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Tom Needham

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The Hassles, from left, Billy Joel, Richard McKenna, Jon Small, John Dizek and Howie Arthur Blauvelt. Photo courtesy of The Hassles/Jon Small

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), 97 Main St., Stony Brook has announced it will be inducting Long Island’s own 1960s era seminal rock-soul group, The Hassles — best known as Billy Joel’s first major record label band — including acclaimed drummer-turned-video-director Jon Small. 

Additionally, there will be a special celebration event co-produced by Stephen Marcuccio on Saturday, June 28, at 8 p.m. The event is open to the public with a special event ticket purchase of $50 (online purchase includes $3.50 fee) and includes access to the LIMEHOF’s current exhibit, Billy Joel My Life: A Piano Man’s Journey which features a section about the Hassles.

“The Hassles were a dynamic and influential part of Long Island’s musical fabric in the 1960s, known for their powerful performances and infectious sound,” said Tom Needham, LIMEHOF Vice Chairman. “Their recordings and live shows left a lasting impression on the region, and their role in launching Billy Joel’s career only adds to their enduring legacy.”

The Hassles were formed in 1964 and performed until 1969. They played in a wide range of Long Island venues and produced two full-length albums. Original members included Richard McKenna (guitar), Jon Small (drums), John Dizek (vocals, harmonica, tambourine), Harry Weber (bass, organ) Billy Joel (keyboards, vocals), and Howie Arthur Blauvelt (bass). Jon Small, a resident of Northport, and Richard McKenna, surviving members of the group, are expected to be in attendance to accept the induction. Billy Joel is not expected to appear, but this induction makes him a two-time LIMEHOF inductee.

LIMEHOF inductee Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel’s Band) is expected to officially induct the group. The event will feature live performances from current LIMEHOF inductees, including the hit-making duo The Alessi Brothers, and two-time LIMEHOF inductee drummer Mike Ricciardella of Barnaby Bye and The Illusion. Joining them on guitar will be legendary guitarist Jimmy Rip. 

These musicians will honor the legacy of The Hassles by performing some of the group’s most popular songs, including “Every Step I Take,” “You Got Me Hummin’,” and “I Can Tell.” Also, LIMEHOF inductee Albert Bouchard (founding and former member of Blue Öyster Cult) is expected to speak as well.

The event will be co-produced by music visionary Stephen Marcuccio, whose long-standing presence in the Long Island music scene includes his work as co-founder of The Downtown (Long Island’s iconic live venue), and his decades-long collaboration with The Alessi Brothers.

“This night is about honoring the legacy of Long Island music,” Marcuccio said. “The Hassles were a critical part of that history. Recognizing Jon Small and his incredible impact on both music and visual storytelling is long overdue.” 

To purchase tickets, visit www.limusichalloffame.org. For more information, call 631-689-5888.

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Joe Pomarico

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) will host a screening of a short comedy, drama, and thriller film block by West Babylon director Joe Pomarico on Saturday, June 21st at 1 p.m. at LIMEHOF’s museum, located at 97 Main Street, in Stony Brook, NY. This event is part of LIMEHOF’s Monthly Local Filmmakers Series, which places the spotlight on Long Island-based movie directors and their films.

”I am deeply honored to be a part of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame’s local filmmaker series,” said Pomarico. “Having my films shown here is not only personally meaningful, but also a powerful way to shine a light on the incredible talent of Long Island filmmakers. It’s incredibly challenging to get the right people to recognize my films—especially as an independent filmmaker working with limited resources and without the backing that many others have. The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is a respected platform that amplifies the voices of underrepresented filmmakers, and brings our work to a wider, more influential audience.”

The film block will feature Pomarico’s latest TV pilot, “Roach the Coach” (with equipment provided by Canon), starring Ronkonkoma comedian Chris Roach and Jeni Pomper. This film is about a veteran professional standup comedian who takes an aspiring young comic under his wing and mentors her into becoming the entertainer of her dreams. The block will also include Pomarico’s short films, “Soldiers Love to Come Home” (2008), “Gus” (2010), “My Butterfly” (2011), “This is Love” (2013), “Jiggle the Handle” (2022), “Hairbreadth Escape” (2023), and “Feline Abduction” (2023), among other selections.

The film series is sponsored by Rob Eberle of Magnetic Vine and G&R Events. There will be a Q&A with Pomarico following the screening, emceed by LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham.

“The LIMEHOF Local Filmmakers Series is a celebration of the incredible filmmaking talent emerging from our region,” said Needham. “Each month, we showcase the creativity, passion, and dedication of local filmmakers, providing them with a platform to share their work and connect with audiences who appreciate the power of storytelling. This series is an important part of our mission to support the arts and highlight Long Island’s impact on the entertainment industry.”

LIMEHOF welcomes nominations of local film directors and movies for consideration to feature in the series. For more information, contact LIMEHOF at[email protected].

About Director, Writer, Editor, Producer, Actor, and Painter Joe Pomarico

Joe Pomarico is a filmmaker best known for his intense films that capture and magnify the little moments in life that many of us would take for granted or pass without notice. Expanding on these moments draws out the hidden connections between Mr. Pomarico’s characters and exposes his audience to subtle emotions of a world that otherwise would end up on the cutting-room floor in the hands of another filmmaker. Whether it’s a pair of eyes bordering on seduction or an awkward handshake, Mr. Pomarico has an appreciation for all levels of human interactions, and his appreciation resounds loudly in his films. He can manipulate the tiny gray lines of emotions to such a wonderful extent that the natural conversation and action between characters lead to great thrills for his audience.

Mr. Pomarico does not only have a talent for filmmaking, but he is also a gifted painter. At an early age, Mr. Pomarico demonstrated an ability to capture on canvas composition, depth, and perception in his paintings. His closest friend, mentor, and grandfather— Augustus Massaro—noticed this gift in the young Pomarico when he was seven years old and nurtured it. Through his grandfather, Mr. Pomarico learned to blend colors and shapes with paint and to subtly transform a blank canvas into a landscape of his imagination.

Later, his grandfather introduced Mr. Pomarico to the world of film and filmmaking, and it did not take long for this gifted student to realize his calling. With the skills that were bestowed on him and the knowledge he was taught, Mr. Pomarico developed strong skills for directing films. With his close attention to detail that he acquired from the painting of landscapes, and years of studying thousands of films, Mr. Pomarico has matured into an excellent storyteller and is poised to be a great feature film director as well as an Oscar-winning contender.

In addition to creating his own films, Pomarico worked as an assistant to Spike Lee. His experiences have proven invaluable on every project he takes on, regardless of budget, whether it’s a microbudget indie film or a Hollywood production.  Joe Pomarico and his wife Christine James Walker have been producing partners for over a decade, collaborating on numerous projects including Jiggle the Handle and the feature film Mentally Apart, both currently streaming on Amazon. Her latest work was acting alongside the late, great Treat Williams in his final role in FEUD: Capote vs The Swans directed by Oscar nominated director Gus Van Sant.

Pomarico’s next venture, a short film titled Darling of Pearl, is currently fundraising on Kickstarter.  DARLING OF PEARL tells the heartfelt story of a young black man and a young white woman who fall deeply in love during the racially charged late 1960s after his return home from the Vietnam war. The narrative unfolds across time, with sentimental transitions between their youthful years and his elderly time, where he reflects on their love while being patiently hopeful for a sign from his soul mate.

Director Joe Pomarico’s Film Block

Soldiers Love to Come Home (2008) Synopsis: A veteran surprises his beloved wife after his time in war. (Shot in Dix Hills.)

Roach the Coach (TV pilot) (2025) Film equipment provided by Canon.
Synopsis: A veteran professional standup comedian (Chris Roach) takes an aspiring young comic (Jeni Pomper) under his wing and mentors her into becoming the entertainer of her dreams. (Shot in Levittown’s “Governors Comedy Club” and Dix Hills.)

Feline Abduction (2023) Synopsis: Jean is on a hunt for the person responsible of her pussycat Puffin’s death in this “Naked Gun”-inspired slapstick comedy. This entry was made for a 48-hour film contest and with no budget. (Shot in Lindenhurst and West Babylon.)

Doritos Commercial: “Crash the Superbowl Contest: Belt Something Out” (2024) Made with no crew and no budget. (Shot in Ronkonkoma.)

AMC FearFest ’08: “Joe Pomarico’s Greatest Fear” (2008) FearFest ’08 film contest hosted by the AMC Channel. Judged by Rob Zombie, this film came in second place. (Shot in Dix Hills.)

Jiggle the Handle (2022) Synopsis: When two adult siblings reunite due to unfortunate events, they are pressured into welcoming a Mob-connected roommate. This passion project was filmed with no crew and no budget. (Shot in Ronkonkoma, West Babylon, Babylon Beaches, and Pennsylvania.)

Hairbreadth Escape (2023) Synopsis: A widow makes contact with her deceased husband from a parallel universe. This entry was for a 48-hour film contest. It was filmed with no budget. (Shot in East Meadow.)

This is Love (2013) Synopsis: This is an experimental story within a dance. An emotionally intense, cultivating dance with a twist ending, this film combines the performance of a tango crossed with a ballet. “Spaghetti Western” music sets the ambient tone of the piece. A proposal is set for the beautiful Gisela, a wounded angel with a heart of gold. She needs to make her final decision whether to stay with the man she so desperately loves or end their ties indefinitely—even if that means taking drastic measures. Inspired by Maestro Ennio Morricone. (Shot in East Setauket.)

Gus (2010): Synopsis: Seen through the eyes of director Joe Pomarico, this film tells a story of how art influences and increases the bond between grandfather and grandson. (Shot in Syosset.)

My Butterfly (2011) Synopsis: A tragic love story, inspired by the music and times of Maria Callas, this 1950s period piece plays like an opera. Jack, a handsome young man, meets Maria, a beautiful writer. The two develop a relationship that parallels the intensity of the accompanying soundtrack of arias (most of which are sung by Maria Callas). The situation is complicated when their relationship is challenged by a highly intense, powerful, and stunning young woman, Eve, who appears on the scene. (Shot in Sands Point, Village Club of Sands Point, and Port Washington.)

About LIMEHOF

Founded in 2004, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the idea that Long Island’s musical and entertainment heritage is an important resource to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. The organization, which encompasses New York State’s Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings (Brooklyn) Counties, was created as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music and entertainment in all its forms.  In 2022, LIMEHOF opened its first Hall of Fame building location in Stony Brook, New York. To date, the organization has inducted more than 130 musicians and music industry executives, and offers education programs, scholarships, and awards to Long Island students and educators.

 

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The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) in Stony Brook recently hosted Huntington Film Director Sean Quincy King  who screened his latest film ScreamWalkers on May 17. This event was part of LIMEHOF’s Monthly Local Filmmakers Series putting the spotlight on Long Island Directors and their films.

“We’re so appreciative of the spotlight and the opportunity to screen here,” said King. “Having a place like LIMEHOF to screen local movies and feature local talent is so invaluable because it gives other people the opportunity to see what’s happening locally and to inspire. For someone who just started a band or just picked up a movie camera for the first time…to see that there is a place here that is interested and is willing to feature you and give you a chance. Filmmakers beg for that kind of opportunity.”

The film series is sponsored by Rob Eberle of Magnetic Vine and G&R Events. Following the screening, there was a Q&A panel emceed by LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham. Director Sean King, Bob Heckman, Will Puntarich, Glenn McBride Jr. and Peter Bune Jr. participated.

“The LIMEHOF Local Filmmakers Series is a celebration of the incredible filmmaking talent emerging from our region,” said Needham. “Each month, we showcase the creativity, passion, and dedication of local filmmakers, providing them with a platform to share their work and connect with audiences who appreciate the power of storytelling. This series is an important part of our mission to support the arts and highlight Long Island’s impact on the entertainment industry.”

Sean Qunicy King is an award-winning director, cinematographer, producer and actor whose films and TV credits include the cult classic comedy/horror TV show The Ghouligans! (2005-2015). He is also known for his cinematography work on the award-winning films Night For Day (2008), The Night Never Sleeps (2012), Send No Flowers (2013), and Cigarette Soup (2014). King has also worked as director on many commercials, documentaries, feature and television projects as well, such as Lost Suburbia (2007), This Mortal Coil (2010), and Hunter’s Moon(2015).

Screamwalkers was shot on Long Island in Huntington, Northport, Farmingville, and Setauket and stars actors from Long Island including Elizabeth Davoli, Glenn McBride Jr., Sasha Graham, Andy Rowell, Jason Seidl, Celia Spero, Rose Stark, Will Puntarich, Dino Castelli, Jen Elyse Feldy, Bernard Jackson, Ariann Huether, Ed Huether, Arabelis Griffin, Talia Griffin, Aidan P. Finnegan, Joe Winchell and Matt Weir.

The next LIMEOHF Local Filmmaker series film series event will be on June 21st and feature West Babylon Film Director Joe Pomarico. LIMEHOF welcomes nominations of local film directors and movies for consideration to feature in the series. For more information: Contact LIMEHOF at [email protected]

About LIMEHOF

Founded in 2004, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the idea that Long Island’s musical and entertainment heritage is an important resource to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. The organization, which encompasses New York State’s Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings (Brooklyn) Counties, was created as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music and entertainment in all its forms.  In 2022, LIMEHOF opened its first Hall of Fame building location in Stony Brook, New York. To date, the organization has inducted more than 130 musicians and music industry executives, and offers education programs, scholarships, and awards to Long Island students and educators.

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From left, LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham, LIMEHOF Manager Barry Fisch, actress Taylor Red Fox, Director Maria Capp, actor Chris Road, actress Veronica Kelly, LIMEHOF Chairman Ernie Canadeo and actor Seth Gilliam at the event. Photo courtesy of LIMEHOF
Actor Chris Roach speaks at the event.
Actress Taylor Red Fox speaks at the event. Photo courtesy of LIMEHOF
Staff and crew of 'The Lady of the Lake' take questions from the audience after the screening. Photo courtesy of LIMEHOF
‘The Lady of the Lake’ stars Seth Gilliam, Chris Roach, Taylor Red Fox, and Veronica Kelly come out to show support. 

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) honored director Maria Capp (originally from Ronkonkoma), and screened her latest film, The Lady of The Lake: The Legend of Lake Ronkonkoma, on Saturday, April 19 at the museum, located at 97 Main Street in Stony Brook. This event was the lead-off film of LIMEHOF’s recently announced Monthly Local Filmmakers Series, which turns the spotlight on Long Island-based directors and their films. 

Capp flew out from Los Angeles to participate in the event and was joined on stage by some of the film’s stars, including Seth Gilliam, Chris Roach, Taylor Red Fox, and Veronica Kelly for a Q&A after the screening. They all spoke about being part of the film. 

“I think it’s wonderful, and I’m really grateful to everybody who has opened their arms and provided this opportunity to be the first film in the film series,” said Capp. “It’s really important what’s being done—and that is to keep arts in the community and bring local artists to the forefront. It’s been really quite an enjoyable experience and a pleasure working with everybody here.”  

Seth Gilliam, perhaps best known for his roles in The Walking Dead and The Wire, plays Adam Schultz, the main character’s father, in Lady of the Lake. He says it was great to screen and watch it with a local Long Island audience.   

“The crowd was really attentive and seemed to really dig it, and that makes it all worth the price of admission to me,” Gilliam said. “I wanted to be part of a coming-of-age story, but I’ve long since ‘come of age’—so being the father was the only role that I could actually play. I was drawn to it [the film] because of Maria Capp’s passion for the project and need to tell the story, and I wanted to be a part of it.” 

Chris Roach is a comedian from Ronkonkoma. He says he was aware of the real legend of the lake and wanted to be part of the film when Maria told him about it.

“She sent me the script and I really liked the role,” Roach said. “He’s a guy who adds some comic relief to the movie, which is something I really love doing. Being a proud Long Islander, it’s important to come out and represent whenever you can. This was extra special because I had a little part in it—and I love Maria and her family.” 

 Taylor Red Fox is an actress who has recently appeared in the TV series Manifest, has acted in off-Broadway theater, and is also a member of The Shinnecock Nation. She plays Tahoma in Lady of the Lake. 

“I’m excited that we’re all here as Long Island community members and we can help add to the artists in the area,” Red Fox said. “We were able to portray a side of the story that wasn’t disrespectful or dishonoring the memories of anyone living in the area. It was great working with Maria and Seth and the other actors, and I love that we were able to include actors who are local from the area in ways they may already be involved in the community—like being a comedian.”  

The film series is sponsored by Rick Eberle of Magnetic Vine and G&R Events. LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham organized the event and emceed the Q&A that followed the screening. 

“The LIMEHOF Monthly Local Filmmaker Series is a celebration of the incredible filmmaking talent emerging from our region,” said Needham. “Each month, we showcase the creativity, passion, and dedication of local filmmakers—providing them with a platform to share their work and connect with audiences who appreciate the power of storytelling. This series is an important part of our mission to support the arts and highlight Long Island’s impact on the entertainment industry.”

For over 20 years, Maria has worked in film and with the arts community on Long Island, NY and in Los Angeles, CA in a variety of roles as an award-winning writer, director, producer, and acting coach. In addition to The Lady of the Lake, she has been involved as a producer with many notable movie credits which include narrative features in the storytelling: Reach, DIVOS!, Four Cousins and a Christmas, and the Weekly World News Studios’ The Zombie Wedding.

The Lady of The Lake: The Legend of Lake Ronkonkoma is a Native American folklore thriller distributed by Vision Films Inc. This film was shot on location, in around filmmaker Maria Capp’s childhood hometown Ronkonkoma, and stars Seth Gilliam (The Walking Dead) and Nia Sioux (Dance Moms) as, respectively the father and daughter protagonists. Also featured are Larry Saperstein (High School Musical: The Musical [TV Series]), Emery Kelly (Netflix’s Alexa & Katie), Steven Thomas Capp (Fat Camp), and Julie Dove (Days of our Lives).

The next director to be recognized in the series is Sean King from Huntington on Saturday, May 17 at 1 p.m. Sean will be screening his latest film ScreamWalkers and be accompanied by Glenn McBride Jr. (Actor), Celia Spero (Actor), and Peter Bune Jr. (Producer). LIMEHOF welcomes nominations of local film directors and movies for consideration to feature in the series. For more information, visit the LIMEHOF website at https://www.limusichalloffame.org/

 

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Film director Maria Capp's 'The Lady of the Lake' will be screened this weekend. Photos courtesy of LIMEHOF

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), 97 Main Street, Stony Brook recently announced the launch of a monthly LIMEHOF Local Filmmakers Series, which turns the spotlight on Long Island directors and their films. Sponsored by Rick Rberle of Magnetic Vine and G&R Events, the series will feature a variety of dramas, horror films, comedies, and documentaries, among other genres. Attendance is free for LIMEHOF members and general admission ticket price for non-members. 

Sean King’s ‘Screamwalkers’ will be screened on May 17. Photo courtesy of LIMEHOF

“The LIMEHOF Monthly Local Filmmaker Series is a celebration of the incredible filmmaking talent emerging from our region,” saidLIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham. “Each month, we showcase the creativity, passion, and dedication of local filmmakers, providing them with a platform to share their work and connect with audiences who appreciate the power of storytelling. This series is an important part of our mission to support the arts and highlight Long Island’s impact on the entertainment industry.”

The series will kick off with film director Maria Capp, who will screen her latest film, The Lady of The Lake: The Legend of Lake Ronkonkoma, on Saturday, April 19 at 1 p.m. 

A Native American folklore thriller distributed by Vision Films Inc., the film was shot on location, in around the filmmaker Maria Capp’s childhood hometown of Ronkonkoma and stars Seth Gilliam (The Walking Dead) and Nia Sioux (Dance Moms) as, respectively the father and daughter protagonists. Also featured are Larry Saperstein (High School Musical: The Musical [TV Series]), Emery Kelly (Netflix’s Alexa & Katie), Steven Thomas Capp (Fat Camp), and Julie Dove (Days of our Lives). See trailer here.

“I wrote, directed, and produced a psychological thriller about Lake Ronkonkoma’s legend, addressing grief and challenging Native American stereotypes,” Capp said. A Q&A panel will follow the screening, emceed by Needham. 

The series continues on Saturday, May 17 at 1 p.m. with a screening of filmmaker Sean King’s Screamwalkers, the ultimate 90’s style slasher experience.

LIMEHOF welcomes nominations of local film directors and movies for consideration to feature in the series. For more information, call 631-394-8387.

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Seeking high school vocalists and musicians to apply by deadline of June 1st

This summer, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) will host its first All-Star Band Camp for high school students (grades 9-12). The week-long program will run from July 28th through August 1st at 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. each day and conclude with a final concert on Sunday, August 3rd at 3 p.m.

The unique aspect of this band camp is that it will be the first ever to be held in LIMEHOF’s Museum at 97 Main Street in Stony Brook. Students will explore and learn about the great artists who have been inducted into LIMEHOF—from Blue Öyster Cult and Mariah Carey to Billy Joel and Twisted Sister.

“As part of LIMEHOF’s commitment to education, we are thrilled to offer students the opportunity to perform songs by our esteemed inductees in the unique setting of the museum,” said LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham, who manages LIMEHOF’s educational programs. “The All-Star Band Camp is a one-of-a-kind experience that connects young musicians with Long Island’s rich musical legacy.”

The program will be coached by LIMEHOF Long Island Sound Award Winner Jack Licitra (from Bayport) of South Bay Arts and his staff, all of whom have extensive experience managing youth programs. Jack Licitra has been coaching youth bands since 2008.  He has developed an efficient approach that highlights talent and prepares kids for the intensity of live performance.

“LIMEHOF is inspiring the next generation of LI musicians and this a great step towards cultivating that talent to create a thriving music scene,” said Licitra.

This intensive experience will have students playing for two-and-a-half hours each day for 5 days of rehearsals and a 6th-day concert performance in the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. This program was designed to enable students to have a team building and professional music experience. All high school-aged vocalists, drummers, guitarists, bass players, and keyboardists from Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Kings (Brooklyn) counties are welcome to apply by the deadline of June 1st. The arrangements will be created specifically for the enrolled ensemble and their skills. The cost to participate is $350.

To apply, please email student’s name, age, specific instrument/vocalist, and contact information to Tom Needham at[email protected] or call 631-689-5888.

About LIMEHOF

Founded in 2004, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the idea that Long Island’s musical and entertainment heritage is an important resource to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. The organization, which encompasses New York State’s Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings (Brooklyn) Counties, was created as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music and entertainment in all its forms.  In 2022, LIMEHOF opened its first Hall of Fame building location in Stony Brook, New York. To date, the organization has inducted more than 130 musicians and music industry executives, and offers education programs, scholarships, and awards to Long Island students and educators.

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IThe Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) has announced the launch of its inaugural Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Music Documentary Film Festival from Aug. 8 to Aug. 10  at LIMEHOF’s museum location at 97 Main Street in Stony Brook Village. Entries are now open to music documentary films from around the world and will be accepted through May 1st on FilmFreeway.

“This music documentary film festival is the perfect way to extend the mission of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame—to preserve the past, celebrate the present, and ignite a love for music in future generations,” said LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham who is organizing the film festival as Executive Director with film festival Artistic Director Wendy Feinberg.

While many know LIMEHOF as the exclusive home of the My Life: A Piano Man’s Journey Billy Joel exhibit, over the last 20 years, LIMEHOF has inducted over 130 Long Island artists, from a wide range of artists in all music genres including Billy Joel, Stephen Schwartz, Mariah Carey, Lou Reed, Clive Davis, Barbra Streisand, Neil Diamond, Ramones, Public Enemy, Carter Burwell, John Coltrane, Run DMC, Cyndi Lauper, Louis Armstrong and Simon & Garfunkel. This is the first time the museum is holding a music themed film festival of this kind.

“As a music lover, I am extremely excited to be involved in the creation of a film festival totally devoted to music docs to be held at a fantastic venue, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame!” said Wendy Feinberg, Artistic Director of the film festival.

The film festival has just accepted the new documentary “Cat’s in the Cradle: The Song That Changed Our Lives” which celebrates LIMEHOF inductee Harry Chapin who founded Long Island Cares. The film features several LIMEHOF inductees including Billy Joel, Pat Benatar, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and Dee Snider.

“As Executive Director of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Music Documentary Film Festival, I am honored to announce the screening of Cats in the Cradle: The Song that Changed Our Lives,” said Needham. “Harry Chapin, a proud Long Islander and LIMEHOF inductee, used his music not only to tell stories but to change lives. This documentary beautifully captures the enduring power of Cats in the Cradle, a song that has resonated across generations and continues to inspire reflection on family, time, and the choices we make.”

This brand-new initiative amplifies LIMEHOF’s mission to celebrate music in all its forms. This festival will exclusively showcase music documentary films from around the world that examine music topics like music scenes, music history, tours, biographies, festivals, music education, concerts, culture and music technology.

The festival accepts music documentaries in features and shorts categories. The entry fee is $40, and entries are accepted through May 1. At the conclusion of the festival, awards will be issued in a variety of categories to recognize the best participating films. For more information, full rules and details please visit FilmFreeway(https://filmfreeway.com/LongIslandMusicandEntertainmentHallofFameMusicDocumentaryFilmFestival)

About LIMEHOF

Founded in 2004, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the idea that Long Island’s musical and entertainment heritage is an important resource to be celebrated and preserved for future generations. The organization, which encompasses New York State’s Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings (Brooklyn) Counties, was created as a place of community that inspires and explores Long Island music and entertainment in all its forms.  In 2022, LIMEHOF opened its first Hall of Fame building location in Stony Brook, New York. To date, the organization has inducted more than 130 musicians and music industry executives, and offers education programs, scholarships, and awards to Long Island students and educators.

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LIMEHOF Education Committee Member Mike Rodgers presents 2024 Educator of Note Award to Rocky Point Music Teacher Craig Knapp. Photo from LIMEHOF
Mike Rodgers hands Craig Knapp Educator of Note Award. Photo by Tom Needham
New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio presents special citation to Craig Knapp. Barry Fisch Photography
Craig Knapp greets former student Julia Brandow. Photo from LIMEHOF
LIMEHOF board member Tom Needham with honoree Craig Knapp. Photo from LIMEHOF
Music Teacher Desiree DeMelfi who nominated Craig, 5th Grade Student Emma Wurm, Rocky Point Music Department Chair Amy Schecher speak at LIMEHOF Educator of Note Awards in honor of Criag Knapp. Barry Fisch Photography.
L-R Rocky Point Students Serena Carley and Olna Carley, former student Grace Donofrio, pianist Sara Ruggerio, Music Department Chair from Rocky Point School District Amy Schecher, Nate Drinkwater and Andrew Nagle performed to honor Music Teacher Craig Knapp at LIMEHOF’s 2024 Educator of Note at awards ceremony. Barry Fisch Photography
Craig Knapp speaks to students, colleagues, friends and family at LIMEHOF Educator of Note event. Barry Fisch Photography

Alumni and current students perform and pack the house to celebrate popular Rocky Point Music Teacher

Students, former students, colleagues, friends and family of Rocky Point Elementary Music Teacher and Department Chairperson Craig Knapp packed the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEOHF) recently to honor the 2024 ‘Educator of Note’ winner. The ceremony was held at LIMEHOF’s museum location in Stony Brook at 97 Main Street. The event featured three musical performances by current and former students, live and video recorded speeches from colleagues and students, a video presentation about Knapp’s career and a special citation presentation by New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio. 

“The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame is thrilled to honor Craig Knapp with the ‘Educator of Note’ Award and to recognize his extraordinary dedication, innovation, and profound impact on countless students and on music education in our community,” said LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham, who manages LIMEHOF’s education programs. 

“I am absolutely honored to be inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame as the 2024 recipient of their ‘Educator of Note,’ said Knapp. “To be included on the list of past honorees—many of whom I have worked with collaboratively in a variety of music education organizations, committees, conferences, and initiatives—is both gratifying and humbling. I am very proud that I carved out a successful career in a rather unconventional and unique way.” 

The event was emceed by LIMEHOF Educational Committee Member Mike Rodgers who is also director of music and performing arts in the Plainview-Old Bethpage School District. Live speakers included Music Department Chair from Rocky Point School District Amy Schecher, 5th Grade Student Emma Wurm, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York (MYO) Dr. Anthea Jackson, New York State Assemblywomen Jodi Giglio. There were also recorded messages from colleagues including MYO Concert Choir Director Dr. Doreen Fryling.  

“I thought today’s event was absolutely beautiful particularly the students were the highlight of it,” said Rodgers. “Not only to see the work that was done but the reflection from the students themselves.” 

Current and former students honored Knapp with special musical performances. Rocky Point Students Serena Carley and Olna Carley, MYO Treble Choir students Nate Drinkwater and Andrew Nagle. Former student now Deer Park Music Teacher Grace Donofrio sang Georges Bizet’s Carmen accompanied by pianist Sara Ruggerio. 

“Mr. Knapp is one of the most inspiring people and most deserving people of this kind of award,” said Donofrio. “He inspires me to be a music teacher, and I hope that I can be half of him one day as I learn and grow and continue in my career.” 

Former student Julia Brandow traveled in from out of town, driving for over five hours to honor Knapp. 

“Once he told me this was happening, I had to come… it was like no question, Brandow said. “He has done so much for us. The least I could do was be here today for him. Music is the biggest thing in my life and he 100% is the foundation for that.”

Music Teacher Desiree DeMelfi (herself a 2019 LIMEHOF Scholarship recipient) also spoke. She had nominated Craig and was mentored by him when she started her music teaching career. 

“Craig has always wanted me to be the best music teacher and course director I could be,” said DeMelfi. “The impact of a true educator and mentor is evident from my story alone. Craig saw an opportunity to guide a young student from the same town he grew up in. He acted as a leader and decided to give me the best student teaching experience possible.” 

 With an impressive career that spans 27 years on Long Island, Craig Knapp is the 18th music teacher to be recognized by LIMEHOF since the ‘Educator of Note’ Award was established in 2007. This award recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate a commitment to music education, play an active role in the community, and have a significant influence on the lives of music students of all backgrounds and abilities. 

Craig Knapp is the director of the Nassau and Suffolk Treble Choirs of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York, Elementary Classroom Music Specialist and Choral Director in the Rocky Point Public School District, former Adjunct Assistant Professor at Hofstra University, former Director of the Early Childhood Community Music Program at Stony Brook University, music educator, guest conductor, clinician, folk dance leader and author. He says of all his accomplishments, the most significant honor to him is the lasting influence he has had on his students. 

“I have the luckiest job in the world as I get to wake up every Monday morning and make music with incredible children,” Knapp said. “Of all that I have achieved—more important than any accolades I could receive, books I could publish, guest conducting opportunities I could receive, invitations to present at professional development conferences, or performances I direct—my greatest accomplishment, and what I’m most proud of, is that students still come to visit me decades later to tell me that I was their favorite teacher and to thank me for the positive impact I had on their life. What could be better than that?”

For more information about the LIMEHOF ‘Educator of Note’ Award, visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/educator-of-note/

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Craig Knapp Photo courtesy of LIMEHOF
Presentation event on Feb. 1 to honor music teacher Craig Knapp

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEOHF) recently announced Rocky Point Elementary Music Teacher and Department Chairperson Craig Knapp as its 2024 ‘Educator of Note’ winner. 

“The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame is thrilled to honor Craig Knapp with the ‘Educator of Note’ Award and to recognize his extraordinary dedication, innovation, and profound impact on countless students and on music education in our community,” said LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham, who manages LIMEHOF’s education programs.

With an impressive career that spans 27 years on Long Island, Knapp is the 18th music teacher to be recognized by LIMEHOF since the ‘Educator of Note’ Award was established in 2007. This award recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate a commitment to music education, play an active role in the community, and have a significant influence on the lives of music students of all backgrounds and abilities.

“I am absolutely honored to be inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame as the 2024 recipient of their ‘Educator of Note,’” said Knapp. “To be included on the list of past honorees—many of whom I have worked with collaboratively in a variety of music education organizations, committees, conferences, and initiatives—is both gratifying and humbling. I am very proud that I carved out a successful career in a rather unconventional and unique way.”

Knapp is the director of the Nassau and Suffolk Treble Choirs of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York, Elementary Classroom Music Specialist and Choral Director in the Rocky Point Public School District, former Adjunct Assistant Professor at Hofstra University, former Director of the Early Childhood Community Music Program at Stony Brook University, music educator, guest conductor, clinician, folk dance leader and author. He says of all his accomplishments, the most significant honor to him is the lasting influence he has had on his students.

“I have the luckiest job in the world as I get to wake up every Monday morning and make music with incredible children,” Knapp said. “Of all that I have achieved—more important than any accolades I could receive, books I could publish, guest conducting opportunities I could receive, invitations to present at professional development conferences, or performances I direct—my greatest accomplishment, and what I’m most proud of, is that students still come to visit me decades later to tell me that I was their favorite teacher and to thank me for the positive impact I had on their life. What could be better than that?”

Knapp will accept the award at a special presentation ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 1st at the LIMEHOF, 97 Main St., Stony Brook at 2 p.m. The event will feature a performance and visual presentation. The public is invited to attend. Tickets are $29.50 per person at www.limusichalloffame.org and at the door. 

For more information, please call 631-689-5888.

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The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) will induct legendary hip-hop artists Davy DMX (Run-DMC, Kurtis Blow, The Fat Boys), DJ Hurricane (The Beastie Boys) and DJ Jazzy Jay (Def Jam) on August 24 at 7:30 pm at their Stony Brook museum location, 97 Main Street, Stony Brook. The event is free but registration is required.

The three are planning to perform and will be joined by LIMEHOF inductee DJ Johnny Juice (Public Enemy) who will also be performing. Hip Hop Legend and LIMEHOF inductee Kurtis Blow will also be making a special appearance to induct Davy DMX.

“The induction of DJ Hurricane, Davy DMX, and DJ Jazzy Jay into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame highlights the importance of DJs in hip hop’s early days,” said LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham. “These pioneers transformed the art of DJing, making it a central element of the genre and influencing countless artists. Their legacy is a vital part of hip hop’s story, and we are proud to honor them.”

LIMEHOF recognizes artists from geographic Long Island which includes Queens and Brooklyn, in addition to Nassau and Suffolk Counties. This induction ceremony and performance will celebrate the monumental contributions of these legendary artists to the genre of hip hop. They will join an impressive line-up of hip-hop performers already inducted including LL COOL J, Public Enemy, EPMD, Run-DMC, Kurtis Blow, Eric B. & Rakim, The Fat Boys, Salt-n-Pepa and Whodini.

To register,  please visit https://www.limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/

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