CLOSE
Arts & Entertainment

by -
0 529
Catch a screening of 'Edward Scissorhands' at the Cinema Arts Centre this Sunday.
PROGRAMS

Pizza and Pumpkin Painting

Celebrate St. James will host a Pizza & Pumpkin Painting event at the former Calderone Theatre, 176 Second St., St. James on Oct. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children will enjoy an afternoon of fun eating pizza and creating an awesome painted pumpkin to take home. $20 first child and adult, $10 additional child/adult. To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Growing Up Wild

Town of Brookhaven offers a fall nature program for ages 3 to 6, Growing Up Wild, at the Cedar Beach Nature Center, Harbor Beach Road Mt. Sinai on Oct. 21 at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. Come celebrate Halloween as you learn about some of the holiday’s most mysterious critters. Costumes encouraged. Free but registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Ghosts & Goblins Day – This event has been cancelled.

The Town of Smithtown Recreation Department will host their annual Ghosts and Goblins Day event on Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon, rain or shine. The event will take place at Brady Park, Maple Ave.,  Smithtown and will feature a variety of fun entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, including pony rides, music, games, prizes, and a balloon artist. Costumes are encouraged. Free admission, 631-360-7644.

Dual Language Family Hour

Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington presents a special Dual Language Family Hour Sundays in both Spanish and English on Oct. 22 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.  Children ages 5 through 10 are invited for a family-friendly art experience with Museum Educator Tami Wood and guest educator Karina Giménez. Explore works of art in the Museum and create fun art projects! $10 per child, adults free. To register, visit www.heckscher.org.

THEATER

‘The Wizard of Oz’

Children’s theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with The Wizard of Oz through Nov. 5. After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, Dorothy Gale teams up with a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodsman, and a Cowardly Lion to find the mighty Wizard of Oz who can send her home. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘A Kooky Spooky Halloween’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents A Kooky Spooky Halloween, a merry musical about a ghost who’s afraid of the dark, from Oct. 7 to 21. Recently graduated spirit Abner Perkins is assigned to the Aberdeen Boarding House — known for its spectral sightings and terrific toast. Here, Abner finds himself cast into a company of its wacky residents. When his secret is revealed, he is forced to leave his haunted home and set-off on a quest with his newly found friends. All tickets are $12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

A Halloween Princess Party

You are invited to a special Halloween Princess Party at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown Performances will be held on Oct. 21 at 2 p.m., Oct. 22 at 11 a.m., Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. and Oct. 29 at 11 a.m.  Learn about Halloween traditions from different kingdoms and meet new friends. Be sure to wear your best princess attire OR your Halloween costume — this non-scary experience is a royal trick-or-treat! *Please note that this is a theatrical experience and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org or call 1-800-595-4849.

FILM

‘Edward Scissorhands’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Edward Scissorhands on Oct. 22 at noon. Johnny Depp shines as an android teen orphaned by the death of his creator. Taken in by a suburban family, Edward’s scissor hands make him a hit in hair-styling and horticulture, but trouble arises when he falls for beautiful Kim. Rated PG-13. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

by -
0 1076
SPOOKY WHEELS Long Island Cars will present the Fall Harvest Car Show and Swap Meet on the scenic lawn of Flowerfield Fairgrounds in Saint James on Oct. 22.
Ongoing

Dark Night Halloween World

Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville hosts the 3rd annual Dark Night Halloween World, an outdoor extravaganza combining moderate scares with comedy that at the same time celebrates the nostalgia of vintage haunted trails through a post-modern twist on inspired characters from pop culture and horror movies of the 1990s, on multiple days through Oct. 31. Tickets are $35 per person, $50 VIP front of the line. www.DarkNightLI.com

Thursday 19

Garden Club Flower Show

Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn will host the Centerport Garden Club’s Small Standard Flower Show “Bewitched” to celebrate the season today from 2 to 8 p.m. and Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Suggested donation is $5. 516-527-0517

Friday 20

Garden Club Flower Show

See Oct. 19 listing.

(Not So Scary) Halloween

The community is invited to join Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty in Stony Brook (1061 Route 25A) for a night of tricks, treats, and everything in-between from 5 to 7 p.m. Featuring costumes, arts & crafts, giveaways, raffles, (not so) scary stories, and so much more! Geared for children ages 10 and under. 631-689-6980

Spooky Lantern Walking Tour

The Miller Place Mount Sinai Historical Society presents its annual Spooky Lantern Tour, a not-too-scary walking tour of the haunted history of Miller Place, tonight, Oct. 21, 27 & 28 at 5:30 p.m., 6:15 p.m. and 7 p.m. Walk the Miller Place Historic District with a guide from the MPMS Historical Society who will regale you with all the spooky stories surrounding this pre-Revolutionary War town. Bring a lantern or flashlight and wear comfortable shoes. For ages 10 and up. Tickets are $17 per person. www.mpmshistoricalsociety.eventbrite.com

Harbor Haunts

​Explore Cold Spring Harbor’s ghostly side with fascinating tales of mishaps and historic hauntings on Main Street, courtesy of the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor, tonight and Oct. 27 at 5:30 p.m. and Oct. 21 and 28 at 4:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Held rain or shine. Tickets are ​$15. 631-367-3418, www.cshwhalingmuseum.org

Saturday 21

Spooky Lantern Walking Tour

See Oct. 20 listing.

Harbor Haunts

See Oct. 20 listing.

Sweetbriar Thrift Sale

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will hold a Thrift Sale fundraiser in front of the red double garage doors in the parking lot from 9:30 to 3 p.m. Antiques, small treasures, knick knacks and more! 631-979-6344

Christmas in October Craft Fair – This event has been cancelled.

Rescheduled from Oct. 14. The annual Christmas in October Village Craft Fair will be held on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 100d craft vendors, live music, food trucks, pumpkins, mums, hot cider and donuts. Free admission. 631-846-1459

Harvest Fair

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Main Street, Huntington invites the community to a Harvest Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring holiday boutiques, silent auction, baked goods, raffle baskets, white elephant, antiques and fabulous finds, casual and professional thrift shop, handcrafted items. 631-427-1752, stjohnshuntington.org

Oktober Harvest Fest 

The Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and the Port Jeff BID hosts a Oktober Harvest Fest today and Oct. 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Events will be held throughout the village with live music, children’s activities, costumed dog parade, pumpkin carving, horse and wagon rides, pie eating contest and much more. 631-473-1414 See more on page B3.

Fall Festival at The Shoppes – This event has been postponed to Oct. 28 & 29

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River, hosts a Fall Festival today and Oct. 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy a mix of seasonal festivities, from face painting to visiting Beyond Crafting Boutique for Daily workshops to create your own Halloween decorations, local craft vendors, scarecrow contest, bounce house, carousel and live music. www.eastwindlongisland.com

Blessing of the Animals

First Presbyterian Church of Port Jefferson, 107 South Street, Port Jefferson will hold a Blessing of the Animals during the Port Jefferson Harvest Fest from noon to 2 p.m.  Pastor Mark Applewhite will bless your pets on the front lawn. Please bring pets on leashes or in carriers. 631-473-0147

TVHS Spirits Tour

Ah, October. The perfect time of year to grab a light jacket, sip a hot drink, and go for a casual walk through a cemetery, right?! Join the Three Village Historical Society for its 29th annual Spirits Cemetery Tour tonight! Guests will be guided to 10 locations in two of Setauket’s historic cemeteries — Caroline Episcopal Church of Setauket and the Setauket Presbyterian Church Cemetery — to walk-in on conversations between local spirits from Chicken Hill. ​ Tours, which last 1 1/2 hours, leave from the Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket every 15 minutes beginning at 5 p.m. with the last tour leaving at 7:30 p.m. Rain date is Oct. 28. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. 631-751-3730, www.tvhs.org

Sip Make Play Workshop

Join Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket for a Sip Make Play event from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests will have all the supplies they need to create fun Halloween accessories! Have some well deserved fun and allow yourself to play with art materials! $45 includes all materials, snacks & drinks. Adults only please. To register, visit www.gallerynorth.org.

Owl Prowl at the Vanderbilt

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport hosts an Owl Prowl at 6 p.m. After a presentation on the owls of Long Island, biologist and ranger Eric Powers, co-founder of the Center for Environmental Education & Discovery (CEED), will lead a walk on the estate grounds, during which he will attempt to call in nearby owls. Flashlights are not permitted. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the hiking trail is uneven and it will be dark. $12 per person, members free. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Costumes & Cocktails Fundraiser

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook for a Halloween-themed presentation and cocktail party fundraiser with Victoria Wyeth from 7 to 9 p.m. Wyeth will share spooky, seasonal stories and a slide presentation of works of art inspired by the autumn by her famous grandfather, Andrew Wyeth, as well as her uncle, artist Jamie Wyeth. Costumes are optional. Tickets are $100. To order, visit www.rebolicenter.org. 631-751-7707

Ballet Hispanico at SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook welcomes Ballet Hispanico to the Main Stage at 8 p.m. One of America’s cultural treasures and ambassadors of Latinx Dance for over 50 years, Ballet Hispánico is known for stunning dancers, daring routines by Latinx choreographers, and a fusion of Latin dance with classical and contemporary techniques, creating a new style of concert dance where theatricality and passion are at the core. Tickets range from $41 to $52. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com

Sunday 22

Oktober Harvest Fest 

See Oct. 21 listing.

Fall Festival at The Shoppes

See Oct. 21 listing.

Car Show and Swap Meet

Flowerfield Fairgrounds, Route 25A, St. James hosts a Fall Harvest 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. Vendors selling parts and accessories, plus a variety of cars for sale by owners. Admission is $10, under 12 years free. Rain date is Oct 29. 631-567-5898, www.longislandcars.com

Dog Days at the Farm

Calling all dog lovers! Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Road, Yaphank hosts Dog Days at the Farm from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet dog rescues, try out a variety of dog sports (agility, rally, scentwork, etc), learn about therapy dogs, canine good citizen, trick and farm dog certifications, play games, pick a pumpkin, costume contest, take a wagon ride and do barks and crafts. Fun for all! Dogs must be up to date on their rabies vaccination (proof required at entrance) and leashed Admission is $15 per person. Call 631-852-4600 for more information.

Sheriff’s Office Open House

In honor of New York State’s Sheriff’s Week, Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. is encouraging the public to come out to the Sheriff’s Annual Open House and Family Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Yaphank Correctional Facility, 200 Glover Drive, Yaphank from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free event features jail tours throughout the day for residents ages 12 and up, exciting demonstrations by the Sheriff’s Office departments including the Emergency Response Team and K9 unit, Sheriff’s Office vehicle displays, food trucks, music, and free activities all day long. Held rain or shine. www.suffolksheriff.com

Whitman String Quartet in concert

Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket presents a classical concert from 2 to 3 p.m. Joenne Dumitrascu and Stephen Gorgone of the Whitman String Quartet will present string solos and duos in the stunning, historic 1892 section of the library. The public is invited to stroll in, relax and listen to the music while taking in the gorgeous historic scenery. No registration necessary. 631-941-4080

RPHS Anniversary Tea

The Rocky Point Historical Society will hold a 25th anniversary Tea at the North Shore Beach Clubhouse, 55 Clubhouse Drive, Rocky Point at 3 p.m. Debra Scala Giokas, author of Ladies First: Common Threads will speak at the event. $35 per person includes program, sandwiches and cookies and raffle baskets. To order, call 631-744-1776 

Monday 23

SHS Fall Lecture

Join the Smithtown Historical Society for a Fall Lecture titled Long Island Railroad and Smithtown at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown at 7 p.m. David D. Morrison, founder and past president of the Long Island Rail Road Historical Society, will share with the audience photographs, history and interesting anecdotes about the LIRR, especially relating to our area. Light refreshments to be served. Free. 631-265-6768

Tuesday 24

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to join them for a health lecture in the Social Hall at 11 a.m.  Roy Franks, personal trainer, member of the NSJC Men’s Club, and owner of “Fitness 4 You,” will discuss the perfect couple: Exercise and Nutrition. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Wednesday 25

Autumn Sip & Paint Party

Join  the Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 main St., Stony Brook for its annual Autumn Sip & Paint Party from 6:30 to  9 p.m. For this paint party, the subject matter will be Joseph Reboli’s Pumpkins. Linda Davison Matheus will instruct participants through recreating the beautiful still life by Reboli, one step at a time. Participants over the age of 21 will be offered their choice of white or red wine. No previous experience is required to attend, suitable for all levels.

$45 registration fee includes materials. Register by calling 631-751-7707 or by emailing [email protected].

Author Talk

Three Village Historical Society presents a special book talk and signing with Scott R. Ferrara titled A Discovery of Witches at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket at 7 p.m. Ferrara will speak about his book, Accused of Witchcraft in New York, presenting harrowing narratives of those who were accused of witchcraft, the feverish community dramas that resulted, and the lives of those who faced their community as an outsider. Free. To register, visit www.tvhs.org.

Thursday 26

Stony Brook Walking Tour

Join the Ward Melville Heritage Organization for a Spooky Walking Tour throughout Stony Brook Village today and Oct. 27. Titled Hidden Beneath the Floorboards, the tour leads you through a spooky walking tour of the history filled Grist Mill and Long Island’s beloved coastal village. Discover Ghost Ships, Spirit Photography, the Long Island Witch Trials, John Winthrop’s Alchemy, Star-Crossed Lovers, The ghostly apparition at the Country House Restaurant, and William Sidney Mount’s spirit filled paintings plus Women Mediums and the Suffrage Movement. Tours take place at 10:45 a.m. and 3:50 p.m. and start at the Grist Mill. Tickets are $15 per person. Reservations are required by calling 631-751-2244.

Film

‘Israel Swings for Gold’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues with a screening of Israel Swings for Gold at John F. Kennedy Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. In 2021, Israel’s baseball team competed in the Olympics for the first time. With no media allowed in Tokyo’s Olympic Village, the players recorded their own experiences.Mostly newly minted Israelis, they log unexpected battles against anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism. Followed by a Q&A with guest speaker Jeremy Newberger, Co-Director. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffersondocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

‘Motherhood Out Loud’

Township Theatre Group presents Motherhood Out Loud at Temple Beth El, 660 Park Ave., Huntington on Oct. 26 and 28 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. A lively collection of scenes and stories celebrating the joys and terrors of being a mother is presented as a staged reading.  In a series of heartwarming, moving and hilarious monologues and choral pieces, Motherhood Out Loud shatters traditional notions about parenthood, unveils its inherent comedy and celebrates the deeply personal truths that span and unite generations.   For everyone who has a mother, is a mother, knows or loves a mother, this play is for you. Tickets are $20 at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/6146151 via credit card; cash/check only a door. 631-213-9832

‘The Prom’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off its 53rd season with The Prom from Sept. 16 to Oct. 21. As the lights dim on four fading Broadway stars, they wildly seek the spotlight. Courting the controversy surrounding a small-town Indiana prom, the quartet invades a community that wants to keep the party straight. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors, $20 students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Rent’ 

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Jonathan Larson’s Rent from Sept. 16 to Oct. 22. Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, the groundbreaking musical follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians — Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, Benny and Mark — struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org. 

‘Beautiful’

Main stage theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical now extended to Nov. 5. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing success with Tapestry, the show takes you back to where it all began–and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” and many more. This Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning show is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget. Tickets start at $80. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘An Inspector Calls’

Minstrel Players, Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport presents J.B. Priestley’s An Inspector Calls from Oct. 14 to 22. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 516-361-7232 or email [email protected].

by -
0 1008
Cleanup efforts are underway at the Art League of Long Island

Last month’s unprecedented rainstorm wreaked havoc on Long Island and the Art League of Long Island was not spared from the wrath of Mother Nature. The heavy rains on the night of September 29 led to extensive rain damage within the Art League of Long Island’s two-story art center, located at 107 East Deer Park Road in Dix Hills. 

As a result, the organization has been compelled to temporarily close its doors, including all exhibits, programs, and classes, for an estimated duration of four weeks or more, according to Marianne Della Croce, the non-profit’s Executive Director.  The rainstorm caused substantial damage to the gallery, studios, hallways, and office space, resulting in significant harm to floors and walls, while only minimal damage was incurred by two wall murals created by our Resident Artists Program. 

Cleanup efforts are underway at the Art League of Long Island

In response, the Art League promptly engaged the services of ServePro to commence the abatement process, which was successfully completed in under two weeks. Following this phase, the Art League will embark on the reconstruction of its facility, “presenting a unique opportunity to deliver a fresh and enhanced Art League experience to the vibrant community of Long Island upon reopening,” said Della Croce.

The Art League is also working with other local nonprofits and community partners to temporarily host some of our upcoming events and classes.  The Executive Director and Education & Program Manager, Ersule Metelus, have spent the last week visiting these alternate sites to determine the best fit for each one of our unique programs.

The Long Island Craft Guild, originally scheduled to host a month-long exhibition at the Art League titled “Seeing the Other,” featuring local artists’ work, had to cancel its opening reception planned for the day after the storm.  In response to the unforeseen circumstances, the Craft Guild artists have retrieved their artworks, including glass mosaics, sculptures, wood designs, and pottery, all of which fortunately remained unscathed. The Jeanie Tengelsen Gallery at the Art League of Long Island is a highly sought-after exhibition space, often reserved a year in advance. The Art League has offered the group gallery space for the year 2025, allowing them ample time to determine their way forward.

Furthermore, the Latin Heritage Month Celebration, co-hosted by the Art League and Colored Colors and sponsored by Legislator Manuel Esteban, has been rescheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023. This event promises to be a vibrant and culturally enriching experience for all attendees, featuring music, dancing, delectable Latin cuisine, and a variety of vendors offering unique cultural products and crafts. The event’s headlining band, Bachatu, will serenade the audience with captivating rhythms. Additionally, children will have the opportunity to participate in a Huichol Mexican Yarn Painting project, providing a hands-on cultural experience.

Their Ceramics Department Fundraiser, “Made with Mud, Kissed by Fire” which was scheduled for October 21st has been postponed to January 27, 2024. The Art League of Long Island looks to bring you ceramic entertainment, raffles, an auction, and hors-d’oeuvres for you to enjoy while helping support one of their dynamic departments. Your ticket to the event entitles you to take home one bowl made by our instructors, staff, and long-term students. Please continue to purchase tickets to this lively event on our website.

The financial implications of the flooding damage are substantial for the Art League of Long Island, an educational center dedicated to the visual arts since its establishment in 1955. While insurance coverage will alleviate a portion of the repair expenses, the Art League seeks the support of the local community during this challenging time. 

The Art League of Long Island has faced significant operational challenges before. The non-profit was forced to put its headquarters on the market due to the closure necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Revenues, primarily derived from tuition, along with donations, memberships, exhibition, and gallery rentals, quickly dwindled. Nonetheless, a local fundraising campaign generated over $100,000 in donations, which aided in steering the Art League away from financial turmoil. Marianne Della Croce remains hopeful that the community will rally around the Art League once again, ensuring its resilience as it progresses toward its 70th Anniversary in less than two years.

For more information or to offer support, please visit the Art League of Long Island’s website at www.artleagueli.org/donate/ or email [email protected] 

About Art League of Long Island: The Art League of Long Island, founded in 1955, is a 501c non-profit visual arts organization committed to enriching the community through fine arts education and exhibitions. Located in Dix Hills, New York, the Art League serves as a hub for artistic expression and cultural appreciation, providing a wide range of classes, workshops, exhibitions, and events for artists and art enthusiasts of all ages.

by -
0 875
Photo from TOB

The Town of Brookhaven has announced that the Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center’s Suffolk “Barktoberfest” Howl-o-ween pet parade and costume contest will be held on Sunday, October 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Fireman’s Park, 724 Middle Country Road in Ridge. The parade is co-sponsored by the Suffolk County Legal Aid Society and Shirley Feed. Children are encouraged to come in costume, ready for Trick or Treating.

As part of the “Barktoberfest” celebration, there will be free adoptions at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center on October 30 and 31. Free adoptions include free neuter or spay, vaccinations, microchip, license, FIV/FELV tested, flea and fecal.

The Brookhaven Town Animal Shelter and Adoption Center is located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven. It is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information about the Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, please call 631-451-6950 or visit our Animal Shelter page.

by -
0 832

Save the date! The Brookhaven Town Youth Bureau is teaming up with All Suffolk Car Clubs to present their Annual Charity Car Show, Food and Toy Drive on Sunday, November 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain or shine) at Brookhaven Town Hall, located at One Independence Hill in Farmingville. Club members will be displaying their cars in the south parking lot to raise donations for families in need through the Youth Bureau’s INTERFACE Program. There will also be a Silent Auction, raffles and live music.

Attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food items to contribute to the Thanksgiving Food Drive and new, unwrapped toys for children to open during the holiday season. Admission is free and cash donations are accepted. There will be no judging of the vehicles and trophies will not be awarded. Free hot dogs and beverages will be served and there will be live music and entertainment throughout the day. The event is rain or shine. For further information, please call Maxine at 516-658-1977 and Charlie at 631-831-3547.

INTERFACE is a partnership between individuals, good corporate neighbors and the Town of Brookhaven in a common effort to provide help to Brookhaven’s less fortunate residents. It provides goods and services to those in need and addresses local social issues. There are approximately 150 corporations, not-for-profit agencies and community and fraternal organizations that make up INTERFACE. To learn more about the Town’s INTERFACE Program, visit our Community Programs page or call 631-451-8026.

by -
0 1074
1 of 4
Pictured left to right, Stuart B. Almer, President and CEO of GurwinHealthcare System, Marianne DeSilva, Gurwin Assisted Living resident, Joel Gali, Vice President/Administrator, Gurwin Assisted Living and Dina McDougald, Assistant Administrator, Gurwin Assisted Living.Photo from Gurwin Jewish ~ Fay J. Lindner Residences.
Photo from Gurwin
Photo from Gurwin
Photo from Gurwin

Gurwin Jewish ~ Fay J. Lindner Residences assisted living community in Commack welcomed its first resident of their newly built studio apartments with a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 22.

The 18 new studio apartment homes offer a stylish, modern feel, and range in size from 241 to 278 sq. ft. Each studio includes living/sleeping areas, a kitchenette with stainless steel appliances, spacious closets, and fully ADA-equipped bathrooms. Large windows welcome natural sunlight and several of the apartments feature courtyard views.

“The new studio apartments at Gurwin Assisted Living were a perfect option,” said Marianne DeSilva, formerly of Mount Sinai, Long Island. “A smaller apartment is fine for me, especially because I am still part of the larger community.”

The construction of the new studios marks a new choice option for the 210-luxury apartment community, located on the GurwinHealthcare System’s lush 36-acre Commack campus, and comes in response to market interest for more streamlined residences at a lower price point. Pricing begins at $4,950 per month and includes three chef-prepared meals daily, housekeeping, personal laundry and maintenance services, medical appointment transportation and emergency response connectivity. Residents enjoy a bustling calendar of enriching social activities, special events and local excursions.

“We are so excited to welcome Marianne as the first resident of our new studio apartments,” said Stuart B. Almer, Chief Executive Officer of r. “Our beautiful new studios meet the needs of Long Island seniors who desire a comfortable, smaller footprint residence within a caring, active and vibrant community.”

Gurwin’s Assisted Living community includes a formal dining room, a well-stocked library, tastefully appointed gathering areas, activity rooms, a synagogue, beauty/barber salon and rooms to host guests and family. Residents also have priority access to all levels of Gurwin’s care, including Gurwin’s rehabilitation and skilled nursing facility and on-site dialysis, home care programs and adult day care. In addition, residents enjoy the community’s manicured gardens, beautifully landscaped walking paths, and myriad outdoor activities including a shuffleboard court, putting green and LifeTrail exercise stations.

For information about Gurwin’s assisted living community, contact Beth at 631-715-8500.

by -
0 553
Stock photo

By Michael Christodoulou

You may spend decades contributing to various retirement accounts. But for some accounts, such as a traditional IRA and 401(k), you must start withdrawing funds at a certain point. What should you know about this requirement?

To begin with, the rules governing these withdrawals — technically called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — have changed recently. For many years, individuals had to begin taking their RMDs (which are based on the account balance and the IRS’ life expectancy factor) when they turned 70½. 

The original SECURE Act of 2019 raised this age to 72, and SECURE 2.0, passed in 2022, raised it again, to 73. (If you turned 73 in 2023, and you were 72 in 2022 when the RMD limit was still 72, you should have taken your first RMD for 2022 by April 1 of this year. You will then need to take your 2023 RMD by Dec. 31. And going forward, you’ll also need to take your RMDs by the end of every year.) 

Not all retirement accounts are subject to RMDs. They aren’t required for a Roth IRA, and, starting in 2024, won’t be required for a Roth 401(k) or 403(b) plan. But if your account does call for RMDs, you do need to take them, because if you don’t, you could face tax penalties. Previously, this penalty was 50% of the amount you were supposed to have taken, but SECURE 2.0 reduced it to 25%.

When you take your RMDs, you need to be aware of a key issue: taxes. RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, and, as such, they could potentially bump you into a higher tax bracket and possibly even increase your Medicare premiums, which are determined by your modified adjusted gross income. 

Are there any ways you could possibly reduce an RMD-related tax hike? You might have some options. Here are two to consider:

• Convert tax-deferred accounts to Roth IRA. You could convert some, or maybe all, of your tax-deferred retirement accounts to a Roth IRA. By doing so, you could lower your RMDs in the future — while adding funds to an account you’re never required to touch. So, if you don’t really need all the money to live on, you could include the remainder of the Roth IRA in your estate plans, providing an initially tax-free inheritance to your loved ones. However, converting a tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA will generate taxes in the year of conversion, so you’d need the money available to pay this tax bill. 

• Donate RMDs to charity. In what’s known as a qualified charitable distribution, you can move up to $100,000 of your RMDs directly from a traditional IRA to a qualified charity, avoiding the taxes that might otherwise result if you took the RMDs yourself. After 2023, the $100,000 limit will be indexed to inflation.

Of course, before you start either a Roth IRA conversion or a qualified charitable distribution, you will need to consult with your tax advisor, as both these moves have issues you must consider and may not be appropriate for your situation.

But it’s always a good idea to know as much as you can about the various aspects of RMDs — they could play a big part in your retirement income strategy.  

Michael Christodoulou, ChFC®, AAMS®, CRPC®, CRPS® is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Stony Brook. Member SIPC.

by -
0 924
Educational Programs Administrator Michele Darienzo Photo from BNL

By Daniel Dunaief

Brookhaven National Laboratory hopes to inspire the scientists of the future.

The Department of Energy sponsored national laboratory, which attracts scientists from all over the world to its state-of-the-art facility, opens its doors regularly to local students and teachers, with researchers and educators translating what they do to area residents at all levels of scientific development and understanding.

Amid so many other efforts and with a welcome return to on-site education after pandemic restrictions over the last few years, BNL received DOE funding to help eight area teachers learn how to create computer coding.

In their classrooms, these educators have shared what they studied this past summer with their students.

Amanda Horn

Coding, which uses programs like Python and Arduino, can help scientists create a set of instructions that allow computers to process and sort through data more rapidly than any person could by hand.

At the same time, a knowledge of coding can and does provide students with tools that scientists seek when they are choosing graduate students, technicians or staff in their laboratories.

Coding helps to set students “up for a job,” said Michele Darienzo, Educational Programs Administrator and one of the two teachers for the four-week summer program. “It puts you at the top of the pile.”

Darienzo added that efforts such as these prepare the science, technology, engineering and math workforce for the future.

Using modern technology, researchers collect data in a wide range of fields at a rate that requires technological help to sort through it and derive meaning from it.

“We’re at the point where lots of projects are collecting so much data and information,” said Darienzo. “We have one experiment [that is producing] many iPhones per second worth of data. That’s not something a person can do in their lifetime.”

Darienzo taught the programming language Python to the class of teachers, while Amanda Horn, who is also an Educational Programs Administrator, instructed these educators with Arduino.

“It went really well,” said Horn. “The teachers seemed really engaged in everything we were doing.”

A day in the life of a river

Bernadette Uzzi

Beyond the on site experience at BNL, Horn accompanied a class this fall or a Day in the Life of the Carmans River at Smith Point County Marina.

The students used sensors to measure numerous variables, such as temperature, pressure and humidity. With another sensor, they were able to measure carbon dioxide levels.

“If you cup your hand around the sensor, you can graph [the level of the gas] in real time using the code,” said Horn. Variabilities occurred because of the movement of air, among other factors, she added.

The students on the trip “seemed excited [to use the sensors] and to get a sense of how they worked,” Horn said.

In the context of global warming in which greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide drive an increase in temperature, Horn addressed why it’s important to measure the levels of the gas.

Ongoing efforts

Training teachers to code represents one of numerous educational efforts BNL offers.

The Office of Educational Programs has hosted over 30,000 participants in various programs in its K-12 and university science education programs.

Kenneth White

Bringing students back on site this year after suspending in person visits amid the pandemic created a “big difference” for students, in terms of their excitement and enthusiasm, said Kenneth White, Manager of the Office of Educational Programs.

Jeffrey Tejada, a junior at Brown University, conducted summer research in the Computational Sciences Initiative.

Tejada, who grew up in Patchogue and moved to Medford, appreciated the opportunities he’s had since he started coming to BNL at the age of 14.

“It’s crazy how incredible BNL Is as a resource,” said Tejada, whose parents are immigrants from the Dominican Republic.

Indeed, the first year Tejada attended, Aleida Perez, Manager, University Relations and DOE Programs at BNL, needed to convince his mother Rosa Tejada that the effort, which didn’t involve any pay, would benefit her son.

“My mom asked [Perez,], ‘how worth it is this?’” Tejada recalled. Perez told Rosa Tejada, “You have to do this.”

His mom didn’t understand, but she listened and “that’s all that mattered,” as Tejada not only conducted research over the years, but is also planning to earn his PhD after he graduates.

White suggested that the recent coding effort was a recognition that students coming for internships at BNL or for scientific training opportunities elsewhere ended up spending considerable time trying to “figure out the basics” of coding.

Aleida Perez

In the first year of the teaching program, BNL reached out to teachers in 20 school districts that met particular criteria, including serving a high percentage of students that are traditionally under-represented in STEM fields. This included Longwood, Hampton Bays, Williams Floyd, South Huntington, Roosevelt, Central Islip, Middle Country and Brentwood.

The first week of the program was “frightening” for some of the teachers, who hadn’t had coding experience, said Perez. The teachers were “glad they came back for week two.”

As a part of the program, teachers presented their coding lessons to high school students on site at BNL, said Bernadette Uzzi, Manager, K-12 Programs in the Office of Educational Programs.

The final assessment test was a “pretty fun day,” Uzzi said, as the students pushed teachers to go further with their outdoor explorations.

Uzzi was thrilled when she had read that the Department of Energy had invited BNL to write a proposal for this pilot program. “Coding skills are important to be a scientist, no matter what field you’re in” she said. “There’s definitely a gap in what students are learning in school versus what is needed in the STEM workforce.”

Summer of ’24

At this point, it’s unclear if the DOE will build on this pilot program and offer additional teachers the opportunity to learn coding and bring this skill back to their classroom.

Uzzi said she would like to increase the number of teacher participants to 12 next year and to add physics applications to the current course work, which included a focus on environmental climate science.

by -
0 1074
This event has been cancelled due to the weather.

The Town of Smithtown Recreation Department will host the annual Ghosts and Goblins Day event on Saturday, October 21 from 10 a.m. to noon, rain or shine. The event will take place at Brady Park, located at Maple Avenue in Smithtown. Ghosts and Goblins Day will feature a variety of fun entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, including pony rides, music, games, prizes, and a balloon artist. Costumes are encouraged. Admission for the festivities is free of charge.

“This is a spectacular event for the whole family. I look forward to bringing my grandkids to Ghosts & Goblins day every year. Our Recreation Department goes above and beyond to put together a fall day of family-oriented Halloween themed activities. I’d highly recommend anyone with younger kids, ages 5-8, mark your calendars to partake in this memorable annual event,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Families attending the festivities are welcome to dress up in Halloween costumes. In addition to all the activities planned, donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted for the Smithtown Food Pantry. All donors will receive a raffle ticket for the prize raffle (must be present to win).

For more information on Ghosts and Goblins Day, contact the Recreation Department at 631-360-7644.

by -
0 1695
'I have seen very good results when treating patients who have eczema with dietary changes.- Dr. David Dunaief METRO photo
New treatments are evolving

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

If you have eczema, you’re familiar with its symptoms, which can include rashes, itching, pain and redness. What may not be as clear are its causes and potential implications.

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory process, and it’s likely caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle choices (1).

While there is no cure, some treatments can ease symptoms and reduce flare-ups. These range from over-the-counter creams and lotions, antihistamines for itchiness, prescription steroid creams, oral steroids, and injectable biologics. Some sufferers use phototherapy for severe cases, but there’s not a lot of research suggesting this is effective. Interestingly, diet may play an important role.

Two separate studies have shown an association between eczema and fracture risk, which we will investigate further.

How does diet affect eczema?

In a Japanese study involving over 700 pregnant women and their offspring, results showed that when the women ate either a diet high in green and yellow vegetables, beta carotene or citrus fruit there was a significant reduction in the risk of the child having eczema of 59 percent, 48 percent and 47 percent, respectively, when comparing highest to lowest consumption quartiles (2).

Elimination diets may also play a role. One study’s results showed when eggs were removed from the diet of those who were allergic, according to IgE testing, eczema improved significantly (3).

From an anecdotal perspective, I have seen very good results when treating patients who have eczema with dietary changes. My patient population includes many patients who suffer from some level of eczema. For example, a young adult had eczema mostly on his extremities. When we first met, these were angry, excoriated, erythematous and scratched lesions. However, after several months of a vegetable-rich diet, the patient’s skin improved significantly.

Do supplements help reduce eczema symptoms?

There are two well-known supplements for helping to reduce inflammation, evening primrose oil and borage oil. Are these supplements a good replacement for – or addition to – medications? The research is really mixed, leaning toward ineffective. There are also some important concerns about them.

In a meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials, evening primrose oil was no better than placebo in treating eczema (4).

The researchers also looked at eight studies of borage oil and found there was no difference from placebo in terms of symptom relief. While these supplements only had minor side effects in the study, they can interact with other medications. For example, evening primrose oil in combination with aspirin can cause clotting problems (5).

The upshot? Don’t expect supplements to provide significant help. If you do try them, be sure to consult with your physician first.

Are biologics a good alternative?

Injectable biologics are among the newest treatments and are generally recommended when other treatment options have failed (6). There are two currently approved by the FDA, dupilumab and tralokinumab.

In trials, these injectable drugs showed good results, improving outcomes for moderate to severe eczema sufferers when topical steroids alone were not effective. Like other monoclonal antibodies, they work by interfering with parts of your immune system. They suppress messengers of the white blood cells, called interleukins. This leaves a door open for side effects, like serious infections.

Does eczema affect bone health?

Several studies have examined the relationship between eczema and broken bones. One observational study of 34,500 patients showed that those with eczema had a 44 percent increased risk of injury causing limitation and a 67 percent risk of bone fracture and bone or joint injury for those 30 years and older (7).

If you have both fatigue or insomnia in combination with eczema, you are at higher risk for bone or joint injury than having one or the other alone. The researchers postulated that corticosteroids used in treatment could be one reason, in addition to chronic inflammation, which may also contribute to bone loss risk. 

Steroids may weaken bone, ligaments and tendons and may cause osteoporosis by decreasing bone mineral density.

A study of over 500,000 patients tested this theory and found that the association between major osteoporotic fractures and atopic eczema remained, even after adjusting for a range of histories with oral corticosteroids (8). Also, fracture rates were higher in those with severe atopic eczema.

For those who have eczema, it may be wise to have a DEXA (bone) scan.

Eczema exists on a spectrum from annoying to significantly affecting a patient’s quality of life. Supplements may not be the solution, at least not borage oil nor evening primrose oil. However, there may be promising medications for the hard to treat. It might be best to avoid long-term systemic steroids because of their long-term side effects. Diet adjustments appear to be very effective, at least at the anecdotal level.

References:

(1) Acta Derm Venereol (Stockh) 1985;117 (Suppl.):1-59. (2) Allergy. 2010 Jun 1;65(6):758-765. (3) J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;50(3):391-404. (4) Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;4:CD004416. (5) mayoclinic.org (9) Medscape.com. (6) JAMA Dermatol. 2015;151(1):33-41. (7) J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021 Sep 24;S2213-2198(21)01018-7. (8) nationaleczema.org.

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

Prev1...210211212...964Next Page 211 of 964
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

©