A scene from a previous Polar Plunge at Mt. Sinai’s Cedar Beach. Bill Landon photo
Hundreds of brave Special Olympics New York supporters are expected to participate in the Polar Plunge Saturday, November 23, running into the freezing waters of the Long Island Sound to raise funds and awareness for local Special Olympics athletes and programming.
The Polar Plunge is one of the most popular, profitable, and exciting fundraisers for Special Olympics New York. Participants raise money by asking friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances for donations. Event details are as follows.
For additional information, please contact Alexis Dawson at [email protected] or 631-386-8038.
About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 45,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 300 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.
Stony Brook Cancer Center and Stony Brook Orthopaedic Associates participated and supported the American Cancer Society’s largest breast cancer walk in the country, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer at Jones Beach State Park on October 20.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. Stony Brook Cancer Center is Suffolk County’s cancer care leader and a leader in education and research. The Breast Cancer Team cares for more than 450 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients each year.
Part of the successful team delivering the services from Stony Brook Medicine is Stony Brook Cancer Center’s Mobile Mammography Van. Since 2018, the custom-built, 40-foot state-of-the-art van has been on the road to offer free mammograms in Nassau and Suffolk communities. The van was at Jones Beach to draw attention to the need for screening to diagnose the disease early to help save lives. Stony Brook Cancer Center staff discussed the valuable resource to provide vital information and services related to breast cancer.
With the goal of bringing smiles to patients and families who are facing Halloween in the hospital, Stony Brook Medicine hosted Halloween events to make the holiday extra special. The March of Dimes made costumes for NICU patients at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. The Stony Brook Cancer Center held its first-ever Trick or Treat and Halloween extraBOOganza with a parade.
Faculty, administrators, staff and current students at Suffolk County Community College will welcome new and prospective students to a Fall Open House on Sunday, Nov. 3, from noon to 2 p.m.
Open houses will take place at all three of the college’s campuses in Riverhead, Selden and Brentwood, as well as its Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center in Riverhead.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet faculty, tour campuses, and learn about student organizations and clubs, Suffolk’s varied degree and certificate programsas well as the grants and loan process. In addition, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the numerous scholarships available for students enrolled at Suffolk.
Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, SMM Advertising and Retired Volunteer Services Programs (RSVP) will hold a winter coat drive to benefit the residents of Suffolk County who are in need of warm winter clothingfrom Nov. 1 through Jan. 7.
They are collecting gently used or new coats, jackets, hats, gloves, mittens, scarves and blankets for infants, children, teens and adult men and women.
“As people prepare for the winter and clean out their closets or plan to give a new coat as a gift, it is important for all of us to help our fellow neighbors who need warm coats by contributing to this drive,” said Legislator Rob Trotta.
Donations may be dropped off at Legislator Trotta’s district office, 59 Landing Avenue, Suite 1, Smithtown, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For directions or questions, call 631-854-3900.
Just in time for the holidays, the Smithtown Township Arts Council’s Mills Pond Gallery in St. James presents Small But Still Mighty, an exhibition and affordable art sale featuring 170 smaller works ranging in size from 10 to 24 inches wide created by local artists in a variety of mediums including acrylic, colored pencil, ink, mixed media, oil, oil and cold wax, pastel, pencil, ink, photography, pigment ink, archival metallic luster, soft pastel and watercolor. The show opens on Nov. 2 and runs through Dec. 15.
“I believe that art speaks to us…sends a visual message that maybe reminds us of a past place, person or feeling. Maybe we make that connection through the colors used…or the style of the art or the place depicted. We each interpret that visual message based on our own experiences and emotions,” said Allison Cruz, Executive Director of the Smithtown Township Arts Council and Mills Pond Gallery.
“This exhibit celebrates the artists whose amazing creativity adds beauty to the world around us and offers an opportunity for the public to support creativity in their communities,” she said.
Cruz urges exhibit visitors to consider purchasing or gifting original art this holiday season.
“Supporting artists helps foster their continued creativity while bringing economic benefits to our communities. Art creates a connection between the giver and the recipient that can last long after the gift is unwrapped,” said Cruz.
“By gifting art, you create an opportunity for the recipient to discover something new or get in touch with their creative side! Art can act as a constant reminder of the beauty and creativity in the world. Come browse the exhibit…you are sure to find something that perfectly fits the lifestyle of the person you are shopping for…nature art, animal art, abstract creations and so much more!”
The exhibitincludes 47 artists from 45 Long Island communities, one from CT, and one from NYC including Adriena Masi, Angela Stratton, Annette Napolitano, Arlene Gernon, Bernice Corbin, Bobbie Ludwig, Carol Kelly, Carol Ceraso, Debra Baker, Ellen Ferrigno, Frederic Mendelsohn, George Junker, Gia Horton, Heather Jablon, James Kelson, James Andrew Conan Dill, Jeanette Martone, Joan Rockwell, JoAnne Dumas, John Morris, John Mansueto, Josephine Puccio, Judith Musaro, Judy Stone, Kathee Shaff Kelson, Kathy Brown, Linda Ann Catucci, Liz Jorg Masi, Lori Scarlatos, Louise Mcclellan, Lynn Staiano, Mary Waka, Mary Jane Houser, Megan Kenny, Myungja Anna Koh, Nicholas Valentino, Pat Forie, Patricia Lind-Gonzalez, Patti Peterson, Patty Yantz, Robert Roehrig, Sally Anne Keller, Sheniqua Young, Theodora Zavala, Theresa Graff, and William Drost.
The community is invited to an opening reception on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to meet the exhibiting artists and view their work.
Mills Pond Gallery is located at 660 Route 25A in St. James. Regular gallery hours are Wednesdays to Fridays from 10 am. to 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m., closed from Nov. 25 to 30 for Thanksgiving. Admission to the gallery is always free.
For more information or directions, call 631-862-6575 or visit www.millspondgallery.org.
The holiday season is a joyous time of year, but it can also throw your wellness routines out of alignment. Doctors advise prioritizing healthy choices during this period, so you can start 2025 on the right foot.
“Everyone’s holiday wish is to be happy, health and safe, but the season is often a time for overindulgence in food and drink, increased stress and exposure to respiratory illness,” says Bruce A. Scott, M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA).
The AMA recommends taking these steps during the holidays:
1. Vaccines are a safe and remarkably effective defense from a number of serious respiratory viruses that circulate in the fall and winter. To protect yourself and your family, get up to date on your vaccines, including the annual flu shot, as well as the updated COVID-19 vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Vaccines are also available to protect older adults from severe RSV. Tools to protect infants during RSV season include maternal vaccination as well as the monoclonal antibody immunization. If you have questions, speak with your physician and review trusted resources, including getvaccineanswers.org.
2. Watch what you eat. Pay particular attention to labels and avoid processed foods as much as you can, especially those with added sodium and sugar. Consider having a healthy snack before the big meal or offer to bring a healthier dish for the holiday spread. Drink water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages, and eat nutritious, whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables alongside richer holiday fare.
3. Stick to your exercise schedule and prioritize physical activity during this busy time of year. A good rule of thumb for adults is at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity. Brisk walks, bike rides, hikes and even family-friendly sports like basketball and touch football are good for heart health.
4. Use time with relatives to find out whether your family has a history of type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease, and whether other family members have been told they have prediabetes. With this information, you can better understand your risk and take charge of your health.
5. Prioritize your mental health. Factors like holiday spending and navigating time with extended family can bring on extra seasonal stress. You can help manage stress by getting sufficient sleep, exercising and seeking help from a mental health professional when you need it.
6. Make smart choices and plan ahead if you’re driving. In December 2021 alone, 1,013 Americans died in alcohol impaired-driving crashes. Do not drive under any circumstances if you intend to drink. And if you are the designated driver, make a 100% commitment to sobriety.
7. Be prepared when traveling. Whether you’re flying or taking a road trip, you might be tempted to grab convenient, unhealthy food for the journey. Consider packing your own snacks, such as fresh fruits and vegetables or small portions of dried fruits and nuts.
8. Get New Year’s resolutions started early. Speak with your doctor or health care professional about quitting tobacco and nicotine use, and declare your home and car smoke-free to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure.
“The holiday season is a wonderful time to reconnect with family and friends – it’s also a chance to reconnect with your physical and mental health,” says Dr. Scott. (StatePoint)
Stony Brook Village has announced the return of its popular luncheon fashion show series, “The Lookbook Luncheons,” set to take place this November. This three-part series will showcase the latest fall styles from renowned local boutiques, offering a delightful blend of fashion and local cuisine.
Each event will run from 12:30p.m. to 2 p.m. at a different local restaurant, including Luca Modern Italian Restaurant (A two-course meal for $39) on Nov. 7; Country House Restaurant (A three-course meal for $45) on Nov. 14; and Mirabelle Restaurant at the Three Village Inn (A two-course meal for $35)on Nov. 21.
Guests can look forward to enjoying a curated dining experience featuring a variety of fall fashion from Mint, Madison’s Niche, D.K. Brothers, Kate’s Vintage Rose, and Chico’s. Each luncheon will unveil new styles, making it possible to attend all three and discover the latest trends.
As attendees savor their meals, models will grace the dining spaces, showcasing stunning fall fashions and sharing insights about the looks they are wearing. The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) will be present to share fascinating tidbits of local history connected to each dining location.New this year, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in an enhanced culinary experience at the luncheon. They will be immersed in the captivating world of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, thanks to The Crushed Olive. Attendees will learn the benefits of olive oil and balsamic, while savoring complimentary tastings.
This event is the perfect way to prepare for Thanksgiving. Discover exquisite olive oils to enhance your holiday meals and find the ideal outfit to wear to your Thanksgiving dinner.
Reservations are required to ensure a spot at these events. Interested guests can make reservations by contacting the restaurants directly:
Luca Modern Italian Restaurant: 631-675-0435, 93 Main Street, Stony Brook Village
Country House Restaurant: 631-751-3332, 1175 North Country Road, Stony Brook
Mirabelle Restaurant: 631-751-0555, 150 Main Street, Stony Brook Village
On Oct. 20 Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner celebrated the grand opening of The Wax Bar, a new full body waxing studio located at 648 Route 25A, in Rocky Point. The new business caters to both women and men, offering a full line of waxing services, packages, classes, gift cards and products.
For more information about the waxing services offered or to book an appointment, call 631-603-9811 or visit www.vagaro.com/thewaxbarli.
Pictured from left are Danielle McCauley; Abigail Ordmandy; Samantha Ringle; Danny Holmes; Julia McCord (owner); Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Alex McCord; Josh McCord; Karen Holmes; Thomas Holmes and Lauren Holmes.
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us are preparing for one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. And while the joy of seeing loved ones is the main focus, let’s not forget that each time we cross state lines, we’re also entering a new legal landscape.
Known as the “Implied Consent Doctrine,” this concept means that by simply driving into another state, you agree to follow its rules of the road—even when they’re downright bizarre. To help make your road trip a little more entertaining (and legally compliant), I’ve gathered some of the most peculiar traffic laws from the continental U.S.
Northeast
• Maine: You are not permitted to park in front of Dunkin’ Donuts. Considering how serious residents of Maine are about their morning coffee, this law might just be about preserving access to their lifeline.
• New Hampshire: Do not stop in the middle of the road to let a moose pass; it is considered obstructive driving.
• Vermont: It is illegal to whistle underwater while driving (though one might wonder how that situation could arise).
• Massachusetts: Drivers cannot operate a car with a gorilla in the back seat. Indeed, you read that correctly…
• Rhode Island: If you find yourself in Providence at night, keep a bell handy—it is legally required for cars after dark.
Midwest
• Ohio: In Youngstown, running out of gas on the road is actually considered a misdemeanor!
• Illinois: Hanging fuzzy dice or air fresheners from your rearview mirror is illegal. The goal here is to keep your line of sight clear, though it’s a tough break for lovers of retro car accessories.
• Michigan: When approaching a roundabout in South Haven, be sure to stop if emergency vehicles are nearby, as it is illegal to enter a roundabout while emergency vehicles are approaching.
• Iowa: On Sundays, keep the honking to a minimum if there’s a horse nearby—it is considered harassment, which makes one wonder how many horses have actually complained.
• Kansas: It is illegal to screech your tires—unintentionally or otherwise.
• North Dakota: In Fargo, you can’t drive barefoot. I guess that means flip-flops are fine, but bare feet are a step too far.
South
• Florida: It is the law to let faster cars pass on highways, no matter how much you want to set your own pace. Florida does not mess around when it comes to staying in the right lane.
• Georgia: Driving with an animal tied to your car roof is illegal—a law that likely exists because of travelers who took Clark Griswold’s antics a bit too literally.
• South Carolina: In Hilton Head, it is illegal to ride a bike without keeping at least one hand on the handlebars.
• Alabama: In case you were wondering, driving while blindfolded is prohibited. It sounds absurd, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
• Tennessee: Shooting at any game from your car is a no-go—unless, of course, it is a whale.
West
• California: Shooting at game from a moving vehicle is banned, except for—you guessed it—whales. Who knew whales were such frequent targets on U.S. roadways?
• Nevada: Camels are not allowed on highways, a remnant from the days when camels were actually used for transportation in the desert.
• Oregon: For those planning to fill up their gas tanks, remember that you are not allowed to pump your own gas in many parts of the state, so pretend you are in New Jersey, where motorists have not been permitted to pump their own gas since 1949!
Stranger than fiction traffic laws in our home state of New York
• No Sleeping: In Southampton Village, you are only allowed to sleep in your car at specific times. The local rule is simple: if your car is stationary, you may not sleep in it between the hours of 2:00 and 5:00 a.m. But it may be assumed that it is lawful to sleep in your vehicle for the remaining 22 hours of the day.
• No U-Turns in West Hampton Dunes: In West Hampton Dunes, if you miss a turn, you had better be a master of rerouting. The village has an ordinance that bans U-turns on all streets, leaving no room for error in your navigation.
• No Disrobing: Feel like changing clothes in your car while in Sag Harbor? Do not. The village’s vaguely worded bathing law makes it illegal to strip down in public or in your vehicle. When you bathe in Sag Harbor, you are also required to wear a swimsuit or suitable covering. No exceptions.
• No Warming Up: Cold outside? Too bad. New York is one of thirty states, where it is against state law to warm up your car unless you are sitting in it. The Unattended Motor Vehicle law prohibits leaving the engine running without the key removed. So, unless you want a ticket, you will need to shiver it out. The only exception to this law is if a remote-control starter is used to warm up the car.
• Other Laws Related to Idling Vehicles: Heavy-duty vehicles are prohibited from idling for more than five minutes at a time for trucks and buses with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 8,500 pounds. New York City Prohibits idling for more than three minutes for all vehicles, or one minute outside a school. Fines for idling range from $500 to $18,000 for a first violation.
• No Speeding Past a Sanitation Truck: In 2016, New York expanded its definition of a hazard truck to include sanitation trucks. This means drivers must slow down when passing a garbage truck, just as they would for a fire truck or ambulance. The rule aims to protect sanitation workers from getting clipped by drivers in a hurry.
Although the main goal of Thanksgiving travel is to safely reach family and friends, learning about some of these quirky laws can add a bit of fun to your road trip. Plus, it never hurts to know what to expect when you cross into new territory.
Final thoughts
While these peculiar New York regulations might seem excessive, they are not alone in their strangeness. Just as New York State outlaws warming up your unattended car, unless by keyless remote, other states have quirky twists on idling rules too—like New Jersey, where pumping your own gas is illegal, or California, which limits idling time to protect air quality.
Meanwhile, Sag Harbor’s ban on disrobing in vehicles is reminiscent of laws in Alabama, where driving blindfolded is prohibited (as if that needed to be specified). Compared to these, New York’s ban on speeding past sanitation trucks aligns more with other states’ safety measures, like Florida’s rule to let faster cars pass. While local ordinances reflect unique community concerns and seem more like relics of an overzealous town board meeting, state laws generally aim for broader public safety and environmental protection, often with stricter enforcement and heftier fines.
Although the main goal of Thanksgiving travel is to safely reach family and friends, learning about some of these quirky laws can add a bit of fun to your road trip. Plus, it never hurts to know what to expect when you cross into new territory.
Shannon L. Malone, Esq. is an Associate Attorney at Glynn Mercep Purcell and Morrison LLP in Setauket. She graduated from Touro Law, where she wrote and served as an editor of the Touro Law Review. Ms. Malone is a proud Stony Brook University alumna.
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