Flu, RSV and COVID-19 are especially tough on those with impaired lung function
By David Dunaief, M.D.
Dr. David Dunaief
Our experiences over the past several years with COVID-19 have increased our awareness of how chronic ailments can make us more vulnerable to the consequences of acute diseases circulating in our communities.
For those with chronic obstructive lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, as well as those who smoke and vape, the consequences of the flu, RSV and COVID-19 are especially severe.
The good news is that we can do a lot to improve our lung function by exercising, eating a plant-based diet with a focus on fruits and vegetables, expanding lung capacity with an incentive spirometer, and quitting smoking and vaping, which damage the lungs (1). Studies suggest that everyone will benefit from these simple techniques, not only people with compromised lungs.
Do antioxidants improve asthma?
In a randomized controlled trial, results show that, after 14 days, asthma patients who ate a high-antioxidant diet had greater lung function than those who ate a low-antioxidant diet (2). They also had lower inflammation at 14 weeks. Inflammation was measured using a c-reactive protein (CRP) biomarker. Participants in the low-antioxidant group were over two-times more likely to have an asthma exacerbation.
The good news is that there was only a small difference in behavior between the high- and low-antioxidant groups. The high-antioxidant group had a modest five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit daily, while the low-antioxidant group ate no more than two servings of vegetables and one serving of fruit daily. Using carotenoid supplementation in place of antioxidant foods did not affect inflammation. The authors concluded that an increase in carotenoids from diet has a clinically significant impact on asthma in a very short period.
Can increasing fiber lower COPD risk?
Several studies demonstrate that higher consumption of fiber from plants decreases the risk of COPD in smokers and ex-smokers.
In one study of men, results showed that higher fiber intake was associated with significant 48 percent reductions in COPD incidence in smokers and 38 percent incidence reductions in ex-smokers (3). The high-fiber group ate at least 36.8 grams per day, compared to the low-fiber group, which ate less than 23.7 grams per day. Fiber sources were fruits, vegetables and whole grain, essentially a whole foods plant-based diet. The “high-fiber” group was still below the American Dietetic Association’s recommended intake of 14 grams per 1,000 calories each day.
In another study, this time with women, participants who consumed at least 2.5 serving of fruit per day, compared to those who consumed less than 0.8 servings per day, experienced a highly significant 37 percent decreased risk of COPD (4).
The highlighted fruits shown to reduce COPD risk in both men and women included apples, bananas, and pears.
What devices can help improve lung function?
An incentive spirometer is a device that helps expand the lungs when you inhale through a tube and cause a ball (or multiple balls) to rise in a tube. This inhalation opens the alveoli and may help you breathe better.
Incentive spirometry has been used for patients with pneumonia, those who have had chest or abdominal surgery and those with asthma or COPD, but it has also been useful for healthy participants (5). A small study showed that those who trained with an incentive spirometer for two weeks increased their lung function and respiratory motion. Participants were 10 non-smoking healthy adults who were instructed to take five sets of five deep breaths twice a day, totaling 50 deep breaths per day. Incentive spirometers are inexpensive and easily accessible.
In another small, two-month study of 27 patients with COPD, the incentive spirometer improved blood gasses, such as partial pressure carbon dioxide and oxygen, in COPD patients with exacerbation (6). The authors concluded that it may improve quality of life for COPD patients.
How does exercise help improve lung function?
Exercise can have a direct impact on lung function. In a study involving healthy women aged 65 years and older, results showed that 20 minutes of high-intensity exercise three times a day improved FEV1 and FVC, both indicators of lung function, in just 12 weeks (7). Participants began with a 15-minute warm-up, then 20 minutes of high-intensity exercise on a treadmill, followed by 15 minutes of cool-down with stretching.
Note that you don’t need special equipment to do aerobic exercise. You can walk up steps or steep hills in your neighborhood, do jumping jacks, or even dance around your living room. Whatever you choose, you want to increase your heart rate and expand your lungs. If this is new for you, consult a physician and start slowly. You’ll find that your stamina improves quickly when you do it consistently.
We all should be working to strengthen our lungs. This three-pronged approach of lifestyle modifications — diet, exercise and incentive spirometer — can help.
References:
(1) Public Health Rep. 2011 Mar-Apr; 126(2): 158-159. (2) Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Sep;96(3):534-43. (3) Epidemiology Mar 2018;29(2):254-260. (4) Int J Epidemiol Dec 1 2018;47(6);1897-1909. (5) Ann Rehabil Med. Jun 2015;39(3):360-365. (6) Respirology. Jun 2005;10(3):349-53. (7) J Phys Ther Sci. Aug 2017;29(8):1454-1457.
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.
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection is key to long-term survival rates of prostate cancer, which is why Stony Brook Medicine’s Department of Urology and Stony Brook Cancer Center offers free Prostate Cancer Screenings throughout the year.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American men. Approximately 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1 in 41 men will die of the disease. As you get older, your risk increases.
Men aged 45-75 years, African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer may benefit from early screenings. In most cases, prostate cancer has no symptoms and is usually detected through a screening.
This month, free screenings will be held at Stony Brook Medicine’s Advanced Specialty Care, 500 Commack Road, Suite 201B, Commack on Sept. 19 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and at Stony Brook Urology, 24 Research Way, Suite 500, East Setauket on Sept. 20 from 2 to 5 p.m.
Appointments are strongly recommended. Insurance is not required. To make an appointment, call 631-216-9181.
Welcome to the 21st edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home!
Audrey
Meet Audrey
The iconic Audrey Hepburn once stated, “They say love is the best investment; the more you give, the more you get in return.” Starring in her own love story, meet Little Shelter’s fair lady Audrey, an eight-year-old Chihuahua mix. Much like her namesake, she is gracious, charming, optimistic and kind. Slightly awkward on her stilt like legs, she is nonetheless completely endearing and you’ll fall head over heels at first glance, despite her housebreaking issues! Always stylishly outfitted and ready for breakfast at Tiffany’s, her favorite spot is tucked under your arm, right next to your heart. Stop by to meet this little funny face and welcome Audrey home. 631-368-8770, ext. 21
Reed
Meet Reed
Calling all Shepherd lovers! Meet handsome and intelligent Reed! This sweet boy came to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter as a stray in August and sadly no one came to claim him. This 100 lb hunk is approximately 4 years old and is full of energy. He loves to go for walks and knows several commands. He would do best in a home with children 16 years and does well around other dogs but he is NOT a fan of his feline friends. If you would like to meet Reed, please apply through the shelter’s matchmaker application at www.brookhavenny.gov/152/Animal-Shelter. 631-451-6950
Smokey
Meet Smokey
Sweet senior Smokey was adopted from the Smithtown Animal Shelter as a kittenin 2009 and returned when his mom fell on hard times and had to move. This brown and white tabby is all affection all of the time. He is as gentle as he is handsome and has lived with another cat in the past. Smokey has a clean bill of health and just wants to be spoiled in his golden years. Will that be with you? 631-360-7575
Cash
Meet Cash
Cash in on Cash! Currently up for adoption at Save-A-Pet in Port Jefferson Station, this 2.5 year old sweetheart has been through a lot in his short life. He was born with bilateral luxating patellas (knee issues) which an orthopedic surgeon repaired. He has been recovering in foster care for the last few months and is now looking for a lifelong loving home of his own. Cash is 100% housed-trained. He knows many basic commands and is easily redirected. He learns very quickly and just wants to be your best boy. He loves being outside and playing with his toys — heeven plays fetch!
Cash would do best with a family who has a fenced in yard and who will make sure he gets enough exercise and stimulation. He’s great on the leash and polite on walks and while meeting neighbors. He gets along great with other dogs and leaves the cats alone. Don’t miss your opportunity to add this phenomenal pup to your family! 631-473-6333, www.saveapetusa.org
Meet Mickey Mouse
This is Mickey Mouse, 1-year-old charming little guy at Little Shelter who’s looking for his forever family. He has an outgoing, sociable personality and enjoys being the center of attention. Despite his small size, he’s overflowing with character and loves to be in the midst of all the fun. Come by and say hello to him today! 631-368-8770, ext. 21
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Teachers Pet event
Did you know? The Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, 300 Horseblock Road, Brookhaven hosts a “Teacher’s Pet” event through the month of September. All animals that are of “school age” (4 years and up) are free. For more information, call 631-451-6950.
Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue ofOctober 12.
Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.
Some WTC 911 responders are suffering from PTSD and cognitive disorders many years after 911. Researchers are trying to determine why as they continue monitoring patients.
Photo courtesy of Stony Brook WTC Health and Wellness Program
Twenty-two years after the September 11 World Trade Center attacks, responders who have suffered physical and cognitive illnesses resulting from exposures continue to be monitored by healthcare providers. Ongoing studies by investigators at the Stony Brook WTC Health and Wellness Program reveal that assessments of this patient population’s mental health and cognitive status remain on the forefront of research as we move further away from that fateful day of 9/11.
Benjamin Luft, MD, Director and Principal Investigator of the Stony Brook WTC Health and Wellness Program, and the Edmund D. Pellegrino Professor of Medicine at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, and his colleagues study all aspects of responders’ health status. The program monitors approximately 13,000 WTC responders.
Previous research has shown that some responders may be experiencing cognitive difficulties earlier in life than the general population, and that PTSD, which remains one of their most common ailments, may be associated with cognitive problems and/or physical illnesses.
A compilation of new research published over the past yearsuggeststhe need to delve further into investigating the brain status of responders and their cognitive problems.
A study in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology assessed more than 700 responders, many with chronic PTSD, and the relationship between having cortical atrophy and behavioral impairments. They found that individuals with PTSD start to experience more mental health symptoms as a secondary symptom to cognitive impairments. Specifically, responders with an increased risk of cortical atrophy showed behavioral impairment in motivation, mood, disinhibition, empathy and psychosis.
Published in Molecular Neurobiology, another study revealed that there are associations between WTC exposure duration and inflammation in the brains of responders among 99 responders who participated from 2017 to 2019, with the average age being only 56 years. Neuroinflammation was evident both in the hippocampus, a part of the brain that helps to regulate emotions and memory, and throughout much of the cerebral white matter.
A paper published in Psychological Medicine highlights research that may reveal a better way tounderstand responders’ PTSD symptoms, as opposed to self-reporting or screening. This work found that by using an AI program that reads the words of responders can predict their current PTSD and even the future trajectory of the illness.
Moreover, WTC investigators are developing AI programs to identify and predict psychological symptoms from facial expressions and tone of voice. AI analyzes video recordings of WTC responders. Importantly, when these methods are fully developed, they may be able to offer objective diagnostic tests for PTSD and other mental disorders.
Many responders to date have experienced mild cognitive impairment in comparison to non-responders their age.
A study that measured a key aspect of brain chemistry — proteins or biomarkers often associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease — may provide specific evidence that responders need to be monitored for earlier onset dementia.
Published in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Diagnosis, Assessment and Disease Monitoring, this study illustrates that among approximately 1,000 responders —average age at 56.6 years, and some who have dementia — associations exist between WTC exposures and the prevalence of neurodegenerative proteins in their brains.
Lead author Sean Clouston, PhD, Professor in the Program of Public Health, and the Department of Family, Population, and Preventive Medicine, and colleagues found that 58 percent of responders with dementia had at least one elevated biomarker and nearly 3.5 percent had elevations in all biomarkers. The overall cohort had an increased risk of dementia associated with plasma biomarkers indicative of neurodegenerative disease.
Another core member of the Stony Brook research team, Pei-Fen Kean, PhD, Professor in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, is involved in several ongoing multi-omics research projects to help explicate pathophysiology of these disorders on molecular level and identify novel blood-based biomarkers. For example, a study in the Translational Psychiatry identified the metabolomic-proteomic signatures associated with PTSD to enhance understanding of the biological pathways implicated in PTSD.
As the collaborative work of the research teams affiliated with the Stony Brook WTC Health and Wellness Program moves forward, they will use previous findings and new methods to build their work to best assess the mental and physical health conditions of responders.
It’s time to bring your hay-game! The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) is currently accepting submissions for its annual Scarecrow Competition. This will be the 33rd year the spooky and silly six-foot creations will adorn the pathways of picturesque Stony Brook Village Center for visitors to enjoy and vote for their favorite. Register as an individual, group or professional and create a scarecrow masterpiece.
You can pick up a registration form at any of the shops in Stony Brook Village, or you can download it digitally from the events section of the Stony Brook Village Center website. To enter this competition, please return the completed registration form to The Ward Melville Heritage Organization, P.O. Box 572, Stony Brook, NY 11790, with the entry fee of $30 by Sept. 20.
Vote for your favorite scarecrows by picking up a ballot at any of the shops and restaurants at the Stony Brook Village Center from Sept. 30 to Oct. 25. Winners will be notified on Oct. 27 by 5 p.m. and will be announced during the WMHO’s Halloween Festival on Oct. 31.
For more information, please call the WMHO at 631-751-2244.
Catch a screening of 'Puss In Boots: The Last Wish' at the Cinema Arts Centre this Sunday.
Photo courtesy of CAC
PROGRAMS
Fruits & Veggies
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Tiny Tots program, Fruits & Veggies, on Sept. 14 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. with a short walk, story time, animal visitors and crafts. For children ages 3 to 5. $4 per child. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.
Skull Scavenger Hunt
In anticipation of Halloween, the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a Skull Scavenger Hunt now through Oct. 22. Hunt for papier-mache skulls around the museum in this seasonal, spooky scavenger hunt. Find them all and win a prize! Free with admission. Members free. No registration needed. Gallery hours are Thursday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 631-367-3418.
Story & Craft with Nana Carol
The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts A Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Sept. 18 and 25 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008
FILM
‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish on Sept. 17 at noon. Everyone’s favorite swashbuckling feline returns for a new adventure in the Shrek universe as Puss in Boots embarks on an epic journey into the Black Forest to find the mythical Wishing Star and restore his lost lives. Rated PG. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
THEATER
‘The Wizard of Oz’
Children’s theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with The Wizard of Oz from Sept. 23 to Oct. 29. After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, Dorothy Gale teams up with a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodsman, and a Cowardly Lion to find the mighty Wizard of Oz who can send her home. Dorothy learns just how magical friendship can be and how wonderful it can feel to go home again. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘A Kooky Spooky Halloween’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents A Kooky Spooky Halloween, a merry musical about a ghost who’s afraid of the dark, from Oct. 7 to 21 with a sensory sensitive performance on Oct. 8. Recently graduated spirit Abner Perkins is assigned to the Aberdeen Boarding House — known for its spectral sightings and terrific toast. Here, Abner finds himself cast into a company of its wacky residents. When his secret is revealed, he is forced to leave his haunted home and set-off on a quest with his newly found friends and his best friend Lavinda the witch. All tickets are $12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
A DAY ON THE WATER
Join the Setauket Harbor Task Force for kayak lessons, a boat ride, music, crafts and more during Setauket Harbor Day on Sept. 17 (event moved from Sept. 16). Photo by Maria Hoffman
Ongoing
Stone Bridge Nighthawk Watch
Every evening from Aug. 27 through Oct. 6, from 5:30 p.m. until dusk, the Four Harbors Audubon Society will be tallying migrating Common Nighthawks to better understand nighthawk population trends. Join them at the Stone Bridge at Frank Melville Memorial Park, One Old Field Road, Setauket to witness nighthawks as they pass over during their migratory journey to their wintering grounds in Brazil and Argentina. Visit www.4has.org for further details.
Thursday Sept. 14
An Evening Under the Stars
Huntington Historical Society hosts its annual fall fundraiser, An Evening Under the Stars Reimagined, at the Kissam House, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy a cocktail party withhors d’oeuvres, food trucks, wines and beer from local breweries and live music performed by the Bogs. Tickets are $150 per person, $130 members at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org. 631-427-7045
Friday Sept. 15
Greenlawn Greek Festival
St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Shrine Church, 1 Shrine Place, Greenlawn invites the community to its annual Greek Festival tonight from 6 to 10 p.m., and Sept. 16 and 17 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy authentic Greek food and pastries, rides and games. 631-261-7272, www.stparaskevi.org
Third Friday at the Reboli
The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series with an engaging talk with exhibiting artist Mickey Paraskevas from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Light refreshments and light snacks will be served at this free event. No reservations are required to attend. 631-751-7707
Saturday Sept. 16
Greenlawn Greek Festival
See Sept. 15 listing.
Dragon Boat Race Festival
The 9th annual Dragon Boat Race Festival heads to Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Presented by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, the event will showcase dragon boat races throughout the day with Asian-themed food, cultural crafts, traditional lion dance, children activities and much more. Held rain or shine. Free admission. 631-473-1414, https://portjeffdragonboatracefest.com
St. Elizabeth Car Show
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton R.C. Church, 800 Portion Road, Lake Ronkonkoma presents its annual car show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with trophies, prizes and raffles. Spectators free. 631-484-2807
Garlic Festival
New location! Waterdrinker Farm, 663 Wading River Road, Manorville hosts the 21st annual Long Island Garlic Festival today and Sept. 17 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Go on a garlic scavenger hunt, learn about garlic on a musical hayride, try garlic ice cream with live music, vendor market, food trucks and family activities. Admission is $20 per person. 631-878-8653
Community Yard and Craft Sale
St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church, 18 Magnolia Place, Selden will host an outdoor yard and craft sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families and vendors will be selling merchandise of all kinds, including yard sale wares, handmade clothing, jewelry, wreaths and more! 631-732-8773
Antiques, Flea Market & Craft Fair
The Manorville Historical Society will hold its 33rd annual Antiques, Craft Fair and Flea Market on the grounds of The Maples, 10 Ryerson Ave., Manorville from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Antiques, flea market items, handmade crafts, food and raffle auction. 631-878-8358
Setauket Country Fair
Caroline Episcopal Church of Setauket invites the community to it annual Country Fair on the grounds of the church (1 Dyke Road, Setauket) and the Setauket Village Green across from Emma Clark Library on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 60 arts, crafts and gift vendors, barn sale, food court, baked goods, basket raffle and live music. Free admission. Rain date is Sept. 23. 631-941-4245
Treasures Sale
Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket will hold a Treasures Sale in Fellowship Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come shop for toys, games, jewelry, attic treasures, homegoods, and antiques. Baked goods and drinks will also be for sale. 631-941-4271
Pickle Festival
John Gardiner Farm, 900 Park Ave., Greenlawn presents its 43rd annual Pickle Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy specialty pickles, jams, farmer’s market, craft vendors, corn maze, hayrides and a ride on the restored Lollipop Farm train. Admission is $5. 631-754-1180
Craft Fair Weekend
It’s apple season on the North Fork and while you’re heading out east visit the Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River for a Craft Fair Weekend today and Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy local craft vendors, bounce house, carousel and face painting for kids. 631-846-2370
San Gennaro Feast
Lenny Bruno Farms, 740 Wading River Road, Manorville presents the annual San Gennaro Feast: A traditional Italian-American celebration of food, fun, and family, today from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring a vendor market, food trucks, games, beer and wine tastings, visit with farm animals and more. Admission is $10 per person, children 2 and under are free. 631-591-3592
Setauket Harbor Day – This event has been postponed to September 17.
Come celebrate the history of beautiful Setauket Harbor at the Brookhaven Town Dock and Beach on Shore Road from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy free kayak lessons and boat rides, learn about Setauket’s shipbuilding past and view displays of the marine environment of a thriving harbor. Enjoy live music, food, arts and crafts and more. Sponsored by the Setauket Harbor Task Force. Free. 631-404-6447
German Fall Festival
St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 30 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown presents its annual German Fall Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring brats & beer, German baked goods, pickles, pretzels, hair braiding, vendors, bracelet making, children’s games, bounce house and raffles. Rain date is Sept. 23. 631-265-2288, www.standrewsofsmithtown.org
Victorian Tea
Join the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society for a Victorian Tea at the Fitz-Greene Hallock Homestead (1888), 2869 Pond Road, Lake Ronkonkoma with two seatings: 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a full Victorian Tea lunch, self-guided tour of the house and grounds and door prizes. $30 per person with timed seating. Reservations required. 631-588-7599
Baseball on the Farm
Preservation Long Island and the Long Island Museum have teamed up to host aBaseball on the Farm event with the New York Mutual Base Ball Club at the Sherwood-Jayne Farm, 55 Old Post Road, E. Setauket from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy an authentic 19th-century ballgame with the New York Mutual Base Ball Club against the Atlantics with live music, games, prizes, food and more. Free admission. Rain date Sept. 17. www.preservationlongisland.org
Car Show Fundraiser
Brandywine Living at Huntington Terrace, 70 Pinelawn Road, Melville will host a Classic Car Show to benefit veterans at 2 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase food and beverages to benefit Tunnels to Towers, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans and enjoy live music. 631-531-0000
Sunday Sept. 17
Greenlawn Greek Festival
See Sept. 15 listing.
Garlic Festival
See Sept. 16 listing.
San Gennaro Feast
See Sept. 16 listing.
Craft Fair Weekend
See Sept. 16 listing.
Caumsett Hike
Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a6 mile, hilly, moderately paced walk to relax, socialize, and enjoy the park’s beauty from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. $4 per person. Advance reservations required by calling 631-423-1770
Taps & Talons at Hoyt Farm
Hoyt Farm, 200 New Highway, Commack host a Taps and Talons fundraiser for Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown from 2 to 6 p.m. With over 15 breweries, the event features beer tastings, live music, and wildlife demonstrations. This event is 21 and over; photo ID is required. Car pooling and ride share encouraged. Tickets are $45 per person at www.sweetbriarnc.org.
John Avlon
CAC welcomes CNN’s John Avlon
Long Island LitFest presents an in-person talk with CNN news anchor and award-winning columnist John Avlon, as he discusses his latest book, Lincoln and the Fight for Peace with his wife, Margaret Hoover, the host of PBS’ “Firing Line with Margaret Hoover,” at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington at 2 p.m. Tickets are $40, $35 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.
LITMA Contradance
Smithtown Historical Society’s Frank Brush Barn, 210 E. Main St., Smithtown will host a LITMA Contradance from 2 to 5 p.m. Basic instruction will be held at 1:45 p.m. Ridge Kennedy will be calling the Dance with music by Blarney Possum. $15 general admission, $10 LITMA members, $7.50 students, hildren under 16 free with paid adult. Please bring snacks to share at the break. 631-369-7854
Songwriters of LI Concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by Songwriters of Long Island at 3 p.m. An ‘all-star’ lineup will be performing several of their original songs each including Bob Sinclair, Frank “Kingee” Latorre, Rorie Kelly, Erik Semo, Martha Trachtenberg and Hank Stone. Free with admission to the museum. 631-689-5888,visit www.limusichalloffame.org.
Baroque Sundays at Three
Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Baroque Sundays at Three concert in the Recital Hall at 3 p.m. Featuring Jeremy Rhizor on Baroque Violin, Arnie Tanimoto on Viola da Gamba and Marc Bellassai on Harpsichord. These performances are free of charge to the public and ask only for a good-will donation of $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. 631-632-7330
Monday Sept. 18
TVHS lecture
Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket tonight at 7 p.m. Author Brad Kolodny will discuss his latest book, Seeking Sanctuary: 125 Years of Synogogues on Long Island. Free and open to all. www.tvhs.org
Sky Room Talk
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents a Sky Room Talk titledThe Seriously Funny Cinema of Mel Brooks at 7:30 p.m. Film Historian Glenn Andreiev presents a one-night talk on the great Mel — with laugh-filled clips of his work in television and film. Tickets are $17, $12 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Tuesday Sept. 19
Travel Presentation Club
The Travel Presentation Club will meet at 7 p.m. at tEmma S. Clark Memorial Library , 120 Main Street in Setauket. Janice and F. James Rohlf will make a presentation entitled “Adventures at Ningaloo Riff and the Kimberley, Western Australia”. All are welcome. Please contact [email protected] for further information.
Wednesday Sept. 20
Harbor Jazz Festival
Jazz lovers are invited to attend the 8th annual Harbor Jazz Festival at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook from Sept. 20 to 23. Each day brings a line-up of jazz greats, including some of the top internationally and nationally recognized talents. All events on Sept. 23 are free and take place on the front lawn of the Jazz Loft and on the Stony Brook Village Green. 631-751-1895, www.thejazzloft.org
Hard Luck Cafe concert
Nashville-based singer-songwriters Halley Neal and Sam Robbins will kick off the 2023-2024 season of the monthly Hard Luck Café series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington in the Cinema’s Sky Room on from 7 to 10 p.m. An open mic, for which sign-up is at 6:30 p.m., precedes the concert. Admission is $20, $15 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org
Cruise Night at The Shoppes
Cruise Nights are back at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River from 5 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday through Oct. 25. Check out the fine array of classic and coveted automobiles from car enthusiasts from across Long Island in The Shoppes parking lot. 631-929-3500
Thursday Sept. 21
Harbor Jazz Festival
See Sept. 20 listing.
Film
‘Rather’
The Port Jefferson Documentary Series Fall 2023 season opens with a screening ofRather at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson on Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. Frank Marshall’s incisive documentary is a long-overdue tribute to an icon of journalism, a late-in-life Twitter superstar, a father, husband, and a voice of reason, compassion, and brilliance: Dan Rather. Followed by a Q&A with guest speakers Taylor Wildenhaus andSarah Baxter. $10 (cash only) at the door or purchase in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.
Theater
‘The Prom’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kick off its 53rd season with The Prom from Sept. 16 to Oct. 21. As the lights dim on four fading Broadway stars, they wildly seek the spotlight. Courting the controversy surrounding a small-town Indiana prom, the quartet invades a community that wants to keep the party straight. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors, $20 students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Rent’
Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Jonathan Larson’s Rent from Sept. 16 to Oct. 22. Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, the groundbreaking musicalfollows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians — Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, Benny and Mark — struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Every Brilliant Thing’
Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, in association with Response Crisis Center, presents Every Brilliant Thing, a one-man show starring Jeffrey Sanzel, on the Second Stage from Sept. 17 to Oct. 8.With audience members recruited to take on supporting roles, Every Brilliant Thing is a heart-wrenching, hilarious story of depression and the lengths we will go for those we love. All seats are $20. Fifty percent of the gross proceeds of this production will benefit Response Crisis Center. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Beautiful’
Main stage theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical from Sept. 14 to Oct. 29. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing success with Tapestry, the showtakes you back to where it all began–and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” and many more. This Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning show is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget. Tickets range from $85 to $90. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Antigone Now: A Short Drama’
The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Antigone Now: A Short Drama by Melissa Cooper in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. In the midst of a bombed-out city still feeling the aftershocks of war, the rebellious and intense Antigone defies her uncle to bury her disgraced brother. This contemporary response to the myth of Antigone brings powerful, modern prose to an ancient and universal story. *Mature ContentGeneral admission: $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. For tickets call 631-451-4163.
Class Reunions
•Save the date! Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].
United States defense and intelligence leaders agree that climate change is a threat to U.S. national security and is affecting global stability, military readiness, humanitarian crises, and the risk of war.
Scott Mandia. Photo by Victoria Sinacori
As part of Suffolk County Community College’s Faculty Talks series, nationally recognized climate change authority and twice featured National Geographic documentary expert, Suffolk County Community College Professor of Physical Sciences Scott Mandia will speak about Climate Change & National Security Implications on Monday, September 18 at Suffolk County Community College, Kreiling Hall Room 203, 533 College Road, Selden at 11:15 a.m. (Parking lot by water tower)
Mandia, the founder of the Climate Science Rapid Response Team that matches journalists with scientists to enable the media to better explain climate change and meteorological phenomenon will cover a range of topics including:
Evidence of a warming planet
Scientific evidence of the human cause
Who’s emitting the most greenhouse gases?
Who’s impacted the most? The poorest among us.
Super Storm Sandy
The World’s regions most impacted by climate change and implications
Solutions and taking action
Mandia has been called upon by The White House to present research about the impact of large-scale climate change on severe thunderstorms and tornadoes after a EF5 multiple-vortex tornado struck Joplin, Missouri on May 22, 2011. The tornado killed 158, injured 1,150 and caused $2.8 billion in damages – the costliest single tornado in US history. In addition to climate change, Mandia has written about Long Island hurricanes including the New England Hurricane of 1938, known locally as the “Long Island Express” and the future vulnerability of Long Island to hurricanes. He co-authored a book with Hunt Janin titled: Rising Sea Levels that was released before Hurricane Sandy hit Long Island and warned about the devastating effects of such a storm on New York.
The Sand Tiger Shark, shown here in the NY Aquarium, is a common species that lives and feeds in coastal New York area waters.
Credit: Julie Larsen, Wildlife Conservation Society
Scientists call for more research and key steps to gathering evidence around human-shark interactions, perspective published in Journal of Fish Biology
The lack of evidence about shark biology, their prey, and changes in the ecosystems of New York area coastal waters is a driving force to expand research about sharks and their populations in the region, so say a team of scientists in an article published in the Journal of Fish Biology.
As the 2023 summer season wraps up and marine biologists look to a new season and coming summers, the perspective piece challenges an emerging view that there is a growing number of human-shark interactions in the New York Bight (a triangular coastal region encompassing ocean and bay waters from New Jersey to the NYC metro area and Long Island) – all this because of growing shark populations and their feeding habits.
Lead author Oliver N. Shipley, PhD, a Research Assistant Professor in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS) at Stony Brook University, and colleagues describe the current knowledge of shark biology in the region and detail the misalignment between scientific knowledge and anecdotal information reported in recent years in the media about sharks in the region. They provide several critical areas for future research that they hope will promote positive attitudes of sharks and their conservation and help mitigate future human-shark conflicts.
“Shark populations are poorly studied in the New York Bight. When human-shark interactions occur, this paucity of scientific data has resulted in inaccurate messages from some mainstream media trying to assign causality to these incidents,” says Shipley. “We are calling for steps to be taken to advance scientific knowledge in order to better understand shark populations and why human-shark interactions may be occurring.”
According to the authors, population declines of sharks and their relatives have been well documented over the last several decades, globally, primarily because of targeting fishing and bycatch from commercial and recreational fisheries. Yet in the temperate waters of the New York Bight, sharks have received heighted attention due to a reported increase in their activity close to the shore. And the complex relationship between sharks and humans has been further ignited by a recent spike in human-shark interactions along the coastal New York Bight.
The authors write: “Although we acknowledge both sightings of sharks and reporting of negative human-shark interactions has increased in recent years, assigning any immediate causality would be irresponsible and risky to both sharks and human stakeholders in the absence of scientific support.”
To counter the easily perceived immediate causality to the human-shark encounters, Shipley and colleagues recommend that going forward the following research avenues are necessary to gather evidence about shark populations in the region:
There needs to be an expansion of coastwide monitoring programs in the context of climate change. They suggest shark monitoring methods can include multiple approaches, such as coastal drone surveys, environmental DNA assessments, and robust spatial analyses that quantify interactions between climate and sharks, and their prey across time.
Michael Frisk, PhD, a Professor at SoMAS and senior author on the paper, explains that such surveys would lead to novel long-term data that can be used to assess the distribution of sharks in response to prey movements and environmental conditions. It would also help to better understand the environmental conditions that increase the potential overlap between sharks and humans, and therefore help to gauge the possibilities of such encounters and potentially reduce or prevent them.
At SoMAS, several research groups are undertaking research that examines so-called “hotspots” of shark-prey interactions along southern Long Island, and where these may be impacted by warming ocean conditions.
Shipley says he and fellow researchers intend to begin systematic drone surveys at several pilot beaches to support townships and state shark monitoring initiatives, in hopes of providing new data on the probability of human-shark overlap and what conditions may drive such overlap.
Co-authors of the position paper include: Michael G. Frisk of SoMAS; Jill A. Olin of the Great Lakes Research Center, Michigan Technological University; Christopher Scott, Division of Marine Resources, New York Department of Environmental Conservation; and Merry Camhi, of the New York Seascape Program at the New York Aquarium and Wildlife Conservation Society.
A scene from a previous Port Jefferson Dragon Boat Race Festival. Photo by Kyle Barr
A scene from a previous festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from last year’s Port Jefferson Dragon Boat Race Festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from a previous festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from a previous festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from last year’s Port Jefferson Dragon Boat Race Festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from last year’s Port Jefferson Dragon Boat Race Festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from a previous festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from a previous festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
A scene from a previous festival. Photo courtesy of PJCC
By Julianne Mosher
These dragons won’t need any slaying and will not be spitting fire. In fact, this might actually bring some good luck.
The 9th annual Dragon Boat Race Festival is heading back to Port Jefferson on Saturday, Sept. 16 and it will have something for everyone.
Sponsored by The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, this event is a way to foster community togetherness. It also serves to promote Asian and Asian American culture and customs while connecting with students at Stony Brook University.
Kicking off with a race in the Long Island Sound, it coincides with a full festival filled with fun, food and friends.
Barbara Ransome, the chamber’s director of operations, said that every year this particular festival brings in hundreds of people from across Long Island and even New York City.
“There’s nothing else like this around,” she said, “And we’re the only festival doing this in Suffolk County.”
Just a few miles away from Stony Brook University, which has a large Asian and Pan-Asian community, Ransome said the festival not only brings new people to the village every year, but also parts of these cultures that local residents might have not seen before.
“Not only is this festival entertaining,” Ransome said, “But it’s also educational and that’s a wonderful thing.”
This year, 21 teams are signed up — including two from the university and a group from Flushing, Queens. Each boat has about 22 people in it as they race for the win.
But it isn’t just a race for visitors to watch and cheer on. There are dance troupes, Japanese percussionists, singers and martial artists, plus retailers, cultural vendors and food trucks.
And you can’t forget the Bearded Dragon who will dance for the crowd — but don’t worry… it isn’t scary.
For centuries, the bearded dragon has had a significant impact on different cultures around the world. Specifically in Eastern cultures, including Chinese mythology, the dragon symbolizes power, strength and good luck. Similarly, in Japan, bearded dragons are associated with longevity and wisdom, as they are said to possess secret knowledge.
Other fun activities for kids will include face painting, origami, crafts and reptile visitors from the Center for Environmental and Educational Discovery.
“This is a way to embrace diversity within our own backyard,” Ransome said. “It offers different things that you might have never seen before.”
The Port Jefferson Dragon Boat Race Festival will kick off its opening ceremonies on Saturday, Sept. 16 at 8:30 a.m. with a performance by the Asian Veterans Color Guard, singing of the national anthem by Samantha Reichers, a Blessing of the Dragon and the traditional “Eye Dotting” ceremony to awaken the dragon at Port Jefferson Harbor and Harborfront Park, located at 101A East Broadway. The race will begin at 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and will run alongside the entertainment schedule (see left hand page).
The event will be held rain or shine. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and come enjoy the festivities! For more information, call 631-473-1414 or visit www.portjeffdragonracefest.com
Schedule of Events:
7:45 a.m.
Team Captains Meeting at Harborfront Park
8:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies with Master of Ceremonies Suzanne Velazquez, Asian Veterans Color Guard, singing of the National Anthem by Samantha Reichers, and Blessing of the Dragon and‘Eye Dotting’ ceremony with Theravada Monks from the Vajiradhammapadip Buddhist Temple in Centereach
8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Food Vendors, Cultural Crafts, Children Activities, Retail/Educational/Nonprofit Vendor Tables
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Continual Dragon Boat Races in Port Jefferson’s Inner Harbor
9:45 a.m.
Rebel Thaiboxing demonstration
10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m
The Sound of Long Island Chorus, Americana program and traditional Chinese songs
10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Yixin Dance Center
11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Long Island Chinese Dance Group performance
12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Lunch Break (no racing)
12;30 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Taiko Tides Drumming and Oroshi Drumming contest
1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Parade of the Team T-shirts Contest, Best Drummer Costume Contest
1:30 p.m.
Races resume
1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Authentic Shaolin Kung Fu Lion Dance , Kung Fu& Tai Chi demonstrations
2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Port Jefferson High School Music Group, Harbor Country Day School
2:45 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Rebel Thaiboxing Demonstration
3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Stony Brook Youth Chorus
3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Yana Dance Group – Chinese Traditional Dance
4 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Galante Martial Arts demonstrating Tai Chi, Arnis (Filipino Martial Arts) and Jiu Jitsu
Welcome to the 21st edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home!
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents A Kooky Spooky Halloween, a merry musical about a ghost who’s afraid of the dark, from Oct. 7 to 21 with a sensory sensitive performance on Oct. 8. Recently graduated spirit Abner Perkins is assigned to the Aberdeen Boarding House — known for its spectral sightings and terrific toast. Here, Abner finds himself cast into a company of its wacky residents. When his secret is revealed, he is forced to leave his haunted home and set-off on a quest with his newly found friends and his best friend Lavinda the witch. All tickets are $12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
7:45 a.m. 
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