where aliens of the Communiverse mistake him for the Earth’s leader and ambassador. Elio becomes embroiled in their negotiations with a warlord, Lord Grigon, who threatens a takeover of the Communiverse. Through various machinations, including the introduction of cloning, among other science fiction devices, Elio befriends Grigon’s son, the gentle Glordon, who does not want to become part of his father’s violent coalition. 

The story follows a predictable path. The film introduces elements of bullying on Earth and in the far reaches of the galaxy. After an altercation, Elio receives an eye wound, forcing him to wear a patch. Elio has moments of introspection, questioning whether the difficulty is in the world or within himself. “I thought Earth was the problem, but what if it’s me?” 

The film swings at big concepts and grand scope: The statement “Are we alone?” plays on two levels. But, for all this reflection, the film feels shallow, never fully realizing its ambitions. Children’s films have effectively tackled challenging issues. Up, Coco, and both Inside Out films, not to mention the majority of the Toy Story universe, manage to address large topics with integrity and resonance. It’s not that Elio doesn’t try. It’s just that it never quite reaches the targeted feelings.

Like many animated features, this might be a case of too many cooks. Three directors (Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, and Adrian Molina) worked from a script by three screenwriters (Julia Cho, Mark Hammer, and Mike Jones). Elio possesses an excess of ideas, but nothing is quite finished. Too many on-the-nose statements—“A father always knows” and “I may not always understand you, but I love you”—are presented but not necessarily earned. 

The voice talent does fine with the material. Yonas Kibreab and Zoe Saldaña, as Elio and Olga, respectively, are real and nuanced. Remy Edgerly is sweet as Glordon, with Brad Garrett’s gravelly intonations suitable for the villainous Grigon. Jameela Jamil, Shirley Henderson, Matthias Schweighöfer, Brandon Moon, and Naomi Watanabe bring warmth and humor to the assortment of alien ambassadors. Brendan Hunt captures Melmac’s manic energy.

Elio is populated with a range of creatures that seem Happy-Meal-precious, but they are truly fun and wholly benign. The film’s strength lies in the extraordinary production design (Harley Jessup) in tandem with the visual effects (supervised by Claudia Chung-Sani), which have created the joyous Communiverse, a striking and vibrant rainbow pulsing with life. Sadly, these surrounding elements contain more drive than the story itself, resulting in a case of style over substance. 

The film’s climax shamelessly borrows shades of E.T. Needless to say, everything works out for everyone. Elio probably seemed good, if not great, on paper. And, in truth, the outlines, structure, and themes of a more satisfying film are there. But, in the end, Elio is an interstellar movie that remains earthbound.

Rated PG, the film is now playing in local theaters.

by -
0 422
Catch a screening of 'Moana 2' at Heritage Park in Mt. Sinai on June 27 at dusk.

PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature for children ages 2 to 4 on June 27 at 9:30 a.m. Little ones will learn about nature through hands on interaction, music, crafts, stories, play and more. $20 per child per class. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Aquarium Celebration

In honor of National Zoo and Aquarium Month, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will hold an Aquarium Celebration on June 28 with Animal Encounters at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; a Hatchery Tour at 11 a.m.; Turtle Feed & Talk at noon, Longnose Gar Feeding Demo at 2 p.m. and crafts all day. Included with admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Growing Up Wild

Town of Brookhaven offers a nature program at Cedar Beach Nature Center, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mt. Sinai on June 28 at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m.  Children ages 3 to 6 with a parent/caregiver are invited to explore nature with story time, live animals and an activity. Free but registration required by emailing [email protected].

Mommy, Me & Monet

Celebrate St. James hosts a Mommy, Me & Monet: Garden Tees and Tiny Masterpieces  art class at the St. James Cultural Center, 176 2nd St., St. James on June 28 from 10 a.m. to noon. Led by artist Rhoda Angelier, children ages 4 to 6 will paint side by side with a parent/caregiver to make a garden designed one of a kind t-shirt masterpiece. $40 per child. To register, visit celebratestjames.org. 

BNL Family Fun

Explore Brookhaven National Lab, Upton at a Family Fun Open House Summer Sunday on June 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy interactive exhibits, STEM Live! shows, demonstrations, lectures, tours and meet Spot, the robot dog. Free. Guests 18 and older must bring REAL ID-compliant identification. bnl.gov/sundays/2025/

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

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

FILM

‘Happy Feet’

As part of its Cinema for Kids series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen Happy Feet on June 29 at noon. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org. 

‘Moana 2’

Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mount Sinai kicks off its Movies in the Moonlight series with a screening of Moana 2 on June 27 at dusk. Free. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Presented by the North Shore Youth Council and Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon. 631-403-4846

THEATER

‘The Fantasmix’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its children’s theater with The Fantasmix: A Superhero Journey Begins! from July 11 to July 26 with a sensory friendly performance on July 13 at 11 a.m. Come help the world’s newest superheroes Lightning and Bolt as they embark on an epic journey to save our planet — and all its water! The electrifying brother-and-sister duo discovers that together, they have what it takes to save the world. Tickets are $15. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘The Little Mermaid Jr’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. from July 12 to Aug. 17. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home behind and live in the world above. But first, she’ll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking. Tickets are $26.50. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Madagascar: A Musical Adventure’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Madagascar: A Musical Adventure from July 19 to Aug. 24. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime.  Follow all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

by -
0 766
SUMMER THURSDAY AT THE LIM Eastline Theater presents an outdoor performance of Jane Austen’s ‘Emma’ at the Long Island Museum on June 26. Photo from LIM
Thursday June 26

Summer Thursday at the LIM

The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook kicks off their Summer Thursdays series with an outdoor performance of Jane Austen’s Emma by the EastLine Theater at 5:30 p.m. Bring a picnic, seating and celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th year! Free. www.longislandmuseum.org.

St. Anthony’s Family Festival

Fr. Thomas Judge Knights of Columbus celebrates its 32nd annual St. Anthony’s Family Feast and Festival  at Trinity Regional School, 1025 Fifth Ave., East Northport tonight, June 27 from 6 to 11 p.m. and June 28 from 3 to 11 p.m. Featuring rides, games, food, craft beer, live entertainment by Cirque Cyber, live music nightly. Fireworks on June 28. Free admission, pay-one-price rides or individual rides. 631-262-1891

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook will host a Native American Drumming session from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

SPIRITUS Festival

The SPIRITUS Chamber Festival, titled “Tales of Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stony Brook, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket today at 7 p.m.; the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on June 28 at 2 p.m.; and Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket on June 29 at 7:30 p.m. All concerts will be followed by a reception. Tickets range from $15 to $35 at www.spiritusfestival.org.

Friday June 27

St. Anthony’s Family Festival

See June 26 listing.

Audubon Lecture

Four Harbors Audubon Society invites the community to a free lecture titled Birder by Day, Moth-er By Night: Discovering the Nocturnal Ecosystem with David LaMagna at Avalon Barn, 60 Shep Jones Lane, St. James at 8 p.m. A short presentation will be followed by observing moths and other creatures that show up at bait stations. Rain date is June 28. Registration required by emailing [email protected].

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages 16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door, cash only. 631-928-9100

Saturday June 28

St. Anthony’s Family Festival

See June 26 listing.

SPIRITUS Festival

See June 26 listing.

Farmingdale Craft & Gift Fair

Farmingdale will host a Craft & Gift Fair featuring over 65 vendors selling arts, crafts, gifts, jewelry and food along Main Street and the Village Green today and June 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 516-442-6000

Craft and Vendor Fair

Stepping Stone Support, a nonprofit dedicated to helping local families affected by cancer, will hold a Craft and Vendor Fair fundraiser at A1 Roofing, 16 Platinum Ct., Medford from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring artisan crafts, vendor tables, food trucks, face painting and large Chinese auction. Rain date is June 29. www.steppingstonesupport.org.

Lavender Festival

Hoshyla Farms, 132 Ryerson Ave., Manorville presents its annual Lavender Festival today from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and June 29 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with artisan vendors, pick your own lavender, food trucks, wine and beer, live music, children’s activities and more. $5 admission, free for ages 12 and under. 631-975-2434

Farmers Artisan Marketplace

Farmingville Residents Association will present a Farmers Artisan and Friends Marketplace at Triangle Park, corner of Horseblock Road and Woodycrest Drive, Farmingville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring local produce, handmade and homemade items, flea market finds, live music and food from over 40 vendors. 631-260-7411

Sherwood-Jayne House Tours

Sherwood-Jayne Farm House (c. 1730), 55 Old Post Road, Setauket will be open for tours at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., courtesy of Preservation Long Island. This guided tour explores the first and second floors of the house. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 ages 10 to 18, free for children ages 9 and under. To reserve your spot, visit www.preservationlongisland.org/tours/.

Vintage European Car Show

Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook hosts the 20th annual Vintage European Sports Car & Motorcycle Display on the front lawn from noon to 4 p.m. with live music by The Barking Men and refreshments. Rain date is June 29. Free for spectators. 631-751-1381

Japanese Car Show – This event has been moved to the rain date of June 29.

Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St.. Stony Brook presents a Japanese Car Show from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Curated by Nelson Medina, the event will feature a dazzling array of classic and contemporary Japanese cars, showcasing the unique designs, performance, and engineering that define Japanese automotive excellence. Free. Rain date is June 29. 631-751-7707

Heavy Metal/Rock Music Festival

Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce present Off the Rails, a free Heavy Metal and Rock Music Festival featuring 11 local bands at the Chamber Train Car Park, corner of Route 112 and Route 347, Port Jefferson Station starting at noon. Bring seating. www.pjschamber.com

Hassles Induction at LIMEHOF

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), 97 Main St., Stony Brook will be inducting Long Island’s own 1960s era seminal rock-soul group, The Hassles — best known as Billy Joel’s first major record label band — including acclaimed drummer-turned-video-director Jon Small. A special celebration event will be held at 8 p.m. The event is open to the public with a special event ticket purchase of $50 (online purchase includes $3.50 fee) and includes access to the LIMEHOF’s current exhibit, Billy Joel My Life: A Piano Man’s Journey which features a section about the Hassles. To purchase tickets, visit www.limusichalloffame.org. 631-689-5888.

Summer Kick-Off Party

Town of Huntington invites the community to a summer events kick-off party with Yellow Brick Joel: The Tribute Concert at Heckscher Park’s Chapin Rainbow Stage, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington at 7 p.m. Bring seating. 631-351-3000

Pink Floyd Tribute

Us and Floyd return to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Reichert Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport  for a dazzling live performances – in sync with a stunning Pink Floyd laser light show, The Wall, at 9 p.m. Advance tickets online are $35 adults, $30  ages 15 and under and members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. At the door $40 adults, ages 15 and under and members $30.

Sunday June 29

SPIRITUS Festival

See June 26 listing.

Farmingdale Craft & Gift Fair

See June 28 listing.

Lavender Festival

See June 28 listing.

Car Show at Bald Hill

Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater at Bald Hill, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville, hosts a Car Show and Swap Meet by Long Island Cars from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Street rods, classics, muscle cars, antiques, exotics, imports and collectible cars on display with vendors selling parts and accessories, food and entertainment. Admission is $10, under 12 years are free. 631-567-5898, www.LongIslandCars.com

CSHL Walking Tour

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

Tribute to Billy Joel

Pat Farrell and the Cold Spring Harbor Band present a Billy Joel tribute concert at Fireman’s Park, 15 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free. Bring seating.

Benner’s Farm Concert

The Good Earth Sound Stage at Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket welcomes Linda Sussman and Emily-Sue Sloan for a concert at 4 p.m. Please bring seating for this outdoor event. $15 donation at the door. 631-689-8172

The Dedications in Concert

Celebrate St. James kicks off their summer concert series at Celebrate Park, 369 Lake Ave., St. James with The Dedications (Classic 50s, 60s and 70s Rock & Roll) at 7 p.m. Bring seating. 631-984-0201

Monday June 30

Country Line Dancing

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

Tuesday July 1

Summer SWAP Concert

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will host a series of “Summer Stage With a Purpose” (Summer SWAP) concerts on its front lawn from 6 to 8 p.m. with the Kevin Blanca Big Band. Guests may purchase refreshments in the Basie Garden beside the venue. Sponsored by Stony Brook University, Stony Brook Medicine and community businesses. Free. Bring seating. 631-751-1895, www.thejazzloft.org

Smithtown Community Band

The Smithtown Historical Society hosts the 39th annual Smithtown Community Band concert series, Music from Around the World, on the grounds of the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown at 7:30 p.m. Bring seating. 631-265-6768

Wednesday July 2

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

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

Sunset Concerts

Port Jefferson Arts Council kicks off their  Sunset Concert series on the Jill Russell Stage at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson from 6:30 to 8 p.m. with Teddy Kumpel and Nome Sane? Bring seating. In the case of rain, the event will be moved inside the Port Jefferson Village Center. 631-473-5220, www.gpjac.org

One Step Ahead in Concert

PJS/Terrvyille Chamber of Commerce kicks off their Summer Concert Wednesdays at the Chamber Train Car Park, 1 Rose Ave., Port Jefferson Station with One Step Ahead from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. along with food, ice cream, local businesses and more. Bring seating. www.pjstchamber.com

Huntington Summer Arts Festival

The 60th annual Huntington Summer Arts Festival kicks off tonight at Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington at 8 p.m. with a performance by The Huntington Community Band and July 3 at 8 p.m. with a production of HMS Pinafore. The 8-week festival will feature over 40 live performances including dance, theater and music from Wednesdays to Sundays through Aug. 24. Bring seating. Free. Visit www.huntingtonarts.org for full schedule.

Thursday July 3

Huntington Summer Arts Festival

See July 2 listing.

Northport Community Band Concert

The Northport Community Band will host concerts at the Robert W. Krueger Bandshell in Northport Village Park on July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24 and July 31 at 8 p.m. Rain location is Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport. www.ncb59.org

Film

‘September 5’

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a screening of September 5 starring Peter Sarsgaard, John Magaro, and Leonie Benesch on June 30 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org to reserve your seat. 

Theater

‘South Pacific’

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

‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’

The Carriage House Players at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in  Centerport continues their 36th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Midsummer Night’s Dream from June 1 to June 29. Performances are held on the Vanderbilt mansion courtyard stage on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children under age 12. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. 516-557-1207

‘H.M.S. Pinafore’

The classic comic opera H.M.S. Pinafore heads to Star Playhouse at Suffolk Y/JCCC, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack on June 29 at 3 p.m., courtesy of  the Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island. The comical plot centers on the love story of Josephine, the Captain’s heart-driven daughter, who is torn between devotion and duty. Admission is $35 for adults at the door (seniors/students $30), $30 for adults in advance (seniors/students $25).  For further information, call 516-619-7415 or visit https://gaslocoli.org/tickets. See more on page B14.

‘Footloose The Musical’

Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Footloose The Musical from July 10 to Aug. 24. When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher. Based on the hit 1984 movie, the musical contains all of the hit songs including “Let’s Hear It For The Boy,” “Almost Paradise,” “Holding Out For A Hero,” and of course “Footloose!” For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Othello’

The Carriage House Players at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in  Centerport continues their 36th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Othello from July 11 to Aug. 3. Performances are held on the Vanderbilt mansion courtyard stage on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children under age 12. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. 516-557-1207

‘Much Ado About Nothing’

The Minstrel Players present William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing at Trinity Episcopal Church, Houghton Hall, 130 main St., Northport on July 19 and July 26 at 8 p.m. and July 20 and July 27 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, all 516-361-7232 or visit www.theminstrelplayersinc.org.

Class Reunions

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

Farmers Markets

Huntington

Elm Street parking lot at 228 Main St., Huntington on Sundays from June 1 through Nov. 23 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 631-944-2661

Lake Grove

Southwestern quadrant of Smith Haven Mall parking lot along Middle Country Road year-round on Saturdays (pickles, honey) and full market with vendors on Sundays. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days. 516-444-1280

Northport

Cow Harbor Park parking lot, at the corner of Main Street and Woodbine Ave. in Northport on Saturdays from June 7 through Nov. 22 (except Sept. 20) from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 631-662-7244

Port Jefferson 

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

St. James

St. James Lutheran Church, 230 2nd Ave., St. James hosts a farmers market in its parking lot every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May 31 through October 25. 631-403-7711

Setauket

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

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

by -
0 495
METRO photo
While sufficient capacity is expected to be available, reducing consumption can extend the life of equipment operating in prolonged heat
As the area enters its fourth day of extreme heat, PSEG Long Island is urging customers to cut back on nonessential electricity use to help ease the stress on electrical equipment in their neighborhoods.
 
PSEG Long Island expects to have the electrical capacity required to meet customer demand during this heatwave, according to a press release.
 
While temperatures are not expected to reach Tuesday’s near-record levels, a heat advisory is in place through this evening, with the heat index forecast to range between 98 and 102 degrees. The heat index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.
 
“Four consecutive days of extreme heat puts a great deal of physical strain on lines, transformers and other common pieces of equipment that make up our energy grid and have been handling peak levels of demand,” said Michael Sullivan, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Electric Operations. “While we expect to have sufficient electrical capacity to meet the demand, we urge customers to reduce their energy usage to help protect the grid and limit the number of scattered, heat-related outages that occur today.”
 
PSEG Long Island is also planning to activate the voluntary Smart Savers thermostat program to reduce loading on the system by automatically adjusting the thermostats of residential customers who have chosen to participate. Activating the program will also help save money next year by reducing the amount of required electrical capacity purchased in advance.
On Wednesday, June 25, at 3:30 PM, which is 30 minutes prior to the activation, enrolled customers’ homes will be pre-cooled by 3 degrees for 30 minutes, then their thermostats will be raised by 4 degrees from 4-7 PM. In exchange, these customers receive a discount on their electric bills.
 
More than 40,000 customers have enrolled in the program. To learn more and join the program, customers can visit: enrollmythermostat.com/faqs/pseg-long-island-faq/
PSEG Long Island also plans to activate its Commercial System Relief/Distribution Load Relief programs to reduce loading on the system and create future savings for customers. Some 840 commercial customers enrolled in this voluntary program will be asked to provide their contracted load relief today by either switching to generators or shutting off equipment or air conditioning.
 
Conserve energy and be safe
PSEG Long Island urges customers to take these important energy conservation measures to reduce peak demand on the system.
  • Turn off all nonessential electronics and appliances.
  • Set home thermostats or air conditioner units to 78 degrees.
  • Run major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and pool pumps, in the morning or late evening to avoid the peak demand hours of 2 PM to 8 PM.
  • Set refrigerators and freezers at most-efficient temperatures.
  • Do not cool an empty house. Set your thermostat higher when you are away, or use a smart thermostat to control the temperature in your home.
  • Commercial and residential customers may sign up for the Peak Load Rewards program. Visit psegliny.com/saveenergyandmoney/GreenEnergy/PeakLoad for more details.
  • Close blinds and window coverings facing the sun to keep out the sun’s heat.
  • Ceiling fans cool fast and cost less than air conditioning. (In hot weather, set ceiling fans to spin quickly, counterclockwise to push air downward.)
  • Seal holes and cracks around doors and windows with caulk or weather-stripping.
  • Replace old appliances with new energy efficient ENERGY STAR® appliances.
  • Replace air filters monthly. Dirty filters make your air conditioner work harder.
  • Close blinds and draperies on sun-facing windows to keep out the sun’s heat.
  • Ceiling fans cool fast and cost less than air conditioning. (In hot weather, set your ceiling fan to spin quickly, counterclockwise to push air downward toward the floor.)
  • Charge electric vehicles overnight.
For more tips on safety during extreme weather, including information about local heating and cooling centers, please visit psegliny.com/SafetyAndReliability/stormsafety/ExtremeWeather.
Prepared for potential outages:
PSEG Long Island has personnel available around the clock to address potential outages during this heatwave safely and as quickly as possible.
 
Stay connected:
  • Report an outage and receive status updates by texting OUT to PSEGLI (773454). You can also report your outage through our app or our website at psegliny.com/outages. 
  • To report an outage or downed wire, you can also call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour Electric Service number at 800-490-0075.
  • Follow PSEG Long Island on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to report an outage and for updates before, during and after the storm.
  • Visit PSEG Long Island’s MyPower map for the latest in outage info, restoration times and crew locations across Long Island and the Rockaways at mypowermap.psegliny.com/.

 

by -
0 566
From left, Kate and Goldie. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Animal Shelter
From left, Goldie and Kate. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Animal Shelter

This week’s featured shelter pets are the fabulous mother-daughter duo Goldie Hawn and Kate Hudson at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

These exquisite beauties both boast stunning tabby coats; Goldie’s is white with magnificent shades of brown, and Kate’s is white with stunning hues of gray, giving her a unique and exotic look. Goldie (Mom) is approximately four years old, and her daughter “Kitty Kate” was born less than a year ago.

Upon first introduction, you will quickly learn that Goldie adores people and is incredibly outgoing and friendly. She will not hesitate to approach you enthusiastically, seeking attention and good petting behind her ears. It takes Kate a little longer to warm up. She’ll quietly observe her mom interact for a bit until she decides to approach for some love and affection, too. It is extraordinary to witness the endearing dynamic between this beautiful mother and daughter and how much joy they have to offer one lucky family.

This pair will warm your heart and offer a lifetime of cherished memories to share. They are bonded and need to be adopted together. Both would likely fit purr-fectly in most homes, including those with older children, possibly cats, and calm dogs. Goldie is diabetic and will need a home that can manage that. They both have FIV, which is a minor issue.

If you are interested in meeting Goldie and Kate please fill out an application to schedule time to properly interact with them in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room.The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575.

by -
0 622
Wave Twister is a new ride set to open in Adventureland of Farmingdale as the amusement park prepares to open for the summer 2025 season.Photo courtesy of Adventureland

Adventureland, 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale is set for a fun 2025 summer season, starting on Wednesday, June 25. The park will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day (Barring a few delayed openings in July. Check website/social media for up-to-date operating information.)

“Adventureland is looking forward to hosting another thrilling year of family fun!” said Caitlin DiSclafani, Park Manager of Adventureland. “We are excited to launch our Sunset Savings Program this summer as well as our new Not Ms. Rachel Show that will take place on the Adventureland Stage. Team Fun, Royal Event’s Princess Parties, and Amazing Louie’s Magic Show are joining us again this summer to add smiles, laughter, and fun for kids of all ages with their entertaining shows and skills. Our partnerships with Nassau and Suffolk Libraries continue this summer, highlighting our commitment to the communities we serve, and the critical role local libraries play in our Long Island neighborhoods.”

New Ride: Wave Twister

The new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ will open this season. This first-of-its-kind ride in the United States was custom built for Adventureland. This new ride is part of ‘phase 2’ of the amusement park’s multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment plan announced last year.

The track, which is shaped like a boomerang, fits into the ‘Legacy Corner,’ and will maximize the available space in that section. The ‘Wave Twister’ is a family ride. It was made in Switzerland by RES Rides—the same company that built the ‘FireBall’ ride. The boomerang-shaped track will 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 a ‘dry ride,’ it will have water elements consisting of fountains and mists. Two gondolas in a figure-eight shape complement this ride, which fits 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.

Entertainment Shows Returning by Popular Demand

There are plenty of entertaining shows lined up. New for this season is the Not Ms. Rachel Show (show dates will vary). Three shows returning this season by popular demand include the Royal Event’s Princess Parties on Thursdays to feature sing-a-longs on the Adventureland Stage and photo ops throughout the park. In addition, there will be engaging performances by Team Fun featuring jugglers and walking entertainers and Amazing Louie’s Magic Show.

Entertainment Show Schedule:

  • Not Ms. Rachel Show – June 28, July 12, and 26: 1 p.m., 2.p.m., and 3 p.m.
  • Royal Event’s Princess Parties – every Thursday starting June 26: 12:30-5:30
  • Team Fun – Fridays: 12 p.m.-3 p.m., and Saturdays: 5 p.m. -8 p.m.
  • Amazing Louie’s Magic Show – every Sunday: 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.

Ticket Discount Deals:

There are more ways than ever to get discount offers on tickets this season via Sunset Savings, Alfie’s Last Call, Military Discounts, as well as through the Nassau/Suffolk Library partner programs.

  • Sunset Savings: Admissions purchased at the park after 5pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7/1 – 8/21 will be $27 per person plus tax. This reflects up to a 45% discount off regular admission. The $27 per person plus tax offer applies to all ages.
  • Nassau and Suffolk Libraries: $31.50 per person with vouchers available at Nassau/Suffolk libraries.
  • Military Discounts: Available online daily for active military and veterans.
  • Alfie’s Last Call: Available 2 hours before closing every day: $27 per person plus tax applies to all ages.
  • Catholic Health Employee discount: Available online. Additional discount on birthday party packages.

For more details, visit https://adventureland.us/.

by -
0 735

In celebration of its 30th anniversary, the endlessly quotable, always fashionable, hilariously iconic 90s rom-com Clueless returns to select theaters nationwide on Sunday, June 29 and Monday, June 30, courtesy of Fathom Entertainment and Paramount Pictures. 

Starring Alicia Silverstone, Paul Rudd, Stacey Dash, and Brittany Murphy, the 1995 film is a modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s 1815 novel Emma. 

Cher (Alicia Silverstone) is the most popular and glamorous girl at Beverly Hills High. Although she may be the envy of scheming Betties and persistent Barneys, she has an innate drive to help those less fortunate, especially when it comes to love. Despite her total confidence in knowing what’s best for others, Cher is totally clueless when it comes to her own heart.

Each screening features an exclusive introduction by cinema critic and historian Leonard Maltin, discussing the landmark film’s timeless appeal and offering special insight into the classic motion picture.

Locally the film will be screened at AMC Loews Stony Brook 17, Island Cinema de Lux in Holtsville and Showcase Cinema de Lux in Farmingdale. To purchase tickets in advance, visit www.fathomentertainment.com. 

Prev123...985Next Page 2 of 985
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©