Achievements
April 6th, 2024
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Held at Nissequogue Middle School, St. James Jr. Idol spotlighted the incredible talent within our own backyard. Performers ranged in age from just 5 years old to over 55, demonstrating that creativity knows no age limit.
The enthusiasm from both performers and audiences was so overwhelming that a second performance was added due to popular demand. The event celebrated courage, artistry, and community spirit — embodying the inclusive and uplifting mission of Celebrate St. James. |
Celebrate Park
Groundbreaking Ceremony Brings Another First to Lake Avenue
On November 4, 2020 Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim and the Town Board met for a Groundbreaking Ceremony for “Celebrate Park” at the site of the former Irish Viking Bar on Lake Avenue in St. James. This park, spearheaded by Natalie Weinstein, former President of Celebrate St. James, will become the centerpiece of the Historic St. James Cultural and Arts District as a central meeting place with new off-street parking, for a revitalized economic community. It will celebrate our hometown heroes, our art, music, history, and culture.
It will be built by donations from the people of St. James and will stand as a testament to what local government, community minded organizations, and hometown residents can accomplish together. Designed by Robert Retnauer, President of RDA Landscape Architecture, with the assistance of Architect Michael Morbillo of Enspire Design Group, and Designer Natalie Weinstein of Natalie Weinstein Design Associates, “Celebrate Park” will offer many ways for people, companies and organizations to “own” a part of it. From purchases of the 2021-22 keepsake “Hometown Heroes” calendar, to inscribed bricks, to major item donations. All donations are welcome.
Park designed by Bob Retnauer, RLA, ASLA, Principal, RDA Landscape Architecture, PC, Michael Morbillo, AIA, LEED AP, ENSPIRE Design Group, and Natalie Weinstein, Allied ASID, IDS, Natalie Weinstein Design Associates.
It will be built by donations from the people of St. James and will stand as a testament to what local government, community minded organizations, and hometown residents can accomplish together. Designed by Robert Retnauer, President of RDA Landscape Architecture, with the assistance of Architect Michael Morbillo of Enspire Design Group, and Designer Natalie Weinstein of Natalie Weinstein Design Associates, “Celebrate Park” will offer many ways for people, companies and organizations to “own” a part of it. From purchases of the 2021-22 keepsake “Hometown Heroes” calendar, to inscribed bricks, to major item donations. All donations are welcome.
Park designed by Bob Retnauer, RLA, ASLA, Principal, RDA Landscape Architecture, PC, Michael Morbillo, AIA, LEED AP, ENSPIRE Design Group, and Natalie Weinstein, Allied ASID, IDS, Natalie Weinstein Design Associates.
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Watch the Groundbreaking Ceremony.
Celebrate Park Dedication
October 18, 2020
Park designed by: Bob Retnauer, RLA, ASLA, Principal, RDA Landscape Architecture, PC, Michael Morbillo, AIA, LEED AP, ENSPIRE Design Group, Natalie Weinstein, Allied ASID, IDS, Natalie Weinstein Design Associates.
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99 MINUTES FROM BROADWAY
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This original musical production, written by Natalie Weinstein and produced by Jack Ader, brought the community together for an unforgettable theatrical experience at Nissequogue Middle School.
The production celebrated the rich history of St. James, highlighting the remarkable luminaries who lived, worked, and summered here. Featuring outstanding local talent both on stage and behind the scenes, the show was met with rave applause and deep community pride. 99 Minutes from Broadway was a shining example of how storytelling, music, and history can unite generations while honoring the cultural roots of our town. |
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In Spring 2019, Lake Avenue was transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery when it was closed to traffic for the first-ever Art Walk. Hundreds of visitors filled the streets to experience and celebrate the extraordinary talent of local artists.
The event created an atmosphere of creativity and connection, with artwork displayed throughout the district, drawing families, neighbors, and visitors together. Art Walk demonstrated the powerful role the arts play in revitalizing community spaces and supporting local creators. |
May 5th, 2019
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At the opening of Art Walk in 2019, Ed Wehrheim officially read a proclamation designating Lake Avenue as a Historic Arts District.
This milestone moment marked a turning point for Celebrate St. James and the broader St. James community. The proclamation formally recognized the growing artistic and cultural impact of the organization and affirmed the importance of preserving and celebrating the area’s rich creative heritage. It was more than a ceremonial gesture — it launched a new chapter of visibility, validation, and momentum for the arts in St. James, laying the groundwork for the growth and transformation still unfolding today. |
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A true community collaboration, the Celebrate St. James 18-Month Calendar showcased many of the historic buildings that define St. James’ character and charm.
The calendar featured rare archival photographs and detailed historical insights provided by Tom Austner Beal, paired with both past and present-day photography by Jack Ader. Generously supported by local businesses, the calendar became an instant success — selling out quickly and remaining in high demand long after its official run had ended. It served not only as a practical keepsake but as a beautiful tribute to the architectural and historical legacy of our community. |
January 2018 - June 2019
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