Tags Posts tagged with "Councilwoman Susan A. Berland"

Councilwoman Susan A. Berland

Left, Dr. W. Phelps meets Ted Taranowicz and his dog Rocco at the free clinic thanks to Paws of War.

Suffolk County Legislator Susan Berland (D-Dix Hills) coordinated free veterinarian care for veterans’ pets with Paws of War, a nonprofit organization in Nesconset that supports both ends of the leash through a variety of animal programs for veterans. The three-hour event was held April 27 in a mobile clinic parked behind the legislator’s Commack office where more than 25 animals received care — including a blind poodle named Ebony. 

“As the chairwoman of the Legislature’s Veterans Committee, I have seen first-hand the amazing work Paws of War does for our veterans, which is why I was proud to host their clinic at my district office,” Berland said. “It is well known that having an animal can be a vital tool in helping veterans combat the emotional effects of war.”

Legislator Susan Berland with Central Islip veteran Raymond Bradley and his wife holding Ebony, after Suffolk County declares May Military Appreciation Month. Photo from Berland’s office

Ted Taranowicz, a Navy veteran from the Vietnam era, along with his wife of 39 years Elizabeth, brought their black lab Rocco to the clinic. Taranowicz, a Port Jefferson resident, was diagnosed with throat cancer in January and is still recovering from the last of his 35 radiation and five chemotherapy treatments. He learned about the Vets2Vets program through the local VA hospital and was grateful for the service. He was one of 15 Suffolk County veterans helped by the program. 

Like the other animals seen, Rocco and Ebony received basic veterinary care that included a wellness check, grooming, vaccinations, microchipping, flea/tick protection and pet supplies. 

Dori Scofield, co-founder of the Paws of War, said the nonprofit runs entirely on donations.  

“We were able to do this purely because of people’s generosity,” Scofield said. She added that Petco recently donated $15,000 to help with the mobile clinic. The charity, though, is mostly funded by small donors and local groups that raise money for its cause. 

“The new Vets2Vets program is providing an amazing service for our veterans who may be unable to provide the necessary care for their animal,” Berland said. “I want to thank Paws of War for everything they do to support our veterans, they are truly an asset to our county.” 

For more information about Paws of War, visit its website at www.pawsofwar.org. 

Councilwoman Susan A. Berland with Joel Grey at the Cinema Arts Centre. Photo by Alex Wolff, Concierge Photography
Joel Grey with two specialty cakes at a reception after the event. Photo by Alex Wolff, Concierge Photography

Oscar, Tony and Golden Globe winner Joel Grey made a special appearance at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington on Feb. 23 for a rare big-screen presentation of Bob Fosse’s 1973 “Cabaret,” which stars Grey as Emcee and Liza Minelli as Sally Bowles, followed by an audience Q-and-A moderated by Jud Newborn.

Grey also signed copies of his revealing memoir “Master of Ceremonies” which recounts his fascinating and complex behind-the-stage life story, acting career, family and love life. Councilwoman Susan A. Berland (D) presented a Town of Huntington Proclamation to Grey after the sold-out event. “It was an honor to present a proclamation to Joel Grey for his career as one of the most renowned American entertainers,” said the councilwoman.

Above, Alan Cumming signs one of nearly 300 books during the evening’s reception as Dr. Jud Newborn looks on.
Above, Alan Cumming, left, and  host Jud Newborn share a laugh during the slideshow and interview program.Photo by Jessica and Andy Attard, FlashBack Photography
Above, Alan Cumming, left, and host Jud Newborn share a laugh during the slideshow and interview program. Photo by Jessica and Andy Attard, FlashBack Photography

Huntington’s Cinema Arts Centre hosted an exclusive, sold-out event, An Evening with Alan Cumming, on Thursday, Sept. 15. Curator/interviewer Jud Newborn presented a kaleidoscopic slideshow that covered all aspects of Cumming’s diverse career with film clips and photos, some from Cumming’s brand new book of his own 45 photoessays, “You Gotta Get Bigger Dreams.” The program was followed by a gala reception and book signing, with live jazz by guitarist Mike Soloway of Huntington.

Alan Cumming and Councilwoman Susan Berland at last Wednesday’s event.Photo by Jessica and Andy Attard, FlashBack Photography
Alan Cumming and Councilwoman Susan Berland at last Wednesday’s event. Photo by Jessica and Andy Attard, FlashBack Photography

Huntington Town Councilwoman Susan A. Berland (D) surprised the actor, author and activist with a special town proclamation lauding his many career achievements.

The event sold out within 24 hours of being announced, with each ticket holder received a copy of Cumming’s new book. The Scottish actor, renowned for his remarkably eclectic career, is famed for his Emmy-nominated role as Eli Gold in the hit TV series, “The Good Wife,” for his Tony-winning Broadway performance in the musical “Cabaret,” for numerous films by leading directors and for his earlier New York Times Number 1 best-selling memoir, ‘Not My Father’s Son.”