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'Sweet Dreams, Northport!'

By Melissa Arnold

We’re fortunate on Long Island to have so many beautiful places to explore. Each village has its own personality and unique perks, from popular mainstays to hidden gems.

Author and entrepreneur Tsvetta Kaleynska has traveled all over the world and takes great joy in uncovering the beauty in each new destination she visits. Originally from Bulgaria, the New York City resident wants to instill a love of travel and exploration not just in her own daughters, but in young readers everywhere.

‘Sweet Dreams, Northport!’

Kaleynska has written an independently-published series of Sweet Dreams children’s books and coloring books celebrating some of the world’s greatest cities, including Tokyo, London, and Madrid to name a few. And now, our very own Northport is among them.

“I ended up establishing my roots in [New York City]. After becoming a mom, my family and I began exploring what’s around NYC, and building an appreciation and love for new places and what our area has to offer,” Kaleynska said. “Several years ago, we stumbled upon Northport and instantly fell in love with it. We’ve had the privilege of meeting some of the local community as well, and I was inspired by the people of Northport who truly make this village feel so special.”

The illustrated, rhyming story for early readers says goodnight, one page at a time, to all of Northport’s recognizable landmarks. Main Street, the library and even the John W. Engeman Theater get their own shout-out, along with Eaton’s Neck Lighthouse, Ashroken Beach and Northport Village Park.

Kaleynska also makes a point to honor first responders and teachers, saying goodnight to them as well.

“I wanted to have a dedicated section for these special people and heroes, from our firefighters, policemen, and doctors to all the regular people whose kindness and warmth make Northport a remarkable place,” Kaleynska said.

Computer technology was used to turn photographs of Northport into vibrant and detailed illustrations. It’s easy to feel transported into the scenes and imagine yourself walking down by the harbor or looking into the windows of a shop on Main Street. 

Kaleynska said that each image was carefully crafted to bring Northport to life in a way that feels both familiar and inviting to young readers. And if these places are new to your family, the book offers a great excuse to jump in the car and go exploring.

“As for my favorite memory of Northport, there are so many! But one that stands out is sitting on a bench near the Northport dock with my husband and girls, sharing ice cream and watching the boats go by as the sun sets,” Kaleynska recalled. “Beautiful moments with loved ones like that is what inspires me daily.”

Perfect for toddlers ages 1 to 4, Sweet Dreams, Northport! is available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Keep in touch with the latest from Tsvetta Kaleynska on Instagram @tsvetta.

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Shipbuilder Nehemiah Hand (1814-1894)

This spring, the Three Village Historical Society and Museum (TVHS) and The Reboli Center for Art and History are inviting the community to step into the world of nineteenth-century shipbuilding with a new exhibition titled Built by Hand: The Shipbuilding Legacy of Nehemiah Hand. 

The exhibit, which opened on April 16 in the Englebright Gallery at the Reboli Center, 64 Main St., Stony Brook, sheds light on the craftsmanship, culture, and community that once thrived along the shores of Setauket Harbor.

A mid-nineteenth-century branding iron once owned by Nehemiah Hand will be one of the artifacts featured in the exhibit.

Curated by Scott Ferrara, Curator at TVHS, and Chris Ryon, Historian for the Village of Port Jefferson, Built by Hand tells the story of Nehemiah Hand, a prolific shipbuilder whose work helped define a maritime era in East Setauket. Through original tools, artifacts, photographs, and personal items, the exhibit offers visitors a rare look at the daily life and lasting impact of the shipbuilders who shaped the region’s history.

Among the highlights are a ship caulking mallet and caulking irons that once belonged to Benjamin Risley, a ship caulker who worked along Shore Road in the late 1800s, along with Hand’s own personal branding iron. Additionally, original artwork, maps, and photographs trace the outlines of the now-vanished shipyards that once lined Setauket’s shores.

This exhibition also marks a milestone in local collaboration: although TVHS has partnered with the Reboli Center on lectures in the past, Built by Hand is their first full-scale joint exhibit—one that highlights not just history but the spirit of cooperation between cultural institutions in the community.

Running alongside Built by Hand is Getting There, a transportation-themed art exhibition that delves into the artistic exploration of various modes of transportation, such as cars, trains, boats, and beyond and featuring work by Joseph Reboli, Mike McLaughlin, Nelson Medina, Peter Nettesheim, Doug Reina, Marshall Buck, Chris Kelsch and more. 

As a lively addition to the experience, visitors can also enjoy a rotation of classic motorcycle and car shows in the Center’s parking lot throughout the spring and early summer months.

An opening reception for both exhibits will be held on Friday, April 18, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., welcoming guests to explore the exhibit and connect with the curators behind it.

Built by Hand and Getting There will remain on view through July 6. For more information, call 631-751-7707 or visit www.rebolicenter.org.

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Easter Mini Cheesecakes

By Heidi Sutton

There’s only one thing that can pry their attention away from the chocolate in the Easter basket: one of these Cheesecake Minis — delicious desserts sure to make everyone’s tastebuds hop, courtesy of Kraft/Heinz.

Easter Cheesecake Minis

Easter Cheesecake Minis

YIELD: Makes 18 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

1-1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup butter, melted

3 packages (8 oz. each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened

3/4 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 eggs

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons desiccated unsweetened coconut, toasted

54 speckled chocolate eggs

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 325° F. Mix graham crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar and butter; press onto bottoms of 18 paper-lined muffin cups. Beat cream cheese, vanilla and remaining sugar with mixer until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Spoon over crusts. Bake 25 min. or until centers are almost set. Cool and refrigerate for two hours. Top each cheesecake with 1 tablespoon coconut; shape to resemble bird’s nest. Fill with malted milk eggs.

Chocolate-Pomegranate Cheesecake Minis

Chocolate-Pomegranate Cheesecake Minis

YIELD: Makes 24 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

1 and 1/2 cups finely crushed chocolate wafer cookies

3 tablespoons butter, melted

1-1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided

4 packages (8 oz. each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4 eggs

3/4 cup pomegranate juice

1/3 cup pomegranate seeds, patted dry

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 325°F. Combine cookie crumbs, butter and 2 tablespoons sugar; press onto bottoms of 24 paper-lined muffin pan cups. Beat cream cheese, vanilla and 1 cup of the remaining sugar in large bowl with mixer until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Spoon over crust. Bake 20 min. or until centers are almost set. Cool and refrigerate for 2 hours. 

Meanwhile, bring pomegranate juice and remaining sugar to boil in saucepan; simmer on medium-low heat 15 min. or until thickened, stirring frequently. Cool and then refrigerate until ready to use. 

Spoon pomegranate sauce over cheesecakes just before serving; sprinkle with pomegranate seeds.

Blueberry-topped Cheesecake Minis

Blueberry-topped Cheesecake Minis

YIELD: Makes 18 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided

3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

3 packages (8 oz. each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 eggs

1 cup whipping cream

2 cups blueberries

1 tablespoon lemon zest

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 325° F. Combine graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar and butter; press onto bottoms of 18 paper-lined muffin cups. 

Beat cream cheese, vanilla and remaining sugar with mixer until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Spoon over crusts. Bake 25 min. or until centers are almost set. Cool and refrigerate for two hours. Beat whipping cream with mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form; spread onto cheesecakes. 

Top with blueberries and zest.

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Rabbi Joshua Gray at Temple Isaiah’s Second Night Community Seder that took place on Sunday evening, April 13. Photo courtesy Rabbi Joshua Gray

By Rabbi Joshua Gray

Rabbi Joshua Gray. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Nothing brings me back to my childhood, gathered around the kids’ table with my brothers and cousins, like the Hillel sandwich. This singular Passover concoction is a mixture of maror (horseradish) and charoset (a sweet apple and nut mixture), packed between two pieces of matzah, or unleavened bread. If your mouth is not immediately watering at the sound of this combination, I don’t think anyone would blame you. It is only after you try this Passover staple that you fully understand the strangely amazing symphony that is the bitter herb dueting with the sweet pieces of apple and wine. All of this occurs between the satisfying crunch of the matzah. I assure you this combination is one that you, and your tastebuds, will never forget. 

Over 70 percent of Jewish people in the United States will attend a Passover, or Pesach, seder this year. The seder (meaning “order”) is a ritual meal, complete with storytelling, song and general togetherness. We use a special book  called a Haggadah to tell the story of the Israelite Exodus from slavery in Egypt, our subsequent opportunity to live as a free people, and the constant desire to reach our promised land, either literally or proverbially. We are told to continue the tradition; to pass down this important story l’dor vador, from generation to generation. Children are an integral part of the ritual, and we all kvell (burst with pride) as our littlest seder-goers muddle through their designated songs and readings. 

The aforementioned combination of bitter and sweet is no accident. The story of Passover and its rituals are a beautiful part of being Jewish. The message is also a universal one: with freedom comes the responsibility to work toward justice for all people. I always get a bit emotional during our seder when we recite the ten plagues of Egypt; the method by which the hard-hearted Pharaoh finally let the people of Israel go. It is tradition to remove a drop of wine from our cups as we recite aloud each plague. Why do we do this? On a macro level, we recognize that our cups of celebration are never completely full so long as others in the world suffer. The sweetness of freedom from bondage is fused with the bitterness that comes with the knowledge that there is still pain and unrest in our human community. We recognize that while we might be free, there are so many in our world who do not enjoy such self-determination. Individually, we might ask ourselves what could be holding us back from feeling entirely free. What might we be able to let go of that will allow us to live a more meaningful life? 

One of the most important moments in our seder comes as we recite the line: “In every generation each individual is bound to regard themselves as if they had personally gone forth from Egypt.”  Not only do we balance both bitterness and sweetness through the lens of Jewish memory, but we are specifically challenged to put ourselves in the place of those who have gone before us. We grow our empathy for the human family as we build this skill of compassionate curiosity. 

While the goals of Passover are lofty and the rituals might feel a bit baroque, just remember the Hillel sandwich. We are nourished by the tastes from our past as we strive toward a future of justice for all people. On a baser level, Passover evokes memories via taste, smell, song and story. I wish all of you a “Chag Pesach Sameach,” a Happy Passover, and remember, you are always welcome at my table. Try the Hillel sandwich. Trust me.

The author is the Rabbi at Temple Isaiah in Stony Brook.

 

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Take part in a community clean-up event during Earth Day. Photo courtesy of Wading River Shoreham Chamber of Commerce

By Heidi Sutton

Whether you choose to participate in a beach or park clean-up, nature walk or a fun festival, there are plenty of ways to show your love for the planet for Earth Day over the next few weeks.

Huntington

Family Fun Earth Day Celebration

Town of Huntington hosts a family-friendly Earth Day celebration at Manor Farm Park, 210 Manor Road, Huntington on Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can enjoy arts & crafts, Touch a Truck, live music, a marine touch tank, beekeeping demonstrations, storytime, giveaways and much more. 631-351-3175

Melville

Earth Day Celebration

West Hills County Park, Sweet Hollow Road, Melville and Suffolk County Leg. Rebecca Sanin will host an Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a DDR horse show, live poetry readings and music, lawn games, farmers market, food vendors, environmental information booths and free giveaways. No registration necessary. 631-854-5100

Mount Sinai

Community Beach Clean-Up

Town of Brookhaven will hold an Every Day is Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at the Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mount Sinai on Saturday, April 19 at 2 p.m. to remove litter and marine debris from the coastline. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Port Jefferson Station

Greenway Trail Cleanup

In celebration of Earth Day, the Three Village Community Trust will host a Friends of the Greenway trail clean-up at the Port Jefferson Station trailhead (parking lot by Rte. 112/Hallock Avenue) on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

Ronkonkoma

Bird Walk and Trash Cleanup

Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for a Bird Walk and Trash Cleanup at Lily Pond County Park, Smithtown Blvd., Lake Ronkonkoma on Tuesday, April 22 at 8 a.m.  in celebration of Earth Day and in memory of Diane Spitz, who spent many years as unofficial caretaker of the Park. Please bring gloves and bags. Email [email protected] to register.

Shoreham 

Metal for Tesla

Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, 5 Randall Rd, Shoreham will host its annual Metal for Tesla scrap metal drop-off event (appliances, car parts, shelving etc.) in honor of Earth Day on Saturday, April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 631-886-2632

Smithtown

Earth Day at Sweetbriar

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown invites the community to an Earth Day is Every Day celebration on Sunday, April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. Children will meet resident animals, make a craft and go on a scavenger hunt to find out some of the things they can do to help the natural world. Best for families with children over 4 years old. $15 per child, $5 per adults. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. For more info, call 631-979-6344.

Stony Brook

Earthstock Festival at SBU

The signature Earthstock Festival returns to Stony Brook University’s West campus, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on Friday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with vendors, live music, a duck race, lots of activities and performances. Free and open to all. Visit www.stonybrook.edu/earthstock.

Community Beach Clean-Up

Town of Brookhaven will hold an Every Day is Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at West Meadow Beach in Stony Brook on Saturday, April 19 at 10 a.m. to remove litter and marine debris from the coastline. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Train Station Beautification Project

The Three Village Community Trust invites the community to join them for the Stony Brook Train Station Beautification Project on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for Earth Day. The group will be weeding, clearing fallen branches, removing litter, de-vining trees, and other tasks to beautify the Station. Bring your gloves and garden tools. 631-942-4558

Wading River

SWR 2024 Earth Day Cleanup

The Wading River Shoreham Chamber of Commerce invites the community to  participate in an Earth Day Clean-up event on Sunday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. Meet at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River for a day of environmental stewardship. Supplies will be provided or feel free to bring you own. Community service credits available. Held rain or shine. Register at www.wadingrivershorehamchamber.com.

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Photo courtesy of PSEG Long Island

In honor of Earth Day, PSEG Long Island and Suffolk County, in partnership with the PSEG Foundation and the Arbor Day Foundation, will provide more than 230 customers in Suffolk County with a free tree through the Energy-Saving Trees program. The program showcases how planting the right trees in the right location can reduce utility bills and promote ongoing system reliability.

“Earth Day is a time for all of us to remember that we have a part to play in building a greener future,” said David Lyons, PSEG Long Island’s interim president and COO. “Strategically planting trees helps save up to 20% on a home’s summer energy bills once the trees are fully grown, while also improving air quality and reducing storm water runoff for all residents across Long Island and the Rockaways.”

The free energy-saving trees can be reserved at https://get.arborday.org/pseg starting Monday, April 14, until all trees are claimed. The reserved trees will then be available for pick-up on Tuesday, April 22, at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge, from 9 aim, to 12:30 p.m. All reserved trees will be held until noon, when they will become available on a first come, first served basis.

“We continue to identify opportunities to make Suffolk County environmentally sustainable, and planting just one tree can make a difference,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. “We encourage our residents to take part in the PSEGLong Island Energy Saving Trees program and work collaboratively to embrace clean energy and innovative solutions to improve our region’s air quality. Together we will continue to raise awareness and make a difference in Suffolk County.”

“Trees add beauty to neighborhoods, help reduce energy consumption, filter pollutants that negatively affect community health and wellbeing, and provide places of respite, along with many other benefits,” said Calvin Ledford, president of the PSEG Foundation. “The PSEG Foundation is proud to support the Energy-Saving Trees program, which will help provide more than 230 trees to the Suffolk County community. We are excited that our employees can volunteer to be part of this initiative distributing the trees and sharing energy efficiency information and help create a more environmentally sustainable ecosystem across Long Island and the Rockaways.”

The Energy-Saving Trees online tool helps customers estimate the annual energy savings that will result from planting trees in the most strategic location near their homes or businesses. All customers who participate will receive one tree and are expected to care for and plant them in the location provided by the online tool, taking into account utility wires and obstructions. The types of trees offered include red maple, river birch, scarlet oak, flowering dogwood, eastern red cedar and sweetbay magnolia.

PSEG Long Island will also be on site at the H. Lee Dennison Building on April 22 to share information about energy saving and financial assistance programs. In addition, they will distribute reusable shopping bags and free LED lightbulbs to save customers money and energy, and to support the environment. Information, shopping bags and lightbulbs are available to all customers. The Energy-Saving Trees must be reserved ahead of time.

PSEG Long Island will host a similar event in Nassau County on Saturday, April 26.

PSEG Long Island will also be a sponsor of the RISE Earth Day event in the Rockaways on Saturday, May 3, where the company will be giving away 35 trees on a first-come, first-served basis. The event takes place from noon to 3 p.m. at 58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd. in Far Rockaway.

In honor of Earth Day, PSEG Long Island is also offering free Google Nest smart thermostats to customers on its Online Marketplace through April 29.

Serving the community

PSEG Long Island is committed to giving back to the people and communities it serves by actively supporting hundreds of local charity events each year through the company’s Community Partnership Program. For more information on how PSEG Long Island supports the communities it serves, visit psegliny.com/inthecommunity/communitypartnership. 

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Benner's Farm hosts their Easter Egg Hunt Weekend on April 18, 19 and 20 this year. File photo by Rita J. Egan/ TBR News Media
PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature for children ages 2 to 4 on April 18 and April 25 at 9:30 a.m. Little ones will learn about nature through hands on interaction, music, crafts, stories, play and more. $20 per child per class. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Dragon Egg Workshop

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for at a Dragon Egg Workshop on April 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. From fire-breathing dragons to galloping unicorns, did you know the stories of many mythical animals were originally inspired by sea creatures? Explore the legends surrounding ​these fantastical beasts then create your own dragon egg with gilded sea shells! No registration required. Admission fee plus $10 per participant, $5 members. 631-367-3418

Family Game Night

Families with children through 6th grade are invited to stop by Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket on April 18 from  6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for Chicken vs. Hot Dog, The Keepy Uppy Game, Twist, & more! No registration required. Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

Little Artists Workshop

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a Little Artists Workshop on April 19 at 11:30 a.m. Artist Robert Stenzel will guide students in transforming recycled materials into unique owl designs. For children in Pre-K through 4th grade. Cost is $20 per child. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on April 21 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Spring Break at the Hatchery

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor celebrates Spring Break on April 21 with a hatchery tour at 11 a.m., fish feeding demonstrations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and live animal encounters at 2 p.m. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Flower Power

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program, Flower Power, on April 24 at 10:30 p.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent/caregiver will enjoy short walks, stories, dances, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. Register at ww.eventbrite.com.

EGG HUNTS

Cold Spring Harbor

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will hold an Egg Hunt for children ages 0 to 6 on April 17, 18 and 19 with 20 minute sessions scheduled throughout the day. Fee is $12 per participating child, $5 helper siblings ages 7 to 12, $7 adults, $6 seniors. Children must be accompanied by a parent. By reservation only at www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768

East Northport

Island Christian Church, 400 Elwood Road, East Northport will host a free Easter Egg Hunt on April 19  from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Activities will include face painting, crafts, games, bounce houses, photo-ops, and of course, hunting for eggs! You may even see the Easter Bunny! Held rain or shine. Free. Visit islandchristian.com/easter to register. 631-822-3000

East Setauket

— Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt celebration on April 18, 19 and 20 with craft vendors, barnyard animals to see and hold, an egg hunt in the fields (at your purchased time slot), pictures with the Spring Bunny and more! This is a ticketed event only. Tickets are sold online only for $13.50 per person. To register, visit www.bennersfarm.com. 631-689-8172

— Three Village Church, 322 Main St., East Setauket invites children up to 5th grade to an Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. with games, story time, crafts, face painting and more. No tickets needed. Free. 631-941-3670

Farmingville

Farmingville Historical Society will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt at Arboretum Park, 10 Maple Lane, Farmingville on April 19 at various times from noon to 3 p.m. Embark on an Easter Egg Adventure into the historic firehouse for fun activities, meet a real life bunny and take a photo with the Easter Bunny. $15 per child. Register at FHSLI.org.

Flanders

Children ages 2 to 9 are invited to join an  Easter egg hunt for “duck” eggs at The Big Duck Ranch, 1012 Flanders Road, Flanders on April 19 at noon. Prizes will be given out for the winners in each age group. Bring your camera for photo ops with the Easter Bunny. Free. Rain date is April 26. 631-284-3737.

Huntington

Children ages 1 to 8 can enjoy a spring celebration and egg hunt at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington on April 19 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Activities including a petting zoo, arts and crafts, a meet and greet with Mr. Bunny and a special concert by FunikiJam. $20 per child. Register at www.caumsettfoundation.org/programs.

Port Jefferson

Children ages 2 to 8 are invited to join the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce for an Easter Egg Hunt following the annual Easter Parade in the Village of Port Jefferson along Main Street on April 19 at 12:45 p.m. Line up in front of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson at 1 p.m. after the parade. Photo ops with the Easter Bunny will be from 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. Free. 631-473-1414

St. James

Rescheduled from April 12. St. James Chamber of Commerce will host a Spring Egg Hunt for children ages 1 to 10 at Deepwells Farm, 2 Tayor Lane, St. James on April 19 at 1 p.m. with a surprise visit from the Easter Bunny. Free. 631-584-5810

Setauket

Caroline Episcopal Church, 18 Caroline Ave., Setauket hosts a community Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy games, prizes, snacks, a live magic show, face painting, an Easter hat contest, hat parade and a special long-eared guest. Free. Register online at carolinechurch.net/egghunt2025. 631-941-4245

Wading River

Rescheduled from April 12. Bakewicz Farms, 291 Route 25A, Wading River will hold an Easter egg hunt on April 19 at 1:30 p.m. Every child will leave with eggs filled with candy, stickers, and toys. Enjoy face painting and take pictures with the Easter bunny. $15 per child. For tickets, visit www.bakewiczfarmsny.com.

FILM

‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of Sonic the Hedgehog on April 20 at noon. Powered with incredible speed, Sonic The Hedgehog embraces his new home on Earth. That is, until he accidentally knocks out the power grid and sparks the attention of super-uncool evil genius Dr. Robotnik. Now it’s super-villain vs. super-sonic in an all-out race across the globe to stop Robotnik from using Sonic’s unique power for world domination. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

THEATER

‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents 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. 

A Royal Princess Party

Tickets are now on sale for A Royal Princess Party: A Villainous Tale of Magic! at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from April 12 to May 4. Just in time for Spring Break, the princesses return to the Royal Kingdom of Smithtown to get together and explore some magical artifacts. Special surprises and magical touches make this show a royal treat! Tickets are $17.50 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson celebrates Spring Break with the return of The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 16 to May 10 with a sensory friendly performance on April 27 at 11 a.m. With the help of his sisters—Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail—and his cousin, Benjamin Bunny, Peter Rabbit learns the power of sharing and caring in this adorable musical. All seats are $10. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

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'AS SWEET AS PIE' Catch a performance of 'Waitress' at the Engeman Theater this weekend. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater

*Please note: Earth Day events will be posted separately.

Thursday April 17

Huntington Walking Tour

Huntington Historical Society presents a Masonic temple tour with Ron Seifried, Chairman, Jephtha Masonic Lodge and Town Historian Robert Hughes at 6:30 p.m. Participants will learn about their history, practices, mission, and historic significance, and will be able to enjoy a drink from the lodge bar. This tour will begin at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, located at 228 Main Street in Huntington Village. $25 per person, $20 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Friday April 18

Third Friday at the Reboli Center

The Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook invites the community to an opening reception of Getting There, an exhibition that delves into the artistic exploration of various modes of transportation and featuring the work of Joseph Reboli, Nelson Medina, Peter Nettesheim, Doug Reina, Marshall Buck, Chris Kelsch and more; and Built by Hand: The Shipbuilding Legacy of Nehemiah Hand  curated by the Three Village Historical Society and Museum from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. 631-751-7707

An Evening of Jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the Harry Allen Quartet in concert at 7 p.m. Harry Allen, 2024 inductee into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, joins with the great pianist Rossano Sportiello to lead a quartet with Mike Karn on bass and Aaron Kimmel on drums. This swinging quartet will perform selections from the Great American Songbook, the great jazz composers and original compositions. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children ages 6 and up. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Open Mic Night

Drop by the Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station for an Open Mic Night at 7 p.m. Whether you’re a poet, musician, singer or comedian, this is your time to shine. All acts welcome. Refreshments will be served. $10 admission. Register at www.waltwhitman.org.

Saturday April 19

Port Jefferson Easter Parade

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Easter Parade along Main Street in the Village of Port Jefferson at 12:45 p.m. Enjoy an old-fashioned “Easter Bonnet” walking parade from Theatre Three to the Port Jefferson Village Center (all are welcome to wear their Easter best and march) followed by an Easter Egg Hunt on Harborfront Park’s Great Lawn at 1 p.m. for children ages 2 to 8. 631-473-1414 

Yard Sale fundraiser

Farmingville Fire Department, 780 Horseblock Road Farmingville hosts a multi-family Yard Sale fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shop for toys, games, housewares, books, videos, clothing, outdoor items, costumes, small furniture and more. Proceeds benefit the Sachem Flaming Arrows Marching Band. 

Walking History Tour

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead will hold a Walking History Tour from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Richard Wines and Paul Hoffman will lead a tour of the farm about the Polish migration to Long Island during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  $10 per person, free for members. www.hallockville.org

Outdoor Thrift Garage Sale

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will hold an Outdoor Thrift Garage Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. around the double garage in its parking lot. Shop for household items and fun treasures! Proceeds benefit the wildlife center. 631-979-6344

Easter Celebration at the Shoppes

Join the Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River for an Easter Celebration with the Easter Bunny from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop for last minute Easter gifts while the kids enjoy a bounce house and carousel (fee) and take a free photo with the Easter Bunny. Held rain or shine. 631-929-3500

Easter Celebration in Smithtown

Rescheduled from April 12. Hop over to the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown for an Easter Celebration from noon to 2 p.m. Enjoy a day of farm fun with spring crafts, an Easter scavenger hunt for a special prize and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $10 per person, $7 members, children under the age of 3 in advance at www.eventbrite.com or at the door.

Sunday April 20

Intro to Wilderness Survival

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington presents an Intro to Wilderness Survival program from 9:45 a.m. to noon.  Learn how to find food, start a fire and build a shelter. Adults only. $4 per person. Call 631-423-1770 to register.

Monday April 21

TVHS lecture

Three Village Historical Society  continues its lecture series via Zoom at 7 p.m. with a presentation by author Mark Torres titled Long Island and the Legacy of Eugenics. Join them for a compelling and eye-opening discussion on the dark history of eugenics and its deep ties to Long Island. Advance registration required at www.tvhs.org.

Tuesday April 22

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to concert by singer and guitarist Johnny Whimple  at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

North Democratic Club Meeting

New location! The North Brookhaven Democratic Club monthly meeting tonight  from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. has been moved to the Small Activity Room at the North Shore Public Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham. For more information contact [email protected].

Wednesday April 23

Northport Volunteer Fair

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport will hold a Volunteer Fair from 10 a.m. to noon. Speak with representatives from over 20 local organizations that are actively seeking volunteers. No registration required. Questions Call 631-261-6930.

Arbor Day Celebration

Village of Port Jefferson invites the community to its 2nd annual Arbor Day Celebration in front of Village Hall on West Broadway from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a flag-raising ceremony designating the Village as a Tree City USA community, speeches from elected officials, the reading of a poem from a local school student, a tree planting in front of Village Hall and give-aways of native tree and shrub “whips.” Hosted by the PJV Tree Committee. All are welcome. Held rain or shine. 631-473-4724

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River kicks off a Cruise Night Car Show tonight and every Wednesday through October from 5 to 9 p.m. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic cars in the parking lot. 631-929-3500

Homemaker’s Spring Auction

The Miller Place Homemakers will hold a  Spring Auction featuring handmade items and beautiful baskets at Miller Place High School, 15 Memorial Drive, Miller Place at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary coffee, tea and refreshments. $10 entrance fee plus a non-perishable food item includes a door prize ticket and 25 auction tickets. 

Trivia Night at Curry Club

Join the Curry Club @ SaGhar, 111 West Broadway, Port Jefferson for a Night of Trivia at 7 p.m.  Enjoy a fun evening of questions, answers, and mouthwatering masala! Prizes for the winning team, fun for everyone. Free to play with purchase. Hosted by Think Inc. Trivia. For reservations, call 631-751-4845.

Thursday April 24

Winds & Whales lecture

Join the Whaling Museum in Cold Spring Harbor for an online lecture, Winds & Whales, at 6 p.m. Rhianna Bozzi from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will speak about recent progress in offshore wind and to sort out fact from fiction when it comes to the effects this development has on local whale populations. Free. $10 donation appreciated. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 p.m. to 8:45 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. Free. 631-655-7798

Vanderbilt Book Talk 

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series with Dr. John T. Tanacredi, Ph.D., Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Former Director of CERCOM (Center for Environmental Research and Coastal Oceans Monitoring), at Molloy University, who will give a talk on his latest book, The Redesigned Earth: A Brief Review of Ecology for Engineers, as if the Earth Really Mattered, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. To RSVP, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Next Chapter book signing

Join The Next Chapter Bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington welcomes former New York Mets and author Art Shamsky from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Shamsky will be speaking and signing copies of his book, Mets Stories I Only Tell My Friends. Free admission. www.thenextchapterli.com

Walt Whitman Birthplace lecture

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a lecture titled How Leaves of Grass Influenced Modern Day Self-Healing at 7 p.m. Museum curator Margaret Guardi and Curator Assistant Derry Schafer will discuss how Whitman’s fan and close friend Dr. Richard Maurice Bucke and his magnum opus Cosmic Consciousness. Tickets are $!0. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

An Evening of Comedy

The Comedy Club returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. with another outrageous night of live stand-up featuring Paul Anthony, John Larocchia and Joe DeVito. Come early and enjoy a beverage from Griswold’s Bar. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Film

‘The Lady of the Lake’

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  kicks off its Local Filmmakers Series with a screening of The Lady of the Lake on April 19 at 1 p.m. Based on the Native American folklore of the Princess of Lake Ronkonkoma, the movie was filmed in the actual childhood home of the Ronkonkoma-raised filmmaker, Maria Capp. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

‘The Here Now Project’

In honor of Earth Day, The Nature Conservancy will screen The Here Now Project at the  Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on April 23 at 6:30 p.m. Built out of thousands of hours of in-the-moment footage, the film transforms the ordinary act of shooting a cell phone video into the radical act of bearing witness, capturing both the simultaneous, global nature of climate change itself and the deeply human resilience, resourcefulness, and courage needed to confront it. Followed by a panel discussion. Free. To RSVP, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Front Row’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series closes its spring season with Front Row at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 24 at 7 p.m. The film showcases the Ukrainian National Ballet’s poignant company tour as it performs far from the frontlines and invites a soldier who lost his legs to partake in a singular performance. Followed by a discussion about the film and Ukraine with Professor Juliette Passer of Stony Brook University. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Pink Floyd at Pompeii’

A screening of Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII, the groundbreaking 1972 film directed by Adrian Maben, now digitally re-mastered in 4K from the original 35mm footage with enhanced audio, will be held at  the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on April 24 at 7:30 p.m. and April 27 at 7 p.m. Set in the haunting ruins of the ancient Roman Amphitheater in Pompeii, it showcases Pink Floyd performing an intimate concert without an audience. The film includes stunning visuals, behind-the-scenes moments, and unforgettable tracks like “Echoes” and “One of These Days” along with additional Abbey Road Studios documentary segments covering the recording of 1973’s The Dark Side of the Moon. Tickets are $18, $12 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Theater

‘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.

‘The Minutes’

North Shore United Methodist Church, 260 Rte. 25A, Wading River presents three performances of The Minutes on April 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and April 27 at 3 p.m. A comedy by Pulitzer Prize-winning Tracy Letts, the play is written as a city council meeting happening in real time, with a motley crew of community members vying for control and influence. Presented by Riverhead Faculty and Community Theatre, directed by Huck Hirsch. Tickets $20 adults, $15 students $15 in advance by calling 631-929-6075 or at the door. 

‘Wait Until Dark’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Wait Until Dark from April 18 to May 11. One of the American theatre’s greatest suspense plays, Jeffrey Hatcher’s gripping new adaptation of Frederick Knott’s classic sets the action in 1944 Greenwich Village. Susan, a woman who recently lost her vision, is imperiled by con men searching for a mysterious doll. Trapped in her apartment, Susan draws on new depths of resourcefulness as the story builds to its extraordinary, breath-taking conclusion. Contains adult situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’

Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents Priscilla, Queen of the Desert — The Musical in the Shea Theater in the Islip Arts Building April 17 to 19 and April 23 to 26 at 7:30 p.m. and  April 27 at 2 p.m. Based on the smash-hit movie, the play is the heartwarming, uplifting adventure of three friends, Tick, Bernadette and Adam, a glamorous Sydney-based performing trio who agree to take their show to the middle of the Australian outback. Featuring hits like “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” “Hot Stuff,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Go West,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” and “I Love The Nightlife.” General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID get one free ticket. To order, call 631-451-4163.

(mostly) TRUE THINGS 

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents a (mostly) TRUE THINGS Storytelling Show on April 26 at 7 p.m. Join them for a compelling evening of true stories – with a twist on the theme GAME ON! Hosted by Jude Treder-Wolff, the show will feature Marc Abbott, Aaron Foss, Cyndi Zaweski, and Jezrie-Mercano-Courtney. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only).

‘South Pacific’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Main Stage season with South Pacific from May 15 to June 29. This beloved musical takes place on a South Pacific island during World War II where two love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. With songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “Younger Than Spring-time,” and “There Is Nothin’ Like A Dame,” South Pacific’s lush score contains some of the best songs ever written by Rodgers & Hammerstein. For more information and to order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

Class Reunions

— Ward Melville High School Class of 1975 will hold its 50 year reunion at St George Golf & Country Club in East Setauket on June 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. $126.00 per person includes hors d’oeuvres, Prime Rib buffet dinner and open bar. Contact Cary Fichtner-Vu  at 703-861-8259 or [email protected] for tickets by June 2. No walk-ins. 

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. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 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. from Jan. 12 through April 27. 631-802-216

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.

 

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Get out and enjoy Spring!

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Ah, the paradox of Spring. Trees and bushes are in full bloom, and flowers are popping up everywhere. For those with seasonal allergies — also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever — it’s challenging to balance the desire to be outside with the discomfort it can bring.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 25.7 percent of U.S. adults and 18.9 percent of children were diagnosed with seasonal allergies in 2021 (1). Triggers include pollen from leafy trees, shrubs, grass, flowering plants, and weeds.

What prompts allergic reactions?

Sufferers experience a chain reaction when they inhale pollen. It interacts with immunoglobulin E (IgE), antibodies that are part of our immune system and causes mast cells in the body’s tissues to degrade and release inflammatory mediators. These include histamines, leukotrienes, and eosinophils in those who are susceptible. In other words, it is an allergic inflammatory response.

The revved up immune system then responds with sneezing; red, itchy and watery eyes; scratchy throat; congestion; sinus headaches; postnasal drip; runny nose; diminished taste and smell; and even coughing (3). It can feel like a common cold, but without the virus. If you have symptoms that last more than 10 days and are recurrent, then it is more likely you have allergies than a virus.

If allergic rhinitis is not treated, it can lead to complications like ear infections, sinusitis, irritated throat, insomnia, chronic fatigue, headaches and even asthma (4).

What medications help? 

If you don’t want to seal yourself inside, to prevent allergy attacks, you might consider medications to reduce your symptoms.

Options include intranasal glucocorticoids (steroids), oral antihistamines, allergy shots, decongestants, antihistamine and decongestant eye drops.

The guidelines for treating seasonal allergic rhinitis with medications suggest that you use intranasal corticosteroids (steroids) when your quality of life suffers (5). Two commonly used inhaled steroids are triamcinolone (Nasacort) and fluticasone propionate (Flonase). They need to be used daily and can cause side effects, including headaches.

If itchiness and sneezing are your greatest challenges, second-generation oral antihistamines may be appropriate. These can be taken “as needed.” Examples include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra). These have less sleepiness as a side effect than first-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl, but they don’t work for everyone.

Is butterbur an effective treatment?

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) leaf extract has several small studies that indicate its efficacy in treating seasonal allergies. Butterbur is a shrub found in Europe, Asia and North America. 

In one randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 131 patients, results showed that butterbur was as effective as cetirizine (Zyrtec) (6). In another RCT, results showed that high doses of butterbur — 1 tablet given three times a day for two weeks — was significantly more effective than placebo (7). Researchers used butterbur Ze339 (carbon dioxide extract from the leaves of Petasites hybridus L., 8 mg petasines per tablet) in the trial.

A post-marketing follow-up study of 580 patients showed that, with butterbur Ze339, symptoms improved in 90 percent of patients with allergic rhinitis over a two-week period (8). Gastrointestinal upset occurred as the most common side effect in 3.8 percent of the study population.

There are several important caveats about using butterbur. The leaf extract used in studies was free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). PAs have been implicated in causing liver and lung damage and may cause cancer (9). Also, studies used well-measured doses, which may not be the case with over-the-counter extracts. Finally, there are interactions with some prescription medications.

If you are allergic to butterbur-related plants, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies, butterbur may cause an allergic reaction (9).

Can dietary changes treat seasonal allergies? 

There are no significant studies specifically on using diet; however, there is one literature review that suggests a plant-based diet may reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies in teens, as well as eczema and asthma (10). In my clinical practice, many patients with seasonal allergies have improved and even reversed the course of allergies over time with a vegetable-rich, plant-based diet. This might be due to its anti-inflammatory effects. Analogously, some physicians suggest that their patients have improved after removing dairy from their diets.

While allergies can make you miserable, there are many over-the-counter and prescription options to help. Diet may play a role by reducing inflammation. There does seem to be promise with butterbur extracts, there are caveats. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements, herbs or over-the-counter medications.

References:

(1) CDC.gov. (2) acaai.org/allergies/types/pollen-allergy. (3) J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2003 Dec;112(6):1021-31.. (4) J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Jan;125(1):16-29.. (5) Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Feb;2:197-206. (6) BMJ 2002;324:144. (7) Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2004 Dec;130(12):1381-6. (8) Adv Ther. Mar-Apr 2006;23(2):373-84. (9) ncchih.nih.gov. (10) Eur Respir J. 2001;17(3):436-443.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

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The Suffolk County Department of Health Services in conjunction with the Town of Brookhaven will offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven.

Although the clinic is available to all Suffolk County residents, the quantity of vaccine is limited and available only while supplies last. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats and ferrets must be in carriers. No reservations required.

Can’t make it that day? The shelter will also hold free rabies vaccination clinics on May 31, June 28, July 26 and Aug. 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Take the time to protect your beloved pets against rabies. They give us so much joy and love and deserve to be kept safe, ” said County Executive Ed Romaine.

Rabies, a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system, is most often seen among wild animals such as raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes, but any mammal can be infected with rabies. Pets and livestock can get rabies if they are not vaccinated to protect them against infection.

New York State and Suffolk County laws require that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinating pets not only provides protection for the animals but also acts as a barrier to keep the rabies virus from spreading between wild animals and people as three to six percent of the bats that are tested annually are positive for rabies.

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services recommends the following precautions to protect your pets and your family from possible exposure to rabies:

  • Do not feed, touch, or approach wild animals, or stray dogs or cats.
  • Be sure your pet dogs, cats, and ferrets as well as horses and other livestock animals are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
  • Pets too young to be vaccinated should be kept indoors and allowed outside only under direct observation.
  • Keep family pets indoors at night. Do not leave them outside unattended or let them roam free.
  • Do not attract wild animals to your home or yard. Keep your property free of stored bird seed or other foods that may attract wild animals. Feed pets indoors. Tightly cover or put away garbage cans. Board up any openings to your attic, basement, porch, or garage. Cap your chimney with screens.
  • Do not transport or relocate any wild animals.
  • Teach children not to touch any animal they do not know and to tell an adult immediately if they are bitten by any animal.

To keep bats from getting into buildings, bat-proofing techniques should include:

  • Not leaving unscreened doors open to the outside
  • Not leaving unscreened windows open to the outside
  • Making sure windows have screens, chimneys are capped, and electrical and plumbing openings are plugged
  • Sealing all openings that are larger than 1/2 inch
  • Using materials such as expanding spray-on foam, caulk, wire mesh, wood that fits tightly, steel wool (around pipes that enter buildings), or polypropylene bird netting, to seal or cover gaps and holes.

Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services at (631) 854-0333 weekdays, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Animal bites or contact with wild animals can be reported to the Department at (631) 852-4820 outside normal business hours. If possible, try to contain the animal so that it can be tested.

For more information on rabies, follow the links below:

For information about the rabies vaccination clinic, call the Brookhaven Animal Shelter at (631) 451-6950 or visit www.brookhavenny.gov/AnimalShelter.

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