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December 3rd - 6th, 2012


Regional Updates

Posillico

For three generations, Posillico has combined an ironclad commitment to quality performance with an unequaled family work ethic, making the company a leader in public works projects. Incorporated in 1946 under the presidency of Joseph D. Posillico, Sr. as a small trucking contractor, the company has grown to become one of the top engineering contracting firms in New York. We employ as many as four hundred people and serve the entire Tri-State area.

Over the last five decades, Posillico has completed many large and highly complex civil engineering and construction projects. These complex projects more often require off-peak construction during nighttime hours with stringent penalty/ bonus clauses, which have been consistently achieved by the Posillico team.

Their integrated services of civil, materials, environmental, drilling and consulting have allowed them to provide the seamless, cost-effective construction solutions to complex problems that their clients demand today and will demand in the future.

“The region’s growth in population and its dependence on cars has led to an ever-worsening grid lock on our roadways, which are some of the most dangerous roads in New York State. This bill sets the tone for Suffolk County when it designs its roadways. Now we must look to accommodate all users. Complete Streets is a smart program that should enhance the quality of life for everyone." - Suffolk County Legislator Rob Calarco speaking on the recently passed Complete Streets Law

“Accessible roadways and sidewalks are not only a critical link in our transportation system, but also vitally important to help AARP’s more than 300,000 members and all residents in Suffolk County have access to essential services in order to remain active and give back to their communities as they age.” - AARP Associate State Director for Livable Communities, Will Stoner, speaking on the recently passed Complete Streets Law

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Long Island in need of a regional disaster strategy

In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the greater community of Long Island continues to pull together to help distressed neighborhoods and and displaced residents who have yet to make their way home. In the Town of Huntington seen some heavy equipment to Amityville to help clear village streets, the Town of North Hempstead and the Village of Hempstead, along with other municipalities, funneled equipment and manpower south to help Long beach, while they themselves dealt with downed trees and other issues.

However, as the region considers the improvements in the Long Island Power Authority and other physical infrastructure, it would do the region well to turn a critical eye back on upon itself. Despite the region’s enviable resources--volunteer rescuers to 13 towns, two cities, and 96 villages worth of equipment and manpower--there was no way to make concerted use of them during or after the crisis. There was a severe lack of coordination or plans between municipalities during the storm, could those less hard hit have moved faster to help neighborhoods in other communities?

While it is the responsibility of a municipality to deal with its own communities first and a cost to sending resources to other neighborhoods, cooperation is an important way for the region, and the residents, to regain footing quicker after a natural disaster. Currently, there is no regional infrastructure to put such a plan into play.

Jack Schnirman, the Long Beach city manager, made a pitch for help during Vision Long Island’s 11th Annual Smart Growth Summit on one of the discussion panels. Some municipalities had already sent aid, while others sent later on. Island Park, Inwood, parts of Seaford and Lindenhurst are among the many communities that could have benefited from a regional coordinated approach to debris removal, inspections, and other tasks.

On Monday, the Long Island Association and other groups began laying some groundwork for considering where the region should go next post-Sandy. They are focusing on issues such as restoration, housing, water, sewage, utilities, transportation, and other essential services.

Meanwhile, a joint committee of Suffolk County lawmakers has slated a hearing for Thursday, at 6 p.m. at the legislative building at 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Smithtown, to gather public comment as part of its “Post Sandy Response Assessment.”

It would be beneficial to the region to begin plans on a more coordinated municipal response in the event of future disasters or emergencies.

Regional

Suffolk County Legislature approves County-wide Complete Streets Bill

A bill was Tuesday by Suffolk County Legislature that will require pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit users to have prominent consideration in any road improvement plan.

The proposal, drawn up and supported by Legislators Rob Calarco (D-Patchogue) and Kara Hahn (D-Setauket) is based on the transportation design model Complete Streets. It emphasizes planning for more sidewalks, bicycle lanes, bus pullouts, and pedestrian curb ramps. The proposal supports design features which are “more conducive to the public life and efficient movement of people than streets designed primarily to move automobiles and trucks,” according to the proposal.

It would require Suffolk County public works officials, who now use Complete Streets designs on an informal basis, to evaluate its feasibility during every new roadwork project. New York State and several Long Island towns have already adopted similar plans.

“The region’s growth in population and its dependence on cars has led to an ever-worsening grid lock on our roadways, which are some of the most dangerous roads in New York State," Calarco said. "This bill sets the tone for Suffolk County when it designs its roadways. Now we must look to accommodate all users. Complete Streets is a smart program that should enhance the quality of life for everyone."

Following press and media highlights on pedestrian safety and roads such as Hempstead Turnpike, a 16 mile stretch running from the Queens border to Suffolk, state officials have adopted many changes similar to those of the Complete Streets bill. Ryan Lynch associate director for the Tri-State Transportation Campaign, a nonprofit aiming to reduce car dependency, said Suffolk roads are also among the region’s most dangerous for walkers and cyclists.

“This institutionalizes the idea that pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit users have an equal right to use our roadways in a safe way,” Lynch said.

“This bill, passed in a 16-0 vote, sends a powerful public message. Now we must design our roadways for everyone, not just cars and trucks,” said Eric Alexander, executive director of Vision Long Island.

The state Complete Streets law, which passed last year, applies only to roads receiving state and federal funds. Lynch said Suffolk’s proposal fills in a gap between the state and towns.

Mike Martino, a Nassau County Public Works spokesman, said all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and people of all ages, are considered in all “new road construction projects.” He would not elaborate but did add that there is a plan in the works in Nassau to rent bicycles in county parks.

Many streets and roads in Suffolk County were developed with a heavy car culture in mind. But the population is changing, and as a new generation emerges, so are their needs. Roads are becoming congested and dangerous; it is important to plan better infrastructure which provides people with safe transportation alternatives and options and to keep in mind pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit users and it can only begin with the redesigning of roads.

New York looks to the future with Nostrand Avenue BRT

The U.S. Federal Transit Administration has awarded more than half of the $40 million needed to construct a 9.3-mile bus rapid transit (BRT) line in Brooklyn, a transit project that sets its sights squarely on the future.

The line, called the Nostrand Avenue Select Bus Service (SBS), will include a dedicated bus lane, traffic signal priority, and off-board fare collection to speed up the ride. The buses will be low to the ground, and will feature three doors for faster boarding. Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff and New York City DOT Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan sign a $28.3 million grant agreement that will help construct this BRT line in Brooklyn. The grant will cover 71 percent of the total cost of the $40.2 million project.

The line will run in a dedicated bus lane primarily along Nostrand Avenue and will feature traffic signal priority, 17 paired stations, and off-board fare collection to speed up the ride. The buses will boast three doors for getting on and off, and will be low to the ground for easier boarding. The route will extend from the Williamsburg Bridge Plaza to the north all the way to Sheepshead Bay toward the south. Along the way, it will pass through the densely populated communities of Prospect Park and Flatbush. These enhancements promise to be a marked improvement over the current B44 bus line in speed, convenience, and reliability. That's good news for the 44,000 people who ride the B44 each day, and it's also good news for those who don't ride the B44 because they find it too slow or unpredictable.

“The Nostrand Avenue BRT will offer commuters and others a real choice to get to where they need to go,” said Administrator Rogoff.

Hurricane Sandy reminded us all of the importance and vulnerability of our transportation options and systems. Everyone who saw the effects of Sandy now recognize the critical role that buses play if and when the subway system is down. The DOT will continue to coordinate with state and local partners to get the entire New York region back on its feet. The goal of the Nostrand SBS is to bring much needed improvements to service to those traveling to work, school, or other activities; the construction of this project is important. It will help recover from the devastation of Sandy and ensure that New Yorkers have a way to travel in case of unpredictable, future disasters.

For further reading please visit the DOT blog, Fast Lane.

The Suffolk Theater’s long awaited opening has a major significance to the prosperity of the region

The Suffolk Theater, described as the most beautiful theater in all of Long Island, will host an anniversary party that marks another milestone for the region.

The historic theater will open its doors on December 30th, 2012 for what event organizers are calling the sneak preview anniversary party.  The Suffolk Theater will be celebrating its grand re-opening on February 2, 2013. This long awaited event is expected to have a major impact on the continuing revitalization of downtown Riverhead and will dramatically affect the prosperity of the eastern Long Island region.

“Encore!” the “Sneak Preview” Party features “Footlight Parade,” which was the first film ever shown at The Suffolk Theater on December 30, 1933, with live music of the time by Barbara Rosene and her New Yorkers. The party will take place from 4pm-7pm and tickets are affordably priced at $33 per person with a cash bar. The mood will be set with classic cars parked in front of the theater and newspaper boys greeting entering guests. attendees are being encouraged to “dress in their 30’s best” and the evening will include themed food & drink, costumed revelers & special guests.

When asked about the importance of the opening, Executive Director, Bob Spiotto makes the claim, “this is going to make a difference mentally, spiritually, emotionally and economically in the energizing of this area.”

The revitalization of Riverhead’s Main Street has been stalled as the future of its centerpiece and The Suffolk Theater had remained cloudy, but now hope is restored with the theater’s reopening. Even though, the Town of Riverhead has long been established as the economic engine of Long Island’s East End, its downtown has remained distressed.

Long Island has a history of innovative and entrepreneurial energy, our region is made up of thousands of smaller businesses from high- tech manufacturers to low-tech tourism and a host of service sector concerns in between.  The strength of Long Island’s economy is its diverse base of businesses, with a coveted labor force trained in first-rate schools and colleges. Eighty percent of Long Island’s 2.8 million residents now work on Long Island, depending on the health of its economy for their livelihood. This is the Suffolk Theater’s customer base. Market studies have shown that the area is in need of a cultural venue for live performance and film. as a matter of fact there has been a consistent public outcry since the Suffolk Theater was shuttered nearly 30 years ago.

The theater, originally opened on December 30, 1933,  was described as, “Long Island’s prettiest and most complete playhouse”.  This tradition will live on in this newly restored performing arts center, providing diverse programming for all ages, from live entertainment, music and plays to movies and catered affairs. The Suffolk Theater’s owners, Bob and Dianne Castaldi have lovingly refurbished every facet of the facility to its original concept and beyond and soon everyone will get a peek at this restoration to greatness.

The party starts at 4pm. Tickets are available online or by calling the theater Box Office. For additional information please contact Susan Hackett, 631-727-4343.

London Economics International advises that repowering Port Jefferson would provide wholesale electric power savings

According to a study done by London Economics International, LLC (LEI), a Boston and Toronto based global economic and finance consulting firm specializing in energy and infrastructure, hired by a consortium of Port Jefferson Village stakeholders finds, found that Long Island’s ratepayers would benefit through price savings by repowering the Port Jefferson power plant. The completed market impact study focused on repowering alternatives on behalf of the Incorporated Village of Port Jefferson. The municipality asked LEI to determine whether a repowered Port Jefferson could yield reductions in wholesale energy and capacity market prices for the Long Island market.

LEI used its proprietary production cost network model POOLMod to develop and evaluate different alternatives for meeting future energy demand over the next 10 years.  LEI’s model simulates hourly system dispatch to forecast locational market prices. Key inputs came from independent sources, including the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO), and the US Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA), as well as the Federal energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”). Although the study focus was specifically on the Long Island area, the modeling was done to encompass the entire New York state market. The energy market simulations were further integrated with a simulator of the NYISO spot market capacity auctions, to produce a forecast of capacity prices.

LEI’s analysis considered the economics of repowering, both from the perspective of the overall market (and ratepayers) in terms of market impact and from the private investor (to assess whether the investment would be economically viable). Repowering of the Port Jefferson power plant in 2020, the time the New York Energy Highway Blueprint estimates Port Jefferson will be repowered and also when additional generation capacity will be necessary, is projected to benefit Long Island by reductions in aggregate.

One of the conclusions critical for policymakers to understand from the market analysis is that repowering is an economically viable alternative to meet the needs of local demand and local resource adequacy. Repowering of the Port Jefferson power station is projected to benefit Long Island’s ratepayers by reductions in aggregate wholesale energy prices in the tens of millions of dollars. Total average benefits from wholesale market impacts in Long Island are $127 million per year between 2020 and 2022 which are greater than  estimated all-in fixed costs of the investment of $77 million per year for the modeled 350 Megawatt (MW) proposed repowered Port Jefferson power station.

The study also determined that a prospective award of power purchase agreements for new plants at an aggregate capacity of around 700 MW (to be operational in 2016), in addition to the repowering of the Barrett facility in 2019, would eliminate the economic market-based motivation and capacity need for any additional repowering as an alternative for the foreseeable future. The study conclusions are based on LEI’s simulation and take into account projected market dynamics, considering current generation, NYISO’s load forecast, and potential retirements.

Shawn Carraher, lead project consultant for LEI says: "repowering Port Jefferson in 2020 is needed for capacity and results in lower wholesale energy prices and capacity prices as compared to the “business as usual” outlook. Despite assuming the influx of new capacity into Long Island (e.g.,  LIPA Request for Proposal results in 400 MW of new generation in 2016 and Barrett is repowered in 2019 at 478 MW), repowering Port Jefferson in 2020 creates wholesale market benefits that exceed estimated contract costs, albeit these net benefits are not permanent.”

Suburbs may not be best for mental health, suicide rates decrease with density

While most data suggests that overcrowding leads to alienation, ergo suburbs are better for mental  health, an article in Atlantic Cities, which focuses specifically on gun related deaths and also links to a 2011 Center for Disease Control (CDC) report of 2006 data, provides data from an analysis that shows that though firearm homicides are higher in denser areas, the rates of suicide by firearm is well below more suburban areas.

The article sums up its analysis by saying that central cities frequently had firearm homicide rates at least twice as high as those for their Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSAs) ,but often had firearm suicide rates below those of their MSAs. The latter finding is consistent with previous findings for the United States showing that overall suicide rates generally decrease with increasing population density, a factor which has been attributed largely to decreasing firearm suicide rates with increasing urbanization.

The article cites and also links to a recent article by Harry Moroz at The Next American City. Moroz's study of the CDC data led him to conclude that almost 60% of US firearm homicides occur in the 62 cities of the country’s 50 largest metros.  “However, only 27 percent of suites do. In 2006, firearm suicides were a primarily suburban (and non-central city) phenomenon.”

It's also worth noting that the 2011 CDC report gives more attention to teens between ages 10-19. They have consistently higher suicide rates than the population as a whole.

All of the articles point to all sorts of other influences on the rates – local gun control laws, unemployment levels, race, etc. Between an aging suburban population and the preponderance of suburban teenagers – mental health is another reason to retrofit the suburbs.

For more information or to view the reports cited in the analysis please visit the Atlantic Cities website.

Volunteers needed for Clean Up this Weekend

Dear potential volunteers who have not yet signed up for a community for this weekend.

Vision Long Island is organizing another physical clean-up crews to assist local communities damaged by heavy flooding for this weekend.

Thanks for your past help of Sandy  impacted residents but much work still needs to be done.  I know that with the holiday season, it may be hard for you to come out but any time you could donate would be greatly appreciated.

This weekend we will be continuing our cleanup efforts in the following communities:

MASTIC BEACH:
We will also be working with Island Harvest to get food to the residents who need it and physical clean ups.  Both operations will run 10am-2pm this Saturday meeting at the Nutrition Center located at 369 Neighborhood Dr., Mastic Beach 11951. 

LONG BEACH
150 West Shore Drive, Long Beach
Sorting donations and physical clean ups.
Saturday, 10am - 5pm
Sunday, 10am - 5pm

FREEPORT
234 Woodcleft
Multiple clean ups
Saturday, 9am - 5pm

LINDENHURST
Meet at Shore Road Park
Multiple clean ups
Sat 10am - 5pm

Please provide your own supplies needed for clean-up:  Industrial bags, rakes, hammers, shovels, gloves, masks, heavy boots.  We may have many of these items available but it is safer to have them ready to go just in case. 

SIMPLY CONTACT INFO@VISIONLONGISLAND.ORG OR CALL 631-804-9128 SO WE KNOW WHO IS SIGNING UP

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE

If you are unable to volunteer and would like to donate food or clean up supplies they can be dropped off during business hours at:

The Sustainability Institute at Molloy College
7180 Republic Airport
E. Farmingdale, NY 11735
631-963-5454

Thanks for anything you can do.

Eric

Eric Alexander
Vision Long Island

Shop Downtown for the Holidays Today!

Vision Encourages Long Islanders to shop in the local downtown this holiday season. Check out the Northport Village Merchant's Association's late night Thursday promotion and benefit for victims of Hurricane Sandy.

For more information check out the Northport Village Merchant's Association Facebook page here.

FEMA and SBA informational briefings for Long Islanders affected by Hurricane Sandy on December 7th and 11th

The Village of Northport and Representative Steve Israel will be hosting an event at Northport Village Hall on December 11th for an informational briefing with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) & Small Business Administration (SBA).

The event will take place on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 5pm at Northport Village Hall ‐ 224 Main Street. FEMA and SBA experts will provide residents and small business owners with a briefing on federal programs available for families with storm damage to their homes as well as aid available for local companies for disaster recovery. After the briefing, SBA & FEMA experts will be available to answer questions residents or business owners may have.

There will also on Friday, December 7 in Mastic Beach, Congressman Tim Bishop will host a FEMA Individual Assistance Information Session to inform residents of the federal support available to households affected by Superstorm Sandy. Representatives from FEMA will make a presentation on the Individual Assistance program, which provides grant funding for damages not covered by homeowners' or flood insurance. FEMA will also be available to answer questions and concerns regarding the program and other assistance that may be available to households.All Suffolk County residents affected by Superstorm Sandy are invited to attend the meeting at the Mastic Beach Fire House at 265 Neighborhood Lane in Mastic Beach on Friday, December 7 from 3PM to 4PM. RSVP is not necessary.

You can view Congressman Steve Israel’s Guide for Sandy Federal Assistance at http://www.israel.house.gov/Sandy. If you have any questions about the Northport event, please call Rep. Israel’s Office at (631) 951‐2210.  

For more information on the Mastic Beach meeting please call Congressman Bishop's office at (631) 289-6500.

CAN-DEE Music Festival for Hurricane Relief on Saturday, December 8th

On Saturday, December 8th, from 12 to 8 pm the annual holiday concert run by CAN-DEE Music will be devoting itself to relief for Hurricane Sandy victims. The music will be presented by students and friends of the studio.

Items urgently needed include cleaning supplies (bleach, scrub brushes/sponges, heavy duty garbage bags, etc.), baby items (powdered formula, baby food, diapers, wipes), personal hygiene products (tooth brushes/paste, deodorant, feminine products) and non-perishable food (water, canned food, snack food such as granola)

The event will take place at American Legion Post No. 334, located at 15 Elizabeth Street, Floral Park, NY 11001

Donations will go to the Disaster Relief Initiative in Freeport, St. Francis De Sales and Beach 95th Street, Rockaway. Bring a donation and listen to some music!

Long Island Business Council to hold "Help Small Businesses Post-Sandy" worksession on December 11th

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On Tuesday, December 11th from 8:00am to 10:00am, The Long Island Business Council will be holding a worksession at the Sustainability Institute at Molloy College. The breakfast session will feature Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, along with government and business updates from Bill Schoolman, Classic Coach & Hampton Luxury Coach MTA Lawsuit Update; Scott Martella, Office of NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo; Dr. Nathalia Rogers, American Communities Institute at Dowling College; and NYS Assemblymen-elect Chad Lupinacci and Ed Hennessy.

Long Island Business Council is a group of small business leaders who are dedicated to regulatory relief, tax and utility stabilization for the average small business owner in addition to infrastructure investment towards our downtowns. They take our message to Albany and Washington as part of the Long Island Lobby Coalition and other regional initiatives.

More information is available on the flyer here. The session is complementary to LIBC members and Vision Long Island supporters and $45 for others. To RSVP, please call 877-811-7471 or email ck@visionlongisland.org with "LIBC RSVP" in the subject line.

Hicksville Gardens Civic Association conducting Hurricane Sandy Toy Drive December 11th through 15th

The Hicksville Gardens Civic Association, a local organization which works to improve the quality of life for the Hicksville community by encouraging community awareness, participation and civic pride, will be holding a toy drive to help Long Island children who lost everything due to Hurricane Sandy.

New unwrapped toys are being collected Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm at Furst Class Grooming Salon 603 Hicksville Road, Bethpage.  

If you have any questions you may contact the Community Service committee person, Denise Steinhardt at (516) 822-2844 hgcivic.org.

HOPE NOW to host a homeowner assistance event for Hurricane Sandy victims on December 15th

A broad partnership of mortgage industry companies, HUD-approved, nonprofit housing counselors, insurance companies and local partners is coming together to help all homeowners in the region and lead them down the road to recovery.

HOPE NOW, an alliance between counselors, mortgage companies, investors, and other mortgage market participants that maximize outreach efforts to homeowners in distress, is partnering with the NY State Attorney General’s Office, mortgage servicers, insurance companies and other to host a comprehensive housing event on December 15th on Long Island. The event will be held at the Joseph M. Barry Career and Technical Education Center in Westbury from 10am until 7pm. This event will give struggling homeowners affected by Hurricane Sandy the ability to speak with their servicer or non-profit housing counselor and receive information about the insurance claims process for damage that may have occurred during the storm. The event is completely free to homeowners.  

Families attending this event will be able to meet with their mortgage servicer regarding their mortgage and insurance as it relates to disaster relief, with a HUD-approved, non-profit housing counselor for options involving disaster relief and housing assistance tools, and meet with a representative from the insurance industry to see what the claims process entails.

Please bring the following, if available: monthly mortgage statement, Information about other mortgages on your home, documentation of all income, all property insurance documents.

This is a free event, with free parking as well, and no registration is required. For more information, please refer to the flier.

Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities to host James Howard Kunstler talk on January 6th

The Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities (SPLIA), a non-profit organization dedicated to understanding, celebrating, and preserving Long Island’s cultural heritage, is hosting James Howard Kunstler’s talk on Rescuing the American Township from its Own Recent History in January.

Kunstler, a vocal critic of placeless architecture and urban planning, is the author of several books - including The Geography of Nowhere and Home From Nowhere - that challenge us to rethink how communities can be built by drawing on successful historic precedents. The talk will be on January 6, 2013 at 3:00pm at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s Grace Auditorium. Admission is $20 and reservations are required, to reserve a seat or for further information please call (631) 692-4664 (weekdays only).

Help Wanted

Intern with Vision Long Island!

Vision Long Island is looking for interns! 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 Fall 2012 Internship in the subject heading. For more information, call our office at 631-261-0242.

Theatre Listings

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:
Guest Rental: Mixed Nuts - A Classic Holiday Nutcracker... with a Twist! - Friday, December 7th & Saturday, December 8th at 7:00 pm & Sunday, December 9th at 2:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

The YMCA Boulton Center
37 West Main Street, Bay Shore:
Savoy Brown featuring Kim Simmonds - Saturday, December 8th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Guildhall, John Drew Theater
158 Main Street, East Hampton:
Guest Rental: Hampton Ballet theatre School presents The Nutcracker - Friday, December 7th & Saturday, December 8th at 7:00 pm, Saturday December 8th at 1:00 pm & Sunday, December 9th at 2:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Landmark on Main Street, the Jeanne Rimsky Theater
232 Main Street, Port Washington:
Raul Malo in Concert - Friday, December 7th & Saturday, December 8th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here


Patchogue Theater for the Performing Arts
71 East Main Street, Patchogue:
The Nutcracker Suite - Saturday, December 8th & Sunday, December 9th at 1:00 & 7:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

The Paramount
370 New York Ave, Huntington:
Marina and the Diamonds - Friday, December 7th at 8:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Theatre Three
412 Main Street, Port Jefferson:
A Christmas Carol - Friday, December 7th at 10:30 am & 8:00 pm, Saturday, December 8th at 3:00 & 8:00 pm, Sunday December 9th at 3:00 & 7:00 pm
Friday Night Face Off - Friday, December 7th at 10:30 pm
Barnaby Saves Christmas - Saturday, December 8th at 11:00 am
Comedy Club @ Theatre Three - Saturday, December 8th at 10:30 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Vail-Leavitt Music Hall
18 Peconic Avenue, Riverhead:
No shows this weekend.
Tickets and more information available here

The John W. Engeman Theater
250 Main Street, Northport:
A Christmas Carol - Friday, December 7th at 8:00 pm, Saturday, December 8th at 3:00 & 8:00 pm, Sunday December 9th at 2:00 & 7:00 pm
Tickets and more information available here

Museums

Museums in or near Long Island downtowns:

The Garden City Historical Society
109 Eleventh Street, Garden City
Founded in 1975, The Garden City Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the historic character and ambiance of the Village of Garden City, and educating its members and the public in preservation and history related matters. The Society owns and operates The Garden City Historical Society Museum at 109 Eleventh Street, an original 1872 A.T. Stewart-era “Apostle House” listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which was deeded to the Society by the Episcopal Diocese. The Society maintains an Archive of over 1,200 artifacts and a Historic Structure Survey of pre-1935 residential and non-residential structures in the Village of Garden City. It offers periodic lectures and presentations, and publishes a newsletter. The Society’s A. T. Stewart Exchange (consignment shop) on the lower level of the Museum offers unique items for sale. The shop (516-746-8900) is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays (Tuesday is senior citizen discount day) and from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

For information, visit their website.

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

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 Museum
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, visit their website or 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.

Movies

Nassau

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

bellmore
Bellmore Movies

222 Pettit Avenue, Bellmore
516-783-7200

glen cove
Glen Cove Theatres

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

great neck
Clearview Squire Cinemas Great Neck

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

long beach
Long Beach Cinema

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

manhasset
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

roslyn
Clearview Roslyn Theatre

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

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

Suffolk

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

huntington
AMC Loews Theatres – Shore 8

37 Wall Street, Huntington
888-262-4386
amctheatres.com

cinema arts centre
Cinema Arts Centre

423 Park Ave, Huntington
631-423-7611
cinemaartscentre.org

islip
Islip Cinemas

410 West Main Street, Islip
631-581-5200


Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center
20 Terry Street Suite #121, Patchogue, NY 11772
631-438-0083
plazamac.org

sayville
Sayville Theatre

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

 

 

Smart Talk

Newsletter Editors: Christopher Kyle, Program Coordinator; Michelle Dutchen, Communications Director
Contributors: Tawaun Weber, Assistant Director; Tara Klein, Policy Director
Elissa Ward, Sustainability Director; Lucy Ayala, Program Assistant

We strive to provide continued quality publications such as this each week. If you have any news or events that you would like to add to our newsletter, submit them to info@visionlongisland.org for consideration.

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Vision Long Island
24 Woodbine Ave., Suite Two
Northport, NY 11768
Phone: 631-261-0242. Fax: 631-754-4452.
Email: info@visionlongisland.org

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