Photo Gallery

By Bill Landon

The Port Jefferson girls volleyball team, defending Long Island champions, have picked up where they left off last season. Winning. Through 10 games, the Lady Royals are undefeated but what’s remarkable is in all of these games — the best of five sets — the Royals have swept all of their opponents 3-0, not having lost a single set.

Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 8, was no different when Port Jeff hosted Southampton in a League VII matchup. Despite falling behind in two of those sets, the Royals swept the Mariners, who were on a six-game winning streak, 25-19, 25-18, 25-13.

Ava Reilly the sophomore, has been the cornerstone of the Royals success doing what she’s done all season long leading her team in assists with 30. McKayla Pollard recorded 16 kills along with seven digs and Thea Mangels notched four service aces. Bianca Nakagawa inked seven kills and Lina DeLeo killed six along with eight digs. Hannah Pflaster, the libero, spent a lot of time on the deck, digging out 11.

The win lifts the Royals to 11-0 with five games remaining before postseason play begins.   

— Photos by Bill Landon 

By Bill Landon

It was the Jaguar Drivers Club of Long Island’s 51st edition of their annual car show held on the Great Lawn of the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Mansion, Museum & Planetarium Sunday afternoon, Oct. 6. The show, known as the Jaguar Invitational Concours d’Elegance, was held under brilliant sunshine and deep blue skies in the heart of Centerport, overlooking Long Island Sound. 

Jaguars and anything British adorned the lawn of the 43-acre estate as the entries were judged in several different categories: Championship, Driven and Special Division as well as the People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice awards.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Time to vote! Above are just a few of the 43 unique and creative scarecrows of all shapes, sizes and characters that line the walkways througout the Stony Brook Village Center for the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s 34th Annual Scarecrow Competition. 

You have until Friday, October 25 to vote for your favorite in three categories: Professional, Adults/Family, and Children. Winning scarecrows will win cash prizes based on the number of votes they receive from the public. Ballots can be found in all the shops and restaurants. Once completed, ballots can be returned to any shop to be counted in for voting. Winners will be announced at the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s 34th Annual Halloween Festival on Oct. 31.

This year’s event is generously sponsored by Suffolk Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy, Green Towers Group, Apple Bank, Dr. Rocco Morelli, and Dr. Robert Quilty.

 For more information, call 631-751-2244.

By Julianne Mosher

Not all fairy tales have a happy ending despite what “the mouse” wants you to think.

Don Zolidis’ The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon is Suffolk County Community College’s latest production at Theatre 119 located on the Ammerman Campus in Selden. The show recreates all 209 fairy tales written by the Brothers Grimm including Rapunzel, Rumpelstiltskin, Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and more. But don’t expect the fairy Godmother to make an appearance or for the characters to break into song — this isn’t a Disney show.

When the red curtain opens, we’re introduced to two narrators, River Monastero and Krystian Karwowski. Dressed in the most whimsical costumes (from designer Andrew Wittkamper), the two attempt to tell the fables and tales combined into one giant story in a fast-paced and super clever extravaganza. Both have a way of sharing the tales with a great presence on stage.

Directed by Bryan Kimmelman, the show has no intermission, which means the audience gets a full hour-and-a-half of a hysterically fun (and sometimes improved) show that is different than anything else you’ve ever seen before.

Set in various fairy tale locations, the story begins with a dirt-poor girl who makes three deals with the devil, a witch, and Rumpelstiltskin. The girl meets a prince, falls in love, finds riches and has a baby (who ends up being an angsty teenage Rapunzel dressed in her leather jacket and cell phone in hand). We learn that Rapunzel’s grandmother was actually Gretel (of Hansel and Gretel) and from there on several fables and fairy tales intertwine into one large hodgepodge of silly, chaos, magic and randomness. 

The show features modern and exaggerated humor, and the actors add modern interpretations to the stories — for example a sassy fashion show where the stage turns into a catwalk to prove who really is the fairest of them all. 

The talented students of SCCC play multiple parts — a feat that proves difficult considering the show is so quickly paced. Karwowski shines playing the narrator (along with the devil and as dwarf number 2), while other actors including Nicholas Maggipinto  (the actor, Hansel, Johannes), John Woolard (dirt merchant prince, prince number 2), Isabella Romero (Snow White, the enchantress), Kite Harrison (witch number 2, Rumpelstiltskin), Christina Keller (Plinkie Plie, Rapunzel), Aiden Gomez (the king, dwarf number 1, heckling audience member), Mia Lombardi (the girl, Gretel, Cinderella) and Mollie Sebor (the witch, the talking raven and the queen) show off their talent by switching characters not only by act, but within the same scene. 

You might want to brush up on your Grimm’s fairy tales, though, because they also delve into some of the more obscure stories like Lean Lisa and The Devil’s Grandmother. The narrators often break the fourth wall, so be prepared to get involved as you are expected to help prevent Hansel and Gretel from going into the witch’s house by yelling, “don’t go in there!” anytime they make a poor decision (as one does in any good horror movie).

You’ll laugh your gold slippers off (no, not glass slippers … again, this isn’t Disney), so be sure to check this show out. 

The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building, SCCC Ammerman, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m. and on Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID are offered one free ticket. To order, please call the box office at 631-451-4163.

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.

A scene from Sweetbriar Nature Center's 2024 Taps and Talons fundraiser. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

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.

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 

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

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.

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

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.