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Tony Hale and Anna Kendrick in a scene from the film. Photo from Netflix

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

In the world of truth-is-stranger-than-fiction, Netflix’s Woman of the Hour tackles the story of serial killer Rodney Alcala and his September 13, 1978, appearance on The Dating Game. Directed by Anna Kendrick and written by Ian McDonald, the film tells the story through bachelorette Cheryl Bradshaw (played by Kendrick), who selected him, focusing on her experience on the show and dealing with systemic sexism. The film premiered on September 8, 2023, to a positive response at the Toronto Film Festival.

Actor Bradshaw scrapes by in Los Angeles, attempting to make her way into film and television. “I’m working very hard and accomplishing very little,” she reflects. After a particularly depressing audition, her agent gets her a spot on the popular game show. Reluctantly, Bradshaw agrees to appear. The film is mostly taken up with the time from her arrival at the studio through her segments on the show. Intercut are several of Alcala’s horrific rape and murders, beginning with one in Wyoming in 1977, which opens the film.

During the show’s taping, Bradshaw goes rogue, changing the questions to more pointed and revealing interrogations of the three bachelors. The first proves to be a bit of a fool, the second inappropriate, with Alcala coming off as smooth, witty, and a touch thoughtful. 

Bradshaw chooses Alcala, and the second bachelor warns her not to go near him. After leaving the studio, Bradshaw and Alcala have a few drinks in a nearby bar. Quickly, Bradshaw realizes that there is something off about him and exits the bar with him in pursuit. She is only saved by a group of men coming out of the studio.

In her directorial debut, Kendrick proves to be first-rate. She instinctually knows what to show and when to pull back, maintaining a constant tension in the film’s brisk ninety-minute running time.

Sometimes, Alcala’s crimes are shown in all their horror; other times, they are suggested by a sun-drenched landscape with just the sound of the victim. The film is spot-on as an indictment of toxic masculinity and misogyny leading to violence. In both the casual dismissal of women to the horrific rape and torture, Kendrick creates a taught, unflinching, and brutal film. Even the use of Alcala’s photography, particularly the enhanced sound of the shutter clicks, adds to the exceptional storytelling. Additionally, the film captures the visual and auditory essence of 1970s California.

Some of the film’s wisdom is courtesy of the make-up artist, Marilyn (a very strong Denalda Williams): “Is it possible to get a guy in this town who isn’t a total maniac?” Later, she follows this up: “The question beneath the question. Which of you will hurt me?” Her casual statement delivers a wallop and succinctly but pointedly expresses the overall thesis.

As a true crime docudrama, Woman of the Hour is less successful. McDonald has fictionalized a great deal for storytelling purposes, and one must at least pause to consider the validity of the choices. Most viewers will take the film at face value without looking into the actual facts and history. Since the film is short, much information is changed or left out.

The only subplot deals with an audience member, Laura (Nicolette Robinson), recognizing Alcala as the man who most likely murdered her friend after a beach party encounter. The way the security guard deals with her accusation is chilling. Unfortunately, Laura is a fiction. This is one of many introduced changes and additions without indicating where liberties were taken. In reality, Bradshaw stuck to the innuendo-laden questions, and the bachelors were dissimilar to the film’s counterparts.

Kendrick, a first-rate actor, shows dimension, fear, strength, and resolve. Always watchable, she delivers at every moment. Daniel Zovatto succeeds in making Alcala wholly plausible—a sadistic, dangerous, and threatening narcissist who knows how to turn on the charm. Tony Hale is appropriately sleazy and short-tempered as the gameshow host Ed Burke, based on Jim Lange. Some of the finest moments belong to Autumn Best as the runaway, Amy, who survives Alcala’s attack. Her raw performance resonates to her final cut-off scream. (However, the reality of the runaway’s story is very different than that offered in the film.)

At the time of his appearance on The Dating Game, Alcala was responsible for the murder of five women and the attempted murder of eight-year-old Tali Shapiro; he was on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. He had served thirty-four months for child molestation and spent two-and-a-half years in prison for giving drugs to a thirteen-year-old girl. 

Because there were no background checks—or vetting of any kind—Alcala easily landed a spot on the show. Two years after his Dating Game appearance, Alcala was convicted of the murder of twelve-year-old Robin Samsoe and sentenced to death. The overturned verdict caused a 1986 retrial, where he was found guilty and sentenced to death (the ruling was overturned in 2011). While remaining on California’s death row, he died at the age of natural causes at the age of seventy-seven. Some of this information is presented in the final scroll, but most are not. Alcala was directly linked to eight murders, but his actual crimes could have encompassed up to one hundred and thirty victims. 

Those looking for a detailed account of Alcala’s crimes should seek the three-part documentary series Dating Death. However, viewers open to more flexible telling will find that Woman of the Hour viscerally lays bare both the killer and danger of a hyper-toxic macho culture.

Rated R, the film is now streaming on Netflix.

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Amazon Fresh held a ribbon cutting for its East Setauket store on Oct. 24. Photo from Long Island Cares
Amazon Fresh presented a check in the amount of $10,000 to Long Island Cares/Island Harvest during the Oct. 24 grand opening/ribbon cutting. Pictured from left, Ginger Belesi, Office of Assembly Member Ed Flood; Omar Ventura, Amazon Fresh Store Manager, East Setauket; and Paule Pachter, CEO, Long Island Cares. Photo courtesy of Amazon Fresh
Amazon Fresh presented a check in the amount of $10,000 to Long Island Cares/Island Harvest during the Oct. 24 grand opening/ribbon cutting. Pictured from left, Ginger Belesi, Office of Assembly Member Ed Flood; Omar Ventura, Amazon Fresh Store Manager, East Setauket; and Paule Pachter, CEO, Long Island Cares. Photo courtesy of Amazon Fresh
The Dash Cart at Amazon Fresh
Amazon Fresh
Amazon Fresh
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Amazon Fresh

By Heidi Sutton

The day has finally arrived. After remaining vacant for nearly two years, Amazon Fresh officially opened in East Setauket in the former Waldbaum’s location on Thursday, Oct. 24. The 42,900-square-foot store in Suffolk Plaza at 4054 Nesconset Highway is the first of its kind in Suffolk County. 

The community was invited to celebrate the momentous occasion at a ribbon cutting ceremony at 8 a.m. featuring music, samples, games, the chance to win $500 toward groceries, and a $5 off $25 coupon. The first 100 customers in line received an Amazon.com gift card and all customers received a free tote while supplies lasted. 

The East Setauket store is one of a handful of new Fresh locations that Amazon has launched in recent months after making some improvements to its business format. The biggest change was the discontinuation of the much touted Just Walk Out cashier-less checkout technology which has been replaced with computerized Dash Carts — smart shopping carts equipped with scanners that track items as customers place them inside —  along with Amazon One, a palm-based payment device, for a more seamless checkout experience.

Shoppers will find a wide selection of popular national and local brands along with Amazon’s private-label products, such as Aplenty, Fresh Brand and 365 by Whole Foods Market, which was acquired by Amazon in 2017. The store also offers prepared foods made fresh daily, as well as produce, meat, and seafood.

Amazon Prime members can save up to 50 percent off on eight to 15 grocery items that rotate each week, according to a company statement and can earn 5% back when they use their Prime Visa card.

The store also offers same day grocery delivery or free grocery pickup and serves as a drop-off location for Amazon return packages. All surplus food will be donated to Long Island Cares.

“We offer great prices on quality items every day at Amazon Fresh, ensuring grocery shopping is convenient and affordable for all our customers,” said Claire Peters, worldwide VP, Amazon Fresh in a statement. “Increasing our weekly deals across thousands of items and expanding the reach of Prime savings at Amazon Fresh is just one way that we’re continuing to invest in competitive pricing and savings for all of our customers — both in-store and online.”

Store hours will be from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. 

The success of the East Setauket store will be watched closely as the company continues to expand in Suffolk County.

Another Amazon Fresh at 3017 North Ocean Ave. in Farmingville was completed last year but remains empty.

“We remain committed to grocery, and will selectively open new Amazon Fresh stores as we see positive customer feedback on the new format,” read a statement from the Seattle-based company. For more information, call 1-800-250-0668.

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VALLEY GIRL IN THE HOUSE Moon Zappa will visit the Cinema Arts Centre to promote her new memoir on Oct. 27.
*Please note 2024 Halloween events on the North Shore are listed in a separate post.
Thursday Oct. 24

Witches Night Out

It’s time for a wicked night out! Village of Cold Spring Harbor presents its 15th Annual Witches Night Out from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy an evening of sales, spirits, raffles and more spooky fun along Main Street. Free to attend. All ages welcome. Witches should fly on the same broom to save room, limited parking. www.cshwitchesnightout.com

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts a Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Free. 631-655-7798

Walt Whitman Birthplace Tour

Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents The Mysterious Fate of Walt Whitman’s Brain tonight and again on Oct. 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. Learn about Walt’s autopsy during a candlelit tour of his birthplace. Discover how Walt’s fascination with science and the human brain intersected with macabre Victorian pseudoscience. Light seasonal refreshments will be served. *Not suitable for young children. Tickets are $25 per person. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Murder Mystery Night at T3

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents a Murder Mystery Night fundraiser at 7:30 p.m. Step into the world of ‘Panic At The Speakeasy,’ where anything can happen at a 1920s club run by a notorious mobster. Can you solve the mystery before the club gets raided? Enjoy an evening of interactive fun, filled with improvisation, comedy, and a bit of musical flair. Costumes are strongly encouraged, so come dressed in your best 1920s speakeasy attire and be part of the action—gather clues, ask questions, and maybe even find yourself as a suspect! Tickets are $100 per person and includes 1 drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Friday Oct. 25

Barbra Streisand Tribute

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents An Enchanted Evening with Barbra starring Sharon Owens at 8 p.m. Enjoy all of Streisand’s biggest hits, such as “The Way We Were,” “People,” “Evergreen,” and “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” along with popular songs from Streisand’s films, including “A Star is Born” and “Funny Girl.” Tickets are $65 per person. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages 16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door, cash only. 631-928-9100

Saturday Oct. 26

Cars and Coffee

South Huntington Public Library, 145 Pidgeon Hill Road, Huntington Station presents Cars & Coffee from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the Centurion Cruisers Car Club in the parking lot for a day of classic cars and trucks. Enjoy coffee and meet other car enthusiasts. Free. 

CSHL Walking Tour

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor will host a guided walking tour of the campus from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn about the historic and modern architecture, the Nobel legacy, and the advanced cancer, neuroscience, and plant research taking place at the lab. Fee is $7.18 per person. To register, visit www.cshl.edu. 516-367-8844

Elija Farm Fall Festival

Join Elija Farm, 43 Foxhurst Road, South Huntington for a Farm Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy hayrides, children’s games, pumpkin picking, spooky walk, farmers market, food, storytelling, dancing, live music, farm animals and a bounce house. Rain date is Oct. 27. Admission is $20 per person, children ages 2 and under are free. 631-423-2379

Cadillac Car Show

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will host a car show by the Cadillac-LaSalle Club, Long Island Region on the Great Lawn from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors pay only museum admission of $12 adults, $10 students and seniors, $8 children ages 2 to 12, which includes estate-grounds access.  www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

Fall Fest

Join the Suffolk County Police Department for a Fall Fest at the Holtsville Ecology Center,  249 Buckley Road, Holtsville from 1 to 5 p.m. Enjoy Trunk or Treat, games, face painting, soft play, DJ, food, Safety Town, meet adoptable dogs and visit the animals at the zoo. 631-451-5330

Malevo heads to the Staller Center

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes Malevo to the Main Stage at 8 p.m. Argentina’s answer to Stomp and Riverdance, this electrifying all-male dance troupe reimagines Malambo, a traditional Argentine folk dance, with a modern and transgressive approach, fusing it with flamenco and urban percussion, creating an extraordinary visual and sensory theatrical experience unlike any other. Tickets range from $48 to $71. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com. 

Long Island Comedy Festival

The largest comedy festival of its kind returns to its birthplace, Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. Featuring David Weiss, Andy Pitz, Richie Byrne and Chris Roach plus a surprise guest comedian. Tickets are $50. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Sunday Oct. 27

Mustang Car Show

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will host a car show by the Mustang and Shelby Car Club of Long Island on the Great Lawn from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors pay only museum admission of $12 adults, $10 students and seniors, $8 children ages 2 to 12, which includes estate-grounds access.   www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

Caumsett Stroll

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Lloyd Harbor hosts a Fall Seasonal Stroll from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  On this short 1.5 mile stroll, observe seasonal changes, and savor autumn’s colorful, leafy splendor. Dress for the possibility of long grass. Adults only. $4 per person. Call 631-423- 1770 to register.

An Afternoon with Moon Zappa

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington welcomes Moon Zappa at 2:30 p.m. The original Valley Girl will discuss her acclaimed new memoir, Earth to Moon. The afternoon also includes a screening of one of Moon’s favorite comedy classics while growing up “Zappa” in the 80’s, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, plus a special screening of a “Valley Girl” animated anniversary video, followed by a gala book-signing reception with live musical entertainment of the era. Tickets are $42 and includes a copy of the book, film screening, interview with Q&A To order, visit  cinemaartscentre.org. For more information, call 631-423-7611. 

Monday Oct. 28

Flu Shots & Health Screenings

A Catholic Health registered nurse will be at Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station to provide seasonal flu shots and screenings for blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, and glucose from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No insurance is required. Open to all 18+. Questions? Call 631-928-1212.

Science on Stage

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts Recital Hall will host the annual Science on Stage event at 4 p.m. Inspired by Stony Brook University climate research, the event will feature three one-act plays that explore climate politics, predictive modeling and adaptation strategies through interpersonal conflict and comedy. This year, the event has been expanded to include the debut of a composition by Margaret Schedel titled “Carnival of the Endangered Animals.” Free. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. Latecomers will not be admitted. 

Tuesday Oct. 29

NSJC Social Club Event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a discussion with Frank McCoy on the benefits of physical therapy for seniors in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

WMHO Walking Tours

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) presents a walking tour throughout Stony Brook Village, “Hidden Beneath the Floorboards,” today and Oct. 30 at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and Oct. 31 at 10:50 a.m.  Discover stories of piracy, the Long Island Witch Trials, the history behind the haunting at Country House Restaurant, what ghostly spirits and the occult have to do with the birth of the Suffrage Movement, and the tale of Stony Brook’s Star-Crossed Lovers who meet each year on Halloween. Tickets are priced at $15 per person. To register, call 631-751-2244. For additional information, visit wmho.org. 

The Everly Set in Concert

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a concert by The Everly Set at 8 p.m. Sean Altman and Jack Skuller celebrate The Everly Brothers, featuring “Bye Bye Love,” “Wake Up Little Susie,” “Cathy’s Clown,” “All I Have To Do Is Dream,” “When Will I Be Loved,” “Crying In The Rain,” and more hits and rarities in concert. Tickets are $45. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Wednesday Oct. 30

Walt Whitman Birthplace Tour

See Oct. 29 listing.

WMHO Walking Tours

See Oct. 29 listing.

Senior Halloween Dance – *This event has been postponed to November 15.

Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai hosts its annual Halloween Dance from 1 to 3 p.m. with music by DJ Louis DelPrete. Costumes are encouraged! This event is open to Town of Brookhaven residents age 60 and older. To register, please call 631-451-5312. 

Thursday Oct. 31

WMHO Walking Tours

See Oct. 29 listing.

Halloween Magic Show

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Haunted Encounters: A Halloween Magic Show with magicians Jim Vines and Mike Maione on the Second Stage at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. This spine-chilling event promises to bring local ghost stories to life like never before. Set against the backdrop of Halloween, when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest, this immersive show will transport guests into a realm of supernatural intrigue and spectral encounters. *Not suitable for young children. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Theater

‘She Kills Monsters’

Minstrel Players presents Qui Nguyen’s She Kills Monsters at Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport on Oct. 26 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 27 at 3 p.m. A comedic romp into the world of fantasy role-playing games, She Kills Monsters tells the story of Agnes Evans as she leaves her childhood home in Ohio following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, however, she stumbles into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was Tilly’s refuge. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 516-361-7232 or email [email protected]. 

‘Clue’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents the hilarious musical Clue from Sept. 12 to Oct. 27. Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, the farce-meets-murder mystery begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party where murder and blackmail are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Clue is the comedy whodunit that will leave you in stitches as they try to figure out…who did it, where, and with what! Tickets range from $85 to $95. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Night of the Living Dead’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Night of the Living Dead from Oct. 5 to 27. Fall out from a satellite probe shot to Venus returns to Earth carrying a mysterious radiation that transforms the unburied dead into flesh-eating zombies. Seven people trapped in an isolated farmhouse, held hostage by the ravenous ghouls, begin to turn on each other as the dead encroach. A gripping terror-filled monochromatic play that brings all the fright of the cult classic to life. *This production is recommended for audiences high school age and up. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors and $25 students. To order, visit smithtownpac.org.

‘A Christmas Carol’

“I will honor Christmas in my heart…” Celebrate the season with the 40th annual production of A Christmas Carol at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 9 to Dec. 28. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the meaning of Christmas — past, present, and future. Tickets are $25 through November; $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12 in December. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘9 to 5 The Musical’

Star Playhouse at Stage 74, 74 Hauppauge Road Commack presents 9 to 5 The Musical on Nov. 9 and 16 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 10 and 17 at 2 p.m.Tickets are $32 adults, $25 seniors, students and members. Call 631-462-9800, ext. 136 or visit www.starplayhouse.com to order.

‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’

Step into a world of pure imagination this holiday season as the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from Nov. 14 to Dec. 29. Join young Charlie Bucket and four other lucky Golden Ticket winners as they embark on an unforgettable journey through Willy Wonka’s magical candy factory. With beloved songs from the 1971 film such as “Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” “Oompa-Loompa Song,” and “Pure Imagination,” this production promises to be a treat for the entire family. For ticket information, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Annie Warbucks’

Community Playhouse of Northport presents Annie Warbucks at the Brosnan Theater at 158 Laurel Avenue, Northport on Nov. 15, 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 16 (sensory friendly), 17 and 24 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, visit www.communityplayhousenorthport.org. 631-683-8444

Film

‘It’s Basic’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its Fall 2024 season with a screening of It’s Basic at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. When 2020 presidential hopeful Andrew Yang proposed to give every American $1000 in monthly income, it helped bring the issue of Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) to national light. By then, several U.S. cities had already begun GBI pilot programs in which they provided $500 per month to a select group of people for one year. It’s Basic follows the progress of the program. Panel discussion to follow. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 students. www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Young Frankenstein’

It’s alive! Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen Young Frankenstein on Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m. in honor of its 50th anniversary. Part homage and part parody of Universal Pictures 1930s monster movies, Mel Brooks gives the old horror classic a riotous comic twist! Tickets are $16. www.cinemaartscentre.org

‘Ghostbusters’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire starring Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, and Bill Murray on Oct. 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. Open to all. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Class Reunion

— Ward Melville High School Class of 2014 will hold its 10 year reunion at The Waterview, 44 Fairway Drive, Port Jefferson  on Nov. 30 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are  $100 — plus ones allowed. Includes open bar, passed appetizers, and dinner. Please email [email protected] for the link to purchase tickets. 

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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From left, magicians Jim Vines and Mike Maione will be at Theatre Three on Halloween night.

By Melissa Arnold

Journalism is exciting for many reasons, but for me, getting to have new experiences tops the list. Last week, I had my mind read over Zoom. That’s a first!

Magicians Jim Vines and Michael Maione were eager to share some of their gifts with me at the end of my interview about their upcoming shows. 

Vines is an absolute believer in the supernatural, and he said that a spirit could carry information over the many miles between his home and mine.

To demonstrate, Vines scribbled a three-digit number on a mini chalkboard without showing me. He set down his chalk and smiled. “Well, I’m committed now. Open your heart, and ask the spirit to tell you what I’ve written here.”

I played along, but I was nervous about ruining the trick — there are 900 possible three-digit numbers, after all. The odds of guessing correctly were miniscule. I shrugged and said, “I don’t know about this, Jim, but my number is 781.”

He grinned and showed me what he’d written — 781. Stunned, I screamed. 

Maione shook his head. “That was creepy, Jim. I don’t want any spirits around here. Let’s send them away.”

He made a table appear out of thin air, lit a candle with a snap of his fingers, and then wrote the words “Spirit, go home!” on a piece of paper. He held the paper up to the flame, and the words vanished as the candle flickered out.

Spooky? Yes. Fun? Absolutely. 

On Halloween night, Vines and Maione will invite the daring into a 70-minute experience of magic, mystery and history with Haunted Encounters: A Halloween Experience at Theatre Three.

The show is the first of its kind at the Port Jefferson theater. Following the success of their kid-friendly “Silly Sorcery Showcase” over the summer, Director of Development Douglas Quattrock said they hoped to produce a magic show geared more toward adults.

Add in the intimate, close-up setting of their downstairs second stage, the building’s lengthy history and ongoing rumors of hauntings at the theater, and you have the recipe for the perfect Halloween outing.

“A lot of people that work with us here are really of the belief that there are a couple of ghosts that hang around at the theater, including Fred Griswold, who used to run the machine shop,” Quattrock explained. 

As he began to search for magicians to bring in, Mike Maione reached out in hopes of beginning a long-term partnership with Theatre Three.

Maione is both a skilled illusionist and producer of the Parlor of Mystery magic shows that were previously based in Lindenhurst. With Quattrock looking for magicians and Maione seeking a new venue for the Parlor, it was a win-win situation for everyone. They’re now planning to host magic shows several times a year. 

Vines and Maione have very different magical backgrounds, but they share the same earnestness and curiosity about their craft. There’s always something new to learn, they said, and they’re constantly experimenting with new ways to push boundaries and impress a crowd. They became friends about 10 years ago, with Vines making frequent appearances in Parlor of Mystery shows.

Vines became “completely enamored” with the art of illusion at 12 years old when a classmate made an object disappear. Young Jim was gobsmacked, and immediately dove into reading everything the school library offered on magic and the supernatural. He went on to win national competitions, performing on television, off-Broadway and around the world.

For Maione, magic came along in his 40s. His wife had a friend who always brought a little pocket trick with him whenever he would come over for dinner and would show Maione how it worked. After several dinners, Maione had a whole collection of magic tricks, and his wife suggested he do a show for his daughter and her friends when they were young. Maione now focuses on comedic magic and has performed throughout the northeastern U.S. and as a member of the prestigious Magic Circle in London. He’s also a well-known magic lecturer and Youtuber. 

Both men set performing aside for a time to focus on their families and careers, with Vines working in marketing and Maione as a hospital administrator.

“My wife thought the magic thing was just a phase,” Maione joked. “But once you get bit by the bug, it really stays with you.”

Haunted Encounters represents a departure from their usual material.

“We’re trying to bring together some of the spirits floating around Long Island. We’re going to have a good amount of audience participation, and some wonderful stories to tell. The theater is 150 years old and a lot of interesting, sometimes spooky things are said to have happened there,” Maione said.

Vines is hoping for a truly supernatural experience, and urges people to come to the show with an open mind. Anything can happen on Halloween, he said.

“The elements that we’re bringing into this experience are things we don’t do every day,” he added. “We’ll be experimenting with pendulum magic, a little bit of Tarot and all sorts of other fun surprises. Maybe some spirits will come to join us, too.”

Haunted Encounters: A Halloween Magic Experience will be held at Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson on Thursday, Oct. 31 at 6 p.m. and again 8 p.m. Please note, this show may be frightening for children and is not recommended for those under the age of 13. Parental guidance is encouraged. Tickets are $40. To order, visit www.theatrethree.com or call the Box Office at 631-928-9100. 

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Christopher Reeve played the cinematic hero Superman in four films. Photo courtesy of © Warner Bros./ DC Studios

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Born in 1952, Christopher Reeve graduated from Cornell before studying acting at the Juilliard School, appearing in a range of stage productions. His cinematic work encompassed nearly two dozen films, including Somewhere in Time (1980), Deathtrap (1982), and The Remains of the Day (1993). But he will be forever remembered as the legendary Man of Steel in Superman (1978) and its sequels Superman II (1980), Superman III (1983), and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987). 

In 1985, after learning to ride for the television version of Anna Karenina, Reeve became an avid equestrian. On May 27, 1995, his horse made a refusal (a failure to jump a fence which stops forward movement). Reeve fell and shattered his first and second vertebrae, resulting in a cervical spinal injury that resulted in paralysis from the neck down. 

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story is a well-crafted, riveting documentary chronicling Reeve’s life, emphasizing his career as the cinematic superhero, his accident, and its aftermath. Directors Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui (who co-wrote the script with Otto Burnham) created a loving, dimensional tribute to a beloved personality in a sensitive but unflinching account. 

In the film’s first ten minutes, Reeve is established as Superman and superstar and quickly shifts to the accident: “In an instant, everything changed.” Over one hundred and four well-paced minutes, the filmmakers interview his children from his relationship with British modeling executive Gae Exton—Matthew Reeve and Alexandra Reeve Givens—and his son from his marriage to actor-singer Dana Morosini—Will Reeve. Exton, Glenn Close, Susan Sarandon, Whoopi Goldberg, Jeff Daniels, and John Kerry are interviewed, sharing their working and personal relationships with Reeve. 

The film touches on Reeve’s difficult childhood with unsupportive parents who divorced when he was three and remarried. In archival footage, Reeve discusses his father’s perpetual disappointment in his choices. Reeve saw theatre as providing a “neutral place that felt like home.” Theatre offered security with a beginning, middle, and end. The filmmakers emphasize his friendship with Juilliard classmate Robin Williams as well as his early days as a stage actor. While appearing in an off-Broadway play, Reeve flew to London for a Superman audition at Pinewood Studios. (Fellow castmate William Hurt discouraged him from selling out.) Immediately cast, the milestone changed the entire course of his career.

The film alternates between tracing the Superman films with his life post-accident, smartly weaving and contrasting the two worlds. His personal life is respectfully but thoroughly explored, focusing on his time with Exton and the birth of their two children. Realizing that they were incompatible, they separated but shared custody. Over the next several years, Reeve led a more Hollywood lifestyle until meeting Morosini. After a short courtship, Reeve realized he was ready to settle down, and they married in 1992. Their idyllic life was devastated just three years later.

The days immediately following the accident segue into the years of challenges and soul-searching. He states, “I ruined my life and everyone else’s.” The highly active Reeve pondered his shift from intensely “no fail” and “never quit” to a more reflective worldview. His sense of isolation, his weeks on the ventilator, and his fear of not just death but if I live, “Now what?” are part of the many interviews documented with Reeve. His shift in his approach to parenting is intimate and insightful. 

Super/Man draws on hundreds of hours of footage of Reeve’s struggles. (One odd note is the use of clips from the 1998 remake of Rear Window; they seem strangely integrated as they are not indicated as fictional.) Reeve became an outspoken activist, raising awareness for others in similar situations. He and Morosini founded The Christopher Reeve Foundation (later The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation), whose mission is “dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by advancing innovative research and improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by paralysis.” Reeve became a high-profile advocate, beginning with his first public appearance at the 68th Annual Academy Awards.

Central is the committed family bond—all three children, Exton, and, especially, Morosini—supported Reeve, who required twenty-four-hour care. (At the time, the cost was $400,000 a year.) Reeve’s gradual return to film, directing In the Gloaming and occasional acting appearances are traced until his sudden death on October 10, 2004 of heart failure at the age of 52. The coda is Morosini’s cancer diagnosis and passing two years later. 

The film is raw, compelling, and heartbreaking. Reeve lost much but embraced a difficult future: he made his path about giving visibility to those in similar straits. Ultimately, Super/Man is an honest and eye-opening look at the person who once said, “I am not a hero. I never have been, and I never will be.” On the contrary, Reeve was a hero in the real sense of the word—a person who has “the strength to persevere in the face of overwhelming obstacles.” Super/Man celebrates this truth.

The documentary is now playing in local theaters.

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Ron Darling will this year's keynote speaker. Photo from PSEG Long Island

Energy efficiency workshops, products and programs will provide backdrop for Darling’s personal account as player, sports commentator, author and actor

New York Mets World Series champion and recently inducted College Baseball Hall of Fame honoree, Ron Darling, will deliver the keynote address at PSEG Long Island’s Energize Long Island conference on Thursday, Nov. 7 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The all-day event at the Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville will feature more than a dozen educational workshops to help attendees reduce their carbon footprint, maximize efficient energy usage and cultivate renewable energy resources. Darling’s inclusion in the program will delight baseball fans and sports enthusiasts in attendance.

“We are thrilled to have Ron Darling as our keynote speaker for the Energize Long Island conference this year as his former team makes a playoff run,” said Michael Voltz, director of Energy Efficiency and Renewables for PSEG Long Island. “I am certain attendees will enjoy hearing about his amazing career as a major league ball player, actor, author and award-winning sports commentator – even as he’s currently calling the Yankees playoff games. We’re glad to provide this value-added opportunity for our attendees. This will be the ninth year we’re providing this venue to educate people on saving money and protecting the planet through energy efficiency measures.”

Energize Long Island is geared for business owners, property managers and developers, architects, engineers, contractors, consultants and consumers interested in implementing cost-effective, proven and sustainable energy efficiency solutions. Led by industry experts, the agenda includes discussions on a wide variety of topics and best practices to benefit business owners and builders, the local economy and environment. The more than 500 expected attendees will learn about financial incentive programs, new technologies and programs that lead to reduced energy usage. Along with Ron Darling as the keynote speaker, attendees will also have the opportunity to see and learn about many products and new technologies that will be on display at a vendor showcase throughout the day.

Registration for the Energize Long Island conference is free for PSEG Long Island customers, and only $50 for all other attendees. Sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities are available. For additional information please visit www.energizelongisland.com.

 

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A STEP BACK IN TIME Take part in a rare tour of the historic Brewster House in Setauket on Oct. 19 as part of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s ‘Fall for All ‘fundraiser.
Thursday Oct. 17

Ghastly Ghosts in the Garden

Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook presents Ghastly Ghosts in Garden today, Oct. 18 and Oct. 19 from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m. Join them, if you dare, for a frightfully good time in their Inside/Out Garden. This event includes audiovisual lighting effects, low visibility, and fog. You should not enter if you are easily frightened or sensitive to loud noise or crowds. Free. 631-588-5024

History of PJS, Terryville Lecture

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station presents ‘What’s In a Name? History of Port Jefferson Station and Terryville” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Join Jack Smith to explore 150 years of local history in the areas of Cumsewogue, Terryville, Echo, and Port Jefferson Station with photos, maps, and more. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Friday Oct. 18

Ghastly Ghosts in the Garden

See Oct.17 listing.

Harbor Haunts Walking Tour

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor for a Harbor Haunts Walking Tour today and Oct. 19 at 4:30 p.m. 

Explore Cold Spring Harbor’s ghostly side with fascinating tales of mishaps and historic hauntings on Main Street. Recommended for adults and kids ages 8+. $15 per person. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Spooky Lantern Tour

Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society, 75 North Country Road, Miller Place presents a Spooky Lantern Tour, a not too scary walking tour featuring the haunted history of Miller Place today, Oct. 19, 25 and 26 at 5:30 p.m., 6:15 p.m. and 7 p.m. $20 per person. Advance registration required at www.mpmshistoricalsociety.org.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series with an Art Talk with New York photographer, Mike McLaughlin at 6:30 p.m. McLaughlin will enlighten guests the evolution of his art and photographic process from North Fork Landscapes and Manhattan City Scapes to his Architectural Extraction and East End Extraction series. Light snacks and refreshments will be served. Free. No reservations required. 631-751-7707

Setauket Art Reception

Mary Jane van Zeijts’ Studio 268, at 268 Main St., Setauket invites the community to an opening reception for its Wonderful Wednesday Night Women of Studio 268 Art Show at 7 p.m. The exhibit features the art of women artists in a range of mediums including oil, collage, watercolor, pastels and photography. Artwork will be available for purchase and one will be raffled off with proceeds to be donated to the Three Village School District Food Pantry. Refreshments will be served. The show will run through Nov. 9. Viewing hours are Saturdays noon to 3 p.m. or by appointment. 631-220-4529.

Baroque Concert at the LIM

Join the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook as they celebrate 25 years of WSHU’s Sunday Baroque series with a concert featuring The Sylvan Trio, an ensemble comprised of program host and flutist Suzanne Bona, cellist Josh Aerie, and pianist Greg Kostraba in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 at www.longislandmuseum.org.

Haunted Hollow Fundraiser

Baiting Hollow Scout Camp, 1774 Sound Ave., Calverton will host a Haunted Trail and Haunted House tonight, Oct. 19, 25 and 26 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Prepare yourself for a night filled with spine-tingling frights and eerie sights! Admission is $20 per person at www.sccbsa.org/hollowhaunted

Saturday Oct. 19

Ghastly Ghosts in the Garden

See Oct.17 listing.

Harbor Haunts Walking Tour

See Oct.18 listing.

Spooky Lantern Tour

See Oct.18 listing.

Haunted Hollow Fundraiser

See Oct.18 listing.

Outdoor Country Auction 

Going once, going twice, sold! The Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson will hold its 36th annual outdoor Country Auction on the grounds of the Mather House Museum, 115 Prospect St., Port Jefferson at 9:30 a.m. with a preview at 9 a.m. Many unique items. Free parking at school parking lot on High Street. Lunch available for purchase. Rain or shine. 631-473-2665, www.portjeffhistorical.org

Yard Sale Fundraiser

Wading River Historical Society will hold  their annual Yard Sale on the lawn of the History House, 300 North Country Road, Wading River by the Duck Ponds from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lots of treasures! Rain date is Oct. 20. 631-929-4082

Baiting Holloween Fall Festival

Baiting Hollow Scout Camp, 1774 Sound Ave., Calverton presents a Baiting Holloween Fall Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy hay rides, trunk-or-treat, pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, crafts, bounce house and more. Tickets are $8 adults, $15 children ages 5 to 15, ages 4 and under free. Rain date is Oct. 26. www.sccbsa.org/holloween

‘Fall for All’ house tour fundraiser

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) will host house tours of the historic Brewster House, 25 Brewster Lane, Setauket from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Step back in time at the Brewster House tavern and inn, where guests will engage with historic characters in an immersive, family-friendly experience. Enjoy colonial crafts, activities, and entertaining skits, alongside guided tours by knowledgeable docents. Tickets are $12 adults, $5 children. To register, call WMHO at 631-751-2244.

Fall Harvest Festival

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Main Street, Huntington invites the community to its annual Fall Harvest Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring holiday boutiques, silent auction, baked goods, raffle baskets, white elephant, antiques and fabulous finds, casual and professional thrift shop, handcrafted items. The festival will be followed by a free gospel concert at 4 p.m. 631-427-1752, stjohnshuntington.org

Trunk or Treat at the Pool

Middle Country Youth Civic and Brookhaven Town Councilman Neil Manzella presents the 3rd annual Trunk or Treat at the Centereach Pool parking lot, 286 Hawkins Road, Centereach from 10 a.m. to noon. Enjoy trick or treating at the decorated cars and enjoy fun games and activities. Free. Rain date is Oct. 20. 631-451-6647

Port Jefferson Harvest Fest 

The Village of Port Jefferson hosts its annual Harvest Fest throughout the village today and Oct. 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with live music, country line dancing, pirate scavenger hunt, tractor-pull hayrides, children’s activities, costumed dog parade on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. on East Main Street, scarecrow walk, pumpkin patch, chowder crawl on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (fee) and much more. 631-473-4724, portjeff.com

Porsche Car Show

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will host a car show by Metro NY Porsche Club of America on the Great Lawn from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m Rain date is Oct. 20. Visitors pay only museum admission of $10 adults, $9 students and seniors, $7 children 12 and under, which includes estate-grounds access.  www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

Superheroes of the Sky

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents Superheroes of the Sky from 11 a.m. to noon. Take a walking tour with Jim while he feeds the Center’s Birds of Prey and tells you about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild. You’ll be seeing and learning about a Bald Eagle, Turkey Vultures, owls, hawks and many more. $10 adults, $5 children under the age of 12. www.sweetbriarnc.org

Homemakers Special Showcase

You’re invited! Suffolk County Homemaker’s Council will present a Special Showcase at the Coram Firehouse, Station #1, 303 Middle Country Road, Coram from noon to 4 p.m. with craft and home demonstrations, raffle baskets, free giveaways, a food truck, and voting for an up-cycled craft project. All proceeds benefit Blessings in a Backpack and scholarship fund. 631-302-5309

Halloween Party and Trunk or Treat

Join St. Gerard Majella, 300 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for an All Saints/Halloween Party and Trunk or Treat in the Parish Hall and parking lot from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy crafts, cupcake decorating, games, wrap the mummy contest, trunk or treat and more. Admission is a canned good or food pantry donation. Held rain or shine. 631-473-2900

Black Poetry Day Celebration

Preservation Long Island and the Town of Huntington African American Historic Designation Council have partnered to celebrate Black Poetry Day and the 313th Birthday of Long Island writer Jupiter Hammon, America’s first published Black poet. The free event will take place at Joseph Lloyd Manor, 1 Lloyd Lane, Lloyd Harbor at 2 p.m. and will include tours of the historic house, a poetry reading by author David Mills and refreshments in the garden overlooking Lloyd Harbor. To reserve free tickets, visit www.preservationlongisland.org.

Haunted Hayrides

They’re baaaaack! Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will offer Haunted Hayrides tonight and Oct. 20 starting at 6 p.m. Get ready for a thrilling tractor ride through the haunted woods where friendly frights and magical moments await! This adventure is designed to be just spooky enough to send shivers down your spine! *The first hour of each night will be kid friendly hayrides. Tickets are $12 per person. To register, visit www.bennersfarm.com. 631-689-8172

Godfathers of Comedy Night

In partnership with Governors Comedy Club, the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents a Godfathers of Comedy Italian Comedy Night at 8 p.m. Line-up includes Mike Vecchione, Vinny D’Agostino, Debbie D’Amore and Pork Chopz as emcee. Tickets are $40 per person at www.smithtownpac.org. 

Sunday Oct. 20

Port Jefferson Harvest Fest

See Oct. 19 listing.

Haunted Hayrides

See Oct. 19 listing.

Antique Show & Flea Market

Moose Lodge, 37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai will host an indoor/outdoor Antique Show & Flea Market from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Featuring over 60 vendors offering antique signs, toys, advertising, ephemera, jewelry, militaria, sports, collectables, and tons of other treasures.  Sponsored by Greenhouse Antiques in Saint James. 631-434-5369

Car Show and Swap Meet

Flowerfield Fairgrounds, Route 25A, St. James hosts a Fall Harvest Car Show and Swap Meet by Long Island Cars from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Street rods, classics, muscle cars, antiques, exotics, imports and collectible cars on display. Vendors selling parts and accessories, plus a variety of cars for sale by owners. Admission is $10, under 12 years free. Rain date is Oct 27. 631-567-5898, www.longislandcars.com

Dog Days at the Farm

Calling all dog lovers! Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Road, Yaphank hosts Dog Days at the Farm from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet dog rescues, try out a variety of dog sports (agility, rally, scentwork, etc), learn about therapy dogs, canine good citizen, trick and farm dog certifications, play games, pick a pumpkin, costume contest, take a wagon ride and do barks and crafts. Dogs must be up to date on their rabies vaccination (proof required at entrance) and leashed. Admission is $15 per dog, $5 per person. 631-852-4600

Huntington Apple Festival

The annual Apple Festival is back on the grounds of the Dr. Daniel Kissam House, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from noon to 4 p.m., courtesy of the Huntington Historical Society. Enjoy traditional games, seasonal crafts, live music, fall foods, house tours and historical demonstrations by costumed interpreters. The Museum Shop will also be open. Free admission. 631-427-7045

Fall Muster at the Arsenal

The Huntington Militia will present a Fall Muster at the Huntington Arsenal, 425 Park Avenue, Huntington during the Huntington Apple Festival from noon to 4 p.m. See history come to life as the militia recreates a typical 1775 militia muster at the Arsenal and Village Green. See musket and cannon firings, 18th century crafts, trades, music and cooking. Free. 631-223-8017

Halloween Hayride 

Northport Chamber of Commerce presents the annual Halloween Hayride in Northport Village Park from noon to 4 p.m. with hayrides, pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, live music, petting zoo, costume contest & refreshments. Fun for the whole family! Rain date is Oct. 27. 631-754-3905

The Dance Mechanics in Concert

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station presents The Dance Mechanics in concert from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Enjoy nothing but “Good Times” with this high energy band that will have you on your feet and singing along to your favorite dance, funk and R&B hits. Open to all. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

LITMA Contradance

The Long Island Traditional Music Association will hold a Contradance at the Smithtown Historical Society’s Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown at 2 p.m. with basic instruction at 1:45 p.m. Jim Gregory will Call and music will be by the Wild Thistle Band. Admission is $15 adults, $10 members, $7.50 students, children under 16 free with paid adult. 631-369-7854

KaiChen Cheng in Concert

Le Petit Salon de Musique, located at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket kicks off its 2024-2025 season with a flute concert by KaiChen Cheng at 2 p.m. Cheng is an active soloist, chamber musician, and passionate educator and the Outreach Program Artist at the Staller Center of Arts and Chamber Music Instructor of the Community Chamber Music Program at Stony Brook University. Tickets are Tickets in advance and at the door are $20 adults, $15 students, $10 for ages 12 yrs old and under. 631-751-0297

Ridotto Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington presents a Ridotto concert featuring pianist Saskia Giorgini in concert at 4 p.m. Program includes Haydn Sonata 37, Liszt Benediction and Consolations, Debussy “Images” and works by Rachmaninov. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. For reservations, call 631-385-0373. www.ridotto.org

Owl Prowl at Sweetbriar

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents an Owl Prowl from 6 to 8 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the Center’s resident owls and then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and call some owls. Meet behind the main house and check in. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight just in case. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $20 per person. Register at www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Monday Oct. 21

Living World Lecture

The Ecology and Evolution Department at Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook continues its Living World lecture series with “Should the Mill Pond Be Rebuilt? Reconnecting Severed Threads” with guest speaker John F. Turner, Division of Land Management for the Town of Brookhaven, in the Javits Lecture Center, Room 111 on the West Campus on Monday, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. The event is free. For more information, call 631-632-8600.

TVHS Lecture

Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket at 7 p.m. Alyssa Guitierrez will discuss her book, Buried Long Island: History Set In Stone, a photographic collection that showcases the full scope of historical Long Island funeral practices during the colonial and early American period, from elaborately carved headstones imported and installed before the United States gained independence, to the modest fieldstone markers of individuals whose names are lost. Free. Pre-registration encouraged at www.tvhs.org.

Tuesday Oct. 22

NSJC Social Club Event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a ballroom dance instruction with Norma Granofsky in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Come learn the basic steps to your favorite dances. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Wednesday Oct. 23

Walking Tour/Pub Crawl

Huntington Historical Society hosts a Walking Tour & Pub Crawl from 6 to 9 p.m. Town of Huntington Historian, Robert C. Hughes will guide you through the notable buildings and events in the history of Huntington Village. Along the way participants will stop at local establishments, (with a great history or in a historic building) to enjoy some refreshments before continuing the tour. Tour Begins at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main St., Huntington. $25 per person, drinks not included. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Thursday Oct. 24

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts a Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Free. 631-655-7798

Murder Mystery Night at T3

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents a Murder Mystery Night fundraiser at 7:30 p.m. Step into the world of ‘Panic At The Speakeasy,’ where anything can happen at a 1920s club run by a notorious mobster. Can you solve the mystery before the club gets raided? Enjoy an evening of interactive fun, filled with improvisation, comedy, and a bit of musical flair. Costumes are strongly encouraged, so come dressed in your best 1920s speakeasy attire and be part of the action—gather clues, ask questions, and maybe even find yourself as a suspect! Tickets are $100 per person and includes 1 drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Theater

‘Matilda The Musical’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off its 54th season with Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical from Sept. 14 to Oct. 20. Matilda is a courageous little girl with astonishing wit, a vivid imagination, and psychokinetic powers. Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, the unique and unforgettable show is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl on an extraordinary journey! Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12, $25 Wednesday matinees. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit  www.theatrethree.com.

‘She Kills Monsters’

Minstrel Players presents Qui Nguyen’s She Kills Monsters at Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport on Oct. 19 and 26 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 20 and 27 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 516-361-7232

‘Clue’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents the hilarious musical Clue from Sept. 12 to Oct. 27. Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, the farce-meets-murder mystery begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party where murder and blackmail are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Clue is the comedy whodunit that will leave you in stitches as they try to figure out…who did it, where, and with what! Tickets range from $85 to $95. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Night of the Living Dead’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Night of the Living Dead from Oct. 5 to 27. Fall out from a satellite probe shot to Venus returns to Earth carrying a mysterious radiation that transforms the unburied dead into flesh-eating zombies. Seven people trapped in an isolated farmhouse, held hostage by the ravenous ghouls, begin to turn on each other as the dead encroach. A gripping terror-filled monochromatic play that brings all the fright of the cult classic to life. *This production is recommended for audiences high school age and up. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors and $25 students. To order, visit smithtownpac.org.

‘Mostly True Things’

(mostly) TRUE THINGS, a game wrapped in a storytelling show that features true stories and a game celebrates 10 years of performances at The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St., Port Jefferson on Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. with stories on the themes Anniversary or 10! Featured performers include Jessica Piscatelli Robinson, Adam Grundfest, Sean Brown, Rita Rigano and Jude Treder-Wolff. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only).

Film

‘Checkpoint Zoo’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its Fall 2024 season with a screening of Checkpoint Zoo at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. In the early days of the Ukraine-Russian war, the Feldman Ecopark, a beloved animal refuge in Ukraine’s second largest city, found itself caught in the crossfire. Against all odds, a courageous team of zookeepers and volunteers risked their lives to embark on a seemingly impossible mission: bringing these innocent creatures to safety. Followed by a panel discussion. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 students. www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com. 

‘The Panzi Invasion’

The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook will present a screening of The Panzi Invasion on Oct. 20 at 2 p.m. The documentary film examines the history of the annual Independence Day Invasion of the Fire Island Pines, featuring interviews with several participants from the 1976 invasion. The screening will be followed by a talk and Q&A with Sargent. Free with admission to the museum. 631-751-0066.

‘It’s Basic’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its Fall 2024 season with a screening of It’s Basic at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. When 2020 presidential hopeful Andrew Yang proposed to give every American $1000 in monthly income, it helped bring the issue of Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) to national light. By then, several U.S. cities had already begun GBI pilot programs in which they provided $500 per month to a select group of people for one year. It’s Basic follows the progress of the program. Panel discussion to follow. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 students. www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Class Reunion

— Ward Melville High School Class of 2014 will hold its 10 year reunion at The Waterview, 44 Fairway Drive, Port Jefferson  on Nov. 30 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are  $100 — plus ones allowed. Includes open bar, passed appetizers, and dinner. Please email [email protected] for the link to purchase tickets.

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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Photo from Middle Country Chamber of Commerce
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.

 

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Time for witches, ghosts and toast!
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The cast of 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The Petersons. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.
A scene from 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of 'A Kooky Spooky Halloween.' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions Inc.

By Heidi Sutton

It’s kooky and it’s spooky and it’s hauntingly good. Now in it’s 7th year, A Kooky Spooky Halloween returns to Theatre Three in Port Jefferson to celebrate one of the most popular holidays of the year. 

Written by Jeffrey Sanzel and Steve McCoy, the adorable musical tells the story of Abner the Ghost (Steven Uihlein) who has just graduated from Haunting High School and is assigned to be a spooksperson at Ma Aberdeen’s Boarding House, (known for being the most haunted house in Harrison Corner USA and for having the best toast!) as its last ghost, Baron Von Yost, has recently retired. Abner is given a diploma and a medallion of invisibility and is sent on his way with two rules: never haunt before sunset and never, ever lose your medallion.

But Abner has a shocker of a secret — he’s afraid of the dark! When he confides in his best friend Lavinda the Witch (Cassidy Rose O’Brien) she gifts him a nightlight and promises to help him get settled in. With Lavinda’s help, what could possibly go wrong?

It’s Halloween and Abner arrives at the boarding house  just as Ma Aberdeen (Ginger Dalton) and her boarders the Petersons — Paul the periodontist (Liam Marsigliano), Penelope the p.r. professional (Katy Snair) and their daughter Pip (Sarita Alvarado) — and Kit Garret (Julia Albino), a girl who “just came from a small town to a big city with a suitcase in her hand and hope in her heart,” are stuffing goodie bags for trick-or-treaters in the kitchen.

In one of the funniest scenes in the show, Abner tries out a series of spells, making the group stuff the bags in double time, dance, do jumping jacks, sing, spin like a top, quack like a duck and stick to each other. Just as he is about to undo the last spell, fellow graduate ghost with a grudge Dora Pike (Josie McSwane) appears, steals his medallion of invisibility and nightlight and heads to the bottom of Black Ridge Gulch, the deepest, darkest gorge in the entire world (where it’s really, really dark). Now visible, Abner must convince the strangers who are still stuck to each other help him get his medallion back or it will “all fade to black.”

Director Colleen Britt has assembled a terrific cast to tell this hilarious story filled with singing and dancing, action and adventure and tons of Halloween jokes. Ginger Dalton as Ma who makes the toast is especially wonderful. “What kind of toast do you serve? Rye, whole wheat, sourdough, french?” she’s asked. “White. No butter, no jelly … and no jam!” she snaps. 

This year’s production has amped up the spookiness with floating ghosts, use of the trap door and more special effects, but don’t worry— it is not scary. The show also makes use of the screens on each end of the stage from the set of ‘Matilda The Musical’ to project images. A nice touch.

Costumes by Jason Allyn in shades of black, orange, purple and sparkly white for the ghosts are the icing on the haunted house cake. Don’t miss this one. You and your kids will have a spooktacular good time. Ghostly pumpkin souveniers will be sold during intermission and costumes are encouraged. Meet the cast in the lobby after the show for photos. 

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents A Kooky Spooky Halloween through Oct. 19. Children’s theater continues with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28 and Hansel and Gretel from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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From left, Harlan Fischer, Kristen Domiano, Stephanie Gress, and Michael Brescia. Photo courtesy of Branch Financial Services, Inc.

Branch Financial Services, Inc. of Setauket is celebrating 50 years of serving clients this month. 

President Harlan J. Fischer founded Branch Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment advisor, on Oct. 1, 1974. According to a press release from the financial business, Fischer “is as committed to its success today as he was in those early days of business.”

“As its founder and principal, the mission he set forth for Branch Financial Services, Inc. 50 years ago was simple—to help clients achieve their personal and financial goals,” read the release. “Beyond this mission, Harlan and his staff are committed to providing a level of service that is rare to find today. They are so serious about this that they trademarked ‘You Can’t Hug an 800 Number’ ™ as their motto.”

Fischer said he takes tremendous pride in Branch Financial Services, Inc., its fiduciary status and independence, which he said carries through to every aspect of the business. The office, located at 21 Bennetts Road, is known for looking more like an art gallery full of contemporary sculptures and paintings.

Before moving the office to Setauket in 2020, Branch Financial Services, Inc. was located in Hauppauge for 21 years and Smithtown for 25 years. The financial business has been a member of the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce since 1995 and the Three Village Chamber of Commerce since 2020.

Several clients have been with Fischer for most of his 50-year career, and their children and extended families have become clients in many cases as well.

Mia and Jerry Vogt, of Massapequa, have traveled to Suffolk County for more than 15 years to consult with Fischer.

“Harlan’s approach to financial planning seamlessly blends traditional values with the demands of a fast-paced modern world,” Mia Vogt said. “His commitment to time-honored principles—such as integrity, long-term vision and personal responsibility—provides a solid foundation for navigating today’s complex financial landscape.”

According to the press release, the “team understands the importance of a personal touch in investment. In an era dominated by impersonal, automated services, the firm’s dedication to understanding each client’s unique needs offers a deeply personalized experience. For Harlan and his colleagues, it’s not just about guiding clients through financial decisions, but also about fostering a trusting relationship.”

Fischer’s colleagues currently include Michael Brescia, Kristen Domiano and Stephanie Gress, who have worked beside him and have known him for many years. According to the press release, “He makes it clear to them that he values and appreciates them every day.”

Brescia provides financial and legal services to his Branch Financial Services, Inc. clients, while Gress is a service associate, and Domiano supervises the office administration, compliance and back office for the firm.

While 50 years may sound like a long time to some, Fischer said, “I feel like I’m just getting warmed up.”

Over the years Fischer has served on many boards for professional and arts organizations. He and his wife Olivia have funded several historic restoration projects in the Three Village area, and they sponsor events and public programming. Currently, Fischer serves as Chairman of the Village of Head of the Harbor Planning Board. 

In 2024 alone, he was named a Best in State Wealth Advisor by Forbes and received the Corporate Citzenship Award by the Long Island Business News.

As he reflects on his years in business, the financial advisor is deeply grateful to Bill Weidner, his mentor from early in his career, and the clients of Branch Financial Services, Inc.

“My career journey has been enriched by the wonderful people I have worked with and for through the decades,” Fischer said. “I eagerly look forward to working with everyone for years to come.”

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