As part of “The Great Give Back” through Suffolk County libraries, Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will hold a Pet Food Drive throughthe month of October. They will be accepting new pet supplies (food, blankets, leashes, etc) in the Library lobby. All are welcome to donate (residents or non-residents) during Library hours. Library teen volunteers will then drop off the donated items at various locations. Questions? Call 631-941-4080.
Eczema is more common in women than it is in men. METRO photo
Treatments are continually evolving
By David Dunaief, M.D.
Dr. David Dunaief
The causes of eczema are unknown, but it is thought that nature and nurture are both at play (1). Essentially, it is a chronic inflammatory process that involves symptoms of rashes, itching, pain and redness (2).
It’s estimated that over seven percent of the U.S. adult population suffers from eczema (3), with twice as many females as males affected (4).
While there is no cure, there are treatments its symptoms. These range from over-the-counter creams and lotions to prescription steroid creams to oral steroids and injectable biologics. Antihistamines can also be used to treat itchiness. Some use phototherapy for severe cases, but research on its effectiveness is scant. Interestingly, lifestyle, specifically diet, may play an important role.
Two separate studies have shown an association between eczema and fracture risk, which we will investigate further.
Let’s look at the evidence.
Does diet play a role?
Eczema is more common in women than it is in men. METRO photo
In a Japanese study involving over 700 pregnant women and their offspring, results showed that when the women ate either a diet high in green and yellow vegetables, beta carotene or citrus fruit there was a significant reduction in the risk of the child having eczema of 59 percent, 48 percent and 47 percent, respectively, when comparing highest to lowest consumption quartiles (5).
Elimination diets may also play a role. One study’s results showed when eggs were removed from the diet in those who were allergic, according to IgE testing, eczema improved significantly (6).
From an anecdotal perspective, I have seen very good results when treating patients who have eczema with dietary changes. My patient population includes about 15 to 20 percent of patients who suffer some level of eczema. For example, a young adult had eczema mostly on the extremities. When I first met the patient, these were angry, excoriated, erythematous and scratched lesions. However, after several months of a vegetable-rich diet, the patient’s skin significantly improved.
What about supplements?
There are two well-known supplements for helping to reduce inflammation, evening primrose oil and borage oil. Are these supplements a good replacement for – or addition to – medications? The research is really mixed, leaning toward ineffective – and with some important concerns.
In a meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials, evening primrose oil was no better than placebo in treating eczema (7). The researchers also looked at eight studies of borage oil and found there was no difference from placebo in terms of symptom relief. While these supplements only had minor side effects in the study, they can interact with other medications. For example, evening primrose oil in combination with aspirin can cause clotting problems (8).
The upshot? Don’t expect supplements to provide significant help. If you do try them, be sure to consult with your physician first.
Biologics
Injectable biologics are among the newest treatments and are generally recommended when other treatment options have failed (9). There are two currently approved by the FDA, dupilumab and tralokinumab-ldrm, with the latter recently approved in December 2021.
In trials, these injectable drugs showed good results, improving outcomes for moderate to severe eczema sufferers when topical steroids alone were not effective. Like any drug therapy, it does have side effects.
Deeper impacts of eczema
Eczema may be related to broken bones, according to several studies. For example, one observational study of 34,500 patients showed that those with eczema had a 44 percent increased risk of injury causing limitation and an even more disturbing 67 percent risk of bone fracture and bone or joint injury for those 30 years and older (10).
And if you have both fatigue or insomnia and eczema, you are at higher risk for bone or joint injury than having one or the other alone. The researchers postulated that the use of corticosteroids in treatment could be one reason for increased fracture risk, in addition to chronic inflammation, which may also contribute to the risk of bone loss.
Steroids may weaken bone, ligaments and tendons and may cause osteoporosis by decreasing bone mineral density.
A recently published study of over 500,000 patients tested this theory and found that the association between major osteoporotic fractures and atopic eczema remained, even after adjusting for a range of histories with oral corticosteroids (11). Also, fracture rates were higher in those with severe atopic eczema.
For those who have eczema, it may be wise to have a DEXA (bone) scan.
Eczema exists on a spectrum from annoying to significantly affecting a patient’s quality of life (12). Supplements may not be the solution, at least not borage oil or evening primrose oil. However, there may be promising medications for the hard to treat. It might be best to avoid long-term systemic steroid use, because of the long-term side effects. Lifestyle modifications appear to be very effective, at least at the anecdotal level.
Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com.
The Beo String Quartet at Sept. 24 concert.
Photo from The Atelier at Flowerfield
On September 24 the Atelier at Flowerfield hosted a “Pop Up” concert featuring the Beo String Quartet. The quartet was presented by the Three Village Chamber Players.
By crafting original music and projects, engaging listeners through entertainment and thoughtful demonstration, collaborating with living composers, performing quartet masterpieces in a wide array of settings, and exploring technology’s capacity as a musical and social tool, Beo is expanding the role of chamber musicians in today’s global culture. Now in its seventh season, Beo has performed over 100 concert works in the US and Europe–including over 45 world premieres.
Music education outreach is essential to the quartet’s vision. Beo has earned a reputation for its thoughtfully-crafted educational shows. Although disguised as entertainment, each show is designed to teach real chamber music skills and a love for classical music to students ranging from complete beginners to pre-professionals. Through its educational tours of elementary, middle, and high schools, short-term residencies at colleges and universities, and its annual residency at Dakota Chamber Music, Beo has shared these unique, engaging experiences with more than 3,500 students to date.
The mission of The Atelier at Flowerfield is to stimulate and enhance appreciation of the arts on Long Island and the greater NY metro area. To learn more about The Atelier at Flowerfield, go to https://theatelieratflowerfield.org or call 631-250-9009.
PSEG Long Island is monitoring the remnants of Hurricane Ian that may impact the service area Saturday through Monday and is following its pre-storm processes to handle any outages that may occur.
The weather front is expected to bring showers during the weekend, followed by wind gusts up to 45 mph, enough to possibly topple trees and bring down branches on wires.
“PSEG Long Island has been carefully tracking the remnants of Ian, and we encourage our customers to prepare,” said Mike Sullivan, vice president of Transmission and Distribution at PSEG Long Island. “As we watch the forecast, we have performed system and logistic checks, and have a full complement of personnel who can jump into storm mode if needed. In the event of any outages, our crews will work to safely restore service as quickly as conditions will allow.”
COVID-19-related storm processes remain in place to ensure the health and safety of employees and the public. To that end, PSEF LI asks that customers remain in their homes when crews are working nearby. If customers must speak with the crews, please practice responsible “physical distancing” and remain at least 6 feet away. For more information about how PSEG Long Island continues to live up to its commitment to safety during the pandemic, please visit www.psegliny.com/covid19.
Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Please stay away from them, and do not drive over or stand near them. It is best to maintain a distance of at least 30 feet from a downed power line. To report a downed wire, call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour Electric Service number at 800-490-0075 or call 911.
Electric current passes easily through water. If you encounter a pool of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path.
Never use a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside your home, basement, or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door, or vent. Use an extension cord that is more than 20 feet long to keep the generator at a safe distance.
Stay connected:
Download the PSEG Long Island mobile app to report outages and receive information on restoration times, crew locations and more.
Report an outage and receive status updates by texting OUT to PSEGLI (773454). You can also report your outage through our app, our website at www.psegliny.com/outages or with your voice using the Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant app on your smartphone.
To report an outage or downed wire, call PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour Electric Service number at 800-490-0075.
Follow PSEG Long Island on Facebook and Twitter to report an outage and for updates before, during and after the storm.
Visit PSEG Long Island’s MyPower map for the latest in outage info, restoration times and crew locations across Long Island and the Rockaways at https://mypowermap.psegliny.com/.
WMHO unveils a sensory garden in Stony Brook Village on Sept. 23. Photo from WMHO
Project at Stony Brook Mill Pond Park supported by PSEG Long Island
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) has announced that the newly restored Sensory Garden at the T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park has officially been planted, thanks to a sponsorship of $3,500 from PSEG Long Island. An officialunveiling was held on Sept. 23.
The Sensory Garden was originally created as a place where those who are sensory-impaired could enhance their independence and interact with nature in a special way, over ten years ago. David Seyfert, a Stony Brook resident, visual teacher and mobility instructor assisted in the selection of plants and suggested wind chimes to ensure all visitors could enjoy the park.
Among the many plants incorporated into the sensory garden are lambs ear and wooly thyme for its texture; lavender, hydrangea and dogwood for its smell; and pink muhly grass, Japanese maple and a collection of hen and chicks for sound.
“Originally, the sensory garden began small — a residential visually impaired woman would come here to smell the flowers, listen to the birds, and sit in peace. Over the years, especially the last few during the pandemic, this park and garden have given that same peace of mind to all of its visitors,” said Dr. Richard Rugen, Chairman of the WMHO.
“Thanks to PSEG-LI and the PSEG Foundation, our newly enhanced Sensory Garden can continue to be a place where everyone come to relax, enjoy and find peace. Tropical Storm Isaias caused incredible damage throughout the park in August of 2020. The first phase of restoration was completed in October of 2021. This marks the completion of phase two of the park’s restoration,” said Rugen.
To learn more about the WMHO, visit www.wmho.orgor call 631-751-2244.
While the arrival of the new Occupational Medicine Director and Chief Medical Officer at Brookhaven National Laboratory doesn’t involve late-night comedy, or a live studio audience, it does bring a medical doctor with a passion for bringing his rap and musical skills to a health care audience.
Dr. John Clarke. Photo from BN
Formerly the director of occupational medicine at Cornell University, Dr. Clarke joined the Department of Energy lab as Occupational Medicine Director and Chief Medical Officer for BNL in June..
“My role is to help maintain safety and wellness among the workers,” said Dr. Clarke. “If we have employees who start coming in for some sort of complaint and we see a pattern, that may help us identify who could be at risk of something we didn’t know about that we are detecting.”
A doctor who served as chief resident at New York Medical College in family residency and Harvard University in occupational & environmental medicine, Dr. Clarke said he plans to support a range of preventive efforts.
“I’m excited about the potential to engage in what’s considered primary prevention,” said Clarke, which he defined as preventing a disease from occurring in the first place.
Through primary prevention, he hopes to help the staff avoid developing chronic illnesses such as cancer, while also ensuring the health and responsiveness of their immune systems.
Through physical fitness, a plant-based diet including fruits and vegetables, adequate sleep and hydration with water, people can use lifestyle choices and habits to reduce their need for various medications and enable them to harness the ability of their immune systems to mount an effective response against any threat.
“Modifying your lifestyle is the therapy,” he said. “If you engage [in those activities] in the right way, that is the treatment.”
Dr. Clarke added that the severity and stage of a disease may impact the effectiveness of such efforts. For any vaccine and for the body’s natural immunity to work, people need a healthy immune system.
When Dr. Clarke practiced family medicine, he saw how patients lost weight through a diet that reduced the need for medication for diabetes and high blood pressure.
“Losing weight and staying active does provide a therapeutic impact, where you could be medication free,” he said.
To be sure, living a healthier lifestyle requires ongoing effort to maintain. After reaching a desired weight or cholesterol level, people can backslide into an unhealthier state or condition, triggering the occurrence or recurrence of a disease.
In the vast majority of cases, Clarke said, “you have to make a permanent lifestyle change” to avoid the need for pharmaceutical remedies that reduce the worst effects of disease.
BNL has an exercise physiologist on staff who “we hope to engage in consultations with employees,” said Clarke. He would like the exercise physiologist to go to the gym with staff to show them how to use equipment properly to get the maximum benefit.
BNL already has some classes and various initiatives that promote wellness. “One of the things we’d like to do is coordinate and try to publicize it enough where employees are aware” of the options available at the lab to live a healthier and balanced life, he added.
BNL also has a dietician on staff. Dr. Clarke has not worked with the dietician yet, but hopes it will be part of an upcoming initiative. As he and his staff respond to the demand, they will consider bringing on other consultants and experts to develop programs.
Covid concerns
Like others in his position in other large employers around Long Island, Dr. Clarke is focused on protecting workers from any ongoing threat from Covid-19.
“We’re still learning more as [SARS-CoV2, the virus that caused the pandemic] evolves,” he said. BNL does a “great job about monitoring the prevalence and the numbers of cases in Suffolk County and among workers.”
Dr. Clarke said he and others at BNL are following the Department of Energy, New York State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on these issues.
If the numbers of infections and hospitalizations increase in the coming months, as people move to more indoor activities, BNL may consider deploying a strategy where the lab provides more opportunities for staff to work remotely.
Prior to his arrival at BNL, Dr. Clarke worked as a consultant for a company that was looking to create numerous permanent jobs that were remote.
He suggested that workers need to remain aware of their remote surroundings and shouldn’t work near a furnace or any heater that might release dangerous gases like carbon monoxide.
Additionally, people should avoid working in areas that aren’t habitable, such as in an attic. Dr. Clarke urges people to notify and consult their employer if they have concerns about working safely at home or on site.
Music vs. medicine
A native of Queens who spent three years of his childhood in Barbados, Dr. Clarke attended Columbia University, where he majored in sociology and music while he was on a pre-med track.
While he was an undergraduate, Dr. Clarke wrote, produced and performed original music. An independent label was going to help secure a major label deal.
He chose to attend medical school at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Dr. Clarke has championed a program he calls “health hop,” in which he has used rap to reach various audiences with medical care messages. In 2009, he won a flu prevention video contest sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services for an “H1N1 rap.”
Train commuters may also recognize him from his work for the Long Island Railroad, for which he created a “gap rap.” The public service announcement was designed to protect children from falling into or tripping over the gap between the train and the platform.
Dr. Clarke has produced music for numerous genres, including for a children’s album and a Christian album.
As for life outside BNL, Dr. Clarke is married to Elizabeth Clarke, who is a nurse practitioner and is in the doctorate of nursing practice and clinical leadership program at Duke University.
When he’s not spending time with his wife or their children, he enjoys home projects like flooring and tiling.
Dr. Clarke is pleased to be working at the national Department of Energy lab.“BNL is a great place, because the science and the work they do has an impact,” he said.
This week’s shelter pet is Gina, a brown tabby cat who arrived at the Smithtown Animal Shelter in late August after being abandoned outside a local grocery store.
Gina was a little shell shocked initially, but as she learns to trust, she is becoming a sweet little lady. She is approximately two years old and has no medical issues. She would do best in a quiet home.
If you would like to meet Gina, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with her in a domestic setting.
The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.
DISCOVERING THE HARBOR
The Setauket Task Force hosts its annual Setauket Harbor Day on Oct. 1. File photo by Maria Hoffman
Ongoing
Stone Bridge Nighthawk Watch
Every evening through Oct. 6, from 5:30 p.m. until dusk, the Four Harbors Audubon Society will be tallying migrating Common Nighthawks to better understand nighthawk population trends. Join them at the stone bridge at Frank Melville Memorial Park, One Old Field Road, Setauket to witness nighthawks as they pass over during their migratory journey to their wintering grounds in Brazil and Argentina. Visit www.4has.org for further details.
Thursday Sept. 29
Morgan James in concert
Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes Morgan James in concert in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. With a meticulously trained, versatile voice of unbridled soul, Morgan James has dominated Broadway and Blues Halls alike. Her transfixing stage presence coupled with the unparalleled instrument that is her voice moved the Wall Street Journal to hail James as “the most promising young vocalist to come along so far this century.” Once you witness James live, in-concert, you’ll realize they’re not exaggerating. Tickets range from $$ to $48. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.
FALL INTO FUN Heritage Park in Mount Sinai hosts its annual Fall into Fun Carnvial from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2. File photo by Giselle Barkley/TBR News Media
Friday Sept. 30
Stony Brook Village Walking Tour
Just added! Join the Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) in a new walking tour experience, Unwind & Uncork History: The Story of Wine & the Stony Brook Grist Mill at 11 a.m. (3 p.m.session is sold out)Tour-goers will “uncork” the stories of the Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751), the sight of Long Island’s very first vineyard. This will include a tour of the Stony Brook Grist Mill, the scandalous story of Edward Kane, his Lakeside Wine Company, and a brief lesson on wine. Fee for the touris $25 per person and includes a bottle of authentic Catawba wine from Lake Side Emotions Wine Boutique. All participants must be 21 or older. Advance registration is required by calling 751-2244.
Fall into Fun Carnival
Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mt. Sinai celebrates the season with a Fall into Fun Carnival! Enjoy three days of carnival rides, games, food vendors, and fun for the whole family today from 6 to 10:30 p.m., Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Oct. 2 from 11 a.m to 6 p.m. Free admission and parking. Pay per ride or purchase a bracelet. Call 403-4846 for more information.
Sugar Skull workshop
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park will host a Sugar Skull workshop from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in honor of Hispanic History month. Inspiration will be drawn from artist Frida Kahlo who would paint colorful sugar skulls — reflections between life and death— in much of her work. Adults only. $4 per person. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure.
Friday Night Face-Off
Friday Night Face Off, Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door – cash only. Call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com for more information.
Saturday Oct. 1
Fall into Fun Carnival
See Sept. 30 listing.
Paint Port Pink
Through the month of October, attend events throughout Port Jefferson and Port Jefferson Station hosted by John T. Mather Memorial Hospital and its community partners as part of a month-long outreach program by the Fortunato Breast Health Center with the mission of raising awareness about breast cancer, sharing information and education and fostering solidarity in the community. Call 476-2723 or visit www.matherhospital.org/pink. See more in next week’s paper.
Craft Fair & Basket Raffle
Parents of Troop 362 will hold an outdoor Craft Fair and indoor Basket Raffle fundraiser event at Hope Lutheran Church, 46 Dare Road, Selden from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rain date is Oct. 2. Call 732-2511.
Pumpkinfest – This event has been canceled due to the weather.
Join the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank for its 35th annual Pumpkinfest fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $20 per person ages 3 and up in advance, $25 at the gate includes pumpkin picking, unlimited wagon rides, pumpkin decorating, family games andactivities, children’s entertainment, farm animal encounters, live music and a visit to the corn maze. Call 852-4600 or visit www.ccesuffolk.org
Oktoberfest and Vendor Fair
St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church, 4 Woodville Road, Shoreham will hold an Oktoberfest and Vendor Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Do some shopping and then enjoy traditional German food (sauerbraten dinner, bratwurst) plus pretzels and beer! Dine in or take out. Admission is free. Call 744-7730.
Fall Festival at Sachem Library
Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook will host its annual Fall Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy handmade craft vendors, a petting zoo, live music, and more. Free fun for all ages. Call 588-5024.
Setauket Harbor Day – Please note this event has been canceled due to the weather.
Come celebrate the history of beautiful Setauket Harbor at the Brookhaven Town Dock and Beach on Shore Road from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy free kayak lessons and boat rides, live music, food, learn about Setauket’s shipbuilding past and view displays of the marine environment of a thriving harbor. Sponsored by the Setauket Harbor Task Force. Free. Call 786-6699.
Stony Brook Apple Festival – Please note this event has been canceled due to the weather.
It’s time to celebrate the apple! Join the members of the Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brookfor their annual Apple Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free event will include live entertainment, children’s games and activities, craft vendors, tag sales and more. Come see a demonstration of an old- fashioned apple press where cider was once made. Homemade apple pies, baked goods, and barbeque lunch will be sold. Call 751-0574.
Sea Shanty & Maritime Festival
The 2nd annual Port Jefferson Sea Shanty & Maritime Festival returns to Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway Port Jefferson from noon to 7 p.m. Come for an afternoon of authentic Sea Shanties and dockside work songs, explore the history and techniques of wooden boat building, bring out your inner scalawag at the Pirate Camp, thrill to street singers on the sidewalks of the Village and discover the Schooner Ginny Marie, docked within singing distance of the stage. Fun for all ages. Free. Festival will be moved to the Port Jefferson Village Center (same address) if it rains. Visit www.gpjac.org.
Fall Harvest Festival – This event has been postponed due to the weather. A new date is being scheduled.
Join the Church on the Sound, 335 Oxhead Road, Stony Brook for its annual Fall Harvest Festival from noon to 7 p.m. Enjoy a pumpkin patch, pony rides, petting zoo, food trucks, games, raffles, face painting, kids activities, giant slide, pumpkin painting, photo booth, live bands and much more. Free. Call 941-4100.
Sunday Oct. 2
Fall into Fun Carnival
See Sept. 30 listing.
Soles for All Souls Race
Ready, get set, go! All Souls Church, 61 Main St., Stony Brook hosts its 14th annual Soles for All Souls 5K Run/2K Walk starting at 9 a.m. Come race or walk through the beautiful tree lined streets of Stony Brook Village. All proceeds from the race will be dedicated to making the church handicapped accessible. Award ceremony with medal presentations and prizes immediately following race. To register, visit active.com or register on the day of the race at the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook at 7:30 a.m. This event will be held rain or shine. Call 655-7798.
Huntington Village Art Walk
The Huntington Village Art Walk, a self-guided tour of the new exhibits at the museums and galleries, in the Village of Huntington, will be held from noon to 5 p.m. This year’s Art Walk will feature Huntington Art Center, Huntington Arts Council, Heckscher Museum of Art, Spotlight, Digho Arts, fotofoto gallery, bj spoke gallery, Huntington Public Library, Huntington Historical Society, and more. At the Heckscher, meet the artists behind the artwork in the Long Island Biennial 2022 exhibition! Exhibiting artists Beth Atkinson, Darlene Blaurock, Peter Galasso, and Shawn McAvoy will be in the galleries to provide insight into their work that only they can give, and answer visitor questions. Free admission. No registration required. Call 380-3230 or visit www.heckscher.org.
St. James Day
It’s back! The St. James Chamber of Commerce presents St. James Day along Lake Avenue in St. James (between Woodlawn and Railroad Avenues) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy festival food, music, vendors and much more. Call 584-8510.
Rock N’ Raptors fundraiser – This event has been postponed. More info to follow.
Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for a Rock N’ Raptors fundraiser from 2 to 6 p.m. Enjoy live music by the 70s Rock Parade, Streetfighter and Rock ‘N’ Roll U, raptor presentations, raffles, games, food, and more. Bring your whole family or rock out with your friends. Proceeds will benefit the Center’s injured wildlife. Bring seating. Held rain or shine. $25 per adult, chilre ages 11 and under free. Visit www.sweetbriarnc.org to register. Call 979-6344 for more information.
William Sidney Mount lecture at the LIM – just added!
The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A; Stony Brook, will host an Author’s Talk in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 2 p.m. Authors Katherine Kirkpatrick and Nicholson-Mueller will discuss their new book, The Art of William Sidney Mount: Long Island People of Color on Canvas, with a book signing, banjo and fiddle music, refreshments and a gallery tour, where The Banjo Player and Right and Left will be on display. Free with price of admission. Visit wwwl.longislandmuseum.org.
Ridotto Concert
Ridotto celebrates its 31st season with a concert titled Ridotto Concert: Remembering, music grounded in memory, recalling happy times, at the Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington at 4 p.m. Program will include Five Folk Songs by Florence Price, Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet, and Duos by Bartok and his student Erszebet Szony. Performers are Mingzhe Wang, clarinet and the Price String Quartet. Tickets are $35, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. For reservations, call 385-0373, or email [email protected].
Monday Oct. 3
Sky Room Talk at the CAC
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a Sky Room Talk titled Humphrey Bogart: The Real King of Cool at 7:30 p.m. Join returning film historian and filmmaker Glenn Andreiev for an informative and entertaining look at the career of a screen legend. Tickets are $17, $12 members. Call 423-7610
Tuesday Oct. 4
No events listed for this day.
Wednesday Oct. 5
No events listed for this day.
Thursday Oct. 6
Women’s EXPO
Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach presents its 22nd annual Women’s EXPO from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. A showcase and a marketplace for Long Island women entrepreneurs, the indoor event will feature over 80 exhibitors who create or distribute a variety of products, including jewelry, pottery, soaps, food and more. The indoor event is a great opportunity to support local women entrepreneurs while shopping for holiday gift giving. Free admission. Call 585-9393, ext. 296 or visit www.womensexpoli.org.
Fall Art Crawl
Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host a guided exhibition tour of campus galleries from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tour the Charles B. Wang Center, the Zuccaire Gallery, the Alloway Gallery, the Central Reading Room, and the Simons Center Gallery, visiting each for about 30 minutes. Call 632-7240 for more information/
Film
‘An Act of Worship’
The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues with a screening of An Act of Worship at Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson on Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. The film weaves a glorious tapestry of personal stories, verité, archival footage, and home movies together, to open a window into the world of Muslim Americans. The film follows three women activists who have come of age since 9/11 and who are part of a new generation of Muslims in America. Guest speakers will be director Nausheen Dadabhoy and producer Sofian Khan. Tickets are $10 at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com or at the door.
‘Billy Joel: Live at Yankee Stadium’
In celebration of 50 years of Billy Joel, “Live At Yankee Stadium” heads to the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a special two-night screening on Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. Billy Joel’s legendary 1990 concert at Yankee Stadium stands as one of the greatest concert films of all time. Shot in 16mm color film, the original concert has now been meticulously re-mixed and re-edited in stunning 4K with Dolby ATMOS audio. The newly edited version includes a never-before-released performance of “Uptown Girl” along with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage from the event’s production. Tickets are $20, $15 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Theater
‘Guys and Dolls’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off its 52nd season with Guys and Dolls from Sept. 17 to Oct. 22. Considered the perfect musical of Broadway’s Golden Age, this delightful romp gambles in luck and love from Times Square to Havana. High rollers and low characters from Damon Runyon’s mythical New York are joyously presented in Frank Loesser’s bold and brassy score, featuring “Luck Be a Lady,” “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat.” An award-winning classic for the entire family! Tickets are $35 adults, $28 senior and students, $20 children ages 5 and up. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Mystic Pizza’
Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is the new musical comedy, Mystic Pizza, from Sept. 15 to Oct. 30. Based on the classic 1988 movie starring Julia Roberts, Mystic Pizza charts the lives and loves of three unforgettable waitresses in the harbor town of Mystic, CT. Add in some of the best pop songs of the ‘80s and ‘90s such as “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” “Addicted To Love,” “Small Town,” “Hold On,” and “Take My Breath Away,” and you have all the ingredients for a romantic comedy–with the works! Tickets range from $80 to $85. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B15.
‘The Lightning Thief’
The Smithtown Performing Arts Center presents The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical from Sept. 30 to Oct. 29. As the half-blood son of a Greek god, Percy Jackson has newly-discovered powers he can’t control, a destiny he doesn’t want, and a mythology textbook’s worth of monsters on his trail. When Zeus’s master lightning bolt is stolen and Percy becomes the prime suspect, he has to find and return the bolt to prove his innocence and prevent a war between the gods. But to succeed on his quest, Percy will have to do more than catch the thief. He must travel to the Underworld and back; solve the riddle of the Oracle, which warns him of betrayal by a friend; and come to terms with the father who abandoned him. Adapted from the best-selling book by Rick Riordan and featuring a thrilling original rock score, The Lightning Thief is an action-packed mythical adventure “worthy of the gods” Tickets are $40, $35 seniors, $25 students. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.
Vendors Wanted
◆ St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown seeks craft or new merchandise vendors for its Craft Fair and Car Show on Oct. 8 (rain date is Oct. 15 for craft fair only) $50/space. Visit www.stthomasofcanterbury.net or call 631-265-4520 to obtain an application.
◆ Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 716 Route 25A, Rocky Point seeks vendors to be a part of their annual October Festival on Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The fee for vendor participation of new items, no raffles is $35 per10’ x 10’ space. Must supply own table and chairs. Visit www.thefishchurch.com Festivals and Events page.
Once upon a time, many years ago, the East End of Long Island was densely populated with farms that grew potatoes and cabbages and cauliflower. Even though most of them have become vineyards, there are still a few that continue to produce the original crops, and Long Island cauliflower, whether the familiar white common variety or the purple, green or orange ones that are the harbingers of autumn, tastes virtually the same, although some people say the purple has a slightly nuttier taste. All are members of the cruciferous family which makes them great sources of vitamin C, and purple cauliflower is especially good for the anti-oxidants it contains. Whatever color you choose, you’re in for a veggie treat and a good dose of healthy nutrients.
Roasted Purple Cauliflower
YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 servings
INGREDIENTS:
1 large head purple cauliflower
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2/3 cup grated Parmigiano cheese
1/3 cup toasted pignoli nuts
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment. Slice cauliflower lengthwise through the core into 4 to 6 one-inch steaks. Brush both sides with olive oil, sprinkle with half the salt and pepper, then half the cheese. Bake about 15 minutes, until top is golden, then flip, sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper and cheese and bake another 15 minutes or so until that surface is golden and bubbly. Remove from oven, transfer to serving dish and sprinkle with toasted pignoli nuts. Serve with any meat, fish, poultry or vegetable protein.
Giardiniera
YIELD: Makes 6 to 8 cups
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 head cauliflower cut into small florets
2 carrots, peeled and cut diagonally into 1/4” slices
2 celery ribs, trimmed and cut into 1/4” slices
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
2 garlic cloves, sliced thin
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
2 cups white vinegar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
Kosher salt to taste
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons celery seeds
2 teaspoons fennel seeds
1 tablespoon dried marjoram
DIRECTIONS:
In a large bowl, toss together cauliflower, carrots, celery, bell pepper, garlic, and jalapeño pepper; pack into glass jars. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, bay leaves, celery seeds, fennel seeds and marjoram; stir well and bring to a boil. Once it boils, remove from heat, remove bay leaves and pour liquid over vegetables in jars. Let cool completely, place lids on jars, and refrigerate for up to one week. Serve with assorted salamis, prosciutto, and hard cheeses.
Cream of Cauliflower Soup
YIELD: Makes 4 to 6 servings
INGREDIENTS:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
White part only of one leek, rinsed and sliced
1/4 cup flour
1 quart chicken broth
1 head cauliflower broken into bite-size florets
1 potato, peeled and diced
Freshly ground white pepper
2 cups cream
1 tablespoon minced fresh sage leaves
1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives
DIRECTIONS:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add leeks and saute until tender, about 6 minutes. Stirring constantly, add flour until mixture forms a paste, then, still stirring constantly, gradually add chicken broth, cauliflower, potato andground pepper. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer about 15-20 minutes, until cauliflower and potato are very tender. Remove from heat and let sit to cool slightly. In small batches ladle into bowl of food processor and puree; return pureed mixture to saucepan. Stirring constantly, add cream and bring just to a simmer; reduce heat to low and simmer about 15 minutes, until it starts to thicken. Stir in herbs and serve hot, cold or at room temperature with focaccia.
A product from Sweet Woodland Farm. Photo courtesy of Rachel Stephens
The leaves are changing and there is a nip in the air, which means it is time for one of the community’s favorite fall events! After two years virtual and outdoors, the 22nd annual Women’s EXPO returns in-person at the newly renovated Middle Country Public Library, in Centereach on Thursday, Oct.6 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with more than 70 exhibitors.
An initiative of the Middle Country Library Foundation, this annual event celebrates women entrepreneurs by connecting them with their peers, local business women and most importantly, potential customers.
It’s been a tough couple of years for everyone and entrepreneurs have really taken a hit. “While the library’s Miller Business Center never stopped working with these and other entrepreneurs the entire time, we know that the camaraderie and energy of the EXPO is invaluable. We are happy to welcome these local entrepreneurs into our new space,” says library director, Sophia Serlis-McPhillips.
“Our favorites along with a great selection of new women entrepreneurs will be at this year’s EXPO and we can’t wait,” said Elizabeth Malafi, coordinator of the library’s Miller Business Center. As it has in previous years, EXPO welcomes a diverse group of entrepreneurs with something for everyone including soaps, food, clothing and more. Like all entrepreneurs, they have worked hard to survive uncertain times.
Shahnilla Jamal, chair of the EXPO’s planning committee and an SVP and Relationship Manager at HSBC Bank is excited to appreciate and celebrate these entrepreneurs. “Resilience is what I see in the women of Long Island, especially the EXPO entrepreneurs,” she said. “They have endured many trials and tribulations over the past couple of years, yet these amazing women have emerged stronger and more determined than ever before.”
Long Island has always supported small businesses and the entrepreneurial spirit. The support comes from shoppers and other Long Island businesses, including People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union (PAFCU), who has supported the EXPO for many years. Lisa Mitnick, Senior Manager of Business development for PAFCU knows how important it is. “Driving initiatives that advance women in their careers is not just critical to our business success, but is extremely important. The EXPO promotes the career advancement and success of women throughout Long Island,” she said.
Let’s learn more about some of the women you’ll meet at the EXPO.
Loretta OberheimArtwork by Loretta Oberheim
Loretta Oberheim
Loretta Oberheim Art
@lorettaoberheimart
After hearing great things about the EXPO from her dear friend and photographer, Holly Hunt, Loretta Oberheim, decided to apply to participate. “The support she had received from the wide range of female entrepreneurs, as well as Middle Country Library, was something I found to be extraordinary…To see an entire event celebrating female entrepreneurs is phenomenal, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Loretta is an award-winning sculptor and abstract artist. After graduating with a B.F.A. in Textile/Surface design from the Fashion Institute of Technology, she began working in the interior design industry with her designs gracing the pages of Vogue, Architectural Digest and more. A traumatic brain injury made creating impossible for a while, but after a time, Loretta was able to create again in a new form – contemporary abstract impressionism.
As an entrepreneur, sales are important of course, but for Loretta, one of her greatest business and creative successes happened when she gave a piece of her artwork away.“A young woman came by my booth with her parents and commented on my cool cane. After looking at my work, she commented to her mom that she needed to start painting again.” This comment touched Loretta. She gave one of her paintings to the young woman telling her to “go home and just start trying.” For Loretta, nothing compared to the moment. She knew that the young woman would forever look at that painting and see that a complete stranger had faith in her.
Rachel Stephens
Rachel Stephens
Sweet Woodland Farm
@sweetwoodlandfarm
Born and raised on Long Island, Rachel Stephens owns and runs Sweet Woodland Farm on the North Fork, growing elderberry, herbs, roots and more. The crops are hand-harvested, barn-dried and used in all the wellness products Rachel makes and sells through farmer’s markets, local shops and the EXPO. Using the herbs she grows to help people is an incredible feeling for her. Some moments, when Rachel is alone on the farm, looking around, she is reminded that success doesn’t need to be proven financially, but success can mean that you are doing what you love to do.
“Besides these cherished moments, I celebrate quietly to myself every time a customer tells me how well my products have helped them. It feels incredible to know that I can help people using herbs I’ve grown myself and processed by hand into a product that people will enjoy and benefit from. It’s these moments when I can appreciate the work that I’ve chosen rather than feel the rush and burdens of running a business.”
Rachel is thrilled to be at EXPO again this year. What she remembers most about last year’s event is the camaraderie and support among the women who participate. “I appreciate that there is an event recognizing and celebrating woman owned businesses. As women gain momentum in every field I’m happy to represent women in farming at the EXPO.”
Tina Dos Reis
Tina Dos Reis
All Out Anime!
@alloutanime
After too many years in retail management, in 2014 Tina Dos Reis decided to be her own boss, starting a small business that suffered too many losses during Covid and closed. Having plenty of time on her hands, she started watching Japanese anime. Tina quickly became hooked on the action-packed scenes full of heroes with powers and quirks and started collecting keychains, figures and her current obsession, nendoroids.
That’s when it clicked, her next entrepreneurial outing — “selling anime figures!” Choosing a business name wasn’t difficult.“The phrase ‘go all out,’ is used quite often in anime. Characters will say it when they are determined to act on or do something important. Going all out was exactly what I wanted to do with this new venture.” And so, All Out Anime!: Your Place to Go All Out! was born. It is a business built on trust. With much of the product imported, there are many fakes out there. This can be a big challenge and is the reason customers may turn to well-known, larger shops first. But Tina is trying to change that in her corner of the anime world — she guarantees that her merchandise is 100% fully-licensed.
As an online business, one of Tina’s proudest moments has been creating her first website. “When you see your vision come to life, it’s truly exhilarating!” She is excited to be a part of this year’s EXPO. “This event is such a great opportunity not just for myself, but for all women entrepreneurs.The local community will have the chance to see firsthand the price we women put into our small businesses, as well as the friendly service we provide in order to make each customer experience a happy one.”
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The 22nd annual Women’s EXPO will take place on Thursday, Oct. 6 at the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd, Centereach from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Snacks and lunch will be available for purchase in the EXPO Café. Admission is free and there is ample parking. For further information, call the library at 631-585-9393 x296 or visit www.womensEXPOli.org.
Rachel Stephens
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