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From left, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Korneich, Nancy Goroff, Amani Kahn, Maria Nardiello, and Trust President Peter Legakis. Photo by Gretchen Oldrin Mones

Awards, recognition and special proclamations went to Nancy Goroff, Amani Kahn and Maria Nardiello at the Three Village Community Trust’s Annual Membership Meeting on March 12. The trust expressed a deep appreciation of the honoree’s unique contributions to the community: 

Maria Nardiello was recognized for her special role in the life of Three Villages and community affairs:

● Long time innkeeper and resident manager of the Setauket Neighborhood House.

● 25 years of providing welcoming and friendly hospitality and service to the Three Village Community. 

● Over the years, her friendly professionalism has made the Neighborhood House the place for all community events.

● Providing a welcoming meeting place for all residents

● An enthusiastic booster of our Three Village community

● Always ready to assist in planning family and community events at the Setauket Neighborhood House

● Widely known as a caring, gracious, calming voice in every interaction with residents

● A steady, dependable and welcoming presence at the Neighborhood House 

● A very likely ‘person of history’ in the story of the Three Villages for her remarkable role at the Inn  

Amani Khan was honored for her help and support to the residents of Council District 1:

● Longtime senior Legislative Aide for Council District 1

● A beloved and respected staff member at the Town and to the entire District 1 community 

● Known for her outstanding, dependable and efficient constituent service

● Recognized for her ability to easily navigate the complexities of the town’s many different offices, departments, codes and regulations

● Acknowledged as an expert in all issues impacting the Three Village community

● Engaged in all issues of the Three Village community and the surrounding area

● Well-known to residents for her honesty, integrity and steadiness in all things ‘Brookhaven’

● An unrivaled ability to use grace and understanding in all situations and at all times

Nancy Goroff was recognized for her advancements in education, art, culture  and science: 

● President of the Board of Gallery North, the largest non-profit art gallery on Long Island

● Treasurer and Co-Founder, Long Island Strong Schools Alliances 

● Founding Board Member of the Institute for Digital Media and Child Development

● Past Chair of the Chemistry Department at Stony Brook University – a recognized leader in chemistry, materials science, and higher education. 

● Gifted public servant with a track record of accomplishment as a leader, scientist and communicator. 

● A history of building and managing diverse teams in a variety of disciplines. Demonstrating a longstanding commitment to community service and nonprofit organizations. 

● Lifelong advocate for good government

● Outspoken leader in civic affairs  

● A champion of rights for woman, children and the underserved and disenfranchised

● A fierce defender of the principles of fairness and compassion for all.

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Cash

Welcome to the 39th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home

Camila

 

Meet Camila

With a name associated with grace, beauty, and strength, meet Camila, a twelve(+) year old Chihuahua mix waiting at Little Shelter in Huntington for her soulmate. As often happens, with age comes wisdom, and this clever little lady knows her best days are still ahead of her. Initially shy and demure, it doesn’t take long before she settles into your lap for a chat and perhaps a quick nap, making herself right at home. Dainty, darling, and the dearest friend you could ask for, Camila is now ready to find her forever home. Will you be the lucky one to welcome her into your family? 631-368-8770

“A Chihuahua’s loyalty is as grand as its heart … small in size, but limitless in depth.”

*Camila is not completely housebroken*

Daisy

Meet Daisy

Symbolizing cheerfulness and new beginnings, meet Daisy, a ten-year-old Mini Golden Doodle up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Fresh faced and free spirited, she radiates happiness, greeting each new acquaintance as another possible friend. Striking just the right balance between being active enough to maintain her girlish figure, while also easy going, so as not to jeopardize a good hair day, she would fit well into most family situations. You’ll want to stop by soon…a flower like Daisy is full of promise and would be the most adorable scene stealer on your holiday card! 631-368-8770

“A dog wags its tail with its heart.”

*Daisy is mostly housebroken and is good with dogs and cats.

Cash

Meet Cash

This 5 1/2-year-old brown lab mix has been at Save A Pet in Port Jefferson Station for over 1,400 days now. That is heartbreaking.

For almost four years, Cash has woken up in the same kennel, listening to the sounds of footsteps of potential adopters passing him by. He watches other dogs leave, tails wagging, excited for their new lives. But no one ever comes for him — he is officially growing old in the shelter. No dog should spend this long waiting. No dog should feel this forgotten. Cash doesn’t know what it’s like to have a home, a soft bed, or a person who loves him unconditionally. All he knows is waiting. 

He loves other dogs, women, but needs time to warm up to men. He also needs a home without small children.

Somewhere out there is his new best friend. Could that be you? 631-473-6333

Bailey

Meet Bailey

Bailey is a spirited and playful shepherd mix at the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter. At just around 2-years-old, she’s already faced more challenges than most, having been born with genetic malformations. Despite these hurdles, Bailey remains an incredibly happy and affectionate dog, blissfully unaware of her mobility issues. She will require lifelong care which include issues with her spine and dysplastic hips, as well as ongoing management for a mild heart murmur. Her future will involve regular check-ups and possibly some special accommodations, including softer food and careful handling. 631-451-6955

Tomi and Sprinkles

Meet Tomi and Sprinkles

These two lovely ladies arrived at the Smithtown Animal Shelter a month ago when their mom fell on hard times. At four years old, they have lived a life full of love and are looking for a nice, quiet home that will continue to show them that they are valued and adored. These sisters have always been together and rely on each other so it would be nice to have them adopted out together. Call 631-360-7575 to set up a meet and greet.

———————————–

‘Senior Spring Fling’

Did you know? For the entire month of April, the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, 300 Horseblock Road, Yaphank is waiving all adoption fees for all seniors pets (5 years old or older). The shelter is also offering free adoptions for ALL the pets for Easter Week — April 21 to April 25 — because everyone deserves a chance to find their forever home. Spread the word and help these sweet animals find their happily ever after! Donations of blankets are also appreciated. 631-451-6955

Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of April 17.

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

 

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Turbulence, one of many rides at Adventureland. Photo from Adventureland

Get a head start on your Spring fun this weekend! Adventureland in Farmingdale is gearing up for an exciting expansion with its 2025 Season which kicks off this weekend on March 22 and 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. As it begins its new season, Adventureland remains as popular as ever as a top tourist destination as recognized by Discover Long Island which just released a new video featuring the theme park as part of their Long Island Where You Belong campaign https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaNrGavMvfc

New ride Wave Twister will open later this spring. Photo from Adventureland

Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, is offering more value this year, and for the same ticket prices as last year. Earlier this year, the park announced it is freezing its admission rates, group rates, season pass rates, and birthday party rates at the same prices from the 2024 season.

“At a time when everything around us is going up, we are proud and excited to be able to provide our guests this price freeze on admission,” said Jeanine Gentile, Adventureland Park Manager. “We are still making additions to the park, so you will definitely see some great changes for this upcoming season. But one thing that will not be changing is the admission prices for the 2025 season!”

Moon Chaser is one of the newest rides visitors can enjoy. Photo from Adventureland

The price freeze is not the only exciting news from Adventureland. For the first time, the amusement park is offering payment plans through FlexPay for online orders of $100 or more. This brand-new option will allow visitors to book tickets and purchase season passes online—now—and conveniently pay over time. Daily tickets and season passes are currently available for purchase online at https://adventureland.us/?keyword=Tickets

Last year, Adventureland announced plans for a multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment. Now currently in phase 2, the amusement park promises a ‘Bigger and Better’ 2025 season, which includes two new outdoor games: ‘Wave Blaster’ and ‘Jungle Run.’ Additionally, plans are in place to install three new concession stands and a third restroom facility. Especially exciting is the highly-anticipated new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ scheduled to open later this spring.

Adventureland is located at 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale. For more information, call 631-694-6868 or visit Adventureland.us.

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Stock photo

By Britt Burner, Esq. & Brittni Sullivan, Esq.

The biggest concern that most have when they are in need of long-term nursing home care is that their primary residence will not be protected. This may or may not be true.  There are special rules surrounding the home that are different than other types of assets. 

To understand this fear, it is important to understand how one becomes eligible for Medicaid to assist with nursing home costs.  The applicant is permitted to have countable assets in the amount of $32,396, retirement assets in any amount so long as the retirement account is set up for a monthly distribution, and a pre-paid irrevocable burial.  

Applying for this program also involves a five-year lookback. This requires the applicant and spouse to provide full financial disclosure for the five-year period immediately prior to institutionalization. The purpose of the lookback is to see if the applicant or spouse transferred any assets out of their names.  If transfers were made, there will be a legal presumption that this was done for the purpose of applying for Medicaid, and a penalty will be assessed. The penalty will result in a time of ineligibility for services. 

However, there are certain transfers that are exempt and will not draw a penalty, this includes transfers of any assets to a spouse or to a blind or disabled child.  Specifically for the primary residence, transfers are exempt when made to a spouse, blind or disabled child of the applicant, a sibling with an equity interest in the home, or to a caretaker child. 

A caretaker child is defined as a child who has resided in the primary residence with the Medicaid applicant for the two years immediately prior to institutionalization and who, during that time has provided some level of care support to the individual who requires nursing home care.  Medicaid will closely scrutinize the transfer and ask for supporting documentation to prove residency for the caretaker child.  

For several reasons, this type of planning is best used in crisis planning and is not an advanced planning technique. First, there may be adverse tax consequences when you transfer the real property to the caretaker child.  Second, transfer to the caretaker child could thwart your estate plan to leave assets to multiple beneficiaries. Last, the transfer to the caretaker child can only happen immediately prior to your institutionalization.  Therefore, if the child is moved out at the time you require nursing home care, the exemption is lost.  

The fear of losing the home is common. Planning in advance can help ensure the primary residence is protected.

Britt Burner, Esq., Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., concentrates her practice in Estate Planning and Elder Law. Brittni Sullivan, Esq., Senior Associate at the firm, also focuses on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Burner Prudenti Law serves clients from Manhattan to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, New York City and East Hampton.

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Sal Filosa and Jenny Bloom cut the ribbon for the new Teen Center at 205 Main Street on March 14. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

It’s been 10 years in the making but it was all worth it when the doors to the new Port Jefferson Free Library Teen Center swung open after a ribbon cutting event on March 14. A large crowd, including Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, attended the celebration which continued into the evening and at an Open House on March 15. 

According to a press release, the library purchased the 1812 Bayles house at 205 East Main Street 10 years ago with plans of turning the former “Scented Cottage” store into a Teen Center which had been operating out of a rental space across the street from the library.

New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich present certificates to staff of the Port Jefferson Free Library. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

A designated “Safe Space,” the new Teen Center features “multiple small rooms offering teens the ability to browse the library’s book, video and game collections, get homework and college application help, play board and video games, access craft supplies or participate in the busy schedule of program offerings,” according to the release. The Center, which is geared for teens in grades 6-12, also features a 3-D printer, homework stations and laptop computers. 

Working with BBS Architecture and Belfor Property Restoration, the library preserved much of the building’s charm, including 5 fireplaces, a beehive oven, the front “Dutch Door,” and the original pine floors. A covered front porch was added after Kate Von der Heyden of the Port Jefferson Historical Society shared historic photos which showed a previously existing Greek Revival-style porch. Amendments include a wheelchair lift and wider doorways.

“The reputation of this institution transcends the boundaries of the village. This is a draw for kids not just in this community but all the surrounding communities. I want to thank you for putting this together and for doing it in such a sensitive way that it maintains the streetscape and the look and feel of the village; it is such a great enhancement,” said Councilmember Kornreich.

“I am so grateful to this library board, to the leadership here and to the community for having the foresight to obtain this historic building, maintain it and renovate so that it can continue to be part of the beating heart of our library system and be a safe, wonderful and fun place for the teens,” said Assemblywoman Kassay.

“… So proud to walk through these doors for the first time and see what’s inside. I want to use it! There’s a nook and cranny for everything. I’m so glad that my nieces and my nephews and their friends will be able to use it as they come through middle school into the high school … It’s an incredible facility and what a great resource for them,” said Mayor Sheprow, who went on to thank Head of Teen Services Sal Filosa and Library Director Jenny Bloom for bringing the Teen Center to fruition.

“Growing from our one-room rental space to multiple rooms with a covered porch offers a variety of spaces for teens to relax, do homework, play games, or create art. We hope they consider the Teen Center to be their new ‘home away from home,” said Filosa.

“The restoration of the Bayles House and development of the new Teen Center has been the dream of a decade of Board Trustees, Staff, and community members, and the Library is very proud to welcome the community to the grand opening, and for teens for generations to come,” added Bloom.

The Teen Center is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-509-5707.

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Stony Brook University will hold its 7th annual Giving Day on March 26.

Day Dedicated to Philanthropic Giving from Inside and Outside the University Community

On Wednesday, March 26, Stony Brook University is hosting its seventh annual Giving Day. This 24-hour crowdfunding event brings together alumni, friends, patients, parents, faculty, staff and students to support causes close to their hearts in an effort to help Stony Brook “Be Unstoppable.”

More than 130 different academic units, clubs, athletic teams, clinical departments, student enrichment programs, and other initiatives across the Stony Brook community will be positively impacted on Giving Day. A series of special matching gifts and participation challenges will multiply the impact of individuals’ donations. To inspire participation, all gifts made will be tracked in real-time on givingday.stonybrook.edu.

The university looks to surpass previous years’ results, with a goal of 3,500 unique gifts. Last year, Giving Day generated $1.6 million from 3,800 gifts. Donations have totaled $3.8 million dollars since the inaugural Giving Day in 2019. Every year, about 20% of gifts come from first-time donors.

“Giving Day is an exciting opportunity for the Stony Brook community to step forward and support the university in a big way. Every year, I am inspired by our community’s engagement, not just by their generous philanthropic contributions but also by the motivation behind their philanthropy,” said Scott Barrett, interim vice president for advancement.

“It’s remarkable to see how many people are driven by the positive impact they can make for our current students and faculty — and, frankly, for generations to come. I look forward to celebrating that impact again this year,” he said.

For those seeking to make social media postings regarding Giving Day, the hashtags for this year’s Giving Day are #SBUGivingDay and #BeUnstoppable.

For more information, visit givingday.stonybrook.edu.

 

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Avocado, Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad

By Heidi Sutton

It’s no secret that adding greens to your menu — morning, noon and night — can go a long way toward healthier eating habits. 

While most people think of lettuce, kale, spinach, cucumbers and Brussels sprouts, don’t forget avocados are a superfruit you can use to add good fats and great taste to recipes throughout the day. 

Avocados provide a good source of naturally unsaturated fats, and are also a good source of fiber

If you’re looking for an easy yet tasty way to add more avocados to your family’s menu, these recipes for Avocado, Brussels Sprout, Kale and Date Salad and Fresh Guacomole Salad provide a delicious introduction to the superfruit, courtesy of Family Features.

Avocado, Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad

Avocado, Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

Dressing

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

4 dates pitted, softened

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1/4 cup olive oil

Salad:

2 avocados, sliced

6 cups Brussels sprouts shaved or shredded

3 cups lacinto dinosaur kale, shredded

1 cup red onion sliced

1/2 cup pistachios or pumpkin seeds, shelled

reduced-fat sharp Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated, for topping (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

To make dressing: In food processor, blend lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, pitted dates, mustard and add olive oil to combine.

To make salad: Combine avocados, shaved Brussels sprouts, kale, red onion and pistachios. Drizzle salad dressing over greens and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.

Fresh Guacamole Salad

Fresh Guacomole Salad

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Dressing

1 cup fresh cilantro

1 garlic clove, minced

3 tablespoons lime juice

2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon avocado oil or extra virgin    olive oil

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon honey

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper, optional

Salad

2 avocados, diced

1.5 lb. kinless chicken breast, cooked, shredded

1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup red onion, sliced

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, thinly sliced

8 cups mixed baby greens

DIRECTIONS:

To make dressing: Place all dressing ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. 

To prepare salad: In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and baby greens. Top with 4 tablespoons of the dressing and toss lightly until combined.

Serve immediately with a wedge of lime.

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Legislator Bontempi, center, visits with People's Arc of Suffolk employees and program participants at the Performing Arts Center in Northport. Photo from People's Arc of Suffolk.

People’s Arc of Suffolk was recently cited by Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi as the 2025 “Champions of Diversity” for the 18th Legislative District, for its new and innovative Performing Arts Center located in Northport. This accolade celebrates the center’s unwavering commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and cultural appreciation through the arts.

During her visit to the Performing Arts Center recently, Legislator Bontempi experienced firsthand the center’s dynamic programs that integrate arts into the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through Program Without Walls community inclusion opportunities.

Located at 51 Scudder Avenue in Northport, the People’s Arc Performing Arts Center offers a variety of programs, including TheatreAbility, MusicAbility, DanceAbility, and ARC TV, all designed to foster self-expression and community integration.

“The People’s Arc Performing Arts Center exemplifies how artistic expression can unite communities and celebrate diverse voices,” said Legislator Bontempi. “Their dedication to creating an equitable and integrated community is truly commendable.”

The official recognition ceremony will take place at the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting on April 8th at 9:30 a.m. in Riverhead.

“We’re grateful to Legislator Bontempi and her support of our programs that are truly life-changing for the people we support,” said John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk. “Demonstrating the impact of what we do is essential to securing continued support and funding from the public and private sectors.”

Their innovative services promote inclusion and self-expression, enriching the cultural fabric of the community.

About People’s Arc of Suffolk

Formerly known as AHRC Suffolk, People’s Arc of Suffolk is dedicated to creating communities where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy life to its fullest. The organization provides a wide array of services, including employment opportunities, education programs, and community engagement, all aimed at fostering an equitable and integrated community for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Follow People’s Arc of Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents a tribute to the girls of pop on Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m. If you’re a Swiftie or a Livie, this is the show for you, so come ready to sparkle, shine, and party at this family friendly experience as Julia Jewel dazzles with performances of Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo hits and learn about Julia’s music journey from American Idol Golden Ticket Winner.

As a special bonus, you’ll also get to vibe to Julia’s favs from Sabrina, Billie, Chappell and more. Live band, costume changes, shimmering lights, and great pop entertainment will get you and your friends up out of your seats dancing and singing!

Tickets are $56.50 for orchestra seating, $46.50 for the balcony.   To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

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2nd Annual Sea Glass Fiction Contest underway

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor in partnership with TBR News Media of Setauket, has announced the launch of the 2nd Annual Sea Glass Fiction Contest. This exciting competition invites students in grades 3-12 from Nassau and Suffolk counties to unleash their creativity by crafting stories inspired by a piece of sea glass chosen by the museum.

The contest challenges participants to imagine a unique journey for the selected sea glass fragment chosen by The Whaling Museum and to weave a captivating tale around it. The winning stories will have the chance to be read at the Sea Glass Festival, a prestigious event celebrating sea glass and its significance in maritime history. This year’s Sea Glass Festival will be held on Sunday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We are excited to see the imaginative stories that students will create for this contest,” said Nomi Dayan, Executive Director at The Whaling Museum. “Sea glass has a way of capturing the imagination, and we can’t wait to read the stories that come out of this unique contest.”

Entries must be submitted electronically through the submission form on The Whaling Museum’s website by April 30. The contest is free to enter, and all works must be original and written solely by the author. Only residents of Nassau and Suffolk counties are eligible to participate.

“We look forward to the opportunity to celebrate and highlight the creative tales of students in the area,” said Daniel Dunaief, a journalist with TBR News Media. “Entrants can envision ways a piece of glass, shaped by water and time, provides a clue in a compelling narrative.” 

Winners will be notified on or about June 1-7, and select winning entries will be eligible for publication in TBR News Media and on The Whaling Museum’s website. TBR will also highlight the winners on their weekly podcast, Pressroom Afterhour. In addition, contest winners will receive complimentary tickets to The Whaling Museum’s Sea Glass Festival, where they will be recognized with a certificate.

“We are grateful to TBR News Media for continuing to partner with us on this contest and helping to bring these young writers’ stories to a wider audience,” added Dayan.

For more information on the Sea Glass Fiction Contest, including guidelines and submission details, please visit cshwhalingmuseum.org/seaglasscontest.

 

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