Greg Fasolino with the exhibit. Photo from Huntington Public Library
Currently on view in the glass lobby cases at the Huntington Public Library’s main branch through Oct. 31 is an exhibit titled Paperbacks from Hell: Exploring the Wild, Weird World of the 70s and 80s Horror Pulp Fiction.
Greg Fasolino with the exhibit. Photo from Huntington Public Library
Inspired by Grady Hendrix’s 2017 bestseller Paperbacks from Hell: The Twisted History of ’70s and ’80s Horror Fiction, this spinetingling exhibit at Huntington Public Library highlights the wild and wacky retro cover artwork of that era’s beloved and highly collectible pulpy paperbacks. As Tor.com’s Theresa DeLucci said of Hendrix’s compendium, “It’s a gorgeous, lurid deep-dive into horror’s heyday and a must-read for any self-respecting horror fan.”
Sparked by the unexpected mania for William Peter Blatty’s iconic The Exorcist in 1971, followed in 1974 by the rise to fame of Stephen King with Carrie and the massive success of Peter Benchley’s Jaws, horror paperbacks in those two decades infested every mall bookstore as well as the spinner racks of candy stores, supermarkets and airports, touching on every and any possible nightmarish theme or creepy category. These “paperbacks from hell” sold in the millions, whether they were efforts by more mainstream authors like King, Peter Straub, Ramsey Campbell and Clive Barker, or works from more obscure cult-classic writers like James Herbert (The Rats), Graham Masterton (The Manitou), Guy N. Smith (Night of the Crabs), Gregory A. Douglas (The Nest), Ken Greenhall (Hell Hound), Shaun Hutson (Slugs), John Lutz (Bonegrinder), Nick Sharman (TheCats) and Eric C. Higgs (The Happy Man).
The display was curated by local horror lit fan Greg Fasolino, who has been a collector of these sinister softcovers for almost 50 years. All of the eerie items on display date from the 1970s through the end of the 1980s, and all but two are original copies purchased when they were new.
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for its 9th annual Volunteer Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Meet with representatives from various organizations including Atlantic Marine Conservation Society, Crime Victims Center, Guide Dog Foundation, Literacy Suffolk, Inc., Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference, Long Island Coalition for the Homeless, Long Island State Veterans Home, Mather Hospital’s Volunteer Department, New York Blood Center, Open Door Exchange, Parker Jewish Institute — Willing Hearts Helpful Hands, Response of Suffolk County, Inc., SAVE-A-PET, Sierra Club, Long Island Group, Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4927 to find out about local opportunities for a variety of ages.
These are a few of our favorite things about the fall — pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and the annual Women’s EXPO at the Middle Country Public Library in Centereach on Thursday, October 10 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.More than just a trade show, the EXPO showcases the talents, products, and businesses of Long Island women entrepreneurs.
An initiative of the Middle Country Library Foundation, this annual event supports the work the library’s Miller Business Center does all year to help local entrepreneurs.
“Advocating for women-owned businesses not only sets the stage for presenting to young women a path to entrepreneur possibilities,” says Carol Allen, CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union and the EXPO’s long-time Café Sponsor, “but has proven to be essential to overall grass-roots community and overall economic growth.”
From limited access to funding to balancing personal and professional responsibilities, women entrepreneurs navigate numerous obstacles on their path to success. EXPO Supporting Sponsor Stony Brook Small Business Development Center’s Director Martha Stansbury, “applauds today’s women entrepreneurs for their perseverance in commercializing their business ideas.”
The EXPO not only celebrates these entrepreneurs but also highlights how supporting women-owned businesses strengthens community and economic growth across Long Island. The event not only brings shoppers, it connects the women with each other. “The EXPO provides an invaluable opportunity for women to connect, learn from one another, and collaborate. By coming together, we create a powerful network of support and innovation that fosters both personal and professional growth,” said Sophia Serlis-McPhillips, Director of Middle Country Public Library.
Let’s shine a spotlight on some of the incredible local women entrepreneurs who will be this year’s Women’s EXPO:
Malissa and Francis Mangogna
Malissa and Francis Mangogna
Beam of Light Designs
Malissa and Frances Mangogna made a bold leap into entrepreneurship in the summer of 2023, launching Beam of Light Designs. Inspired by the creative potential of the Innovation Space at the Middle Country Public Library, they initially created laser-engraved items as gifts for friends and family. However, as interest in the designs grew, Malissa and Frances decided to turn their hobby into a business.
They started by selling through Instagram and Facebook, with last year’s EXPO being their first event. Meeting and speaking with people in-person allowed Malissa and Frances to learn more about what customers really want. Malissa loves designing new products, from custom ornaments to unique visor frames. She says that this year’s EXPO will feature even more personalized options and that they will be affordable. “I’ve been in a position where things were too expensive, and I don’t want anyone to feel that way about our products,” says Malissa.
When asked about their biggest business success, Malissa says, “Our repeat customers. People order a personalized item and often order another right away.”
Vanessa Rodriguez
Vanessa Rodriguez
Creations by Bazookilla
Returning for her second year, Vanessa Rodriguez of Creations by Bazookilla reflects on how far she’s come since last year, when she attended her first ever event – the Women’s EXPO.Vanessa taught herself to crochet, giving her blankets, hats, and more to friends and family. “People would always tell me I should sell my items, but it was just something I did for fun.” That changed when her friend and mentor gave her the push she needed. “I wasn’t sure I could do it,” Vanessa admitted. “But I’m so glad she pushed me into it.” Vanessa, a single mother, balances her budding business with her studies in payroll management. Despite the challenges, she continues, driven by the memory of her late father, whose work ethic continues to inspire her to move forward.
She met many fellow women entrepreneurs at the last EXPO, including Lisa Brunetti of Fashion Forward with Lisa. Since connecting at the EXPO, Lisa has encouraged Vanessa to sell her products at Retro Relics in Lake Grove and join a networking group. Vanessa joined TNT and through the meetings she has gained vital support, helping her business grow. She says, “The best thing about starting this business has been meeting new people—other entrepreneurs—and connecting with them.” From hobbyist to business owner, from uncertainty to confidence, Vanessa feels like this year is her “moment.” And she’s just getting started.
Sue Folan
Sue Folan
Sue’s Balsamic Glazes
Sue Folan, a registered dietitian, was looking to do something different. Having spent a lot of time helping people season food in healthy ways and knowing balsamic glazes are an easy, healthy way to add that flavor, Sue’s Balsamic Glazes was born.
Unsure where to start, Sue used some of the resources available to entrepreneurs in New York starting at the Stony Brook Small Business Development Center where a business counselor helped her get begin. Still Sue knew she needed to learn more about getting a food product to market safely, so she worked with the Cornell Center for Excellence for Food and Agriculture.This led to her being invited to be a part of the inaugural session of the Cornell Food Spark, a program designed and led by leading food science experts to help entrepreneurs bring new food products to market.
After all her hard work, Sue’s Balsamic Glazes were ready for market in June 2023. In her first year, Sue sold 3,700 bottles and is on track to sell more than 5,000 this year.She is looking forward to her first EXPO.Former EXPO vendors have recommended the event as “a great way to meet and talk with other women in business,” says Sue.
Even though being an entrepreneur means Sue works 7 days a week, she is excited about what’s to come.
Sena Kolayli
Sena Kolayli
The Cinnamon Candle
Sena Kolayli’s journey from chemist to candle maker is as unique as the hand-poured sculptural soy candles she creates. Originally from Turkey, Sena moved to the U.S. to work as a chemist at a pharmaceutical company, but her career path shifted when she became pregnant. Wanting to balance her desire to work with staying home to care for her son, Sena took an online candle-making course. With her background in chemistry, she saw an opportunity to create natural, safe candles and was determined to craft the best product possible.
Now in her third holiday season with The Cinnamon Candle, Sena has grown her business from a single color, scent, and mold to offering five scents and a variety of colors and designs. “I started small, but I’ve always wanted to keep growing and adding to my collection,” she said. She hopes to offer candle-making workshops in the future and possibly open a coffee/candle shop — an idea inspired by her sister’s love of coffee.
For Sena, the biggest success is the positive feedback from customers. “People tell me my candles make their homes beautiful, and that just makes me cry,” she said. “I put so much care and effort into every single candle.”
A neighbor mentioned how much she enjoyed the EXPO and encouraged Sena to apply. She is looking forward to being around other women entrepreneurs
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Whether it’s the corner deli, the local card shop or an entrepreneur at the Women’s EXPO, every local purchase is a vote of confidence in your community.
The 24th annual Women’s EXPO will take place on Thursday, October 10 at the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd, Centereach from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free and there is ample parking. For further information, call the library at 631-585-9393 x296 or visit www.womensEXPOli.org.
As part of The Great Give Back, a Suffolk Cooperative Library System initiative, Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will host a Pet Supplies Drive from Oct. 7 to Nov. 10. The library will be collecting new pet supplies (food, blankets, leashes, cleaning supplies, etc.) in the Library lobby to be donated to local organizations that help pets in need. All are welcome to donate (residents or non-residents) during Library hours. Questions? Email [email protected].
New York State Assemblyman Keith P. Brown (R-Northport) announced that five public libraries from the Suffolk Cooperative Library System in Assembly District 12 have been allocated approximately $226,385 in state aid for library construction funds. These libraries include the Commack Public Library, which was allocated $3,750; Deer Park Public Library, which was allocated $100,000; Harborfields Public Library, which was allocated $22,635; Northport Public Library, which was allocated $78,000; and the East Northport branch of the Northport Public Library, which was allocated $22,000.
New York State Assemblyman Keith P. Brown
The funds were obtained from $34 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the fiscal year 2023-2024 state budget. They will help with projects such as roof replacement, the purchase and installation of alternative energy resources, new HVAC systems, windows, doors, lighting systems, electrical upgrades, electric vehicle charging stations, standby generators, and the new construction or replacement of parking lots. Broadband infrastructure projects are also eligible for this funding.
“I am proud to see these five very deserving public libraries in our community receive funding from the state for renovation projects,” Brown said. “These funds will make a tremendous difference in transforming these libraries into more energy-efficient, accessible, and welcoming public spaces for reading and learning.”
A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $1.75 billion in New York state. More than half of the 1,000-plus public library buildings in communities across New York are more than 60 years old. Another third are more than three decades old. Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient, and cannot provide internet, computers, and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring. Many do not have sufficient space to house the library’s ever-expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting spaces, or provide public access computers.
“The allocation of these funds for library construction projects will help breathe life back into our public libraries statewide. I am very excited to see the planned renovation projects completed,” Brown concluded.
In the fiscal year 2024-2025 state budget, the Legislature provided $44 million for projects that will be announced in the summer of 2025. This increase of $10 million from the previous fiscal year recognizes the continued need for support for libraries statewide to provide vital services to New Yorkers.
Artwork by Robyn Bellospirito will be on view at the Huntington Public Library through Oct. 29.
Now through October 29, the Huntington Public Library, 338 Main St., Huntington will present Beyond Words: Healing With the Arts After Stroke, a unique gallery exhibition by artist Robyn Bellospirito.
For one year after the artist had a series of strokes in 2022, she only painted abstracted circles and many of these will be in the exhibition. The exhibition will also include more representational paintings that were done more recently, along with art works incorporating words and phrases provided by fellow stroke survivors.
‘Impact’ by Robyn Bellospirito will be on view at the Huntington Public Library through Oct. 29.
The range of artistic styles of Bellospirito’s art has changed with the artist’s healing process. “My strokes left me with mild aphasia, making art and music far easier than words. I have created many new paintings for this exhibition that are visual representations of non-verbal language, particularly as it is interpreted through themes of music and nature. My intention is to share how I have used art and music to express myself so that others might feel inspired to find their own voice through creative mediums,” she said.
Bellospirito has noticed by attending stroke support groups and through her own healing process that though there is a lot of assistance available to stroke survivors for physical recovery, finding help for the emotional trauma of brain injury is not so easy. Not many psychologists are familiar with strokes and the grief, frustration, and sense of loss of self that many stroke survivors experience.
Furthermore, if a stroke survivor has any level of aphasia which is a communication issue, not only does the person have difficulty expressing their thoughts and needs, but it can be incredibly isolating. Through this exhibition, the artist is hoping to raise awareness for this under-served community.
An artists reception will be held on Sunday, Oct. 6 from 1 to 4 p.m., with a presentation by Bellospirito from 2 to 3 p.m that includes interactive art and music experiences in which all will be invited to participate.
This program is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by The Huntington Arts Council, Inc.
Legislator Rob Trotta introduces Nicole Garguilo, Smithtown Public Information Officer,
to sing the National Anthem.
Known as the “Singing Attorney,” many people in the audience recognized John Zollo when he took to the stage.
The audience was very impressed by the singing of Giuliana Gallone, who is starting her
freshman year at the Berklee College of Music in Boston.
Cherie Stawecki, a music teacher, opened the concert series with a beautiful rendition of
the National Anthem. Pictured right is Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
This year, the “Summer Concert Series at the Smithtown Library” celebrated its 20th year of bringing entertainment to the residents and neighbors of Smithtown. In 2021, the name of Dennis Cannataro, former Legislator Lynne Nowick’s late brother, was added to the title, as it was his idea for her to do such an event while she was a Legislator.
When Legislator Rob Trotta succeeded Nowick in office, he continued the concerts and invited residents from his legislative district to sing the National Anthem before each show. This year they were Cherie Stawecki of Kings Park, Nicole Garguilo of St. James, John Zollo of Smithtown and Giuliana Gallone, who attended the School of Rock.
A relatively new addition to the series is having students who attend the School of Rock and Musicology perform before the scheduled tribute bands
Trotta receives funding from the Suffolk County Office of Economic Development for the concerts. He is pleased that so many people attend the shows and support the downtown business community. “Julie Delaney, the Smithtown Library’s Director of Community Relations, did an excellent job of coordinating and organizing the concerts, as well as selecting the bands,” said Legislator Trotta.
Captions:
Cherie Stawecki, a music teacher, opened the concert series with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. Pictured right is Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
Legislator Rob Trotta introduces Nicole Garguilo, Smithtown Public Information Officer, to sing the National Anthem.
The audience was very impressed by the singing of Giuliana Gallone, who is starting her freshman year at the Berklee College of Music in Boston.
Known as the “Singing Attorney,” many people in the audience recognized John Zollo when he took to the stage.
Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will host a Community Volunteer Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Representatives from over a dozen organizations will be at the event including the American Red Cross, Avalon Nature Preserve, Bethel Hobbs Community Farm, Emma Clark Library’s Teen Department, Guide Dog Foundation, Last Chance Animal Rescue, Open Door Exchange, Parker Jewish Institute – Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands Program, Sisters of St. Joseph, Sweetbriar Nature Center, Theatre Three, Three Village Historical Society, Three Village Lending Aids Society and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization.
Furthermore, there will be a table with materials from organizations who were unable to attend the fair but are also looking for volunteers. There is no registration necessary and the event is open to all. For more information, call 631-941-4080.
Lauren Feldman, left, competes with mother Elyse, center, and aunt Marcia, right.
Scene during the puzzle competition. Photo by Lauren Feldman
Scene during the puzzle competition. Photo by Lauren Feldman
A group competes during the puzzle competition. Photo by Lauren Feldman
Scene during the puzzle competition. Photo by Lauren Feldman
Scene during the puzzle competition. Photo by Lauren Feldman
The Puzzled Parents take home first place, completing their puzzle in a half hour. Photo by Lauren Feldman
By Lauren Feldman
By popular demand, Huntington Public Library brought back its puzzle competition on Sunday, Sept. 15.
This was the second puzzle competition the library has hosted. The first competition, which took place in early June, was a hit with residents, who flocked in pairs, trios and quads to complete a 500-piece puzzle in under two hours. Both were held in the auditorium of the Main Branch at 338 Main St.
For this round, four teams faced off to complete a fall-themed puzzle. The puzzle is kept a mystery until the clock starts counting down, and all teams are given the same puzzle to keep things fair.
The first group, who called themselves the Puzzled Parents, completed the puzzle in just under half an hour.
Jacqueline Basso, resident programming librarian, said, “The first puzzle competition was very popular, it was a fully-booked program and everyone wanted more. All the comment cards were really favorable. So we scheduled this one in the fall.”
First and second place teams received a swag bag from the library, as well as a first and second place trophy.
Basso indicated the library plans to host another competition in the coming months, possibly closer to the fall holidays. “It seems like something our patrons are enjoying, and I hope to highlight it more in our newsletters going forward,” she said.
From left, Assistant Library Director Ryan Gessner, adult services librarian Jim Ward, Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa, Library Director Sophia Serlis-McPhillips, coordinator Elizabeth Malafi, adult services librarian Gilda Ramos, and coordinator Lori Abbatepaolo. Photo courtesy of MCPL
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From left, Assistant Library Director Ryan Gessner, adult services librarian Jim Ward, Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa, Library Director Sophia Serlis-McPhillips, coordinator Elizabeth Malafi, adult services librarian Gilda Ramos, and coordinator Lori Abbatepaolo. Photo courtesy of MCPL
The band Guilty Pleasures performed during Music Under the Stars concert series at MCPL-Centereach. Photo courtesy of MCPL
The MCPL Music Under the Stars summer concert series will take its final bow when The Men of Soul take the stage on Sept. 19, at 7:30 p.m., at Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd. in Centereach. A dynamic Soul and R&B cover band, this talented ensemble transports audiences back in time with their electrifying renditions of classic hits from iconic soul bands of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning provided an Omnibus grant to Middle Country Public Library to support the Music Under the Stars summer concert series. Sponsored by Legislator Nick Caracappa, this year’s event featured 1980s cover band Guilty Pleasures and Country and Bluegrass band The Longhorns.
This outdoor concert is free and open to all – just bring your lawn chairs and dress for the weather. Food trucks All American Wontons and Jeff’s Jolly Ice Cream will have snacks available for purchase.
For more information, please call Middle Country Public Library at 631-585-9393.
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