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WMHO announces return of Pop-Up Saturdays for the summer

by Press Release - July 8, 2024

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Stony-Brook-pop-up1_serena-carpino9 — Sweetbriar Nature Center heads to Stony Brook Village for a Pop-Up Saturday event on July 13. File photo by Serena Carpino

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced the return of Pop–Up Saturdays in Stony Brook Village! This six-part series of family-friendly events will take place every Saturday from July 13 to August 17, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Filled with animals, music, art, and magic, these events promise fun for all ages and will be held rain or shine. Pop–Up Saturdays are free to the public and will be located in Stony Brook Village’s Inner Court, near Crazy Beans and the Waterfall Garden.

2024 Pop–Up Saturdays Lineup:

• July 13: Sweet Briar Nature Center – Enjoy interacting with a variety of animals.

• July 20: Johnny Cuomo “Tales & Tunes” & the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF)– Johnny Cuomo is a musician and storyteller. ARF will be hosting an adoption event from 11am – 2pm.

• July 27: Pixie Dust Storytellers – Delight in entertainment from fairytale characters.

• August 3: Magic of Amore – Be amazed by a captivating magician show.

• August 12: Caricatures by Marty – Receive a free caricature drawing from a professional artist.

• August 17: Uncle Tony’s Reptile Shack – An interactive, fun, and educational presentation featuring snakes, lizards, tortoises, and more.

Sponsors: The 2024 Pop–Up Saturdays are generously sponsored by Apple Bank, Armor Pest Control, and NY Life Insurance.

Join WMHO for a summer filled with interactive and engaging activities for the whole family. For more information, visit wmho.org or contact 631-751-2244.

‘Driving the Green Book’ wins Best Documentary at The People’s Film Festival

by Press Release - June 13, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has revealed that the documentary Driving the Green Book, which features the historic Three Village Inn in Stony Brook, has won ‘Best Documentary’ at The People’s Film Festival in Harlem. The announcement was made in a press release on June 11.

On February 18, 2022, WMHO had the distinct pleasure of hosting filmmakers Saro Varjabedian, Mike De Caro, and Alvin Hall at the Three Village Inn. They discussed the Inn’s mention in the Green Book, an annual guidebook for African American travelers during segregation, highlighting safe and welcoming establishments across the nation.

In Driving the Green Book, WMHO President Gloria Rocchio explores the connection between the Green Book and the Three Village Inn, which was owned by philanthropist and businessman Ward Melville. She also delves into the history of the Dogwood Hollow Music Festivals in Stony Brook, which featured legendary African-American performers such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie from 1955 to 1970.

“WMHO is honored to have contributed to a project that sheds light on an important part of American history,” read the release.

Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Summer Soirée set for June 27

by Press Release - May 8, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced the Summer Soirée fundraising gala will return with a cocktail hour, dinner and silent and live auction at 6 p.m. on June 27 at the historic Three Village Inn in Stony Brook. The primary purpose of the fundraising is to support the ongoing restoration of the beloved Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751). Any additional funds raised will support WMHO education programs and invasive species projects sponsored by WMHO.

This year’s event will be honoring three exceptional individuals who are WMHO supporters and community leaders: Charlie Lefkowitz, Barbara Damianos and the Damianos Family, and Michele Miller.

Charlie Lefkowitz is Chairman of the Suffolk County Water Authority, President of the Three Village Chamber of Commerce and President of CALCO Development and Louis Lefkowitz Realty Inc. Despite this hectic work life, he remains very involved in community endeavors. He resides in Setauket with his family.

Barbara Damianos raised her five children in Head of the Harbor and now resides in Port Jefferson. She is known for her international charity work that has taken her to countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador, Ukraine, Peru, and Russia. The highlight of Barbara Damianos’s professional life was the establishment of her family’s wineries. The Damianos Family collectively runs three vineyards: Pindar Vineyards, Duck Walk Vineyards, and Jason’s Vineyard.

Michele Miller is an Educator at Selden Middle School. She has been integral to the success of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s (WMHO) Youth Corps. Her daughter Leslie, an attorney who worked for the Bloomberg Administration and now works for a non-profit, was one of its first members. The Youth Corps is now celebrating its 25th anniversary. Michele resides in Setauket.

“These honorees were selected because of their good works in the Long Island community and beyond”, said Dr. Richard Rugen, Chairman of WMHO.

For tickets and sponsorship information for the Summer Soirée, visit www.wmho.org or call 631-751-2244.

Community blood drive heads to Stony Brook Village Center May 4

by Heidi Sutton - May 2, 2024

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Responding to the critical National need for both blood donors and firefighter volunteers, The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO), will be hosting a blood drive, a Shed the Meds event, and a volunteer firefighter recruitment information table at the LIMEHOF, 197 Main St., Stony Brook Village on Saturday, May 4 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Joined by State Senator Palumbo, Assemblyman Ed Flood, LIMEHOF and WMHO:

– The New York Blood Center mobile blood collection van will be collecting donations. (Reservations recommended, walk-ins welcome. Call 1-800-933-2566 to make your reservation.) The first 10 student donors will receive a ticket to The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of
Fame (LIMEHOF), courtesy of Stony Brook University.

– Firefighters from the Stony Brook, Centereach, Terryville, and, Stony Brook University Campus will be hosting an information table.

-The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Deputies will be collecting pharmaceuticals.

-Stony Brook University students will be conducting a mental health research survey.

-The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) will be hosting a raffle!

Questions? Call 631-751-2244.

Families flock to Spring Appreciation Day at Stony Brook Village Center

by Press Release - April 24, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) celebrated their Annual Spring Appreciation Day on Saturday, April 20, drawing families together to celebrate Spring’s arrival.

Held at Stony Brook Village Center, the event offered an array of activities. Highlights included a car show presented by the Mustang and Shelby Club of Long Island, representing over 60 Mustangs to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Mustang, an antique firetruck provided by the Stony Brook Fire Department, a petting zoo for children to enjoy, live music performances, a free scavenger hunt, and educational tours of the historic Stony Brook Grist Mill.

This event was sponsored by News 12 Long Island, Long Island Speech, New York Life Insurance Company Agent Ryan D. DeCicco, RJG Consulting Group and First National Bank of LI.

Spring Appreciation Day returns to the Stony Brook Village Center April 20

by Press Release - April 15, 2024

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0-3 — The event will feature a car show. Photo from WMHO

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Spring Appreciation Day returns to the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main Street, Stony Brook on April 20 with live music, a car show, a petting zoo, the fire department will be on site, and a scavenger hunt with prizes from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. Throughout Stony Brook Village there will be something for everyone:

The day includes

History: The Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751) will be open for tours ($10 for adults, $5 for children, cash only) from noon to 4 p.m. and shopping in the Country Store. The history of the Grist Mill tour showcases highlights from WMHO’s brandnew program. It interprets the mill as both a place of mechanical ingenuity as well as a site of historic social networking from the early colonial period through the mid-20th century. A live Gypsy Romani music performance will take place from 1:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m. in honor of the 19th century Miller, Alois Kopriva.

Technology: The Mustang and Shelby Club of Long Island car show will take place between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and will be located in the parking lot behind the Post Office. They will display over 65 cars with classic Mustangs and the latest cars that Ford has to offer. Automobiles from 1964 – 2023 will be on display, including some special edition Mustangs like the classic Shelby GT500, GT350 and the iconic Boss 302.

Nature: Steppin’ Out Petting Zoo will be set up in the Inner Court with a variety of animals for children to pet from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

The event will feature live music by Brenda and Burke. Photo from WMHO

Music: Brenda and Burke will be performing original and cover songs in the genres of R&B, Roots, Blues and Contemporary Acoustic in the inner court by the waterfall from 1:30 p.m. till 3:30 p.m.

And Discovery: The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO)’s Youth Corps will be offering a scavenger hunt around Stony Brook Village from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Each person who returns a completed scavenger hunt will be entered into a raffle to win Discovery Wetlands Cruise tickets.

Lastly, the Stony Brook Fire Department will be sharing how you can join as a volunteer, and they will have a vintage firetruck on display during the event.

Spring Appreciation Day is sponsored by News 12, Long Island Speech, First National Bank of Long Island, RJG Consulting Group, and NYLife Insurance Company Agent, Ryan D. DeCicco.

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation founded in 1939 by businessman and philanthropist Ward Melville. Inspired by his legacy to preserve historic and environmentally sensitive properties, the WMHO continues to protect and interpret these Long Island treasures. The organization creates interdisciplinary educational and cultural experiences that integrate history, art, theater, music, science, and technology for all ages. The organization owns and manages properties deeded to it by Ward Melville, including the Brewster House (c. 1665), the Thompson House (c. 1705), the Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751), which are listed on the state and national register for historic places, the Dr. Erwin Ernst Marine Conservation Center, the pristine 88-acre wetlands preserve at West Meadow, the 11-acre T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond and adjacent park, two-acre Upper Pond, and the two-acre Jennie Melville Village Green. To learn more about the WMHO, visit www.wmho.org or call (631)-751-2244.

WMHO unveils ‘Beyond the Plaque’ – A self-guided audio experience

by Press Release - March 14, 2024

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The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) recently unveiled a new self-guided audio experience at T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park in Stony Brook Village. Titled “Beyond the Plaque,” this new audio experience gives participants the opportunity to learn about the people named on 16 plaques at the picturesque park. As they wander through the tranquil pathways, they’ll discover more than just names and dates — they’ll delve into the compelling stories and extraordinary journeys of the individuals commemorated on the plaques.

Many of the plaques are dedicated to members past and present of the Stony Brook community, each leaving a lasting impact on those they touched in their lives. Among the notable individuals you can learn about is T. Bayles Minuse, the very namesake of the park.

“Our idea of creating an audio experience dedicated to the people beyond the plaques originated two years ago during the unveiling of the newly rehabilitated T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park,” said Dr. Richard Rugen, WMHO Chairman. “We are thrilled to unveil this to the public, just in time for spring.”

The Beyond the Plaque Audio Experience is offered completely FREE of charge, and accessible to all, anytime, and anywhere. To embark on this captivating tour, individuals can simply scan the QR codes located on informational signs within the park or visit audio.stonybrookvillage.com.

To learn more about events and activities in Stony Brook Village Center, please visit stonybrookvillage.com.

Stony Brook Village kicks off season with WMHO’s 44th annual Holiday Festival

by Rita J. Egan - December 7, 2023

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By Rita J. Egan

Wet weather couldn’t stop Santa Claus from visiting Stony Brook Village Center as promised Dec. 3.

Santa’s appearance was part of the 44th annual Ward Melville Heritage Organization Holiday Festival. In addition to photos with the jolly elf, attendees spent the afternoon visiting with animals at the petting zoo and viewing the promenade of trees decked out for the holidays and the train display at W.L. Wiggs Opticians. Carolers also performed throughout the shopping center.

“Despite the weather, hundreds of people came out to see Santa arrive in Stony Brook on the antique fire engine for the 44th time,” said Gloria Rocchio, WMHO president. “What was added this year was a Grinch character to complement Santa, which the children loved. People noted the tree looked fuller than usual and was decorated beautifully. Hundreds tuned into the tree lighting in person and also remotely on our website.”

WMHO trustees and elected officials were on hand for the center’s tree lighting later in the day, followed by a private reception at the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame. Santa showed up once again, telling guests he was surprised that not one child asked for a Barbie doll. He added the popular gift request this year was a Taylor Swift-branded acoustic guitar.

WMHO Holiday Tree Competition returns to Stony Brook Village Center

by Press Release - November 9, 2023

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Processed with VSCO with e2 preset — Photo courtesy of WMHO

Above, one of the entries from last year’s competition. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

On December 3, participants of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s (WMHO) Holiday Tree Competition will bring holiday cheer to Stony Brook Village and decorate 40 premium 5 to 6 foot balsam trees that will line the open-air center’s walkways at the 44th Annual Holiday Festival. One tree will be selected by votes from the public between Dec. 3 and Dec. 19 to win a $150 gift certificate to Stony Brook Village and its establishments.

Registration for this event is required as there are only 40 trees available. You can pick up a registration form at any of the shops in Stony Brook Village, or you can download it digitally from the events section of the Stony Brook Village Center website.

To enter this competition, please return the completed registration form, with entry fee to the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, P.O. Box 572, Stony Brook, NY 11790. Registration form and an entry fee of $47 is due by Nov. 22. The decorated trees will remain in the village for viewing until Jan. 3.

Questions? Call 631-751-2244.

Ribbon cuttings held for 3 new businesses at Stony Brook Village Center

by Press Release - November 5, 2023

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3-IMG_7212 — Ribbon cutting for D.K. Brothers. Photo from WMHO

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies for three Stony Brook Village Center establishments — D.K. Brothers by Madison’s Niche, Michael Macrina Architect and Village Hair Studio — on Oct. 24.

D.K. Brothers by Madison’s Niche is a boutique offering a curated collection of men’s apparel, lifestyle gifts, and luxury pet accessories by the owners of Madison’s Niche in Stony Brook Village Center. Guests can expect to shop popular men’s clothing brands like Tommy Bahama, UGG, Ralph Lauren, Levi’s and many more. Plus, they have a wide selection of products for a man’s best friend with a section of the store dedicated to pet products like special outfits, accessories, toys, bowls, beds, treats, and more.

In 2012, Karen McAvoy established Madison’s Niche, drawing inspiration from and naming it after her daughter, Madison. Her daughter Madison has recently joined the business as Vice President. Alike Madison’s Niche, D.K. Brothers takes its concept and name from Karen’s sons, Daniel and Kenneth.

D.K. Brothers is located at 97K Main Street in Stony Brook Village. They are open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 631-779-6457.

Michael Macrina Architect (MMA) has moved their office into the heart of Stony Brook Village. MMA was previously located at the corner of 25A and Main Street for the past 11 years. Established in 2006, MMA has been in business for 17 years and handles all permits required for construction and renovation. They offer interior & exterior renovations, residential architecture, exterior facelifts, new additions, new homes and more. To learn more about Michael Macrina Architect, call 631-686-6585 or visit www.mmarchitectaia.com.

Ribbon cutting for Village Hair Studio. Photo from WMHO

Village Hair Studio is a hair salon designed to create a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere for any client. They are currently offering haircuts, hair coloring, hair smoothing treatments, make-up services and bridal services. In addition, they offer massages and facials to enhance the beauty and relaxation experience. The salon will soon provide special hair and makeup services for those experiencing hair loss from diseases like alopecia or cancer.

The Village Hair Studio is located at 97D Main Street in Stony Brook Village. They are open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To make an appointment call 631-675-0987 or visit https://www.villagehairstudiony.com/.

The ribbon cuttings were attended by Michael Ardolino, Assistant Secretary, Three Village Chamber of Commerce (3VC); Carmine Inserra, Vice President, 3VC; Ed Flood, NYS Assemblyman; Robert Fonti, representing Suffolk County Executive, Steve Bellone; Madison McAvoy, Vice President of Madison’s Niche; Karen McAvoy, Proprietor of Madison’s Niche and D.K. Brothers; Ed Romaine, Town of Brookhaven Supervisor; Gloria Rocchio, President, The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO); Dr. Richard Rugen, Chairman, WMHO; Jonathan Kornreich, Councilman, Town of Brookhaven; Alexander Piccirillo, representing Senator Anthony Palumbo; Martha Stansbury, Treasurer, 3VC; Ken Kroncke, Board Member, 3VC; Mary Van Tuyl, Trustee, WMHO; Charles Napoli, Trustee, WMHO; Emily McAvoy; Daniel McAvoy; Kenneth McAvoy; Kenneth McAvoy Jr.; Chuck Lohmann, Trustee, WMHO; Daniel J. Panico, Deputy Supervisor and Councilman, Town of Brookhaven; Charlie Lefkowitz, President, 3VC; Collette Frey-Bitzas, 2nd Vice President, 3VC; and Thomas McLaughlin, representing Senator Mario Mattera.

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