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Motorcycle deaths increase in the summer. METRO photo

AAA urges increased vigilance during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

As warm weather finally blankets the Northeast, road users are getting out more — including motorcyclists. Unfortunately, this brings a sharp increase in fatal crashes involving motorcycles. An analysis by AAA Northeast of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data from the last decade found that almost 60% of motorcyclist fatalities occur between May and September.

Motorcyclist fatalities in the U.S. continue to trend dangerously upward. There were 6,335 motorcyclists killed in 2023, representing 15% of all traffic fatalities, according to NHTSA. This came despite motorcycles making up only one percent of all the miles traveled in the U.S. This was the highest number of motorcyclists killed since 1975, the earliest year of available data.

“The continued increase in motorcyclist fatalities is especially troubling given that most categories of traffic fatalities decreased from 2022 to 2023, while motorcyclist deaths continued their dangerous climb,” said Robert Sinclair of AAA Northeast. “As we all take to the roads more frequently during warmer weather, drivers must keep in mind that staying alert and aware is critical to improving safety, especially as motorcycles can be more difficult to see because of their size.”

NY: In New York, there were 188 fatal crashes involving motorcycles in 2023, according to the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research.

NJ: In New Jersey, there were 76 fatal crashes involving motorcycles in 2023, according to Numetric’s crash data repository.

CT: In Connecticut, there were 55 fatal crashes involving motorcycles in 2023, according to the Connecticut Crash Data Repository.

AAA offers the following tips for drivers:

  • Increase following distance and take extra care when driving behind a motorcycle, especially when stopping or accelerating.
  • Carefully check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, which are less visible than other vehicles on the road.
  • If a motorcyclist has their turn signal on, wait to make sure they actually turn before passing them. The turn signals on many motorcycles do not turn off automatically, so there’s a chance they could be activated from an earlier maneuver.
  • Never drive distracted. At 55 mph, taking your eyes off the road for just 5 seconds is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

AAA Northeast is a not-for-profit auto club with offices in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, New Hampshire and New York, providing nearly 6.8 million local AAA members with travel, insurance, financial and auto-related services.

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Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown
Town of Smithtown collected Over 37.2 Tons of Hazardous Waste from 651 households on April 26. Photo courtesy Town of Smithtown

The Town of Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways, in coordination with the Municipal Services Facility, collected over 37 tons of hazardous waste during the annual Earth Day Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event on Saturday, April 26. A total of 651 households safely disposed of thousands of pounds of toxic materials that cannot be placed in regular curbside pickup—making this one of the most successful collection events to date.

“As we marked Earth Day last week, it was truly uplifting to witness our community unite in record numbers for the first of three Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events this year. Thanks to the dedication of our environmentally conscious residents—and the exceptional teamwork of the MSF staff, Public Safety Fire Marshals, DEW crew, Reworld (formerly Covanta), and our trusted contractor Radiac—we are actively protecting Smithtown’s drinking water, parks, air, and treasured waterways for future generations… These free events, held three times a year, give every resident the opportunity to make a meaningful impact—and this year, Smithtown rose to the occasion like never before,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

“I want to personally recognize our outstanding department leaders, including Solid Waste Coordinator Mike Englemann, Environmental Director David Barnes, MSF Director Matt Laux, DEW Senior Analyst Rich Kitt, MSF Foreman Tommy Passariello, Environmental Technician Brooke Ferreira, and our dedicated partner at Reworld, Brian Aerne. Their commitment ensures a safe, efficient, and even enjoyable experience for all who participate… Beyond collection day, these initiatives help foster a culture of sustainability and responsibility throughout our community. Together, we’re preserving the natural beauty and quality of life that make Smithtown such an extraordinary place to live,” added Wehrheim.

This year’s event was made possible through the tremendous collaboration and support of the Town’s Department of Public Safety Fire Marshals, DEW staff, and Reworld (formerly Covanta). Their efforts supplemented the work of Radiac Environmental Services, the Town’s licensed HHW contractor, to ensure a safe, efficient, and seamless experience for all residents.

Additionally, the Town saw record participation in a targeted waste diversion initiative focused on propane tanks, lithium-ion batteries, and mercury-containing devices, demonstrating a growing community commitment to environmental safety and sustainability.

“The 2025 Earth Day Hazardous Household Waste collection event was a great success. The rain didn’t stop hundreds of residents from responsibly disposing of potentially hazardous chemicals and products. Participating in the Town’s Hazardous Household Waste collection events profoundly impacts protecting our drinking water, air, and natural resources while enabling the Town to maintain high-quality parks, recreational facilities, roads, and waterways for all residents to enjoy.  Special thanks to Supervisor Ed Wehrheim for his support and leadership on environmental initiatives such as these, MSF staff, Public Safety Fire Marshals, DEW staff, and Reworld staff (formerly Covanta) for supplementing the work of Radiac (HHW contractor) and providing safe and efficient service to all residents. We continue to encourage residents to consider using environmentally friendly alternatives for in and around the home,” said Michael P. Engelmann, P.G. Solid Waste Coordinator for the Town of Smithtown.

A portion of the wastes collected for manifested disposal include: mercury, waste oil based paints/ flammable paints, gasoline, paint thinners, waste gases, petroleum distillates, flammable solids, oxidizers liquids and solids, sodium/potassium nitrates, acids, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, misc. toxic liquids (i.e. Chlordane, etc.) and solids, lacquers, lithium batteries, battery acids and various other toxic compounds.

Reworld (formerly Covanta) distributed over 150  $5 Home Depot gift cards to residents for recycling potentially dangerous lithium-ion and other batteries, propane tanks and mercury containing devices thereby preventing these harmful items from curbside disposal.  112 propane tanks were recovered at the event.  Record participation with these hazardous waste diversions.

Additionally, eco-friendly reusable coffee k-cups were also provided by DEW to interested residents.

The next household hazardous waste collection events are scheduled for July 12th & October 4th, 2025. Hazardous Household Waste collection events are for Smithtown Township residents only. Proof of residency will be confirmed upon entry.

DID YOU KNOW?: 

Residents can also dispose of electronic waste, free of charge, at the Town Recycling Center located at 85 Old Northport Road. Electronic waste, such as computers, printers, TV’s, monitors, automotive and household batteries, can be dropped off during regular hours for proper recycling.

FREE MULCH: Mulch is also available free of charge to residents. Smithtown residents can line up for pre-packaged bags of mulch with a maximum of 10 bags per visit. We offer free loading of loose mulch into your pick-up or dump truck. A cover is required.

The Smithtown Municipal Services Facility is located at 85 Old Northport Road in Kings Park, NY.

Regular Operating Hours: Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

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Legislator Kennedy (third from right) alongside the paving crew from Rosemar Construction. Photo courtesy Legislator Kennedy’s office

On Thursday, April 24, Leslie Kennedy  (R-Nesconset) visited a Rosemar Construction paving crew while they were repaving the Blydenburgh County Park South Entrance Way. The section of road spans from the entrance on Veterans Memorial Highway in Hauppauge all the way to the Dog Park at Blydenburgh Park. This paving was funded through a 2025 Capital Project grant filed by the Legislator last spring.

“This project has really been 30 years overdue. Blydenburgh has been through a lot in the past year, and this is just one of the many projects we’re working on to make Blydenburgh the park it deserves to be,” said Legislator Kennedy.

Not only is the park actively used for canine recreation, but it is home to a number of camping sites, an interactive playground, numerous hiking trails used by the Long Island Green Belt Trail Group, but it also became home to the Hauppauge Vietnam Veterans Memorial last summer.

When the Stump Pond Dam is re-constructed, once again boating, canoeing, kayaking and freshwater fishing will be restored.

The road paving is just one of many Capital Projects Legislator Kennedy submitted last year. Some of the highlights of last year’s capital projects from the office of the 12th legislative district include but are not limited to silt remediation across the twelfth legislative district, funding for sidewalks in Smithtown and Brookhaven, $2.5 million in funds to repair and replace the weir and sluice way at Miller’s Pond, and $6.5 million to repair and replace the dam at Stump Pond in Blydenburgh County Park.

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Friends of the Greenway Chairman Charlie McAteer (left) and cleanup day volunteer David Wang (right) sort through debris from the trail. Photo by Caroline O’Callaghan

By Caroline O’Callaghan

On the morning of April 19, the Three Village Community Trust Friends of the Greenway gathered for its first monthly cleanup of the season, at the entrance of the New York State Department of Transportation parking lot in Port Jefferson Station.

Friends of the Greenway steward and cleanup day volunteer Susan Colatosti collects litter. Photo by Caroline O’Callaghan

Volunteers contributed their thoughts on how to best protect the environment of the almost 3-mile-long trail. Charlie McAteer, chairman of Friends of the Greenway, explained how waste management is dispersed among various municipalities throughout the trail. “When you talk about garbage cans, that’s a town garbage can, and that is collected by the town during the weekly garbage pickup,” McAteer said, pointing to a garbage can on a corner at the start of the trail.

“This is a NYSDOT garbage can, and they’ll come pick it up accordingly,” McAteer continued to explain, now pointing to the DOT’s garbage can be situated in the parking lot. 

The majority of the cross streets at the Greenway Trail have town garbage cans on each corner, which helps to reduce the mounting litter that gets accumulated during the off-season. However, some volunteers have resorted to handling the issue on their own, according to Greenway Trail steward of 20 years Susan Colatosti. 

“Whether it’s Earth Day or not, I’m out here. I walk it almost every day, and pick up litter as I go,” Colatosti said. When asked if plans to get more garbage cans for the trail were in the works, Colatosti stated that it was unlikely. “It’s already a job to get the town carter to pick them up on a regular basis. I’m sure they don’t want the responsibility of picking up more cans. Occasionally, I monitor it and I check if they haven’t been emptied, and I reach out to them [the town] to come and empty the overflowing garbage. I don’t think more cans are going to happen, but at least we have cans at most of the crossings, which is a big help.” 

Photo by Caroline O’Callaghan

In recent years, the trail has been extended to the North Shore Rail Trail in Wading River, which has prompted more organizations and town officials to get involved in its upkeep. Rotary Club of Port Jefferson Rotarian Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay (D, NY4) came out to the cleanup to volunteer with her dog, Utah.

Kassay revealed a potential project to support cleanup efforts further, “I’ve been talking about an inter-rotary effort to perhaps put more dog bag stations throughout the Greenway — all the way from East Setauket well-beyond Port Jefferson, out East in the ‘new leg’ [Wading River] of the Greenway. It’s great to be a part of a group that’s just keeping this beautiful safe place for people to recreate and keep improving upon it.” 

Many of the volunteers who came out to the event were residents who expressed concern for the wildlife in which the trail houses, such as Friends of the Greenway Aaron Hoffman. “There’s tons of deer and birds. They have a beautiful life here,” said Hoffman, adding that the accessibility of the trail has allowed him to experience and stay connected to Port Jefferson Station. “Hopefully we can keep the Greenway around for years because not only do the animals need it, but we need it for our peace and serenity.”

For more information visit the Community Trust website: www.threevillagecommunitytrust.org.

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Owner Sara DiFalco with some of the items in her shop. Photo by Juianne Mosher
My Little Bestie in East Setauket. Photo by Julianne Mosher
My Little Bestie in East Setauket. Photo by Julianne Mosher
My Little Bestie in East Setauket. Photo by Julianne Mosher
My Little Bestie in East Setauket. Photo by Julianne Mosher

By Julianne Mosher

If you have a little one in your life, My Little Bestie is about to be your little bestie.

The store, which opened in East Setauket in November of last year, is celebrating six months of being in business and owner Sara DiFalco said it’s been one of the best rides she has ever been on.

Located at 248 Main Street, the shop has two purposes: In the front, a colorful boutique of everything a mama and child needs decorate shelves and displays. As you head to the back of the store, racks of clothing, accessories and toys, donated by other mamas and caregivers, are available for purchase—basically a tiny thrift store with brand names to help families who may not be able to afford luxury. 

“I love thrifting,” DiFalco laughed, “But I also love new stuff.”

To combine the best of both worlds, DiFalco’s business model allows families to donate bags of their preowned items. There are specific criterion, like no stains, holes or heavy wear, and it can’t be from a retailer of fast fashion like Old Navy, Target or Walmart. After DiFalco examines and approves each piece, the donator is given 50% off items in the store for the next 30 days.

“It’s really nice because our kids grow out of things and we never know what to do with them,” she said.

After the donation is made, then it’s time to shop for something new. Tote bags, book, puzzles, toys, home décor and clothing for mom, baby and child. DiFalco said that all the new clothing she sells is organically made by small batch retailers and are almost entirely eco-friendly.

“People tell me that they have never seen a store like this before that has luxury in the front and thrifting in the back,” she said. 

Originally from Toronto, Canada, DiFalco moved to Deer Park with her now-husband more than a decade ago. She worked in retail, but soon after having her daughter, who is now two years old, she decided she wanted to be her own boss. After searching the Island for the perfect spot to open a brick-and-mortar shop, she stumbled across Setauket and fell in love with the area.

“There’s nothing like this around and it’s so needed,” she said. 

Along with becoming her own boss and making her own schedule, DiFalco wanted to create a community for moms out there. Since opening My Little Bestie, she said many of her customers have become her friends, bonding over their love for shopping and embracing motherhood. DiFalco loves the North Shore so much, she and her family are moving to Smithtown this summer. 

Named for her daughter, Athena, who DiFalco says is her “little bestie,” the store has constant revolving inventory and a plentiful online shop to order from. 

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My LIttle Bestie is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Mondays. For more information, please call 631-800-9800 or visit www.mylittlebestie.shop.

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Above, a representative from Snyder Wealth Group with a potential customer at last year's event. Photo by Miranda Gatewood
A scene from last year's Strictly Business trade show at the Middle Country Public Library. Photo by Miranda Gatewood
A scene from last year's Strictly Business trade show at the Middle Country Public Library. Photo by Miranda Gatewood
A scene from last year's Strictly Business trade show at the Middle Country Public Library. Photo by Miranda Gatewood
A scene from last year's Strictly Business trade show at the Middle Country Public Library. Photo by Miranda Gatewood
A scene from last year's Strictly Business trade show at the Middle Country Public Library. Photo by Miranda Gatewood
From left, Sal DiVincenzo, coordinator, Digital Services, MCPL; Sophia Serlis-McPhillips, director, MCPL; Kevin LaValle, Brookhaven Town Clerk; and Ryan Gessner, assistant director, MCPL at last year's event. Photo by Miranda Gatewood

From Middle Country Public Library

According to the business advocacy organization, Long Island Association, 90% of businesses on Long Island are small businesses. In today’s competitive market, small businesses need every possible advantage to thrive. Membership in the local chamber of commerce is a great way to become a part of the community and networking events like Strictly Business, being held on Tuesday, May 6 at the Middle Country Public Library in Centereach, help get them in front of potential customers and collaborators. 

More than 17 years ago, representatives from the Miller Business Center at the Middle Country Public Library, the Brookhaven Chambers of Commerce Coalition and the Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce met to brainstorm how they could offer even more opportunities to their members. What could be done to help them meet potential clients and connect with other small businesses and entrepreneurs? Knowing that the cost of big events can be prohibitive, Strictly Business was born! 

It is more than a just a trade show or networking event—it is a catalyst for economic development for local businesses in the area. 

Lenore Paprocky, President of the Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce, captures what small businesses mean to the region when she says, “Small businesses are the backbone of Long Island, driving our economy and strengthening our communities. B2B (business to business) networking isn’t just about connections—it’s about collaboration, growth, and building a thriving local community where businesses support each other and succeed together.”

This is the heart of Chamber of Commerce membership. When small businesses join their local chamber, they gain access to a network that is committed to mutual success, advocacy, and shared progress.

That network includes community resources to help with training, mentorship, research and more. The Miller Business Center at the Middle Country Public Library connects with small businesses at the many chamber meetings and events they attend. 

“The Miller Business Center is a part of the local business eco-system,” says Middle Country Public Library director Sophia Serlis-McPhillips. “Not only do we plan and run Strictly Business, we also offer assistance all year with our programming and business research.”  

With Strictly Business, small businesses have a unique opportunity to showcase their offerings directly to potential customers and collaborators. These kinds of opportunities can lead to long-term business relationships, client growth, and community recognition. The event also serves as a powerful reminder of the shared mission among local businesses. 

Barbara Ransome, President of the Brookhaven Chambers of Commerce Coalition and a small business owner explains that, “The original intention for creating a Strictly Business event was to support our small business communities; that remains the same. This trade show provides a cohesive platform for our Chambers of Commerce partners to participate in networking with one another. They are brought together to share in a unified voice common goals and concerns as well as creating NEW business opportunities and finding that there is strength in numbers.”

This “strength in numbers” idea is a driving force behind the Chamber of Commerce model. When businesses stand together, they amplify their influence. Returning Strictly Business exhibitor, Carmine Inserra, CEO of ProSysCon Computer Technologies, Inc., says, “It’s always advantageous for business owners to be around others who are working on their businesses and Strictly Business is a great way to connect and to have so many successful businesses in one place.” This sentiment underscores the importance of shared energy and collaboration. 

Sponsorship from major institutions like TD Bank shows just how much the broader community values these events. Maryellen Ferretti, TD Bank Retail Market Manager, S.V.P. shared that it is “committed to empowering local businesses and fostering economic growth. Strictly Business is a great way to show this commitment as the event offers valuable networking opportunities and resources for entrepreneurs and professionals in the community.” The involvement of such stakeholders is a testament to the real economic impact that local businesses have—and how vital it is to invest in their success.

In the end, the Strictly Business trade show is more than just a day of networking— it is an introduction to the larger economic environment of Long Island. 

The 17th annual Strictly Business trade show will take place on Tuesday, May 6 at the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees have the opportunity to enter a raffle for the chance to win a $250 gift card. Admission is free and there is ample free parking. For more information, call 631-585-9393 x216.

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File photo by Raymond Janis

Problems for the Bess Task Force 

We now have a newly formed BESS Task Force, assembled for the purpose of evaluating the safety risks of proposed lithium-ion battery systems, apparently concentrating on thermal runaway. One issue that should be addressed by the Task Force is the effect of the discharge efficiency of the battery, which may lead to significant heating in the battery systems. One example is the system proposed by New Leaf Energy, which will provide 8.75 MW of power for 4 hours. Based on experience, a typical lithium-ion battery discharge efficiency is 10-15%. To be conservative, let us assume a discharge efficiency of 15%. Thus, if 8.75 MW is delivered to the external loads (or homes) for 4 hours, the internal power dissipated in the BESS is 1.54 MW. The BESS must have a cooling system capable of removing the heat generated by this power, to prevent the internal temperatures of the BESS cells from reaching temperatures capable of causing thermal runaway.

Although the occurrence of thermal runaway is clearly a cause for concern, it appears that the attention of the BESS Task Force will address only peaker applications, which will remain powered primarily by “fossil fuel” plants. But problems that are much more serious, and much more complex, will be encountered when we attempt to achieve an emissions-free economy, possibly by 2050. If we attempt to accomplish this by utilizing only solar arrays and windmills as our source of power, we will inevitably face the possibility of blackouts, subject to the available activity levels of the sun and wind. By drastic increases in the size and complexity of our solar arrays, windmills and BESS installations, the probability of a blackout can be decreased, but not eliminated entirely. Once the BESS Peaker Task Force has completed their analysis and issued their report, perhaps they can redirect their attention to this problem.  

George Altemose 

Setauket

WRITE TO US … AND KEEP IT LOCAL  

We welcome your letters, especially those responding to our local coverage, replying to other letter writers’ comments and speaking mainly to local themes. Letters should be no longer than 400 words and may be edited for length, libel, style, good taste and uncivil language. They will also be published on our website. We do not publish anonymous letters. Please include an address and phone number for confirmation. Email letters to: [email protected] or mail them to TBR News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733

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Metro Photo

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief,
Publisher

Happy May 1st! 

Just saying that puts a smile on my face. Why? Because May carries the promise of sunny days, blue skies, brilliantly colored flowers on bushes and trees along with baby green leaves, and birdsong everywhere. I know I can just walk out of my house in my indoor clothing and find the perfect temperature outdoors. I won’t need boots or a parka or even a heavy sweater, just maybe a light rain jacket. The world, my world, for this month, is a perfectly furnished place.

That is not to say that the many troubles in current events don’t cause concern. They surely do. But Nature can help offset some of the anxiety with her splendid technicolor show and demonstration of hope and rebirth.

Another positive beacon is a guy named Roger Rosenblatt. He wrote a column for The New York Times on April 13th headlined, “10 Tips for Being Happily 85 Years Old (Like Me).” I’ll share some of them with you, regardless of your age, because they are applicable to all, but first you must shut off the news—whether on radio or television or your cellphone. Let’s just focus on happiness.

The first of his points is probably the best: Nobody’s thinking about you.

“Nobody ever will. Not your teacher, not your minister, not your colleagues, not your shrink, not a soul. It can be a bummer of a thought. But it’s also liberating. That time you fell on your butt in public? That dumb comment you made at dinner last week? That brilliant book you wrote? No one is thinking about it. Others are thinking about themselves. Just like you.” (Of course, that statement doesn’t apply to parents, who regularly think about children.)

A few of his other heartfelt recommendations include get a dog, don’t hear the cheers (about how wonderful you are, just live the life you’re living), know that everyone’s in pain (of some sort) so be kind, look for the exceptional qualities in others, join a group with mutual interests so you stay social, and just live with your regrets (a part of every life). He also advises starting and ending each day by listening to Louis Armstrong—or your equivalent pick-me-upper.

(Just for those reading this who ARE 85 or thereabouts, he does advise making young friends because they are enthusiastic and don’t know when you are telling them lies, and urges that you try to see fewer than 5 doctors because it takes so much time and is depressing if they are your only social life.)

I can also share some upcoming events that make me happy to anticipate. 

Most immediately, my youngest grandson is graduating from college this month. Not only is this a lovely achievement for him, it provides us, the family on both sides of the parents, a chance to get together and catch up with everyone’s lives.

Another joyful occurrence will be a visit from my California cousin, who is coming east in June to celebrate his 65th birthday. I love celebrating birthdays and I also love having visitors. The latter seem to like coming out to stay at our house.

You may not think so, but another singular event next month to which I look forward will be the arrival (finally!) of the plumber to repair an incessant bathroom leak.

Then there are the birthdays of two sons in July, which they will spend here among the whole crew, who will arrive with their bathing suits, and their return in August for another round of birthday observances.

In September I look forward to the resumption of perfect weather and rest.

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Celebrate Astronomy Day at the Vanderbilt Museum on May 3. Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt Museum
PROGRAMS

Thankful Thursdays

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Thankful Thursdays series with a free family-friendly planetarium show titled Earth, Moon and Sun on May 1 at 7 p.m. After the show, an astronomy educator will invite you to look through a telescope at the night sky (weather permitting). Recommended for ages 8 and up. For complimentary tickets, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. 

Books in the Barn

Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent/giver are invited to Books in the Barn, a free storytime event about farms, barns and animals at the Smithtown Historical Society’s Franklin O. Arthur Farm, 245 East Main St., Smithtown on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. To register, call the Smithtown Library at 631-360-2480, ext. 213. 

Spring Festival at the Hatchery

Rescheduled from April 26. Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents a Spring Festival fundraiser on May 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with kid’s fishing, food, music, games, environmental exhibitors and live animal encounters. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Caterpillars and Critters

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket presents a kids workshop, Caterpillars and Critters on May 3 from 10 a.m. to noon. Children will learn about bugs and critters that live in and help the garden grow, make and take home a foot long caterpillar that will grow into a flower garden, visit the farm gardens, take a tour of the farm and a tractor ride too! For ages 3 to 8. $40 per child. To register, call 631-689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

Astronomy Day

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will celebrate Astronomy Day 2025 on May 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include exciting science, take-home materials, the use of solar telescopes and engaging discussions about astronomy. Participants will create nebula spin art, investigate constellations, explore craters, and much more! Activities are included with planetarium show tickets and general admission to the Museum grounds. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

Open Play at the Explorium

Join the Long Island Explorium, 101A East Broadway, Port Jefferson for Open Play on May 3 and May 4 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Celebrate STEM with hands-on activities, crafts and more. Admission fee is $6 per child, $8 per adult. 631-331-3277

All Paws on Deck

Calling all cat lovers! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents All Paws on Deck, a day of feline festivities on May 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn the hiss-tory of ship cats, test your feline knowledge in game of cat trivia, create kitty crafts, including catnip toys, go on a kitty scavenger hunt in the gallery, enjoy feline face painting and meet and play with adorable, adoptable cats. The purr-fect way to celebrate all things cat.  Admission is $10 per person. 631-367-3418

Sunday Funday: Baby Shower for Wildlife – Just added!

You’re invited to a baby shower for wildlife at Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown on May 4 from 1 pm. to 3 p.m. Hundreds of young wild animals will rely on the Center for lifesaving care. Your gift during the Wildlife Baby Shower will ensure the smallest animals who need help — from squirrels and bunnies to hummingbirds and ducklings — get the nourishment and medical care they need to thrive. At the event you will meet some of the Center’s ambassador animals and learn about why they are permanent residents. Best for families with children ages 4 and up. $15 per child,  $5 per adult. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Homeschool Hangout

Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a get-together designed for homeschooled children on May 7 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can relax, socialize, and build friendships in a welcoming environment with creative group crafts, experiments and activities. No registration required. Open to all kids ages 5 to 12 years old. Questions? Email [email protected]

THEATER

A Royal Princess Party

Tickets are now on sale for A Royal Princess Party: A Villainous Tale of Magic! at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from April 12 to May 4. The princesses return to the Royal Kingdom of Smithtown. Special surprises and magical touches make this show a royal treat! Tickets are $17.50 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson celebrates Spring with the return of The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 16 to May 10 at 11 a.m. With the help of his sisters—Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail—and his cousin, Benjamin Bunny, Peter Rabbit learns the power of sharing and caring in this adorable musical. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

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Yogi and Richie. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Animal Shelter
Richie
Yogi

MEET YOGI AND RICHIE!

This week’s featured shelter pets are Yogi and Richie at the Smithtown Animal Shelter, an inseparable and heart-melting duo with a bond built on love, loyalty, and pure joy. These charming boys—Yogi, a handsome blue Chow mix, and Richie, a silver and tan Yorkie mix—were brought to the shelter on April 14, 2025, after their owner sadly became too ill to care for them. Estimated to be born in 2022, Yogi and Richie are approximately three years old and looking for a forever home where they can stay side by side.

Yogi is mostly blind and relies on Richie as his guide. Their companionship is not just touching—it’s a true testament to the healing power of animal friendship. Richie confidently helps his best friend navigate the world, and together, they bring smiles to everyone they meet.

These boys are bursting with affection for people and each other. They are good with other dogs and cats, and would thrive in a home with children aged 12 and up, given Yogi’s visual impairment. Despite his blindness, Yogi is full of spirit and thrives with Richie at his side.

If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a pair of joyful, bonded brothers who will return your love tenfold, Yogi and Richie are ready to meet you!

If you are interested in meetingYogi and Richie, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in the shelter’s Meet and Greet room.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open 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.

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