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Summer is the perfect time to read a book and who better to ask for suggestions than our local librarians? From love stories to thrillers and everything in between, these newly released books are the top picks to add to your list. A special thanks to all of the libraries that participated in our survey.

For Adults

Atmosphere: A Love Story 

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

“From the bestselling author of Daisy Jones & the Six and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, comes this engrossing tale to kick off the summer.  Following female astronauts in the 1980s, her characters wrestle with sexism, identity, and forbidden romance in the fast-paced world of the space program.  If you enjoy stories with both action and emotional depth you can’t go wrong adding this to your TBR list!”

— Christine Parker-Morales, Adult Services Librarian, Comsewogue Public Library

The Tenant 

by Freida McFadden

“McFadden’s books are perfect beach reads if you like a thriller with a twist. The Tenant is the best selling author’s latest book that is sure to have you on the edge of your seat.”

— Erin Schaarschmidt, Head of Adult Services at Port Jefferson Free Library

Not Quite Dead Yet 

by Holly Jackson 

“Holly Jackson’s adult debut is a twisty thriller where a woman has to solve her own murder.” 

— Elizabeth M., Librarian, Middle Country Public Library 

Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley

“[This book] is a whirlwind of fun. It’s entertaining, smart and funny. The perfect summer read.”

— Rallyn Tucker, Adult Reference Librarian, Emma Clark Library

One Italian Summer 

by Rebecca Serle

“This novel blends grief, self-discovery, and magical realism in the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Katy, devastated by the death of her mother and best friend, Carol, embarks alone on a trip they had planned to take together to Positano, Italy. It is there that Katy meets her mother — not as she knew her, but as a vibrant 30-year-old woman. This reunion forces Katy to see her mother in a new light and reevaluate the course of her own life.  It is a moving novel that lets you reflect on love, family, and finding oneself after loss.”

— Amanda Lentino, Adult Reference Coordinator, The Smithtown Library

For Teens/Tweens

Honeysuckle and Bone 

by Trisha Tobias 

“[This book] is a modern gothic thriller, reminiscent of the classic novella, “The Turn of the Screw,” crossed with modern YA mystery tropes. It’s set in a lushly detailed environment that screams for a film adaptation. This new YA book is not to miss!”

—  Emily Ostrander, Head Librarian of the Teen & Tween Services Department, Emma Clark Library

Sunrise on the Reaping 

by Suzanne Collins

Sunrise on the Reaping revisits the world of Panem twenty-four years before the events of The Hunger Games, starting on the morning of the reaping of the Fiftieth Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. 

—  Kristine T., Librarian, Middle Country Public Library

The Romantic Tragedies of a Drama King 

by Harry Trevaldwyn 

— Sal Filosa, Head of Teen and Technical Services at Port Jefferson Free Library

After Life 

by Gayle Forman 

[This book] is an emotional and thought-provoking story that explores grief, identity, and the importance of second chances. The characters feel relatable, making it easy to connect with their struggles and growth. The book’s heartfelt message and compelling storytelling make it hard to put down.  

— Colleen Navins, Teen Services Coordinator, The Smithtown Library

For Children

Cincinnati Lee, Curse Breaker

by Heidi Heilig

“Children will love reading this book for its fast-paced adventure, clever twists, and a hero they can root for. With a mysterious curse to unravel, magical secrets around every corner, and the excitement of travel and exploration without ever leaving home, it’s the perfect page-turner to spark imaginations. Young readers will be hooked from the first chapter!”

— Marcela Lenihan, Children’s Librarian, Emma Clark Library

Other recommendations include:

“Sylvia Doe and the 100-Year Flood” by Robert Beatty (8-12 Years) — Kimberly Manise, Head of Children’s Services, Port Jefferson Free Library

“Don’t Trust Fish” by Neil Sharpson (3-6 year-olds) — Cassidy O., Middle Country Public Library

“Will the Pigeon Graduate?” by Mo Willems — Maggie Moloney, Children’s Services Coordinator, The Smithtown Library

“Swimming into Trouble” by Angela Ahn (1st through 3rd grades) — By Tracy L., Librarian, Middle Country Public Library

“Will the Pigeon Graduate?” by Mo Willems — Maggie Moloney, Children’s Services Coordinator, The Smithtown Library

“Monster Locker” by Jorge Augusto Aguirre (4th through 6th grades) — Kristen T., Middle Country Public Library

“Nothing Bad Happens Here” by Rachel Ekstrom-Courage — Jenny Cammarano, Library, Comsewogue Public Library

This article originally appeared in TBR News Media’s Summer Times supplement on June 19.

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A scene from 'Elio.' Image courtesy of Disney/Pixar

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

In the cinematic landscape, Pixar Studios created many of the most memorable animated features. These include Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Cars, and Inside Out, along with their extensive line of sequels. Founded in 1979, Pixar became a cultural juggernaut of fiscal and critical success, in many ways redefining expectations in family entertainment.

In Elio, orphaned Elio Solis lives with his Aunt Olga, an Air Force major. Olga gave up her aspirations to be an astronaut to raise the lonely boy. One day, Elio sneaks into a closed exhibit of the Voyager 1 NASA space probe. The possibility of life on other planets fascinates the boy. Each night, he sprawls on the beach, staring up into the stars, hoping to be abducted by aliens.

A scene from ‘Elio.’ Image courtesy of Disney/Pixar

Meanwhile, conspiracy theorist Gunther Melmac claims there is evidence of extra-terrestrials responding to the Voyager 1, transmitting a message to Earth. Elio uses Melmac’s invention to send a message into space. Eventually, Elio is transported into a spaceship where aliens of the Communiverse mistake him for the Earth’s leader and ambassador. Elio becomes embroiled in their negotiations with a warlord, Lord Grigon, who threatens a takeover of the Communiverse. Through various machinations, including the introduction of cloning, among other science fiction devices, Elio befriends Grigon’s son, the gentle Glordon, who does not want to become part of his father’s violent coalition. 

The story follows a predictable path. The film introduces elements of bullying on Earth and in the far reaches of the galaxy. After an altercation, Elio receives an eye wound, forcing him to wear a patch. Elio has moments of introspection, questioning whether the difficulty is in the world or within himself. “I thought Earth was the problem, but what if it’s me?” 

The film swings at big concepts and grand scope: The statement “Are we alone?” plays on two levels. But, for all this reflection, the film feels shallow, never fully realizing its ambitions. Children’s films have effectively tackled challenging issues. Up, Coco, and both Inside Out films, not to mention the majority of the Toy Story universe, manage to address large topics with integrity and resonance. It’s not that Elio doesn’t try. It’s just that it never quite reaches the targeted feelings.

Like many animated features, this might be a case of too many cooks. Three directors (Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, and Adrian Molina) worked from a script by three screenwriters (Julia Cho, Mark Hammer, and Mike Jones). Elio possesses an excess of ideas, but nothing is quite finished. Too many on-the-nose statements—“A father always knows” and “I may not always understand you, but I love you”—are presented but not necessarily earned. 

The voice talent does fine with the material. Yonas Kibreab and Zoe Saldaña, as Elio and Olga, respectively, are real and nuanced. Remy Edgerly is sweet as Glordon, with Brad Garrett’s gravelly intonations suitable for the villainous Grigon. Jameela Jamil, Shirley Henderson, Matthias Schweighöfer, Brandon Moon, and Naomi Watanabe bring warmth and humor to the assortment of alien ambassadors. Brendan Hunt captures Melmac’s manic energy.

Elio is populated with a range of creatures that seem Happy-Meal-precious, but they are truly fun and wholly benign. The film’s strength lies in the extraordinary production design (Harley Jessup) in tandem with the visual effects (supervised by Claudia Chung-Sani), which have created the joyous Communiverse, a striking and vibrant rainbow pulsing with life. Sadly, these surrounding elements contain more drive than the story itself, resulting in a case of style over substance. 

The film’s climax shamelessly borrows shades of E.T. Needless to say, everything works out for everyone. Elio probably seemed good, if not great, on paper. And, in truth, the outlines, structure, and themes of a more satisfying film are there. But, in the end, Elio is an interstellar movie that remains earthbound.

Rated PG, the film is now playing in local theaters.

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Catch a screening of 'Moana 2' at Heritage Park in Mt. Sinai on June 27 at dusk.

PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature for children ages 2 to 4 on June 27 at 9:30 a.m. Little ones will learn about nature through hands on interaction, music, crafts, stories, play and more. $20 per child per class. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Aquarium Celebration

In honor of National Zoo and Aquarium Month, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will hold an Aquarium Celebration on June 28 with Animal Encounters at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; a Hatchery Tour at 11 a.m.; Turtle Feed & Talk at noon, Longnose Gar Feeding Demo at 2 p.m. and crafts all day. Included with admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Growing Up Wild

Town of Brookhaven offers a nature program at Cedar Beach Nature Center, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mt. Sinai on June 28 at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m.  Children ages 3 to 6 with a parent/caregiver are invited to explore nature with story time, live animals and an activity. Free but registration required by emailing [email protected].

Mommy, Me & Monet

Celebrate St. James hosts a Mommy, Me & Monet: Garden Tees and Tiny Masterpieces  art class at the St. James Cultural Center, 176 2nd St., St. James on June 28 from 10 a.m. to noon. Led by artist Rhoda Angelier, children ages 4 to 6 will paint side by side with a parent/caregiver to make a garden designed one of a kind t-shirt masterpiece. $40 per child. To register, visit celebratestjames.org. 

BNL Family Fun

Explore Brookhaven National Lab, Upton at a Family Fun Open House Summer Sunday on June 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy interactive exhibits, STEM Live! shows, demonstrations, lectures, tours and meet Spot, the robot dog. Free. Guests 18 and older must bring REAL ID-compliant identification. bnl.gov/sundays/2025/

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

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

FILM

‘Happy Feet’

As part of its Cinema for Kids series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen Happy Feet on June 29 at noon. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org. 

‘Moana 2’

Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mount Sinai kicks off its Movies in the Moonlight series with a screening of Moana 2 on June 27 at dusk. Free. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Presented by the North Shore Youth Council and Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon. 631-403-4846

THEATER

‘The Fantasmix’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its children’s theater with The Fantasmix: A Superhero Journey Begins! from July 11 to July 26 with a sensory friendly performance on July 13 at 11 a.m. Come help the world’s newest superheroes Lightning and Bolt as they embark on an epic journey to save our planet — and all its water! The electrifying brother-and-sister duo discovers that together, they have what it takes to save the world. Tickets are $15. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘The Little Mermaid Jr’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. from July 12 to Aug. 17. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home behind and live in the world above. But first, she’ll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking. Tickets are $26.50. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Madagascar: A Musical Adventure’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Madagascar: A Musical Adventure from July 19 to Aug. 24. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime.  Follow all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

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Wave Twister is a new ride set to open in Adventureland of Farmingdale as the amusement park prepares to open for the summer 2025 season.Photo courtesy of Adventureland

Adventureland, 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale is set for a fun 2025 summer season, starting on Wednesday, June 25. The park will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day (Barring a few delayed openings in July. Check website/social media for up-to-date operating information.)

“Adventureland is looking forward to hosting another thrilling year of family fun!” said Caitlin DiSclafani, Park Manager of Adventureland. “We are excited to launch our Sunset Savings Program this summer as well as our new Not Ms. Rachel Show that will take place on the Adventureland Stage. Team Fun, Royal Event’s Princess Parties, and Amazing Louie’s Magic Show are joining us again this summer to add smiles, laughter, and fun for kids of all ages with their entertaining shows and skills. Our partnerships with Nassau and Suffolk Libraries continue this summer, highlighting our commitment to the communities we serve, and the critical role local libraries play in our Long Island neighborhoods.”

New Ride: Wave Twister

The new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ will open this season. This first-of-its-kind ride in the United States was custom built for Adventureland. This new ride is part of ‘phase 2’ of the amusement park’s multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment plan announced last year.

The track, which is shaped like a boomerang, fits into the ‘Legacy Corner,’ and will maximize the available space in that section. The ‘Wave Twister’ is a family ride. It was made in Switzerland by RES Rides—the same company that built the ‘FireBall’ ride. The boomerang-shaped track will simulate the motion and feel of riding on ocean waves. It will spin and travel over a track and reach heights of up to 60 feet at its peak. Although a ‘dry ride,’ it will have water elements consisting of fountains and mists. Two gondolas in a figure-eight shape complement this ride, which fits 20 riders per cycle. Riders must be 36″ tall (height of the average 4-year-old) to ride with adults, and 48″ tall (height of the average 8-year-old) to ride alone.

Entertainment Shows Returning by Popular Demand

There are plenty of entertaining shows lined up. New for this season is the Not Ms. Rachel Show (show dates will vary). Three shows returning this season by popular demand include the Royal Event’s Princess Parties on Thursdays to feature sing-a-longs on the Adventureland Stage and photo ops throughout the park. In addition, there will be engaging performances by Team Fun featuring jugglers and walking entertainers and Amazing Louie’s Magic Show.

Entertainment Show Schedule:

  • Not Ms. Rachel Show – June 28, July 12, and 26: 1 p.m., 2.p.m., and 3 p.m.
  • Royal Event’s Princess Parties – every Thursday starting June 26: 12:30-5:30
  • Team Fun – Fridays: 12 p.m.-3 p.m., and Saturdays: 5 p.m. -8 p.m.
  • Amazing Louie’s Magic Show – every Sunday: 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.

Ticket Discount Deals:

There are more ways than ever to get discount offers on tickets this season via Sunset Savings, Alfie’s Last Call, Military Discounts, as well as through the Nassau/Suffolk Library partner programs.

  • Sunset Savings: Admissions purchased at the park after 5pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7/1 – 8/21 will be $27 per person plus tax. This reflects up to a 45% discount off regular admission. The $27 per person plus tax offer applies to all ages.
  • Nassau and Suffolk Libraries: $31.50 per person with vouchers available at Nassau/Suffolk libraries.
  • Military Discounts: Available online daily for active military and veterans.
  • Alfie’s Last Call: Available 2 hours before closing every day: $27 per person plus tax applies to all ages.
  • Catholic Health Employee discount: Available online. Additional discount on birthday party packages.

For more details, visit https://adventureland.us/.

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The Centereach High School robotics team at the convention. Photo courtesy the Middle Country Central School District
A scene from the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship. Photo courtesy of Middle Country Central School District
The Centereach High School robotics team at the convention. Photo courtesy the Middle Country Central School District
A scene from the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship. Photo courtesy of Middle Country Central School District
The Centereach High School robotics team at the convention. Photo courtesy the Middle Country Central School District
A scene from the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship. Photo courtesy of Middle Country Central School District

The Centereach High School robotics team showcased their engineering prowess and technology skills at the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship, held May 9–11 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.

The prestigious international event welcomed over 840 teams from more than 45 countries, uniting the world’s top young engineering minds in a celebration of creativity, collaboration and innovation.  

Centereach’s team, named the CouGears, a play on their district mascot the Cougar, participated in the highly competitive Engineering Division where they stood out for their technical acumen and collaborative spirit. Their outstanding sportsmanship and commitment to excellence earned them the coveted Worlds Sportsmanship Award, a distinction given to teams that exemplify kindness, respect and teamwork both on and off the competition field.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and character of our students,” said Centereach High School Principal Tom Bell. “Their passion for STEM and ability to work together under pressure was on full display. We couldn’t be prouder.”

The CouGears’ success at the world championship is the culmination of months of preparation and problem-solving, reinforcing Centereach High School’s commitment to STEM education and hands-on learning opportunities.

For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

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Photo from Town of Smithtown

With the National Weather Service issuing a Heat Advisory through Tuesday, June 25 at 8 p.m., Town of Smithtown officials are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and comfort of residents during the extreme weather.

On Monday, June 23, the Smithtown Senior Center will operate as a designated Cooling Center. Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, in coordination with the Department of Public Safety and key support staff, have made special arrangements to open the facility to residents in need of relief from the heat. Residents who would like to utilize the cooling center are encouraged to call (631) 360-7553 to make arrangements.

In addition, all Town beaches and water parks will remain open until 8 p.md. Although the Landing Country Club pool was originally scheduled to open to the public this weekend, Supervisor Wehrheim—with the full support of the Town Council—has made an executive decision to open the pool early and extend its hours until 8 p.m. on June 23.

“It’s going to be a hot and humid few days. We want to ensure the health and quality of life for everyone, especially our most vulnerable residents. It is with this in mind, that our Public Safety Department has made special arrangements to make sure our seniors have a cool place to come to. Additionally, families can take advantage of extra hours at the beach, pool and in our splash parks located all around town. A special thanks to our Public Safety Chief, Thomas J. Lohmann, our Senior Center Director, Doreen Perrino, Our Parks Director Joe Arico, Recreation Director Brandon Brandon Modrov and the support staff from these departments for dropping everything to ensure this dog day of Summer is cool and comfortable for all of our residents,” said Smihtown Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

Seniors can make arrangements ahead of time by contacting the Smithtown Department of Public Safety today at 631-360-7553. Residents are asked to check on elderly neighbors and pass along this information.

 

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Sisters Nora, left, and Caroline, right, recently visited Legislator Steven Englebright to share some bicycle safety tips. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office
The warmer weather means more children will be outside riding their bikes. Port Jefferson residents Nora and Caroline Boecherer, 8 and 5, respectively, have proven they are well-versed in bicycle safety.
Photo: Sisters Nora, left, and Caroline, right, recently visited Legislator Steven Englebright to share some bicycle safety tips. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office

The sisters tied for first place as Legislative District 5’s Bicycle Safety Poster winners and recently stopped by Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright’s (D-Setauket) office. This is the second year in a row that Nora won in the district. In 2024, she was named Suffolk County Legislature’s overall winner.

Earlier this year, all 18 legislators invited students from local schools to participate in the annual Bicycle Safety contest. Elementary students are asked to send in a poster, while intermediate and high school students are eligible for a video contest. Each legislator picks one poster and one video from entries submitted to their districts to be considered as the overall Legislature winners.
During their recent visit to Englebright’s office, Nora and Caroline, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School students, rode their bicycles in the office building’s parking lot. They also discussed their posters and bicycle safety with Legislator Englebright, who presented the sisters with certificates to acknowledge placing first in the district.
“Nora and Caroline Boecherer are two bright young constituents who are doing their part to help educate others about safe cycling habits, so everyone of all ages can enjoy the roads together,” Englebright said. “It was a pleasure to name them both as District 5’s winners for the Suffolk County Legislature’s annual Bicycle Safety Contest.”

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A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin
A scene from the 2025 Sts. Philip and James Festival. Photo by Michael Scro/Media Origin

Saints Philip & James Roman Catholic Church hosted their 2025 annual Family Festival from Thursday, June 12th through Sunday, June 15th at church grounds on Carow Place in St. James.

The festival featured exciting carnival rides for all ages, games, delicious festival food and treats, carnival games and prizes and fun for the entire family. Toddlers, kids and teens alike frolicked across the grounds despite inclement weather. Some favorite rides and activities included the Tokyo Drift spinning cars and the Toboggan Racer-style slide.

Parents were happy to enjoy their days off discovering new favorites with their children or simply to enjoy the cheerful, laid-back environment. 

— Photos by Michael Scro, Media Origin 

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Kindergartner Athena Corso. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
First grader John Jantzen. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
Second grader Christopher Calvanese. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
Third grader Erios Pikramenos. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
Fourth grader Lyla Drucker. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
Fifth grader Taran Sathish Kumar
Sixth grader Luke Dinsman. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL

The annual Elementary Science Fair Competition hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory on June 7 showcased a range of hypotheses students set out to test by following the scientific method.

Students presented questions inspired by their everyday lives, their interests, and timely topics in science. This year’s project titles included, “Alexa, Do my Homework!” “Does Taylor Swift Help Make my Dog Less Anxious?” “How Does the Air Pressure of a Soccer Ball Affect how far it Travels When Kicked?” and “Words Matter: How Encouragement Affects Performance.”

Brookhaven Lab scientists and local teachers volunteered to judge 258 projects and award the top spots and honorable mentions for each grade level, from kindergarten to sixth grade. The competition also included a Judges’ Choice award for creative questions.

“Our Elementary Science Fair is all about celebrating students’ first steps in STEM and providing positive memories that will inspire them as they consider future career paths,” said Daniel Trieu, competition co-coordinator and educational programs representative with Brookhaven Lab’s Office of Workforce Development and Science Education (WDSE). WDSE provides educational opportunities that highlight the Lab’s research initiatives, preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers.

A number of projects pulled in family and friends, including four-legged ones. Kindergarten student Savanna Stidd of Riley Avenue Elementary School wondered, “Am I really my dog’s best friend?” and found that her pup named Penny ran to her the fastest when called over. Her favorite part of the process? “I got to play with my dog,” she said.

Some students combined science and art, exploring how different types of music play into plant growth, whether music affects the way we draw, and which conditions contribute to the perfect place to hang their paintings. Others asked questions about food, including a project that tested which substance best mummified apples — complete with a life-size display prop mummy — and another that investigated why a student’s favorite ice cream flavor, chocolate, melts quickly in the summer.

Overall, the Science Fair is a chance to highlight students’ curiosity about the scientific process.

“My favorite part about being at the Science Fair is looking at my Science Fair project and seeing how hard I worked for it,” said Elijah David, a third grader from Coram Elementary School who conducted an experiment to see which liquids dissolved different types of candy the fastest. 

Students who earned first place in their grade level received medals and ribbons, along with banners to hang at their school to recognize the achievement. All participants received a ribbon in recognition of having won their grade-level competition at their school. Brookhaven Lab and Teachers Federal Credit Union sponsored the competition.

Science Fair awards

The following students earned first place in their grade level: 

◆ Kindergartner Athena Corso, Lincoln  Avenue Elementary School in Sayville for  “Don’t Wake a Sleeping Baby.”

◆ First grader John Jantzen, Sunrise Drive Elementary School in Sayville for “Electromagnet Avenue.”

◆ Second grader Christopher Calvanese, Pines Elementary School in Smithtown for “Monkey Bars or Ouchy Scars: Which playground surface absorbs the most impact?” 

◆ Third grader Erios Pikramenos, Joseph A. Edgar Intermediate School in Rocky Point for “Lami vs. Eddy.”

◆ Fourth grader Lyla Drucker, Tamarac Elementary in Holtsville for “Upcycled Seed Paper.” 

◆ Fifth grader Taran Sathish Kumar, Pines Elementary School in Smithtown for “Waste to Blaze: Which Eco-Briquette Burns the Best.” 

◆ Sixth grader Luke Dinsman, Northport Middle School in Northport for “Defeating Drought: Can Hydrogels Help?” 

Judges’ choice

Kindergarten: Nate Doherty, Miller Avenue School in Shoreham

First Grade: Jack Gottesman, Tamarac Elementary School in Holtsville

Second Grade: Indie Crooke, Hampton Bays Elementary School in Hampton Bays

Third Grade: Colton Christian, Dayton Avenue School in Manorville

Fourth Grade: Mabel Gross, Dayton Avenue School in Manorville

Fifth Grade: Morgan Proscia, Sunrise Drive Elementary School in Sayville

Honorable mentions

Kindergarten: Arjun Yelika, Laurel Hill School in East Setauket; Savanna Stidd, Riley Avenue Elementary School in Calverton; and Peyton Lauten, Frank J. Carasiti Elementary in Rocky Point

First Grade: Grady McHugh, Pines Elementary School in Smithtown; and Cecilia Singh, Edna Louise Spear Elementary in Port Jefferson

Second Grade: Maggie Ruddick, Ridge Elementary School in Ridge; Rudhvin Maheshkumar, Bretton Woods Elementary School in Hauppauge; and Nathan Kenny, Hiawatha Elementary in Lake Ronkonkoma

Third Grade: Emilia Rutigliano, Tamarac Elementary in Holtsville; Adalynn Bishop, Raynor Country Day School in Speonk; George Miyagishi, Park View Elementary School in Kings Park; Christopher Powell, Fifth Avenue School in East Northport; and Siena Roseto, Cutchogue East Elementary School in Cutchogue.

Fourth Grade: Kate Unterstein, Cutchogue East Elementary School in Cutchogue; Myles Savage, RCK Elementary School in Islip Terrace; Lily Argyros, Bretton Woods Elementary School in Hauppauge; Vincent Calvanese, Pines Elementary School in Smithtown; and Ruby Tafflock, Ocean Avenue School in Northport. 

Fifth Grade: Sofia Balcells, Raynor Country Day School in Speonk; and Ashleigh Bruno, Northport Middle School in Northport.

Sixth Grade: William Zeiger, Peconic Community School in Cutchogue; and Colette Breig, William T. Rogers Middle School in Kings Park.

Science Fair Expo

While the project showcase was underway, science fair participants and their families also visited the Science Fair Expo, which featured information about Brookhaven Lab, science demonstrations, and hands-on activities related to physics, nanoscale science, and more.

Brookhaven National Laboratory is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy, the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States. For more info, visit science.energy.gov.

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Pexels photo

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will host a Sand Castle Contest at Sunken Meadow State Park, Field #1, 1 Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park on Tuesdays, June 24,  July 15, and August 19. 

Each week, prizes will be awarded for the best sculptors and castles in several categories. T-shirts will be provided by the Natural Heritage Trust. 

Sand sculptors may use sand, water, and any other natural materials native to the beach. Registration is held at 9:30 a.m. at the Main Beach Boardwalk, build time is from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., judging is at 10:30 a.m. and an awards ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. A $10 vehicle use fee will be in effect. For further information, call 631-269-4333, ext. 0.

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