Smithtown elected officials, town employees and Smithtown Administrators Guild fulfill holiday wishes for local families in need

by Press Release - December 23, 2024

0 670

1 of 2

Town of Smithtown officials and employees have once again united to bring joy to local families in need this holiday season. Continuing an annual tradition, the team organized and delivered wish list items to the Smithtown Children’s Foundation to support families enduring hardship. Many Town employees participated as individuals or on behalf of their families, contributing toys, clothing, and other wish list items. The Smithtown Administrators Guild also made a generous monetary donation to support the effort while individually purchasing gifts to fulfill additional needs.

“Knowing that no child in Smithtown will wake up on Christmas morning without experiencing the magic of this season is my most prized gift this year… The team here at the Town of Smithtown are some of the finest, most kind-hearted individuals I’ve had the privilege of serving with. They consider service to the public a calling, and witnessing this great offering of compassion every year really takes my breath away. I have never been so proud to serve with so many admirable individuals. Together, we consider the people of Smithtown family, and we always take care of our family,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.

The Smithtown Children’s Foundation works year-round to provide support to less fortunate children, transient families, and those coping with loss or terminal illness. The foundation collaborates confidentially with school social workers and directly with families to ensure their needs are met. Each year, the Town partners with the foundation to make anonymous donations during the holiday season and to supply school necessities for local children throughout the year.

Since its inception in 2008, the Smithtown Children’s Foundation has collaborated with schools, sports teams, businesses, and similar organizations to provide assistance and comfort to children and families facing terminal illnesses, tragic circumstances, or profound loss. This collective effort ensures that no child or family is left to face hardship alone, reinforcing the unwavering spirit of community in Smithtown.

Residents wishing to give back to a great foundation or learn more can visit: www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com

Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board hosts successful sensory-friendly movie night for local families

by Press Release - December 23, 2024

0 553

1 of 7

The Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board hosted a sensory-friendly movie night on December 14, providing an inclusive and welcoming experience for over 100 Smithtown residents. Designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, the event featured a screening of Moana 2 in a relaxed and accommodating environment.

“The success of our sensory-friendly movie night speaks to the importance of fostering events that create opportunities for all residents to feel welcome and comfortable … This is just the beginning, and we look forward to hosting more events that bring families and the community together,” said Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo.

Attendees enjoyed the movie with lowered sound, adjusted lighting, and on-screen captions, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. Each participant enjoyed popcorn, beverage, and a sensory bag filled with tactile and fidget items to encourage sensory stimulation, focus, and relaxation.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with families expressing gratitude for the inclusive event and excitement for future programming. Attendees asked about planning a future event. The common sentiment shared by participants, reflects the success and importance of such community-centered initiatives.

The Disability Advisory Board members, who were present to welcome families and ensure a smooth event, were thrilled to see the joy and engagement of residents. The Board’s mission is to promote inclusion, accessibility, and a supportive environment for all individuals throughout the Town of Smithtown.

Disability Advisory Board Members:

Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo
Cynthia Grimley
Lisa Camastro
Alyssa Connell
Alex Rupp
Christopher Peterson
Chris O’Connor
Mary Greco

The Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board remains committed to creating events and programs that prioritize accessibility, awareness, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

For more information on upcoming events or the Disability Advisory Board, please visit the Town of Smithtown’s website or email: [email protected]

Wanted for alleged Selden petit larceny

Police & Fire

by Press Release - December 23, 2024

0 410

1 of 2

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a man who allegedly stole from a Selden store in October.

A man allegedly stole JBL headphones, valued at approximately $150, from Target, located at 307 Independence Plaza, at approximately 1:05 p.m. on October 11 by placing the merchandise in his pants.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

Gurwin Jewish announces winners of 31st annual photo contest

by Press Release - December 22, 2024

0 1438

1 of 34

Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center announced the winners of the 2024 Annual Gurwin Photo Contest, revealing the photos at a wine and cheese reception in Gurwin’s Simon Rainbow Room at the 460-bed skilled nursing facility in Commack on Dec. 9.

Nearly 1,000 submissions are received each year from across the globe by amateur photographers and students, and are judged by a panel of professional photographers for clarity, composition, subject matter and suitability for display at the Center.

This year’s judges, Iris Zaverdas De Vita of Golden Iris, Tony Lopez of Tony Lopez Photography, and Josh Schmidt of The Tiffen Company, chose 34 winning photos.

Grand Prize, Honorable Mentions, as well as a Best-in-Show winners were awarded in 12 categories: Action/ Sports, Altered/Enhanced, Children, Landscapes, Long Island/ New York, Nature, People, Pets, Still Life, Student, Travel, and Wildlife. Gurwin residents and staff also weighed-in on their favorites for “Resident/ Staff Selection” winners.

Best-in-Show went to Regina Matarazzo (Tobyhanna, PA) for her photo “Seagull Under the Pier” and Best-In-Show Runner-Up to Alan Sloyer (Roslyn) for “Millie’s Diner.”

“We are thrilled to celebrate not only the incredible talent of our photo contest winners but also the joyous return of our in-person reception at the Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, marking the first time since the pandemic,” said Stuart B. Almer, President and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System.

“Each year we are so very impressed by the incredible artistry of the participants, many of them perennial supporters of our unique contest. We are pleased to showcase their work, and a grateful for the beauty and inspiration the photos bring to our residents.”

Winning photos are permanently displayed in the Center’s renowned Tiffen Gallery, named in memory of Helen and Nat Tiffen of The Tiffen Company, long-time sponsors of the contest. More than 1,000 photos are showcased throughout the Center for the enjoyment of the community’s 460 long- and short-term residents, staff and visitors.

Photos not selected for a prize award are repurposed as reminiscence aids, for visual stimulation and art therapy, providing a source of comfort and inspiration, for residents throughout the Center, including Gurwin’s Memory Care Unit and Adult Day Care Programs.

“It’s hard for me to fathom that we’ve been hosting this contest for 31 years…at first, it was a way to decorate our newly opened nursing home; today, it’s so much more than that,” said Dennine Cook, Chief Corporate Communications Officer for Gurwin Healthcare System.

“All the selections, whether they be honorable mentions, grand prizes or resident/staff selections, will be judged, discussed and enjoyed by so many appreciative eyes for years to come. That is the real honor – that your photos will hang for decades in our residents’ home,” Cook added.

Global Language Reads in Port Jefferson brings diversity and culture to its bookshelves

by Julianne Mosher - December 22, 2024

0 1921

1 of 7

By Julianne Mosher

Inside Global Language Reads, the maroon-colored walls are home to shelves filled with different books. There are novels varying from classic writers like Charles Dickens to true crime, local authors and historical fiction. There’s a shelf of Oliver Sacks’ best sellers and a room dedicated to solely to children’s books in the back.

It just opened in November, but GLR is already a special oasis that brings the feel of a small, family-owned book shop to Port Jefferson village. But what makes this spot different compared to some other local bookstores is the variety of different languages and cultures they bring to the table. Owner Caterina Lemos Cunha said that many of the books on site are not just sold in English, but are also available in more than a dozen different languages.

Offering a many different services, classes and events, the goal of GLR is to bring readers together through game nights, language classes and debate teams, while creating an environment that welcomes everyone and anyone — no matter what you speak.

With her three children, Cunha was living in Williamsburg, Brooklyn working as a scientist specializing in neuroscience. Using her background in research, she decided to start writing children’s books surrounding different types of science with her (little) free time. Cunha would often interview women scientist, disseminate the information into simpler terms and create a story surrounding that science featuring the main character, Alicia (named after her youngest daughter).

Alicia has more than a dozen stories — she learned about rainbows, fireworks, spiders and mental health, and each book offers a science experiment or recipe that kids can do with their families when they’re done reading. Cunha wanted to break down science and make it easy to digest for kids.

“I try to highlight women because sometimes we get forgotten,” Cunha said. “And then we translate them and publish the stories in other languages.” Out of her 10 books, more than half are written bilingually to cater to people of all backgrounds.

Alicia’s adventures had Cunha writing for years and years with one end goal in mind.

“Our dream was always to have our own store to sell them and also sell other books,” she said. “But I was always very busy with research work.”

Cunha and her family decided to leave the city after her son, Gabriel, was killed last year and move to Port Jefferson.

“We needed a change and we kind of followed our intuition,” she said.

After visiting several empty store fronts, Cunha was introduced to 402 Main Street next door to Theatre Three. A former insurance agent, Cunha repainted the walls her late-sons favorite color and named the shop “Global Language Reads” — the same initials as his name.

“We got into the mindset of wanting to do things now in our life and not wait,” she said.

Since officially opening their doors Nov. 8, Cunha said her favorite thing so far is becoming part of the community. “So far we’ve met so many people and got to learn their stories,” she said. “That’s really the best part.”

Cunha, who was born in Portugal and raised in Germany, wanted to bring a sense of culture to her new store. While stocking the shelves with New York Times bestsellers and typical classics, she wanted to be sure to also showcase authors that other people might not know or who are not well-known in the United States.

And to cater to the rich, diverse local community, she decided to bring in authors and books in not just English but Hindu, Bengali, Arabic, Spanish, Hebrew, Italian, French, German, Russian, Japanese and Mandarin. Her children’s books are also written side-by-side bilingually, too. Some genres that can be found include young adult, nonfiction, independent study, historical fiction and some science-heavy reads.

Cunha added that when she opened up the shop, she wanted to bring in different programming for people of all ages. GLR hosts weekly book clubs, game nights and will bring in local authors to talk about their writing.

“I always liked teaching and when I went into research I preferred it,” she said. “Here, too, I want to get kids excited about this and in a small, independent setting you can just come in, learn and have fun.”

The shop is open daily from noon to 9 p.m. Call 631-314-9080 or visit glrbooks.com for more information.

Kids Make History Cove opens at Northport Historical Society

by Jennifer Donatelli - December 22, 2024

0 538

1 of 11

By Jennifer Donatelli

The Northport Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 15 at the Northport Historical Society to celebrate the grand opening of its new exhibit, Kids Make History Cove.

With a grant from the Suffolk County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, the historical society created the year-round exhibit which is both fun and educational for young history enthusiasts. Interior designer and business member Elizabeth Olivier volunteered her time to help design the exhibit.

Using the museum’s educational collection and vintage items such as Victorian-era clothing, a rotary phone, a typewriter and a scale, curator Liz Abrams incorporated historical artifacts to teach visitors about Northport’s history.

Executive Director Terry Reid said she came up with the idea for Kids Make History Cove as a way to teach children about Northport’s history while having fun playing with old-fashioned toys.

“This is enriching for parents as well,” Reid said, “because they can enjoy the museum while the kids play in the new exhibit.”

Paula Pangen, visiting from Austin, Texas, brought her granddaughter Cecilia “CiCi” Collaro, 2, from East Northport to play in the Kids Cove.

“She loved playing with the rotary phone and typewriter,” Pangen said.

Visitors got a special treat when Santa stopped by to read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” and take photos with children. Older kids also joined in the fun by participating in the Elf Scavenger Hunt which had them roaming the gallery to find hidden elves.

Claire Weissman of Northport brought her son, Miles, to see the new exhibit.

“I told Santa I want a Godzilla for Christmas,” Miles exclaimed as he looked for mini elves throughout the museum.

Reid said the scavenger hunt changes with each season and is another way to engage children while teaching them about history.

“They’re getting comfortable in a museum setting and realizing that museums are fun,” Reid explained. “Kids today are very interactive and we wanted to have low-tech toys that are engaging but also allow them to explore on their own.”

Cary Bianculli, director of marketing at the historical society, said the museum is committed to celebrating Northport’s history with its new Northport Notable feature. Each month, the museum will highlight a local historical figure who helped shape the community paired with a special activity for children.

“This month, we’re thrilled to highlight Henry Scudder, a Revolutionary War spy from Northport who played a crucial role in gathering intelligence during the American Revolution,” Reid said.

In honor of Scudder’s adventurous life, the museum is offering a Crack the Code activity where kids can engage in a hands-on game of deciphering secret codes similar to how Washington’s Culper Spy Ring operated to aid the American cause.

Founded in 1962, the Northport Historical Society and Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Northport and its surrounding communities. The museum, located at 215 Main St., houses permanent and rotating exhibits, educational programs and more than 12,000 documents, photos and artifacts that bring Northport’s history to life for residents and visitors alike.

The next Northport Notable will debut in February, featuring Edna Olmsted, a trailblazer who made history as the first woman to drive a car around the globe.

For more information on the monthly Northport Notables and other events, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

Port Jefferson girl’s basketball falls to Miller Place

by Bill Landon - December 21, 2024

0 736

1 of 16

By Bill Landon

Both the Royals of Port Jefferson and the Miller Place Panthers were deadlocked at 39-39 through three quarters of play in the nonleague matchup on Dec. 14, and the outcome wouldn’t be decided until the final second of the game. Port Jefferson trailing by two points inbounded the ball, but couldn’t get a shot off when the buzzer sounded, falling to the Panthers 53-51.

It was the Panther’s second win of the season, having defeated Wyandanch earlier in the season. Senior Ava Zicchinelli led the way for the Panther, banking 9 field goals a three-pointer and 3 from the free throw line for a team high of 24 points, along with teammate Julie Orenzo, a sophomore who added 21.

Port Jeff senior Matreya Driscoll-Stremich led the way for the Royals with 20 points, and freshman Addison Tuttle notched 13.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Huntington Arts Council holds Long Island Grants for the Arts award ceremony

by Press Release - December 21, 2024

0 647

1 of 9

The Huntington Arts Council (HAC) celebrated the 2025 recipients of their Long Island Grants for the Arts Program with an award ceremony on December 16 at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington.

The evening was well attended with over 90 people which included artists, arts organizations, friends, family and local elected officials. 40 Artist Fellowship Grants were awarded and 20 GOS totaling $358,000 in granted funds. (See the list below) Huntington Arts Council’s Long Island Grants for the Arts Program is the first to administer an Artist Fellowship Grant on Long Island.

“HAC continues to provide critical support to Long Island’s creative sector through the Long Island Grants for the Arts Program.” Said Executive Director, Kieran Johnson.

“Monday evening was a testament to the dedication of the leadership and staff’s work to support the arts and culture communities across Long Island. It has been, and continues to be, HAC’s goal to nurture the growth of artists and cultural organizations who provide increased access to culture and creativity. We are looking forward to the remarkable work that will be created through these grants. HAC is grateful to State and Local officials for providing fiscal resources to grow this program. Thank you to Assemblyman Steve Stern, Assemblyman Keith P. Brown and Town Councilman Dr. Dave Bennardo for attending our event and their words of support,” he said.

The Artist Fellowship Grant prioritizes funding individual artists to support, expand and grow their artistic practice. The Artist Fellowship is a $5,000 grant for individual artists working in all disciplines.

The General Operating Support Grant seeks to provide an impact on strengthening smaller, community-based arts and culture organizations. General Operating Support Grant is for arts and cultural organizations with a fiscal year budget of $400,000 or less. Funds are awarded at $7,000 or $10,000.

“The arts and culture sector on Long Island spans the length and width of the island. It lives in all of the community bands, orchestras, arts councils, theater groups, museums, and artists of all disciplines. They work hard, wherever they can, to create art, music, theater, film and more to share with their communities. I am proud to be part of an organization that supports and advocates for all the artists and organizations providing arts experiences for everyone on Long Island.” Said Patty Eljaiek, Grants Coordinator

Long Island Grants for the Arts are made possible through funding from the NY State Legislature and the office of the Governor of New York. Our ongoing grant opportunities, Artist Fellowship General Operating Support and Community Impact Micro Grants, have been tailored to meet the expressed needs of individual artists and non-profit arts organizations throughout Nassau and Suffolk.

Congratulations to all of the 2025 Long Island Grants for the Arts Awardees.

2025 Artist Fellows

Nassau County

Alicia Evans

Brooke Di Spirito

Donald Vega

Jaishri Abichandani

Jared Long

Michael Shapira

Paul Anagnostopoulos

Suffolk County

Brianna Hernandez

Brianna Sander

Christina Lee Stow

Christine Baum

Christine Donnelly

Constance Maria Wolf

Dana Parsons

Edward Acosta

Emma Pinezich

Gabriella Grama

Galina Carroll

Jessica Payes

John Testa

Karen Michel

Lauren Gotard

Luanda Lozano

Lydia Rivera

Margarita Espada

María Spector

Mark D. Nikirk

Mary Elizabeth Benedetto

Melanie Diane Berardicelli

Melissa Dennihy

Michael Celentano

Michael Krasowitz

Michelle LaPorte

Moriah Ray-Britt

Oksana Danziger

Ron Becker

Salvatore Santiago

Sarah Gross

Segundo Orellana

Sherry Davis

General Operating Support Grantees

Nassau County

Dance Visions NY, In

eVoco Voice Collective

Friends of North Shore Symphony Orchestra

The Art Guild of Port Washington

The Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra, Inc.

Westbury Arts, Inc.

Suffolk County

Arts Center at Duck Creek, Inc

Arts Project of Cherry Grove, New York Inc

Bay Area Friends of the Fine Arts

Bay Shore Schools Arts Education Fund (BSSAEF)

Eastline Players Corp

Hamptons Doc Fest

Island Symphony Orchestra

Long Island Orchestra, Inc.

Rites of Spring Music Festival, Inc.

Smithtown Community Band

Stage the Change, Inc

Teatro Experimental Yerbabruja Inc.

The Jam Session, Inc.

The Victor D’Amico Institute of Art

For more information on our Long Island Grants for the Arts Program go to www.huntingtonarts.org

Photo Gallery: Comsewogue High School hosts 6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair

by Bill Landon - December 20, 2024

0 592

1 of 23

By Bill Landon

It was the 6^th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School, Saturday, Dec. 14. The event featured over 50 vendors, student club fundraisers and an opportunity to take a picture with Santa Claus.

— Photos by Bill Landon

Lynch Ballet Company captivates audiences with dynamic performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

by Jennifer Donatelli - December 20, 2024

0 610

1 of 6

By Jennifer Donatelli

For many, “The Nutcracker” has become a cherished holiday tradition, and the renowned Lynch Ballet Company’s Dec. 14 performance at Huntington High School was no exception. This annual production has become a highlight of the local holiday calendar, bringing families and ballet enthusiasts together to celebrate the season with artistry and joy.

Directed by Artistic Director Karen Lynch, the production featured dancers ranging in age from 4 to 18, whose skill and dedication were evident throughout the performance. Combining detailed choreography, impressive set designs and elaborate costumes, the Lynch Ballet Company delivered a memorable experience that perfectly captured the holiday spirit.

The story of The Nutcracker follows Clara, a young girl whose nutcracker toy comes to life, leading her on a fantastical journey through magical lands filled with living toys and sugarplum fairies. While the narrative has charmed audiences for more than a century, the Lynch Ballet Company brought fresh energy to this timeless tale, grounding it in Huntington’s festive celebrations.

Seventh grader Annabelle Donovan, a student at Finley Middle School, stood out in her first major role as Clara. Her performance highlighted both the innocence and wonder of the character, showcasing Clara’s transformation into the heroine of her own story. “No matter what kind of day I had at school, I know I can come to the studio and just focus on dance. Dancing is my therapy. It makes me forget about everything else going on around me and just makes me so happy,” Donovan said.

Donovan, who has been dancing since age 3, trains three hours a day and says she wouldn’t have it any other way. Her parents, Kelly and David, also joined the production as Party Mom and Party Dad, sharing the stage with their daughter. Kelly Donovan expressed her pride, saying, “She’s worked really hard for many years, and it’s the only thing she does that allows her to express her emotions and identity through dance.”

Artistic Director Karen Lynch highlighted the unique challenges of casting such a pivotal role: “You have to look like a little girl but be old enough to carry the show since the first scene is 20 minutes, and Annie does just that.”

The role of the Nutcracker Prince was played by Jaden Scott, whose performance brought both poise and warmth to the stage, complementing Donovan’s Clara. The lively party scene characters, young mice, Russian dancers and Snowflakes contributed to the production’s energy and appeal.

Senior Julianne Tudisco, who danced the lead role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, was another standout performer. A seasoned dancer since the age of 4, Tudisco has grown up with the Lynch Ballet Company, dancing roles ranging from a mouse to the Snow Queen. “Dancing is a great escape, and I love the music and gracefulness of ballet when I come to the studio,” she said. As she prepares for college, Tudisco says ballet will always be a part of her life.

The production’s artistry extended beyond the dancers to its visually rich sets and costumes. Costume Mistress Madeleine Hindus, a former designer for American Ballet Theatre, brought period-inspired detail to the stage with her meticulously crafted costumes. From Clara’s flowing white dress to the bold, colorful attire of the Russian, Arabian and Chinese dancers, every costume added depth to the storytelling and enhanced the festive atmosphere.

The sets, too, were thoughtfully designed, transporting the audience from Clara’s cozy home to the magical Land of Sweets and the snow-covered kingdom. The growing Christmas tree during the opening party scene drew audible gasps, while the life-sized Nutcracker doll created an eye-catching visual.

For Huntington, this production of “The Nutcracker” is more than just a ballet—it’s a community tradition. Each year, the performance draws local families, friends and longtime ballet enthusiasts together to celebrate the holiday season. The Lynch Ballet Company’s focus on showcasing young talent from the area makes it a point of pride for the town.

As the final curtain fell and the dancers took their bows, the audience’s enthusiastic applause reflected the joy and wonder the production brought to the community. The performance served as a reminder of the power of art to unite people and celebrate the magic of the holiday season.

For more information on the Lynch Ballet Company visit www.lynchballet.com.

Prev 1...333435...369 Next

Page 34 of 369

Archives

Smithtown elected officials, town employees and Smithtown Administrators Guild fulfill holiday wishes for local families in need

Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board hosts successful sensory-friendly movie night for local families

Wanted for alleged Selden petit larceny

Gurwin Jewish announces winners of 31st annual photo contest

Global Language Reads in Port Jefferson brings diversity and culture to its bookshelves

Kids Make History Cove opens at Northport Historical Society

Port Jefferson girl’s basketball falls to Miller Place

Huntington Arts Council holds Long Island Grants for the Arts award ceremony

2025 Artist Fellows

Photo Gallery: Comsewogue High School hosts 6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair

Lynch Ballet Company captivates audiences with dynamic performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

Most Viewed

Lake Grove man arrested for alleged DWI under Leandra’s Law

Two kayakers rescued from waters off Kings Park

St. Catherine of Siena Hospital celebrates 10-year anniversary offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy