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A scene from the Enchanted Garden Prom at The People's Arc on June 6. Photo courtesy People's Arc

People’s Arc of Suffolk hosted a joyful and heartwarming prom on June 6, marking the end of the school year for more than 30 students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at People’s Arc of Suffolk’s Educare Center in Bohemia.

Students in the 10th, 11th, and 12th grades dressed up in formal and semi-formal attire for the “Enchanted Garden” themed event here today to sing and dance, both on foot and in their decorated wheelchairs, and posed for pictures with their families and teachers. A local DJ donated his time to provide the music and the room was decorated by teachers and volunteers.

“Our children deserve to have every experience that their counterparts in district have. A prom is a part of that. It’s a special social event, a time to get out and play and have fun with their peers,” said Andrea Nickdow, VP, Children’s Services, People’s Arc of Suffolk. “They’ve been talking about who’s going to wear what and making sure they are matching with their friends. They might not even use words to communicate it, but you can tell they’re excited.”

The People’s Arc of Suffolk Educare Center offers education and therapeutic services to students aged 5-21 with developmental disabilities. Through an innovative blend of academics, therapies, and community integration, the school empowers students to reach their highest potential in a supportive and nurturing environment.

“This event is a shining example of how The People’s Arc of Suffolk creates inclusive, empowering experiences for those they support every day,” said Dana Schillinger, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at the People’s Arc of Suffolk Educare Center.

About People’s Arc of Suffolk

People’s Arc of Suffolk is dedicated to creating communities where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy life to its fullest. The organization provides a wide array of services, including employment opportunities, education programs, and community engagement, all aimed at fostering an equitable and integrated community for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Follow People’s Arc of Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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Guides Kitty Lebens and Jill Gersbeck welcome visitors at the front door of the Sherwood-Jayne farmhouse.
The first-floor east room includes the rare hand-painted wall decorations.
The first-floor west room includes the pine corner cupboard.
The first page of Howard Sherwood’s “Sheep Register.”
Sherwood-Jayne House. Photo courtesy of Preservation Long Island

By Beverly C. Tyler

Along Old Post Road in East Setauket are a number of old farmhouses. One of the most interesting and best preserved is the circa 1730 Sherwood-Jayne House which is owned by Preservation Long Island. The home, first built by Matthias Jayne, and owned by a succession of his descendants, was enlarged over the years, but it retains much of its original appearance both inside and out. The house sits on a large area that retains a farm-like atmosphere with a colonial barn, ice house and a number of other structures. A carefully pruned apple orchard stands just to the west of the house along Old Post Road. To the left of the barn and behind the orchard is the entrance to the walking trail. The three-mile circular trail meanders through the wooded area where red-tailed hawks are known to nest. However, the trail is a bit difficult to follow as trail markers were not evident to me on opening day. 

A guided tour of the historic house is not to be missed. On May 31st, I was met at the front door by guides Kitty and Jill who described the house and grounds as a “central Long Island farmscape.” Matthias’ son William doubled the size of the house following the end of the Revolutionary War. Known locally as “Big Bill the Tory,” William, who lost his wife Tabitha in 1785, was responsible for the architectural details which provide a unifying appearance to the colonial structure. 

The Sherwood-Jayne farm is a part of the Town of Brookhaven’s East Setauket Historic District, one of five historic districts in the Three Village area. The farm represents the  character of the historic district with its many private historic farmhouses, dating from the end of the 17th century through the early years of the 20th century. 

The interior of the house features both original wall paintings and spectacular paneling. The paneling is believed to be from a nearby colonial house that was the birthplace of Benjamin Tallmadge, leader of the Culper spy ring. Howard Sherwood,  who purchased the house in 1908 from the third great-granddaughter of Matthias Jayne, collected the paneling and the interior furnishings.

As detailed by Preservation Long Island, “Howard Sherwood, an American decorative arts collector and Preservation Long Island founder…is responsible for the building’s current appearance as a restored colonial-era farmhouse with early twentieth-century Colonial Revival alterations…” One of the interesting records kept by Sherwood is a “Sheep Register” which details his project to use sheep on the farm. He wrote, “Along in the summer of 1932, Charlie and I bethought ourselves of sheep as a means of keeping the East field down and in shape. Accordingly, the following fall and winter, Charlie cut and set the posts to fence it and in April ‘33 I secured the necessary wire fencing, together with a stretcher to stretch it and staples to fasten it…” 

A small spiral-bound copy of his register is available for visitors to see during the house tour. Neither sheep nor any other farm animals are currently housed on the Sherwood-Jayne farm, however the tour of the two floors of the house has many surprises including wide pine floorboards salvaged from Bridgehampton’s “Old Wick’s Tavern; A beautiful pine corner cupboard from a center-hall house north of Syracuse, NY; historic coverlets; period floor covering reproductions and much more.      

Preservation Long Island offers Saturday tours of the Sherwood-Jayne Farm House (c. 1730), 55 Old Post Road, Setauket at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. through Oct. 11.  Tickets are $10 adults, $5 ages 10 to 18, free for children ages 9 and under. To reserve your spot, visit www.preservationlongisland.org/tours/.

Beverly Tyler is Three Village Historical Society historian and author of books available from the Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Rd., Setauket, NY 11733. Tel: 631-751-3730. www.TVHS.org 

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Above, one of the locations featured in the Historic Barn and Garden Tour. Photo by Kimberly Phyfe

The Three Village Historical Society and Museum (TVHS) in Setauket has announced the launch of their first Historic Barn and Garden Tour — a brand-new fundraising event in support of the ongoing construction of The Dominick-Crawford Barn Education and History Center. 

This unique event, to be held on Saturday, June 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., is the first of its kind in the Three Village area in many decades.

Above, one of the locations featured in the Historic Barn and Garden Tour. Photo by Kimberly Phyfe

“The Three Village Historical Society + Museum has long been known for ushering in the winter holiday season with our beloved Candlelight House Tour for 45 years. Now, we’re delighted to introduce what we see as its springtime cousin, an outdoor celebration that welcomes the summer season with beauty, history, and community spirit,” said Mari Irizarry, Director of the TVHS.

This exciting initiative has officially become a challenge grant fundraiser, thanks to the generous support of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, which has pledged to match every dollar raised, up to $10,000. “That means together, we can raise up to $20,000 to help bring The Barn to completion!” said Irizarry.

With the help of sponsors TBR News Media, Howard Hanna | Coach Realty and Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, this tour will take you to four beautifully preserved historic barns and six stunning gardens, where you’ll hear captivating stories of the area’s agricultural past. 

“Barns are iconic symbols of our farming heritage, and we’re honored to partner with property owners who have lovingly stewarded these historic structures for generations. The gardens you’ll explore are just as special, many of them carefully curated and nurtured by their homeowners over decades, reflecting a deep love of the land and dedication to beauty and sustainability,” said Irizarry.

Your day doesn’t end there. Visit TVHS headquarters at 93 North Country Road, Setauket, to be among the first to explore their brand new art gallery, sponsored by Cathy Minuse, opening with a “Barn and Garden” themed exhibit, and enjoy guided tours of TVHS’s ReWild Community Garden, packed with inspiration for sustainable gardening and backyard biodiversity.

In addition, Four Harbors Audubon Society will hold a Native Plant Sale on the front lawn of the historical society from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring plants for a bird-friendly garden; an assortment of native shrubs and herbaceous perennials, some of which are deer and/or shade resistant; educational exhibits; and live music for kids. 

“Join us as we celebrate the beauty of the land, the legacy of our barns, and the spirit of community, all while supporting a transformative new space for education and history at TVHS,” said Irizarry.

Tickets are $50 per person, $40 members. To order, visit www.tvhs.org/barnandgarden. For more information, please call 631-751-3730.

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From left, Dr. Suzanne Velazquez, Director Anna Smith Strong Chapter NSDAR; teacher Mrs. Gina Schwarz; Lindsey Steward-Goldberg, Education Coordinator Three Village Historical Society; and Nancy Dorney, Regent, Anna Smith Strong Chapter NSDAR. Photo by Patricia Broderick, Vice Regent, Anna Smith Strong Chapter NSDAR
Lindsey Steward-Goldberg, Education Coordinator Three Village Historical Society and Owen Kulick, 4th grade student at Arrowhead Elementary School. Photo by Patricia Broderick

The Anna Smith Strong Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution recently presented the first annual Lillian Walker Bowman Scholarship to Mrs. Gina Schwarz, a fourth-grade teacher at Arrowhead Elementary School in East Setauket, according to a press release.

The scholarship was established in loving memory of Anna Smith Strong Chapter NSDAR member Lillian Elizabeth Walker Bowman, a dedicated teacher, devoted community member, and passionate supporter for learning and history.

The scholarship included a presentation titled “Long Island Spies of the American Revolution” to the entire fourth grade class by Lindsey Steward-Goldberg, Education Coordinator of the Three Village Historical Society.

“The presentation was very timely since the Anna Smith Strong Chapter has kicked off America 250 with this and other events. This topic is also part of the fourth-grade curriculum. The Anna Smith Strong Chapter NSDAR would like to congratulate Mrs. Gina Schwarz and to thank the Three Village Historical Society and Three Village School District for collaborating with us,” read the release.

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Legislator Steve Englebright, right, presents a check to Port Jefferson Historical Society Board members, from left to right, Joan Townley, Laura Warren and Nick Acampora. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office

Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) recently presented checks to representatives from various cultural organizations in his district to help them fund future projects.

“A genuine love for community has always been a driving factor in my work,” Englebright said. “Recently, I showcased my appreciation and support for several of our district’s most beloved cultural and arts organizations through Suffolk County Omnibus Grants.”

Legislator Englebright, center, presents a check to Three Village Community Trust board members, from left to right, Robert Reuter, Greg de Bruin, Peter Legakis and Herb Mones. Photo from Legislator Englebright’s office

During Legislator Englebright’s tenure as a New York State Assemblyman, he was the Prime Sponsor of legislation that led to what is commonly referred to as the hotel-motel room fee. The intention behind this initiative that is essentially a tax on people who live outside of our county, including many from other countries was to help generate funds that would enable Suffolk County Legislators to support the Long Island tourism industry through grants for programs for the arts, music, and history. The Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning administers the awards.

“This year, I experienced numerous full-circle moments as I was pleased to be able to award numerous community cultural organizations with funding that will help support important programs that our part of the county has become known for, such as the Gallery North Wet Paint Festival, the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce’s and Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s summer concert series, and the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council’s annual Dickens Festival,” the legislator said.

Several local galleries, music venues and museums were also granted awards, such as The Reboli Center for Art and History, The Jazz Loft, and the Long Island Museum.

“In total, I was able to provide room fee-derived funds amounting to more than $150,000 to 15 local organizations which, in turn, will help nurture a vibrant scene for lovers of art, music, and history while stimulating our local economy through tourism and leisure travel,” Englebright said.

The Fifth Legislative District’s grant recipients are The Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council, Gallery North, Theatre Three, The Reboli Center, The Jazz Loft, The Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce, The Frank Melville Memorial Foundation, The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, The Three Village Historical Society, The Long Island Museum, The Port Jefferson Historical Society, The Children’s Maritime Museum (Long Island Explorium), The Three Village Community Trust, The Ward Melville Heritage Organization and The Village of Port Jefferson.

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Photo caption The Daniel Gale Foundation, the philanthropic division of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, a leader in luxury real estate, is collecting new and gently used business attire in support of its 25th annual clothing drive for Dress for Success. Donations can be dropped off  at Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty offices.  Pictured here (l-r), real estate advisors Lowell Ackerman, Veranika Johnston and Jessica Crowley.

The Daniel Gale Foundation, the philanthropic division of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, has announced the launch of its 25th annual clothing drive in support of Dress for Success.

From now through the end of May, all 29 Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty offices from Brooklyn and Queens to the Hamptons will be collecting new or gently used professional clothing and accessories to help local women dress for success—literally. Items being accepted include dress and pant suits and separates, blouses, shoes, coats, handbags, and other business-appropriate attire. All donations will benefit Dress for Success, which supports unemployed and underemployed women by providing professional attire and tools to help them succeed in their job search and career development.

“Whether it’s the first impression a property or a person makes, no one understands the power of presentation like a real estate agent,” said Deirdre O’Connell, Chief Executive Officer of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty. “But this drive is about so much more than clothes—it’s about helping women feel seen, valued, and equipped to take the next step in their careers and lives.”

Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s partnership with Dress for Success began in 2000, when agents and employees were first invited to participate in a company-wide clothing collection. Since then, the initiative has become a cherished annual tradition, with the company donating truckloads of high-quality business attire that has supported countless women on their journeys to economic independence and personal empowerment.

This year’s drive continues the legacy of service that is a hallmark of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s culture—supporting not only the communities in which its agents work but also those striving to build better futures for themselves and their families.

Community members are invited to join the effort by dropping off donations at a Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty office. To find the nearest location, visit www.danielgale.com/locations.

 

 

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This year’s distinguished honoree is Julia Poli Pecora.

The Daniel Gale Foundation, the philanthropic division of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, will be holding its Third Annual Outing on Monday, June 9 at the Huntington Country Club. The outing will offer a day of golf, tennis, and pickleball in support of the Foundation’s mission to benefit charitable causes across Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, the North Fork and the Hamptons. Last year’s event achieved 110 percent of its goal, with more than $110,000 earmarked for multiple Long Island charitable organizations. 

This year’s distinguished honoree is Julia Poli Pecora, a Huntington native and Vice President of Partnerships at UBS Arena and the New York Islanders. Now in her sixth season with the team, Julia has played a pivotal role in the franchise, leading numerous revenue generating sales efforts. Julia’s work, which was pivotal to the successful opening of UBS Arena in November of 2021, continues to greatly benefit the organization. Most notably, Julia recently secured a long-term partnership with JetBlue Airways. 

A seasoned sports industry executive with 17 years of experience, Julia has held key roles  as an executive with the National Football League, Under Armour, and FOX Sports prior to joining the NY Islanders. 

“With heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors and attendees who made our first two events a success, we anticipate another opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our neighbors in need,” said Deirdre O’Connell, Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty Chief Executive Officer and President of the Daniel Gale Foundation. “Our commitment remains steadfast – to support the communities we serve across Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island.” 

Co-chairing this year’s event for the Daniel Gale Foundation are two of its board members, Melissa Stark, Sales Manager for Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington and Northport offices and Abby Sheeline, Senior Media & Communications Strategist in the corporate office. 

To register for or to sponsor the outing please visit 3rd Annual Daniel Gale Foundation Golf Outing.  

About the Daniel Gale Foundation

The Daniel Gale Foundation was established in 2022 as part of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty’s celebration of its centennial year. Charitable donations and community outreach have been integral to the fabric of the Daniel Gale organization throughout its history through donations totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars and hundreds of volunteer hours.

As its sphere of influence has grown, so has the reach of its community giveback. The Foundation was formed to consolidate and organize the considerable charitable giving and outreach efforts of the organization’s management, staff and real estate advisors to make an even greater impact. In the three years since its formation, the Foundation has donated the equivalent of 150,000 meals to Island Harvest and City Harvest food banks during Hunger Action Month®, supported Pink Aid in its fight against breast cancer, and raised more than $300,000 for local charitable organizations from Brooklyn to the North Fork and the Hamptons.

To learn more about the Daniel Gale Foundation or make a donation, please visit www.danielgalefoundation.org.

 

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Shark Tank Showdown on April 1. Photo courtesy of The People's Arc of Suffolk
Shark Tank Showdown on April 1. Photo courtesy of The People's Arc of Suffolk
Shark Tank Showdown on April 1. Photo courtesy of The People's Arc of Suffolk
Shark Tank Showdown on April 1. Photo courtesy of The People's Arc of Suffolk
Shark Tank Showdown on April 1. Photo courtesy of The People's Arc of Suffolk

People’s Arc of Suffolk and Rise Life Services co-hosted an April Fool’s Day “Shark Tank Showdown” fundraiser on April 1 with six of its fundraisers taking a dive into the shark tank at the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead to raise funds for the two non-profit agencies. The event raised more than $60,000 for the two organizations.

The event was emceed by News 12 Long Island anchor Jenn Seelig and meteorologist Alex Calamia.

“People may have thought this was an April Fool’s Prank, but it’s no joke. People are going in,” said John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk. “We have 250 people that have come together to raise critical funds to support people with disabilities on Long Island and we’re so grateful.”

Divers suited up and entered a shark cage in pairs and were lowered into in the giant shark tank at the aquarium, accompanied by a dive master. Each duo spent about five minutes underwater, coming up close and personal with the sharks and other fish in the massive tank.

The dives were broadcast onto large screens throughout the aquarium for dinner-goers to watch.

People’s Arc, which provides services for intellectually and developmentally disabled Long Islanders, invited the 12 people who are fundraising for the event to create social media videos that were shot entirely by People’s Arc TV program participants. They operated the cameras, asked the questions and will edit the video for posting online.

The “Shark Tank Showdown” is a unique fundraising event where two individuals who raise the most and least funds will enter the 120,000-gallon shark tank at the Riverhead Aquarium for a face-to-face swim with sand tiger and nurse sharks, and a variety of exotic fish. This thrilling experience aims to raise awareness and support for programs benefiting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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From left, Deborah Pflieger, President, Board of Directors, People’s Arc of Suffolk; Brian Cabezas, Chief Operating Officer, People’s Arc of Suffolk; Andrew Richards, LIREG; John McGuigan, CEO, People’s Arc of Suffolk; Ayse Bin Csalman; Director of Residential Services, People’s Arc of Suffolk; Christina Goerler, President, AHRC Suffolk Foundation; Mary Fu, Chief Advancement Officer, People’s Arc of Suffolk surround Janice, one of nine residents of the Dix Hills home receiving the newly renovated kitchen. Photo courtesy of People's Arc
$25k project donated by the Long Island Real Estate Group
People’s Arc of Suffolk hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 26 to celebrate the renovation of the kitchen at their Dix Hills Residence, which will enhance the daily lives of the intellectually and developmentally disabled residents who live there, offering a more functional and welcoming environment.
“The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where people get together to share stories about their day,” said John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk. “For the nine people who live here, this is where they get together. It’s an integral part of the program for them.”
The renovation took approximately three weeks and saw the installation of new dining room and kitchen floors, new recessed lights, baseboard covers, window moldings, blinds, countertops, cabinets, new refrigerators, paint, and a new flattop stove. The kitchen suffered from decades of wear, including scuffed countertops, uneven floors and aging plumbing.
“This is good because I can get around easier that way,” said Janice, a 30-year resident in the house, as she surveyed the new kitchen from her motorized wheelchair.
The renovation was made possible through the generous support of the Long Island Real Estate Group, which donated $25,000 for the project. The renovation exemplifies the power of community partnerships and the commitment of the Long Island Real Estate Group to making a positive impact.
“To see people in a home, happy, to make them more comfortable, is wonderful,” said Andrew Richards, member of the LI Real Estate Group. “It’s very personal. We care. A lot of us don’t have to deal with the challenges people in this program live with every day. To be able to make this happen is very important to us.”
People’s Arc of Suffolk says the next project is renovating the bathroom, for which they are seeking a similar philanthropic partner.
About People’s Arc of Suffolk
Formerly known as AHRC Suffolk, People’s Arc of Suffolk is dedicated to creating communities where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy life to its fullest. The organization provides a wide array of services, including employment opportunities, education programs, and community engagement, all aimed at fostering an equitable and integrated community for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Follow People’s Arc of Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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Attendees at the collection event, including HLII co-founders Mary Fu (Standing, second from left) and Nicole Weingartner (standing, right) and members of the Suffolk County Office of Women’s Services. Photo courtesy of Her Long Island Influence

Her Long Island Influence (HLII), a networking group dedicated to empowering women across Long Island, collected essential items – including shampoo, conditioner, soaps, journals and razors, all stuffed into colorful backpacks – for the Suffolk County Office of Women’s Services at a recent gathering hosted by Community Care Rx in Plainview. The effort underscores the group’s commitment to uplifting and supporting women throughout the Long Island community.

“Our goal is to create a supportive and inspiring space where women can connect, grow, and thrive,” said Mary Fu, Co-Founder of Her Long Island Influence. “We Want to empower women and make a tangible impact in our community.”

The event also featured an engaging presentation Community Care RX on wellness and IV therapy, highlighting its benefits in supporting women’s health. This informative session provided attendees with valuable insights into innovative health practices, aligning with the group’s focus on personal and professional growth.

“Her Long Island Influence continues to be a driving force, attracting female leaders in every industry,” said Nicole Weingartner, Co-Founder of Her Long Island Influence. “Through events like this, we create opportunities for leadership development, collaboration, and community engagement.”

HLII was founded by Nicole L. Weingartner and Mary Fu and aims to redefine networking for women by cultivating connections, fostering growth, and amplifying voices.

For more information about Her Long Island Influence and upcoming events, please visit www.herlongislandinfluence.com.

About Her Long Island Influence (HLII):

Her Long Island Influence (HLII) is a networking group founded by Nicole L. Weingartner and Mary Fu, dedicated to redefining networking for women on Long Island. HLII focuses on cultivating connections, fostering growth, and amplifying voices, creating a supportive environment for women to thrive personally and professionally. Follow Her LI Influence on Instagram.

 

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