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Cruise Night Car Show at the Shoppes at East Wind attracts the classics

by Bill Landon - September 7, 2024

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By Bill Landon

As the saying goes, “The show must go on,” and despite high temperatures, in the shared parking lot of East Wind and The Shoppes in Wading River, the show did go on, as it does every Wednesday evening from 5 to 9 p.m. through October with a Cruise Night Car Show.

Packing the lot was a full complement of vintage classic cars and souped up muscle cars, along with the most modern exotic automobiles.

The area’s business owners welcome the enthusiastic, Wednesday night cruisers, because they bring their appetites and peruse the community’s various speciality shops.

— Photos by Bill Landon

NEVER FORGET: North Shore communities commemorate 9/11

by Heidi Sutton - September 7, 2024

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East-Northport-9-11-Service-2015_05w — A 9/11 service at the East Northport Fire Department. Photo by Victoria Espinoz/TBR News Media

Twenty-three years ago, the United States changed forever when hijacked jetliners crashed into the Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a field outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania. At Ground Zero in New York City, the traditional reading of names of each victim will begin at 8:30 a.m. this year at the 9/11 Memorial and the following ceremonies will be held on the North Shore to honor the thousands of lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, a day that will live forever in our hearts.

Centereach

The Centereach Fire Department, 9 South Washington Ave., Centereach invites the community to join them on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. for its annual 9/11 Memorial Services and candle lighting ceremony. 631-588-8652

Commack

The Commack School District will present A Night of Reflection in remembrance of 9/11 at the Commack High School football field, 1 Scholar Lane, Commack on Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. Call 631-912-2000.

Coram

Join the Coram Fire Department, 202 Middle Country Road, Coram for a remembrance ceremony on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. 631-732-5733.

East Northport

The East Northport Fire Department, 1 Ninth Ave., East Northport will host a 9/11 candlelight vigil memorial service with neighboring fire departments on Sept. 11 at 8 p.m. 631-261-0360

Hauppauge

The Hauppauge Fire Department, 855 Wheeler Road, Hauppauge will host a Remembrance Ceremony at its 9/11 Memorial on Sept 11 at 7 p.m. featuring the Hauppauge High School choir. 631-265-2499

Huntington

Town of Huntington officials will host a ceremony at the 9/11 memorial at Heckscher Park at the corner of Prime Ave. and Main Street, Huntington on Sept. 7 at noon. 631-351-3012

Mount Sinai

The Mt. Sinai Fire Department will host a 9/11 memorial ceremony at its headquarters, 746 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai on Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. 631-473-2418

Nesconset

The 9/11 Responders Remembered Park, 316 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset will host its annual memorial service and naming ceremony on Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. 631-724-3320

Port Jefferson

— The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Vigiano Brothers Lodge 3436 invite the community to join them for a candlelight remembrance of 9/11 at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sept. 11 at 6 p.m. Candles and refreshments will be provided. 631-928-7489

— The Port Jefferson Fire Department, 115 Maple Ave., Port Jefferson will hold a 9/11 memorial service on Sept. 11 at 9 a.m. 631-473-8910

Rocky Point

The Rocky Point Fire Department will host a ceremony at the 9/11 Community Memorial, at the corner of Route 25A and Tesla Street in Shoreham, on Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. 631-744-410

Selden

The Selden Fire Department, 44 Woodmere Place will host a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. 631-732-1234

Setauket

The Setauket Fire Department will conduct a 9/11 memorial ceremony at the Hook and Ladder Company 1, Station 3, 394 Nicolls Road, Setauket on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. followed by refreshments in the firehouse. Call 631-941-4900, ext. 1043

Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown will hold a Remembrance ceremony at 9/11 Memorial Park, located on Main Street (North Side) between Bank Street and Landing Avenue, Smithtown on Sept. 11 at 3 p.m. 631-360-7600

Stony Brook

To honor and remember the 21 Stony Brook University alumni who died on 9/11, all members of the community are invited to visit the Memorial Arch near the University’s Humanities Building, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook for quiet contemplation and reflection on Sept. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The campus chimes will ring 21 times at 8:46 am. 631-632-6330, [email protected]

Sound Beach

The Sound Beach Fire Department, 152 Sound Beach Blvd., Sound Beach will hold its annual Service of Remembrance ceremony on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. 631-744-4994

— Compiled by Heidi Sutton

SCCC empowers future workforce with innovative summer camps and workforce training programs

by Press Release - September 7, 2024

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wind3rt — Suffolk County Community College recently completed its Summer High School Offshore Wind Turbines course, designed to introduce high school students to the burgeoning field of wind energy. Photo courtesy of SCCC

Suffolk County Community College has announced the successful completion of its recent Summer High School Offshore Wind Turbines course, designed to introduce high school students to the burgeoning field of wind energy. The college held two separate summer sessions and provided students with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience.

The first camp was comprised solely of participants from the South Huntington School District. The second camp welcomed students, including those from the South Huntington School District, as well as participants from the New York State STEP (Science and Technology Entry Program) grant program

The program is sponsored by a grant awarded by the Offshore Wind Training Institute, an organization administered by SUNY Farmingdale and Stony Brook University. The grant is titled “Strengthening the Wind Energy Education Pipeline (SWEEP).”

The offshore wind turbines course is part of Suffolk County Community College’s broader effort to prepare students for careers in the renewable energy sector. This grant also enabled the college to expand its welding and composites training programs. Since the launch of these programs, students have successfully completed both the welding and Introduction to Basic Composite Technology courses, with a majority of students passing the American Welding Society (AWS) certification exam.

As part of the students’ comprehensive training experience, all students in the welding and basic composite technology programs also participated in career exploration workshops. These workshops featured guest speakers from the National Offshore Wind Training Center, the Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and Community Offshore Wind, offering valuable insights into the industry and future career paths. As a result, a number of students have already interviewed with labor unions for potential pre-apprenticeship opportunities in the Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

Additional students are scheduled to participate in these programs throughout 2024 and 2025. An inaugural cohort of a 60-hour composites course, leading to a national certification by CertTEC, is scheduled for Spring 2025. The college has also developed offshore wind career exploration modules in collaboration with the Institute for Workforce Advancement. These modules aim to engage underrepresented populations and post-high-school students by providing insights into wind energy fundamentals, local projects, and career opportunities. To date, three workshops have been held, with 12 more planned throughout the remainder of the grant project. Portable simulations will be used to enhance engagement at career fairs, libraries, and community venues

About Suffolk County Community College

Suffolk County Community College is the largest community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling approximately 21,000 students at its three campuses in Selden, Brentwood and Riverhead. Suffolk offers the Associate in Arts (A.A.), Associate in Science (A.S.), and Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees, as well as a variety of certificate programs. Offering affordable college tuition, a highly respected Honors program, workforce training programs, extensive extracurricular activities, championship athletic teams, and numerous transfer programs, Suffolk is a first-choice college for Long Island students. Visit us online at sunysuffolk.edu.

Research/Work reported in this press release was supported by SUNY System Administration under SUNY Offshore Wind Training Institute.

STEP is funded by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Project # 0516-24-0041Office of Access, Equity and Community Engagement Services (OAECES) & Office of Postsecondary Access, Support and Success (OPASS).

Lake Grove gets a fresh take on yoga with YogaSix

by Press Release - September 7, 2024

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Modern Studio Offers Accessible Yoga Classes and Spa-Like Amenities for All Levels

YogaSix, a modern fitness boutique offering a fresh perspective on one of the world’s oldest practices, recently opening up its newest location in Lake Grove on August 30. Located at 139 D Alexander Ave, the new studio introduces people of all ages and abilities to the various health and wellness benefits of the brand’s unique take on yoga, providing a welcoming, modern, and spa-like experience. Leading up to the grand opening on October 11, YogaSix Lake Grove will be offering discounted, unlimited class memberships.

YogaSix Lake Grove is owned and operated by Cristina Givelechian, a passionate yoga enthusiast originally from Romania, who moved to the United States in 1993. Givelechian’s journey into yoga began after reading a book about a Romanian man who was unable to walk, and traditional medicine wasn’t helping him recover. He eventually turned to yoga and fully regained his mobility. Inspired by this story, Givelechian wanted to learn more and began practicing yoga herself, discovering the profound mind-body connection it offers. Over 25 years later, yoga remains her go-to practice for de-stressing and maintaining flexibility and strength.

Givelechian brings a wealth of business experience to YogaSix. With a successful 30-year career in Commercial Banking, she honed her skills in portfolio management and client relations. Inspired by the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the business owners she served, Givelechian is determined to create a thriving yoga studio that positively impacts all the communities surrounding the Lake Grove area.

“Throughout my life, I’ve tried all kinds of fitness concepts, but yoga was the one I always came back to,” said Givelechian. “For many people, yoga isn’t something they would typically consider, but the more I talk to them, the more excited they get as they begin to realize the amazing benefits yoga offers. I can’t wait to continue spreading the word about yoga and sharing its incredible benefits with the amazing communities in Lake Grove and surrounding areas.”

A variety of yoga classes are offered at YogaSix to encompass everything from deep stretching, to stress relief, to high intensity training. Offering six core formats: Y6 101, Y6 Restore, Y6 Slow Flow, Y6 Hot, Y6 Power, Y6 Sculpt Flow. Each class caters to every fitness level and strengthens the mind-body connection.

The new studio plans to make an impression with its unique, modern version of yoga and fully sensory experience featuring state-of-the-art heating system, sound and lights, high-quality cushioned performance flooring, cool eucalyptus towels, aroma-therapy, and chic retail boutique. Particularly notable is the use of simple language instead of Sanskrit to describe poses, as the traditional language can be intimidating to newcomers. The studio provides class options for everybody, from beginners to athletes seeking recovery to more advanced students, in a judgement-free, welcoming, and supportive environment. New students are always greeted by a wellness advisor when they enter the studio to educate and empower them before they engage in a YogaSix experience.

YogaSix Lake Grove is open seven days a week with up to 6 classes daily, from 6am to 8pm. Monthly memberships are available for four, eight or unlimited visits per month, as well as drop-in options. More information about the new studio can be found at www.yogasix.com/location/lake-grove and the studio can be contacted by email at [email protected], or by phone at (631) 418-8959.

Three Village Rotary to host Light Up Main Street fundraiser

by Press Release - September 7, 2024

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Mark your calendars! Three Village Rotary will host a Light Up Main Street fundraiser at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket on Wednesday, Sept. 18 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The evening will feature live music, food, drinks and raffles. All proceeds will go towards funding lighting up Main Street in Setauket for the holidays. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make a difference while having a great time! Ticket includes one complimentary drink, food, coffee and dessert. To purchase, visit threevillagerotary.eventbrite.com.

The event is sponsored by The Bench, Main Street Properties, Revival by Toast, Makenzie Moeller of Howard Hanna Coach Realtors, Grace Leyhane of Howard Hanna Coach Realtors, Sweet Mama’s Restaurant, Invaiatura, and Relancer Capital. For more information, call 631-988-9564.

Harborfields BOE advances next phase of excellence program, as new school year begins

by Jennifer Donatelli - September 6, 2024

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By Jennifer Donatelli

Harborfields Board of Education convened on Wednesday, Aug. 21, to prepare for the new school year.

Superintendent Rory Manning opened with an executive session, covering ongoing projects and future goals for the district.

This summer, improvements included redone walkways around Harborfields High School, enhanced drainage, interior painting and a refurbished elevator at Oldfield Middle School.

One major goal for the upcoming year is the implementation of the Excellence Through Innovation program. The district is working on a five-year strategic plan to shift toward experiential learning and support the social-emotional wellness of all students and community members.

In line with the mission of “Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family,” the district is investing in curriculum enhancements. This includes technology science research, robotics, coding in all schools, a new elementary math program and civic awareness, with a focus on program sustainability. Manning said, “I truly feel blessed to work with a board committed to the vision and mission of the district, and you’ll see that reflected in the board goals.”

Manning noted that the district is in its third year of the program, and is featuring a new universal screener, a revised K-2 science program, project-based learning initiative and AP seminars. Additionally, the district hopes to bolster career awareness through summer internship options, and offer expanded club and athletic opportunities.

A key goal this year is to develop and distribute an anti-bias curriculum handbook and establish an anti-bias advisory committee. The district will set new goals to explore and identify K-12 programming that encourages students to apply critical thinking, reading and writing skills to interdisciplinary research projects, supporting their success in high school and beyond. The current STEAM programming — science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics — will be analyzed to ensure it meets student needs.

In addition, the new 2024 Capital Bond will fund security and facility enhancements. As well, the district will assess the costs associated with the Child Victims Act for future programming. The aim is to increase state aid and grant funding to support these improvements.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 18.

Photos of the Week: Labor Day weekend along the North Shore

by Bill Landon - September 6, 2024

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By Bill Landon

After early morning clouds, the skies cleared and the North Shore was treated to comfortable temperatures under brilliant sunshine with activities for all on Labor Day weekend.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society brings music and light to the town’s shores

by Toni-Elena Gallo - September 6, 2024

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By Toni-Elena Gallo

Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society held its 15th annual Music Fest on Saturday, Aug. 31. The event takes place each year between Huntington Bay and Lloyd Harbor and brings together lovers of the sea and lovers of rock ’n’ roll.

In 1985 the lighthouse was scheduled for demolition, but the nonprofit HLPS took it over and has worked to preserve and restore it ever since.

A variety of bands, ranging in genre from reggae to classic rock, played from 11 a.m. to dusk, at the top of Huntington Lighthouse, a historical landmark that has existed in its current incarnation since 1912, and housed the families of keepers from the 19th- to the early 20th century.

The unique design of this festival — it is only accessible by taking a boat for about a 10-minute ride out of Huntington Harbor — adds to the excitement it generates among boaters.

“We’ve got 1,500-plus boats here from Connecticut, New Jersey, Westchester, Rhode Island. They come from all over the place,” said Pam Setchell, president of the preservation society. “There is no music fest, anywhere in the world, that is performed on top of a working lighthouse. That’s the ace in the hole. As long as my roof is in good shape, we’re good,” she said with a laugh.

The Next Level, one of the festival’s acts, was thrilled to be back performing for the third time.

“It is awesome. We love playing here,” said Althea, the group’s lead singer.

And, to top off the day of festivities, lights illuminate the small lighthouse as dusk approaches, creating a colorful spectacle.

The festival was free to attend, and all proceeds from the 50/50 raffle went toward lighthouse restoration.

Plain Talk: Let’s keep cell phones out of the classroom

by Father Francis Pizzarelli - September 6, 2024

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By Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

It’s hard to believe that another school year has begun. I’ve started teaching again at Suffolk County Community College (SCCC). I have 35 extraordinary young men and women in my Introduction to Sociology class. That same week I started back at Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Service. I teach second-year students clinical practice. They inspire me to keep coming back because of their passion, compassion, and commitment to wanting to truly make a difference in the world. I’ve been taking the 6:09 a.m. train from Ronkonkoma every Tuesday morning for 21 years. I look forward to it.

In the first week of September, I return to St. Joseph’s University in Patchogue. I will be teaching social science and social work to undergraduates.

Since the pandemic, I have observed a number of things with all of my students, no matter what the school or their level. In general, their capacity for concentration seems to be clearly impaired. I find a growing number of students more anxious and more distracted. The most disturbing observation is how many students are obsessed with their cell phones.

Recently, I asked my 35 college coeds at SCCC if they would be willing to freely surrender their cell phones at the beginning of each class. There were three or four students who volunteered and said they would be willing. The request ended with a very powerful conversation regarding cell phones. Their self-awareness and their honesty were most impressive.

Many college coeds are beginning to see the damage that cell phone obsession and dependency is causing. I think we need to continue the conversation and confront this issue because of the tremendous impact it is having on the next generation of students.

It is no secret that mental health among our students is a real concern. Many school districts and our larger community have increased their social work and mental health staff. We need to continue to address with outrage that many still attack mental health and substance use disorders with disdain.

As the new school year begins, I would encourage all our local schools, pre-K through 12th grade, to prohibit cell phone possession and use on all school grounds. On the high school level, I think there are creative ways to keep cell phones out of instructional settings and allow students to have access to them at the end of the school day.

We no longer can ignore the evidence-based research that underscores how negatively cell phone access 24 hours a day is impacting on our youth. Hopefully, our school communities including parents, will have the courage to take this issue seriously and to acknowledge how this is impacting on our youth’s mental health.

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

Eye on the Street: Labor Day edition

by Toni-Elena Gallo - September 6, 2024

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By Toni-Elena Gallo

Labor Day is a time for families to come together and savor the final moments of summer. It’s one day when adults don’t have to think about working and kids don’t have to worry about the impending first day of school. So, this Labor Day, TBR News Media asked beachgoers at Lake Ronkonkoma how they were enjoying their day off.

Jenny, Corona

Jenny spent the day relaxing in the sand at Lake Ronkonkoma. She sunbathed, while watching her parents try their hand at catching some bass, pumpkinseed and perch. “We definitely take them home to eat. They’re delicious!” she shared. The family was very happy that Lake Ronkonkoma County Park was not too crowded. They were accompanied by their adorable dog, Bruno.

Katherine, Plainview

Katherine and her mother Josephine were looking for something different to do with Katherine’s young son, Michael. So, when “most things weren’t open,” the family decided to head to the lake and have a picnic. “Our dog, Rocky, is enjoying nature and Michael won’t keep his shoes on,” laughed Katherine

James, Ronkonkoma

James’ furry companion, Jake, loved every minute of ripping up his sand-riddled soccer ball. James was joined by family — including a little one who “loves Labor Day” — as they spent their day enjoying the sunshine and breeze.

Ava, East Meadow

Ava arrived with her husband and three kids to embark on a day of fishing. Equipped with their rods and beach chairs, the family was eager to give it a shot.

Diana, Ronkonkoma

*From left to right: Diana’s friend. her son and Diana.*

Diana was with her two children, and was joined by her best friend, and her son. She said that they “were having a phenomenal day” at Lt. Michael P. Murphy Memorial Park, as they took photos near the water. “My son has autism and loves being at the lake. It makes him very happy,” said Diana’s friend.

Emily Augulis, Bohemia

Emily shared that she spent her Saturday in Sag Harbor, with her mother, Milynn. Together, they perused the shops, chatted and admired some of the luxury boats docked in Sag Harbor Bay. “It was a really beautiful way to spend Labor Day Weekend, and [Sag Harbor] is such a nice town,” Emily said.

Maddie Pittigher, San Diego

Maddie spent this Labor Day in San Diego, as she prepares to start her computational biology, doctoral program, in the coming weeks. But, her family provided us with a few thoughts her daughter relayed, about spending her first holiday across the coast. She snorkeled and took in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.“I had such a beautiful time at the beach. It was a great day to just relax, take time for myself and think about the sacrifices of those who work every day.” Maddie said that if she were back home on the Island, “she would be eating burgers and hot dogs” in her family’s backyard.

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Cruise Night Car Show at the Shoppes at East Wind attracts the classics

NEVER FORGET: North Shore communities commemorate 9/11

SCCC empowers future workforce with innovative summer camps and workforce training programs

Lake Grove gets a fresh take on yoga with YogaSix

Three Village Rotary to host Light Up Main Street fundraiser

Harborfields BOE advances next phase of excellence program, as new school year begins

Photos of the Week: Labor Day weekend along the North Shore

Huntington Lighthouse Preservation Society brings music and light to the town’s shores

Plain Talk: Let’s keep cell phones out of the classroom

Eye on the Street: Labor Day edition

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