Regional Updates

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Closing Words

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“Overnight the DOT implemented a major change to the road that we have talked about for months. To see the drawings we have been looking at for so long transform into reality is an awesome thing. As I look at the new road I can’t help but remember the precious lives lost that inspire many of us every day to make a difference. This is a major milestone in the journey to a better Smithtown. Many people are involved, but the DOT should ultimately be commended for implementing the previous measures and especially this very important long term solution.” - Lavena Sipes, mother of Courtney Sipes, who was struck and killed on Main Street in Smithtown

“This morning the trucks were putting the final stripes down on the road for the new configuration. The DOT has taken the first step towards makes Route 25 / 25A (Main Street) a safer environment for drivers and pedestrians. A lot more needs to be done, but I feel we are finally moving in a positive direction that will save lives and put Smithtown’s main street back on track to becoming an area that we all are proud of.” - Mark Mancini, president of the Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce, speaking on the new construction on Main Street in Smithtown

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We are pleased to announce the honoree for this year's

Regional Leadership Award

NYS Regional Economic Development Councils
Lt. Governor Robert Duffy

Master of Ceremonies

John Kominicki
Long Island Business News

This year, we also honor:

Walkability

NYS Complete Streets Law
NYS Senator Charles Fuschillo & Sandi Vega

Community Participation

Huntington Station Enrichment Center
Dolores Thompson

Transportation Choices

Transit Oriented Development Zoning
Hon. Jean Celender, Village of Great Neck Plaza

Clean Energy

EmPower Solar
David Schieren

Housing Choices

Metro 303, Hempstead
Mill Creek Residential Trust

Housing Choices

The River Walk, Patchogue
GRB Development Corp.

Creating Great Places

The Paramount, Huntington

Revitalizing Communities

Farmingdale Hotel & Mixed Use
Bartone Properties & BWC Realty Partners

Certainty & Predicatability

Elmont Mixed-Use Zoning District
Town of Hempstead

Vision Long Island congratulates this year's
Smart Growth Awards winners!

Register today! Sponsorships and journal advertisements are available! Online registration is now available!

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Method of Payment: [ ] Check enclosed [ ] Check sent (faxed replies only) [ ] Pay at the door [ ] Credit Card

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Address: ___________________________________________________City, State, Zip: __________________________________

Email: ________________________________________ Phone: _________________________ Fax: ________________________

Credit Card: [ ] Visa [ ] MasterCard [ ] American Express Name, as it appears on card: ___________________________________

Credit Card Number: ____________________________________________________ Expiration Date: _______________________

Please send questions and RSVPs by phone to 631-261-0242, by email to info@visionlongisland.org or by fax to 631-754-4452.

First round of improvements announced for Hempstead Turnpike

After significant media attention on the most dangerous road for pedestrians in our region, NYS Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald and Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano have announced the first set of improvements that are planned for Hempstead Turnpike.

Improvements will include: repainting crosswalks, increasing signal time for pedestrians, upgrading crossing signals with push buttons, and repairing broken traffic signals. Several of these improvements have been ongoing in the last several months, including 86 intersections which have had pedestrian-crossing time increased. Leading pedestrian intervals, which give pedestrians a head start before the light turns green for cars, have been installed at 52 crosswalks.

During a press conference in Elmont, McDonald said, "We've made significant improvements and we're going to be doing more," and Mangano noted that these improvements represent "a first step, but a giant step.” In addition to the planned changes, the DOT will consider raised medians, fencing along some sidewalks, additional signal timing changes, relocating bus stops to be closer to sidewalks, and adding more pedestrian signals in the future. McDonald hopes to have a “menu” of potential improvements by June. Other options include eliminating some parking along the road and adding up to six red-light cameras. "Cost isn't the issue," McDonald said. "We're funding what needs to happen."

There will also be a “Walk Safe Nassau” public education campaign that will target both pedestrians and drivers with fliers and posters.

Vision Long Island is working with local and regiopnalgroups to improve pedestrian safety on Hempstead turnpike.
Read more at Newsday and News12

NY Youth Works reaches out to Long Island Small Businesses

The Long Island Business Council heard a special presentation from the Department of Labor on this program last week.

The NYS Department of Labor’s NY Youth Works program, developed in 2011, has already demonstrated enormous benefits for Long Island businesses and young people. A showcase was held in Rockville Centre last Friday, where two youth employed by Green Earth Contractors were working to insulate a home. Sergio Vinals and Kaisean Mays are both age 20 and from Hempstead Village.

NY Youth Works targets low-income and high-unemployment areas and seeks to set up youth ages 16-24 with meaningful jobs and job training, while providing tax credits to employers. LI youth who live in the towns of Hempstead and Brookhaven are eligible to apply. Over 64 businesses on LI have signed up to participate to date. Businesses must be located a “reasonable commuting distance” from those two towns, which encompasses most of the Island. Tax credits are as high as $4,000 per year for full-time employees (part-time options are available as well).

Businesses can sign up until November 30th, and can learn more at jobs.ny.gov/youthworks. Youth can apply through December 31st by calling (877) 226-5724 or visiting a One-Stop Career Center in Hauppauge, Hempstead Village, Hicksville, Massapequa or Patchogue.

Big Victory for Smart Growth: Farmingdale Village approves Bartone Plaza

On Monday evening, the Bartone Plaza project was given a 5-0 unanimous approval by the Village of Farmingdale Board. The developer, Anthony Bartone, was thankful and enthusiastic about the success. His hope is to redevelop blighted and underutilized properties and promote walkability in order to return a sense of vibrancy back into downtown Farmingdale. The project is expected to break ground this August.

The project, located in downtown Farmingdale, consists of a three-story mix of apartments and retail space which will take over a vacant warehouse, providing 115 apartments and 17,000 square feet of retail shops, along with an underground parking lot designed to hold 172 vehicles. Across the street, on what is currently a private parking lot, will be an 85-room Home 2 Suites Hilton Hotel. The development will also work as a transit-oriented and pedestrian-friendly property due to its proximity to the LIRR station. Bartone Plaza will also provide a series of amenities, including brick walkways, parking meters (whose revenues will go to the Village), road work, removal and burial of utility poles, trees and landscaping and a pocket park.

Vision Long Island has awarded Bartone Plaza a 2012 Smart Growth Award for “Revitalizing Communities.” Vision Long Island also conducted a visioning process beginning in 2006 that identified the location for redevelopment.
For more press coverage, check out the Farmingdale Patch and Newsday

Vision is quoted and referenced in the above articels and the Newsday editorial, which you can find here.

Smithtown Update: Main Street repairs commence

People driving through Smithtown this week were treated to a new experience, as the first of the Department of Transportation’s road reconfigurations have been implemented. One lane along westbound Main Street has been closed, with new painted medians and left-turn lanes. One of these turn lanes has been added at Lawrence Avenue, the intersection where 11-year old Courtney Sipes was killed in 2009. In addition, traffic signals will turn red in all directions when pedestrians begin to cross, and signals at Lawrence and Maple Avenues will remain red on off-peak hours until sensors see a vehicle approaching. The reconstruction is being hailed by advocates as a good first step:

Lavena Sipes, mother of the deceased Courtney, said “Overnight the DOT implemented a major change to the road that we have talked about for months. To see the drawings we have been looking at for so long transform into reality is an awesome thing. As I look at the new road I can’t help but remember the precious lives lost that inspire many of us every day to make a difference. This is a major milestone in the journey to a better Smithtown. Many people are involved, but the DOT should ultimately be commended for implementing the previous measures and especially this very important long term solution.” She added, “More needs to be done, but it's a step in the right direction, and it's what they can build on to make it safer."

Mark Mancini from the Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce told us, “This morning the trucks were putting the final stripes down on the road for the new configuration. The DOT has taken the first step towards makes Route 25 / 25A (Main Street) a safer environment for drivers and pedestrians. A lot more needs to be done, but I feel we are finally moving in a positive direction that will save lives and put Smithtown’s main street back on track to becoming an area that we all are proud of.”
Read more at Newsday and Fios1

Tri-Hamlet Renaissance Project unveiled for Mastic, Shirley, Moriches

Residents and elected officials from the Mastic, Shirley, Mastic Beach and Moriches area have joined together to announce the Tri-Hamlet Renaissance Project: a joint effort to enhance the quality of life in the Tri-Hamlet area for generations to come. Over 100 residents, participating students and elected officials were on hand on April 29th at William Floyd High School Library to announce the plan, including NYS Senator Lee Zeldin, NYS Assemblymen Fred Thiele, Jr. and Dean Murray, Suffolk County Legislator Kate Browning, Brookhaven Town Councilman Dan Panico and Mastic Beach Village Mayor Bill Biondi. U.S. Congressman Timothy Bishop and State Senator Kenneth Lavalle actively contributed to this effort. Vision also attended the announcement event.

Following initial meetings in the summer of 2011 between elected officials and community leaders, six workgroups were formed covering infrastructure, economic development, real estate, quality of life, public safety and marketing. Each workgroup reached out to members of the community and developed proposals to address local challenges. After an extensive public comment period, a 33-page collaborative report has been released detailing proposed projects that community leaders and government officials have agreed to tackle. Six out of sixteen recommendations are tied to wastewater treatment and infrastructure, which is an ongoing and critical need for the area. 

The report’s recommendations include installing sewer infrastructure for residences and businesses, creating a sewer district or authority, promoting the Sunrise Highway North Service Road as an alternative route to the congested Montauk Highway, constructing a full service marina at the underutilized Smith Point Marina with private investment, new highway signage, beautification initiatives, safety programs and many others. 

Vision Long Island held two visioning processes and resulting land use plans in the area and many of those recommendations are in the new hamlet report.

The full report is available here. 

Elmont Summit covers racetrack; redevelopment

The Elmont Chamber of Commerce hosted its Second Annual Elmont Summit on May 2nd at the Elmont Memorial Library to discuss economic development issues facing the community. Over 100 community members and business owners were in attendance.

Vision’s Eric Alexander was joined on a panel by Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages, Village of Floral Park Mayor Thomas Tweed, David Sabatino of Envision Valley Stream and moderator Muzzio Tallini of the Elmont Chamber of Commerce. The vibrant discussion lasted well into the evening, with topics covering the implementation of mixed-use development in the Town’s new corridor plan, the future of Belmont Park and the partnership of surrounding communities on projects of shared concerns. 

Alexander said that Elmont residents have joined some thirty other communities on Long Island that are ready for change: “You have said ‘we want something different in our land use, in our transportation, in our community services;’ you have embraced the diversity that you have – you are not afraid of it… it strengthens you.”

Attendees were disappointed that the racetrack was not used year-round. Alexander noted that “everyone agrees it is an underutilized asset.” Nearby business owners are calling for economic development. Tallini noted: "Whatever would put more customers through their doors, they will support.” More importantly community members want to be involved in what is being planned for Belmont Racetrack. Mayor Tweedy noted, "we are stakeholders in this and we really need to know what is going on and be part of the planning.”

The panel discussed the Town of Hempstead’s re-zoning of Hempstead Turnpike, which some residents feel does not go far enough to promote mixed-use development. Elmont Online continues that “while the Town did not adopt the [full] mixed-use plan detailed by Vision Long Island, the Chamber agreed with Councilman Ambrosino that the zoning plan passed by the Town Board was just a ‘start’, and pledged to work with him on incorporating some of these other ideas in Phase 2 of the rezoning... ‘I know this is controversial in some settings,’ said Alexander, ‘but the corridor plan that was just approved by the town provides more opportunity than you think. There is a potential Phase 2 that opens the door’ to future possibilities.”

Vision is presenting the Town with a Smart Growth Award for the corridor plan this year.

Photos by Elmont Online.
Read more at Elmont Online and Newsday

Engel Burman plans Transit Oriented Development in Brentwood

The Engel Burman Group has announced plans to build a 240-unit affordable housing development in Brentwood, at the site of a soon-to-be-shuttered horse farm on Suffolk Avenue across from the LIRR station. 

The 17-acre Knoll Farm opened in 1891. The economic recession has caused Pete and Bonnie Mercier to sell the farm they have owned for the past 11 years, though they have expressed hopes of developing the property into something that will work for the community. “The prospect of developing the farm is, in our viewpoint, ideal for the local community," Mr. Mercier said. Of the proximity to the LIRR, he added, "It's a fantastic commute point for young people to help them stay on Long Island."

Dave Genaway, Islip Town Planning Commissioner, noted that the farm is an identifying feature for Brentwood, “yet when you look at the strategic location of this property, its use as a horse farm is kind of underutilizing the potential for the property.”

Vision’s Eric Alexander was quoted in Newsday: "We know there's a market for this type of development...We certainly see it as a very good use of property."

Engel Burman has submitted a change of zone application to the Town of Islip for the property. The development would include one to three bedroom units in 15 two-story garden apartment buildings, along with an outdoor swimming pool, a recreation center and a clubhouse. The town will soon consider what is appropriate for that location.
Read more at Newsday and the New York Times

'Stamp Out Hunger' this weekend

This Saturday, May 12th, is the annual National Association of Letter Carriers' Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Long Island. As hunger continues to rise on Long Island, all Long Islanders are being asked to help feed neighbors in need. This is Long Island’s largest single-day food drive. Last year, volunteers collected and distributed close to 450,000 pounds of food, which supplemented 375,000 meals. Organizers hope to do even better this year!  If half of Long Island left out 1 pound of food, well.. just imagine the difference it could make!

Here’s how you can help: 1) Leave a bag of non-perishable food by your mailbox, for your letter carrier to collect. 2) Volunteer to weigh, sort, and pack this food at the collection site so it can be transported safely to local pantries and other feeding programs. Warehouse space in Brentwood has been graciously donated. Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals and groups on Saturday, May 12; Monday May 13th and Tuesday, May 14th. 3) Let others know of the drive! Pass the message along to EVERYONE in your circle (staff, friends, colleagues, neighbors, congregants, etc.). 4) Drop off food at your local Post Office.

The 2012 Food Drive Community Partners include Island Harvest, the National Association of Letter Carriers, U.S. Postal Service, Feeding America and Long Island Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO.

For information on what to donate and how to volunteer, visit Island Harvest’s website.

Grants available for downtown farmers markets

The US Department of Agriculture has announced a competitive grant that aims to increase the availability of local agricultural products in communities throughout the county. They will also help strengthen farmer-to-consumer marketing efforts. 

The Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) offers grants to help improve and expand domestic farmers’ markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agri-tourism activities and other direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities. Agricultural cooperatives, producer networks, producer associations, local governments, nonprofit corporations, public benefit corporations, economic development corporations, regional farmers’ market authorities and Tribal governments are among those eligible to apply. Approximately $10 million in FMPP grants are available in fiscal year 2012. The maximum amount awarded for any one proposal cannot exceed $100,000. Projects that expand healthy food choices in food deserts or low-income areas (where the percentage of the population living in poverty is 20 percent or above) will receive additional consideration. 

Learn more and access the Notice of Funding Availability here.

NYS Governor's Traffic Safety Committee accepting grant application

The NYS Governor's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) is currently accepting applications for grant funding opportunities related to traffic safety initiatives for Federal fiscal year 2013. The grants are currently split into three distinct and one general program:

Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP): Grants under this program will be used to fund overtime for enforcement of dangerous driving behaviors, including speed and distraction. Police agencies will use local data to determine problem areas and develop countermeasures to reduce crashed. Applicants who are approved must support these activities with public information and education efforts.

Buckle Up New York (BUNY): Grants under this program will focus on seat belt enforcement and will provide overtime funding to participate in the statewide seat belt enforcement mobilization for 2013. Applicants who are approved will conduct use surveys and participate in public information efforts.

Child Passenger Safety (CPS): CPS grants will be used to support child passenger safety activities including fitting stations, traning and education programs, child passenger safety check events and car seat distribution programs for low income families. Agencies that apply must have a certified technician.

General Highway Safety Grants - Programs for Local, State and Nonprofit Agencies: The general grant used by agencies to apply for funding to address a particular highway safety problem in their jurisdiction. Applicants will need to submit a narrative outline of the problem with supporting data and details for the proposed activities with milestones and an evaluation plan.

Agencies eligible to apply include law enforcement agencies, local governments and state agencies and non-profit organizations registered with NYS. Funding will vary by program. For questions regarding these grants you can review the programs online here or call 518-474-5111. The deadline for applications is May 15th and can be submitted to:

New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee
Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire Plaza, Room 414
Albany, NY 1228

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation grants available

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is currently accepting applications for Technical Assistance Grants (TAGs). TAGs are tools available to eligible community groups to increase public awareness and understanding of remedial activities taking place at certain contaminated sites in their communities. The grants are intended to help the recipient and the community it represents understand existing environmental data developed about the site, comment on site remedial activities and proposals and share them with the community. No matching contributions are required on the part of the grant recipient.

Under the TAG program, eligible sites include State Superfund Program and Brownfield Cleanup Program sites that pose a significant threat to public health or the environment. Eligible groups must be non-responsible parties incorporated as not-for-profit corporations under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. An eligible community group must certify that its membership represents the interest of the community affected by the site and that its members’ health, economic well-being or enjoyment of the environment is potentially threatened by the site. Funding will be offered at up to $50,000 per site. The deadline is rolling.

For more information visit the DEC website, or contact the TAG Coordinator, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Environmental Remediation, 625 Broadway, Albany, New York 12233-7012, or 518-402-9711.

Environmental Equinox Awards to be held on May 17th

Join Citizens Campaign for the Environment as they celebrate 27 years of grassroots accomplishments at the 2012 Environmental Equinox Awards Gala. This year, CCE will be honoring Dr. Nathalia Rogers, Director of American Communities Institute at Dowling College, and Dr. Christopher Gobler of SUNY Stony Brook School of Marine & Atmospheric Sciences. The Gala includes dinner and dancing. 

The Gala will take place on Thursday, May 17th from 6:30-11:00pm at The Woodbury Country Club, 884 Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury. To purchase tickets, please print and return the response form to CCE, 225A Main Street, Farmingdale, NY 11735 or contact Maureen at 516-390-7150. Individual tickets are $150 and sponsorship opportunities are available. 

Citizens Campaign for the Environment  (CCE) was formed in 1985 by a small group of concerned citizens who recognized the need to provide public involvement to advance stronger environmental policy. Today, after 25 years as a not-for-profit, non-partisan advocacy organization, CCE has grown to an 80,000-member organization with offices in Farmingdale, White Plains, Albany, Syracuse, Buffalo, NY and Hamden, CT. CCE continues to work to empower the public by providing members with opportunities to participate in the political process and thereby advance a strong environmental agenda.

Welfare to Work Commission to Hold Public Hearings beginning May 18th

The Welfare to Work Commission of the Suffolk County Legislature will hold three public hearings, Struggling in Suburbia: Meeting the Challenges of Poverty in Suffolk County:

• at the Hauppauge legislative auditorium, Friday, May 18, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
• at Hauppauge legislative auditorium, Tuesday, May 22, 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• at the Riverhead legislative auditorium Friday June 1, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

These public hearings are for academic experts, government officials, human-services agencies and the public to speak up about the rise in poverty in Suffolk County. The hearings will lead to a report to the Suffolk County Legislature that will address the following questions:

1. Who are the poor, near poor and new poor people living on Long Island and especially in Suffolk County? And why are they poor?
2. How effective is the federal poverty level (FPL) in measuring poverty on Long Island?  Are there viable alternative measures? 
3. What are the life experiences of people struggling to make ends meet? What difficulties do they face obtaining supportive services?
4. What public polices can be introduced, expanded or preserved at the federal, New York State or Suffolk County levels of government to assist these struggling individuals and families? 

In the fall of 2011, the U.S. Census Bureau released startling data which showed a dramatic increase in the number of Americans – especially suburbanites - who live in poverty.  Yet, while we are well into another election cycle, we can again expect poverty to take a back seat to so many other issues. This is why the Welfare to Work Commission is holding these public hearings: to tell the often hidden story of poverty in suburbia. The featured speaker on May 18th will be Trudi Renwick, Chief, Poverty Statistics Branch, Social, Economic and Housing Statistics Division US Census Bureau whose 2011 report triggered the hearings. She will be followed by a reaction panel of Long Island experts: Professor Sarah Eichberg of Adelphi University’s Vial Signs Project; Pearl Kamer, Chief Economist of the LIA and others.  Government officials and agency representatives will then testify, followed by public comments.

The events are free and registration is not required. For further information please contact Suffolk County Legislator DuWayne Gregory, Chair of the Human Services Committee at 631-854-1111 or Dr. Richard Koubek, Chair of the Welfare to Work Commission of the Suffolk County Legislature, at 631-499-6725.

Solar Jobs Day on May 21st

Summer is nearly here, and it’s time for Albany to put more of that New York sunshine to work already! Show lawmakers that solar power is a priority for New Yorkers, and learn about the solar industry by attending the Long Island Solar Jobs Day on Monday, May 21st from 10:30am to 1:30pm at the Sustainability Institute at Molloy College in East Farmingdale.

A group of organizations have joined forces to plan free community events throughout the state. These New York Solar Jobs Days will feature fun solar demos, training from solar job experts, opportunities to talk with local solar companies, and plenty of ways to show your elected official that you care. Additional Solar Jobs Days will be held in Buffalo, NYC, and Albany.

New York Solar Jobs Days are a joint project of Vote Solar, Natural Resource Defense Council, Pace Energy & Climate Center, Alliance for Clean Energy New York, Solar Energy Industries Association, New York Solar Energy Industries Association, Citizen’s Campaign for the Environment, Workforce Development Institute, Apollo Alliance, New York League of Conservation Voters, Renewable Energy Long Island, The Alliance for a Greater New York, People United for Sustainable Housing, Center for Working Families, Sierra Club, Environment New York. Environmental Advocates of New York, and Vision Long Island.

Without strong state policy providing a clear roadmap for growth, solar currently accounts for far less than 1% of New York’s electricity. Even so, it’s provided many New Yorkers with clean energy, bill savings, and a rare bright spot of economic opportunity through the economic recession. Just imagine what could be accomplished with real leadership from Albany. The New York Solar Jobs Act proposal, for instance, would make the Empire State a clear solar leader with a goal of deploying 3,000 MW by 2021. Join us in calling on our lawmakers for solar action. In this fight, there’s nothing as powerful as the voices of real New Yorkers.

Learn more here. Can’t make it to a New York Solar Jobs Day in person? Send a little virtual sunshine to lawmakers with an email of solar support here.

Regional Economic Development Councils to hold info sessions on CFA application process beginning May 22nd

The Long Island Regional Economic Development Council will be holding workshops and public forums during the next two months to teach business owners how to go through the state’s new Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process.

Companies seeking to tap CFA funds must submit their applications by July 16. The three Long Island workshops detailing how to submit those applications will be held at 2pm on May 22  at Adelphi University in Garden City; at 2pm on June 5 at Farmingdale State College; and 1pm on June 20 at Stony Brook University’s Center for Global Studies and Human Development.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo rolled out the CFA program last year as part of the state’s Regional Economic Development Council initiative that allows each of the state’s 10 regions to compete for hundreds of millions of dollars in economic development funding. Companies competed for $785 million last year through the CFA plan. This year, the amount will be $750 million. The CFA combines funding from multiple state agencies providing companies with a one-stop shop for state funding rather than submitting separate applications for each agency.

More info at LI Business News.

Intern with Vision this spring!

Vision Long Island is looking for interns for Spring 2012. Our staff likes to say we "wear many hats," and interns will have to do the same. Interns will assist with planning, design, outreach, event planning, writing, research, attending meetings, reporting, photography, video and more. Bring your unique skill set to the table! We are looking for energetic and conscientious individuals with an interest in urban/suburban planning from a bottom-up perspective. This is a valuable opportunity to work with great people and learn about the issues impacting Long Island. Strong writing skills a plus.

To learn more or apply, send a resume, cover letter and writing sample to info@visionlongisland.org. Put Spring 2012 Internship in the subject heading. For more information, call our office at 631-261-0242.

Check out what downtown theaters and performing arts centers are playing this weekend! Consider visiting a local bar or restaurant, or doing some shopping before or after the show.

Bay Street Theater
The Long Wharf, Sag Harbor:
The Picture Show presents: Gone with the Wind - Friday, May 11th at 8:00 pm
My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy - Friday, May 12th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here.

Boulton Center
37 West Main Street, Bay Shore:
9th Annual YMCA Boulton Center Gala Event - Saturday, May 12th at 8:00 pm - SOLD OUT
Tickets and more information available here

John W. Engeman Theater
250 Main Street, Northport:
42nd Street - Friday, May 11th at 8:00 pm, Saturday, May 12th at 3:00 and 8:00 pm, and Sunday, May 13th at 2:00 and 7:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Guildhall, John Drew Theater
158 Main Street, East Hampton
Uncle Vanya by Anton Chekhov - Friday, May 11th and Saturday, May 12th at 8:00 pm and Sunday, May 13th at 7:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Landmark on Main Street, the Jeanne Rimsky Theater
232 Main Street, Port Washington:
Christine Ebersole in Concert - Saturday, May 12th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Patchogue Theater for the Performing Arts
71 East Main Street, Patchogue:
Melissa Manchester in Concert - Saturday, May 12th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

The Paramount
370 New York Ave, Huntington:
Fountains of Wayne in Concert - Friday, May 11th at 8:00 pm
Dark Star Orchestra - Saturday, May 12th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Theatre Three
412 Main Street, Port Jefferson:
Friday Night Face Off - Friday, May 11thth at 10:30 pm
Class Dismissed: The Bullying Project - Saturday, May 12th at 9:30 am
Comedy Club @ Theatre Three - Saturday, May 12th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Vail-Leavitt Music Hall
18 Peconic Avenue, Riverhead:
Guest Renter Act Out East presents: Guys and Dolls - Friday, May 11th and Saturday, May 12th at 6:30 pm and Sunday, May 13th at 2:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Museums in or near Long Island downtowns:

Garvies Point Museum and Preserve
50 Barry Drive, Glen Cove
The museum is a center for research on Long Island geology, Native American archeology and natural history. Current exhibits feature, “The Seasonal Round”, an exploration through Long Island Native American life throughout the seasons. Exhibits on Long Island’s glacial formation, landform change and cultural evolution are on display. Prehistoric artifacts and audio descriptions add to the story of Long Island migrants, their lifestyles and interactions with newcomers such as Europeans. The museum has special educational programs to accommodate field trips and science research on the history of Long Island.
To arrange a visit, call 516-571-8011 and for information and brochures, visit their website

Fine Arts Museums of Long Island
295 Fulton Ave, Hempstead
The museum highlights pieces of contemporary and pre-Columbian art which have travelled internationally. It features innovative technologies such as, an interactive computer center, a video room and computer assisted art displays. These technologies give an innovative museum experience to enrich the value taken away by visitors. The 21st century experience is fitting for student field trips as well as visitors of all ages.
For information, visit their website or call 516-481-5700

Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum
Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor
The museum explores the relationship between Long Islanders and the sea through. It details the history of the regional whaling industry, whale conservation and the history of Cold Spring Harbor as a maritime port. A new exhibit, “Right Whales”, highlights the biology, history and decline of the Right Whale. Exhibits featuring New York’s only fully-equipped 19th century whaleboat, ship logs and correspondence as well as whaling and maritime artifacts. Art programs are available for all ages.
For information, visit their website or call 631-367-3418

East Hampton Historical Society
101 Main Street, East Hampton
The headquarters for the East Hampton Historical Society, the house is an example of life in the post-colonial era in the East End. It features historic furnishings and crafts built by local craftsmen of the time. The Historical Society also has four other museums and town houses including one of New York’s first educational academies and a colonial town government meeting house.
For information, visit their website or call 631-324-6850

Heckscher Museum
2 Prime Avenue, Huntington
Located in Hecksher Park, the museum features collections of European and American paintings which spans over 500 years of Western art. Photography has become a growing part of the collection as well. Current exhibits include “A Way with Words: Text in Art”, which displays the incorporation of text in visual art and “Coming of Age in America : The Photography of Joseph Szabo”, which portraits adolescence of Long Island through time with a look at summers spent at the beach. The museum also features educational experiences for students and adults and will exhibit Long Island’s best young artists in April.
For information, visit their website or call 631-351-3250

Hicksville-Gregory Museum
Intersection of Heitz Place and Bay Avenue, Hicksville
The museum includes a history of the Heitz Place Courthouse and a collection of earth science materials to describe the natural history of the area. It features one of the few remaining Long Island lock-ups and is one of the few remaining courthouses standing from before Nassau County split from Queens. The earth science exhibit in the museum has recent additions of a Mosasaur skull, prehistoric amber and the horn of a Triceratops horridus. The educational program at the museum offers experiences in paleontology, dynamic earth processes and investigating butterflies and moths.
For information, visit their website or call 516-822-7505

Islip Art Museum
50 Irish Lane, East Islip
The museum is the leading exhibition space for contemporary art on Long Island, featuring work from international, national and emerging local artists. It is said to be the best facility of its kind outside of Manhattan. Current exhibits feature “Jam Session”, a holiday exhibit featuring paintings and sculptures influenced by music. The museum’s store features one of a kind jewelry, crafts and art work. Educational opportunists are also offered at the museum through its Cultural School of Arts.
For information, visit their website or call 631-224-5402

Long Island Maritime Museum
88 West Avenue, West Sayville
Featuring 14 acres with 9 historic buildings on the West Sayville waterfront, the museum preserves Long Island’s maritime history and heritage. It is committed to research, preservation and interpretation of the region’s nautical history and the relationship to Long Island’s natural history. The Elward Smith Library houses racing trophies and records of over 500 wrecks and groundings in the Long Island waters. The other buildings feature rotating exhibits of maps, photos, newspapers and personal accounts of maritime history. Also highlighted are boats and materials left behind by the US Life Saving Service. For information, visit their website.

Museum of the Village of Rockville Centre-Phillips House
28 Hempstead Ave, Rockville Centre
The museum is a restored 19th century Victorian home which displays life in Rockville Centre in the 19th and 20th centuries. It features furnishings, antique kitchen tools, carpentry tools and clothing of the time period. The museum is considered one of the finest small museums in the state and there is never an entrance fee for special events or exhibits.
For information, visit their website or call 516-766-0300

Oyster Bay Historical Society
20 Summit Street, Oyster Bay
The Earle-Wightman House built in 1720, gives a picture of life in Oyster Bay during the colonial period and its transition through the mid-20th Century. It features an 18th century garden, maintained by the North Country Garden Club, holds ornamental plantings as well as herbs used for cooking, medical purposes and fragrances. Exhibited are postcard, photograph, map and newspaper collections. Current exhibition, “Women Wearing History: The Force Behind Fashion”, details women’s influence on the textile and fashion industry in the 19th and 20th centuries.
For information, visit their website or call 516-922-5032

Port Jefferson Historical Society
115 Prospect Avenue, Port Jefferson
The Mather House Museum, the headquarters of The Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson, and features several exhibitions of local artifacts. The museum complex features the 19th century home, a country store, a marine barn, a tool shed, the Spinney Clock Museum and the Thomas Jefferson Perennial Garden. Exhibitions feature ship models, period furniture and paintings, vintage tools and clothing, antique dolls, taped oral histories, 250 antique clocks and other examples of life in the 19th century.
For information, visit their website or call 631-473-2665

Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum
Main and Garden Streets, Sag Harbor
The museum details Sag Harbor’s whaling industry through the 19th century and its impact on the culture and development of the area. It details how the whaling industry brought migrants from all over the globe and turned the port into an international destination. Artifacts left by whalers, antique tools, harpoons, captains’ portraits, antique furnishings and children’s toys are all on display at the museum.
For information, visit their website or call 631-725-0770

Sayville Historical Society
Edwards Street, Sayville
The museum is the headquarters to the Sayville Historical Society. The museum aims to foster historical spirit, encourage historical research and to preserve historical materials. The museum features products of both Sayville and other Suffolk localities. The Society holds 4 historic buildings, 1,500 items of clothing, 1,000 photographs, a map collection and numerous classic furnishings. Its collection is constantly growing and tours of the Edward Homestead offer a view at the area through its history.
For information, visit their website or call 631-563-0186

Sea Cliff Village Museum
95 Tenth Avenue, Sea Cliff
The museum presents changing exhibits on the history and culture of Sea Cliff. It strives to raise community awareness by preserving artifacts, photographs and costumes relating to the unique historical background of the village. It contains 287 photos taken by Long Island postcard photographer, Henry Otto Korten. Currently exhibited, “Then and Now…” displays a range of artifacts and costumes over a 125 year span. Exhibits include the Connor Cottage, Victorian Kitchen, and a historical town diorama.
For information, visit their website or call 516-671-0090

Smithtown Township Arts Council
660 Route 25A, Smithtown
The Council aims to enrich the township and surrounding area’s quality of life through celebrating and supporting the arts in everyday life. It is a goal to make art accessible to people of all backgrounds. It Mills Pond House is a valuable place in its preserved traditions as well as its evolving and unique influences. Current exhibit, “Winners Showcase” displays the artistic development and achievements of the region and nation. Classes in jewelry making, poster design, scrapbooking, pottery, drawing and several other skills and topics are available. The Council has also partnered with local downtown businesses to display local artists’ work.
For information, visit their website or call 631-862-6575

Southampton Historical Society
17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton
The Southampton Historical Society was created to preserve the town’s history as well as history from the surrounding area. Its Rogers Mansion Museum features year round exhibits, a research center and education programs for children and adults. Current exhibits include “Shopkeepers of Southampton: Photographs by Davis Gaffga”, which gives a detailed look into historic businesses which helped shape downtown and community. Its research center allows for visitors to conduct research with a professional research assistant. Collections feature antique furnishings, a classic parlor room and dining hall and photographs of the 1938 historic hurricane.
For information, visit their website or call 631-268-2494

Freeport Historical Museum
350 S Main Street, Freeport
Housed in a Civil War cottage, the museum chronicles Freeport's history through the 20th century. On display are a spinning wheel from the town’s oldest house, vaudeville-era items, waterfront memorabilia, a 1930s television and a 1777 13-star flag. The museum holds a collection of historic postcards and high school yearbooks from the early 1900s to present day.
For information, visit their website or call 979-233-3526

Palace Galleries
117 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck
The museum features highly distinctive collections of antiques, artworks and fine furnishings from around the world. It is a premier art dealer dating back to 1971 and features expertise in 17th to 19th century works. The gallery experience offers the opportunity to not only view fine art but to purchase a piece which stands out.
For information, call 516-439-5218

Long Beach Historical Museum
226 W. Penn Street, Long Beach
The museum, operated by the Long Beach Historical and Preservation Society, is a classic Craftsman-style summer villa. The house built in 1909, features large stain glass windows which are a hallmark of classic Long Beach estates. The house and backyard are furnished with local artifacts, including an original broadwalk bench, photographs and archaeological findings. The garden features original stock rose bushes.
For information, visit their website.

Nassau

Clearview Grand Avenue
1841 Grand Avenue, Baldwin
516-223-2323
clearviewcinemas.com

Bellmore Movies
222 Pettit Avenue, Bellmore
516-783-7200

Glen Cove Theatres
5 School Street, Glen Cove
516-671-6866
www.glencovetheatres.com

Clearview Squire Cinemas Great Neck
115 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck
516-466-2020
clearviewcinemas.com

Long Beach Cinema
179 East Park Avenue, Long Beach
516-431-2400

Clearview Manhasset 3
430 Plandome Road, Manhasset
516-627-7887
clearviewcinemas.com

Clearview Port Washington
116 Main Street, Port Washington
516-756-2589
clearviewcinemas.com

Clearview Roslyn Theatre
20 Tower Place, Roslyn
516-756-2589
clearviewcinemas.com

Seaford Cinemas
3951 Merrick Road, Seaford
516-409-8700
seafordcinemas.com

Suffolk

Clearview's Babylon Cinemas
34 Main Street, Babylon
clearviewcinemas.com

AMC Loews Theatres – Shore 8
37 Wall Street, Huntington
888-262-4386
amctheatres.com

Cinema Arts Centre
423 Park Ave, Huntington
631-423-7611
cinemaartscentre.org

Islip Cinemas
410 West Main Street, Islip
631-581-5200

Sayville Theatre
103 Railroad Avenue, Sayville
631-589-0232
sayvillecinemas.com