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Photo by Aidan Johnson
By Aidan Johnson

After 20 years of residing at 242 E. Main St., Port Jefferson, Toast Coffeehouse has relocated to Port Jefferson Station. Formerly Mr. P’s Southern Skillet, the new location at 650 Route 112 provides a significantly bigger space.

Owners Terry and Jen Scarlatos. Photo by Aidan Johnson

“As we’ve expanded into other locations, our model has changed, and we were struggling in the smaller spot,” Terry Scarlatos, the owner of Toast, explained. 

The Port Jeff location, which was the first venue that Scarlatos ever opened, originally had less than 10 employees, along with family members who helped out. “It was very much a family business with my brother, my wife and my mother,” he said. “I think we had seven employees in addition, and now we have over 160.”

Moving into the new location was no easy feat. The space had housed many restaurants through the years, and each added something new. Scarlatos ended up bringing it back down to the bare walls and studs, replacing nearly everything. 

Lauren Farmer, hostess at Toast. Photo by Aidan Johnson

“It started out looking like it was not going to be much, but as we dug a little bit deeper we realized there was a lot of neglect,” he said.

While the grand opening of the new location was held Wednesday, Aug. 17, there was a soft opening the day prior, supplying family and invited guests with free food and allowing the staff to get into the groove of working at the new location. “So far I feel like we have been well received. We’ve got a lot of positive feedback,” Scarlatos said.

While many are excited for Toast’s new location, some people have been left feeling blue by the departure from the old spot. “A lot of people in the village are heartbroken, as I am,” Scarlatos said. “It was not an easy decision to move, being that Port Jefferson and the village have been so great to me over the years.” 

Waitress Natalie Malandrino. Photo by Aidan Johnson

Operations manager Melissa Reinheimer shared the bittersweet feeling surrounding the move, as there were 20 years of memories baked into the walls of the Lower Port restaurant. However, the new location offers a fresh aesthetic, bringing elements of a rustic farmhouse rather than a coffee shop. 

“It’s super exciting,” Reinheimer said. “There’s a lot of unique touches and historical pieces peppered throughout that I’ve had the privilege of going and finding and sourcing in the Northeast, so it’s nice to have little pieces of America spread out.”

Customers Leon and Sylvia Felsher are ready to order their first meal at the new location. Photo by Aidan Johnson

As friends and family chowed down, everyone seemed in high spirits. Kelly Black, one of the people in attendance, enjoyed cookie dough pancakes, along with a garden gourmet egg skillet. 

“The food is even better when you thought it couldn’t get better,” Black said. “It’s amazing and more comfortable. The decorations are gorgeous, but it still has that cozy feel.”

Even though Toast Coffeehouse may be leaving its original location, Scarlatos is not. He is currently working on opening a new nighttime experience in the Port Jefferson location, which he plans to make into the perfect date spot. He expects this venture to open within five to six weeks.

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Photo courtesy of MacIntyre Purcell Publishing Inc.

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Looking for an entertaining summer read? A lightweight coffee table book? A terrific celebration of Long Island? Written by Stacy Mandel Kaplan, Kimberly Towers, Scott J. Mandel, and Jordan Kaplan, Hey Long Island … Do U Remember? (MacIntyre Purcell Publishing Inc.) is a fun, informative tome, blending a diverse collection of photos with fascinating anecdotes. The project began in 2008 when the authors started a Facebook group for the sharing of pictures and the history of Long Island. The group has since grown to more than 159,000 members. 

The book opens with a quick Long Island overview — a did you know?: geography, legal status, etc. Following this, the authors present a brief timeline, beginning with Long Island’s formation from a glacier in 19,000 BC and quickly working up to December 14, 2020, when the first vaccine was given in the United States, at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, in New Hyde Park. This thumbnail sketch sites the building of the Long Beach Boardwalk (1914); The Big Duck, off Route 24, in Flanders (1931); Levittown, the first modern American suburb (1947); the invention of the first video game (1958); the Blizzard of 1978; and the founding of the Long Island Ducks baseball team (2000), among other particulars.

On page ten, the book proper begins with Bald Hill in Farmingville. Each one- or two-page spread covers a different place, person, or event. With over 130 black-and-white photos       — many seen here for the first time — Hey Long Island … Do U Remember? is a delightful collective history of the place that over eight million people call home. 

One of the book’s many joys is opening at any point and working in any direction. The book requires no specific course, and the reader can dive in at will. For example, on page 14, one can read about the Bethpage Air Show. On page 75, details are offered on the “Sweet Hollow Creamery and Milk Home Delivery on Long Island.” On page 87 there is the “Riviera Bath Club.” Turn the page to have the author’s take on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Some pieces neatly build on others. “The Fashion Industry on Long Island” segues into “Fashion Trends on Long Island.” The latter starts with a portrait of the patriotic-influenced clothing of the Word War II 1940s. It travels through the media-influenced 1960s, moving onto the bold 1970s and the MTV 1980s. The authors’ crisp prose paints vivid images in a few short strokes.

The creators beautifully shape each entry, knowing when to allow the visuals to take the primary focus. “Charles Lindbergh’s Historic Flight” is dominated by a photo of the Spirit of St. Louis spanning a page and a half. They provide the most basic information (the flight from Roosevelt Field, Garden City, to Paris, the 3,600 mile/thirty-three-hour flight) and let the image carry the power. The prose-centric on “Airfields and Airports” is next, followed naturally by “Cradle of Aviation.” 

Cultural nods range from the band Ninedays, Jones Beach Theater, and the Ray Romano house to Port Washington’s Beacon Theatre and the Long Island Musical Hall of Fame. Oheka Castle warrants three pages with incredible photos, including an aerial view of the castle and another of the gardens and reflecting pool. “Houses of Worship” spans five pages and offers a complete range of religious denominations. There are a plethora of parks and preserves (“Tanner Park,” “Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park and Children’s Zoo,” “Eisenhower Park,” “Muttontown Preserve,” “Bethpage State Park”) and restaurants (“Nathan’s Famous,” “Wetson’s,” “Pastosa Ravioli,” “Frank’s Steaks” and the “Lincoln Inn”). 

The book celebrates a varied and fascinating cross-section: everything from Grumman, Newsday, Superstorm Sandy, and the LIRR, to the Montauk Lighthouse, Whisper the Smithtown Bull, the Hope Sculpture, and the World’s Fair … Sagamore Hill and Sam Ash … the beaches, the festivals, the parades. And, of course, no book on Long Island is complete without at least a reference to poet Walt Whitman, as writer and icon. 

The authors smartly present enough information to cover each subject and stimulate interest. In addition to casual reading, the book is ideal for the classroom. Students could utilize the book to gain general knowledge on various events, ideas, and themes and then select topics to explore further and in-depth. 

Hey Long Island … Do U Remember? is a wonderful book and terrific addition to the library of works honoring the rich Long Island narrative. Order a copy today  at www.barnesandnoble.com, www.amazon.com, or your favorite online retailer.

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The cast, from left, Ari Spiegel, Derek Hough, Cassidy Gill and Alexa Oliveto. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

The children’s picture book Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems was an instant success when it was released in 2004 and won the Caldecott Honor in 2005. The story, based on the author’s 3-year-old daughter Trixie and her favorite stuffed animal, was followed by two sequels, Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity and Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion as well as an animated short film.

The cast, from left, Ari Spiegel, Derek Hough, Cassidy Gill and Alexa Oliveto.
Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

Now the Smithtown Performing Arts Center pays homage to the award-winning book with a children’s theater production of Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical. With script and lyrics by Mo Willems and music by Michael Silversher, it  begins as Dad suggests that Mom take a trip to the spa while he takes their rambunctious pre-verbal daughter Trixie to the neighborhood laundromat. While Mom is hesitant, Dad insists he is up to the job. “It’s just one load of laundry. What could go wrong?”

Mom reminds Dad to make sure Trixie takes along her favorite stuffed animal, Knuffle Bunny, and the adventure begins.

Dad and Trixie walk through their neighborhood, through the park and into the laundromat. Dad decides to go home to fix Trixie a snack but as they head back to the house things take a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes she has lost Knuffle Bunny. Can she make Dad understand what’s wrong? Will he be able to save the day?

Expertly directed by Evan Donnellan with musical direction by Robbie Torries, the four-member cast does a flawless job conveying the funny, silly, engaging and fast-paced story. 

Derek Hough, last seen on SPAC’s stage as Sebastian in The Little Mermaid, is incredible in the role of a clueless but well-meaning Dad and Alexa Oliveto shines in her role as the all-knowing Mom. Their duet “[Life Is] Tricky With Trixie” kicks off the show and sets the tone for a fun afternoon. 

Cassidy Gill is wonderful in the role of a frustrated Trixie and plays her character with infinite energy. While Trixie desperately attempts to communicate with her solo “Aggle Flaggle Klabble” and acts out by going “boneless,” she surprises everyone at the end with her first real word. Can you guess what it is? 

A versatile Ari Spiegel rounds out the cast and plays numerous supporting roles including a pigeon and a giant Knuffle Bunny.

A nice touch is the constantly changing screen in the background, from the exterior and interior of the family’s home to the laundromat and even a video of a fire truck driving by.

In the end, the show reminds us of the amazing lengths parents will go through for their children and that is worth the trip.

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical on Aug. 19 at 6 p.m., Aug. 20 at 2 p.m., Sept. 1 and 2 at 6 p.m. and Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. Running time is one hour with no intermission and snacks and drinks will be sold before the show. All seats are $18. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

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Catch an outdoor screening of Spider Man: No Way Home at Deepwells Farm County Park in St. James on Aug. 18.
PROGRAMS

Owl Prowl Thursday

Visit Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown on Aug. 18 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. to meet and learn about some of their resident owls. Embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight just in case. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $15 per person. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. Call 979-6344.

Dance Party

It’s time to dance! The Village of Port Jefferson concludes its Children Shows series at the Jill Nees Russell Performance Stage at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson with A Little Bit of Magic Dance Party on Aug. 18 at 6:30 p.m. Free. Bring seating. Visit www.portjeff.com.

Candy Twisted Balloons

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, King Park presents The Candy Twisted Balloon Show on Aug. 20 at 2 p.m. Part of Long Island State Parks Summer Entertainment, the show is a combination of comedy, crazy magic, and audience participation. You won’t want to miss the grand finale when Candy climbs inside the biggest balloon you have ever seen. $10 vehicle use fee. Call 269-4333 for more info.

Picture Book Making Workshop

The Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook presents a Children’s Picture Book Making Workshop with Bonnie Connelly for children ages 5 to 8 on Aug. 22 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. All needed materials will be provided. $20 per participant. To register, visit www.rebolicenter.org or call 751-7707.

Concert in the Park

Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket concludes its summer program series with a Kids for Kids interactive concert by the LIYD Music Club on Aug. 23 at 11 a.m. Meet at the Red Barn for a morning of fun in a beautiful place! Free. No registration necessary. Call 689-6146 for more information.

Build a Pirate Ship

Shiver me Tuesdays! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a  Pirate Ship Workshop every Tuesday in August from 2 to 4 p.m. Adults and kids can design and build a unique pirate ship model from a variety of wooden materials and more during this drop-in program. Complete your craft with a Jolly Roger! Bring your imagination. Kids, bring your adults for supervision. Admission + $10 participant. Questions? Call 367-3418.

FILM

‘Spider Man: No Way Home’

St. James Chamber of Commerce invites the community to Deepwells Farm County Park, 497 Route 25A, St. James for a screening of  Spider Man: No Way Home on Aug. 18 at 7:45 p.m. (rain date is Aug. 25). Free. Bring seating. No pets. Call 584-8510.

‘Encanto’

Northport-East Northport Community Drug and Alcohol Task Force will host a Family Movie Night at Northport Village Park on Aug. 18 at 8:30 p.m. with a free screening of Disney’s Encanto. Bring seating. First 50 attendees will receive a free lawn blanket. Call 516-361-6540 for more info.

‘Shark Tale’/’Finding Nemo’

The 5th annual Farmingville Flicks Movie Series continues with Finding Nemo on Aug. 18 and Moana on Aug. 25 at the Local Church, 1070 Portion Road, Farmingville at dusk. Presented by Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce and Sachem Public Library. Bring seating. Free but registration is required by visiting www.farmingvillechamber.com.

‘Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind’

The Cinema Arts Cenre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema For Kids series with a screening of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind on Aug. 21 at noon. The peaceful Valley of the Wind is nestled on the edge of the Toxic Forest and led by the courageous Princess Nausicaä, whose love of all living things leads her into terrible danger, as she fights to restore balance between humans and nature. Featuring the voices of Alison Lohman, Uma Thurman, Patrick Stewart, Edward James Olmos and Shia LaBeouf. Tickets are $12 adults, $5 children. Call 423-7610.

THEATER

‘Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical’

From Aug. 5 to Sept. 3, the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smihtown will present Mo Willems’ Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical from Aug. 5 to Sept. 3 with one special performance on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown on Aug. 3 at 2 p.m. Trixie, her father, and her favorite stuffed bunny set off on a trip to the laundromat. The trip brings wonder, excitement and joy to the lively toddler until she realizes that she has lost Knuffle Bunny. Filled with adventure, song and dancing laundry, it’s the perfect show for a family-friendly outing! Tickets are $18. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Junie B. Jones The Musical’

Children’s theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with Junie B. Jones The Musical from July 23 to Aug. 28. Sneak a peek into the “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal” of the outspoken and lovable Junie B. Jones! Based on the top selling children’s book series, this upbeat musical follows the spunky Junie as she navigates through the ups and downs of her first day of 1st grade. All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND John Denver tribute artist (and lookalike) Ted Vigil returns to Theatre Three on Aug. 19.
Thursday August 18

St. Joseph’s Family Festival

St. Joseph Parish, 59 Church St., Kings Park hosts a Family Festival tonight from 6 to 10 p.m., Aug. 19 and 20 from 6 to 11 p.m., and Aug. 21 from 6 to 10 p.m. Enjoy four days of fun with carnival rides, food, raffles, entertainment and more. Fireworks on Aug. 19. Purchase tickets in advance at www.stjoekp.com/festival or at the door.

Friday August 19

St. Joseph’s Family Festival

See Aug. 18 listing.

Third Friday at the Reboli Center

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook invites the community to its Third Friday event from 6 to 7 p.m. The staff from Sweetbriar Nature Center will give a demonstration and talk and guests of all ages will have the opportunity to see the animals up close and maybe even pet a select few! This event will take place in The Reboli Center backyard, weather permitting. Guests are encouraged to bring a blankets to sit on. In the event of rain the event will take place inside of the Reboli Center. Free. Call 751-7707.

Happenings on Main Street

The Northport Arts Coalition presents a free concert by Annie Mark/The Cool Hand at the Northport Village Park Gazebo at the harbor at 7 p.m. as part of its Happenings on Main Street Series. Bring seating. Call 827-6827 or visit www.northportarts.org.

Tribute to John Denver

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 2022 Summer Concert Series with John Denver tribute artist Ted Vigil at 8 p.m. Enjoy all of Denver’s most popular songs including “Rocky Mountain High,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” and more! Tickets are $59. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Saturday August 20

St. Joseph’s Family Festival

See Aug. 18 listing.

ELIQG Quilt Show

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead hosts the Eastern Long Island Quilters’ Guild annual show, “Hopes and Dreams,” today and Aug. 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with vendors, exhibits, yard sale raffles. Take a chance to win a beautiful queen-sized quilt, made by the members of the Guild, or one of the gift baskets loaded with goodies. Free admission. For more info, call 298-5292 or visit www.eliqg.com.

WMHO’s Pop Up Saturday

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization continues its Pop-Up Saturdays at the Stony Brook Village Center with adoptable dogs from Little Shelter from 2 to 4 p.m. and a free martial arts class by L.I. Traditional Tae Kwon Do from 2 to 3 p.m. Rain date is the following day. Free. Call 751-2244 or visit www.wmho.org.

Chicken Hill Barbecue

The Three Village Community Trust invites the community to its 7th annual Chicken Hill Country Picnic and Barbecue fundraiser on the lawn of the Bruce House, 148 Main St., Setauket on the grounds of the Setauket Rubber Factory Houses from 4 to 7 p.m. A fun, family event to celebrate the history of the Three Villages, participants will enjoy hamburgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, chicken dogs, drinks, art raffle, raffle baskets, mucis by Johnny Cuomo, house tours and more. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 kids 5 to 12, under age 5 free. Bring seating. Rain date is Aug. 21. Visit www.threevillagecommunitytrust.org or call 942-4558.

An evening of comedy

Governor’s Comedy Club heads to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown for an evening of laughs starting at 8 p.m. Featuring Joe DeVito, Olga Namer, Debbie D’Amore and Michele Fox. Tickets are $45/$40 members and includes open bar of beer and wine. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Comedy Festival

The Long Island Comedy Festival returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. Hosted by Paul Anthony, the evening will feature Ellen Karis, Stevie G.B., Tim Krompier and Steven Rocco Parrillo. Enjoy an evening of outrageous laughter and hilarious fun! Tickets are $49 per person. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Sunday August 21

St. Joseph’s Family Festival

See Aug. 18 listing.

ELIQG Quilt Show

See Aug. 20 listing.

Car Show and Swap Meet

Flowerfield Fairgrounds, Route 25A, St. James hosts a Car Show and Swap Meet by Long Island Cars from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Street rods, classics, muscle cars, antiques, exotics, imports and collectible cars on display. Vendors selling parts and accessories, plus a variety of cars for sale by owners. Admission is $10, under 12 years free. Rain date is Aug. 28. Call 567-5898 or visit www.longislandcars.com.

Lake Grove Summer Festival

The Village of Lake Grove will host its annual Summer Festival at the Gazebo and Memorial Park, 980 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Featuring arts and crafts vendors, magician, face painting, food trucks, live music, classic car show, gaming truck, carnival games, food and more. Call 873-0961.

Wind Down Sundays

The popular summer concert series continues at Hap’s historic Red Barn at Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket tonight with Quarter Horse (Rock, Folk, Country) at 5:30 p.m. Bring seating. Call 689-6146 or visit www.frankmelvillepark.org.

Summer Concerts on the Green

Summer concerts are back in front of the Stony Brook Post Office at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main Street, Stony Brook from 7 to 9 p.m. every Sunday through Aug. 28, courtesy of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization. Tonight’s performance will be by the Just Sixties Band. Bring seating. Call 751-2244 or visit wmho.org.

Monday August 22

Paint Night at the Reboli Center

Join the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook for an August Paint Party from 6 to 8:30 p.m. For a registration fee of only $45, each participant will be guided through recreating a Joseph Reboli original featuring day lilies. All needed materials will be included! Snacks and refreshments will be served for your enjoyment. Hosted by returning instructor Linda Davison Mathues. To register, call 751-7707 or visit www.rebolicenter.org.

CAC Sky Room Talk

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will host a Sky Room Talk titled The Rare Rod Serling at 7:30  p.m. Hosted by film historian Philip Harwood, the talk will feature a collection of rarely seen television broadcasts, all written by Serling, best known for his work on early television drama, The Twilight Zone, and screenplays such as Seven Days In May, and as co-writer on Planet of the Apes. Ticket are $17, $12 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Tuesday August 23

An evening of Goat Yoga

Join the Smithtown Historical Society, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown for a 45 minute session of yoga with friendly, interactive goats from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and again from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m courtesy of  by Steppin’ Out Ponies and Petting Zoo. Tickets are $28 per person and all levels of yoga are welcome. Please bring a mat & towel. The first session will be open to children aged 7 to 17, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Registration required via Eventbrite. For more information, call 265-6768.

Concerts at The Gazebo 

Enjoy Tuesday night concerts at The Gazebo, 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset through Aug. 30 at 7 p.m., courtesy of the Nesconset Chamber of Commerce. Tonight’s performance is by The Blast: Beatles Tribute. Rain dates are the next day. Bring seating. Questions? Call 672-5197 or visit www.nesconsetchamber.org.

Rocky Point Concert series

The North Shore Youth Council and Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker present a free concert featuring 45 RPM at St. Anthony of Padua Parish, 614 Route 25A, Rocky Point at 7 p.m. Bring seating. Questions? Call 403-4846.

Wednesday August 24

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

Cruise Nights are back at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River from 5 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday through Oct. 26. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic and coveted automobiles from car enthusiasts from across Long Island in The Shoppes parking lot. Questions? Call 929-3500 or visit www.eastwindlongisland.com

Summerfest Concerts

The Northport Chamber of Commerce closes its August Summerfest Concert series at the Northport Village Park Bandshell, Northport with a performance by Milagro (Sounds of Santana) from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Bring seating. For more info, call 754-3905.

Port Jefferson Sunset Concert

Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council presents Sunset Concerts at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. through Aug. 31. Tonight’s performance will be by Gene Casey & The Lone Sharks. Bring seating. Call 473-5220 or visit www.gpjac.org.

Thursday August 25

Summer Thursdays at the LIM

See off summer with the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook at its last Summer Thursday event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Bring a picnic basket, a blanket, and a friend and enjoy the grounds of the museum after hours with music by Pirates of the Snowy Terminal Moraine. Free. Visit www.longislandmuseum.org for more info.

Historic Walking Tour & Pub Crawl

The Huntington Historical Society hosts a Historic Walking Tour & Pub Crawl beginning at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, Main Street, Huntington at 6 p.m. Led by Town of Huntington Historian, Robert C. Hughes, this walking tour will guide you through the notable buildings and events in the history of Huntington Village. Along the way participants will stop at local establishments, (with a great history or in a historic building) to enjoy some refreshment before continuing the tour. $25 per person, $20 members (drinks not included). To register, call 427-7045 or visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Greek Festival

Opa! Greek Church of the Assumption, 430 Sheep Pasture Road, Port Jefferson presents its annual Greek Festival today from 5 to 10 p.m., Aug. 26 from 5 to 11 p.m., Aug. 27 from noon to 11 p.m. and Aug. 28 from noon to 10 p.m. with vendors, authentic Greek delights, dancing, music, carnival rides, church tour and giant raffle. Fireworks on Aug. 26 and 27 (weather permitting), raffle drawing on Aug. 28 at 8 p.m. $2 per person, free for children under 12. For more information, call 473-0894 or visit www.portjeffgreekfest.com.

Holbrook Carnival

Join the Holbrook Chamber of Commerce for its annual Carnival & Festival on the grounds of the Holbrook Country Club, 700 Patchogue-Holbrook Road, Holbrook tonight and Aug. 26 from 6 to 11 p.m., and Aug. 27 and 28 from 2 to 11 p.m. Games, food, rides, craft vendors, entertainment and fireworks (on Aug. 27). For more info, call 471-2725.

Harborside Concerts

The Village of Port Jefferson concludes its free Harborside Concert series with a special performance by The Hit Men (classic rock) at the Port Jefferson Ferry Dock, 102 West Broadway, at 7 p.m. For more information, call-473-4724 or visit www.portjeff.com. 

Film

‘Ice Cream in the Cupboard’

Cona Elder Law and the Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Center present a free screening of Ice Cream in the Cupboard: A True Story of Early Onset Alzheimer’s at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Pat Moffett and industry experts at 7:30 p.m. Preceded by pizza and light refreshments at 5:30 p.m. Preregistration is required (no walk-ins) by calling Shannon at 390-5000.

Theater

‘Every Brilliant Thing’

Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, in association with Response Crisis Center, presents the Long Island premiere of Every Brilliant Thing, a one-man show starring Jeffrey Sanzel, on the Second Stage Sundays at 3 p.m. from July 10 to Aug. 28. You’re seven years old. Your mother is in the hospital. Your father said she’s “done something stupid.” So, you begin a list of everything that is truly wonderful about the world — everything worth living for. With audience members recruited to take on supporting roles, Every Brilliant Thing is a heart-wrenching, hilarious story of depression and the lengths we will go for those we love. All seats are $20. Fifty percent of the gross proceeds of this production will benefit Response Crisis Center. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘On Your Feet!’

Extended! The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan from July 14 to Sept. 3. From their humble beginnings in Cuba, Emilio and Gloria Estefan came to America and broke through all barriers to become a crossover sensation at the very top of the pop music world. But just when they thought they had it all, they almost lost everything. On Your Feet! takes you behind the music and inside the real story of this record-making, and groundbreaking couple who, in the face of adversity, found a way to end up on their feet. Get ready to get on your feet, and dance to the smash hits “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “1-2-3,” “Live For Loving You,” “Conga,” and many more. Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘The Comedy of Errors’

The Carriage House Players continues its annual Shakespeare Festival at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport with The Comedy of Errors from July 29 to Aug. 24 on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 7 p.m. Performances take place outdoors on stage in the courtyard, where the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture adds a touch of timeless charm and magic. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy before the show and bring your own lawn chair. Inclement weather cancels. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children ages 12 and under. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Class Reunions

✴Port Jefferson (ELVHS) Class of 1972’s 50th reunion is planned for September 9 and 10, 2022. Please spread the word, and visit Facebook page “Port Jefferson(ELVHS) Class of 1972 50th Reunion” for details or e-mail [email protected].

✴Ward Melville High School Class of 1972’s  50th reunion is Oct 1. Please spread the word and visit Facebook page “Ward Melville High School Class 72 50th Reunion” for more information and purchasing tickets. For more information, email [email protected] or call 631-928-5684 and leave your name and contact information for any questions.

Vendors Wanted

◆ Nesconset Chamber of Commerce seeks vendors for its Nesconset Day street fair along Smithtown Blvd. in Nesconset on Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 631-672-5197 for more information.

◆ Davis Town Meeting House Society seeks vendors for its Yard Sale & Craft Fair on Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Davis House, 263 Middle Country Rd., Coram. Rain date is Sept. 11. $25 per table. For an application, call Maryanne at 631-804-2256 or email: [email protected].

◆ Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead seeks artisan craft & farmers market vendors for its 41st annual Country Fair on Sept. 17 and 18 from10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  For more details and an application, visit www.Hallockville.org/countryfair.

◆ Port Jefferson Lions Club seeks vendors for its 1st annual Car Show at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville on Sept. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Rain date is Sept. 25) Call Warren at 631-258-6165.

◆ Caroline Episcopal Church of Setauket is sponsoring a Fall Craft Fair & Barn Sale on the Setauket Village Green (Main St. and Caroline Ave.) on Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain date is Sept. 25 from noon to 5 p.m. Limited spaces still available on the Village Green (10’x10’) and covered Carriage Shed (9’x18’). Reserve your spot at depasmarket.com. Questions? Call 631-806-4845. 

◆ Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook is seeking vendors for its Apple Festival on Oct.1 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date Oct. 2). Spots (10’ x 10’) are $40 each; vendors can call or text 631-252-0777 for an application.

◆ St. Thomas of Canterbury, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown seeks craft or new merchandise vendors for its Craft Fair and Car Show on Oct. 8 (rain date is Oct. 15 for craft fair only) $50/space. Visit www.stthomasofcanterbury.net or call 631-265-4520 to obtain an application..

◆ Northport Arts Coalition seeks artists and musicians for its annual ArtWalk on Oct. 9 from 1 to 5 p.m. ArtWalk turns the entire Village of Northport into an immersive art experience. Artists in this juried event exhibit and sell their work in shops and offices while musicians serenade visitors on the streets. Artists will need to submit samples of their work to be considered for entry, and musicians will need to submit videos or recordings of live performances. The deadline to submit is Aug.21 and you’ll be notified by Sept. 1 if you’ve been accepted. Visit www.NorthportArts.org/ArtWalk.

◆ Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 716 Route 25a, Rocky Point seeks vendors to be a part of their annual October Festival on Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The fee for vendor participation of new items, no raffles is $35 per  10’ x 10’ space. Must supply own table and chairs. Visit www.thefishchurch.com Festivals and Events page.

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Blaze. Photo from Smithtown Animal Shelter

Shelter Pet of the Week

This week’s shelter pet is Blaze, a long time resident at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.  A 9-year-old pit mix, he is a very protective dog and will need a home that can manage this. His trust can be easily bought with treats and a person he trusts doing the introductions.  Once Blaze loves you, it is forever. He likes to play ball, carry toys around, go for walks, splash in the pool and, above all, eat! He is a regular tough guy until it’s cold and rainy, then he becomes a little baby. Blaze would be best suited to an adult only home with no other pets.

If you would like to meet Blaze, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting.

The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are currently 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.

 

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Daniel Gale Sotheby's International Realty at ribbon cutting on Aug. 4.

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty (DGSIR), serving Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens, officially opened its new Huntington office in downtown Huntington Village with a ribbon cutting on Aug. 4. The new office replaces its longtime Huntington office located about a mile outside of the village.

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty Chief Executive Officer Deirdre O’Connell cut the ribbon with help from President and Chairman of the Board Patricia J. Petersen and Huntington Sales Manager Melissa Stark.  The trio was joined by local government officials, representatives of the Huntington Chamber of Commerce, and many members of the Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty family. 

The new state-of-the-art office, ideally situated on the corner of Main Street and New York Avenue in the heart of downtown, will reap the benefits of high visibility and heavy foot traffic in this destination village known for its popular restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues.

“The opening of our new Huntington office is exciting on so many levels, not the least of which is its outstanding location,” said O’Connell. “It’s the first of its kind, designed  to be truly new in every way, from its technology to its layout and overall feel.  It is welcoming, comfortable and flexible to meet the needs of all who visit or work here.  It’s a place to gather, collaborate, and build relationships.”   

Stark echoed O’Connell’s thoughts and added, “An essential part of our culture is our commitment to the local community and that includes partnerships with village and other businesses.  And that relationship starts with the cutting of the ribbon.”

For the opening celebration, local restaurants and retail businesses including Prime, The Ivy, Crabtrees, Madison’s Niche, Endo Ethos, and the newest iteration of the popular bookstore Book Revue, The Next Chapter, donated raffle prizes. The proceeds of the raffle will benefit the Daniel Gale Foundation, which in turn will make donations to Long Island not-for-profit organizations.  Additionally, The Next Chapter has set up a pop up bookstore within the Huntington office, and will be open for business there throughout the month of August. 

Every month the office will host a different business, event or not-for profit.  In September, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty will be accepting donations of food and funds for Island Harvest, and in October, supporting Pink Aid’s work to assist breast cancer patients.  The office will regularly host the Long Island Board of Realtors’ Daniel Gale Young Professionals Network meetings as well.

“It is very exciting to be play a role in the action on Main Street and be a part of something new and fresh, every day,” added Stark.  “We invite our neighbors, friends and passersby to stop in and say hello. We can’t wait to meet you.”   

About Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty

Consistently achieving among the highest average sales prices nationwide, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty is a $5.02 billion-dollar organization based on Long Island, N.Y. with close to 950 real estate advisors serving New York City’s metropolitan area with 29 sales offices in Brooklyn, Queens,  Nassau and Suffolk counties, the North Fork of Long Island, and Westhampton Beach.  Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty is committed to marketing and showing homes in a way that gives prospective buyers and sellers the flexibility and convenience of online 3-D and regular video tours of many listed properties, floor plans, and photography, as well as virtual smart phone tours by request.   Our other services include a full Relocation/Referrals Division, a Rental Division, DGNY Commercial, and Ambassador Abstract Title company. The Sotheby’s International Realty® affiliate for Long Island and Queens since 1976, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s has gained national and international recognition, including top honors for sales, marketing and technology worldwide. For more information, visit danielgale.com.

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Members of the Brookhaven Redistricting Committee hear comments from the public at Comsewogue Public Library on Tuesday, Aug. 16.

The Brookhaven Redistricting Committee held a public meeting at Comsewogue Public Library on Tuesday, Aug. 16, to hear comments from residents across the township.

For the third straight week, citizens of Port Jefferson Station/Terryville presented a united front, urging the committee to keep the hamlet intact on the Brookhaven Town Council.

Logan Mazer, a Coram resident whose “map of least change” has received generally favorable reception in recent weeks among the public, addressed why he believes the proposed maps on the redistricting committee’s website would harm communities of interest.

“The two proposed maps make a few edits to the current boundaries that are clearly not acceptable,” he said. “The first, of course, is splitting up Port Jeff Station from the rest of CD1 and including [part of] Mount Sinai. This cannot stand and any new map that this commission considers and any map that the Town Council considers must reunite Council District 1.” He added, “Our priorities need to be keeping communities together.”

Charlie McAteer, corresponding secretary of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association, informs the committee of the historic ties between Port Jeff Station and Terryville. Photo by Raymond Janis

‘We have worked hard over the past 15 years … and all of this has been brought forth to get us to this point where we’re redeveloping our area as one vision, one hamlet.’

—Charlie McAteer

Among those in attendance who advocated for preserving Port Jefferson Station/Terryville within CD1 was Charlie McAteer, the corresponding secretary of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association.

“We are one hamlet,” he told the committee. “We have worked hard over the past 15 years — 2008 was the hamlet study for the Comsewogue district — and all of this has been brought forth to get us to this point where we’re redeveloping our area as one vision, one hamlet.”

Joining this cause was John Broven, an East Setauket resident, who compared the current redistricting process to that of 10 years ago. After investigating the 2012 process, Broven found that the committee then had worked collectively as an apolitical, independent unit.

Unlike 2012, Broven suggested that this year’s hearings have been marked by controversy and that he is “genuinely worried at the prospect of gerrymandering … along with the illogical splits between Port Jeff Station/Terryville and also Mount Sinai.”

Nancy Marr, president of the League of Women Voters of Brookhaven, outlined her own displeasure with how the hearings have been advertised to the public.

“In this case, the publicity to inform and involve people has been inadequate,” she said. “I hope next time it’s better. Despite many hearings that were scheduled, most people in Brookhaven Town did not know about them in time to come and participate.”

Shoshana Hershkowitz, a South Setauket resident and a statewide organizer for Citizen Action of New York, discussed the findings of the 2020 U.S. Census, which indicate the changing demographics of Suffolk County residents.

“It is clear that the population of New York state and the population of Suffolk County shifted dramatically,” she said. “We were at 19% minority communities in 2010. We are now at 33% in 2020. That is a 76% increase.”

Despite these demographic changes, Hershkowitz said the two proposed maps on the committee’s website target the two most diverse council districts in Brookhaven: Districts 1 and 4.

“Neither of these districts requires much change,” Hershkowitz said. “They’re both within that 5% deviation,” mandated under town code. She advocated for the transfer of territory from District 6 into District 2: “The logical thing is to move from 6 into 2. Do not disrupt these diverse communities.”

Gordon Heights Civic Association president E. James Freeman spoke on behalf of the residents of Gordon Heights, who presently reside in Council District 4. He reiterated that Districts 2 and 6 are the only ones requiring change, and that any proposal to expand Council District 4 into other areas of the town would dilute the voting power and disenfranchise the people of his community.

“We are always coming in here to be able to fight, to be able to be heard, to be able to be seen, to be able to be represented,” he said. “The weight of the many is often carried by the few. You don’t have a lot of faces in here that look like me but, believe me, things will still get done as long as we have a collective voice across all people.”

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Stock photo

Community Blood Drive

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta is collaborating with St. Joseph’s Church in Kings Park, to host a blood drive on Thursday, August 25, from1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Travis Hall – Lower Level, behind St. Joseph’s at 59 Church Street. The drive is to benefit the blood banks maintained by Long Island Blood Services, which provides blood to hospitals throughout Long Island.

To be eligible to donate blood, a person must be between the ages of 16 (16 with parental consent) and 76, (if older than 76, you need permission from your doctor), weigh over 110 pounds and not have had a tattoo in the last three months. Please bring a valid photo ID with you. LI Blood Services recommends that you eat and drink plenty of fluids before donating. Previous donors should bring their blood donor card with them.

Leg. Rob Trotta at a blood drive in  June.

As a thank you for donating a pint of blood, each donor will receive a voucher for a free pint of beer, glass of cider, wine or soda at one of the participating breweries such as Destination Unknown Beer Co., Jamesport Farm Brewery, Riverhead Cider House, Long Island Beer Company, Tradewinds Brewing, Eastern Front Brewing Co., Ubergeek Brewing and others on Long Island and throughout the tristate area.

“Hospitals are always in need of blood supplies so it is important that if you can donate blood to do so because one pint of blood can help save three lives. We just did a blood drive in June and I thank those who attended and hope you will return as enough time has passed to donate again,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta. For more information, please call Legislator Trotta’s district office at 631-854-3900.

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Stock photo

The Biden Administration has declared a national public health emergency for the monkeypox outbreak across the country. “This public health emergency will allow us to explore additional strategies to get vaccines and treatments more quickly out to the impacted communities. And it will allow us to get more data from jurisdictions so we can effectively track and attack this outbreak,” the White House said in a statement.

Monkeypox vaccines are available for Suffolk County residents at Northwell Health and Stony Brook Medicine Clinics. For more information, including links to schedule appointments, click here or call 311.

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