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A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin
A scene from a campus-wide Barbie-fest at Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack on July 21. Photo courtesy of Gurwin

Residents and staff of Gurwin Healthcare System in Commack caught “Barbie Fever” days before the release of the new Barbie movie on July 21 with a campus-wide “Barbie-fest” featuring all-pink days of relaxation, fun and resident makeovers at the System’s Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Gurwin Adult Day Care Program, Gurwin Jewish Fay J. Lindner Residences Assisted Living and Fountaingate Gardens independent living community, on Tuesday, July 18 and Wednesday, July 19. 

 “Many of our residents remember Barbie’s introduction in the late 1950s and the excitement of getting a brand new doll, or their children grew up with Barbie and they played with the dolls together,” said Nicole Hopper, Director of Therapeutic Recreation at Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. “It really brings back wonderful memories to a simpler time when they could be children themselves.”

The Barbie celebration took place at “Barbie’s Dream Salon,” created by Gurwin staff, dripping in Barbie’s signature Pantone 219 C “Barbie pink” hues. It was there where Gurwin residents had the opportunity to get “Barbiefied,” with manicures, makeup and hot pink hair extensions, all while sipping on Barbie mocktails. Other Barbie-themed activities included paint-your-own Barbie canvas and a Barbie photo booth for social media posting.  The celebration extended to Gurwin’s Adult Day Care Programs, where program participants created bedazzled berets for an afternoon “Barbie in Paris” fashion show.

In Gurwin’s senior living communities, staff at Gurwin’s Fay J. Lindner Residences created a Barbie salon and Malibu beach-themed celebration; residents played beach volleyball, posed for Barbie and Ken photos, and created Barbie crafts while enjoying an array of pink-colored delicacies.  And, at Fountaingate Gardens independent living community, staff hosted a Barbie pink lemonade and prosecco social with a viewing of the Barbie documentary.

Gurwin staff got in on the BarbieMania, dressing in their best Barbie and Ken-inspired fashions, and posing for photos with residents!

“My daughter had a Barbie collection and it made me feel good when she took care of the dolls as if they were her children,” said Marie Olivia, a 92 year-old-resident of Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. “She had a lot of dolls and we constantly had to wash each of their clothes, press them, then dress them. She was so particular about her dolls that when her friends would come over, they were not allowed to leave until the Barbie’s were put back in their box and safely away.”

“It was truly a remarkable campus-wide celebration for our residents, as well as our staff and visitors,” said Stuart B. Almer, President and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System. “Our amazing team pulled out all the stops to bring the Barbie pop culture phenomenon event to life at Gurwin for our residents to experience and enjoy.”

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File photo by Alex Petrosk

The Long Island Seaport and Eco Center (LISEC) seeks boat building/race teams for its annual Sikaflex Quick & Dirty Boat Build Competition, sponsored by the Sika Corporation, to be held at Harborfront Park, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson on Aug. 19 and 20.

Now in its 12th year, the event provides would-be boat designers and builders to have a weekend of fun and  showcase their creative skills and talents. Using only a provided supply of plywood, plastic cable ties, and Sikaflex/sealant, two member teams must build, paint and then paddle their design around the village dock in Port Jefferson Harbor located just offshore of Harborfront Park.

Up to 12  2-person  teams will construct a boat in five hours on Saturday and return on Sunday to decorate their boats and prepare to race them at 3 p.m. Trophies will be awarded after the races for design, decoration, first built and race winners. Are you up for the challenge? Download an application at www.lisec.org. For more information, call Len at 631-689-8293 or email [email protected]. 

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Yvonnick Prené

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook welcomes a unique artist and instrument to the performance space on Friday, August 28 at 7 p.m. when Yvonnick Prené, the harmonica ambassador, performs with his quartet. He will take the stage along with Dayna Stephens on tenor sax; Greg Lewis “Organ Monk” on b3 organ; and Aaron Seeber on drums.

Prené has fast become one of the rising stars in the harmonica world. He has performed with top Jazz artists including Kevin Hays, Pasquale Grasso, Bill Stewart, Rich Perry, Jon Cowherd and Peter Bernstein among many others. Prené is an ambassador of Hohner chromatic harmonicas.

Prené was already playing the harmonica at the age of 17, in Parisian club scenes. He later earned a master’s degree in music at the Sorbonne University in Paris, at 22 and while still enrolled, he moved to New York City to receive multiple full-tuition scholarships at the City College of New York, Columbia University and at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music.

To hear the harmonica magic, see: https://youtu.be/h4yVf6FYPqI

Visit  https://www.thejazzloft.org/tickets for tickets.

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JIMINY CRICKETS! Catch a screening of 'Pinocchio' at the Cinema Arts Center on July 30.
PROGRAMS

Magic of Reading Magic Show

Village of Port Jefferson will host a Magic of Reading Magic Show on the Performance Stage at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson on July 27 at 6 p.m. Bring seating. Free. 631-473-4724

Colonies of Coral

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St. Cold Spring Harbor continues Friday Summer Fun Workshops with Colonies of Coral on July 28 at noon and again at 2 p.m. Discover what makes corals the ultimate teammates in nature! Explore how these tiny creatures cooperate together to build incredible structures that hundreds of sea animals call home. See coral from the Museum’s collection, and craft a beautiful coral creation of your own. No registration needed!​ Best for ages 6 and up. Admission fee + $10. 631-367-3418.

Growing Up Wild

Town of Brookhaven offers a summer program, Growing Up Wild, for ages 3 to 6 at Cedar Beach Nature Center, Harbor Road, Mt. Sinai on July 29 at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. Parents are invited to explore nature with their little ones through story time, live animals and an activity or craft. Free. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].

BNL Summer Sundays

Explore Brookhaven National Laboratory, 98 Rochester St., Upton on July 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Meet with scientists, visit world-class research facilities, enjoy live science shows, hands-on activities and more at the Lab’s Summer Sundays open house tours. Free. For a full schedule of events, visit www.bnl.gov.

Kids Crafts at the Park

Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket continues its 2023 Family Summer Program series on Aug. 1 from 11 a.m. to noon. Children can make a fun craft with Julie. Meet at Hap’s Red Barn. Free. 631-689-6146

Ice Ice Baby

Holtsville Ecology Site & Animal Preserve, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville presents a summer workshop for children entering 2nd grade to 6th grade titled Ice Ice Baby on Aug. 3 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Meet and learn about our cold-blooded friends including snakes, lizards and turtles. $10 per child. To register, call 631-451-5330.

Summer Drop-In Workshop

Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington hosts a Summer Drop-In Workshop for kids ages 5 to 10 on Aug. 3 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Create fun works of art in a variety of materials inspired by artwork in the Museum’s Collection and exhibitions. Program will be held both in the Museum and in Heckscher Park. Fee is $10 per child payable at the door. Parents are free. 631-380-3230

DIDI Maxx Dance Party

Do your children love to dance? Village of Port Jefferson will host a Dance Party with DIDI Maxx on the Performance Stage at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson on Aug. 3 at 6 p.m. Bring seating. Free. 631-473-4724

Harry Potter Scavenger Hunt

If you solemnly swear you are up to no good, three museums in Huntington invite wizards and muggles to celebrate Harry Potter’s July 31 birthday week!

Walt Whitman Birthplace: From July 27 to 30, find Quidditch brooms, the Mirror of Erised, earn Walt Whit’s Beans, and try a sorting hat. Bring in a Potter-themed poem for display! Children 15 and under free with adult admission.

The Whaling Museum & Education Center: From July 25 to Aug. 5 (closed Mondays), see the largest cauldron in Huntington! Search for Potter-themed haunted items & potion bottles. Decorate an owl mask. Free with admission to the museum. 

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum: From Aug 1 to 4, visit for a special scavenger hunt called “Mr. Vanderbilt’s Fantastic Creatures & How to Find Them!” Free with admission to the museum. 

FILM

‘Pinocchio’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Disney’s Pinocchio on July 30 at noon. Geppetto’s beloved puppet, Pinocchio, longs to become a real boy. With Jiminy Cricket as his guide, he embarks on a thrilling adventure. Pinocchio must be brave. loyal, and honest to make his greatest wish come true. Known for its groundbreaking achievements in animation and Academy Award-winning music, Pinocchio is one of the most influential animated films of all time. Rated G. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’

The 6th annual Farmingville Flicks outdoor movie series returns to Local Church, 1070 Portion Road, Farmingville with Space Jam: A New Legacy on July 31, courtesy of the Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce and Sachem Public Library. All movies begin at dusk. Free. 631-317-1738

THEATER

‘Seussical Jr.’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center presents an outdoor production of Seussical Jr. on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown from July 8 to Aug. 17. Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, JoJo, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie La Bird and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in this fantastical musical extravaganza. Tickets are $18.50 per person. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Goldilocks & The Show Biz Bears’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Goldilocks & The Show Biz Bears from July 7 to July 29. Join them for a delightful re-telling of the famous story as Goldilocks, a Campfire Bluebird Pioneer Scout Girl, joins up with the three nicest show-biz bears you’d ever hope to meet. Along with Granny Locks and Wolf Hunter, Forest Ranger, the crew foil the villainous plans of Billy de Goat Gruff. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Cinderella’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Cinderella, the beloved tale of a young girl’s magical night at the Royal Ball where she meets and briefly loses her true Prince Charming, from July 22 to Aug. 27. Only his quest to find the perfect fit for the glass slipper left behind will reunite them. But will they live happily ever after? All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Disney’s ‘High School Musical Jr.’

Sachem High School East, 177 Granny Road Farmingville hosts a production of Disney’s High School Musical Jr. performed by their Summer 2023 Triple Threat students on Aug. 4 and 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 at www.potr.org.

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OH WHAT A NIGHT! Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons tribute band Oh What A Night! heads to Theatre Three on July 28.
Ongoing

Huntington Summer Arts Festival

Heckscher Park’s Chapin Rainbow Stage, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington hosts the Huntington Arts Council’s 58th annual Summer Arts Festival with music, theater and dance Wednesdays through Sundays from July 1 to 30. Free. Bring seating. For the full schedule, visit www.huntingtonarts.org. 631-271-8423

Thursday July 27

Terryville Carnival

Terryville Fire Department, 19 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station invites the community to its annual family carnival tonight and July 28 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., July 29 from 5 p.m. to midnight, and July 30 from 5 to 10 p.m. Enjoy rides, games and carnival food. $25 entry fee includes all rides. Fireworks on July 28. 631-473-1224

Music Behind the Barn

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead hosts a free outdoor concert featuring Black and Sparrow at the historic Naugles Barn from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy the music and the beautiful North Fork sunset over the farm fields. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics, blankets, and chairs to set out on the field. No registration required. 631-298-5292

Native American Drumming

All Souls Parish House 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming from 7 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. 631-655-7798

Dennis Cannataro Concert Series

The Dennis Cannataro Family Summer Concert Series returns to the Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown with a concert by Penny Lane tonight at 7:30 p.m.; preshow at 7 p.m. Bring seating. 631-360-2480 ext. 150

Northport Community Band

The Northport Community Band will host a concert at the Robert W. Krueger Bandshell in Northport Village Park tonight starting at 8:30 p.m. Bring seating. Rain location is Northport High School. www.ncb59.org

Friday July 28

Terryville Carnival

See July 27 listing.

Hoops for Hope Fundraiser

Hope House Ministries will host the 7th Annual Jake Engel Hoops for Hope Fundraiser at Cedar Beach Basketball Court, 244 Harbor Beach Road in Mt. Sinai from 4 to 8 p.m. with a 3v3 Basketball Tournament, food, music, basket prizes and raffles. All are welcome to enjoy a fun, exciting night. All proceeds to benefit Hope House Ministries. To register for the 3v3 tournament or for more information please call 631-473-8796 or email at [email protected]. 

Happenings on Main Street

Northport Arts Coalition continues its Happenings on Main Street series, free concerts at the Northport Village Park Gazebo at the harbor with a performance by The Wood Vibrations tonight at 7 p.m.. Bring seating. 631-261-1872, www.northportarts.org

Musical Moments

Musical Moments in Kings Park returns to Russ Savatt Park, 14 Main St., Kings Park tonight from 7:30 to 9 p.m. with Beyond Fab; Aug. 11 with Eagle River Band; and Aug. 25 with Urban Rodeo, courtesy of the Kings Park Civic Association. Bring seating. 516-319-0672

Chamber Music Concert

Join the Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket for a Long Island Chamber Music String Quartet concert at 7:30 p.m. Featuring Gergana Haralampieva on violin, Heejeon Ahn on violin, Matthew Cohen on viola, and Madeline Fayette on cello. Program will include music by Franz Schubert, Maurice Ravel, Cécile Chaminade, Shelley Washington, and Corrado Maria Saglietti. Free/$20 suggested donation. 631-747-7655

Poets in Port

Northport Arts Coaltion continues its Poets in Port series at the First Presbyterian Church, 330 Main St., Northport at 7:30 p.m. featured poet will be Dan  Kerr followed by an open reading. Free. www.northportarts.org.

Owl Prowl Friday

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown hosts an Owl Prowl from 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the Center’s resident owls. Then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight just in case. Open to families with children ages 5 and up. $15 per person at www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Frankie Vallie Tribute

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its summer concert series with Oh What a Night! a tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons at 8 p.m. “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “My Eyes Adored You,” “Working My Way Back To You,” “Let’s Hang On,” and  “Who Loves You” are just some of the many hits you’ll enjoy from the dynamic songbook of those boys from Jersey. All seats are $59. 631-928-9100, www.theatrethree.com.

Travel Back to the 80s Experience

Join the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown for a Travel Back To The 80s Experience tonight and July 22 at 8 p.m. Immerse yourself in the fun, the fashion, and the sounds of the 80s! Meet familiar characters and personalities while being thrown back in time to a story straight out of the 80s, all set to the tunes you know and love. Arrive dressed up to enjoy yourself to the max! Featuring a live performance by Guilty Pleasures. All ages are welcome. Tickets are $35 (each ticket includes one drink from the bar). Call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org to order.

Saturday July 29

Terryville Carnival

See July 27 listing.

Sherwood-Jayne House Tour

Preservation Long Island will host tours of the Sherwood-Jayne House (c. 1730), 55 Old Post Road, Setauket at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. with a self-guided tour at noon. The house contains period furnishings and features original late eighteenth-century hand-painted floral wall frescoes. Tickets are $10, $5 children ages 6 to 15, under age 6 free at www.preservationlongisland.org/tours. 

Port Palooza

The Village of Port Jefferson and The Port Jefferson Harbor Education and Arts Conservancy present the 3rd annual Port Palooza mini music festival on three stages: Harborfront Park, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, Eagle Statue Stage in the Frigate parking lot and Port Jeff Brewery from noon to dusk. Featured artists include ZIGS, The Accidentals/PJ All Stars, Cole Fortier Band, Annie Trezza, South Bay Soul and the Keenan Zach Trio. Free. Bring seating. www.portpalooza.com

Carriage Highlight Tour

The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook offers docent-led tours of its state-of-the-art Carriage Museum today from 1 to 3 p.m. Visit eight galleries and learn about the world before cars through conversation, photographs and artifacts. All ages welcome. Free with paid admission to the museum. 631-751-0066

Pop-Up Saturday event

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization continues its 2023 Pop-Up Saturdays series with a visit by Hope for Cleo Animal Rescue in the Stony Brook Village Center’s Inner Court, 97 Main St., Stony Brook from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Free. 631-751-2244

Steeple Showcase Concert

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, UCC, 233 North Country Road, Mount Sinai continues its Steeple Showcase Concert Series with Cactus & the Kia Acoustic duo, playing folk, rock classics from 4 to 6 p.m. Bring a chair, a snack and sit back and relax! Concert is in the church parking lot, inside if it is raining. 631-473-1582

300 Lights Pops Concert – This event has been moved to July 30.

In celebration of its 300th anniversary, Caroline Episcopal Church, 1 Dyke Road, Setauket invites the community to a free 300 Lights Pops Concert featuring the Sound Symphony Orchestra on the Setauket Village Green at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Maestro Dorothy Savitch, the program will include works by Mozart, Gershwin, Puccini, Verdi, highlights from Grease and Wicked, and an Armed Forces Salute. Bring seating. 631-941-4245

Four by Four in concert

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents a concert by Four By Four: a musical tribute to The Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Bee Gees & Motown at 8 p.m. A Tribute to The Music of The Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Bee Gees & Motown. A stellar cast presents the legendary hits of four of the most iconic musical styles in pop music history. All seats are $59. 631-928-9100, www.theatrethree.com

Sunday July 30

Terryville Carnival

See July 27 listing.

Wind Down Sundays

The popular summer concert series continues at Hap’s historic Red Barn at Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket with the Tom Manuel Sextet at 5:30 p.m. Bring seating. 631-689-6146, www.frankmelvillepark.org

Celebrate Park Concert

Celebrate St. James continues its summer concert series at Celebrate Park, 369 Lake Ave., St. James with music by Fat Nicky & The Snacks Band from 6 to 9 p.m. Free. Bring seating. 631-984-0201

Summer Concert on the Green

Summer concerts are back in front of the Stony Brook Post Office at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main Street, Stony Brook from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Sunday through Aug. 20, courtesy of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization. Tonight’s concert features The Rustlers. Free. Bring seating. 631-751-2244, www.wmho.org

300 Lights Pops Concert – See July 29 listing.

Monday July 31

Harborside Concert

Rescheduled from July 13. The Village of Port Jefferson continues its annual Harborside concerts at the Show Mobile at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson on Thursdays at 7 p.m. with a performance by the Bangos. Bring seating. 631-473-4724

Tuesday August 1

NSJC Social Club event

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

Ridge National Night Out

Join the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office for its annual National Night Out event at Fireman’s Memorial Park, 725 Middle Country Road, Ridge from 5 to 8 pm. The family friendly event will feature Sheriff’s Office vehicle displays, Operation Safe Child ID cards, bingo games with prizes, fun and games, fire department demos, ice cream and BBQ, softball and tug of war games, and much more. 

Centereach National Night Out

Brookhaven Town Councilman Neil Manzella, Town Clerk Kevin LaValle the SCPD 6th Precinct and the Middle Country Public Library invite the community to a National Night Out at the Centereach Pool,   286 Hawkins Road, Centereach at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy music, food, games, raffles, touch-a-truck and swimming for free! 631-451-6133

Concerts at The Gazebo 

Enjoy Tuesday night concerts at The Gazebo, 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset  through Aug. 15, courtesy of the Nesconset Chamber of Commerce. Tonight’s concert will feature Radio Flashback at 7 p.m. Rain dates are the next day. Bring seating. 631-672-5197, www.nesconsetchamber.org

Smithtown Community Band

The Smithtown Historical Society hosts the 37th annual Smithtown Community Band concert series, By Land, Sea, & Sky, on the grounds of the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown tonight at 8 p.m. Bring seating. 631-275-0443

Wednesday August 2

East Northport Fire Dept.  Fair

The East Northport Fire Department, 1 9th Ave., East Northport will host its annual Fair today through Aug. 5 from 7 to 11 p.m. with carnival rides, games of chance and skill, live music, large selection of food and more. Free admission. POP ride bracelets. 631-261-0360, ext. 110

Summerfest Concert

The Northport Chamber of Commerce kicks off its Summerfest Concerts on Wednesdays in August at the Robert Krueger Bandshell in Northport Village Park with the Beatles tribute band Liverpool Shuffle from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Bring seating. 631-754-3905

Sunset Concerts

Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council continues its Sunset Concerts at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson from 6:30 to 8 p.m. with a performance by Roger Street Friedman. Held rain or shine. Bring seating. 631-473-5220, www.gpjac.org

Thursday August 3

East Northport Fire Dept.  Fair

See Aug. 2 listing.

Eco-Printing Workshop

Join the Huntington Historical Society for an Eco-Printing Workshop at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from 6 to 8:30 p.m. At this workshop, you will be making a scarf using an eco print of leaves and flowers. Fee is $55, $50 members. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org or call 631-427-7045.

Music Behind the Barn

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead hosts a free drum circle at the historic Naugles Barn at 6:30 p.m.  Join two experienced drum facilitators for a welcoming musical adventure for the whole family. Explore West African, Latin, and New Orleans Grooves on the drums with a twist that makes them accessible and easy to play for first-timers. Bring your own drum or use the ones provided. No registration required. 631-298-5292

Dennis Cannataro Concert Series

The Dennis Cannataro Family Summer Concert Series returns to the Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown with a concert by  Boardwalk Nights (Jersey Shore tribute) tonight at 7:30 p.m. with a preshow at 7 p.m. Bring seating. 631-360-2480 ext. 150

Author Talk at CAC

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents A Conversation with Michael Schulman at 7:30 p.m. Join the author of Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears for a lively conversation about the Academy Awards, focusing on the brutal battles, the starry rivalries, and the colorful behind-the-scenes drama. Hosted by Sandra Brawarsky. Tickets are $25 for event only, $47 for event and copy of book. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Theater

‘The Tempest’

Join the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce for Shakespeare in the Park at the Chamber Train Car Park, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station with a performance of The Tempest by Northeast Stage on Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. Free. Bring seating. 631-821-1313, www.PJSTChamber.com

‘Macbeth’

The Carriage House Players continue their 34th annual Summer Shakespeare Festival in the mansion courtyard of the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport with Macbeth on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. from July 7 to Aug. 6. Tickets are $20, $15 children under 12 at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Escape to Margaritaville’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Escape to Margaritaville from July 13 to Aug. 27. This upbeat and energetic new musical features all your favorite Jimmy Buffett classics including “Volcano,” “Fins,”,“Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and of course “Margaritaville.” Tickets range from $80 to $85. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Laughter on the 23rd Floor’

Minstrel Players presents Neil Simon’s Laughter on the 23rd Floor at Trinity Episcopal Church’s Houghton Hall, 130 Main St., Northport on July 29 at 8 p.m. and July 30 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order call 516-361-7232.

‘Rent’

From Stage to Screen Performing Arts Academy presents four performances of Rent at Five Towns College, 305 North Service Road, Dix Hills from July 28 to July 30. Directed by Adam Pascal. Tickets range from $45 to $50. To order, visit https://fromstagetoscreen.ludus.com. 631-423-4440

Film

Stony Brook Film Festival

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host the 28th annual Stony Brook Film Festival from July 20 to July 28. Line-up includes 36 feature films and shorts from over 26 countries. Tickets are $15, $13.50 seniors at wwww.stonybrookfilmfestival.com. 631-632-2787

Movies on the Harbor

Village of Port Jefferson presents its Movies on the Harbor at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson Tuesdays at dusk with Dream Horse on Aug. 1; and In the Heights on Aug. 8. Rain date is the next evening. 631-473-4724

Class Reunions

•Port Jefferson High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion on the weekend of August 4-6. For information, email Lori Sternlicht Lucki @ [email protected] or call 631-495-8604.

•Ward Melville High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket on Sept. 9, 2023 from 6 to 11 p.m. For ticket information, contact Tibo Dioguardi at [email protected].

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METRO photo

By Michael Christodoulou

When you retire, you’ll experience many changes — should one of them involve your living arrangements?

The issue of downsizing is one that many retirees will consider. If you have children, and they’ve grown and left the home, you might find yourself with more space than you really need. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean you must pack up and scale down yourself. You might love your home and neighborhood and see no reason to go. But if you’re open to a change, you could find that moving to a smaller house, a condo or an apartment may make sense for you.

Let’s consider some of the advantages of downsizing:

You could save money. Moving to a smaller space could lower your utility bills and upkeep costs.

You could save effort. A smaller home will mean less maintenance and cleaning.

You could de-clutter. Over the years, most of us accumulate more possessions than we really need. Downsizing gives you a chance to de-clutter. And you can do some good along the way, too, because many charitable organizations will welcome some of your items.  

You could make money. If you’ve had your home for many years, it’s certainly possible that it’s worth more — perhaps a great deal more — than what you paid for it. So, when you sell it, you could pocket a lot of money — possibly without being taxed on the gains. 

Generally, if you’ve lived in your home for at least two years in the five-year period before you sold it, you can exclude $250,000 of capital gains, if you’re single, or $500,000 if you’re married and file taxes jointly. (You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor, though, before selling your home, to ensure you’re eligible for the exclusion, especially if you do own multiple homes. Issues can arise in connection with determining one’s “primary” residence.)

While downsizing does offer some potentially big benefits, it can also entail some drawbacks. First of all, it’s possible that your home might not be worth as much as you had hoped, which means you won’t clear as much money from the sale as you anticipated. Also, If you still were paying off a mortgage on your bigger home, you may have been deducting the interest payments on your taxes — a deduction that might be reduced or lost to you if you purchase a less-expensive condo or become a renter. 

Besides these financial factors, there’s the ordinary hassle of packing and moving. And if you’re going to a much smaller living space, you may not have much room for family members who want to visit or occasionally spend the night.

So, as you can see, you’ll need to weigh a variety of financial, practical and emotional issues when deciding whether to downsize. And you will also want to communicate your thoughts to grown children or other family members who may someday have reason to be involved in your living space. In short, it’s a big decision — so give it the attention it deserves. 

Michael Christodoulou, ChFC®, AAMS®, CRPC®, CRPS® is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Stony Brook. Member SIPC.

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Pictured from left, Hoyt, King Charles, and Chanticleer. Photos courtesy of Smithtown Animal Shelter

This week’s featured shelter pet trio are Hoyt, King Charles and Chanticleer, three roosters up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

The boom in chicken ownership the past few years has created a problem for the males.  Roosters are often a source of complaint for neighbors and prohibited in some areas. When an accidental boy is hatched, they often find themselves kicked out of the flock because placement for roosters is getting increasingly harder to find.

Hoyt, King Charles, and Chanticleer were all abandoned as strays to fend for themselves. Each is a young fellow, with Charles being the oldest at just over a year old. These boys were all found emaciated, dehydrated and weak. They are all now happy and healthy, but are lonely and looking for a flock of their own.

King Charles (formerly Prince Charles) is a handsome rooster who has been at the Animal Shelter for a year. He is docile and easygoing, and seeks out physical closeness with any animal he can find. Charles enjoys eating blueberries and tomatoes.

Chanticleer has been with at the shelter for a short time, and he has shown to be an active guy that is slow to trust people. He has yet to decide what his favorite treats are, though he seems to like tomatoes. Chanticleer can have a spicy attitude, but will learn to be better as he settles in.

Hoyt is the shelter’s newest addition and is proving to be docile and friendly with a love for corn and other animals. Hoyt has some weight to gain, but is making great progress.

All three of them enjoy crowing the day away. They’ve been through a lot in their short lives, and they need a safe and nurturing environment that will help them flourish.

If you would like to meet Hoyt, King Charles, or Chanticleer, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in a domestic setting.

The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

Please note: The Town of Smithtown Animal Shelter is not equipped to safely house animals other than dogs and cats long term. However, if an animal is in danger and needs housing temporarily until another rescue has room, they  will do their best to provide safe shelter while they can. While the animal waits for space to open in another rescue, it will be available for adoption through our Adoption Center.

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Pixabay photo
Increasing dietary fiber can make a big difference

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

We all have hemorrhoids. They’re vascular structures that help control our stool. When they become irritated and inflamed, we often say we “have hemorrhoids.” What we really mean is that our hemorrhoids are causing us pain.

Many of us have suffered at one time or another from hemorrhoid pain. They affect men and women equally, though women have a higher propensity during pregnancy and childbirth.

When our hemorrhoids are irritated, we may experience itchy and painful symptoms, making it hard to concentrate and uncomfortable to sit. This is because the veins in your rectum are swollen. They often bleed, especially during a bowel movement, which can be scary. Fortunately, hemorrhoids are not a harbinger of more serious disease.

There are two types of hemorrhoids: external, occurring outside the anus; and internal, occurring within the rectum.

Treating external hemorrhoids

Fortunately, external hemorrhoids tend to be mild. Most of the time, we can treat them with analgesic creams or suppositories that contain hydrocortisone, such as Preparation H. 

Another treatment option is a sitz bath.  All of these can help relieve the pain. Because we can treat them with over-the-counter solutions, external hemorrhoids generally do not require a doctor’s appointment.

For a more comprehensive solution, the most effective way to reduce this bleeding and pain is to increase your fiber intake with dietary changes and supplementation (1). 

Sometimes, however, there is thrombosis (clotting) of external hemorrhoids. In these cases, they may become more painful and require medical treatment.

If you have rectal bleeding and either have a high risk for colorectal cancer or are over the age of 50, you should consult your physician to confirm it is not due to a malignancy or other cause, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Treating internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids can be a bit more complicated. The primary symptom is bleeding with bowel movement, not pain, since the hemorrhoids are usually above the point of sensation in the colon, called the dentate line. If there is pain and discomfort, it’s generally because the internal hemorrhoids have prolapsed, or fallen out of place, due to weakening of the muscles and ligaments in the colon. This allows them to fall below the dentate line.

The first step for treating internal hemorrhoids is the same as for external hemorrhoids: add fiber through diet and supplementation. Study after study shows significant benefit. For instance, in a meta-analysis by the Cochrane Systems Data Review 2005, fiber reduced the occurrence of bleeding by 53 percent (2). In another study, after two weeks of fiber and another two-week follow-up, daily incidence of bleeding decreased dramatically (3).

What are the treatments for persistent hemorrhoid pain?

There are several minimally invasive options to address persistent and painful hemorrhoids, including banding, sclerotherapy and coagulation. The most effective of these is banding, with an approximate 80 percent success rate (4). This is usually an office-based procedure where rubber bands are placed at the neck of each hemorrhoid to cut off the blood flow. To avoid complications from constipation, patients should also take fiber supplementation. Side-effects of the procedure are usually mild, and there is very low risk of infection. However, severe pain may occur if misapplication occurs with the band below the dentate line. If this procedure fails, hemorrhoidectomy (surgery) would be the next option.

How do you prevent hemorrhoid problems?

First, sitting on the toilet for long periods of time puts significant pressure on the veins in the rectum, which can increase the risk of inflammation. Though you may want private time to read, the bathroom is not the library. As soon as you have finished moving your bowels, it is important to get off the toilet.

Get plenty of fluids. This helps soften the stool and prevent constipation. Exercise also helps prevent constipation. You should not hold in a bowel movement; go when the urge is there, or the stool can become hard, resulting in straining, constipation, and more time on the toilet.

How do I get more fiber?

Eating more fiber helps to create bulk for your bowel movements, avoiding constipation, diarrhea and undue straining.

Americans, on average, consume 16g per day of fiber (5). The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends daily fiber intake for those <50 years old of 25 to 38 grams, depending on gender and age (6). I typically recommend at least 40 grams. My wife and I try to eat only foods that contain a significant amount of fiber, and we consume approximately 65 grams a day.

You may want to raise your fiber level gradually; if you do it too rapidly, be forewarned – side-effects are potentially gas and bloating for the first week or two.

I generally recommend adjusting your diet before reverting to supplementation. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans and legumes all have significant amounts of fiber. Grains, beans and nuts have among the highest levels of fiber. For instance, one cup of black beans has 12g of fiber.

References:

(1) Dis Colon Rectum. Jul-Aug 1982;25(5):454-6. (2) Cochrane.org. (3) Hepatogastroenterology 1996;43(12):1504-7. (4) Dis Colon Rectum 2004 Aug;47(8):1364-70. (5) usda.gov. (6) Am J Lifestyle Med. 2017 Jan-Feb; 11(1): 80–85.

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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Stony Brook University: Entrance sign

Stony Brook University’s Educational Leadership program has received a $700K grant from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) for a multipronged initiative to address the shortage of diverse and well-prepared K-12 school leaders. The grant, Strengthening a Diverse Leadership Pipeline Through Leadership Preparation and Development, arose as a result of a collaboration among faculty from five downstate colleges and universities – Stony Brook, City College of New York, Fordham University, Hofstra University and St. John’s University.

The need for more diverse school leadership was detailed in New York State’s 2019 Educator Diversity Report, which published statistics showing that while most school and district leaders are white, the majority (56%) of the P-12 student population are not.

NYSED Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Representation is critical to providing an equitable, high-quality education, and learning from diverse education leaders provides real, relatable examples for young learners. The Department continues to work to strengthen accessible pathways for educators whose diversity reflects the rich culture of our students and communities.”

The NYSED grant will help leadership candidates from underrepresented groups pursue graduate preparation and will fund a slate of professional development programming for current school leaders at every level – from assistant principals to superintendents.

The initiative will offer “research-based solutions that diversify the available leadership pool while simultaneously developing capacity to promote continuous school improvement for all students,” said Margaret Orr, director of the EdD in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy program at Fordham University and one of the grant’s researchers.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. characterized the grant as “a unique and innovative approach to building a comprehensive leadership development model.” Key components of the initiative include:

  • Funding for qualified teachers to enroll in a graduate program that prepares them for leadership at the building and district levels.

  • Regionally-focused town hall meetings with local stakeholders to identify challenges related to recruiting and retaining diverse leaders.

  • Inquiry-based professional development programs for aspiring and current school leaders to strengthen their skills and improve their schools.

  • Research that involves school leaders and higher education faculty from programs across the state to better understand the challenges and successful strategies used in the field.

“Research and experience reveal that diverse leaders have significant benefits for schools, including defining and articulating a clear vision and mission, increasing recruitment and retention rates, curating positive school cultures and climates, elevating teachers’ voices, increasing family and community engagement, and most importantly enhancing student outcomes,” said Regent Chancellor Young.

For more information, visit https://www.stonybrook.edu/spd/edleadership/dei-grant/

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METRO photo

By Elissa Gargone

Elissa Gargone

Experts on aging agree. What’s most important for a long and healthy retirement is having a continuing sense of purpose and social engagement. 

Retirement gives people freedom from the constraints of the workplace, but it also changes what for many is a significant part of their social lives—being around others in a shared mission. No matter how young or old we are, it’s important to maintain and pursue friendships and activities. It’s this engagement that gives us a sense of purpose and growth.

As a retiree, you may want to move away from or closer to a city, seek warmer or colder weather, or relocate to be near your children or grandchildren. Many retirees downsize to an apartment or condo, freeing themselves from upkeep for a home and yard.  

Finding the right retirement lifestyle that will stimulate and reward you with a sense of purpose is about asking the right questions. That process starts with a thoughtful assessment of your individual needs and desires. While this exercise can present its challenges, it can be mighty stimulating to imagine a new phase of life that isn’t dictated by a workday. 

Planning is critical

The ideal time to begin this process is while you’re still working. It can take some time to figure out just where you’ll want to be, and what you’ll do there. Too many people approaching retirement fall into some version of a failure to plan, whether it’s having no plan, waiting too long to plan, or thinking that they don’t need a plan.

There are plenty of lifestyle choices out there. The more you learn about those options, the easier that decision will be.  You don’t want to be pressed to make a choice when you unexpectedly have a need.  

Understandably, while this hesitation may stem from denial or uncertainty about the future, one thing that is certain is that our needs will change over time, so it’s important to set to the task and make a plan. It’s not unlike starting a business—you’re setting yourself up for success.  

METRO photo

Questions to consider  

1. What do I want my future to look like?

2. What do I want to keep doing?

3. What don’t I want to do?

4. What can and can’t I do physically now?

5. What will I not be physically able to do down the road? 

6. What kinds of activities interest me?

7. Where do I want to be — near family, in my familiar community? City, country, suburbs?

8. What kind of people do I want to be with? 

9. What amenities would I like?

10. How much space do I really need?  

11.Will my finances comfortably cover my healthcare costs, should my health change?   

It’s critical to be realistic with your answers. For example, if you have physical issues now, it’s likely you’ll  be more challenged physically in ten years. You have to be honest about the existing barriers to things you want to do now, and strategize as to how you will manage these challenges later in life.  Then look around the house and ask; what is really important for me to keep, and what can I do without?  

Look for more than real estate

If you’re considering buying a retirement home, make sure to consider the services that come with it or are close by. These services will gain importance as time passes.  A 55-plus community that suits your lifestyle at age 60 or 65 may not be able to comfortably support you after age 75 or 80. You’ll want access to a range of people and activities, various transportation options, shopping, quality health services, and other support systems in place.

Options include: Life plan retirement communities like Jefferson’s Ferry, which enable residents to age in place with independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing services available on one site; assisted living facilities that help you manage the tasks of daily living in a community setting with apartments and shared or private rooms; independent living 55+ communities; condominiums, and shared space with family members.

Most of us need people around us to thrive. That’s not limited to those who’ll provide care, but others who will engage our interests as our friends and companions. Having more time to do the things you like, trying new things and enjoying the company of friends and family is the key to a long and happy life.   

Elissa Gargone is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Retirement Community in South Setauket.

This article originally appeared in Prime Times, TBR News Media’s senior supplement, on July 20.

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