Yearly Archives: 2024

Seared Salmon with Apple Slaw

By Heidi Sutton

This week let’s dive into the world of tender, flavorful salmon. Healthy and a great source of protein, salmon is considered the best fish in the sea and is the star of the following recipes.

If you like honey mustard, then you will love Honey Mustard Crunch Salmon. Combine 6 simple ingredients to make your epic glaze to coat the salmon, and press down your panko mixture for a delicious crunch. Seared Salmon with Apple Slaw is a flaky baked fish that is complemented perfectly by Asian-style barbecue sauce and fresh herbs then paired with a sweet homemade apple slaw for a classic dish with a tangy twist.

Honey Mustard Crunch Salmon

Honey Mustard Crunch Salmon

YIELD: Makes 3 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Three 6-ounce salmon fillets

salt and pepper, to taste

Honey Mustard Glaze:

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup whole-grain mustard

2 tablespoons smooth Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

2 teaspoons horseradish

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Crunch:

3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons dried parsley

2 tablespoons olive oil

DIRECTIONS: 

Thaw salmon and pat dry. Arrange on oiled baking tray. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

To make glaze: In small bowl, combine honey, mustard, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, horseradish and paprika; mix until well combined. Chill glaze until ready to use.

To make crunch: In bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parsley and oil; mix well. Reserve. Preheat oven to 400 F. Top each salmon portion with 1 tablespoon glaze and spread evenly over fish. Press crunch evenly onto glaze. 

Bake 15-17 minutes until fish is cooked through. Serve with drizzle of remaining glaze.

Seared Salmon with Apple Slaw

Seared Salmon with Apple Slaw

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

4 portions boneless salmon

4 tablespoons Asian-style barbecue sauce

2 apples, cored and sliced into matchsticks or julienned

1 cup sliced or shredded red cabbage 

1 cup sliced or shredded white cabbage

1 celery stick, finely sliced

1/2 red onion, finely sliced

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs such as dill, parsley or cilantro

1 lime, juice and zest only 

1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds, plus additional for garnish

1 teaspoon black sesame seeds, plus additional for garnish

DIRECTIONS: 

Preheat oven to 375 F using grill or broil setting and line baking tray with cooking paper. Arrange salmon portions on paper and spread barbecue sauce over each portion. Bake 5-8 minutes, depending on thickness and size, or until just cooked in center and caramelized on top. 

In bowl, combine sliced apple sticks, cabbage, celery and red onion slices; toss lightly. In separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, herbs, lime juice and lime zest. Fold dressing and sesame seeds into slaw and toss together. Divide apple slaw between serving plates and top with glazed salmon. Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds.

Photo from Stony Brook Athletics

The Stony Brook University men’s basketball team defeated William & Mary, 75-62, on Feb. 24 at Island Federal Arena. Four Seawolves posted double-digit points in the win, with Aaron Clarke and Tyler Stephenson-Moore leading the way with 18 points apiece.

Stony Brook started hot early, opening the game on an 11-2 run. The Tribe responded with several jumpers from Trey Moss to cut the deficit to six. The Seawolves immediately answered back with buckets from Keenan Fitzmorris and Clarke to regain momentum.

A pair of free throws from Clarke with four seconds left gave Stony Brook a 12-point advantage heading into the half. Stony Brook closed the half on a 15-9 run, highlighted by several big plays by Clarke and Fitzmorris.

Both teams traded buckets back and forth early in the second half as William & Mary cut its deficit to nine. The Seawolves responded quickly with tough shots from Jared Frey and Stephenson-Moore. Stony Brook pushed its advantage to 16 points, its largest of the afternoon, following a three from Stephenson-Moore.

After the Tribe again narrowed the deficit to eight points, the Seawolves put the game away with eight consecutive makes from the free-throw line to close out their 12th win at Island Federal Arena, defeating William & Mary for the second time this season.

“Good win for us … Happy to win at home [with] a good crowd on a Saturday afternoon,” said head coach Geno Ford after the game. “[If] you win by double figures at home in a conference game you’re going to take that any day of the week,” he added.

The team  heads on the road to take on Drexel on Feb. 29. The Seawolves and Dragons tip off at 7 p.m. from Philadelphia, with the contest streaming on FloHoops and NBC Sports Philadelphia.

Debby Mastrodima, above, teamed up with Cornelia Bruu-Syversen to win 6-3 on Saturday. Photo from Stony Brook Athletics

Stony Brook tennis won its first match in the CAA in the 2024 spring season, taking a 6-1 victory at Monmouth to close a weekend swing in West Long Branch, New Jersey on Feb. 24.

Stony Brook improved to 2-5 overall and 1-0 in conference play, as head coach Thiago Dualiby recorded his first conference win leading the Seawolves.

The Seawolves took two of three doubles games to record the point, with freshmen Mia Palladino and Darian Perfiliev teaming up for a win, before sophomore Debby Mastrodima and freshman Cornelia Bruu-Syversen won the clinching game.

Stony Brook then took five of the six singles matches, with Palladino, freshman Elena Lobo-Corral, Perfiliev, Bruu-Syversen, and junior Sara Annamaria Medved winning their matches.

DOUBLES

Brezanin/Mills (MON) def. Boro/Lobo-Corral (SBU), 6-4; Palladino/Perfiliev (SBU) def. Girish/McKinney (MON), 6-0; Bruu-Syversen/Mastrodima (SBU) def. Jamir/Landstrom (MON), 6-3 – clinching game

SINGLES

Palladino (SBU) def. Brezanin (MON), 6-3, 6-2; Lobo-Corral (SBU) def. McKinney (MON), 6-3, 6-2; Girish (MON) def. Boro (SBU), 2-6, 6-0, WR*; Perfiliev (SBU) def. Jamir (MON), 6-3, 6-4; Bruu-Syversen (SBU) def. Landstrom (MON), 6-1, 6-4; Medved (SBU) def. Mills (MON), 6-4, 7-6

“I’m really proud of the team. We set controllable adjustments after yesterday’s play and everyone executed them really well,” said head coach Thiago Dualiby. “We were able to set the right tone from the start today and executed positive behaviors throughout the match.”

The team heads to Rhode Island for two matches next weekend, first with a matchup against Bryant on March 1. First serve between the Seawolves and Bulldogs is set for 12:45 p.m.

The boarded-up house on Sheep Pasture Road. Photo by Kyle Barr

By Samantha Rutt

In a triumph for local preservationists and historians, the William Tooker House on Sheep Pasture Road, Port Jefferson Station, has been safeguarded from neglect and demolition. The oldest known structure in the village faced threats of urban renewal before being included in Preservation Long Island’s Endangered Historic Places List in 2021.

Constructed before 1750, the William Tooker House holds immense historical significance. It was once the residence of William Tooker, a descendant of early Long Island colonists, whose family played a pivotal role in the region’s colonial history. The house itself is a testament to the area’s heritage, retaining a colonial Cape Cod-style timber frame on intact fieldstone foundations.

A significant milestone was reached on Oct. 3, 2022, when the Village of Port Jefferson agreed to purchase the property from its current owners using a grant applied for by Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) during his time in the state Assembly. Through the State and Municipal Facilities Program, the Village of Port Jefferson was granted $500,000 to be associated with purchase and restoration of the property.

Since 2022, local officials have worked to decide the future of the property, mentioning using the house as a central museum to pay tribute to the village’s history.

“The mayor seems very focused on the significance of the site, wanting to operate within the parameters of the grant,” now-county Legislator Englebright said of Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow’s plan for the property. “The grant will more or less include the acquisition cost as well as a phase one restoration.”

Englebright described a phase one restoration project as stabilizing the existing structure, returning it to as much of the original structure as possible and using whatever may be left over from the grant to refurbish the interior and possibly add or update the existing heating and cooling units.

The village has not yet finalized the acquisition but is actively in contract to do so, Englebright explained. Despite its historical importance, the William Tooker House has been endangered by neglect, demolition threats and insensitive alterations over the years. However, with the village’s eventual acquisition of the property, a new chapter in its preservation is soon to begin.

Preservation Long Island, along with local community members and organizations such as the Greater Port Jefferson Historical Society and Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce, have advocated for the preservation of this piece of Port Jefferson’s history. Their efforts have culminated in the village’s commitment to acquire and preserve the property in collaboration with community stakeholders and nonprofit stewardship partners.

To further ensure the preservation of Port Jefferson’s historic resources, including the William Tooker House, Preservation Long Island and local advocates have outlined a series of actions for village officials to undertake. These include conducting a survey to identify and designate all historic resources and districts, leveraging public funding with private donations for rehabilitation work and incorporating historic preservation into downtown revitalization plans.

In addition, the New York State Historic Preservation Office recognized the property’s importance by determining its eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. With the village assuming ownership, it can proceed with the application for this designation. If successful, the designation will not only honor the house’s historical significance but also make the village eligible for tax credits, financial incentives and technical assistance for rehabilitation work.

With the William Tooker House now under the village’s stewardship, there is renewed optimism for its preservation and future as a cherished landmark in Port Jefferson. As efforts continue to unfold, residents and historians alike look forward to seeing this iconic structure restored to its former glory.

“Restoring the property will help to develop a sense of place,” Englebright said. “Place is hard to measure but important in developing community identity and pride. The restoration will help to carry and pass on a baton of knowledge for generations to come.”

Port Jefferson Station/Terryville civic association listens to a presentation from North Wind's Jim Tsunis on Feb. 27. Photo by Samantha Rutt

By Samantha Rutt

The recent Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association meeting saw presentations from developer group North Wind, the Suffolk County Police Department COPE report and a presentation regarding substance abuse from Kym Laube, HUGS Inc. executive director.

The Feb. 27 meeting began with reports from the board regarding the upcoming board elections. Two of the current members, Charlie McAteer and Sheila Granito, will be termed-out come March. The civic is seeking reelection for all positions and has no current candidates for the recording secretary position.

Only members in good standing may cast a vote for board elections. Those who have paid dues and attended at least three meetings from March 2023 to March 2024 remain in good standing.

Some notable community figures were in attendance: Port Jefferson Deputy Mayor Rebecca Kassay and Skyler Johnson, both Assembly District 4 Democratic candidates; Council District 1 Chief Legislative Aide Amani Hosein and Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright (D-Setauket).

The meeting carried on with reports from members of the South County Police Department offering insights from the COPE report from Jan. 23 to Feb. 27. Officer John Efstathiou mentioned for the Port Jefferson Station area overdoses have decreased from this time last year from 4 to 2. Additionally, motor vehicle incidents saw an increase from 43 to 60 over the last year – for the same January to February time period. The officer also mentioned a slight increase from last year of criminal incidences, raising to 63 from last year’s 59. 

“In my opinion, and it’s just my opinion, it’s a safe area, absolutely,” Efstathiou said.

The meeting continued with a presentation from developer Jim Tsunis of North Wind — the organization responsible for the construction of developments like Port Jefferson’s Overbay and Setauket Meadows.

Tsunis showed a 10-minute video where he shared his background and connection with the Port Jefferson Station community sharing that his father was a businessman who made an impact on his PJS community. 

The video also touched on the proposed 5.6-acre Baylis Avenue development property to become Brook Meadows. The proposed development sits along Sheep Pasture Road and Baylis Avenue, and neighbors a current apartment complex and existing railroad tracks.

The presentation also included testimony from four residents about the soon-to-be Brook Meadows site in support of the development — most reasoning with the residential zoning the development would provide over the existing industrial zoning.

Following the video, Tsunis addressed the civic association and their questions. 

Many concerns were raised for the proposed density of the site at 56 units. Civic members asked Tsunis questions about the use of the property, suggesting it could be used for single-family homes instead. Fear of increased density was also raised by Englebright in his statement to Tsunis. 

Englebright shared his experience growing up and around the Island saying that he has experienced the loss of suburbia and does not want that to continue.

“We’re getting into the realm of causing me to wonder whether we’re going to lose a suburban lifestyle over time,” Englebright said. “A density that is urban is being proposed repeatedly. I just want to commend the possibility of a cumulative environmental impact statement. I think that makes a lot of sense — piecemealing what happened to Bayside — there’s nothing left of what I was familiar with when I grew up.”

Additional concerns arouse touching on added traffic from the development, with feedback from other civic attendees supporting the single-car traffic from the residential zoning over the potential industrial-zoned traffic.

Tsunis defended his group’s proposal, mentioning the increase of affordable housing units to the original plan, suggesting a monthly rental price point of around $2,100 for a two-bedroom apartment offered by Brook Meadows. Tsunis also noted an addition to the buffer from the road surrounding the development, a concern raised at previous civic gatherings.

Many civic attendees commented on the presentation and civic president Ira Costell welcomed Tsunis back to continue the conversation as both organizations seek a compromise.

Following the North Wind presentation, Laube from HUGS Inc. shared a PowerPoint presentation, addressing addiction, substance abuse and sharing several statistics relating to these issues.

Laube spoke to the increased ability to purchase substances like cannabis and alcohol as dispensaries are opening and, unlike the past, alcohol sold in various locations rather than solely at liquor stores.

The HUGS representative’s presentation included anecdotes from her lived experiences eliciting many reactions from the audience, offering moments of amusement and response to points made. Laube urged the audience to look at each situation a little differently, to seek the truth and to get involved.

The next civic meeting will take place March 26 at the Comsewogue Public Library. For more information regarding the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Civic Association visit its website at www.pjstca.org. 

By Bill Landon

Comsewogue Warriors (No. 4) hosted Bellport (No. 5) in the opening round of the Suffolk County class AA basketball title chase, with both teams deadlocked at 21-21 at the halftime break. The Warriors led by one point after three quarters of play at 33-32, but Bellport exploded in the final eight minutes of play, defeating Comsewogue 51-39.

Comsewogue senior Vienna Guzman netted 11 points as did teammate Jalynn Kirschenhueter and senior Hannah Ellis banked eight in the Feb. 23 contest.

Comsewogue concludes the 2023-24 campaign with an impressive 11-3 league record, 13-7 overall.

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Catch a screening of 'Paddington 2' at the Cinema Arts Centre on March 3.
PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Fun with Feathers on Feb. 29 and again on March 8 at 9:30 a.m. Children ages 2 to 4 years of age will learn about the wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Frog Encounter

Celebrate Leap Day, Feb. 29, at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor with a Frog Encounter program from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Come see and learn about animals that leap hop, ump and climb! Free with paid admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. No reservations required. 516-692-6768

Storytime Under Stars

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Storytime Under the Stars series on March 3 at 6 p.m. Your favorite bedtime storybooks come to life in the planetarium theater! Children ages 2 and older are invited to wear their most comfy pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed animal. Tickets are $8 for guests, $6 for members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on March 4 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008

THEATER

‘Frozen Jr.’

Frozen Jr. returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on weekends from Jan. 27 to March 3. The magical land of Arendelle comes to life onstage. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “For the First Time in Forever” and “Let It Go.” With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for an unforgettable trip down the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 21 to March 16. Enjoy a grand-new take on this classic tale featuring an original score, memorable characters, and fun for the entire family — a delightful reminder that “there’s no place like home!” All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Disney’s ‘Descendants’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Disney’s Descendants The Musical  from March 16 to 30. Imprisoned on the Isle of the Lost, the teenaged children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil have never ventured off the island… until now. When the four troublemakers are sent to attend prep school alongside the children of beloved Disney heroes, they have a difficult choice to make: should they follow in their parents’ wicked footsteps or learn to be good? Tickets are $18 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

FILM

‘Paddington 2’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Paddington 2 on March 3 at noon. Paddington, now happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens, has become a popular member of the community, spreading joy and marmalade wherever he goes. While searching for the perfect present for his beloved Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, Paddington spots a unique pop-up book in Mr. Gruber’s antique shop, and embarks on a series of odd jobs to buy it. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org

‘Hop’ Aboard the Bunny Express

Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce invites the community to a screening of Hop in the Chamber Train Car, southeast corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station on March 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. $20 per person includes movie, water, popcorn, and cookie with a visit from the Easter Bunny at the end. Great opportunity for pictures! For more information and to reserve your seat, visit www.pjstchamber.com or call 631-821-1313. 

 

Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, PJFD Chief Anthony Barton, PJFD Commissioners David Gumbus, Charles Russo, and David Oakes (on the rig). Photo courtesy Mayor Lauren Sheprow

Supervisor Dan Panico held a press conference at Brookhaven Town Hall to announce that the Town of Brookhaven will transfer two Stewart & Stevenson LMTV Highwater Rescue Vehicles to the Port Jefferson and Mastic Beach Fire Districts. Supervisor Panico’s action comes shortly after the north shore and south shore of Brookhaven Town experienced extensive flood damage from heavy rainstorms in January. Mastic Beach and the Village of Port Jefferson experienced considerable rain and flooding, which made it extremely difficult to make rescues in the affected areas. Since the responsibility of water rescues was transferred from the Town to local fire districts, the trucks were no longer needed by the Town of Brookhaven. 

The resolution was unanimously adopted at the Feb. 1 Town Board meeting. The Highwater Rescue Vehicle donated to the Port Jefferson Fire District also includes an Inmar Hull, 4.3-meter inflatable boat with trailer.

There is no fiscal impact to the Town as the vehicles will be transferred to the Fire Districts per section 72-h of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York to provide emergency water rescue and returned to the Town if not needed in the future. It was also indicated that the Port Jefferson and Mastic Beach Fire Departments agree to use the vehicles for Mutual Aid for other Fire Districts within the Town of Brookhaven for water rescues. In the event that the Mastic Beach or Port Jefferson Fire Districts, should decide to sell either of the vehicles, the Town of Brookhaven shall have the right to request the vehicles be returned to the Town.

Supervisor Panico said, “The marked increase in the frequency of these significant rain and flooding events present challenges for local fire departments. Two of our most vulnerable coastal communities are Mastic Beach and Port Jefferson, and their fire departments need the right tools to help keep residents safe. Accordingly, we are pleased to be able to help them do their job with the donation of these Highwater rescue vehicles.”

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A MUSICAL WEAVE Multi-instrumental quartet Invoke heads to St. John’s Episcopal Church in Cold Spring Harbor in concert on March 2. Photo by Nathan Russell
Thursday February 29

Hospital Job Fair

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station hosts a Stony Brook University Hospital Job Fair from noon to 4 p.m. Join hospital representatives to hear about current job opportunities that make a difference in the lives of others. Bring a copy of your resume. For more information and to register, visit www.cplib.org/SBJobFair.

Vogue in the Village Fashion Show

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and Theatre Three present the 2nd annual Vogue in the Village Fashion show at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from 7 to 9 p.m. Runway models will be showing clothing, jewelry, and so much fashion from local shops in the village. Come early at 5 p.m. to check out the Vendor Market Place before the show. Admission is $20 cash or check at the door. Questions? Call 631-473-1414.

Friday March 1

HAC Art Reception

Huntington Arts Council invites the community to an artist reception for “Face to Face” at the Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington with juror Jeremy Dennis from 5 to 8 p.m. 631-271-8423

Steve Robinson in Concert

The Village of Port Jefferson Dept. of Recreation and the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council continue their Winter Tide concert series at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson with a performance by award winning songwriter and guitarist Steve Robinson (Blues) in the Sail Loft Room (3rd floor) from 7 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door. 631-802-2160

Saturday March 2

Church Tag Sale

St. John’s Lutheran Church Ladies Aide, 1675 Coates Avenue, Holbrook, is hosting their annual indoor Tag Sale from 9 am to 3 pm. Fill a bag for $5. Something for everyone…. housewares, toys, baby items, clothing, linens, books, electronics, sports, tools, and a whole lot more! 631-512-0360.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Kings Park will celebrate its 13th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade at noon. Let by Grand Marshal Margaret Connick,  the Parade steps off at the corner of Lou Avenue and Pulaski Road, continues down Main Street, turns onto Church Street, and ends down Old Dock Road at the William T. Rogers Middle School. [email protected]

Putt and Pub Crawl

Join the Port Jefferson Rotary Club for its 7th annual Winter Golf Classic Putt and Pub Crawl from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Spend the day walking around scenic Port Jefferson, playing 9 holes of mini golf and enjoying food and beverages from local establishments plus Best Costume Contest. Individuals and foursomes welcome. Registration includes coffee and continental breakfast, 3 free drink tickets, free food at all locations, photo-op, awards ceremony, raffle, light fare, and commemorative gift. For ages 21 and older only. For further information including ticket prices, visit www.portjeffrotary.org.

Maple Sugaring Day

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket hosts a Maple Sugaring Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come on down for a self-guided tour and see how maple syrup is made. Maple products, pancakes and hot chocolate will be available for purchase. Meet with the farm animals. Admission is $12 adults, $10 children and seniors. Questions? Call 631-689-8172.

Alex Wu in Concert

North Shore Public Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham presents a piano concert titled George Gershwin: An American Original, with pianist Alex Wu at 2  p.m. Join Wu as he brings to life a unique collection of Gershwin’s earlier piano pieces to his Broadway songs and serious works that include Rhapsody in Blue, An American in Paris and a piano medley arrangement of the folk opera, Porgy & Bess. Open to all. To register, call 631-929-4488.

Saturdays at Six Concert

All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook continues its Saturdays at Six concert series with  Stony Brook University soprano Heidi Schneider singing selections from the coveted collection of “24 Italian Art Songs and Arias” at 6 p.m. The recital will also feature a new and exciting work by local composer, Kyle Krause. The new work surrounds lush poetry written about Italian opera star Adelina Patti. Free. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

St Patrick’s Day Party

Join St. Philip Neri R.C. Church, 344 Main St., Northport for a St. Patrick’s Day Party from 7 to 11 p.m. Enjoy corned beef & cabbage, Guinness, beer and wine, raffles, 50/50 and entertainment. Tickets are $65 per person at spnpt.org or call 631-261-2485.

Broadway Sings Fundraiser

The Community Playhouse of Northport is invites the community to come celebrate their second anniversary at a Broadway Sing A Long at Napper Tandy’s, 299 Laurel Ave., Northport from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Have fun while supporting Northport’s local affordable, inclusive theater. $75 gets you an open bar and buffet dinner along with an evening of a professional DJ playing show tunes. Dance and sing the night away to Hamilton, Rent, Grease, & Juliet, Dear Evan Hansen and so many more! Must be 21 and over to attend. For tickets, visit communityplayhousenorthport.org.

Invoke in Concert

Austin-based, multi-instrumental quartet Invoke – whose music weaves together threads of classical technique, folk improvisation, and musical camaraderie will perform in concert at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1670 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor at 8 p.m. Program will include original works – including selections from their Sono Luminus debut album Evolve & Travel — and Enigma for the Night by Jocelyn C. Chambers and Tenebrae by Osvaldo Golijov. Tickets are $30, $15 students at www.stjcsh.org/invoke.

Veronica Swift in Concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes Veronica Swift in concert in the Recital Hall at 8 p.m. Named JazzTimes’ 2019 Best New Artist, Veronica Swift has toured as a featured vocalist with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Chris Botti, Michael Feinstein and Benny Green. One of the most dazzling and versatile singers of her generation, Swift will entertain you with a mix of jazz, rock and soul, with a voice that will move you. Tickets range from $46 to $57. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Rhonda Kay in Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington in partnership with Temple Beth El of Huntington hosts a concert by Rhonda Kay and the Backstage Trio at 8:45 p.m. with wine and dessert at 8 p.m. Program will feature a wonderful musical blending of the best of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, well-known Jazz standards and a few surprises! Kay will be joined by Rob Fishman on piano, Brad Sporkin on drums and Edgar Mills on Bass. $36 per person, includes concert, 2 glasses of wine and dessert. Preregistration is required by visiting https://hjc.shulcloud.com/event/benefit-concert-.htm. Questions? Call 427-1089, Ext. 10.

Sunday March 3

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a hike through the center section of the park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This 5 mile, moderately paced walk affords walkers the opportunity to relax and socialize. Adults only. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 631-423-1770.

Meghan VK in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Meghan VK from 3 to 4 p.m. With a sound that’s both familiar and fresh, offering soul woven with nostalgic callbacks to Reba and Dolly, Long Islander Meghan VK brings a powerful and natural vibrato to each and every song, mixing her country voice with her New York indie rock roots. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. For more information, call 631-689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org. 

Monday March 4

SHS Spring Lecture

Smithtown Historical Society kicks off their Spring Lecture Series in the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown with WWII Movies & Movie Stars at 7 p.m. Join historian Keith Matturro as he discusses wartime and  post-war films, propaganda, stereotypes and actors, as well as celebrities who served in uniform.  All lectures are free and open to the public. Donations suggested. Light refreshments will be served. 631-265-6768

Irish Pirates 

The Whaling Museum of Cold Spring Harbor presents an online lecture, Irish Pirates, at 7 p.m. Explore the long and legendary history of piracy on the Emerald Isle. Discover incredible true tales of marauders, like the pirates who captured St. Patrick and first brought him to Ireland! Meet revolutionary female pirates like Grace O’Malley and Anne Bonny and uncover the origins of many persistent pirate myths. ​​Free (Suggested donation of $10 appreciated). To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Tuesday March 5

No events listed for this day.

Wednesday March 6

No events listed for this day.

Thursday March 7

Crafts & Cocktails

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor continues their Crafts & Cocktails series tonight from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Both sailors out at sea and succulents conserve every drop of fresh water. Learn about the health benefits and care for these houseplants and decorate a terracotta pot with seashells to plant your very own sea creature succulent cutting. We won’t leave you high and dry — sip a rum cocktail while you work in homage to the grog sailors used to drink. (For Adults 21+), $30 per person, $20 members. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

From Carson to Colbert

Temple Beth El, 660 Park Ave., Huntington presents a lecture titled From Carson to Colbert: A History of the TV Talk Show with Brian Rose at 7 p.m. Join them in person in the Great Room to nosh, mingle and watch or from home on Zoom! Brian Rose will be joining us virtually for the program. Email Ellen Gray at [email protected]  for more information and to get the Zoom link. 631-421-5835 x 200

Film

‘In The Whale’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen In the Whale: The Greatest Fish Story Ever Told on March 1 at 7 p.m. From award-winning filmmaker David Abel, an amazing documentary chronicling the journey of Michael Packard, a Cape Cod lobster diver who survived to tell the tale of being swallowed by a humpback whale, and the events that followed when the reclusive fisherman was thrust into the international limelight. With director David Abel in person. Tickets are $18, $12 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Ukraine, The Other Frontline’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series kicks off its Spring season with a screening of Ukraine, The Other Frontline at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson on March 4 at 7 p.m. How is wartime news produced in Ukraine? A gripping and fascinating insight into the upheavals of everyday life in television newsrooms. Guest speaker will be Sarah Baxter, Director of the Marie Colvin Center for International Reporting at SBU. Tickets are $10 at the door or by visiting www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater 

‘Tick Tick Boom!’ 

Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson presents tick, tick…Boom! from Feb. 17 to March 16. This semi-autobiographical pop/rock musical by Jonathan Larson, the Pulitzer-Prize and Tony Award winning creator of RENT, inspired Lin Manuel Miranda’s 2021 Netflix movie adaptation and explores the sacrifices one man makes and the passion it takes to pursue a dream. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘I Love You, You’re Perfect …’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, a witty musical revue that tackles modern love in all its forms: from the perils and pitfalls of the first date to marriage, children, and the twilight years of life, from Jan. 18 to March 3. Set in the modern world and told in a series of vignettes and songs, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change traces the overall arc of relationships throughout the course of a life. To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Festival of One-Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 25th annual Festival of One-Act Plays from  Feb. 24 to March 23 at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre, on the Second Stage. Selected from over 2,000 submissions world-wide, these eight cutting-edge premieres are guaranteed to entertain and engage. Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the plays will feature Sean Amato, Ginger Dalton, Jae Hughes, Brittany Lacey, Phyllis March, Andrew Markowitz, Linda May, Rob Schindlar, Evan Teich, Steven Uihlein, Julia Albino, Courtney Gilmore, Gina Lardi, and Cassidy Rose O’Brien. Please Note: Adult content and language. All seats are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Jersey Boys’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents Jersey Boys, the story of Franki Valli & The Four Seasons, from March 14 to May 12. They were just 4 guys from Jersey until they sang their very first note–a sound the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a different story–a story that has made them a sensation all over again. Winner of the 2006 Tony© Award for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys features the top ten hits “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night).” To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘The Thanksgiving Play’

The Theaters at Suffolk County Community College present The Thanksgiving Play at the Ammerman Campus, 533 College Road, Selden, Islip Arts Building, Theatre 119 from March 7 to 17. Four (very) well-intentioned theatre people walk into an elementary school. The work at hand: a Thanksgiving pageant that won’t ruffle any feathers. What could possibly go wrong? Admission is $15, veterans and students $10. For tickets, call 631-451-4163.

Vendors Wanted

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket is now accepting vendors for its popular Easter Egg Hunts on March 29, March 30 and March 31. $50 for one day, $90 two days, $125 three days for a 10’ X 10’ spot. To apply, call 631-689-8172 or email [email protected].

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead seeks vendors for its annual Fleece & Fiber Festival on May 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Rain date is May 19). $155 early bird rate for 10 X 10’ outdoor space, $175 after March 1. Artisans sharing handmade and authentic works for sale may apply at www.hallockville.org by April 1. Questions? Call 631-298-5292.

Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its annual Community Wide Yard Sale on May 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Each 10 x 10 space is up for grabs at $50, $35 members. Reserve your spot now at https://www.tvhs.org/yardsale. 631-751-3730

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor seeks vendors for its annual Sea Glass Festival on July 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Vendors and artists offering crafts and products that appeal to sea glass enthusiasts and patrons who admire handmade or one-of-a-kind items honoring historic glass are welcome to apply. Get all the details and access the vendor application at cshwhalingmuseum.org/seaglass.

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 28. 631-802-2160

Lake Grove Farmers Market

Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove hosts a Winter Farmers Market in the southwestern quadrant of the parking lot (adjacent to Bahama Breeze) on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 516-444-1280

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

 

Pixabay photo

By Daniel Dunaief

Daniel Dunaief

Even if you haven’t read the books, the way I did with my son when he was considerably younger, you probably have heard of the series “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” right?

It occurred to me to ponder the possibility of a diary of an old(er) man. To that end, here’s my first installment and, no, I’m not going to start with “Dear Diary.”

I woke up this morning and I thought, hmm, my foot doesn’t hurt. What a delightful change! And then I stepped on the floor and I was wrong. My foot, which has been bothering me for a few weeks is still painful, despite the pleasant young doctor less than half my age examining it. The friendly technicians, who sent a jargon filled assessment to my electronic account, recognized that there was swelling and suggested a couple of possible options without a definitive diagnosis or conclusion.

Then, an assistant for my doctor called to schedule a time to review my results. She suggested he’d be available some time next week. Next week??? I gasped and tried not to become irrational or overwrought.

“But my foot hurts now. Is there anyone, like, maybe a nurse, who might be able to call me and tell me what to do for the pain or who can provide a first interpretation sooner than a week?”

I used the word “like” to sound younger, even as I was playing the older-man-in-pain card. Unfortunately, it didn’t teleport me to the front of the line.

“Oh, I’ll see what I can do,” she offered, transmitting a Mona Lisa-style tone through the phone line. Is that a smirk behind your voice? Is that the equivalent of a customer disservice line that says “we’re experiencing higher than normal call volumes and we’ll get to you when we can.”

The day passed without any calls from her, from a nurse, or from a doctor. Then, I thought about the people I used to be responsible for on an ongoing basis. How were they doing? Why hadn’t they called? Oh, right, they’re living their lives which is what my wife and I always wanted for them.

I hoped no news was good news, but no news is sometimes no news, until it makes a sudden transition to something that requires support and help or that merits cheerleading.

After reading through emails, I made some work calls. When reaching out to someone I didn’t know and leaving a message, I spelled my name, using the same “N” for Nancy, “E” for Edgar and “F” for Frank that I heard my father say so many times.

How much time in my life have I spent spelling my vowel-heavy name to someone? Realistically, the chance of the letters making it onto the paper in the right order or, more likely, into an electronic message is remote. More often than not, when someone says my name back to me, I say, “yes, that’s right,” even if they “dun arf” or “do vanoff.”

After I checked a few things off the personal and professional list, I scurried over to the gym, where people much younger than I lifted the weight of small Volkswagens, while others did the kind of abdominal exercises that I’d never attempted or considered. As I watched, trying not to let my jaw drop too far, my stomach hurt, signaling to my brain that I shouldn’t even think about trying those exercises … ever!

Later that night, my wife and I took a friend to a local sporting event, where it was cool enough to require a sweatshirt.

Following behind two people using canes as they walked, our friend asked if I thought a cane might help and, if so, whether he should take one from the men in front of us. I smiled and told him that wouldn’t be necessary.

As we approached our seats, a young woman said the two words associated with the name on the front of my sweatshirt, which advertised our son’s school. Three steps past her, I registered what she said and remembered what I was wearing. I considered turning around, but the moment had passed.