CLOSE
Arts & Entertainment

by -
0 496
Stock photo

In response to severe blood shortages in our area, NYS Senator Mario Mattera and NYS Senator Dean Murray will sponsor a blood drive at Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove on Saturday, Feb. 8 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the center of the mall. Each donor will receive a voucher redeemable for two complimentary tickets to a select New York Islanders regular season home game at USB Arena.

“Every year, millions of people worldwide require blood transfusions. There is an urgent need for blood donations, and your contribution can help save lives!,” said Senator Murray.

Representatives from the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department will also be in attendance giving out Operation Safe Child and senior identification cards from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Questions? Call 516-310-2382.

by -
0 1044
These composite brain images from the study of WTC responders reveal evidence of amyloidosis. Areas shaded in red and yellow indicate regions of the brain with amyloid. Image courtesy of Sean Clouston, Stony Brook Medicine

By Daniel Dunaief

Even over 23 years after first responders raced to the smoldering site of the World Trade Center terrorist attacks, many emergency crews continue to battle the effects of their exposure.

With a combination of toxic aerosolized particles infusing the air, first responders who didn’t wear personal protective equipment and who had the highest degree of exposure have suffered from a range of symptoms and conditions.

Sean Clouston

In a recent study of 35 World Trade Center first responders in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, lead author Sean Clouston, who is a Professor in the Department of Family, Population and Preventive Medicine in the Renaissance School of Medicine, found evidence of amyloid plaques, which are often linked to Alzheimer’s Disease.

The paper links exposure to a neurodegenerative protein.

Research with World Trade Center first responders not only benefits those who worked tirelessly to try to find survivors and to restore the area after the attack, but also could help other people who inhale aerosolized toxins.

Indeed, such research could help those who are spending hours battling the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, which have been consuming forests and trees, homes and commercial buildings, at a furious and uncontrolled pace.

People have a feeling that fresh air is safe, but what scientists have learned from their studies of the World Trade Center first responders is that “just being six feet away from a pile of rubble that’s smoldering, even if you can’t see that it’s dangerous, doesn’t mean it isn’t,” said Clouston. “There is at least some risk” to human health from fires that spew smoke from burned computers and refrigerators, among others.

Given the variety of materials burned in the fires, Minos Kritikos, Senior Research Scientist and a member of the group in the collaborative labs of Clouston and Professor Benjamin Luft, suspects that a heterogeneity of particles were in the air.

People in Los Angeles who are inhaling these particles can have them “linger in their circulation for years,” said Kritikos. “It’s not just a neurological issue” as the body tries to deal with carrying around this “noxious” particulate matter. Since most neurons don’t regenerate, any toxicity induced neuronal death is irreversible, making damage to the brain permanent.

Even in non-emergency situations, people in polluted cities face increased health risks.

“There is a recognition that air pollution is a major preventable cause of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias, as noted by the latest Lancet Commission,” Clouston explained.

Two likely entry points

People who breathe in air containing toxic chemicals have two likely pathways through which the particulates enter the body. They can come in through the nose and, potentially, travel directly into the brain, or they can enter the lungs, circulate through the body and enter the head through the blood-brain barrier. The olfactory route is more direct, said Kritikos. 

Minos Kritikos in front of Stony Brook Hospital.

The amyloid plaques in these first responders was found primarily in the area near the nose, which supports the idea that maybe inhaling the dust was the problem, Clouston said.

Once these chemicals enter the brain, Clouston and his team believe the body engages defenses that are designed much more for viruses than for toxic compounds. The immune system can encapsulate these chemicals in amyloid plaques.

Amyloid plaques, in moderation and under conditions that protect the brain against pathogens, are a part of a protective and helpful immune response. Too much of a good thing, however, can overwhelm the brain.

“When there’s too much plaque, it can physically disturb neuronal functions and connections,” said Kritikos. “By being a big presence, they can also molecularly and chemically react with its environment.”

A large presence of amyloid can be toxically necrotic to surrounding neural tissue, Kritikos added.

What the scientists believe they are tracking is the footprint of an adaptive response that may not help the brain, Clouston added.

Clouston cautioned that the plaques and cognitive decline could both be caused by something else that scientists haven’t yet seen.

The findings

The research, which used positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans to search for evidence of amyloid plaques, found evidence that doesn’t look like old age Alzheimer’s, explained Clouston. Usually these levels of plaques are not located in one spot, but occur throughout the brain during Alzheimer’s. 

The immune response may be causing some of these plaques.

The amount of amyloid plaque doesn’t look like Alzheimer’s Disease and does not appear abnormal in the traditional way of testing, but with careful analysis of the olfactory system, the researchers can find elevated levels.

“I was surprised by how little amyloid was necessary to show this association,” said Clouston.

Researchers at Mt. Sinai have examined the effect of exposure to these same particulates in mice.

“The answer is very much similar to what we see in humans,” said Clouston. “That supports this work.”

To be sure, Clouston and Kritikos are hoping to build on this research. They are particularly interested in following up with participants to measure the rate of change in these plaques from the observed amyloid signals they measured at baseline.

“Doing so would enable us to calculate the rate of amyloid buildup allowing us to assess our responders more precisely, opening doors to possible therapeutic interventions such as the recently approved anti-amyloid therapies,” Kritikos explained. 

Additionally, they hope to expand on the study beyond the 35 people who participated.

It is unclear whether tamping down the immune system could make patients better or worse. By reducing amyloid plaques, scientists might enable the harmful dust to cause damage in other areas of the brain. Alternatively, however, a lower level immune response with fewer plaques might, in the longer term, be better for the brain.

This study “does open the door for some of those questions,” Clouston said. Kritikos and Clouston plan to study the presence of tau proteins and any signs of neurodegeneration in the brains of these first responders.

“More research needs to be done,” Clouston said, which specifically targets different ways of measuring exposure, such as through a biomarker. He’s hoping such a biomarker might be found that tracks levels of exposure.

Future research could also address whether post traumatic stress disorder affects the immune response.

“It’s certainly possible that PTSD is playing a role, but we’re not sure what that might be,” said Clouston.

The researchers are continuing this research as they study the effects of exposure on tau proteins and neurodegeneration.

“We are hopeful that this will be an important turning point for us,” Clouston explained

From the Medditerranean to the Atlantic

Born and raised in Cyprus, Kritikos comes from a large family who are passionate about spending time with each other while eating good food.

He earned his doctorate from the University of Bristol in England.

Kritikos met his wife Jennifer LoPresti Kritikos, who is originally from Shirley, New York, at a coffee shop in Aberdeen, Scotland, where he was doing postdoctoral research.

LoPresti, who works at Stony Brook as the Department Head Administrator for Biomedical Engineering, and Kritikos live in Manorville and have an eight year-old daughter Gia and one-year old son Theseus.

As for his work, Kritikos is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to research with Clouston and Luft, who is the Director of the Stony Brook WTC Health and Wellness Program.

“I’m happy to be in a position whereby our large WTC team (the size of a small village) is constantly pushing forward with our understanding for how these exposures have affected” the brain health of WTC first responders, Kritikos explained. He would like to continue to uncover mechanisms that underly these phenomena, not just for WTC responders but also for similarly exposed populations.

 

by -
0 494
Hon. Gail Prudenti

Hon. Gail Prudenti, Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C., has been appointed as the Chair of the Suffolk County Bar Association (SCBA) Judicial Screening Committee.

“This prestigious committee plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and excellence of Suffolk County’s judiciary. Tasked with the responsibility of thoroughly evaluating the background, experience, and qualifications of candidates seeking judicial office, the committee ensures that only the most qualified individuals are recommended for these essential roles,” read a press release.

Comprised of 25 distinguished members, the Judicial Screening Committee represents a cross- section of legal expertise and professional dedication. These members are carefully selected by the SCBA President and Board of Directors to uphold the committee’s commitment to impartiality and rigor in the screening process.

“Hon. Gail Prudenti’s appointment to this leadership position reflects her exceptional career and unwavering dedication to the legal profession. Her extensive experience and steadfast commitment to justice will undoubtedly contribute to the committee’s important mission,” read the release.

by -
0 516
Lawrence Martin and Patricia Wright. Photos courtesy of SBU

Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center Theater, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host the university’s February Provost Lecture, featuring distinguished anthropologists Patricia Wright and Lawrence Martin on Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Each will each give a brief lecture about their work and its significance followed by a reception with light refreshments. The lecture and reception are free and open to the public. 

See press release below for more information:

Did you know that Stony Brook University has important African research and scientific discovery centers? The Turkana Basin Institute (TBI) in Kenya and Centre ValBio in Madagascar are both university Institutes and Centers and co-founded by members of university faculty.

Two SUNY Distinguished Service Professors, Anthropology Lawrence Martin, PhD, co-founder and director emeritus of the TBI and Patricia Wright, PhD, founder and executive director of the Centre ValBio will be speaking about their centers and the impact of thir own research to the local and university community at the upcoming Provost’s Lecture Series. The series, hosted by university Provost Carl Lejuez, showcases Stony Brook faculty who have earned the rank of SUNY Distinguished faculty. The distinguished rank is the highest honor available to faculty in the State University of New York 64-campus system.

About Lawrence Martin: Professor Martin is an expert on the evolution of apes and the origin of humans. He worked with the late world-renowned paleoanthropologist and conservationist Richard Leakey to build a bastion for research on human evolution, Stony Brook’s Turkana Basin Institute, which he directed for 17 years

About Patricia Wright:  Professor Wright founded Centre ValBio, the modern research campus in the rainforest of Madagascar where she has combined her research with efforts to preserve the country’s endangered forests and the many species of plants and animals they harbor. She was the driving force behind the creation of Ranomafana National Park, a 106,000-acre World Heritage Site there, which is home to many endangered species, including several species of lemur that she works to save from extinction.

WHEN

Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 3:30 – 5 p.m., ET (reception to follow lecture)

WHERE

Wang Center Theater, West Campus, Stony Brook University directions

by -
0 715

By Heidi Sutton

Candy, flowers, heart-shaped notes — what’s not to like about Valentine’s Day? This sweet celebration, which happens every year on February 14, is all about spreading the love. Still don’t have plans for this special day? Check out these 14 events happening right in our own backyard. See more Valentine’s Day related events in next week’s TIMES … and dates.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a screening of ‘Casablanca’ at the Cinema Arts Centre.

1. ‘Casablanca’ at the CAC

“Of all the gin joints, in all the towns, 

in all the world, she walks into mine.“ 

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington invites all lovebirds and lonelyhearts to spend Valentine’s Day with them revisiting a classic, Casablanca, on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, $15 members and includes complimentary sweets. To order tickets in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

2. An evening of jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook presents “Here’s to the Ladies!” a special Valentine’s Day concert featuring The Jazz Loft All Stars playing tunes honoring the women of Jazz on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. The venue will supply the live jazz music, a glass of champagne and chocolate. You supply the romance. Tickets are $50. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

3. HeARTS for ART

Fall in love with art at the HeARTS for ART Valentine’s Day event at the Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington on Feb. 14 from noon to 5 p.m. Fall in love with a work of art and place a heart in front of your favorite work of art for all to see/ Then post your pick on social media with #heartsforart. Free with museum admission. 631-330-3230

4. WinterTide concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson hosts a special Valentine’s Day concert on Feb. 14 with musical storyteller Gerald Bair from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. Free. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. Call 473-5220 or visit www.gpjac.org.

5. Valentine’s Day Paint & Sip

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Northport Historical Society and Museum, 215 Main St., Northport with a fun, creative twist! Join curator Elizabeth Abrahams Riordan for a Paint and Sip event on Feb. 14 at 6 p.m. inspired by the iconic Still in Love graffiti on Northport’s Bayview Avenue. Participants will paint their own homage to this unique piece of local street art and enjoy adult beverages. For ages 21 and over. Tickets are $35 per person, $30 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org. 631-757-9859

6. Grounds and Sounds concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a concert featuring The Claudia Jacobs Band on Feb. 14 to serve up tunes that will honor a wide range of feelings that are sure to touch hearts no matter where they might be residing at the moment. The show begins with an Open Mic at 7:30 (signup at 7 p.m.); the main act goes on at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, available in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. For more information, call 631-751-0297.

7. Michael Bublé Tribute

The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main St., Riverhead presents Feelin’ Good: The Ultimate Michael Bublé Experience with Anthony Bernasconi on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. Join them for a night filled with the timeless classics and unforgettable originals that have made Bublé a global sensation. Backed by a 17-piece orchestra, this show promises an authentic experience that will transport you straight to the front row of a live Bublé concert. Tickets range from $49 to $99. To order, call 727-4343 or visit www.suffolktheater.com.

8. Valentine dinner dance

Time to put on your dancing shoes! East Wind Long Island, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River presents its annual Valentine Dinner Dance in the Grand Ballroom on Feb. 14 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy a four hour premium open bar, live DJ music, passed hors d’oeuvres, gourmet buffet and dessert for $125 per person. For reservations, call 631-929-6585 or visit www.eastwindlongisland.com.

9. ‘Heartbreak Hotel’

Fans of Elvis will love Heartbreak Hotel at the John Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. The show takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll” and features over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs including, “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Burning Love,” “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jail- house Rock,” “Are You Lonesome,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

10. Night Sky Love

Looking for an unusual date night with Your Valentine? The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road Centerport will present a special Valentine’s Day show, “Night Sky Love,” on Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. This live presentation celebrates Valentine’s Day and all of its lovers in outer space. With its Valentine/love emphasis, this show will explore how civilizations told stories about the constellations that included tales of heroism and love, and how they are depicted in the night sky.  Tickets to the afternoon show are $20 adults, $18 students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus), $16 children 12 and under. Tickets to the evening show are $12 adults, $10 students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus), $8 children 12 and under. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

11. ‘Jersey Boys’

Head over to the South Shore for a performance of Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons at the Argyle Theatre, 34 West Main St., Babylon on Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. Featuring chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You,” which brought The Four Seasons the highest honor: induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. For tickets, visit www.argyletheatre.com.

12. Valentine’s Day Tribute Concert

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History 604 Main St., Stony Brook for Pure Joy, a Valentine’s Day tribute to African American singers and composers with Paige Patterson and her band on Feb. 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy music from Stevie Wonder, Nancy Wilson, The Drifters, Corinne Bailey Rae and more. $45 per person includes champagne and refreshments. Call 631-751-7707 to reserve your seat.

13. Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour

And for the animal lover …. Save A Pet, 608 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station will hold a Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour fundraiser on Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join them for a special pregame treat. Enjoy wine, charcuterie, sweets, raffle baskets and a rose, all while supporting the animals at the shelter — and yes, adorable puppies will be in attendance to make your evening even more delightful! Your $25 ticket can be used toward an adoption fee. For reservations, visit www.saveapetusa.org.

14. Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center  for the Art, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra concert on the Main Stage on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. Conducted by Xian Zhang, the program will include Bellini’s Overture “I Capuleti e Montecchi”; Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with a piano solo by Owen Dodds; and Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. Join emeritus professor Peter Winkler in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. for a free pre-concert lecture. Tickets are $25 adults, $20 seniors and $10 students (with SBU ID). To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

by -
0 399
From left, Frankenstein and Catapotumous

Adopt Frankenstein and Catapotumous!                                                                             

This week’s shelter pets are Frankenstein and Catapotumous – Frankie and Cat for short. This inseparable duo arrived at the shelter after their owner, sadly, could no longer care for them. Their deep bond is truly heartwarming, and our greatest wish is to find them a loving home where they can enjoy their golden years together.

Frankenstein is a stunning gray and white domestic shorthair, estimated to be around 17 years young. The senior of the pair, exudes warmth and affection, winning over everyone she meets. Frankie would love nothing more than to be adopted alongside her best friend, Cat. She would do well in a home with older children, other cats, and calm dogs.

Catapotumous, is a gorgeous thirteen -year-old, brown and white, domestic short hair, female tabby.  Her affectionate nature makes her the perfect companion, ready to share her love and playfulness with a loving family. Expect a double dose of purring, lap naps and snuggles while in the company of Cat and her bestie Frankie. Cat would thrive in most home environments, including those with older kids, other cats, and calm dogs.

These two lovely ladies bring double the love and companionship—if you’re looking to add warmth and joy to your home, consider opening your heart to Frankie and Cat. They’re ready to shower their new family with endless love!

If you are interested in meeting  Frankenstein and Catapotumous please fill out an application to schedule time to properly interact with your prospective soul mate in a domestic setting.

All of the felines at the Shelter are current on vaccines and have received a full workup (blood work, Feline HIV & Leukemia tested, physical exam etc) by a board certified Veterinarian.

For more information regarding our rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only).  For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

by -
0 1222
METRO photo

By Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

There is so much conflict and polarization in the world today. We need to work harder at building bridges instead of walls. DEI — diversity, equity, and inclusion — is such a powerful way to build those bridges that are so crucial.

To blame tragedies on DEI is unconscionable. DEI should be woven in all of our workplaces, in our schools and in our sports. We are a nation founded on diversity; hopefully a nation that practices equity and is continuously looking for ways to be more inclusive.

Unfortunately, discrimination, lack of equity and inclusiveness have been part of our history. Many have worked to correct those areas that are not inclusive at all and open to diversity.

Wherever DEI is present, it strengthens the workplace. It does not weaken it. Standards are not compromised. Expectations are not minimized. Inclusivity is an attempt to make sure that everyone is welcomed;  equity is an attempt to make sure everyone is treated fairly without compromise or discrimination.

To eliminate DEI would be a step backwards; it would once again reinforce prejudicial attitudes and behaviors. No matter what our political affiliation, we need to be advocates for inclusivity equity and diversity. We have made such great strides in combatting, exclusivity, injustice, and blatant discrimination. We have an opportunity as a country to transcend political differences and find a way to work together to make all Americans feel welcomed, respected, and included.

These are definitely challenging times, but also an opportunity to come together despite our differences. It is an opportunity to move forward as a stronger nation respecting the gifts and talents of all people and using their gifts and talents to build a stronger and more resilient nation.

DEI and its initiatives are aimed at fostering a culture that embraces and values differences; ultimately leading not only to better outcomes for organizations that embrace these initiatives, but also an opportunity to strengthen not only our communities, but our nation. It is an opportunity to really build strong bridges, and not walls.

DEI is a framework that can promote a more inclusive and fair environment for all individuals regardless of their backgrounds or their identities. Our nation was founded on freedom and respect for all people despite our ethnic differences. We are a melting pot nation and stronger because of that.

As we welcome a new leadership team, they represent us and what we believe is important for our country. Unity, inclusiveness, respect and equity are critical for our future and for the strength of our nation. We don’t want the next generation to be blinded by race, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. We want the next generation to celebrate our diversity as a gift and a blessing.

Father Francis Pizzarelli, SMM, LCSW-R, ACSW, DCSW, is the director of Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.

by -
0 433
Take part in a Newspaper Village event at Emma Clark Library on Feb. 6.
PROGRAMS

Newspaper Village

Children ages 3 to 12 with a parent/caregiver are invited to stop by Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a Newspaper Village event on Feb. 6 between 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Use recycled newspaper to make a wintry scene. No registration required. Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

Create this cute Mitten & Heart-Shaped Snowball painting on Feb. 8.

Valentine’s Day Workshop

Join the Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, St. James for a Valentine’s Day Workshop on Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn how to paint a Mitten & Heart-Shaped Snowball painting  step-by-step with Miss Linda. $55 per child includes 11×14 canvas and supplies. To register, visit www.theatelieratflowerfield.org. 631-250-9009

Scouting Anniversary

In honor of the Scouting Anniversary, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will give all Scouts BSA and Cub Scouts wearing their uniform with an accompanying adult a free guided tour of the hatchery on Feb. 8 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. with paid admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Birding by the Beach

Town of Brookhaven continues its Winter Nature Program series with Birding by the Beach on Feb. 8 at West Meadow Beach Pavilion in Stony Brook at 10 a.m. and Cedar Beach Nature Center at 2 p.m. Join staff in searching for overwintering birds and winter waterfowl. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Super Bowl ‘Saturday’

Get excited for the big game! Children in Grades K through 6 (with parent/caregiver) are welcome to stop by Emma Clark Library, 120 main St., Setauket on Feb. 8 between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy football-themed festivities. Includes a raffle to win a special prize. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite team’s jersey or football-themed attire. No registration required. Bring a friend! Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

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

Animal Tracks

As part of its Pollywog Adventures series, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents Animal Tracks on Feb. 12 at 11 a.m. Children ages 2 to 5 will enjoy an activity, craft, story and feeding the hungry trout. $20 fee includes admission for the day for one child and one adult. Pre-registration required at www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768

THEATER

‘Frozen Jr’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Frozen Jr. from Jan. 18 to Feb. 23. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Tickets are $25 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

INTO THE WOODS
Catch a performance of ‘Hansel and Gretel’ at Theatre Three before it’s gone! The show closes on Feb. 8. Photo courtesy of Theatre Three

‘Hansel and Gretel’

Theatre Three, 423 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off the new year with Hansel and Gretel from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8. Go into the woods for an outrageous adventure with the world’s most famous brother-and-sister team, Hansel and Gretel. A feeble father, a wicked stepmother, and a well-meaning if misguided witch add up to hilarious hijinx. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Frozen Jr’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport kicks off the new year with a production of Frozen Jr. from Jan. 25 to March 2. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

by -
0 825
A PERFECT MATCH Catch one of the last performances of Theatre Three's 'Crossing Delancey.' The heartwarming romantic comedy about life and tradition closes this weekend. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Thursday Feb. 6

An Evening of Jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the Jazz Loft Big Band in concert at 7 p.m. The 17-piece big band directed by Tom Manuel; the band will be presenting a program of all Black composers to celebrate Black History Month. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children at www.thejazzloft.org.

WinterTide Concert

Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson kicks off its WinterTide concert series with a performance by guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free, donations welcome. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and the Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. 631-802-2160

Faithful Conversations

Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket continues its Faithful Conversations series with decorated veteran and New York Times bestselling author Elliot Ackerman at 7 p.m. Following a conversation with the Reverend Dr. Johanna McCune Wagner and audience Q&A, there will be an opportunity to meet Mr. Ackerman at a book signing. Free but registration is required by visiting setauketpresbyterian.org/speaker-series.

CAC Stand Up Comedy

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Stand-Up/Sit-Down live comedy series at 8 p.m. with a performance by comedian and magician John Ferrentino followed by an interview hosted by Steven Taub. Tickets are $35, $25 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Friday Feb. 7

Free Health Screenings

St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, 50 Route 25A, Smithtown will have the Catholic Health Community Health and Outreach Mobile Bus in its main parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to offer free health screenings and flu vaccinations for adults 18 years and older.  For more information, please call 631-469-0989.

Still in Love exhibit opening

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St. Northport for the opening reception of its Still in Love exhibit, a captivating collection that explores enduring connections and the nature of affection, at 6 p.m. Curator Elizabeth Abrahams Riordan will guide attendees through the vision, significance, and themes of the exhibit, offering deeper insights into the works on display. 631-757-9859

Adult Game Night – This event has been canceled.

Celebrate St. James hosts a game night for adults at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Enjoy a fun night out with board games, card games, pizza, light refreshments and a hot chocolate bar. $15 donation. For tickets and more information, visit www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Saturday Feb. 8

Be My Valentine Craft Fair

Time to shop! Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wag Center, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host Island Fair’s Be My Valentine Craft Fair today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Feb. 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 80 vendors offering jewelry, chocolate, candles, soaps, and more. Free admission and free parking. 631-885-1267

Model Train Show Open House

TMB Model Train Club at the Upper Room Church, 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills hosts a Model Train Show Open House today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Feb. 9 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy  multiple trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains running at all times. Fun for the whole family. Free admission. For more information, visit www.tmbmodeltrainclub.com. See story on page B28.

All Souls Saturdays Poetry

The Second Saturdays poetry series will be returns to All Souls Church in Stony Brook via Zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. Bruce Johnson will be the featured poet. An open reading will follow; all are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, please call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/

Wilderness Survival Workshop

The Vanderbilt Museum 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Wilderness Survival Series with Ranger Eric Powers and Mike Evans today at 2 p.m. and runs  once a month through July 12. Each workshop focuses on specific skills such as making cordage, shelter building, purifying water, and toolmaking. Perfect for those starting their survival skills journey or looking to deepen existing skills, these workshops offer a platform to learn, share experiences, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. $50 per person, $45 members. To reserve your spot, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Poetry & Mocktail Night – This event has been moved to Feb. 15 due to the weather forecast.

Join Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station for Love in Verse: Poetry & Mocktail Night, a special Valentine’s Day Open Poetry Mic Night filled with heartfelt expressions, delicious mocktails, and the timeless beauty of poetry at 7 p.m. $15 admission, $10 members. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Sunday Feb. 9

Be My Valentine Craft Fair

See Feb. 8 listing.

Model Train Show Open House

See Feb. 8 listing.

Psychics Wellness Expo

Holiday Inn, 1730 North Ocean Ave., Holtsville hosts the Long Island Psychics Wellness Expo from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring psychic mediums, tarot readings, wellness vendors and more. Free admission and giveaways. 516-444-1975

Gathering Time in Concert 

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport presents a concert by the folk-rock harmony trio Gathering Time titled Great Love Songs of the ’60s & ’70s at 2 p.m. showcasing great love songs of that era by performers including The Beatles, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Joni Mitchell, and many others. Open to all. To register, call 631-261-6930.

Camryn Quinlan in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Camryn Quinlan from 3 to 4 p.m. The 17-year-old singer/songwriter from Sayville is inspired by a wide range of artists including Taylor Swift, Kasey Musgraves and Chappell Roan The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Brenda Marie Turner in Concert

As part of celebrating Black History Month, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington presents a free concert , Sing Out: A Tour for Harmony featuring international vocalist Brenda Marie Turner at 3 p.m. Audiences are invited on a deeply personal and joyous musical journey through diverse genres, eras, and cultures showcasing classical arias, spirituals, jazz standards, musical theater, and gospel. No tickets required.

Yoga in the Planetarium

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents two sessions of yoga starting at 5:30 p.m. with Celestial Flow: A Vinyasa Yoga Experience in the Planetarium followed by Rest & Restore Yoga Experience in the Planetarium at 7 p.m. Dive into an unparalleled journey of relaxation set against the mesmerizing backdrop of a planetarium. Please bring a yoga mat. $37 per session. To register, visit www.popuppranayoga.com.

Monday Feb. 10

Country Line Dancing w/Natalie

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

Sound Beach Civic Meeting

Sound Beach Firehouse, 152 Sound Beach Blvd., Sound Beach will host a meeting of the Sound Beach Civic Association at 7:30 p.m. On the agenda will be a representative from Citizens Campaign for the Environment,  a nonpartisan environmental organization  that advocates for local, state, and federal environmental policy. All are welcome. For more information call 631-744-6952.

Tuesday Feb. 11

SBU Provost Lecture

Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host the university’s February Provost Lecture, featuring distinguished anthropologists Patricia Wright and Lawrence Martin at 3 p.m. who will each give a brief lecture about their work and its significance followed by a reception with light refreshments. The lecture and reception are free and open to the public. 

Narcan Training Workshop

Learn to save lives. St. Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown will host a free Naloxone/Narcan training workshop at 7 p.m. Kits are provided at the training. Seating is limited. To RSVP, text 631-374-9281 or email [email protected].

Wednesday Feb. 12

Watercolor Valentine’s Workshop

Huntington Historical Society presents a Valentine’s Watercolor Workshop at the Conklin Barn, 2 High Street, Huntington from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Create a personal watercolor card to show someone special how much they mean to you using two popular watercolor techniques—wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry—to make your card truly unique. Instructor for the evening will be local artist Oksana Danziger. Fee is $35, $30 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Galentine’s Women’s Health Fair

The Long Island Aquarium, 431 East Main St., Riverhead hosts a Galentine’s Women’s Health Fair, aimed at empowering women in Suffolk County with valuable health resources and information, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Enjoy educational and wellness demonstrations, talks with health professions, sweet treats in honor of Valentine’s Day, raffles, cash bar and more. For ages 16 and up. Free but must RSVP by visiting www.suffolkcountymedical.com/event-list

Thursday Feb. 13

Self Love Yoga Night

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a Self-Love Yoga Class at 7 p.m. Join instructor Francesca Love for a night dedicated to self-affirmations and inner harmony.  $15 per person, $10 members. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Film

‘The Exorcist’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave. Huntington kicks off its new Reel 1970s series with a screening of William Friedkin’s horror masterpiece The Exorcist (1973) on Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m.  Hosted by film historian Glenn Andreiev. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org 

David Lynch Tribute

In memory of legendary director David Lynch, who passed away on Jan. 15 at the age of 78, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will be screening a selection of his most iconic films including Blue Velvet on Feb. 8 at 7 p.m., Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me on Feb. 15 at 7 p.m., Wild at Heart on Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m.; Mulholland Drive on Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m.; Inland Empire on Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m., Lost Highway on March 1 at 7 p.m, and A Straight Story on March 29 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $16, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘It Ends with Us’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of  It Ends with Us starring Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and Jenny Slate on Feb. 13 from 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Theater

‘Crossing Delancey’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 54th season with Susan Sandler’s Crossing Delancey from Jan. 18 to Feb. 9. Isabel is an independent young woman living alone and working in a book shop. When not pining after a handsome author, she visits her grandmother in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This spunky granny and her friend the matchmaker have found a “good catch” for Izzy, whose initial reluctance gives way to a blossoming romance when she finally meets Sam, the pickle vendor. A sincere, delightful, and loving comedy. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, and $25 for children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Heartbreak Hotel’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs including “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Burning Love,” “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jail- house Rock,” “Are You Lonesome,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Comedy of Errors’

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook presents The Acting Company in Comedy of Errors on the Main Stage on Feb. 8 at 8 p.m. Shakespeare’s ultimate farce of mistaken identities and wild reunions comes alive in a production that combines the Bard’s timeless humor with a modern twist. Tickets range from $47 to $66. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 14 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org

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

 

by -
1 1133
Mark X. Cronin with his son John. Facebook photo
A response to President Trump’s remarks

By Mark X. Cronin

In times of tragedy, our words matter. We witnessed sixty-seven people lose their lives, suddenly tossing mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, friends, coworkers, and teammates into the darkest grief. In moments like these we must resist the urge to jump to conclusions.

President Trump, I heard what you said about the plane crash in Washington DC when you suggested that the hiring of people with intellectual developmental disabilities contributed to the tragedy. As the father of a young man with Down syndrome and an employer of people with differing abilities, I feel compelled to respond—not in anger, but to open a dialogue. I am not calling you out, instead I would like to invite you in, to learn more about what people with intellectual developmental disabilities can do and the contributions they are already making to our society and economy.

Let’s not blame people with differing abilities. Let’s not return to a time when they were shunned and ostracized. I want you to see how people with differing abilities contribute to our schools, workplaces, and communities. Across our nation and industries, people with differing abilities prove every day that they are valuable, skilled, and reliable employees. Companies like Microsoft, Walgreens, and EY have built successful programs hiring neurodiverse employees because they see their talent, not their limitations.

As an employer, I can assure you that no organization, least of all the FAA, knowingly places individuals in roles for which they are unqualified. Every air traffic controller undergoes intensive training and testing to ensure they meet the highest standards. The same applies to every pilot, engineer, and safety inspector. The inclusion of people with differing abilities does not mean lowering the bar; it means assessing skills fairly and placing people where they can succeed. That is not to say that no one made a mistake, but if mistakes were made, it is not because they had an intellectual developmental disability.

Mr. President, I invite you to see firsthand what inclusion looks like. Visit John’s Crazy Socks, meet my son John. He is an entrepreneur like you and a leader – EY named him Entrepreneur of the Year. More than half of our colleagues have a differing ability, meet them, see their dedication, talent, and hard work—not limitations. I believe that if you see this in action, you’ll understand why so many businesses, large and small, are embracing inclusive hiring as a competitive advantage.

America’s strength comes from the contributions of all its people. Never be blinded by a person’s limitations, be awed by their possibilities. When we focus on what individuals can do—rather than what they cannot—we build a stronger, more inclusive society. That’s the future and I hope you will lead us there.

Mark X. Cronin is co-founder and President  of John’s Crazy Socks in Farmingdale.

Prev1...495051...978Next Page 50 of 978
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

©