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MAKING HISTORY: Port Jefferson hosts annual APHNYS conference

by Heidi Sutton - October 7, 2024

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By Heidi Sutton

The Association of Public Historians of New York State held its annual conference in Port Jefferson from Sept. 16 to 18. The event, held at Danford”s Hotel and Marina, drew more than 100 government-appointed historians and affiliates from across the state.

Participants attended workshops, panels, and presentations that explored this year’s theme, “It’s a Whale of a Tale: Outstanding Narratives in New York State History,” and took part in walking tours of the Drowned Meadow Cottage Museum, The Mather House Museum at the Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson, and Bayles Boat Shop and enjoyed exploring the beautiful seaport village.

Guests were also treated to a special historic photography exhibit on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, A Glance at the Empire State: A collection of photos from the past, curated by Port Jefferson Historian Chris Ryon. The exhibit is on view through October.

Pictured at the event are, from left, Town of Brookhaven Historian Barbara M Russell; Suffolk County Legislators Steve Englebright and Chad Lennon; Suffolk County Historian Peter Fox Cohalan; New York State Historian Devin Lander; Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine; and APHNYS President Christine Ridarsky.

Sweetbriar Nature Center hosts 7th annual Taps and Talons fundraiser

by Jennifer Donatelli - October 5, 2024

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image1 (6) — A scene from Sweetbriar Nature Center's 2024 Taps and Talons fundraiser. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

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By Jennifer Donatelli

Sweetbriar Nature Center, located in the heart of Smithtown, hosted its 7th annual Taps and Talons fundraiser on Sunday, Sept. 29, from 2 to 6 p.m.

The event, which draws hundreds of people from the local community each year, featured live music, food, raffles and the main attraction: wildlife demonstrations.

Elizabeth Santosus, chairman of the board at Sweetbriar Nature Preserve, explained, “I came up with the idea for this event when I visited family in Alabama and attended something similar there. I took their concept, brought it to Long Island, and we held our first Taps and Talons fundraiser in 2017.”

“It’s a great community and everyone’s mellow and laid back. I just want to make the people happy, and this is our way of doing just that,” she continued.

A special perk of the event are the local breweries and beer clubs that come to donate their drinks and educate people on the art of homebrewing.

In addition to the beer, food is also a major draw. Volunteers and food trucks served everything from Alabama pulled pork and ribs to homemade lasagna.

Visitors were thrilled to see the center’s owls up close, take pictures and learn about the rehabilitation programs offered at Sweetbriar.

Sue Dawson, a resident of Smithtown who attended the event with her friend, said she has been coming to Sweetbriar Nature for over 40 years.

“I love this place and I love this event especially because I get thirsty and need a beer,” Dawson said with a laugh.

Sweetbriar Nature Center is situated on 54 acres of varied gardens, woodlands, fields and wetland habitats along the Nissequogue River. Hundreds of species of plants and animals call this land home.

All proceeds from the event will help the center in its mission to educate the public about native wildlife and rehabilitation. Through education and examples, they encourage responsible decision-making, appreciation and respect for the unique wildlife and ecosystems found on the Island. You can find out more about the nature preserve on their website, www.sweetbriar.org.

Shelter Pets of the Week: Johnny Cash and June Carter

by Heidi Sutton - October 4, 2024

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MEET JOHNNY AND JUNE!

This week’s shelter pets are the inseparable pair of Johnny Cash and June Carter, available for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter!

Johnny (male) and June (female) sport matching red and brown coats and are approximately four years old. They are both pint-sized meatballs, about the same size as a bulldog.

Their introductions to the public began when they were found wandering in Kings Park. It quickly became clear that this exquisite pair had been used for breeding purposes and later carelessly discarded. Despite their misfortune, Johnny and June are two incredibly sweet, loveable house hippos! They enjoy tons of attention and never miss an opportunity to shine in the spotlight. This stunning duo deserves nothing short of finding a great family to show them what a fairytale ending really looks like.

These two have been through a lot together and adore each other. The team at the shelter would be thrilled if they could live happily ever after together however, under the right circumstances they can be separated.

While June could possibly be placed in a home with other dogs, the only one for Johnny is June. They both would do well with children over the age of ten. They are young and healthy, however June has heat intolerance which needs to be managed.

If you are interested in meeting Johnny and June, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

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

For more information regarding rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com

Miller Place Panthers football rains on Port Jeff Royals’ homecoming

by Bill Landon - October 4, 2024

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By Bill Landon

The Miller Place Panthers rained on Port Jeff’s homecoming football game under a persistent drizzle, shutting out the Royals 41-0 in the League IV matchup on Saturday afternoon, Sept. 28.

Port Jeff (0-2) struggled offensively against a stout Panther defense and failed to gain any traction, searching for that first elusive win in this early season.

Miller Place quarterback Shane Kiernan and wide receiver Ethan Monaco were a potent combination, scoring on a 32-yard pass play and 60-yarder for the win. Kiernan passed for 202 yards, completing nine of 11 passes, during the afternoon.

The win lifts the Panthers to 2-1 and they will travel to Babylon, Saturday, Oct. 5, with a 6 p.m. kickoff scheduled.

The Royals are also back in action on Saturday, with a road game against Southampton. Game time is slated for 2 p.m.

— Photos by Bill Landon

St. Catherine of Siena Hospital hosts 33rd annual fall community health fair

by Jennifer Donatelli - October 4, 2024

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By Jennifer Donatelli

Under a big white tent, St. Catherine of Siena Hospital hosted its 33rd Annual Fall Community Health Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9am – 12pm.

Located on 25A in Smithtown, the hospital draws hundreds of community members every year, along with local organizations and businesses, to offer free on-site services and to raise awareness on the importance of healthcare.

Visitors to this free event had the opportunity to meet with health care professionals, from over 50 specialties, for a Q&A. Hands-on demonstrations of the hospital’s latest advances in technology were also performed for onlookers.

Additionally, free flu shots were given, as well as on-site cholesterol and glucose testing, BMI screenings and blood pressure readings.

There was even a Teddy Bear Clinic, where children brought their favorite stuffed animals to be treated as real “hospital patients.” Children also enjoyed face painting and pumpkin decorating, along with free puzzles, coloring sheets and crayons, to take home.

Visitors were given the chance to learn about healthy eating and nutrition, while sampling New England clam chowder, gluten-free, pumpkin-chocolate chip loaves, chili and hot apple cider.

Declan Doyle, President of the hospital discussed what an exciting time this is for the hospital, saying, “I can sense the enthusiasm in the staff. They were all pumped up and looking forward to this day, so they could educate the public about [all things health.”

In addition to what happens inside of the hospital, Mary Ellen McCrossen, the hospital’s Community Relations Manager, explained the free services St. Catherine’s offers, within the local community, including health education seminars and library events. The hospital works with local school districts to educate students on healthy eating, strokes, diabetes and general wellness, as well.

McCrossen says, “At St. Catherine’s, we care for each other in body, mind and spirit. All three are equally important. The best way to help people heal is to have all three in sync.”

Sen. Mario Mattera (R-St. James,) from the 2nd Senate District, was at the event and provided some of his thoughts on the annual fair.

“St. Catherine of Siena is very important to the local community, especially our seniors who may not have access to funds or resources,” he said.

“They can come to this facility and get the flu vaccine and other testing, free of charge. This hospital is so important to the Smithtown community, [and that is why we need] to promote the hospital as much as possible,” he continued.

He went on to thank the hospital’s staff for all the hard work they do “for us each day,” and pledged to make St. Catherine’s prosper.

For more information about St. Catherine of Siena, you can visit their website at www.catholichealthli.org.

Huntington’s Pink in the Park event a success

by Press Release - September 30, 2024

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Over 60 vendors and local officials show support for breast cancer prevention

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The Town of Huntington’s Pink in the Park Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness Fair, held on September 29 at Heckscher Park, was a resounding success. The event, spearheaded by Councilwoman Theresa Mari, drew over 60 vendors and a strong show of support from local officials and the community. Attendees enjoyed a beautiful walk around Heckscher Park, despite a few brief weather interruptions, and were treated to a vibrant performance by Dancin’ Feet that energized the crowd.

Local officials who joined the event to show their support included Supervisor Ed Smyth, Councilman Salvatore Ferro, Director of Highway Andre Sorrentino, Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (18th District), Director of Parks Cable “Todd” Jamison, Chief of Staff Michelle McCarthy, Town Attorney Susan Coleman, Congressman Nick LaLota, and Huntington Republican Party Chairman Thomas McNally. Their participation highlighted the collective commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer prevention and supporting those affected by the disease.

Councilwoman Theresa Mari, a breast cancer survivor herself, shared her personal journey and underscored the importance of early detection and community support. Senator Mario Mattera (2nd District) also spoke passionately about his wife Terry’s battle with breast cancer, adding a deeply personal and touching perspective to the event.

“The success of Pink in the Park wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of so many,” said Councilwoman Mari. “I am incredibly grateful to all the vendors, local officials, and attendees who came together to create such a supportive and inspiring day for our community.”

Councilwoman Mari’s team, Legislative Aide Michelle Wright and Legislative Secretary Phillip Griffin, ensured the event went off without a hitch. They were on hand to assist vendors, the press, and attendees, and helped distribute promotional bags to those in attendance.

The event served as a vital platform for sharing breast cancer resources, raising awareness, and fostering community solidarity. Pink in the Park was more than just a fair; it was a day of hope, healing, and empowerment for those touched by breast cancer.

For more information on future events or breast cancer resources, please visit the Town of Huntington’s website or contact the office of Councilwoman Theresa Mari at 631-351-3173.

Dunkin’ restaurant in Smithtown celebrates grand reopening

by Press Release - September 27, 2024

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Members of the local community and Dunkin’ fans alike poured into Dunkin’s newly remodeled next generation restaurant at 560 Smithtown Bypass in Smithtown on Sept. 19 as part of its grand reopening ceremony.

Dunkin’ franchisee Scott Campbell of Metro Franchising commemorated the occasion with a $2,500 donation to The Viscardi Center. The Viscardi Center is a non-profit organization that educates, employs, and empowers children, adults, and veterans with disabilities or similar needs, so they can all discover the love of learning, the power of work, the freedom of independent living, and the self-confidence to fulfill their dreams.

“The Henry Viscardi School is proud to be the recipient of such generous support from Metro Franchising and Dunkin’,” said The Viscardi Center Chief Development Officer Lauren Marzo. “Our relationship spans well over a decade, and Dunkin’s support has helped provide critical programs for our students with severe disabilities. These programs help our students learn, grow and take important steps toward an independent future.”

The celebration also included New York State Senator Mario Mattera, Suffolk County Undersheriff John Becker, members of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fourth Precinct, members of the Smithtown Fire Department and representatives on behalf of U.S. Congressman Nick LaLota, who joined Dunkin’ representatives for a commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The morning featured all guests receiving a free medium hot or iced coffee and a donut, while many other Dunkin’ Rewards members spun the Dunkin’ prize wheel for free Dunkin’ merchandise.

The 2,000-square-foot Dunkin’ employs 20 crew members and is open daily from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m.

For more information, call 631-257-5072.

St. Andrew’s Church hosts a little taste of Germany in Smithtown

by TBR Staff - September 27, 2024

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By Craig Brown

On Sept. 21, the spirit of Oktoberfest was alive and well at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church’s annual German Festival in Smithtown.

Over 1,000 attendees from Smithtown and across Long Island gathered to celebrate German culture, food, drink and music. The atmosphere buzzed with joy and laughter as the community came together to support a church dedicated to making a positive impact.

Pastor Jean Dougherty shared the event’s mission, saying, “We are an inclusive church, and we want everyone in this community to feel welcome here.” With a passion for the youth of Long Island, Pastor Dougherty worked alongside the Smithtown West German Honor Society to set up various tents selling merchandise, including German desserts, shirts, hats and a popular hair-braiding station for children. Festival-goers strolled the grounds, enjoying the sounds of Troubadours dressed in Lederhosen and Alpine hats, playing the accordion and singing festive songs.

Barbara English, the festival organizer, donned a bright blue, German Dirndl.

“This is the seventh year we have done this. It is a wonderful way to reach the community,” she beamed. Despite a recent storm that flooded the church’s basement, causing thousands in damages, the volunteers were determined to help the church recover. A 50/50 raffle was held to raise funds for restoration.

The sunny, warm weather created the perfect backdrop for families to enjoy a hearty meal featuring bratwursts, Bavarian pretzels, pickles and plenty of German beer. Many attendees sipped from crafted steins adorned with mountains, lakes and goats, evoking the charm of The Sound of Music.

Jon Leicht, a Smithtown resident and German culture enthusiast, praised the event, saying it offered families a wonderful way to enjoy a Saturday afternoon together. Wayne Mennecke, a Bay Shore poet, added insight, noting that while food lines were long, they allowed people to relish the music, converse with friends and soak up the beautiful day.

91-year-old proves age is just a number: veteran volunteer leads bus shelter restoration

by Dylan Friedman - September 27, 2024

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By Dylan Friedman

A Port Jefferson bus shelter in front of the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce building on West Broadway has been given a new life thanks to the generosity of a team of philanthropic local Rotary Club individuals, including 91-year-old Al Kopcienski of Miller Place.

Kopcienski, who worked on the original structure in 2006 and the recent restoration of the structure’s roof and windows on Sept. 17, said that the motivation for the project came simply from seeing how many people used that bus stop.

“If you think about it, that was a bus stop for a year and a half since Suffolk County started the bus route, and at the beginning there was nothing there. Anybody waiting for a bus [in the rain] would have to stand out … with umbrellas, if they had them — if not, they got wet,” he said.

“And then, with the original shelter they built, if you had a slight rain, you couldn’t stay there because you got wet. But with our design, people could stay in there and wait for the bus. It’s amazing how many people use the bus stop there. That was our motivation to accommodate the people that use mass transit,” Kopcienski added.

He graduated from Port Jefferson High School in 1950 and worked with his brother in farming before running a plumbing, heating and fuel business for 33 years. Kopcienski formally retired in 1989.

Among his many voluntary posts, he has served as president of Mount Sinai School District Board of Education, more than 60 years with Port Jefferson Rotary Club, and with Miller Place Fire Department where he served as chief from 1967-68.

Dr. Patrick Sabo, a fellow Port Jeff Rotary Club member with Kopcienski who worked on both the original shelter and its recent restoration, was quick to commend his colleague for his contributions.

“I have to give kudos to Al Kopcienski. He is in his 90s, he is still a Rotarian, and he still volunteers to drive an ambulance during the week. He’s the one who built the bus shelter in 2006, and he was down there with us putting the roof on it. I got to give him a lot of credit,” Sabo said.

At the remarkable age of 91, Kopcienski’s passion for community service continues to burn brightly. While he jokes about not replacing the shingles on the Port Jefferson bus shelter again, his ongoing involvement in projects at Chandler Estate in Mount Sinai and Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck in Center Moriches continuously demonstrate his unwavering dedication to making a difference, regardless of the endeavor.

The Chandler Estate “laid fallow for a long time, and Dr. Sabo, he and I … we opened up paths, and now we have people that go for walks, bird watching and [enjoying] animals and stuff like that, and sits right on Mount Sinai Harbor,” Kopcienski said.

“Another big project we have is a hands-on project, Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, which is a camp for disabled children out in Center Moriches. Probably 40 years ago, we started going out there and giving it a day’s labor, cleaning up the place, painting, raking leaves, this, that, and everything just to get the camp ready for the summer kids,” he added.

As Kopcienski continues to inspire others with his tireless volunteer work, the Port Jefferson bus shelter stands as a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of his fellow citizens. Even at the age of 91, his unwavering and consistent dedication to service remains an extraordinary example for all.

Theater Review: Whodunit mystery ‘Clue’ opens at the John W. Engeman Theater

by Julianne Mosher - September 27, 2024

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A hilarious comedy based on the movie and board game comes to life in Northport

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By Julianne Mosher

Not sure what to do next weekend? Well, here’s a clue.

The John W. Engeman Theater’s latest production of CLUE is a witty murder mystery filled with twists and turns all based on the 1985 film starring Tim Curry that was inspired by the classic Hasbro board game.

It begins in 1954 at the Boddy Manor, an eerie, isolated mansion where six random guests are invited under unusual circumstances to a dinner party. Welcomed by the butler, Wadsworth (Michael Keyloun) and Yvette, the maid (Arianne Davidow), each guest comes to the door unsure as to why they were invited by the mansion’s owner, Mr. Boddy (Cody Gerszewski).

Each guest is called by a pseudonym for confidentiality: Colonel Mustard (Danny Rothman), Mrs. White (Christina DeCicco), Mrs. Peacock (Thursday Farrar), Mr. Green (Patrick Harvey), Professor Plum (Ken King) and Miss Scarlet (Lauren Weinberg). All from different backgrounds (for example, Mrs. Peacock is wife to a high-profile senator, Mrs. White’s three husbands mysteriously died and Miss Scarlet is a popular Washington D.C. madam), they share one thing — a secret.

At the start of the evening, the cook of the mansion (Suzanne Mason) brings out dinner and the guests discover they all hold government influence in one form or another. When Mr. Boddy finally arrives, he explains that he is blackmailing the group. Wadsworth is told to call the police and Boddy hands the guests six weapons as “gifts” to kill the butler in order to protect their secrets; a candlestick, rope, lead pipe, wrench, revolver and dagger.

The theater’s lights go out and a there’s a loud gunshot. Mr. Boddy is dead on the floor. But who did it?

To figure out who the killer of the group is, they split up and while walking through the mansion are met with all different shenanigans. They’re met with visits from outsiders who are somehow related to people in the house — like the motorist (Gerszewski), a telegram girl (Mason) and a cop (Jeremy McClelland). They end up dead, too.

In just 90 minutes, the board game comes to life on stage with colorful characters leaving the audience wondering who, where and with what.

With a small cast, each actor embodies the characters of the game and movie with perfection. Keyloun’s portrayal of the butler (made famous by Tim Curry in the film) has the audience belly laugh with his wit and expressive skill as he moves across the stage. Other standout performances include Davidow, Rothman, DeCicco, Farrar, Harvey, King, Weinberg, Gerszewski, Mason and McClelland who are hysterical in their own ways; whether it’s Miss Scarlet’s seductive humor or Mr. Green’s silly clumsiness, there was always a smile in the crowd.

Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn and written by Sandy Rustin, the Engeman’s production is directed by Marc Tumminelli. The costume design from Dustin Cross is representative of the characters we’ve seen on the board games’ cards with a 1950s fashionable flair that colors the eerie stage set (designed by Kyle Dixon).

The stage set as the manor is an impressive one. Not only does one feel like they’re in the foyer of the house, but when they need to be in the parlor, the dining room or the den, the stage has doors that open and pull out to the room where the characters are inside. The doors are used often and usually in a campy way.

So, was it Professor Plum with the revolver in the parlor? Or maybe it was Colonel Mustard with the wrench in the hall? One thing is for sure … it should be you with a ticket in hand parked in a seat to watch this fantastic show.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents CLUE through Oct. 27. The season continues with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from Nov. 14 to Dec. 29. Tickets range from $80 to $100 with free valet parking. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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