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Yearly Archives: 2024

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By Bob Lipinski

Bob Lipinski

The elusive “pinnacle of perfection” in wine still exists and one can only thirst for that miracle bottle of great wine for $9.99 that is out there somewhere. But until that day comes, we can enjoy the journey and be on the lookout for wines that complement that “special dinner” or just for leisurely “quaffing” on a Saturday afternoon. To walk into a wine shop and “pluck down” $10 for a bottle of untried wine is often an effort in futility.

I’ve been busy tasting dozens of wines (and spirits for a later article) and have found 10 that are not only great values but can pair with a multitude of foods and would be a welcome ingredient in many cooking recipes. Here is my list of suggested wines for you to try.

NV Borrasca Cava “Brut” Spain. Crisp and clean aroma and flavor of green apples, pears, and citrus, with a hint of nuts and ginger.

2022 Càvit “Pinot Grigio delle Venezie,” Italy. Bouquet and flavor of green apple, stone fruit, pear, and lime. It is light-bodied with a lingering aftertaste of almonds.

2021 Lindeman’s “Chardonnay Bin 65,” Southeastern, Australia. Very easy-to-drink with notes of butter, dill, green apple, citrus, and an abundance of toasted bread.

2021 La Vieille Ferme “Rouge,” Ventoux, Rhône Valley, France. Bright ruby colored with a bouquet and taste of raspberries, spicy cherries, black tea, and herbs. Flavors of black currants, black pepper, and plums with a long aftertaste.

2021 Laria “Montepulciano d’Abruzzo,” Abruzzo, Italy. Dark almost purple color with plenty of dark fruit, blackberries, black cherries, jam, licorice, chestnuts, and a spicy warming aftertaste.

2021 Casa del Toro “Cabernet Sauvignon- Merlot,” Curicó, Chile. Dark colored with a medium-full bouquet and taste of blackberries, plums, cherries, and chocolate. Easy to drink with some tannin to lose.

2021 Trapiche “Malbec,” Mendoza, Argentina. Bouquet and taste of boysenberry, cherries, cinnamon, and plums with hints of mushrooms, herbs, and vanilla.

2019 Caliterra “Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva,” Colchagua, Chile. Cherry colored with flavors of blueberry, green pepper, coffee, pomegranate, and tart-berries. The aftertaste had hints of licorice and cinnamon.

2020 Lindeman’s “Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 45,” Southeastern, Australia. Dark colored with a bouquet and taste of coffee, black currants, tea, and mushrooms. Smooth finish with hints of mint and dark plums.

NV Rivata Dry, White Vermouth, Italy. A full perfumed bouquet of spices, almonds, mint, hints of orange peel and herbs. Dry, with a lemon fresh taste.

Bob Lipinski is the author of 10 books, including “101: Everything You Need To Know About Whiskey” and “Italian Wine & Cheese Made Simple” (available on Amazon.com). He consults and conducts training seminars on Wine, Spirits, and Food and is available for speaking engagements. He can be reached at www.boblipinski.com OR [email protected].

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A participant at last year's fashion show models an outfit from Tabu Boutique. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A model walks the runway at last year's Vogue in the Village fashion show at Theatre Three. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A model with an adoptable dog from Yorkie 911 Rescue at last year's fashion show. Photo courtesy of PJCC

By Julianne Mosher

The second annual Vogue in the Village Fashion Show is heading to Theatre Three in Port Jefferson this month so locals can strut their stuff in the latest styles from the village’s boutiques all for a good cause.

Scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 29 at 7 p.m., (on Leap Day), this year’s theme is appropriately titled “Leap Into Fashion.”

Hosted by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and Theatre Three, the event follows a successful show last year. Barbara Ransome, director of operations at the chamber, said that last year’s ticket sales went back to supporting the chamber and their events. And while this is partly true this year, Ransome added that donations from the 2024 show will also go to the Town of Brookhaven’s Dress for Success program.

According to the Town of Brookhaven website, “Dress for Success Brookhaven is part of an international nonprofit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the developmental tools to help them thrive in work and life.”

Since 1999, Dress for Success has helped over 6,000 women work towards self-sufficiency in the Town of Brookhaven.

Ransome said this a great way to get the word out about local stores like Fame & Rebel, Kate & Hale, The Smokin’ Gentleman, Ivory & Main, Sue La La Couture, Timber & Ties and Dr. G Sustainability Lifestyle. 

In addition, before the show and during intermission, a vendor’s marketplace with tables set up for different organizations, businesses and services will be held throughout the theater’s lower level. 

Douglas Quattrock, third vice president of the chamber and artistic associate and director of development at Theatre Three, said this year they have about 50 models coming out to get done up and sashay across the stage. “It has built up a lot since last year,” he said. “What I love is the community coming together.”

Along with local shops donating their services, local beauty salons like Fedora Lounge Boutique Hair Salon, The Hair Bar and Karasmatic Day Spa are planning to help out with hair and makeup before the show. 

The models are getting the full glam experience — men, women and even dogs.

Ransome noted that, like last year, dogs for adoption with Yorkie 911 Rescue will prance on stage wearing accessories from Fetch Doggy Boutique and Bakery on East Main Street. The 2023/2024 Ms. New York Senior America, Mae Caime, is also going to be a highlighted model.

“It’s one-stop-shopping the see the best of the village in one night,” Quattrock said. 

The 2nd Annual Vogue in the Village Fashion Show will be held at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson on Thursday, Feb. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The vendor marketplace opens at 5 p.m. 

The first 100 ticket holders to arrive will receive a fabulous gift: a swag bag, filled with goods from the local merchants. Tickets are $20 cash and check, $25 for credit card and online. Donations for Dress for Success will be accepted at the event or online when purchasing tickets.

For more information, call 631-473-1414 or visit portjeffchamber.com/events-calendar/vogue-in-the-village-2024/

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Catch a screening of "The LEGO Movie' at the Cinema Arts Centre on Feb. 18.
PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Fun with Feathers on Feb. 16 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.

Superheroes of the Sky

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for Superheroes of the Sky on Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to noon. Take a walking tour with Jim while he feeds the Center’s Birds of Prey and tells you about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild. You’ll be seeing and learning about a Bald Eagle, Turkey Vultures, owls, hawks and many more. $10 per adult/$5 per child. Register at www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Vanderbilt Winter Workshops

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Education Department, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents Polar Bears & Snow Globes for preschool children and their caregivers on Feb. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon and Animals in Winter & Wonderland Painting for children in grades K through 4 on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon with visits to the wildlife dioramas and creative projects. Tickets are $20, $18 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Winter Discovery Days

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown offers daily natural science programs from Feb. 19 to Feb. 23 for children ages 6 to 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Each day will be a different natural science theme chock-filled with fun hands-on activities, interaction with our residents, non-releasable wildlife, crafts, games, and much more. Parents can register their child/children for one day, two days, three days, four days, or the entire week. $95/day or $400/week. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-929-6344

Winter Break on the Farm

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket offers a Winter Break Camp from Feb. 19 to Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for ages 6 to 14. Come spend some winter days on a working farm! Perhaps you would like to know how to make Maple Syrup? Dress warm and come to the farm and find out! Campers are assured of a wonderful and entertaining winter experience. Come play, come learn! $85/day, $230 for three days. To register, visit www.bennersfarm.com or call 631-689-8172.

February Break at the Hatchery

Join Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for February Break from Feb. 19 to 23. Paint with ice,  make snow that won’t melt, make gooey slime, meet reptiles and amphibians and more. Activities are free with paid admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. No reservations required. For a full schedule and times of events, visit www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768

Space Explorers Adventure Camp

Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson offers a Space Explorers Adventure Camp for winter break from Feb. 19 to Feb. 23 from 9 a.m. to noon for grades 3 to 6. Dive into the world of robotic space exploration, tour the solar system and learn from NASA satellites. Cost is $400/week, $270 for three days (Wed to Fri). Register at www.longislandexplorium.org. 631-331-3277

World Whale Celebration

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor for a World Whale Celebration on Feb. 20 at noon and again at 2 p.m. From blue whales to belugas, you’ll have a whale of a time celebrating these awesome mammals in honor of World Whale Day! See and touch real whale bones and learn how you can help keep the oceans safe for these incredible creatures. Make an interactive ocean sensory jar featuring a clay whale of your own creation! Admission fee + $10 participant. $5 members. ​No registration needed. 631-367-3418

Crafternoon at the Library

Looking for something to do during Winter Break? Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket hosts a Crafternoon on Feb. 22. Stop by anytime between 2 and 4 p.m. to create a work of art out of upcycled materials and make your own masterpiece. The possibilities are endless…what will you make? No need to register. For ages 3 to 12 years old (supervision may be needed). Open to all. 631-941-4080

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. 

A Royal Princess Party

Sing along with a princess during winter break as the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown hosts A Royal Princess Party from Feb. 17 to 25 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Royal Historians will guide you through meeting each of the princesses, teaching the morals behind each of their stories and singing along to their favorite songs. Be sure to wear your best royal attire — this is going to be one party you don’t want to miss! Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘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 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 25 at 11 a.m  Enjoy a grand-new take on this classic tale features 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.

FILM

‘The LEGO Movie’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of The LEGO Movie on Feb. 18 at noon. The first-ever full-length theatrical LEGO movie follows Emmet an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the most extraordinary person (the MasterBuilder) and the key to saving his LEGO world. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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A NIGHT OF LAUGHS Comedian Stevie GB presents You Bet It’s Groucho at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington on Feb. 15. Photo from CAC
Thursday Feb. 15

HeARTS for ART

Fall in love with art at the HeARTS for ART Valentine’s Day event at the Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington from Feb. 15 to 18 from noon to 5 p.m. Fall in love with a work of art and place a heart in front of your favorite work of art for all to see! Then post your pick on social media with #heartsforart. All visitors February 15 through 18 will receive a heart to decorate and place in the galleries. Free with museum admission. To reserve your spot, visit www.heckscher.org. 

Felting Workshop

Huntington Historical Society hosts a Nuno Felting Eyeglass Case workshop with Oksana Danziger in the Conklin Barn, 2 High Street, Huntington from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Demonstration of technique and examples of the project will be presented at the beginning of the workshop. $50 per person, $45 members. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Emerson Legacy Concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents an Emerson Legacy Concert in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. featuring Emerson members Eugene Drucker, violin, and Lawrence Dutton, viola. Program will include works by Bartok, Dvorak, Mozart and Mendelssohn. Tickets range from $41 to $48. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

CAC Comedy Night

Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a special Stand Up/Sit Down night of comedy at 8 p.m. Titled You Bet It’s Groucho, comedian Stevie GB will present a hilarious evening as the iconic comedian Groucho Marx, with famous scenes from the movies performed live including Duck Soup, Horse Feathers and so much more. Hosted by Steven Taub, the evening will also feature special guests Joe Gelish as Chico Marx and Anita Starlite as Margaret Dumont. Tickets are $40, $30 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Friday Feb. 16

HeARTS for ARTS

See Feb 15 listing.

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Rescheduled from Feb. 9. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a Grounds and Sounds concert featuring the Claudia Jacobs Band (eclectic mix of folk, blues, pop and soul) with doors opening at 7:30 p.m.  Open mic starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and are available in advance online or at the door. www.groundsandsounds.org, 631-751-0297

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series with an interesting and informative lecture with currently exhibiting artist, Neill Slaughter from 6 to 8 p.m. Light snacks and refreshments will be served. Free. No registration necessary. 631-751-7707

Hiroya Tsukamoto 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 Hiroya Tsukamoto in the Sail Loft Room (3rd floor) from 7 to 8 p.m. Tsukamoto recently took 2nd place in the international Finger Style Guitar Championship. Tickets are $5 at the door. 631-802-2160

African-American Heritage Night

Kings Park Heritage Museum, located at the RJO Intermediate School, 101 Church St., Kings Park presents an African-American Heritage Night at 7 p.m. with the Ranny Reeve Memorial Jazz Festival featuring The Perfect Pitch Project Jazz Ensemble with performances by the Kings Park Middle/High School Jazz Bands. Free admission. 631-269-3305

Valentine’s Day  dinner dance

Time to put on your dancing shoes! East Wind Long Island, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River presents a Be My Valentine Dinner Dance and Comedy Show in the Grand Ballroom on from 7 to 11 p.m. Enjoy a 45 minute comedy show with comedians John Butera and Mike Keegan, a four hour premium open bar, live DJ music and a four course dinner including heart shaped ravioli and surf and turf. $125 per person. For reservations, visit www.eastwindlongisland.com. 631-929-6585.

Here’s to the Ladies!

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook presents “Here’s to the Ladies!” at 7 p.m. featuring The Jazz Loft All Stars, with Ray Anderson on trombone; Tom Manuel on cornet; Steve Salerno on guitar; Dean Johnson on bass; and Darrell Smith on drums. Tickets are $50 and includes a glass of champagne and chocolate. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org. 

Saturday Feb. 17

HeARTS for ARTS

See Feb 15 listing.

Giant Indoor Yard Sale

The Moose Lodge, 37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai will host a Giant Indoor Yard Sale fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Two years ago baby Amina suffered a traumatic brain injury after falling into the pool and the family now faces huge medical bills for her medical treatments, equipment and therapies not covered by insurance. All proceeds will go to her continued care!  There will be high-end goods, household items, books, puzzles, clothes and more. Amazing raffles baskets as well.  Come support this sweet girl.  631-816-5813. 

Garden Club Presentation

Wading River Congregational Church at 2057 North Country Road, Wading River hosts a meeting of the Shoreham-Wading River Garden Club at 10 a.m. Come join them for a free presentation (for those over 21) on Growing Cannabis 101 with professional cannabis grower Vince Watson. His presentation will include water & light, temperature & humidity, nutrients, pest and disease, annual plant cycle, seed vs propagation and indoor vs outdoor. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations of toiletries (small size) for Maureen’s Haven in Riverhead. 631-987-3733

Maple Sugaring at Caumsett

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road Huntington for a Maple Sugaring workshop from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This interactive program geared for adults will teach you how to make your own maple syrup at home! Not recommended for children. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 631-423-1770.

Lovers of Comedy Night

The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Lovers of Comedy Night! at 8 p.m. Enjoy a night of laughs to round out Valentine’s Day week in partnership with Governor’s Comedy Clubs. Emceed by Christina Meehan-Berg, the show will feature comedians Aaron Berg, Vinny D’Agostino and Debbie D’Amore. Tickets are $40 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Sunday Feb. 18

HeARTS for ARTS

See Feb 15 listing.

LI Songwriters Showcase

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a Long Island Songwriters Showcase from 3 to 4 p.m. An all-star lineup will be performing several of their original songs each including Karen Bella, J. Peter & Jeanette Hansen w/Charlie Cardone, Linda Sussman, Fred Raimondo & Greta Quezada, Maria Fairchild  and Bob Westcott The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. For more information, call 631-689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org. 

Monday Feb. 19

TVHS lecture

Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket with Food of Our Founding Fathers, a presentation on colonial cooking with stories, recipes, and samples by food historian Diane Schwindt, at 7 p.m. What was on the dinner menu for George Washington, Benjamin Tallmadge, and William Floyd? Come early, come hungry, and get ready to party like it’s 1799! Tickets are $20/ $15 for members. Registration in advance by visiting www.tvhs.org. 631-751-3730

Tuesday Feb. 20

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to concert by Leah Laurenti, singer and entertainer with a jazzy, soulful vocal style — a joy to hear, in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Blockbuster Broadway

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Route 25A, Northport continues its Special Event Series with Blockbuster Broadway at 8 p.m.  Come experience all the show-stopping tunes you love from Broadway’s biggest hits! Spend an evening with songs from Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, Annie, Jersey Boys, The Sound of Music, Chicago, and CATS, performed by some of New York’s top vocalists Tickets are $45. To order call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Wednesday Feb. 21

No events listed for this day.

Thursday Feb. 22

SBU Clarinet/Piano Recital

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicosls Road, Stony Brook hosts a faculty recital in the Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m. Stony Brook clarinet faculty Alan Kay, Principal Clarinetist of Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, is joined by the renowned pianist Marcantonio Barone, piano department and assistant director of the Bryn Mawr Conservatory of Music, in a dynamic program featuring music by Theresa Martin, William Alwyn, Takashi Yoshimatsu, and Johannes Brahms. Free admission. 631-632-7313

Film

‘When Harry Met Sally’ 

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen When Harry Met Sally on Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) meet when they share a car on a trip from Chicago to New York right after both graduate from college. As they build their lives and careers in Manhattan, they must decide whether to let their friendship develop into something more. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Slide’

After an 8 year hiatus from feature film making, Bill Plympton, the “King of Indie Animation,” returns to the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for the East Coast Premiere screening of his ninth and newest award-winning feature animated film, Slide, on Feb. 18 at 2:15 p.m. with a post-film reception featuring live piano and vocals by Lydia Sabosto where Bill Plympton will draw impromptu cartoons for every audience member! Event produced and curated by Jud Newborn. Tickets are $25, $20 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Bird’ 

Join the Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook for a special screening of Clint Eastwood’s film Bird of the life and career of jazz musician Charlie ‘Bird” Parker on Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. $20 suggested donation. To reserve your spot, visit www.thejazzloft.org. 631-751-1895

‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ 

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington screens Frank Capra’s comic gem Arsenic and Old Lace on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. On Halloween, drama critic Mortimer Brewster (Cary Grant) returns home to Brooklyn, where his aunts greet him with love, sweetness — and a grisly surprise: the corpses buried in their cellar. A brother who thinks he’s Teddy Roosevelt, a crazed criminal who’s a dead ringer for Boris Karloff, and a drunken plastic surgeon are among the oddballs populating this diabolical delight that only gets funnier as the body count rises. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater 

‘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. 

‘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.

‘(Mostly) True Things’

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main Street, Port Jefferson presents a production of (Mostly) True Things on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. with stories on the theme Sucker For Love about those times we go to extremes, abandon reason and take big leaps because of love. Four storytellers will compete to win the audience’s choice for the biggest “sucker for love.” Also 3 of the stories will include subtle little lies, but all the stories are otherwise true. The audience gets to question the storytellers, then vote for the person they think told it straight. Tickets are $20 online at eventbrite.com, $25 at the door (cash only).  631-928-6529

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

Vendors Wanted

— 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.

— 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].

— 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

Class Reunions

•Centereach High School Class of 1974 will hold its 50th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on April 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, email Jean Ann Renzulli at [email protected].

•Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].

 

 

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By Daniel Dunaief

Daniel Dunaief

Weddings are such wonderful, optimistic events, where people sometimes throw huge parties, while sharing the wonder of finding each other and committing to a lifetime partnership.

What if, amid all the planning for the big and small elements of a wedding — the original vows, the carefully selected flowers and walk up music, the tailor-made dresses and suits — the guests also thought about all the odd but realistic moments they will likely contribute to this wonderful celebration of the happy couple.

Let’s start with the obvious: really; it shouldn’t be called a wedding. It should be called Judgment Day. This is where guests, some of whom aren’t sure why they were invited or why they came, share their judgements about everything. People might rehearse a few lines or stare at themselves in the mirror, with skeptical faces, as they say:

“Really? The groomsmen wore black suits? Is this a wedding or a funeral?”

“What kind of food is this? I can’t tell, it’s tasteless and the portions are so small.”

“Wait, so the neighbor is performing the marital ceremony and he doesn’t know the full name of the bride? Who thought that would be a good idea?”

“Is that her extended family over there? They may be better looking than we are, but they are chewing gum. Who chews gum at a wedding?”

“Who thought it would be a good idea to have a wedding in Maine in February. Didn’t they think it would be cold? Who likes the cold?”

Okay, after the judgments, there’s the stories guests share. Older relatives, for example, might share anecdotes about the first poop they cleaned up from a bride or groom, that time they saw the bride or groom making out at a movie theater (“that Sheila sure was great. What ever happened to her? Oh, she’s sitting over there? Hi, Sheila, I always liked you.”) and that time they drove four states away to hear them play an oboe solo and weren’t they wonderful for putting out that effort.

Then, there are the comparisons to the guests’ weddings. Guests could prepare for this by looking through their own photo albums. Someone will explain how much worse they had it back then — “we didn’t have the option of Chilean sea bass: we just got tuna fish sandwiches on Wonder Bread.” — and will share details about how many guests they had, and may name-drop about the famous people the next generation doesn’t revere, but who took time out of their lives to attend their wedding.

These brushed off comparison discussions also may include references to things like “table photos” and “table cameras.” People don’t generally have table cameras anymore because almost everyone has a camera on their phone. The happy couple may ask people to share pictures from the event with them.

In addition to all the warm hugs and kisses the bride and groom receive, some relatives may continue the slightly amusing but mostly unwelcome cheek-pinching. That one probably isn’t as prevalent, but the ones who pinched cheeks back in the day must have been working out their fingers for weeks before big events, preparing to burst facial capillaries to connect/ inflict pain on the recipient.

And then some of the revelers may feel the urge to share every detail about the last day or so before this wonderful event, which could include a description of airport delays, the turbulence on the flight, the person who kept getting up from the window seat — “if they knew they needed to use the bathroom on a four hour flight every 37 minutes, why didn’t they get an aisle seat?” — and the lost luggage — “you think I wanted to wear this to your wedding?”

Finally, there are the inevitable “what’s next” questions, which often involves demanding an exact timing and head count for children, the names of future progeny (“you do plan to name at least one of your children after me, right?”), plans for future vacations when the happy couple can come and visit guests who absolutely insist they fly to their home town where they’ll “really show them a great time,” and, on a much smaller scale, what everyone is supposed to do for breakfast the next morning.

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METRO photo

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief,
Publisher

For whatever reason, we, in America, have always had an age bias. We have even been said to worship youth. We buy clothes to make us look younger. We get injections, and we even submit to surgery in order to deceive the eye of the beholder and appear more youthful. Many people have complained about ageism in hiring practices. Women have even bemoaned that they become invisible after age 50. We do crossword puzzles to retain our cognitive abilities.

Is it any wonder, then, that age has recently burst into view concerning our upcoming presidential election? The likely contenders are 77 and 81. That means in January 2029, when the next president will replace one of them, they will be 82 and 86. Until now, Ronald Reagan was the oldest president, leaving office just short of 78.

Both men are being studied for signs that they are too old. Both have had memory lapses. But is memory what determines a person’s ability to perform in a leadership role? Even more crucial, for the rest of us, is memory failure the first sign of impactful cognitive decline and even of encroaching dementia?

According to Dr. Charan Ranganath, professor of psychology and neuroscience, Director of the Dynamic Memory Lab at the University of California, Davis, “As an expert in memory, I can assure you that everyone forgets. In fact, most of the details of our lives—the people we meet, the things we do and the places we go—will inevitably be reduced to memories that capture only a small fraction of those experiences.”

The professor goes on to say, in an Opinion Guest Essay for the New York Times this past Monday, that it is normal to be forgetful as we get older, starting in our 30s. He makes an interesting distinction, however, about memory omissions: There is forgetting and there is Forgetting. To understand the difference is to relax about an occasional lack of memory.

The first (with the small f) describes struggling for that word or name on the tip of our tongue that just cannot be remembered. The professional term for that is “retrieval failure,” and while the word or name is there, we can’t summon it immediately or at all. Those of us who watch “Jeopardy!” on television see examples of that nightly as each contestant struggles to call out the answer to the question first—or as the game works, to call out the proper question to match the answer. They may have the information in their heads but just can’t grab it in time.

Forgetting (with a capital F), however, is when a memory is lost or totally gone. The example of the first, that the professor offers from the political scene, is when the names of the leaders of two countries or people are conflated, as Biden did with Mexico and Egypt and Trump with Pelosi and Haley. An instance of the second is if the President didn’t remember meeting the leader of Egypt at all.

The prefrontal cortex is the brain area that is responsible for daily memory, and it changes somewhat as we age. I prefer to think of it as the Rolodex that becomes so full with thoughts and experiences as we live our lives, that it turns increasingly slowly when called upon to produce a particular memory, like a name or date. While it does turn, it may not retrieve the information until the middle of the next night, and whom can we call with the answer then?

We all want to be “super-agers” and retain our cognitive abilities. There is, according to the professor, a huge degree of variability in cognitive aging. While aging is associated with loss of memory, that should not be equated with cognitive decline.

The professor points out that Harrison Ford, Paul McCartney and Martin Scorsese are the same age as Biden, Jane Fonda is 86, and my mentor in the aging-and-functioning department, Warren Buffett, the head of Berkshire Hathaway, is 93.

So if you can’t come up right away with that name you’re intensely seeking, you’re in good company.

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The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.

Popular Pet Showcase Features Entertainment, Education & Shopping

The Long Island Pet Expo returns to Suffolk County Community College, 1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood on March 2 and 3 with fur flying entertainment, dog sporting competitions and educational programs designed for the whole family. The event returns to the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena and features many special attractions, pet adoptions and outstanding shopping for pet lovers and their pets.

“The Long Island area is passionate about animals and pets of all kinds,” said show co-producer Karen Garetano of Family Pet Shows, which runs several similar events in the northeast.

The 100+ special exhibits always feature some of the hottest new products coming out often before they hit the retail shelves. Pets on leashes are always welcome, and several area rescue groups with adoptable pets will be on hand. Popular performers and presenters include Gail Mirabella and the Dynamo Dogs, Diana Frohman and her Beautiful Dancing Dogs, Schutzhund Demonstration by Maximum K9 Service, the Dog Lovers Days Lure Course, Rainforest Reptiles Shows, TICA Championship Cat Shows, Rabbit Hopping, the Long Island Dog Derby and more

“We always have fun at these events, but we also are strong supporters of responsible pet ownership and humane values when it comes to all issues involving animals and pets,” said Garetano. “We partner with several community organizations, shelters, veterinarians and other animal lovers educate and inform when it comes to best practices for training, feeding and all aspects of pet care.”

Community and rescue organizations will be participating in the show where attendees can learn about pet adoptions as well as responsible ownership and care.

The event is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees over the weekend. Adult admission is $15, Kids 4-11 are $6, and those three years old and under are always free. Saturday March 2nd the hours are 10 am to 7 pm, and on Sunday, March 3rd, from 10 am to 5pm. For additional information, call 631-423-0620 or visit www.familypetshows.com.

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Note: Attendees are welcome to bring their well-behaved pets to the expo. There are some regulations and restrictions-please check our website at www.familypetshows.com or contact us directly.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Matthew Dickson Allegedly Stole Money From Kids’ Soccer Club For Eight Months

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Feb.  14 that Matthew Dickson, 44, of Dix Hills, was indicted for Grand Larceny in the Second Degree for allegedly embezzling more than $70,000 from the Dix Hills Soccer Club while he held the positions of Vice President and President of the club.

“Hundreds of children and their families join the Dix Hills Soccer Club every year to be a part of the community, make friends, and learn how to play soccer,” said District Attorney Tierney. “It is a shame that anyone would want to jeopardize that rite of passage by exploiting their position of trust to steal from those same kids and their families.”

According to the investigation, between April and November 2022, Dickson was responsible for paying the bills associated with the Dix Hills Soccer Club. During that same period, Dickson held the position of Vice President, and then later, President, of the soccer club. Instead of paying the expenses, Dickson allegedly began writing checks to himself and to his corporation from the soccer club’s account without the board of directors’ permission. Further investigation revealed that the defendant allegedly collected payments from club members through his personal Venmo account for soccer-related events, which he did not then deposit into the club’s bank account. Additionally, he failed to reimburse the club for expenses that he allegedly charged on the Dix Hills Soccer Club’s credit card.

On February 14, 2024, Dickson was arraigned on the indictment before Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable John B. Collins, charging him with one count of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree, a Class C felony. Justice Collins ordered Dickson to be released on his own recognizance. Under current New York State law, the offense for which the defendant was indicted is considered non-bail eligible. Dickson is due back in court on April 12, 2024. He is represented by James Misiano, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Adriana Noyola of the Financial Crimes Bureau with investigative assistance from Detective Investigator Daniel Ayrovainen of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office’s Financial Crimes Bureau.

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Do you recognize this woman? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate the woman who allegedly stole from a Commack store last month.

A woman allegedly stole merchandise from Walmart, located at 85 Crooked Hill Road, on January 28 at approximately 1:30 p.m.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

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Do you recognize this woman? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a woman who allegedly stole from a Commack store in November.

A woman allegedly stole multiple packs of nicotine gum from Target, located at 98 Veterans Memorial Highway, at 8:54 a.m. on November 25. The woman fled in a gray Nissan Altima.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

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