The cast of 'Pinkalicious' at the Engeman Theater.
Emilie Goodrich stars as Pinkalicious in 'Pinkalicious The Musical'
Kara Vito and Emilie Goodrich star in 'Pinkalicious The Musical' at the Engeman Theater
The cast of 'Pinkalicious' at the Engeman Theater.
Justin Autz, Emilie Goodrich and Jae Hughes in a scene from 'Pinkalicious The Musical' at the Engeman Theater
Emilie Goodrich and Justin Autz in a scene from 'Pinkalicious The Musical' at the Engeman Theater
The cast of 'Pinkalicious' at the Engeman Theater.
By Heidi Sutton
What’s your favorite color? If the answer is pink, then you should run, not walk, to the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport to catch a truly wonderful production of Pinkalicious the Musical.
Based on the popular children’s book by Elizabeth and Victoria Kann, the show tells the story of a little girl named Pinkalicious Pinkerton who loves the color pink (“It’s a color like no other!”) and is obsessed with pink cupcakes.
Despite her parent’s warnings, Pinkalicious overindulges on the sugary delights and wakes up the next day pink from head to toe. The doctor diagnoses her with pinkititis and in order to keep it from becoming worse she has to eat healthy green foods. But Pinkalicious just can’t stop eating those cupcakes, and when she wakes up the second morning, she’s turned red. She realizes the only way out of this predicament is to follow doctor’s orders. But is it too late? Will she be red forever?
Directed by Danny Meglio with choreography by Jillian Sharpe, the show is an instant hit thanks to a talented cast of five who tackle this fast-paced script with ease.
Perfectly cast in the role of Pinkalicious, Emilie Goodrich embraces her inner child to bring this colorful, energetic character to life and sparkles on stage. The other members of the family, the organized Mrs. Pinkerton (the delightful Kassie Kueffne), the busy Mr. Pinkerton (an incredible Justin Autz), and overlooked brother Peter (the multi-talented Jae Hughes) along with best friend Alison (the amazing Kara Vito), play multiple roles throughout the show with unbounded enthusiasm.
What’s special about this show is that each actor has a chance to shine with a solo, from Goodrich’s lovely “When Dreams Come True,” to Kueffne’s lullaby “You Get Just What You Get,” Vito’s “Pinkititis,” Jae Hughes’ heartfelt “I Got the Pink Blues,” and Autz in the “Finale.”
There are also so many wonderful moments in the show. At one point the family goes to the doctor’s office on a pink four seat bicycle. On the way back home, they take a detour through the aisles of the theater to go to a park with a real slide. While at the park Pinkalicious is surrounded by a bee, a bird and two butterflies who are attracted to her pink color in the cute number “Buzz Off.”Another time, Pinkalicious has a dream about pink cupcakes who all of a sudden walk out of the refrigerator and start singing and dancing. Great stuff.
Pinkalicious is more than a story about eating your vegetables. It is about the power of communication, the love of family and the affirmation that a little pink goes a long way. Don’t miss this one.
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Pinkalicious The Musical through July 3. All seats are $20. For more information or to order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Now that cryptocurrencies so much in the news, you might be wondering if you should invest in them. But “invest” may not be the right word — because, in many ways, cryptocurrencies, or “crypto” for short, are more speculation than investment.
But what’s really the difference between a speculator and an investor? Probably the main factor is the differing views of time. A true investor is in it for the long term, building a portfolio that, over many years, can eventually provide the financial resources to achieve important goals, such as a comfortable retirement. But speculators want to see results, in the form of big gains, right now — and they’re often willing to take big risks to achieve these outcomes.
There’s also the difference in knowledge. Investors know that they’re buying shares of stock in a company that manufactures products or provides services. But many speculators in cryptocurrency don’t fully comprehend what they’re buying because crypto just isn’t that easy to understand.
Cryptocurrency is a digital asset, and cryptocurrency transactions only exist as digital entries on a blockchain, with the “block” essentially being just a collection of information, or digital ledgers. But even knowing this doesn’t necessarily provide a clear picture to many of those entering the crypto world.
In addition to time and understanding, two other elements help define cryptocurrency’s speculative nature:
Lack of regulation: When you invest in the traditional financial markets, your transactions are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the firms with which you invest are typically overseen by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Other agencies are also involved in regulating various investments. These regulating bodies work to ensure the basic fairness of the financial markets and to prevent and investigate fraud.
But cryptocurrency exchanges are essentially unregulated, and this lack of oversight has contributed to the growth of “scam” exchanges, crypto market manipulation, excessive trading fees and other predatory practices. This “Wild West” scenario should be of concern to anyone putting money in crypto.
Volatility:Cryptocurrencies are subject to truly astonishing price swings, with big gains followed by enormous losses — sometimes within a matter of hours. What’s behind this type of volatility? Actually, several factors are involved. For one thing, the price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies depends heavily on supply and demand —and the demand can skyrocket when media outlets and crypto “celebrities” tout a particular offering.
Furthermore, speculators will bet on crypto prices moving up or down, and these bets can trigger a rush on buying and selling, again leading to the rapid price movements. And many purchasers of crypto, especially young people, want to see big profits quickly, so when they lose large amounts, which is common, they often simply quit the market, contributing to the volatility.
The cryptocurrency market is still relatively new, and it’s certainly possible that, in the future, crypto can become more of an investment and less of a speculation. In fact, Congress is actively considering ways to regulate the cryptocurrency market. But for now, caveat emptor — “let the buyer beware.”
Michael Christodoulou, ChFC®, AAMS®, CRPC®, CRPS® is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Stony Brook. Member SIPC.
TINKER TIME
The 5th annual Maker Faire Long Island heads to Port Jefferson Village on June 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. File photo by Kyle Barr/TBR News Media
Thursday, June 9
Look Book Luncheon
Grab your fanciest hat and get off to the races! Mint Clothing Boutique will be celebrating the release of their first private line of designs at a Belmont Stakes themed Look Book Luncheon at the Three Village Inn, 150 Main St., Stony Brook from noon to 3 p.m. As guests enjoy their al fresco lunch, models will stroll through the gardens wearing the private line’s breathable, sustainable and easy-to-wear styles. Tickets for this event are $35 per person and include a three-course prix fix lunch. Rain date is June 10. To reserve your seat, call 751-0555.
Cooking at the SHS
The Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown kicks off a new cooking series featuring local culinary pros sharing tips, techniques, and a taste to bring the community together – in front of the Roseneath Cottage from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Myra Naseem ofElegant Eating and Nancy Vallarella of Long Island Locavore will put together three themed boards/platters just in time for summer entertaining. Tickets are $20 per person in advance at Eventbrite.com, $30 at the door (cash or check). Questions? Call 265-6768.
Friday, June 10
CSHL lecture
Tony Zador
Got Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the brain? AI can be used in many fields, but plays a fascinating new role in neuroscience research. Hear Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) Professor Tony Zador delve deep into the ever-evolving world of AI during a webinar at noon. Learn how curiosity-driven research can help revolutionize people’s daily lives and the role that CSHL is playing to make advances in this exciting field. This 45-minute lecture will conclude with a live Q&A session with Professor Zador. Register via Eventbrite. Call 516-367-6866 for further information.
Hallockville Spring Tea
The Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead will host a SpringTea at 1 p.m. Enjoy the timeless tradition of afternoon tea in the historic Naugles Barn. This annual fundraiser will feature an assortment of delicious savory and sweet finger foods, assorted teas, a presentation by herbal educator April Alexander, and raffles. $45 per person. To register, call 298-5292 or visit www.hallockville.org.
Pride at the Farm
Celebrate Pride and your freedom to love with your friends and family as the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, Yaphank presents a Pride at the Farm event from 4 to 7 p.m. Visit with farm animals, take a wagon ride around the fields, with fun crafts, music and dancing, rainbow treats, Drag Queen Story Hour, and more! Free. Call 852-4600 for more info.
Saturday, June 11
Greenway Trail cleanup
Join the Three Village Community Trust’s Friends of the Greenway for a clean-up at the Port Jefferson Station trail head at the Route 112 parking lot (next to 7-Eleven) starting at 9 a.m.
Community Yard Sale
St. Thomas of Canterbury, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown will host a Community Yard Sale today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come shop for treasures! Call 265-4520.
Rocky Point Garden Tour
The Rocky Point Civic Association hosts its annual Garden Tour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m Tourthe gardens of seven local homes and the garden at the historic Hallock House. Held rain or shine. Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased at Flowers on Broadway, Heritage Paint, Gings Nursery or at www.rpcivic.org.
Community Yard Sale
Commack United Methodist Church, 486 Townline Road, Commack will hold a Community Yard Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Featuring vendors with both old and new merchandise, antiques, jewelry, crafts, food, music, toys, bikes, books, clothing, housewares, art work and much more. The Thrift Shoppe will also be open. Held rain or shine. Call 499-7310 for more information.
Second Saturdays Poetry
The Second Saturdays poetry series continues at All Souls Church in Stony Brook via Zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. Hosted by Suffolk County Poet Laureate Richard Bronson, the featured poet will be Maya Dreamwalker. An open-reading will follow. Access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/ Call 655-7798.
Art in Bloom
Join the Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington for its third annual Art in Bloom event today and June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Art in Bloom combines art and nature through 12 stunning floral arrangements designed by the North Country Garden Club; North Suffolk Garden Club; South Side Garden Club; and Three Harbors Garden Club and inspired by the artwork of two current exhibitions: Global Asias: Asian and Asian American Art and Moonstruck: Lunar Art from the Collection. Suggested donation of $5 children free. Visit www.heckscher.org or call 380-3230.
Maker Faire Long Island
It’s back! After a two-year hiatus, the 5th annual Maker Faire Long Island returns to the Long Island Explorium, Port Jefferson Village Center, and Harbofront Park, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come celebrate creativity and innovation in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math with over 100 makers of all ages with hands-on exhibits and performances. Tickets are $12 at Eventbrite, $15 at the door. Call 331-3277 for further details.
Author Talk
Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook welcomes folklorist Nancy Solomon, the executive director of Long Island Traditions, who will talk about her new book, Boat Building and Boat Yards of Long Island: A Tribute to Tradition, at 10:15 a.m. Solomonwill share the stories she collected from traditional boat builders and boat yard managers in the region during the late 1990s to the present day and will be joined by boat builder Chris Hale, and duck hunter/model carver George Rigby. A book signing will follow. To register, call 588-5024.
A Day on the Farm
Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket will be open today and June 12 from noon to 4 p.m. Come tour the fifteen-acre family homestead, visit with the barnyard animals, meet the new spring baby animals and ride the Big Swing. Admission is $8 adults, $6 children. Call 689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.
Old Burying Ground tour
Join the Huntington Historical Society for an Old Burying Groundwalking tour at 4 p.m. Established soon after the Town’s 1653 founding, Huntington’s earliest public burying ground features stunning folk art and beautiful epitaphs honoring Huntington’s residents and rich history. Tour begins at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main St., Huntington .Tickets are $15 adults, $5 children. For reservations, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.
Destination — Anywhere Concert
The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates Pride with “Destination – Anywhere,” a musical road trip through the songs of Sondheim, John Denver, Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash, and many more at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25; available online at ligmc.org and at the door.
Sunday, June 12
Art in Bloom
See June 11 listing.
A Day on the Farm
See June 11 listing.
Blessing of the Fleet
The Mount Sinai Yacht Club, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mt. Sinai will host the 19th annual Blessing of the Fleet at 11 a.m. All boaters are invited to assemble outside of the Mt. Sinai Harbor inlet for a fleet procession led by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and Fleet Captain Dan Diamond. The boats will proceed west passing D and C docks for a parade and blessing by Rev. Jerome J. Nedelka. A prize will be given for the best decorated boat. Call 473-2993 for more information.
St. James Art Walk
Celebrate St. James hosts an Art Walk along Lake Avenue in St. James from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stroll the historic St.James Cultural Arts District as it becomes a showcase of beautiful artwork by local painters, photographers, sculptors, jewelry makers, and more. Entertainment will include guitarist Lou Mazzaferro and singer Nick Singu. Stop by the Historic Calderone Theatre at 176 Second Street and see the Pet and Animal Art Exhibit on display Rain date is June 19. For more information, call 984-0201.
Farmingville Street Fair
The Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce will host the 10th annual Farmingville Street Fair at 1075 Portion Road between Leeds and Warren Avenues from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring hundreds of vendors offering a variety of crafts, toys, jewelry, clothing, accessories and other wares, live music, classic cars, bounce structures, beer garden, food, and more. Call 317-1738.
Country Line Dancing
Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, 178 Oxhead Road, Centereach will host an afternoon of Country Line Dancing at 1:30 p.m. with Skip and The Country Rhythms Team. All dances will be taught. Tickets are $25 per person online at www.hobbsfarm.info, $30 at the door. Includes light refreshments. Chinese auction and 50/50 raffle tickets will be available for purchase. Text 774-1556 for more information.
Sound Symphony concert
Comsewogue High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station hosts a concert by the Sound Symphony Orchestra at 2 p.m. Directed by Dorothy Savitch, the program will include works by Brahms, and Schumann. Tickets are $15, $10 seniors and students, children under 12 free. Visit www.soundsymphony.org
Art Share
The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook will present Art Share: Long Island Women Artists Through the Generations, in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 2 p.m. Join exhibition co-curator Nina Sangimino for a panel discussion with contemporary female artists Wendy Prellwitz, Mary Stubelek and Janet Culbertson. The program is free with Museum admission. Call 751-0066.
Destination — Anywhere Concert
The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates Pride with “Destination – Anywhere,” a musical road trip through the songs of Sondheim, John Denver, Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash, and many more at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25; available online at ligmc.org and at the door.
Monday, June 13
TVHS lecture
The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket continues its hybrid lecture series with Winning Votes for Women on Long Island and the Nation at 7 p.m. Guest speaker Natalie Naylor will discuss how suffrage leaders including Alva Vanderbilt Belmont, Harriot Stanton Blatch, and Rosalie Gardiner Jones secured the vote in 1917, and in 1920, the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution was ratified, extending the vote to all women in the United States. This event will be held in person and via zoom. Suggested donation. To RSVP, visit www.tvhs.org.
Tuesday, June 14
Garden Club meeting
The Three Village Garden Club welcomes prospective members to attend its monthly meeting at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main Street, Setauket at 10 a.m. The program, titled “Gardens and Environmental Protection — The Town of Brookhaven” will be presented by Nicole Pocchiare. Call 751-2743.
Sounds of the Sound
The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce presents a Port Jefferson Sunset Cruise on the Port Jefferson Ferry from 7 to 10 p.m., Featuring a live performance by Movin’ Out, the ultimate Billy Joel Tribute Band from the original Broadway hit music show. Tickets are $75 with cash bar. To order, visit www.portjeffchamber.com.
Flag Retirement Ceremony
The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket will lead a US Flag Retirement Ceremony, a fun, family friendly, interactive presentation in accordance with the United States Flag Code, at 5 p.m. Led by Holly Brainard, the event is free is and open to all. Complimentary US Flag Code booklets will be available for guests and TVHS will raffle off a new flag kit. Children and adults will learn why the flag is important and how to properly handle and dispose of the flag. Call 751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.
Wednesday, June 15
Juneteenth art show reception
The Town of Brookhaven will present aJuneteenth Art Celebration art show at Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville from June 15 to July 15. Co-sponsored by the Town of Brookhaven and the Town’s Black History Commission, the community is invited to an opening reception tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. on the second-floor mezzanine. Viewing hours will be Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 451-TOWN for more info.
Owl Prowl Wednesday
Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for an Owl Prowl from 8 to 10 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the Center’s resident owls and then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight just in case. Open to families with children ages 5and up. $15 per person. Visit www.sweetbriarnc.org to register.
Thursday, June 16
Stony Brook Village Walking Tour
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization presents a Secrets of Stony Brook Village Walking Tour at 11:50 a.m. and again at 3:50 p.m. Hear some newly uncovered stories while strolling through the picturesque village. $10 per person. Advance registration required by calling 751-2244.
Historical Walking Tour
The Huntington Historical Society presents a Historical Walking Tour titled The Centers of Controversy from 6 to 9 p.m. Led by Town of Huntington Historian, Robert C. Hughes, the tour will head east from the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building to visit sites in central Huntington that gave rise over the centuries to scandals, lawsuits, and other controversies.This tour will terminate at Six Harbors Brewing Company.$25 per person. Advance registration required by emailing [email protected] or by calling 427-7045.
Film
‘The Bungalows of Rockaway’
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington kicks off its Maritime Film Festival with a screening of The Bungalows of Rockaway on June 14 at 7:30 p.m. With enticing vintage postcards, archival photography, Marx Brothers home movies, hilarious boardwalk tales, personal accounts recounted by bungalow residents and Rockawayans alike, all grounded by historians, the film brings viewers close to the highs and lows of a large, thriving, affordable, urban seaside resort. Followed by a Q&A with co-producer Elizabeth Harris. Tickets are $17, $12 members. Call 423-7610 or visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Theater
‘Mamma Mia!’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson closes its 2021-2022 with Mamma Mia! from May 21 to June 25. ABBA’s timeless hits tell the enchanting story! On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the Greek island paradise they last visited twenty years ago. Featuring such chart toppers as “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!,” and “Dancing Queen,” this is a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget. Contains adult themes and situations. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and older. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Much Ado About Nothing’
The Carriage House Players continues its annual Shakespeare Festival at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport with Much Ado About Nothing from June 5 to June 26 on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 7 p.m. Performances take place outdoors on stage in the courtyard, where the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture adds a touch of timeless charm and magic. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy before the show and bring your own lawn chair. Inclement weather cancels. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children ages 12 and under. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
‘Kinky Boots’
John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Kinky Boots from May 19 to July 3. With songs by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein, this dazzling, sassy and uplifting musical celebrates a joyous story, inspired by true life events, taking you from the factory floor of a men’s shoe factory to the glamorous catwalks of Milan! Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Mikado’
The Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island presents The Mikado: A Long Island Fantasy at Suffolk Y/JCC, 74 Hauppauge Road in Commack on June 17 at 8 p.m. Admission is $30, seniors and students $25. For further information, call 516-619-7415 or visit www.gaslocoli.org. See more on page B24.
Vendors Wanted
◆ The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River has vendor opportunities available for its upcoming outdoor Farmer’s Markets on June 18,July 16, Aug. 20 and Sept.17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 631-929-3500 x708 for an application.
◆ St. Thomas of Canterbury, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown seeks craft or new merchandise vendors for its Craft Fair and Car Show on Oct. 8 (rain date is Oct. 15 for craft fair only). Visit www.stthomasofcanterbury.net or call 631-265-4520 to obtain an application or get more info.
◆ The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor seeks glass enthusiasts (both sea glass and historic glass) and vendors to be a part of it Suffolk County Seaglass Festival on Aug. 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee for vendor participation is $50 and entitles you to a 72” banquet table for displaying your items. Visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org for an application or call 631-367-3418.
Tom Cruise as test pilot Captain Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures
Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel
In 1986, 24-year-old, pre-couch-jumping Tom Cruise was featured in a string of high-profile films: The Outsiders (1983), Risky Business (1983), All the Right Moves (1983), and Legend (1985). Poised for a breakthrough, his performance as rebellious Naval Aviator Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in Top Gun secured his stardom. The highest-grossing film of the year, it made over 350 million dollars worldwide.
Many critics found little to love outside of the aerial dynamics, but it became a pop culture hit, winning the Academy Award for Best Song, “Take My Breath Away” (music by Giorgio Moroder; lyrics by Tom Whitlock). Inspired by Ehud Yonay’s article “Top Guns,” the film’s screenplay (by Jim Cash and Jack Epps, Jr.) combined endless flight jargon with dialogue lifted from the lesser After School specials.
Peppered with clichés like “he’s a wild card” and “it’s not your flying, it’s your attitude,” the film lacked depth, subtlety, and even basic tension. The insufferably smarmy Maverick is not so much a character but the smirk of one. Outside of one “steamy” scene between Cruise and co-star Kelly McGillis, the homoerotic movie is populated by men in towels talking about the need to shower. Both misogynistic and juvenile, Top Gun made Risky Business seem emotionally sophisticated.
As early as 2010, a Top Sequel was in development. Finally, after years of delays, Top Gun: Maverick arrives 36 years after the original’s release. Instead of a clumsy sequel, the creators have forged a smart, entertaining, well-made film that is visually stunning. If the screenplay (by Ehren Kruger, Eric Warren Singer, and Christopher McQuarrie) is not exactly Citizen Kane, the storytelling is defined. The characters are simply drawn but true to the situation. There is an honesty and a general earnestness that harkens back to the better war movies of the 1940s. Joseph Kosinski has directed his actors to play the characters straight down the middle. There are not a lot of surprises, but the can-do spirit works.
Cruise’s Maverick is a much-decorated pilot but still a captain. For every commendation he has received, overstepping has prevented him from receiving a promotion. While his skills are never in doubt, his problematic behavior towards authority has not so much stalled his career but buried it. At the end of the first film, Maverick requested a position as a Top Gun trainer. He reveals that he only lasted two months.
The older Maverick is low-key but still rebellious, rankling his superiors. Rear Admiral Chester “Hammer” Cain (Ed Harris) tells him, “The future is coming. And you’re not in it.”
Maverick’s formal rival, “Iceman” (Val Kilmer), now commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, has called Maverick back to Top Gun. (Except for Cruise, Kilmer is the only holdover from the first film. He has a single scene where he mostly communicates by typing as the admiral has throat cancer.) The mission is to take out a rogue state’s uranium enrichment plant before it opens. Surface-to-air missiles and skilled fighter pilots protect the canyon. The only way to bomb the plant is to literally fly under the radar in a demanding, dangerous mission.
Vice Admiral Beau “Cyclone” Simpson (John Hamm) and Rear Admiral Solomon “Warlock” Bates (Charles Parnell) have gathered an elite group of fighter pilots for Maverick to train.
The plot is simple, with the sole complication that one of the pilots, Lt. Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw, is the son of Maverick’s former radar intercept officer and best friend, Nick “Goose” Bradshaw (Anthony Edwards in Top Gun). While cleared of the responsibility for his pal’s death, Maverick still carries guilt, and he reveals that at the request of Goose’s widow (now dead—Meg Ryan in the earlier film), he has done everything to prevent Rooster from flying. Eventually, Maverick and Rooster come to terms with their joined histories.
A minor romantic subplot involves Maverick and a bar owner, Penny Benjamin (Jennifer Connelly), but it generates little heat or interest.
The film’s two driving forces are Cruise and the mission. Both Cruise and Maverick have aged well, and the general lack of arrogance makes for a watchable experience. As the writing is focused, the technical details are clear. The actors lean into the physical demands and challenges of the flying and the mantra that “It’s not the plane. It’s the pilot.” The cavalier comment in Top Gun—“A need for speed”—here actually makes sense. Everything builds up to a spectacular final act, with the operation beautifully orchestrated with the right amount of suspense and a couple of twists that help keep it interesting. The faceless, but ominous enemy, is smartly handled.
Top Gun: Maverick’s major song, Lady Gaga’s “Hold My Hand,” plays over the credits. It is an appropriate metaphor for the film. A bit schmaltzy but also effective, honest, and wholly satisfying.
Rated PG-13, the film is now playing in local theaters.
From left, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker and Mount Sinai Miller Place Chamber of Commerce President Holly Bottiglieri reviewing Suffolk County Small Business Website Hub. Photo from Leg. Anker's office
Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker and Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone announced the launch of a new website, www.suffolkcountyny.gov/BusinessHub, dedicated to assisting local small businesses and startups. The website, which was developed after the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously passed a resolution sponsored by Legislator Anker, will serve as the county’s center for business development needs and services by providing important information regarding how to start a business, what county, state and federal assistance and pandemic relief programs are available for businesses owners, and resources to help established businesses innovate and grow.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has created incredible challenges for small business, and while large corporations have received substantial government support, our small businesses have not been given as many opportunities. This website hub will help to provide our local businesses with easy access to helpful resources including, grant and loan opportunities, potential funding sources, business administration information, small business related rules and regulations, relevant government department contacts, and COVID-19 related guidance information,” said Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker. “I would like to thank Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone for his support, and the Suffolk County Departments of Economic Development and Planning, and Information Technology for their work in developing and launching this much needed resource.”
“As we enter our new normal, we are working to build back stronger than ever and this website will allow us to provide the resources needed to ensure our local small businesses thrive,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “The hub will create a more collaborative effort with local small businesses and will help raise awareness of the many resources available to them.”
In addition to the website hub, the county is developing an Office of Business Development, which will serve to assist business owners with coordinating the various permitting processes required by the Suffolk County Departments of Health Services and Public Works, and if applicable, the New York State Department of Conservation and any other state, federal or local agencies.
“The Suffolk County Office of Business Development is truly a “one-stop website” that contains a wealth of information for individuals who are seeking to start or grow a business,” said Holly Bottiglieri, President of the Mt. Sinai-Miller Place Chamber of Commerce. “It provides valuable tools to aid in making educated decisions that include, choosing an industry to open a business, online workshops and all of the logistics to help new and seasoned businesses obtain accurate information to move forward in their business development process”.
The site will also offer an opportunity for local businesses to participate in Suffolk County’s procurement of services and goods. Local businesses will have the ability to more easily access and sign up for county bids and requests for proposals. This includes an emphasis on Minority- and Women- owned Business Enterprises (MWBE), as well as Veteran-owned businesses.
The website hub expands on the work of the county’s Business Recovery Unit (BRU), which County Executive Bellone launched in March of 2020 to serve as a one-stop-shop for businesses in Suffolk County that are looking for pandemic-related assistance. The unit consists of a comprehensive webpage, www.suffolkcountyny.gov/BRU, that continues to be updated with critical resources for businesses, and can be found under the “Pandemic Relief” tab on the new Business Hub website. In addition to the website, residents looking to be connected to the unit can call 311 or email [email protected].
SCPD 6th Precinct Officer Angelica Nebel with brother and sister Samson and Delilah.
Photo from Town of Smithtown
The Town of Smithtown Animal Shelter partnered with the Suffolk County Police in the first Adopt with a Cop initiative, a new program where local law enforcement interact with rescue animals to help find deserving pets fur-ever homes. The Adopt with a Cop program is designed to promote shelter adoptions utilizing the Suffolk County Police Department’s vast social media fanbase. On Wednesday, May 25th, Sixth Precinct Police Officer Angelica Nebel reunited with familiar furry friends, met some new ones and had a few laughs with her very proud former colleagues. Officer Angelica Nebel worked for the Smithtown Animal Shelter as a kennel attendant just prior to enrolling in the police academy.
“This is an excellent program and I could not be happier that the SCPD chose our Smithtown Animal Shelter as their first Adopt with a Cop location. Between Instagram and Facebook, the SCPD boasts over 150,000 followers. Sharing our rescue pups, cats and rooster with this fanbase is critical in expanding the reach and possibly finding the perfect home for some of the most incredible creatures you will ever meet.” – Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo
SCPD 6th Precinct Officer Angelica Nebel got a chance to meet and play with brother and sister Samson and Delilah, who were dumped on the grounds of the Kings Park Psychiatric Center after their owner died. Together, with help from Suffolk County Police Department, the Smithtown Animal Shelter hopes to find them a forever home together. However, if the right situation presents itself, both pups may be adopted separately.
The Suffolk County Police Department highlighted an additional two dogs, two cats and a rooster as part of the adoption campaign.
Linx, a 2-3 year old well-mannered, housebroken German Shepherd, came to the shelter as a stray and requires a home with a strong alpha leader to meet his physical and mental stimulation needs.
The longest shelter resident Angel, who has spent almost half of her 8 years of life at the shelter, needs a home where she can be the only pet and with older human siblings.
Feline friends Chloe and Zendaya are two very special cats who are looking for families to care for them and their medical conditions, seizures and feline leukemia, respectively.
King James is a stunning black (hamburg) rooster who is new to the shelter. This dapper gentleman would love a home with some new friends.
To learn more about these and many other loving rescues up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter, please visit TownOfSmithtownAnimalShelter.com or call 631-360-7575.
More than 60 companies from the university’s incubation system in the areas of biotechnology, energy, IT and food will be on-hand to provide attendees the opportunity to speak with the SBU entrepreneurs and network with business owners, financiers and investors. Please find the list of companies here.
“The showcase celebrates the entrepreneurial culture built at the university and the individual success of each company at every phase,” said Peter Donnelly, Associate Vice President for Technology Partnerships. “Investors, government officials, attorneys, business services professionals, and the public can meet with Stony Brook incubator companies’ leadership to see first-hand the technologies these entrepreneurs are bringing to the marketplace.”
This event is a joint effort by Stony Brook University’s Centers of Excellence, Centers for Advanced Technology, Long Island High Technology, CEBIP & Calverton Incubators. Directions to the CEWIT building can be found here.
On Wednesday, June 15, at 6:30 p.m. Suffolk County Legislators Rob Trotta, Manuel Esteban and Stephanie Bontempi will host an Identify Theft Prevention Seminar at the East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road,in East Northport.
Assistant District Attorneys from District Attorney Ray Tierney’s Financial Crimes Bureau will address Identity Theft from an elder abuse point of view focusing on motor vehicle theft, forged documents, insurance fraud, and other acts of identity theft.
As a former Suffolk County Detective, I know first-hand how devastating identity theft can be for our seniors and that they are reluctant targets of such crimes,” said Legislator Trotta. “I encourage everyone to attend as anyone can be an unwilling victim,” Trotta added.
“Anyone can be the victim of ID theft, especially someone who is not equipped with preventive strategies. Hearing from and engaging with ID theft prevention experts is a fantastic way to avoid becoming a victim,” said Legislator Stephanie Bontempi.
Legislator Manuel Esteban Sr. said, “It is my pleasure to partner on another important community program to help our residents.”
The event is free and open to all. The library will be taking reservations via phone at (631) 261-2313 or through its website at https://www.nenpl.org/
Composer, arranger Hong blends classical, modern jazz big band and Traditional Korean music
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook, will be welcoming the Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra on June 17 for one performance only at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.thejazzloft.org. The concert is part of the Olivia & Harlan Fischer Concert Series.
Hyeseon Hong (hay-son · hong) is a Korean jazz composer and arranger who has been working
in both New York City and Seoul for many years. In 2017 she released EE-YA-GI (translated “Stories”), on the Summit record label featuring her original compositions and arrangements. Hong’s music creates a dialog between her Korean cultural heritage and the culture of the west.
“We are certainly in for an exceptional jazz experience,” said Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel. “I’m also pleased that the Jazz Loft can offer this unique opportunity to hear one the leading female jazz band leaders perform original works. I know it will be a memorable musical experience.”
“I am thrilled to have an opportunity to bring my jazz orchestra to the Jazz Loft to premiere some of my new work with some brilliant musicians, Hong said. “Through my music, I will tell the audience stories of women, Korean culture and travel adventures.”
Here is what others have said about the Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra:
“The best from East and West in a combination wholly unique – beautiful, musical, superb
ensemble work”– Grady Harp
“Exhibiting an insatiable appetite for jazz-fusion, Ms. Hong proves to be a talented orchestrator and musical thinker who is not afraid to risk while crossing genre boundaries.”– Jazz Trail
“She successfully mixes elements of classical music, modern big band jazz and traditional
Korean music to create a compelling and rich tapestry of sound.”–UK Vibe
Hong will be performing with her band, featuring The band will feature:saxes: Ben Kono, Alejandro Aviles, Rich Perry, Jeremy Powell, Lauren Sevian, Trumpets: Ben Hankle, David Smith, Colin Brigstocke, Jonathan Saraga, Trombones: Mike Fahie, Daniel Linden, Greg DeAngelis, Becca Patterson, Rhythm Section: Broc Hempel, Matt Panayides, Evan Gregor and Jeff Davis Vocalist: EJ Park.
Hyeseon Hong (hay-son · hong) is a Korean jazz composer and arranger who has been working in both NYC and Seoul for many years. In 2017 she released EE-YA-GI, on the Summit record label featuring her original compositions and arrangements. Her music creates a dialog between her Korean cultural heritage and the culture of the west. This theme is the centerpiece of the Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra, in which Hong blends elements of classical music, modern jazz big band, and Korean traditional music to create a sound that is at once familiar yet original. Her compelling compositions feature beautiful melodies with harmonically-rich, impressionistic backgrounds. Korean art is characterized by harmony with nature. Hong, who spent many years studying art in her native Seoul, approaches each composition with the eye of a painter, using Korean rhythms and memorable melodies to create inviting sonic pictures of the natural world.
The Jazz Loft is located just 90 minutes from New York City and is the only music venue on Long Island that features exclusively jazz music.
Fathom Events presents a special screening of six of the most memorable episodes of ‘The Golden Girls’
Fathom Events has announced the return of the Emmy Award-winning television sitcom, “The Golden Girls,” to select theaters nationwide for the second consecutive year. “Forever Golden! A Celebration of the Golden Girls” hits movie theaters for two nights: Tuesdays June 7 and 14.
The series stars Bea Arthur (Dorothy Zbornak), Betty White (Rose Nylund), Rue McClanahan (Blanche Devereaux), and Estelle Getty (Sophia Petrillo) as four women in their golden years who share both a home and a friendship in Miami, Florida. This special event will feature some of the most memorable episodes from the series.
“We’re excited to bring this beloved show back to the big screen this summer,’” said Ray Nutt, Fathom Events CEO. “The storyline and the friendships between these very different women have stood the test of time. Fans love it just as much now as they did when it first aired on television back in the 80’s.”
This must-see, two-night event will feature episodes including:
The Competition, Season 1, Episode 7: In a bowling competition, it’s Dorothy and Blanche verses Rose and Sophia. If Sophia and Rose win, Dorothy will allow Sophia to go back to Sicily for a visit with an old beau and if Dorothy and Blanche win Sophia will give her a pair of antique earrings.
It’s a Miserable Life, Season Two, Episode 4: The girls circulate a petition to save a 200-year-old oak tree which is located on the property of the most hated woman in the neighborhood, Frieda Claxton, who wants the tree cut down.
The Sisters, Season 2, Episode 12: For Sophia’s birthday, Dorothy flies in her sister, Angela from Sicily as a surprise. However, Dorothy’s the one who’s surprised when Sophia’s reaction is that of disgust.
Scared Straight, Season 4, Episode 9: Blanche’s brother, Clayton comes to Miami for a visit and Blanche goes all out fixing him up on blind dates. However, Rose learns the truth, Clayton is gay and is afraid to tell Blanche the truth about himself.
Sisters of the Bride, Season 6, Episode 14: Blanche’s gay brother Clayton, makes a visit to Miami with a surprise, he has found the right person to make a commitment to, but Blanche still can’t get over Clayton’s sexual orientation. Meanwhile, Rose expects to win a Volunteer of the Year award.
The Case of the Libertine Belle, Season 7, Episode 2: The girls participate in a murder mystery weekend and Dorothy has a ball when she solves a mystery. However, when Blanche is accused committing a real murder, Dorothy will have to use all her keen detective skills to find the real murderer.
“The Golden Girls” premiered in September 1985 and delighted fans over 7 seasons and 180 half-hour episodes. The series follows Miami homeowner Blanche Devereaux, joined by Rose Nylund and Dorothy Zbornak, brought together by a fateful ad for roommates posted by Blanche in a grocery store. The three are joined by Dorothy’s mother, Sophia Petrillo, a feisty Sicilian woman who rounds out the fabulous foursome. Together, the women form the perfect circle of friends.
“Forever Golden! A Celebration of the Golden Girls” will play in movie theaters on Tuesday, June 7 and Tuesday, June 14 at 7 p.m. (all times local). Locally the film will be screened at Regal Deer Park 16, 455 Commack Road, Deer Park; Island 16 Cinema de Lux, 185 Morris Ave., Holtsville; and Farmingdale Multiplex, 1001 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale. A complete list of theater locations is available on the Fathom Events website can be purchased online at www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theater box offices.
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