Eric Hurnyak and Michael Zinn in front of the 'Dazzling Lights' exhibit. Photo from MCPL
'Dazzling Lights' exhibit. Photo from MCPL
'Dazzling Lights' exhibit. Photo from MCPL
'Dazzling Lights' exhibit. Photo from MCPL
The Middle Country Public Library has announced it will host “Dazzling Lights: A pop-up exhibit,” on Saturday, March 29, and Sunday, March 30, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at its Selden location, 575 Middle Country Road.
Attendees can experience an innovative, immersive environment featuring local historic photos, artwork and animations. Upon entering the space, one will immediately observe dazzling visuals that utilize site-specific projection mapping, video and light. The creative duo Eric Hurnyak and Michael Zinn have brought this marvelous exhibit consisting of stunning 360 visuals that will morph and change into other images. Visitors will listen to coordinated audio as they are immersed in the Dazzling Lights exhibit.
All are invited to enjoy this free event. No registration required. For more information, please visit https://www.mcplibrary.org or call at 631-585-9393.
Suffolk County Community College’s Flecker Gallery, 533 College Road Selden will host a High School Art Exhibition featuring the young talent of Suffolk County high school students from March 24 through April 4, 2025. A reception and award ceremony will take place on March 27 from 5 to7 p.m. The awards will be announced at 5 p.m.for best of show, as well as additional awards for best 2D, 3D, and digital art.
The following high schools that will be Invited in the exhibition: Bayport Blue Point, Bell Port, Centereach, Comsewogue, Connetquot, East Islip, Earl L. Vandermeulen, Hauppauge, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Anthony’s, Longwood, Miller Place, Mt. Sinai, Newfield, Patchogue-Medford, Rocky Point, Sachem East, Sachem North, Sayville, Shoreham Wading River, Smithtown, and Ward Melville.
The art work will include submissions from students in the ninth through twelfth grade. All Mediums are accepted including painting, photography, collage, drawing, sculpture, digital art and time-based media. Department Chairs and art teachers from the high schools are asked to work with their students to selecting their strongest work and fill out submission forms.
Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (and by appointment). For more information, please contact the Flecker Gallery at 631-451-4093.
Rocky Point’s Abigail Hansen battles her way to the basket against Davelyn Akpan in a non-league matchup. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point freshman Julianna Longo shoots. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point freshman Giuliana Tocci with a baseline jumper. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point senior Jelissa Alba with a jumper. Photo by Bill Landon
Newfield’s Cee Cee Gregg lets a three-pointer fly. Photo by Bill Landon
Newfield sophomore Davelyn Akpan battles in the paint. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point’s Carmella Motti blocks out Mya Quinones in a non-league matchup. Photo by Bill Landon
Battle for possession. Photo by Bill Landon
Newfield junior Cee Cee Gregg scores. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point forward Kaleigh Moeller shoots. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point junior Kaleigh Moeller banks two. Photo by Bill Landon
COPYRIGHT BILL LANDON
Rocky Point’s Madelyn Portes lays up for two. Photo by Bill Landon
Rocky Point freshman Julianna Longo shoots. Photo by Bill Landon
Newfield sophomore Madison Portelli from the free throw line. Photo by Bill Landon
Newfield senior Jelissa Alba shoots. Photo by Bill Landon
Newfield sophomore Davelyn Akpan drives the lane. Photo by Bill Landon
By Bill Landon
The Rocky Point Eagles opened their 2024-25 girls’ varsity basketball campaign with a pair of non-league wins, defeating Deer Park and, with a swarming defense, downing Newfield 47-21 in a home game Tuesday. Dec. 3.
It was a three-point game after two quarters of play, but the Eagles’ defense kept the Wolverines in check, forcing turnovers and recording several blocked shots. Newfield struggled to gain traction in the final eight minutes, falling to 0-2 early in the season.
The Eagles will look to continue their winning ways when they open league play on Dec. 6, hosting Westhampton. Game time is scheduled for 4:45 p.m.
Newfield will also be back in action on Dec. 6, traveling to East Islip for another non-league matchup in search of its first win. Tipoff is at 5:45 p.m.
After an extended vote-counting process, Rebecca Kassay has defeated incumbent Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson). Official results and certification are expected from the Board of Elections in the coming weeks. As of now, Kassay is leading Flood by 813 votes.
Kassay released a statement on her Facebook page Tuesday, Nov. 26, declaring victory in the race for New York State Assembly District 4. She wrote, “After a spirited campaign, I am declaring victory in the race for New York State Assembly District 4, having secured an insurmountable lead over my opponent, Ed Flood. Official results and certification are expected from the Board of Elections in the coming weeks.”
Kassay added, “I am heartened by our community’s trust in me to bring public service back to politics. It will be a great honor to represent District 4 in the New York State Assembly and to deliver resources to our communities. As discussed during civic debates and at residents’ doors throughout my campaign, I will serve with a community-up approach — one that prioritizes transparency, communication and meaningful action on pressing issues.”
Assemblywoman-elect Kassay has already begun laying the groundwork to ensure she and her team “hit the ground running and serve the district effectively on day one.”
“Throughout the coming weeks, I will be meeting with civic groups, school district representatives, nonprofits, first responders, local government officials and other community stakeholders to collaborate on the important work of shaping the projects and policies that will guide the district forward,” the statement continued.
Kassay invites residents or groups to connect with the incoming District 4 Assembly team by emailing [email protected].
Left: Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-PortJefferson).
Right: Rebecca Kassay. Courtesy Ed Flood and Rebecca Kassay for NYS Assembly's Facebook page
By Toni-Elena Gallo
In the wake of last Tuesday’s election, the race for NYS Assembly District 4 remains to be called.
With mail-in ballots still being counted, there is no exact timeline for when results will be in.
Rebecca Kassay released a statement last Thursday, saying, “We knew that the race for the NYS
Assembly seat in District 4 would be one of the most competitive races in New York State, and as of Wednesday, November 6, I hold a 211 vote lead. In a race this close, results will not be determined until the affidavit ballots and final mail in ballots are counted. This might take until late November, so in the meantime, our team is reflecting on our gratitude for the incredible individuals and community groups who we’ve connected with and built stronger relationships with during the journey of this campaign.”
“There is so much work to be done here in our district, our town, our county and our state, and I hope to have the opportunity to serve you as your Assemblymember,” Kassay continued.
TBR requested comment from Assemblyman Flood and his response was as follows: “As we await the final numbers, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has supported me throughout this campaign. I remain deeply committed to representing, advocating for and listening to our community. This dedication is not new; it has always been the foundation of my work and will continue to guide me moving forward.”
“Serving our community is an honor, and I am committed to ensuring that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed,” he continued.
Suffolk County Community College Student, Stefanie Karayoff, was accepted to the Future Nobel Laureates Scholarship Program. Photo from SCCC
Stefanie Karayoff, a Suffolk County Community College student and a resident of Ronkonkoma, has been awarded admission into the prestigious EF Future Nobel Laureates Scholarship Program. Created with the Nobel Prize Museum and the Forum on Education Abroad, this student program is fueled by the belief that in order to change the world, students need to experience it.
Selected students will enjoy a fully funded opportunity that encompasses a project-based course, an immersive field study, and engaging sessions at the Nobel Week Dialogue in Sweden, centered on “The Future of Health.” In collaborative teams, they will brainstorm and present innovative solutions to urgent global challenges. Alongside the project-based course and international field study, scholars will have the chance to learn from global thought leaders, enriching their understanding and expanding their perspectives.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this scholarship,” said Stefanie. “This opportunity will not only enhance my education but also allow me to engage with diverse perspectives and contribute to meaningful conversations on global challenges.”
Stefanie is currently pursuing a degree in Engineering Science at Suffolk County Community College, where she has consistently excelled in her studies and demonstrated a commitment to community service and leadership. Her passions include robotics and STEM advocacy.
“This scholarship is a testament to Stefanie’s hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President, Suffolk County Community College. “We are proud to have her represent the College on this international platform.”
Stony Brook University, a SUNY flagship institution, is partnering with Suffolk County Community College to support a “Seawolves at Suffolk” program. The program provides Suffolk students with a transfer pathway that moves them from admission, to academic and social engagement with the university, and through transfer and graduation from Stony Brook.
Seawolves at Suffolk
Recently, Stony Brook University received a $500,000 Innovation Driven by Evidence and Advanced Strategies (IDEAS) grant from American Talent Initiative (ATI) College Excellence Program (CEP) and Bloomberg Philanthropies. The grant aims to amplify the power and potential of transfer students from lower income communities through high impact experiences, research-centered opportunities, and the development of workforce-ready skills. The university is partnering with neighboring SUNY Suffolk to support these initiatives.
“Seawolves at Suffolk” centers around an accelerated on-ramp to a paid summer research/internship opportunity with Stony Brook researchers in the summer prior to students transferring to the university. This is complemented by providing:
unique workshops
earlier access to university campus life
supported student leadership pipelines
comprehensive advising support with university advisors at SUNY Suffolk
priority course registration
mini-grants to take upper-division courses at Stony Brook before transferring
additional wrap-around support from success specialists and career coaches
Within this innovative program, selected students who have been referred to SUNY Suffolk from Stony Brook University will be part of a cohort of students who begin their studies at SUNY Suffolk, with a shared goal of becoming a Seawolf. SUNY Suffolk is the largest community college in the SUNY system and sister institution to Stony Brook University. By beginning their studies at SUNY Suffolk, and meeting certain transfer milestones, students in the program will be guaranteed entry into select Stony Brook University programs, including Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, English, Psychology, and more.
SUNY Suffolk transfers hundreds of students per year to Stony Brook University, far more than any other community college. Together, the two institutions maintain a strong and ongoing partnership in areas ranging from National Science Foundation research projects to internships at Brookhaven National Laboratories.
“Thanks to Bloomberg Philanthropies, accepted transfer students from Suffolk County Community College are already a part of the Stony Brook University community prior to their first day of classes,” said Interim Stony Brook President Richard L. McCormick. “This grant, awarded by the American Talent Initiative, allows us to expand our commitment to social mobility while providing transfer students with paid experiential learning, academic advising, and career counseling opportunities.”
“SUNY Suffolk has always prepared our graduates for success at elite colleges and universities like Stony Brook. With support from the American Talent Initiative grant, we will provide Suffolk students with an accelerated pathway to engagement at SBU, as well as experiential learning. This partnership allows us to support even more deserving Long Island students and families to live, learn and stay on Long Island,” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College.
Suffolk County Community College nursing students in front of the new college signage. Photo from SCCC
From left, John Vidovich (Jane's brother); Mary Lou Araneo, College Vice President for Institutional Advancement; Laurie Vidovich (Jane's sister-in-law); Doug Shearer (Jane's husband); Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine; College President Dr. Edward Bonahue; and College Dean of Nursing Dr. Cheryl Shaffer. Photo from SCCC
Suffolk County Community College has announced the renaming of its nursing school to the Jane F. Shearer School of Nursing, honoring the memory of Jane F. Shearer, who dedicated over 30 years of exemplary service to the college. Jane, who served as the Eastern Campus Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and President of the Guild of Administrative Officers, passed away from cancer in 2019.
Jane long appreciated the vital role that nurses play both locally and globally. Upon her passing, her generous and loving family chose to endow a scholarship to support nursing students in perpetuity at the college. To further their commitment, the family subsequently decided to share her name in memoriam by establishing the Jane F. Shearer School of Nursing at Suffolk County Community College.
“Naming an academic program or campus space for an individual or an organization is a meaningful way to signify a valued connection between the namesake and the college” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College. “Jane’s passion for education and her unwavering support for our students will continue to inspire future generations of nursing leaders. The college community is grateful to the entire Shearer and Vidovich families.”
“Suffolk meant so much to Jane, and Jane meant so much to so many people,” said John Vidovich, Jane’s brother. “This naming gift will further Jane’s legacy and help to foster future generations of nursing students.”
The college’s Foundation recently hosted the First Annual Jane F. Shearer School of Nursing Luncheon at the Watermill in Smithtown. During the program, the family announced that proceeds from the event will help defray the costs associated with paying for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), which is needed in order to become a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) in New York. Many nursing students at Suffolk County Community College often balance multiple jobs to manage tuition costs, and this final exam fee poses a significant financial hurdle.
Honorary luncheon chair, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, stated that tomorrow is not promised to anyone. “Jane’s family has made a remarkable gift that will ensure the quality of healthcare being delivered across Suffolk County will always be of the highest quality. Ongoing excellence in the education of tomorrow’s nurse leaders is assured through this gift.
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The Practical Nurse Program at Suffolk County Community College is located at the East campus in Riverhead.
The Associate Degree Program in Nursing at Suffolk County Community College is available at the Ammerman campus located in Selden and the Michael J. Grant campus located in Brentwood.
Collaboration to raise funds for Positively Pink During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Paprocky Motorsports has teamed up with Middle Country Automotive of Selden to launch the “Racing For A Cure” initiative, joining the fight against breast cancer throughout October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This collaboration aims to raise awareness and funds for Positively Pink, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by breast cancer.
On-site at MCA of Selden, key partners came together to promote the campaign. Pictured are Suzanne & Troy Schmidt, Owners of MCA; Alyssa Paprocky, driver of the MCA-sponsored race car; mechanic and local Selden Firefighter Mathew Parrish; Lenore Paprocky, President of the Greater Middle Country Chamber; Councilman Neil Manzella and Legislator Nick Caracappa; and Maria McMullen, founder of Positively Pink. This powerful team is united by a shared mission to make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.
Throughout October, Middle Country Auto of Selden will run fundraising efforts and with proceeds benefiting Positively Pink’s life-changing programs.
“It’s about the community,” said Troy Schmidt. “We are proud to harness the excitement of motorsports to support such a vital cause. This initiative shows what we can accomplish when we combine passion with purpose. We encourage everyone to stop by MCA and support.”
Maria McMullen, founder of Positively Pink, expressed gratitude for the initiative, saying, “Partnerships like this help us continue our mission of providing vital services to those facing breast cancer. Every dollar raised has a meaningful impact.”
To participate, donate, or learn more about “Racing with a Cause,” visit Middle Country Automotive at 839 Middle Country Road in Selden. All money collected will be matched by MCA. For more information, call 631-698-4455.
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon'
Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon' Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon' Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon' Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon' Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon' Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon' Photo by Julianne Mosher
The cast of 'The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon'
Photo by Julianne Mosher
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.
The following high schools that will be Invited in the exhibition: Bayport Blue Point, Bell Port, Centereach, Comsewogue, Connetquot, East Islip, Earl L. Vandermeulen, Hauppauge, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Anthony’s, Longwood, Miller Place, Mt. Sinai, Newfield, Patchogue-Medford, Rocky Point, Sachem East, Sachem North, Sayville, Shoreham Wading River, Smithtown, and Ward Melville.
