Authors Posts by Heidi Sutton

Heidi Sutton

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By Heidi Sutton

It looks like some book lovers will have to wait a bit longer. In TBR News Media’s Arts & Lifestyles on March 20 it was announced that the new Barnes & Noble in  Huntington Station at 301 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station would hold a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, March 26.

Author Tessa Bailey will attend a ribbon cutting at 9 a.m.

Now the retail store has issued a statement that the grand opening has been pushed to April in a Facebook post, writing “Hello BN NY Huntington Shoppers! Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties, BN NY Huntington’s Grand Opening will be delayed until April 2nd. We thank you for your continued patience while we make this store perfect for you! We will post an update soon about opening day events, so keep an eye out!”

The retail store lost its lease in the Huntington Square shopping center in East Northport and moved to the current location last year in the space formerly occupied by Johnson Fitness & Wellness. The new store has about 14,000 square feet of space and features books, toys, games and gifts and an updated B&N Café.

“While we were saddened to leave East Northport, we could not be happier with the space we have found in Huntington,” said James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble. “Here we bring the community a completely updated Barnes & Noble and, fittingly, do so right next to the birthplace of one of the greatest American poets.”

“We are so excited to bring Barnes and Noble back to the community of Huntington and surrounding areas,” said Store Manager Kyle Goehle, Barnes & Noble Bookseller of five years. “I can’t wait for all the new memories our customers will make with our brand-new bookstore and café!”

Special guest, New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey, will attend the ribbon cutting on Wednesday, April 2 at 9 a.m. followed by a book signing. For more information, call 631-350-5503.

 

Cash

Welcome to the 39th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home

Camila

 

Meet Camila

With a name associated with grace, beauty, and strength, meet Camila, a twelve(+) year old Chihuahua mix waiting at Little Shelter in Huntington for her soulmate. As often happens, with age comes wisdom, and this clever little lady knows her best days are still ahead of her. Initially shy and demure, it doesn’t take long before she settles into your lap for a chat and perhaps a quick nap, making herself right at home. Dainty, darling, and the dearest friend you could ask for, Camila is now ready to find her forever home. Will you be the lucky one to welcome her into your family? 631-368-8770

“A Chihuahua’s loyalty is as grand as its heart … small in size, but limitless in depth.”

*Camila is not completely housebroken*

Daisy

Meet Daisy

Symbolizing cheerfulness and new beginnings, meet Daisy, a ten-year-old Mini Golden Doodle up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Fresh faced and free spirited, she radiates happiness, greeting each new acquaintance as another possible friend. Striking just the right balance between being active enough to maintain her girlish figure, while also easy going, so as not to jeopardize a good hair day, she would fit well into most family situations. You’ll want to stop by soon…a flower like Daisy is full of promise and would be the most adorable scene stealer on your holiday card! 631-368-8770

“A dog wags its tail with its heart.”

*Daisy is mostly housebroken and is good with dogs and cats.

Cash

Meet Cash

This 5 1/2-year-old brown lab mix has been at Save A Pet in Port Jefferson Station for over 1,400 days now. That is heartbreaking.

For almost four years, Cash has woken up in the same kennel, listening to the sounds of footsteps of potential adopters passing him by. He watches other dogs leave, tails wagging, excited for their new lives. But no one ever comes for him — he is officially growing old in the shelter. No dog should spend this long waiting. No dog should feel this forgotten. Cash doesn’t know what it’s like to have a home, a soft bed, or a person who loves him unconditionally. All he knows is waiting. 

He loves other dogs, women, but needs time to warm up to men. He also needs a home without small children.

Somewhere out there is his new best friend. Could that be you? 631-473-6333

Bailey

Meet Bailey

Bailey is a spirited and playful shepherd mix at the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter. At just around 2-years-old, she’s already faced more challenges than most, having been born with genetic malformations. Despite these hurdles, Bailey remains an incredibly happy and affectionate dog, blissfully unaware of her mobility issues. She will require lifelong care which include issues with her spine and dysplastic hips, as well as ongoing management for a mild heart murmur. Her future will involve regular check-ups and possibly some special accommodations, including softer food and careful handling. 631-451-6955

Tomi and Sprinkles

Meet Tomi and Sprinkles

These two lovely ladies arrived at the Smithtown Animal Shelter a month ago when their mom fell on hard times. At four years old, they have lived a life full of love and are looking for a nice, quiet home that will continue to show them that they are valued and adored. These sisters have always been together and rely on each other so it would be nice to have them adopted out together. Call 631-360-7575 to set up a meet and greet.

———————————–

‘Senior Spring Fling’

Did you know? For the entire month of April, the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, 300 Horseblock Road, Yaphank is waiving all adoption fees for all seniors pets (5 years old or older). The shelter is also offering free adoptions for ALL the pets for Easter Week — April 21 to April 25 — because everyone deserves a chance to find their forever home. Spread the word and help these sweet animals find their happily ever after! Donations of blankets are also appreciated. 631-451-6955

Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of April 17.

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

 

Sal Filosa and Jenny Bloom cut the ribbon for the new Teen Center at 205 Main Street on March 14. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

By Heidi Sutton

It’s been 10 years in the making but it was all worth it when the doors to the new Port Jefferson Free Library Teen Center swung open after a ribbon cutting event on March 14. A large crowd, including Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow, New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, and Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, attended the celebration which continued into the evening and at an Open House on March 15. 

According to a press release, the library purchased the 1812 Bayles house at 205 East Main Street 10 years ago with plans of turning the former “Scented Cottage” store into a Teen Center which had been operating out of a rental space across the street from the library.

New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich present certificates to staff of the Port Jefferson Free Library. Photo by Heidi Sutton/TBR News Media

A designated “Safe Space,” the new Teen Center features “multiple small rooms offering teens the ability to browse the library’s book, video and game collections, get homework and college application help, play board and video games, access craft supplies or participate in the busy schedule of program offerings,” according to the release. The Center, which is geared for teens in grades 6-12, also features a 3-D printer, homework stations and laptop computers. 

Working with BBS Architecture and Belfor Property Restoration, the library preserved much of the building’s charm, including 5 fireplaces, a beehive oven, the front “Dutch Door,” and the original pine floors. A covered front porch was added after Kate Von der Heyden of the Port Jefferson Historical Society shared historic photos which showed a previously existing Greek Revival-style porch. Amendments include a wheelchair lift and wider doorways.

“The reputation of this institution transcends the boundaries of the village. This is a draw for kids not just in this community but all the surrounding communities. I want to thank you for putting this together and for doing it in such a sensitive way that it maintains the streetscape and the look and feel of the village; it is such a great enhancement,” said Councilmember Kornreich.

“I am so grateful to this library board, to the leadership here and to the community for having the foresight to obtain this historic building, maintain it and renovate so that it can continue to be part of the beating heart of our library system and be a safe, wonderful and fun place for the teens,” said Assemblywoman Kassay.

“… So proud to walk through these doors for the first time and see what’s inside. I want to use it! There’s a nook and cranny for everything. I’m so glad that my nieces and my nephews and their friends will be able to use it as they come through middle school into the high school … It’s an incredible facility and what a great resource for them,” said Mayor Sheprow, who went on to thank Head of Teen Services Sal Filosa and Library Director Jenny Bloom for bringing the Teen Center to fruition.

“Growing from our one-room rental space to multiple rooms with a covered porch offers a variety of spaces for teens to relax, do homework, play games, or create art. We hope they consider the Teen Center to be their new ‘home away from home,” said Filosa.

“The restoration of the Bayles House and development of the new Teen Center has been the dream of a decade of Board Trustees, Staff, and community members, and the Library is very proud to welcome the community to the grand opening, and for teens for generations to come,” added Bloom.

The Teen Center is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 631-509-5707.

Avocado, Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad

By Heidi Sutton

It’s no secret that adding greens to your menu — morning, noon and night — can go a long way toward healthier eating habits. 

While most people think of lettuce, kale, spinach, cucumbers and Brussels sprouts, don’t forget avocados are a superfruit you can use to add good fats and great taste to recipes throughout the day. 

Avocados provide a good source of naturally unsaturated fats, and are also a good source of fiber

If you’re looking for an easy yet tasty way to add more avocados to your family’s menu, these recipes for Avocado, Brussels Sprout, Kale and Date Salad and Fresh Guacomole Salad provide a delicious introduction to the superfruit, courtesy of Family Features.

Avocado, Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad

Avocado, Brussels Sprout & Kale Salad

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

Dressing

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

4 dates pitted, softened

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1/4 cup olive oil

Salad:

2 avocados, sliced

6 cups Brussels sprouts shaved or shredded

3 cups lacinto dinosaur kale, shredded

1 cup red onion sliced

1/2 cup pistachios or pumpkin seeds, shelled

reduced-fat sharp Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated, for topping (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

To make dressing: In food processor, blend lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, pitted dates, mustard and add olive oil to combine.

To make salad: Combine avocados, shaved Brussels sprouts, kale, red onion and pistachios. Drizzle salad dressing over greens and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.

Fresh Guacamole Salad

Fresh Guacomole Salad

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

Dressing

1 cup fresh cilantro

1 garlic clove, minced

3 tablespoons lime juice

2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon avocado oil or extra virgin    olive oil

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon honey

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper, optional

Salad

2 avocados, diced

1.5 lb. kinless chicken breast, cooked, shredded

1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup red onion, sliced

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, thinly sliced

8 cups mixed baby greens

DIRECTIONS:

To make dressing: Place all dressing ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. 

To prepare salad: In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and baby greens. Top with 4 tablespoons of the dressing and toss lightly until combined.

Serve immediately with a wedge of lime.

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents a tribute to the girls of pop on Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m. If you’re a Swiftie or a Livie, this is the show for you, so come ready to sparkle, shine, and party at this family friendly experience as Julia Jewel dazzles with performances of Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo hits and learn about Julia’s music journey from American Idol Golden Ticket Winner.

As a special bonus, you’ll also get to vibe to Julia’s favs from Sabrina, Billie, Chappell and more. Live band, costume changes, shimmering lights, and great pop entertainment will get you and your friends up out of your seats dancing and singing!

Tickets are $56.50 for orchestra seating, $46.50 for the balcony.   To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Polish American Independent Ladies Auxiliary of Port Jefferson invites the community to join them for Breakfast with the Bunny at the Polish Hall, 35 Jayne Blvd.,  Port Jefferson Station on Sunday, April 13 with two seatings: 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Hop on over for a delicious pancake breakfast, festive fun, a Photo Booth, and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny! Tickets are $20 adults, $10 children ages 6 and up, $2 children ages 5 and under. For tickets go to https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/breakfast-with-the-easter-bunny or call Jennifer at 516-383-3456.

Join Dorothy and Toto for Theatre Three's 'Dorothy's Adventures in Oz' this weekend! Photo courtesy of Theatre Three Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc
PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature for children ages 2 to 4 on March 21 and 28 at 9:30 a.m. Little ones will learn about nature through hands on interaction, music, crafts, stories, play and more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

World Frog Day

Celebrate World Frog Day at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor on March 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Make a fun frog craft and enjoy frog encounters with special animal guests at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Water Rockets

Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Road, Yaphank presents a class on Water Rockets on March 26 or March 31 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Learn how rockets fly, build a rocket out of a soda bottle, then go outside and launch it from our custom-built compressed air powered launch pad. You will take your rocket home, along with instructions to build your own launch pad. For ages 6 to 10. $20 per participant. To register, go to https://www.eventcreate.com/e/rockets25. For more information, call 631-852-4600.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on March 24 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Feeding Frenzy

As part of its Pollywog Adventures series, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents Feed Frenzy on March 26 at 11 a.m. Children ages 2 to 5 will enjoy an activity, craft, story and feeding the hungry trout. $20 fee includes admission for the day for one child and one adult. Pre-registration required at www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768

THEATER

‘Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz’

Theatre Three, 423 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 19 to March 29. Join them for an unforgettable trip down the Yellow Brick Road as Dorothy Gale is whisked away by a tornado to that magical land that lies just Over the Rainbow. Follow Dorothy and her friends the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Lion ­as they encounter challenges and celebrate friendship. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical’

Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Diary of  a Wimpy Kid The Musical from March 22 to April 27. Read the books? Watched the movies? Now experience the musical! Middle school, ugh. It’s the worst. But Greg is determined not to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor, Fregley. Or maybe Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg…no way. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Peter and the Wolf’

Tickets are on sale now for Peter and the Wolf at Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook in the Recital Hall on March 30 at noon (3 p.m. performance is sold out). Gather the whole family for an immersive adventure as the Staller Center Outreach Ensemble brings Prokofiev’s beloved children’s classic to life! In this symphonic fairy tale, a lively narrator guides you through a whimsical story, while the orchestra paints vivid scenes with sound. Each instrument represents a unique character within the story, allowing listeners to discover how the orchestra weaves together different musical voices to tell a tale. Conducted by Tommy Wu  and featuring musicians from the Stony Brook Department of Music. Tickets are $31 per person. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

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A CELEBRATION OF SISTERHOOD AND THE CHANGE What better way to honor the journey of womanhood than with a night of laughter, music, and sisterhood? ‘Menopause the Musical’ continues at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center this weekend.
Thursday March 20

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

The Jazz Loft’s Swing Into Swing Festival 2025 continues today and runs through March 22 with opportunities to hear live Jazz music throughout the community at five local restaurants in the Stony Brook/East Setauket area. L  For the full festival schedule, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Lunch and Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch and Learn series at Red Restaurant, 417 New York Ave., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. as Tara Rider will present “The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick.” The most famous American witch-hunt began in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts. Yet, more than three decades before that notorious event, Long Island had its very own witchcraft trial — the trial of Goody Garlick! $55 per person, $45 members includes a gourmet two-course meal and dessert. Cash bar available. For tickets, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Spring Bingo

The Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai will hold a free bingo event sponsored by The Bristal of Mt. Sinai  from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bingo cards will be provided. Open to Town of Brookhaven residents age 60 and older. Free. To register, call 631-451-5312.

Women’s Recognition Awards

Town of Brookhaven will host the39th Annual Women’s Recognition Night at Brookhaven Town Hall, One Independence Hill, Farmingville at 6:30 p.m. The event, which is open to the public, is sponsored by the Town’s Office of Women’s Services, Department of General Services. All are welcome to attend. 631-451-6146

Friday March 21 

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 20 listing.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 604 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Frances Campani for an enriching Gallery Tour of the gallery’s current exhibit, Figure and Form. Campani will offer a unique perspective on her own works as well as the broader themes of the show. Free. No registration  required. 631-751-7707

WinterTide Concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson presents Marci Geller in concert from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series. Free will donation at the door. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and GPJAC. 631-473-5220

Hispanic Heritage Night

The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, RJO Middle School, 101 Church St., Kings Park presents Hispanic Heritage Night at 7 p.m. Enjoy an acoustic evening with Nick Sassano, a tribute to Latin divas by Linda Miller and more. Free admission. 631-269-3305

Sound Symphony Concert

Comsewogue Public High School, 565 Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station hosts a concert by the Sound Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Maestro Dorothy Savitch, the program will include works by Schumann, Tchaikovsky and more. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students at the door. Children under the age of 12 are free. www.soundsymphony.org.

Rhythm India head to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Main Stage performance by Rhythm India: Bollywood & Beyond at 8 p.m. Vibrant costumes, dynamic music, and stirring rhythms echo the heartbeats of South Asia’s royal palaces and sacred temples, desert villages and modern stages. Created by director and choreographer Joya Kazi, Rhythm India is a joyous commemoration of India’s diverse culture! Tickets range from $48 to $71. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Saturday March 22

Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival

See March 20 listing.

HealthyU Workshop

Take part in Mather Hospital’s free HealthyU Spring Semester workshop focused on your physical, emotional and financial well-being at The Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Choose from six health seminars and visit a health fair. To register and to view the complete schedule, visit www.matherhospital.org/healthyU.

Repair Café at the Library
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a Repair Café from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. where knowledgeable volunteers will help to repair your broken items and offer advice and inspiration. No registration required. Just drop in! For more information, call 631-928-1212.

Downsizing for Seniors luncheon

Howard Hanna Coach Realtors of Port Jefferson invites seniors looking to downsize to a FREE educational luncheon at the VFW Post 3054,  8 Jones Street, Setauket from noon to 2 p.m. A panel of experts will be on hand to explore the planning and process of Downsizing for Seniors with a focus on housing options for seniors, addressing the challenges of buying a selling a property, financing issues and options, repairs and maintenance, Trusts and Estates and more.  Whether you are looking to make a move this year of sometime down the road, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Lunch and prizes for all attendees as well as all your questions answered. Registration is required by calling 631-994-0082 or go to https://bit.ly/DownsizerWorkshop.

Celebrating Irish Music

Join Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook for a concert celebrating Irish music with Tom Donovan at 2 p.m. No registration required. For more information, call 631-588-5024.

Grand Opening Celebration

Join Optical Outfitters, 158 East Main Street, Suite 2, Port Jefferson for a grand re-opening celebration from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to view the new spring collection. For more information, call 631-928-6401.

Sunday March 23

Model Train Show

The St James Model Railroad Club will host an Open House at the Mills Pond House, 176 Mills Pond Road, St. James from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This 38’ X 48” Lionel train layout, the result of 42 years of continuing improvements, represents Railroading from the Age of Steam to Present Day with many freight and passenger trains running simultaneously in a scenic, imaginative setting. Children of all ages will enjoy the sights and sounds of this truly impressive event. Suggested donations are $2 for adults, 50 cents for children. 516-263-9607 or 631-543-8732.

NHS lecture

Did you know that a visit to Gardiners Island led to famed pirate Captain Kidd dying on the gallows in London? Or that the Atlantic Ocean off the South Shore became known as Rum Row during Prohibition? Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for an illuminating talk titled “Maritime Smuggling on Long Island: From Pirates to Rumrunners” with historian, author and former Newsday reporter Bill Bleyer at 1 p.m. and discover all about Long Island’s fascinating maritime past, from pirates to bootleggers. Tickets are $15, $12 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

Joe Piket in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by Joe Piket, a two-time finalist in the Long Island Music Festival and four-time winner in the Best of Long Island Entertainer of the Year poll, at 3 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce presents the 55th annual Ronkonkoma St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 2 p.m. Grand Marshal Dan Moloney will lead the parade from Amvets Post 48, 660 Hawkins Ave. at School Street, south down Hawkins Ave. ending at Thorne Street. 631-304-6303, www.ronkonkomaparade.org 

Monday March 24

Community Blood Drive

Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will host a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. If you or anyone you know would like to make an appointment, all 1-800-933-2566.

SHS Spring Lecture

Join the Smithtown Historical Society at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown for a spring lecture titled Long Island Lighthouses from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Robert G. Müller of the Long Island Chapter, of the US Lighthouse Society, will offer an in-depth look at over 20 local light stations spanning more than 200 years. Through a combination of historic and contemporary images, it explores the intricate details of lighthouse construction and the compelling stories of lightkeepers’ lives. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. No reservations required. 631-265-6768.

Tuesday March 25

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a presentation by Francine Holland on the “Pillars of Brain Health” at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

An Evening of Comedy

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a Comedy Night at 8 p.m.  Come have some laughs, enjoy some cocktails, and listen to some very funny comedians! $45 per person. For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Wednesday March 26

No events listed for this day.

Thursday March 27

Community Blood Drive

Farmingville Fire Department, 780 Horseblock Road, Farmingville will hold a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Participating donors will receive a coupon for a pint of your choice of Italian ice at the Farmingville location. All donors will also receive a hero, salad and refreshments. For questions, call 516-310-2382.

Library Blood Drive

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road Port Jefferson Station will hold a Community Blood Drive from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments are suggested but walk-ins are welcome. To determine eligibility or make an appointment please call New York Blood Center at 1-800-933-2566 or visit www.cplib.org/BloodDrive. 631-928-1212

Music Bingo Fundraiser

Smithtown Children’s Foundation will hold a Music Bingo fundraiser at the Elks Lodge, 120 Edgewood Ave., Smithtown at 6 p.m. Join them for dinner and dancing to benefit the Smithtown Central School Districts’ Business School scholarships. Tickets are $50 per person. To register, visit www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church, 61 Main St., Stony Brook presents an evening of Native American Drumming Meditations from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being.  Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Film

‘Here’

Join Comsewogue Public LIbrary, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of Here starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright on March 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. To reserve your spot, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘A Man with Sole’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 20 at 7 p.m. which chronicles the rise of renowned fashion entrepreneur, Kenneth Cole, from his scrappy start selling shoes through to his current day success. The screening will be followed by a conversation with Director Dori Berinstein. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Gattaca: and the Science of Genetics’

As part of National Science on Screen® Day, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen the 1997 sci-fi thriller Gattaca: and the Science of Genetics on March 25 at 7:30 p.m. Following the film, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Geneticist W. Richard McCombie will present a lecture and discussion on the fascinating science of genetics. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Facing the Wind’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Facing the Wind at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 27 at 7 p.m. The film examines the connection forged between two women as they care for their spouses stricken with Lewy Body dementia. Director Deirdre Fishel will join the post-film discussion in person with Cindy Morris of the Benson Agency. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 15 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Ring of Fire’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cash  comes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. The show captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

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.

 

MEET ASH AND EMBER!

This week’s featured shelter pets are Ash and Ember, a stunning brother-sister duo up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

Both estimated to be approximately seven years old. Ash (male) and Ember (female) both boast beautiful brown tabby coats with adorably unique flecks of white patching. They found their way to the shelter after years of living in a home crowded with many other cats. Nothing would make these inseparable siblings happier than to bring warmth and sparkle to one lucky family’s heart and home.

Ash and Ember’s sweet and loving nature shines through to everyone lucky enough to meet them! While they may be a little shy at first, a gentle touch and a little patience are all it takes to earn their trust—and once you do, you’ll have two lifelong cuddle buddies. Not only are they absolutely stunning, but they’re also incredibly sweet, playful, and full of charm. Get ready for double the purrs, lap naps, and snuggles with this adorable duo! These two will keep you entertained for hours with their playful antics, filling your home with laughter, love, and endless joy. Ash and Ember are guaranteed to brighten your world!

Ash and Ember would thrive in most homes, including a family with other cats, older children and possibly dogs. They are a brother and sister who have never been separated and would do best if adopted together.

If you are interested in meeting Ash and Ember, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in the shelter’s Meet and Greet room.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are 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.

Scene from 2024 St. James St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Rita J. Egan

By Heidi Sutton

St. James will turn shamrock green at the 41st annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 15 at 1 p.m. The festive celebration will feature scouts, dance troupes, pipe bands, school bands, floats, fire trucks, antique cars and more.

Presented by the St. James Chamber of Commerce, the parade will step off along Lake Avenue from Woodlawn Avenue to the viewing stand in front of the gazebo ending just before St James Elementary School, rain or shine.

This year’s Grand Marshal Robert J. Murphy, who has made great contributions to the St. James community, will lead the festivities.

Rain date will be March 22.  For more information, call 631-584-8510.

Irish pride continues on the North Shore with a St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16 in Rocky Point/Miller Place and Farmingdale; and on Sunday, March 23 in Ronkonkoma.