CLOSE
Tags Posts tagged with "Heidi Sutton"

Heidi Sutton

by -
0 3604
Photo courtesy of Councilman Neil Manzella's Facebok

By Heidi Sutton

2025 is starting out as a year of firsts. The first Wegmans on Long Island officially opened in Lake Grove on Feb. 26. Now the first Sprouts Farmers Market in New York Slate is heading to Centereach. The supermarket will occupy the former L.A. Fitness at 1934 Middle Country Road which closed its doors on Jan. 28. The shopping center also houses a Harbor Freight and an AutoZone.

Town of Brookhaven Councilman Neil Manzella made the announcement on Facebook on Feb. 22. 

“Through many discussions with the property owner, and their representatives, I am excited to finally announce that a Sprouts Farmers Market will be joining our community. Though personally unfamiliar with Sprouts, those who are have described it as a blend between Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. As with any business, the community will ultimately decide if it is a success or failure, but I, for one, am thrilled to see a new business come to the area,” he said.

Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, the supermarket chain operates more than 415 stores in 23 states and has been expanding at a rapid pace. “… We are eager to expand into more communities. We are dedicated to expanding our banner with over 110 approved new stores in the pipeline over the next few years,” said CEO Jack Sinclair in a recent statement.

Specializing in natural, organic and gluten-free foods, the grocer touts a farmers market experience with an open layout featuring fresh produce at the center of the store along with meat, seafood, dairy, vitamins and wellness items. 

In addition to Amazon Fresh which opened in East Setauket last October and Wegmans which opened in Lake Grove on Feb. 26, Sprouts will be joining several other supermarkets planned for the area including an Aldi in the former King Kullen on Ronkonkoma Avenue in Ronkonkoma, an Aldi in the former Michael’s Crafts in Medford on Route 112, and a Trader Joe’s on Route 25A in Miller Place next to Walgreens.  Plans for an Amazon Fresh in Farmingville have been scrapped.

While there is no official opening date, Councilman Manzella said that a representative from Sprouts told him they expect to open in the fall of this year. Comments on the councilman’s Facebook page were mostly positive, with many familiar with the supermarket stating that it will be “a fantastic addition to the community.”

by -
0 1914
Wegmans in Lake Grove is the first to open on Long Island. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

The wait is finally over. Wegmans Food Markets has announced that it will celebrate the grand opening of its Lake Grove store on Wednesday, Feb. 26 with a ribbon cutting set for 9 a.m. Located at 3270 Middle Country Road in the DSW Plaza, the 101,000 square-foot supermarket will be Wegmans’ first on Long Island. 

“We have been actively hiring and training new employees and are excited to open our doors on Feb. 26 to serve the Lake Grove community,” said store manager Dawn Cooper in a press release. 

Located in the former Fairway Market  space, the new store will employ more than 500 people in full- and part-time positions and will feature restaurant-style foods at its Market Café including sushi, pizza, chef-made salads, and sandwiches; along with a hot self-serve bar; a large produce department; and a wide variety of seafood, meat, bakery, deli, and cheese options. 

There will be an equal number of full-service and self-checkout registers and plenty of parking. Casanova the Rooster,  the company’s mascot, will greet customers at the top of every hour and there is a designated seating area to enjoy eat-in meals.

Before even opening, the Lake Grove leadership team has been focused on building relationships and getting to know and support the local community. 

Over the summer, fall, and holiday season, the team participated in festivals, volunteered at local food pantries, and sponsored the annual Pictures with Santa display at the Smith Haven Mall. 

They also formed a partnership with Long Island Cares and Island Harvest to improve food security for local families through their annual Check Out Hunger scanning and by providing donations three days a week to the food banks through their perishable pick-up program. 

“With Wegmans’ help, we will be better able to support those on Long Island experiencing hunger, including families, children, seniors, veterans, unhoused individuals, and others who need assistance,” said Bob LaBarbara of Long Island Cares.

To date, the store team has donated nearly $30,000 to over two dozen local non-profit organizations and events, including United Way of Long Island, Village of Lake Grove for the Summer and Harvest Festivals, Ronkonkoma Fire Department, Suffolk Community College Foundation, Sachem Teen Center, and United Veterans Beacon House.

“It is such a warm and welcoming community; we are enjoying getting to know the people who live here,” said Cooper. “From volunteering at events to sponsoring them, the team has done a great job building connections in the area, and we are excited to have those connections grow.”

Based in upstate Rochester, the regional supermarket chain operates over 100 locations along the east coast. The family company celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016. 

After Wednesday’s 9 a.m. opening, the Lake Grove store will be open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. For more information, call 631-285-1300.

by -
0 559

By Heidi Sutton

Candy, flowers, heart-shaped notes — what’s not to like about Valentine’s Day? This sweet celebration, which happens every year on February 14, is all about spreading the love. Still don’t have plans for this special day? Check out these 14 events happening right in our own backyard. See more Valentine’s Day related events in next week’s TIMES … and dates.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a screening of ‘Casablanca’ at the Cinema Arts Centre.

1. ‘Casablanca’ at the CAC

“Of all the gin joints, in all the towns, 

in all the world, she walks into mine.“ 

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington invites all lovebirds and lonelyhearts to spend Valentine’s Day with them revisiting a classic, Casablanca, on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, $15 members and includes complimentary sweets. To order tickets in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

2. An evening of jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook presents “Here’s to the Ladies!” a special Valentine’s Day concert featuring The Jazz Loft All Stars playing tunes honoring the women of Jazz on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. The venue will supply the live jazz music, a glass of champagne and chocolate. You supply the romance. Tickets are $50. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

3. HeARTS for ART

Fall in love with art at the HeARTS for ART Valentine’s Day event at the Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington on Feb. 14 from noon to 5 p.m. Fall in love with a work of art and place a heart in front of your favorite work of art for all to see/ Then post your pick on social media with #heartsforart. Free with museum admission. 631-330-3230

4. WinterTide concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson hosts a special Valentine’s Day concert on Feb. 14 with musical storyteller Gerald Bair from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. Free. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. Call 473-5220 or visit www.gpjac.org.

5. Valentine’s Day Paint & Sip

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Northport Historical Society and Museum, 215 Main St., Northport with a fun, creative twist! Join curator Elizabeth Abrahams Riordan for a Paint and Sip event on Feb. 14 at 6 p.m. inspired by the iconic Still in Love graffiti on Northport’s Bayview Avenue. Participants will paint their own homage to this unique piece of local street art and enjoy adult beverages. For ages 21 and over. Tickets are $35 per person, $30 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org. 631-757-9859

6. Grounds and Sounds concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a concert featuring The Claudia Jacobs Band on Feb. 14 to serve up tunes that will honor a wide range of feelings that are sure to touch hearts no matter where they might be residing at the moment. The show begins with an Open Mic at 7:30 (signup at 7 p.m.); the main act goes on at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, available in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. For more information, call 631-751-0297.

7. Michael Bublé Tribute

The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main St., Riverhead presents Feelin’ Good: The Ultimate Michael Bublé Experience with Anthony Bernasconi on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. Join them for a night filled with the timeless classics and unforgettable originals that have made Bublé a global sensation. Backed by a 17-piece orchestra, this show promises an authentic experience that will transport you straight to the front row of a live Bublé concert. Tickets range from $49 to $99. To order, call 727-4343 or visit www.suffolktheater.com.

8. Valentine dinner dance

Time to put on your dancing shoes! East Wind Long Island, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River presents its annual Valentine Dinner Dance in the Grand Ballroom on Feb. 14 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy a four hour premium open bar, live DJ music, passed hors d’oeuvres, gourmet buffet and dessert for $125 per person. For reservations, call 631-929-6585 or visit www.eastwindlongisland.com.

9. ‘Heartbreak Hotel’

Fans of Elvis will love Heartbreak Hotel at the John Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. The show takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll” and features over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs including, “That’s All Right,” “All Shook Up,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Burning Love,” “Good Rockin’ Tonight,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jail- house Rock,” “Are You Lonesome,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

10. Night Sky Love

Looking for an unusual date night with Your Valentine? The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road Centerport will present a special Valentine’s Day show, “Night Sky Love,” on Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. This live presentation celebrates Valentine’s Day and all of its lovers in outer space. With its Valentine/love emphasis, this show will explore how civilizations told stories about the constellations that included tales of heroism and love, and how they are depicted in the night sky.  Tickets to the afternoon show are $20 adults, $18 students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus), $16 children 12 and under. Tickets to the evening show are $12 adults, $10 students (with ID) and seniors (62-plus), $8 children 12 and under. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

11. ‘Jersey Boys’

Head over to the South Shore for a performance of Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons at the Argyle Theatre, 34 West Main St., Babylon on Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. Featuring chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You,” which brought The Four Seasons the highest honor: induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. For tickets, visit www.argyletheatre.com.

12. Valentine’s Day Tribute Concert

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History 604 Main St., Stony Brook for Pure Joy, a Valentine’s Day tribute to African American singers and composers with Paige Patterson and her band on Feb. 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy music from Stevie Wonder, Nancy Wilson, The Drifters, Corinne Bailey Rae and more. $45 per person includes champagne and refreshments. Call 631-751-7707 to reserve your seat.

13. Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour

And for the animal lover …. Save A Pet, 608 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station will hold a Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour fundraiser on Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join them for a special pregame treat. Enjoy wine, charcuterie, sweets, raffle baskets and a rose, all while supporting the animals at the shelter — and yes, adorable puppies will be in attendance to make your evening even more delightful! Your $25 ticket can be used toward an adoption fee. For reservations, visit www.saveapetusa.org.

14. Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center  for the Art, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra concert on the Main Stage on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. Conducted by Xian Zhang, the program will include Bellini’s Overture “I Capuleti e Montecchi”; Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with a piano solo by Owen Dodds; and Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. Join emeritus professor Peter Winkler in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. for a free pre-concert lecture. Tickets are $25 adults, $20 seniors and $10 students (with SBU ID). To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

by -
0 417
Santa heads to the American Airpower Museum in Farmingdale on Dec. 14.

Start your holiday season with one of the following Pancake Breakfast with Santa Claus events on the North Shore!

Centereach

Centereach Fire Department Engine Co. 3, 9 South Washington Ave., Centereach presents The Original Pancake Breakfast with Santa & Friends on Sunday, Dec. 8 with seatings hourly from 8 a.m. to noon. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, coffee and orange juice. $10 per person. For reservations, call 631-588-0118.

East Northport

Union United Methodist Church, 1018 Pulaski Road, East Northport will host Magic Circle Nursery School’s 43rd annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy a holiday treat filled with fun, food and a photo with Santa Claus. Tickets are $8 adults, $4 children. 631-754-5565

Farmingdale

The American Airpower Museum, 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale will host its Annual Holiday Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon. Join them in their historic Republic Aviation Hangar decorated for the holiday season for pancakes, sausage and hot beverages and juices followed by a meet and greet with Santa for photos and take a Flight line tram ride (weather permitting). Admission is $15 adults, $10 children. For reservations, call 631-293-6398.

Medford

Medford Fire Department, 171 Oregon Ave., Medford presents their annual Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, Dec. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $15 adults, $10 children, children age 2 and under are free. To RSVP, call 631-481-6184.

Mount Sinai

The North Shore Youth Council carries on the tradition of Breakfast with Santa at the Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai on Sunday, Dec. 15 with seatings at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon. Enjoy a breakfast buffet catered by Tuscany Gourmet Market and live holiday music. Admission is $25 adults, $20 children, under age 2 free. Includes a family photo with Santa and a favor for each child. Reservations are required, no walk-ins. Call 631-403-4846 or visit www.nsyc.com.

Rocky Point

Rocky Point Fire Department Engine Co. #1, 1 Hallock Landing Road, Rocky Point hosts its 25th annual Breakfast with Saanta on Sunday, Dec. 8 from 8 a.m. to noon. All you can eat pancakes, sausage, eggs, hash browns, orange juice, apple juice, coffee and tea. Meet Santa in front of an antique fire engine. Admission is $10 adults, $5 seniors and children ages 5 to 12, under the age of 5 are free. RSVP at 631-744-2231.

— Compiled by Heidi Sutton

 

by -
0 1154
Santa lights the tree at the Holtsville Ecology Center last year. Photo from Town of Brookhaven

By Heidi Sutton

While  a few communities took part in holiday tree lightings last week, the majority of tree lightings on the North Shore will take place this weekend and next weekend with caroling, treats and a special visit from Santa Claus. 

Centereach

The Centereach Civic Association invites the community to its annual holiday tree lighting and menorah lighting at their 2nd annual Dickens Festival on the lawn of Capital One Bank, 2100 Middle Country Road, Centereach on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. Enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, cookies and a visit from Santa. Rain date is Dec. 8 at 6 p.m. 

Cold Spring Harbor 

The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will host a tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. Santa Claus will light the hatchery’s Christmas Tree at 5:30 p.m. Free admission after 5 p.m. Suggested donation of $10 per family. 516- 692-6768

Coram

Coram Engine Company 2, corner of Route 112 and Pine Road, Coram will hold its annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. Join them in Santa’s Workshop to decorate your own Santa hat while you wait for Santa Claus to arrive to light the tree with music and refreshments. 631-698-9714

East Northport

— Island Christian Church, 400 Elwood Road, East Northport will hold its 3rd annual Community Tree Lighting event on Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m. Free family activities starting at 2:30 p.m. include ice skating, live nativity, Christmas show, cookie decorating, indoor snowball fights and much more. Visit islandchristian.com/christmas for more info and to register. 631-822-3000

— Join the East Northport Chamber of Commerce for the East Northport Holiday Tree Lighting at Clock Tower Park (corner of Bellerose Ave., and Larkfield Road) in East Northport on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.  Come say hi to Santa, and enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of Copenhagen Bakery.

Farmingville

The Farmingville community will hold its annual Tree Lighting at Triangle Park on Horseblock Road in Farmingville on Dec. 8 at 5 p.m.  Join Santa in lighting the Christmas tree and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday. Refreshments will be served at the Farmingville Fire Department after the event.

Flanders

The annual Big Duck Lighting will be held on Flanders Road in Flanders on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. The event features a visit from Quackerjack, the Long Island Ducks baseball team mascot, duck carols led by students from the Riverhead Middle School Show Choir, refreshments and the ever-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus by fire truck.

Greenlawn

The Greenlawn Civic Association hosts its 32nd annual “Meet at the Tree” Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 7 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, dance and musical performances, plus a special visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus on the Greenlawn Fire Dept. truck Bring your letters to Santa for the North Pole mailbox. www.greenlawncivic.org.

Holtsville

The Town of Brookhaven will hold its annual Christmas Tree Lighting event at the Holtsville Ecology Site, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. with costumed characters, musical entertainment, complimentary candy canes and hot chocolate, and a special appearance by Santa Claus, who will arrive via helicopter, and then assist with the countdown to light the tree. 631-451-9276

Huntington

The Town of Huntington’s  Holiday Spectacular Tree Lighting will be held  at 12 Wall Street in Huntington Village on Nov. 30 around 6:30 p.m. The event will be preceded by a vintage holiday parade at 5:30 p.m. 631-351-3000

Kings Park

The Kings Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony/Menorah Lighting at Veterans Plaza, 1 Church St., King Park on Dec. 8 at 4:15 p.m. Enjoy holiday music selections followed by invocation and welcome remarks from the chamber with hot chocolate and cookies. Held rain or shine. 631-269-7678

Lake Ronkonkoma

Join the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce at Raynor Park, 174 Ronkonkoma Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma on Dec. 1 for their annual Christmas Tree Lighting starting at 1 p.m. Enjoy holiday carols by local schoolchildren and a visit from Santa. 631-963-2796

Miller Place

— The 16th annual Tree Lighting and Polar Express will be held at the Aliano Shopping Center, 691 Route 25A, Miller Place on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. Enjoy a performance by the Dance Pointe Performing Arts Center, as well as Miller Place students, and a visit from Santa Claus before the tree lighting along with live music, vendors, food and fun. 

— Join the Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society and Santa Claus for a tree lighting at the Daniel Hawkins House on North Country Road, Miller Place on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. Then follow Santa and carolers on a candlelight tour of the William Miller House, 75 North Country Road, Miller Place and meet Clement Clarke Moore, author of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” $5 fee. For tickets, visit www.mpmshistoricalsociety.org.

Mount Sinai

Join the North Shore Youth Council and the Mount Sinai Fire Department for their 17th annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mount Sinai on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. Listen to festive caroling by the Sing 4 Music choir, warm up with hot chocolate with marshmallows and fresh baked cookies and visit with Santa. 631-403-4846

Nesconset

The Nesconset Chamber of Commerce will hold a Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at the Nesconset Gazebo on Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. with music, refreshments, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus. 631-724-2543

Northport

The Northport Village Tree Lighting event at Northport Village Park will kick off on Nov. 29 at 6:40 p.m. with a performance by the Posey School of Dance followed by Christmas Carols sung by the Northport Chorale! Stick around for the arrival of Village firetrucks carrying some very special visitors. 

Port Jefferson Station 

Join the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce for a Community Tree Lighting at the Chamber Car, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, candy canes, cookies, holiday music, dance performances and pictures with Santa & Mrs Claus who will arrive in an antique fire truck. 631-821-1313

Rocky Point

The 40th annual Rocky Point Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. at the corner of Broadway and Prince Road, Rocky Point with live holiday music, hot chocolate and candy canes and a special visit from Santa. 631-729-0699

Ronkonkoma

Join Station Yards, 3 Hawkins Ave., Ronkonkoma for its 1st annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Nov. 30 at 5:30 p.m. Santa himself will lead the countdown to light the tree, followed by storytelling and photos with the children. Come early to explore the Holiday Market from noon to 4 p.m. 631-751-0300

St. James

The St. James Chamber of Commerce, Deepwells Farm Historical Society and the St. James Fire Department invites the community to a Christmas Tree Lighting celebration at Deepwells Farm County Park, 2 Taylor Lane, St. James on Dec. 7 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. with holiday music, kids crafts, pictures with Santa, cookies and hot chocolate. 631-584-8510

Shoreham

Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, 5 Randall Road, Shoreham invites the community to their annual Holiday Lighting at Wardenclyffe event on Dec. 7 from 3 to 6 p.m. Enjoy music, festive exhibits and activities for all ages with a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Rain date is Dec. 14. Register for your free tickets at www.teslasciencecenter.org. 631-886-2632

Smithtown

— Town of Smithtown will host its annual tree lighting ceremony at Town Hall, 99 West Main St. Smithtown on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with live music, performances from local school districts and dance companies, holiday treats, and a special guest from the North Pole, Rain date is Dec. 5.

NEW LOCATION — Smithtown Library, 148 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset will light their holiday tree on Dec. 6 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with refreshments, music and photos with Santa. 631-360-2480

Stony Brook

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization hosts a Holiday Tree Lighting with Santa at the Stony Brook Village Center Green, 111 Main St., Stony Brook on Dec. 8 at 5:30 p.m. as part of the WMHO’s 45th annual Holiday Festival. 631-751-2244.

Wading River

The Shoppes at East Wind in Wading River will host its 8th annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Dec. 7 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Enjoy live DJ entertainment and a dance number by All Star Dance Academy. Children can ride Rudolph on the carousel and put in a letter in Santa’s mailbox. Santa arrives on a Wading River Fire Department fire truck at 6 p.m. to light the tree. 631-846-2372

by -
0 620
1 of 11
JAZZ HANDS! The cast of 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Barnaby Saves Christmas' 2024. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

By Heidi Sutton

Twenty years ago, Theatre Three’s Douglas Quattrock decided to put down on paper an original bedtime story he had been telling his nieces and nephews for years. Joining forces with Jeffrey Sanzel, they created an adorable musical about a little elf and a tiny reindeer who teach us that “Christmas lies within our hearts.” Titled Barnaby Saves Christmas, it has become a beloved tradition that comes to life on the theater’s stage for the holidays.

It’s Christmas Eve and Santa’s workshop is a flurry of activity as elves Sam, Crystal and Blizzard make last minute preparations before they join Santa and his reindeer in delivering presents. The newest elf, Barnaby, is busy finishing a special request from Santa — a little stuffed bear with dark blue pants, buckles on his shoes and a bright yellow vest. 

When everyone else leaves on Santa’s sleigh, Barnaby soon realizes that the stuffed bear has been left behind and convinces Franklynne the littlest reindeer to help him track down Santa and give him the toy. Along the way they meet a Jewish family and learn all about Hanukkah and bump into an evil villain named S. B. Dombulbury who, with his partner in crime Irving, are stuffing chimneys with coal in order to steal all the presents. 

Directed by Colleen Britt, the show, featuring 9 adult cast members — Matthew J. Hoffman (Barnaby), Cassidy Rose O’Brien (Franklynne), Steven Uihlein (S.B. Dombulbury), Julia Albino (Sam), Jason Allyn (Santa, Andrew), Jason Furnari (Irving), Gina Lardi (Mrs. Claus, Sarah), Katy Snair (Blizzard, Rebecca) and Delaney Jessica (Crystal, Dalia) — is always evolving. For this special anniversary, Quattrock has added a new song, “Light the Candles,” with additional characters in the second act and the sound effects and lighting have reached new elevations.

Many of the actors are given a chance to shine with solos with special mention to Hoffman’s rendition of “Still With A Ribbon on Top,” Uihlein’s “S.B. Dombulbury,””Gina Lardi’s “Miracles,” and Allyn’s “Within Our Hearts,” all beautifully executed. 

With choreography by Sari Feldman, the holiday show is jam packed with singing (including a fun rap song) and dancing (even tap!), comedy, suspense, hypnosis, surprises and a fun chase scene through the theater your kids will love. It even snows on stage! The show utilizes the set of the theater’s current production of “A Christmas Carol,” giving it an authentic feel and the sparkly and elegant costumes by the multi-talented Jason Allyn complete the magic.

Kick off your holidays with Barnaby Saves Christmas and experience an afternoon of pure joy. Souvenir elves and reindeer are available for purchase before the show and during intermission and the entire cast will be in the lobby after the show for photos. 

—————————————–

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Barnaby Saves Christmas through Dec. 28. Children’s theater continues with Hansel & Gretel from Jan. 24 to Feb. 8, Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 19 to March 29, The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 16 to May 10 and Snow White from May 29 to June. 21. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

by -
0 710
A scene from last year's ceremony in East Setauket. Photo by Greg Catalano

November 11 marks the annual observance of Veterans Day, a day on which we honor the millions of brave men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. The following communities on the North Shore will pay their respects:

Calverton

Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Road, Calverton will hold a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. for a Veterans Day Ceremony. 631-727-5410

East Setauket

VFW Post 3054 will host a veterans recognition service at the Memorial Park at the corner of Shore Road and Route 25A in East Setauket on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. Residents are invited to join local veterans for a short ceremony that will feature the laying of wreaths from local community groups. 631-406-1938

Farmingdale

Long Island National Cemetery, 2040 Wellwood Ave., in Farmingdale will hold a veterans’ honor ceremony on Nov. 10 at 2 p.m. 516-749-7085

Greenlawn

Hosted by American Legion Post 1244, a Veterans Day ceremony will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Pulaski Road, Greenlawn on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. with neighboring American Legion posts plus many community groups and Scouts. 631-487-4776

Huntington

The public is invited to join Town of Huntington officials, the Veterans Advisory Board and local officials for a Veterans Day Ceremony on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 10:30 a.m. on Veterans Plaza in front of Huntington Town Hall, 100 Main St., Huntington. 631-351-3012

Kings Park

VFW Post 5796 presents a Veterans Day Parade will be held in Kings Park on Nov. 11. Step off is at RJO Intermediate School, 99 Old Dock Road, Kings Park at 10 a.m. and ends at Veterans Plaza in front of the Kings Park Library and 1 Church St. The parade will be followed by opening prayers, guest speakers, Moment of Remembrance and wreath laying ceremony followed by closing prayers. 631-269-6421

Port Jefferson

American Legion Wilson Ritch Post 432 invites the community to attend a Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park on East Broadway in Port Jefferson (across from Village Hall) on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. 631-626-2911

Rocky Point

Join the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6249, 109 King Road, Rocky Point for a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. 631-744-9106

Smithtown

Smithtown American Legion Post 833, and Smithtown Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10870 will hold a Veterans Day Ceremony honoring our nations veterans at Veterans Plaza, Main St., Smithtown on Nov. 11 at 10:45 p.m. 631-724-1804.

Sound Beach

The Sound Beach Civic Association will hold a Veterans Day service at the Sound Beach Veterans Memorial Park on New York Avenue on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. Miller Place School District students will provide patriotic music. All are welcome. 631-744-6952 

St. James

Sgt. John W. Cooke VFW Post 395 will host a Veterans Day Parade in St. James on Nov. 11. The parade will kick off at 10 a.m. and heads down Lake Avenue to St. James Elementary School. 516-987-6201

Setauket

Caroline Episcopal Church, 1 Dyke Road, Setauket will host “A Day of Honor,” a service of appreciation and remembrance for those who have served (and currently serve) our country and communities, in the armed forces and as first responders, on Nov. 10 at 9:30 a.m. Join them for a unique service with music, special guests, and prayers for peace. 631-941-4245

—  Compiled by Heidi Sutton

by -
0 660
Voters line up in front of Brookhaven Town Hall in Farmingville on Nov. 3. Photo by Heidi Sutton

By Heidi Sutton

Many Long Islanders did not wait for Election Day to cast their vote this year but instead took advantage of the numerous early polling stations from Oct. 25 to Nov. 3.

At the Rose Caracappa Senior Center in Mount Sinai on Friday, Nov. 1, long lines wrapped around the building and the parking lot quickly filled to capacity, causing many to park along a stretch of Route 25A and walk  along the road.

At Brookhaven Town Hall, the busiest polling spot in the Town of Brookhaven, 19,000 votes were cast on Saturday, Nov. 2 and voters stood in line for over an hour and a half on Sunday, Nov. 3, the last day for early voting.

Those who haven’t voted yet will have one more chance on Tuesday, Nov. 5, Election Day. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

 

by -
0 4365
1 of 9
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
Amazon Fresh
Amazon Fresh
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.

Prev123...23Next Page 2 of 23
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©