Thank you to all who served. In honor of Veterans Day 2023 we offer deep gratitude, good resources and indelibly moving stories.
Continue readingDear Veterans: Thank You For Your Service
Shop Local! Lighting the Northport Leg Lamp…
How one village gets lit, including a Shopping Guide starring the merchants who light the Northport Leg Lamp!
Continue readingSold Out Story Slam Lights Up The Firefly!!!
Pictured, from left to right, Firefly Katie Laible and story slam host Liz Alexander with storytellers Katrina Buyers, Eric Eaton, Annie Mark, Glenn Perreira, Karen Paquet and Eric Alexander. Photo by Joanne Kountarikis, Northport Journal
Story Slam at The Firefly! "I Had a Hunch..."
Inspired by The Moth radio hour, Elizabeth Alexander has been organizing storytelling events in Northport Village and the surrounding area for the past few years. In this, she is creating opportunities for the community to connect and be inspired.
Moth-style storytelling is a genre of personal narrative stories about an experience that took place in the storyteller’s life. It was such a pleasure to finally get to host this amazing event at the Firefly. What a way to get to know our neighbors!
This one kicked off with a spaghetti dinner and a hunch, rose into the astral plane, and told stories of angels who made themselves known. There was a one-woman motorcycle tour of the country and what happened when she dared to trust a stranger, a story about standing up for who you are, even if reluctantly, and a growing questioning of everything.
We are blessed to have multiple sources of local media that care about and cover our Village. The Northport Journal is particularly focused on appreciating neighbors who go out of their way to make the world a better place for everyone. Last weekend, they quoted reader David Rivera in reporting on the event on social media:
“Let’s give three cheers to Elizabeth Alexander! Last night, Liz hosted Northport’s third Moth-like story slam in just over two years. Yet again, she did a tremendous amount of heavy lifting to find a venue, to recruit a half-dozen brave souls willing to tell personal stories, and to market the event so well that Slam 3.0 was a standing-room-only event, with proceeds going to Students for 60,000 and The Firefly Artists on Main Street.
Liz is one of many people who make Northport a great place to live. Next time you see her, please tell her so.”
She really is. <3
Want to be ready for the next one? They’ve announced the next theme, which was chosen by the audience: “Coincidences.”
Join Northport Village Moth-Style Storytelling Facebook Page for info on upcoming events!
Got a story you’re not quite sure how to tell? You’re not alone! Liz is helping folks find their voices by organizing online workshops with an excellent teacher of this fine craft. Stay tuned for details!
Heroes Among Us: “Hey, I Know That Guy…”
Heroes Among Us. You may recall that we hosted a show of previously unshared works by Photojournalist Peter Foley. Soon after it opened, Firefly Steve Walker came in and saw his neighbor.
Story Slam at The Firefly!!!
Story Slam at The Firefly! "I Had a Hunch..."
Inspired by The Moth radio hour, Elizabeth Alexander has been organizing storytelling events in Northport Village and the surrounding area, In this, she is creating opportunities for the community to connect and be inspired.
They’ve been fantastic. What a way to get to know our neighbors! We’re thrilled to host the next one at The Firefly!
Moth-style storytelling is a genre of personal narrative stories about an experience that took place in the storyteller’s life. Stories are crafted, planned- and told, not read-before a live audience. It’s a wonderful art form that allows folks to connect with community at a very human level.
Join us: Saturday, October 21st from 7:15-11pm.
The theme: “I Had a Hunch….”
Proceeds will benefit: Students for 60,000 and The Firefly Artists.
Get your tickets here. Storytellers still wanted! Learn more here.
Tribute to “Our Heroes” by Peter Foley at the Firefly
These images from September 11th and immediate aftermath, collectively titled “Our Heroes,” are on view at The Firefly Artists at 90 Main Street in Northport through 9/14. This is just a small piece of an incredibly moving collection captured by photojournalist Peter Foley…
We of The Firefly Artists are honored to host this special window exhibition entitled, “Our Heroes.”
This show of works by photojournalist Peter Foley honors the NYC Firefighters who ran in to do what they could in the aftermath of 9/11.
It’s kind of nice the way we were able to tuck it in at our westernmost window. A few pieces face inward, a few out. It provides good space for quiet reflection.
May these pieces remind us that, no matter how bad things get, there are those among us who will run in to give all they have to make them better.
May we ever honor and care for the heroes. May we ever arc toward our most noble ideals. May we live to be worthy of such sacrifice…
Images are available for purchase. You may find Synchronicity’s own tribute to that day here.
Firefly Reception at Northport Library!
Come to the Reception Thursday, 5/18 for a Firefly Pop-up Show at the Northport-East Northport Public Library!
Continue readingBLUE Reception 5/6, Other Great Events With The Firefly!
There’s a reception this Saturday at The Firefly for a beautiful show called BLUE, a lovely exhibition we’ve flown together at our local library, and more!
Continue readingFirefly Lights: April 2023, Part II
Thank you for making us the 2023 Best Art Gallery on Long Island and for all you do to support local art and artists.
Welcome to the latest edition of Firefly Lights, all about our beautiful downtown gallery of local art and artists. In this edition, please find:
– TODAY! Kindred Spirits: An exhibition and reception celebrating teachers and students
– DEADLINE TODAY! Call to Artists: BLUE
– 4/25 Artist Talk with Renee Reichert, Illustrator of “The Cat Came Back”
– Classes on illustration with Renee Reichert and jewelry making with Rachel Kalina
– THANK YOU! A networking event celebrating folks in Human Services honoring Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds
Art Reception: Kindred Spirits
Kindred Spirits are people who share common interests, values or even world views. There is a common bond that joins them together. In this case, our exhibition focuses on the bond of art.
We are honored to once again offer “Kindred Spirits,” an annual special exhibition of artwork by Long Island Art Educators and their present or former students. It’s beautiful.
Exhibition Dates: 4/3-4/28
Reception TODAY: Saturday, 4/22 3-5pm
Our love for students and teachers is always on view. Did you know we regularly showcase “Students of the Month,” nominated by teachers island-wide? Come see!!!
DEADLINE TODAY! Call to Artists: BLUE
If you see a tree as BLUE, then make it BLUE. -Paul Gauguin.
This juried exhibition celebrates the color blue, whether used as seen in nature, or following Gauguin’s inspiration.
Artists are invited to submit artwork that primarily features shades of blue (50% or more of the image). Maximum outside frame size is 24 inches. All original media are acceptable, such as drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, mixed media, sculpture, collage, fabric work, glasswork, jewelry and digital media.
Submission Deadline: 4/22/23
Exhibition Dates: 5/1/23-5/31/23
Reception: Saturday, 5/6 3-5pm
For Details and Application: Visit our website
Be sure to submit a .jpeg image of the work you are submitting with the completed application. Works must be delivered and picked up in person.
Acceptance notice will be EMAILED on 4/24.
Contact: events@thefireflyartists.com
Arstist Talk: Making "The Cat Came Back"
Join us for this free event. Award-winning artist and illustrator Renee Reichert will discuss the making of “The Cat Came Back”
What: The Making of The Cat Came Back with Renee Reichert
When: 4/25/23, 6pm
Cost: FREE – No registration required
THEN, in May, Renee will offer a two-part class exploring the fine art of illustration, which ranges considerably as there are so many ways to put pictures to words. Participants will then create their own works of art:
What: Introduction to Illustration
When: May 6 and 13 from 9:30-11am
Cost: $100, materials provided by student
To Register: Contact Renee at reneereichert@icloud.com
Jewelry Making Classes!
Firefly Rachel Morgan Kalina has been creating The Wood & Watch jewelry since 2007. She’s taught at The Art League of Long Island, Firefly, Socrates Sculpture Park, and elsewhere. With offerings ranging from simple, one-afternoon experiences to in-depth training, Rachel prides herself on providing encouragement and individualized attention.
Check these out and then email her to set a date!
Metal Stamping
Customize a pendant with words by hammering steel letters onto metal. One-and-a-half hours/one session $75
Beginner Metalsmithing
Create a pendant or earrings in copper or brass with a jeweler’s saw. (There are no torches in this class) Four hours/two sessions $215
Basic Soldering: Stacking Rings or Stud Earrings
Use a torch to make minimalist sterling silver stacking rings or stud earrings. Three hours/one session $170
Advanced Soldering and Stone Setting
Take your silversmithing to the next level by building a ring or pendant from scratch. Discover how to set a gemstone in a bezel. (“Beginner Metalsmithing” class with Rachel or previous experience required.) Ten hours/multiple sessionsv$400
All Classes include supplies and tool usage. Students must be at least age 18 (no exceptions).
Contact: thewoodandwatch@gmail.com | @thewoodandwatch
THANK YOU! Open Doors Reception: Jeff Reynolds
Thank you to all who came to this Synchronicity mixer, celebrating community and the healing power of art while connecting with folks in Health and Human Services. It was a wonderful gathering of folks who work in this field, and a number of folks who deeply appreciate them. Our guest of honor was Dr. Jeff Reynolds of the Family and Children’s Association.
You can read an article Firefly Katheryn Laible wrote with Jeff here.
About the Firefly Artists
Come to our beautiful new location, The Old Hardware Store at 90 Main Street, in Northport!
***NEW HOURS***
Mon-Wed 11am-6pm
Thurs-Sat 11am-9pm
Sun 11am-5pm
The Firefly was established in 2011 to create a gallery setting for local artists. The goal was to create a space where artists could meet, collaborate, and sell their beautiful creations.
Over more than a decade, We have had the great privilege to display a stunning variety of work by well over 400 artists through our Main Street locations and pop-up galleries. We boast extraordinary talent, while maintaining a very down to earth and supportive atmosphere that is unique to Long Island.
In 2020 we expanded our offerings to create the Darcy Arts Center, featuring special exhibitions and classes in addition to the rich selection of works by our resident artists. While we are adjusting to our new space, we are thrilled to be able to continue these expanded offerings, right in the center of everything!
Every time you purchase something from The Firefly Artists you support at least one local artist. Come, experience our beautiful gallery, and bring home that perfect thing to brighten your world or someone else’s!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check our website for all the latest updates!
Thank you for your support!
Shop Local! Northport…
Shop Downtown! Shop Northport! An old photo by Katheryn Laible Much has changed. Much is still the same…
Downtown Northport is basically a 1/4 mile of historic village that starts with lovely restaurants and a world-class theater, and ends with a waterfront park featuring landmark gazebos, and a beautiful playground. In between reside a whole host of lovely spots.
Here’s a starter guide, including links to websites and a little bit of what makes these places cool. Like so many small business, our neighbor shops do SO MUCH for our communities ALL THE TIME.
They donate to local events, local charities and individual causes. They sponsor sports teams and often roll up their sleeves to offer their time and energy as well. They give local artists a chance and give of themselves every day to labors of love that are often each themselves delighful galleries of unique gifts, sustenance and experience…
These particular shops helped us out when we took on the Northport Leg Lamp lighting at the last possible second, and realized even later that we needed fund professional lighting. I hardly had time to even pass by all the folks I wanted to ask. The care and generosity of those I did encounter was incredible. I also managed a fantastic bit of holiday shopping in delightful atmospheres, finding quality presents for not nearly as much as you might think.
A Sampling of Northport Treasures
Shipwreck Diner: (46 Main Street) First of all, this trolly car of a breakfast joint embedded in Main Street is iconic and delicious. Second of all, every time we turn around they’re doing something wonderful for their neighbors.
The John W. Engeman Theater (250 Main Street) is a premier year-round professional theater that casts its actors directly from the Broadway talent pool. The venue features stadium-style seating, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, and a “Lobby Bar and Lounge.” Since 2007, they have produced 80 Main Stage Productions of some of Broadway’s finest musicals and plays, and have proudly opened their doors for numerous special events and fundraisers for various organizations.
Skippers: (34 Main Street) Family owned and operated since 1978, Skippers has long been a staple of the Nothport Community. Recently remodeled, they offer waterfront dining featuring inspiring Northport Harbor views. It’s a memorable dining experience of coastal Long Island dishes with chef-driven cuisine and a modern design.
Jackie Shawn Salon: (110 Main Street) Come, de-stress and beautify. The feel of the place is a step out of time. The skill with hair and makeup is here and now. The people are lovely.
Jones Drug Store (100 Main Street) has served Northport for over a century! In addition all your pharmaceutical needs they have a lovely gift shop that, among other thing, includes gorgeous Northport-themed shirts and hats. There are authentic model boats and nautical gifts, flags, hand painted bird houses, and much more.
Northport Historical Society (215 Main Street) is housed in an old Carnegie Library. They offer incredible programming and are where you can find and purchase amazing old photos.
Coquus Book Store (MOVING to 90C Washington Dr. in Centerport this May!) This is the perfect place to shop for your favorite chef!
Changing Tides Consignment: (Formerly Helgas, 139 Main Street) Happy Retirement Helga! Welcome Denise! Read about the carefully planned changes at Northport’s treasured thrift shop here.
Harbor View Jewelers: (260 Main Street) A 4th generation jeweler with an excellent reputation for honesty, integrity, and the finest customer service in the industry. They love to work one-on-one to meet your individual style and develop your ideas into the perfect, treasured piece of jewelry.
Harbor House Restaurant: (78 Main Street) Northport’s newest restaurant in a cozy historical venue. It’s a modern seafood restaurant with warm atmosphere and outdoor dining in season. The friendly, attentive staff offers chef inspired seasonal fare, always fresh, and a variety of seafood, homemade ravioli, burgers and many specials to choose from.
Main Street Café: (47 Main Street) Come taste Long Island’s best burger, as chosen by readers of Newsday! Its owner for 16 years, Darin Parker, is so community oriented she was selected by the Times Beacon Record News Media as a Person of the Year. In addition to providing the Leg Lamp for the years Carl’s Candy hosted the event, Darin served as the first vice president of the Northport Chamber of Commerce as well as a fundraising organizer, and she hosts trips to Broadway shows for Northport Village residents. She is also a major supporter of events and foundations including St. Baldrick’s, Relay for Life, Adopt a Family and Strides for Cancer.
Salted on the Harbor: (70 Main Street) Proprietor & Sommelier Lindsay Ostrander has been in the restaurant industry since she was 14 years old. Wanting “Northport to be a stamp on the map for restaurants too,” she and her family designed Salted to round out what they felt was missing in Northport Village. Their Chef Anthony has a resume with some of the best locations around, such as Park Place, Nisen Sushi, Matteo’s, just to name a few. With a little help from their friend Doug Brickell, of the famed Cork & Kerry, their beverage savant, they bring to you carefully crafted cocktails & spirits, as well as craft beer and amazing wines chosen by the Owner/Sommelier, who for the past decade has also happened to own:
The Wine Cellar on Main: (70 Main Street) Sommelier chosen wines by the glass & bottle, local craft beer, tapas & dine in menus from sister location SALTED. on the Harbor and Maroni Cuisine (currently on Wednesdays and Thursdays). The bar is also a fine art gallery. There is Live Music Thursday- Sunday- Follow them on instagram and facebook for their weekly line up!
Artisan House: (80 Main Street) This treasure trove of unique gifts is celebrating 50 years in Northport, and one year with their new owners, Ron and Randi. They have baby items, jewelry, glassware, candles, souvenirs, nautical gifts, windchimes and more. They’re also one of the few places on Main Street that routinely stay open late!
Indigo room: (146 Main Street) Proprietor Kim is a deeply spiritual artist and a curator….the place is just…so…cool….Come, find a bit of poetry, a zen garden, perhaps a bit of indigo ink….Sage and holi sticks, beautiful, clever things she’s found, created and been inspired by…the place is a treasure for the body mind and soul…
Nest on Main (135 Main Street) is a home decor marketplace that features many talented local artisans and creative entrepreneurs, including interior design experts who are delighted to help you feather your nest. Learn about them on their website, take one of their wonderful workshops, or just come on in and delight in their many and varied offerings.
The Window Shop Jewelers (104 Main Street) is dedicated to fulfilling customers’ dreams and to providing objects of consummate beauty and lasting value. Shop here for fine jewelry or timepieces, famous collections, exciting new designers and lines waiting to be discovered. Proprietor Jean McNeill and staff personally guide visitors through a breadth of selections…karat gold and sterling…diamonds, precious and semiprecious stones, pearls, vintage and contemporary pieces and more…jewelry for virtually every occasion…and every price point.
Bohemiac Boutique: (54 Woodbine Ave) She started as an Instagram sensation, now she’s got a beautiful brick and mortar location selling her clothing and accessories right on Woodbine. It’s so Northport, in a low key chic kind of way with a little bit of an edge…perfect for mother-daughter and best friend shopping. Plus, her Christmas Tree is amazing.
Gunthers: (81 Main Street) Northport’s iconic watering hole, famed for being one of the places Jack Kerouac never wrote a word. Check out the website for their music lineup.
Hengstenberg’s Florist (39 Main Street) has been serving the Gold Coast North Shore for over 30 years, with a commitment to bringing their customers exceptional floral arrangements, award-winning designs and unsurpassed service.
Hydrangea Home (67 Main Street) is an artful lifestyle shoppe with a casual, laid-back aesthetic that features fragrance, bath and body, florals, art and photography, jewelry and home decor. It all began in 1995 out of the converted garage of Dawn Mohrmann, whose husband and 4 kids first supported the endeavor by helping out at home. Now, the grown children each contribute to its handmade products in the shoppe while Fred handles all of the assembling, building, etc. In addition to so many pieces literally made “in-house” there are many others they just couldn’t resist sourced from other small businesses, local and around the world.
The Jewelry Collection (75 Main Street) offers a unique and beautiful collection of gifts ranging from candy to jewelry to home decor. There are items for babies and men, too! The stock is always changing and equipped to help you find something for everyone at any occasion.
Sweet Arts: (105 Main Street) With an old fashioned candy store up front and a party space in the back, this crafty establishment is one of Northport’s newest family-oriented treasures. They offer birthday parties, creative space, a lovely candy shop and even a you and me group intended to support caretakers as much as their kids. Check their website for event dates.
Maroni Cuisine: (18 Woodbine Avenue) First of all, the meatballs are legendary…but it’s more than that. Their about page will tell you “Love Wins”…that “Maroni cuisine is so unique it is difficult to describe but a pleasure to experience”…that eat in or take out, they aim to make you feel at home, that “We offer no formal menu. We break the rules.” It is absolutely delicious…
Einstein’s Attic: (79 Main Street) A longtime Northport treasure of a toy shop, Einstein’s Attic is “a specialty store where imagination can take you anywhere.” Proprietor Lori Badanes is always on the hunt to expand and offer her tremendous selection of amazing toys for children of all ages – including LOTS of very cool educational toys. She is also always willing to do something new and creative with the community.
Elements of Home (91 Main Street) offers an eclectic mix of out of the ordinary gift ideas, along with new ideas in home decor. Their ever-changing merchandise will meet your needs and desires for each season, as well as those special occasions to be celebrated throughout the year.
Heartichoke: (145 Main Street) Often described as “absolutely magical” and an “earthy delight,” here you can find gifts, crystals, incense, candles, home, garden, jewelry, and accessories.
Penny & Cooper: (154 Main Street) Inspired by the power of scent to create a mood, evoke a memory or relax us, mother-daughter team Donna and Katie established this bath, body home store in 2017. They handcraft their products in small batches with love & care, using only high-quality and natural ingredients. They move with the season, celebrate our village and create a wonderful atmosphere.
Martoni Italian Eatery (245 Main Street) offers warm grilled panini sandwiches, signature salads, italian gelato, espresso, and cappuccino, as well as imported goods direct from Italy, such as olive oils, balsamic oils, pasta, olives, mushrooms, and much mo.
How blessed are we to have these folks? Go! Keep them in business for decades to come. It’s totally worth it!
Shop Local - Island Wide
Please pop in and buy from these folks. Then, as you go along, make notice the sponsor listings of other events and such that you see. Make time to visit those places. Thank them for making our communities special by supporting their work, too. It feels good!
You might also like to check out this: Our readers’ choices of favorite shops across Long Island. We always welcome updates!
