From left, Isabella Colombo, Konstantine Rountos, and Mackenzie Minder with their research paper.
Photo from Konstantine Rountos
By Daniel Dunaief
Good news for shellfish eaters on Long Island.
According to a baseline study conducted by recent St. Joseph’s University graduates in the lab of Associate Professor Konstantine Rountos, oysters and hard clams have less microplastics than they do in other areas in the United States and the world.
Caused by the breakdown of larger plastic pieces, pellets used in plastics manufacturing and from micro beads that can be a part of cosmetics, microplastics are found throughout the world and can float around waterways for extended periods of time.
Konstantine Rountos
Filter feeders like clams and oysters, which play a key environmental role in cleaning local water, could accumulate microplastics. Researchers don’t yet know the potential harm to humans from consuming shellfish with microplastics.
“I was optimistic that the concentrations are lower than with shellfish in other countries and definitely in other areas of the United States, so that’s a positive for Long Island shellfish growers,” Rountos said. “It’s good for seafood lovers, too.”
To be sure, Rountos cautioned that more research was necessary to explore the concentrations of smaller microplastics to provide a more complete understanding of the accumulation of these particles. Nonetheless, he described this step in the study as “positive.”
In other areas of the country, previous studies revealed a higher concentration of microplastics in local shellfish. In the lower Chesapeake Bay, researchers found concentrations of 5.6 to 7 microplastics per gram of soft tissue in eastern oysters, while other scientists found concentrations of 0.56 to 2.02 microplastics per gram in soft tissue in oysters and 0.38 to 1.99 microplastics per gram of soft tissue weight in hard clams.
By contrast, Rountos, Mackenzie Minder, who is the first author on the paper, and Isabella Colombo discovered in their study of 48 oysters at four sites on Long Island was 1,000 times lower with eastern oysters. They also discovered no microplastics in hard clams at two sites around the island.
The lower numbers on Long Island may also be a product of the sieve size Rountos and his students used, which may not have captured smaller particles.
In a paper published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, Mackenzie, Colombo and Rountos suggested that one potential explanation for the difference in microplastics concentrations could arise from the potentially lower levels of microplastics in the surrounding water.
Other proposed studies are exploring the concentration of microplastics in local waterways.
Gordon Taylor, Professor and Division Head in Marine Sciences and Director of the NAno-Raman Molecular Imaging Laboratory, has two grant applications pending to sample Long Island waters, including the Long Island Sound, Peconics, Great South Bay and the New York Bight. His plan is to sample true microplastics in the water, through beach surveys and microplastics eaten by zooplankton.
Taylor will combine these observations with physical oceanography to model where these particles originate and where they are going.
Bringing research to the classroom
From left, Isabella Colombo and Mackenzie Minder with their research paper. Photo from Konstantine Rountos
For Minder and Colombo, both of whom are now teaching on Long Island, publishing their work offered a welcome and exciting conclusion to their college studies, while also giving them ways to inspire their students.
“This allows me to bring real life experience [in research] into the classroom,” said Minder. “It’s important to me to connect to children certain concepts of what they see in everyday life. Pollution could potentially impact our waterways to the point where it could be getting into our food supplies and could affect us physically and mentally.”
Minder said the study “opened my eyes to see how subconsciously we are putting plastics in the environment” through activities like washing synthetic fibers.
A fleece with synthetic fibers has “plastics that you wash and those fibers end up in the water,” Rountos said.
Some cosmetics such as exfoliators used to have microspheres that ended up in the water. Many cosmetic companies are now using bits of coconuts for grittiness.
Undergrad power
Rountos appreciated the reaction from Minder and Colombo, who earned degrees in adolescent biology education, when he suggested they could publish their research. He said his two former students “dove in head first” and the three had regular meetings to draft the manuscript and address reviewer’s revisions and recommendations.
Minder and Colombo are pleased with the paper “It’s shell shocking,” Minder said.
A resident of Hauppauge, Minder, whose hobbies include crocheting and reading, appreciates how her family has been showing copies of the paper to their friends and enjoys seeing the paper on refrigerators in her parents’ and grandmother’s homes.
A resident of Sayville, Colombo is serving as a building substitute for students who are 10 to 14 years old.
The research experience taught Colombo the value of communication, dedication and responsibility, which she has brought to the classroom. When she tells high school students about the publication, her students ask for signed copies of the paper.
“It’s such an honor and a privilege to be a part” of such a research effort, Colombo said.
Colombo’s family, who is proud of her for her work, is also relieved that she didn’t find the kind of contamination that might cause anxiety about the seafood they eat.
“Considering how many times I eat it for the holidays I was very concerned” about what they’d find, Colombo said.
Despite the trace amount of microplastics, Colombo and her family will continue to eat shellfish. She plans to hang the framed copy of the paper Rountos gave her in a future classroom.
Colombo decided to go into teaching after taking a living environment class with Sayville educator Cindy Giannico. She is grateful to Giannico for captivating “my desire to learn more and appreciate how applicable science is to your everyday life.”
Colombo has since come full circle and has been a student teacher in Giannico’s class. Giannico was thrilled to welcome Colombo, whom she recalled as “hard working” and “helpful” with other students even as a tenth grader, back to the classroom.
Colombo has since taken a job as a science teacher on Long Island. Giannico believes Colombo has forged a strong connection with her students through her caring and consideration and her willingness to work with them.
“Most people feel comfortable around her,” Giannico said. “She’s really mature.”
Colombo’s published work has sparked student interest in conducting their own research studies.
Rountos is proud of Minder and Colombo’s contribution. He described Colombo and Minder as “rare gem” students.
#12 Evan Giordano takes to the plate during Sunday's game. Photo from Stony Brook Athletics
The Stony Brook baseball team (6-11, 1-2 CAA) earned their first-ever Colonial Athletic Association victoryas the Seawolves defeated the College of Charleston Cougars (13-6, 4-2 CAA) 15-11 on March 19 at The Ballpark at Patriots Point in Charleston, S.C.
The Seawolves would fall behind to a 1-0 deficit in the first inning, but then the Stony Brook offense would send 10 batters to the plate in the top of the second inning, tallying seven singles in the inning and exploding for six runs to take an early 6-1 lead.
Junior Matt Brown-Eiring led the second inning off with the first of his two hits this afternoon, followed by a knock from junior Ryan Micheli to get two runners on base with no outs.
After a ground-out by Stony Brook, the squad would produce five RBI singles in a row to give themselves the lead. Sophomore Anthony Gentile, senior Derek Yalon, junior Evan Fox, sophomore Matt Miceli, and graduate Evan Giordano all tallied RBI base-hits in a row.
Stony Brook sent out graduate Nick DeGennaro to make his third start of the season. The right-hander kept the Cougars offense at ease, as he allowed three earned runs and struck out two batters over his 3.0 innings on the hill. Senior Brandon Lashley entered the game for DeGennaro in the fourth inning and allowed just two earned runs over his 4.0 innings out of relief.
With the Cougar offense starting to awaken, the Seawolves offense rose to occasion by scoring two runs in fourth, one run in the sixth, and erupted for four runs in the seventh inning. In the fourth, Fox led the frame off by doubling and then scored following senior Shane Paradine driving in the leadoff hitter on a double. Paradine didn’t wait long before Micheli drove him in on a single up the middle, giving Stony Brook an 8-3 lead.
Then, after an RBI knock by Paulsen in the sixth inning to put Stony Brook ahead 9-4, the squad would score four runs in the next frame. This time, it was the middle of the order doing the damage as Giordano drove in Fox on a triple to right field, and Paradine drove in Giordano by lasering a ball up the middle. A few batters later, Paulsen would cap the inning off by launching a two-RBI double to give Stony Brook a 13-4 advantage.
But, the Cougars didn’t go away without a fight, as Charleston scored a combined seven runs in the seventh and eighth inning to cut the deficit to two runs. The Seawolves would answer right back as Paulsen and Yalon each had RBI knocks to give Stony Brook two insurance runs and the 15-11 lead.
Freshman Eddie Smink closed the door on the Cougars after striking out the final two batters of the game to secure the 15-11 victory.
The team returns to Long Island on Tuesday, March 21, to take on LIU at 3 p.m. in Brooklyn.
Catch a screening of 'James and the Giant Peach' at the Cinema Arts Centre .on March 26
PROGRAMS
Egg Hunts at the Hatchery
Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will host egg hunts on March 25, 26, April 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8 in 20 minute sessions from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for children up to the age of 6 years old. Tickets are $12 per participating child, $5 “helper siblings” ages 7 to 12, $6 seniors, and $7 adults. To register, visit www.cshfishhatchery.org or call 516-692-6768.
Take a Bird to Lunch
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Tiny Tots program titled Take a Bird to Lunch on March 24 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.Children ages 3 to 5 and their parents will connect with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 269-4333.
Indigenous Crafternoons
Families with young children are invited to drop by the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for a special session of Crafternoons inspired by Native peoples of Long Island and beyond on March 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Make and decorate a game of sticks, try your hand at paper “wampum” weaving and more! Free with admission to the museum. Call 367-3418 for more information.
Open Play at the Explorium
Join the Long Island Explorium, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson for Open Play on March 25 and 26 from 1 to 5 p.m. with hands-on activities, crafts, and more. Admission is $5 per person, Long Island Explorium members and children under 1 are free. Call 331-3277.
Spring Festival and Egg Hunt
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown hosts its annual Spring Festival and Egg Hunt on March 26 from noon to 4 p.m. Join them for a day filled with games, animal presentations, crafts, face painting, and more. Egg hunts will be held throughout the day with prizes and a separate egg hunt for 2-4-year-olds to do with their parents. A special long-eared guest will be available for photo opportunities and refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring a basket. Tickets are $20 per child, $5 adults. To reserve your spot, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. Call 979-6344 for more info.
Books in the Barn
Registration is currently underway for the Smithtown Historical Society’s new Books in the Barn program for ages 3 to 5 with parent/caregiver on March 27 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Meet at the newly refurbished Franklin O. Arthur Farm, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown to listen to stories about farms, barns and animals. Then visit with the chickens, bunnies, sheep, ponies and barn cats that call the farm home. Free. Open to all. To register, visit www.smithlib.org/children. For more information, call 360-2480, ext. 140.
Free Planetarium show
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents a Thankful Thursday event on March 30 at 7 p.m. Enjoy a FREE family-friendly planetarium show, STARS: The Powerhouses of the Universe narrated by Mark Hamill, and then look through a telescope at the night sky (weather permitting). Register at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
THEATER
‘Finding Nemo Jr.
The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Finding Nemo Jr. from April 1 to 8. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” Finding Nemo Jr. brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure. All seats are $25. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Seussical the Musical’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Seussical the Musical from April 1 to 30. “Oh the Thinks You Can Think!” Dive into the colorful world of Dr. Seuss as The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who sets off to save a speck of dust containing The Whos from destruction. All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off spring with The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 5 to 29 with a sensory sensitive performance on April 16 at 11 a.m. Join Peter, Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-Tail, Mrs. Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny and the McGregors in this delightful adaption suggested by the characters created by Beatrix Potter, a Theatre Three tradition for spring break. All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
FILM
‘James and the Giant Peach’
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! Series with a screening of James and the Giant Peach on March 26 at noon. Based on the book by Roald Dahl. the children’s tale follows the adventures of James, an orphaned young British boy. Forced to live with his cruel aunts, James finds a way out of his bleak existence when he discovers an enormous enchanted peach. Rated PG. Tickets are $12, $5 children 12 and under. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
All phone numbers in (631) area code unless noted.
‘THE STANDARD OF THE WORLD’
Kick off spring with a Car Show and Swap Meet at Bald Hill in Farmingville on March 26 featuring custom cars like this 1950’s Cadillac to classic muscle cars. Photo by Phyllis Aquino/Long Island Cars
Thursday 23
Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival
Presented by Leg. Kara Hahn and The Jazz Loft founder Tom Manual, the Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival continues tonight, March 24 and 25 at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook and in local shops and restaurants, including Stony Brook Chocolate and The Country House. For the full schedule, visit www.thejazzloft.org.
Native American Drumming
Alls Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook will host a Native American Drumming Meditation workshop 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. Call 655-7798 for more information.
Celebrating David Crosby
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Rock Legends Live! series with David Crosby: A Celebration at 7:30 p.m. Come celebrate the life of legendary singer-songwriter David Crosby, featuring numerous rare performance clips. Tickets are $15, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Friday 24
Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival
See March 23 listing.
Vanderbilt Evening Birdwatch
Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport for an Evening Birdwatch and Architecture Tour with the Museum’s director of curatorial affairs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Participants will enjoy the unique opportunity to view the Vanderbilt estate at dusk, when the grounds are closed but the birds are active. Sturdy hiking footwear is strongly suggested, and participants are asked to bring their own binoculars. Walks will also be held on April 7 and 21, and May 5 and 19. Tickets are $12, free for members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Wintertide concert
The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson continuesitsWintertide concert series from 7 to 8 p.m with songwriter and guitarist Rupert Wates in the Sail Loft Room on the third floor. $5 donation at the door. Questions? Call 473-4778.
Battle of the Bands
Northport Centerport Lions Club presents the Battle of the Bands at the Huntington Moose Lodge, 631 Pulaski Rd, Greenlawn from 7 to 11 p.m. Raffles and snacks. Tickets are $30 per person. Proceeds to go to local charities including Smithtown Guide Dog Foundation. Questions? Call 516-380-6444.
Saturday 25
Swing Into Spring Jazz Festival
See March 23 listing.
Go for the Green Run
The Rotary Club of Smithtown presents the 28th annual St. Patrick’s ‘Go for the Green’ 5K run at 9:30 a.m. (1 mile family fun run at 9 a.m.) The race kicks off at Smithtown Elementary School, 51 Lawrence Ave., Smithtown. Register online at events.elitefeats.com/23gogreen. For additional information, call 516-458-5159.
Guided Beach Walks
Town of Brookhaven hosts a guided beach walk, See By the Sound, at West Meadow Beach, Trustees Road, Stony Brook at 10 a.m. and a guided beach walk at Cedar Beach Nature Center, Harbor Beach Road, Mount Sinai at 2 p.m. Look for shells, gulls and other shore birds. Bring binoculars if you have them. Free but registration is required by emailing [email protected].
Veterans Food Drive
Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society hosts a Give Back to Our Veterans Food Drive at the William Miller House, 75 North Country Road, Miller Place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Canned and paper products appreciated. Any person that donates can dedicate a rock to the Society’s Veteran’s Memorial Rock Garden. Stay and write a letter to a veteran to thank them for their service. For more information, visit www.mpmshistoricalsociety.org.
Model Train Show
The Smithtown Historical Society presents its annual Model Train Show in the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St. Smithtown from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Operating layouts on display include Long Island HOTracks — HO Scale and Frank Kabylarz — N Scale. Admission is $5 adults, $3 children under age 12. Proceeds from the event go towards maintenance of farm buildings and animal care on the property. For more information, call 265-6768.
Acoustic Afternoons at Mills Pond
Join local musicians for an afternoon open mic at the Mills Pond Gallery, 199 Mills Pond Road, St. James from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy the fine art exhibit, share your musical talents, sing along or just listen in a beautiful gallery space. Signup in person beginning at 1 p.m. Free to listen, $5 donation for performers. Call 862-6575 for more information.
Dreamcatcher Workshop
Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for a Dreamcatcher Workshop at 2 p.m. Discover the history behind the most enduring and widespread symbol of Native American culture, the dreamcatcher. Special guest and member of the Shinnecock and Hassanamisco Nations Denise Silva-Dennis “WeeTahMoe” willpresent this art and culture workshop on the iconic Lakota tradition. Create a traditional dreamcatcher of your own to take home. Admission fee + $10 participant.For adults and kids. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.
Silverpoint Art Workshop
The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suite #15, St. James presents a workshop titled The Magic of Drawing in Silverpoint from 2 to 5 p.m. Join artist Randall DiGiuseppe for a fun-filled and informative drawing workshop that explores the history, mechanism, and methods that make silverpoint such a special drawing medium. You get to try your hand at creating your own silverpoint drawing. Open to all skill levels. Light refreshments will be served. $65 per person includes all materials. To register, visit www.theatelieratflowerfield.org or call 250-9009.
Comedy Night Dinner Show
Yaphank Fire Department Truck Company #1, 31 Main St., Yaphank hosts a Comedy Night Dinner Show with doors opening at 6 p.m. Comedic line-up includes David Weiss, Dennis Rooney, “Banjo” Les Bayer and Eric Tartaglione. Tickets are $40 per person and includes a roast beef dinner, dessert, beer, wine and soda. To order tickets, call 905-2134.
Sunday 26
Car Show and Swap Meet
“Long Island Cars” kicks off its 2023 season with a “Super Swap Sunday” Car Show & Swap Meet at Bald Hill, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hundreds of classic and collectible automobiles including street rods, muscle cars, antiques, exotics and imports will be on display along with a swap meet, live music, food and refreshments. Admission is $10, children under age 12 are free. Call 567-5898 or visit www.LongIslandCars.com.
Port Jefferson Food Drive
The Port Jefferson Rotary Club and “Call Brian” Senior Services will sponsor a Friends of the Pantry Food and Personal Care Items Drive at the Open Cupboard Pantry at Infant Jesus Church, 110 Hawkins St., Port Jefferson today from 9 a.m. to noon. Currently the pantry is in extreme need of boxed milk, Ramen soup, juice, pancake mix (complete), pancake syrup, peanut butter, jelly, mac & cheese, pasta sauce, condiments, Maseca flour, cooking oil, cereal oatmeal, canned fruit, black beans, canned mixed vegetables, coffee and healthy snacks. They are also in need of personal care items such as shampoo, conditioner, deoderant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, toilet paper, baby shampoo, baby wash, baby wipes, Enfamil formula, Desitin and lotion. Grocery store gift cards and cash also accepted. Please help them help those in need during these difficult times. For more information, call 938-6464.
Huntington Farmers Market
The John J. Flanagan Center, 423 Park Ave., Huntington hosts the Huntington Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March with over 40 vendors plus guest vendors. Visit www.longislandfarmersmarkets.com.
Port Jefferson Farmers Market
The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market will be held at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 30. Featuring over 20 vendors. Call 473-4778.
Dedication Ceremony at Caroline Church
Caroline Church of Brookhaven, 1 Dyke Road, Setauket will host a dedication ceremony for its newly restored historic 1887 seven-bay carriage shed at 11 a.m. The shed will be dedicated to the men and women who joined together to fund and build an enclosure designed to provide shelter for their horses and carriages. The name plaques will be unveiled and a few short stories will be told about the owners of the stalls. All are welcome. For more information, call 941-4245.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The 33rd annual Ronkonkoma St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held at 2 p.m. Grand Marshal John McNamara will lead the parade from Hawkins Avenue at School Street, south down Hawkins Ave ending at Thorne Street. Call 304-6303 or visit www.ronkonkomaparade.org.
Flax Pond Lecture
Friends of Flax Pond invite the community to join them at the Childs Mansion, 19 Shore Drive, Old Field at 3 p.m. for a lecture titled “Diamondback Terrapin: the Turtle with the Clown Lips” presented by John Turner. These amazing turtles inhabit our local coastal areas. Late each spring and early summer the females come ashore to nest on our local beaches. Conservation is key to their continued survival. John will present information about these fascinating creatures as well as some of the local conservation efforts. As always light refreshments will be served. Please bring a reusable coffee mug to reduce waste. The lecture is free, but donations are gratefully accepted. Parking is at the Flax Pond Lab, adjacent to the Childs Mansion. If you need other arrangements for parking and have a “handicap parking pass,” please e-mail or text 631-767-6287 to make arrangements.
Eagle River Band in concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by the Eagle River Band from 3 to 4 p.m. Free with admission to the museum. For more information, call 689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org.
Ridotto Concert
Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto concert titled Abbandonata at 4 p.m. Program will include Haydn: Cantata ‘Arianna auf Naxos; string Quartets by Haydn and Boccherini, Monteverdi for lute and voice, Gluck arias ‘oh del mio’ and ‘Che faro Eurydice’ with Kate Lerner, mezzo; Christopher Morrongiello, lute; and Poetica Quartet with Song-A Cho, violin.Tickets are $35, $30 seniors, $25 members and $12 students. For reservations, call 385-0373 or email [email protected].
Comedy Show fundraiser
Port Jefferson Moose Lodge, 37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mt. Sinai hosts a Comedy Show fundraiser by the Terryville Road PTA for Port Jefferson Station 8-year-old Tenzin Tanaka who is battling leukemia at 4 p.m. (Doors open at 2:30 p.m.) with comedians John Butera, Chris Roach, Dan LaRocco, Rich Walker and Fat Jay.With 50/50 raffle auction. Mature audiences only. $30 per person, $50 per couple. For tickets, please call 516-662-0931.
Monday 27
SHS Lecture
Smithtown Historical Society concludes its Spring Lecture Series at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown with a presentation titled “Looking Back: 1965 Smithtown’s Tricentennial” with SHS Vice President Maureen Smilow. Take a look back at the celebration where a time capsule was buried at Town Hall and a grand parade, complete with a real bull, took place on Main Street. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. For more information, call 265-6768.
Tuesday 28
NSJC Social Club event
North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station will screen the film Jewish Broadway about the contributions of Jewish talent to the entertainment industry in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee among other refreshments will be served. $5 per person, $3 members. Call 928-3737 for more information.
Healthy Libraries event
Drop by Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station between 2 and 4:30 p.m. to meet with Stony Brook Medicine healthcare professionals and graduate student interns from the fields of social work, public health, nursing, and nutrition for assistance with access to in-person and virtual healthcare resources. Questions? Call 631-928-1212.
An Evening of Sound Healing
Port Talks presents Desmond O’Sullivan live at The Space in Port Jefferson, 234 Traders Cove, Port Jefferson from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. As the captain of the Celtic Quest fishing boat, learn why Desi is passionate about the healing power of sound. He will demonstrate how to use sound and frequency to optimize health and well being and how they can be of great benefit to the human spirit. This event will include pre-networking, an interview and demonstration. $20 per person. Register at www.portjefftalks.com. For more information, text 516-939-8960.
CAC Sky Room Talk
Join film historian Glenn Andreiev for a Sky Room Talk, Made Men and Mobsters — The Mafia in the Movies, at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington at 7:30 p.m. See familiar Mafia movie moments, which range from frightening to funny, and discover seldom seen mobster classics. See clips from silent era mob movies, the eye-popping 1932 Scarface, newsreel footage of some real wise-guys, along with some 1970’s mob movies that slipped under the radar. There will also be some trivia questions with mobster-like prizes. Tickets are $17, $12 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org to register.
An evening of Swing Dance
Swing Dance Long Island, a non-profit social dance club, holds weekly dances every Tuesday evening at theHuntington Moose Lodge, 631 Pulaski Rd. Greenlawn with beginner swing lessons at 7:30 p.m. and dancing from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Singles and beginners are welcome.No partner necessary. Admission is $15-DJ night,$20-band night on the third Tuesday of the month. For more information, call 516-521-1410.
Comedy Night at the Engeman
Join the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport for a Comedy Night at 8 p.m. Come have some laughs, enjoy some cocktails, and listen to some very funny comedians! Tickets are $45 per person. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Wednesday 29
Staller’s Starry Nights
Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents Starry Nights in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. With the combined talent of Stony Brook’s established artists and its rising stars, Artist-in-Residence Colin Carr and company continue to enchant audiences with their musical wizardry. Program will include Shostakovich Piano Quintet in G minor featuring renowned violinist Hagai Shaham, as well as the beloved Schubert String Quintet featuring Mr. Carr and the Pelia String Quartet. Tickets range from $43 to $48. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.
Thursday 30
No events listed for this day.
Theater
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Only two more chances to catch a performance of the 24th annual Festival of One-Act Plays on Theatre Three’s Second Stage. The show closes on March 25. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Festival of One-Act Plays
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 24th annual Festival of One-Act Plays through March 25 at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre, on the Second Stage. Selected from over 750 submissions world-wide, these seven cutting-edge premieres are guaranteed to entertain and engage. Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the plays will feature Steve Ayle, Tamralynn Dorsa, Antoine Jones, Brittany Lacey, Phyllis March, Evan Teich, Steven Uihlein, Sean Amato, Ava Andrejko, Angelo DiBiase, Samantha Fierro, Jason Furnari, Melissa Norman, Danielle Pafundi, and Tristan Prin. Adult content and language. Tickets are $20. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’
The swashbuckling musical adventure The Scarlet Pimpernel heads to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport from March 16 to April 30. Percy Blakeney, a proper Englishman, takes on a sword fighting and dashing double identity as The Scarlet Pimpernel to save French citizens from the blood-hungry guillotine. His exploits soon become the talk of Paris, however, the fanatical Agent Chauvelin will stop at nothing to catch the Pimpernel and send him to the guillotine. With a rousing and passionate score by Frank Wildhorn,The Scarlet Pimpernel is a thrilling musical! For ticket info, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Seussical’
Mount Sinai High School, 110 North Country Road, Mt. Sinai presents the musical Seussical on March 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. and March 25 at 2 p.m. This special Theater for Young Audiences version of the Broadway hit has been rewritten and streamlined to engage audience members from age 4 to 94. Tickets are $15, $12 seniors and students at www.Ludus.com/MountSinaiPerformingArts. Questions? call 870-2882.
‘Prde@Prejudice’
Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, presents Pride @ Prejudice from April 7 through May 6. Watch Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy fall in love all over again – this time filtered through the world of the internet. Modern voices interject and build on this classic love story in the form of blog posts, chat room discussions, quotes from film adaptations, and even letters from Ms. Austen herself to create a delightfully postmodern view of 19th century England. Five actors play nearly two dozen roles in this hilarious and moving homage to Jane Austen’s most beloved novel, Pride and Prejudice. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and up. To order, call 928-9100 or visit theatrethree.com.
‘The Comedy of Errors’
The Theatre at Suffolk County Community College, Ammerman campus, 533 College Road, Selden presents a production of The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare in the Shea Theatre in the Islip Arts Building on April 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. and April 16 and 23 at 2 p.m. Mature content. General admission is $15. For tickets, call 451-4163.
Film
‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington’
Celebrate St. James continues its classic movie series with a screening of Frank Capra’s Mr. Smith Goes to Washington starring Jimmy Stewart and Jean Arthur at the St. James Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James on March 26 at 1 p.m. Tickets are $25, $20 seniors and members. To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org or call 984-0201.
‘I Am Not’
Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with a viewing of I Am Not at JFK Middle School on March 27 at 7 p.m. The film follows the journey of Oren Levy, a young adopted Israeli man who travels back to Guatemala in search of his identity. Followed by a Q&A with guest speaker Ehud Levy, Oren’s father and subject in film, via live Zoom. Tickets are $10 at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com or at the door.
* All numbers are in (631) area code unless otherwise noted.
This week’s featured shelter pets are, from left, Chrissy and Janet, a pair of six year-old sisters who grew up in the Smithtown Animal Shelter.
They were both adopted into a new home for a year and a half, but their new parents sadly had to return them after they fell on hard times.
Both of these loves are very sweet and enjoy snuggles and being petted. They are initially shy, timid, and low-key when first meeting someone, but will open up when given space and time to learn to trust.
Chrissy and Janet have lived with other cats before, and would do best in a quiet home without any children or loud dogs. We would love for these sisters to be adopted together, but they can be separated for the right home.
If you would like to meet Chrissy and Janet, 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.
A scene from last Saturday's Snowflake Classic. Photo from Stony Brook Athletics
The Stony Brook track and field team opened its spring season at home with the Stony Brook Snowflake Classic on March 18.
The men’s team secured seven first-place finishes. Graduate Miles Ryan paced the Seawolves on the track with two first-place finishes. Ryan earned a first-place finish in the 110 meter hurdles and the 400 meter hurdles with final times of 15.15 and 57.99, respectively.
Junior Gavin Da Vanzo led the way for Stony Brook in the field events. Da Vanzo took home the victory in the high jump with a final mark of 1.55m and earned a second-place finish in the long jump with a final mark of 6.60m.
HIGHLIGHTS
Junior Alex Kanes earned a first-place finish in the long jump with a final mark of 6.75m. Kanes also secured a third-place finish in the 100 meter dash with a final time of 11.63.
Junior Aleks Zdravkovic crossed the line in 49.69 to earn the first-place finish in the 400 meter.
Freshman Michael Hawkes clocked in at 4:12.04 which was good for a second-place finish in the 1500 meter.
Sophomore Steven Struk took home the victory in the 3000 meter with a final time of 8:38.45. Freshman John Fontanez finished directly behind Struk in second with a final time of 8:45.11.
Sophomore Seth Hilario earned a new personal best and a second-place finish in the 110 meter hurdles with a final time of 15.59.
Sophomore Darnell Paul secured a first-place finish in the shot put with a final mark of 13.41m.
A scene from last Saturday’s Snowflake Classic. Photo from Stony Brook Athletics
The women’s team secured eight first-place finishes. Graduate Dana Cerbone paced the Seawolves with two first place finishes. Cerbone earned a first-place finish in the 200 meter dash with a final time of 25.24 and in the 400 meter dash with a final time of 57.86. The graduate also secured a new personal best in the 400 meter.
Junior Danella Dawkins crossed the line in 14.58 to earn a first-place finish and a new personal best in the 100 meter hurdles and a top five finish in the 200 meter dash.
HIGHLIGHTS
Junior Jaelyn Davis earned a first place finish in the 100 meter dash with a final time of 12.45. Graduate Akajia Atkins finished behind Davis in second with a final time of 12.56.
Aristea Franks rounded out the podium for the Seawolves in the 200 meter with a final time of 25.53. Enyero Omokeni, Dawkins, Atkins, and Davis all finished within the top seven in the event.
Omokeni recorded a second-place finish in the 400 meter with a final time of 58.00. Sophomore Jada Hodge rounded out the top three with a final time of 58.01. Freshman Samantha St. Juste and Aristea Franks completed the top five for Stony Brook.
Graduate Tara Hauff clocked in at 2:18.35 in the 800 meter to take home the victory. Junior Rebecca Clackett finished behind Hauff in third with a final time of 2:25.95.
Junior Nicole Garcia led the way for the Seawolves in the 1500 meter earning a first-place finish with a final time of 4:44.20.
Graduate Siara Guevara crossed the line in 1:04.79 to secure the win in the 400 meter hurdles.
Junior Alexandria Earle took home the victory in the high jump with a final mark of 1.55m. Sophomore Brienna Ahmetaj finished directly behind Earle in second with a final mark of 1.50m.
The teams are back in action March 23-25 when the squad competes at the Raleigh Relays in Raleigh, N.C. and at the Monmouth Spring Opener in West Long Branch, N.J.
Stony Brook University was recently named a 2022 Tree Campus Higher Education Institution for the tenth consecutive year. Tree Campus Higher Education, the national program launched in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation, honors colleges and universities, and their leaders, for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation.
Alaina Claeson, Horticulturist/Landscape Coordinator at Stony Brook University said, “This tremendous distinction would not be possible without the support of our Campus Operations & Maintenance team that is committed to creating and maintaining green spaces across our campuses. Over the last ten years, our outdoor spaces have dramatically transformed and evolved as the University continues to take strides towards sustainability and renewability.”
To obtain this distinction, Stony Brook University met the five core standards for effective campus forest management, including:
establishing a tree advisory committee
creating a campus tree care plan
dedicating annual expenditures for that campus tree program
observing Arbor Day
sponsoring student service-learning projects
Over the last ten years, the University has planted just over 1,200 trees and engaged with hundreds of students who have helped plant and maintain our landscapes across campus during numerous University events.
Please find more of Stony Brook University’s efforts to preserve green spaces on campus on the Sustainability website.
The Selden campus of Suffolk County Community College. File photo
For the first time in nearly five years Suffolk County Community College is experiencing an enrollment increase, due in part to an increase in the number of students returning to the college from the fall 2022 to spring 2023 semesters, according to preliminary census data reported today to SUNY administration.
“Suffolk offers not only the lowest college tuition on Long Island but also an engaging and supportive on-campus environment that welcomes every student,” said Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Edward Bonahue. “By focusing on what students need from their college experience — whether it’s transfer to a bachelor’s degree or career-facing opportunities — our faculty and staff are committed to helping students achieve their goals.”
“We also know that many of our students balance college courses with work and family obligations, and we want to do everything we can to offer flexible options that meet their needs,” Bonahue said. MicroMesters are a great way to earn credits in a compressed time frame, he said.
“There are two 7.5-week MicroMesters within a traditional 15-week semester. MicroMester classes are faster-paced, meet more often and may appeal to recent high school graduates who are accustomed to attending classes five days per week and completing daily assignments in a shorter time frame,” Bonahue explained.
“Community College state funding is tied to enrollment” said College Board of Trustees Chair E. Christopher Murray. “Enrollment increases our revenue and fees as well as New York State’s contribution to our College,” he said. “Over the last 18 months, the college has made a focus on the students’ experience its highest priority, has expanded outreach to Hispanic students and families with bilingual marketing materials, and has raised the visibility of career-facing programs and short-term workforce certificates and the college is now seeing the benefits in terms of growth.”
“At Suffolk, there are signs of a promising enrollment recovery, particularly with the number of first-time students enrolling at the college and students who are continuing their studies at Suffolk,” said Suffolk’s Interim Vice President for Planning and Institutional Effectiveness Kaliah Greene. “This mid-semester snapshot shows enrollment increases at every campus and in nearly every student category, including new students, continuing students, and transfer students.” The college also expects to report increases in the number of high school and non-credit workforce students being served.
According to institutional enrollment data, year-over-year spring enrollment grew by nearly three percent or 367 students, from 13,982 to 14,349 students. The college’s full-time equivalent, a measurement that converts all enrollment into a common standard, also increased one percent.
“The real story is the shift in persistence of students we’re seeing,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Patricia Munsch. “More students chose to continue their studies from the fall ’22 semester to the spring ’23 semester as compared to last year.” Nationally, retention and persistence are indicators of whether students will progress and ultimately complete their college education. “The entire college is focused on engaging students in ways that encourage their persistence, and we are working hard to extend this enrollment momentum into the fall and next spring.”
“The increase in enrollment we’re seeing right now is a credit to our employees,” added Bonahue. “Every single employee, every office in the college is committed to serving our students, and the enrollment increase we’re now seeing shows how we’re focused on that mission every day.”
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook has announced its concert schedule for the month of April:
Wednesday, April 5 at 1 p.m.
Young at Heart: The Latin Side of Jazz at the Jazz Loft
The Jazz Loft Trio will present Latin Jazz music from Cuba and the Spanish Caribbean. Young at Heart is a monthly themed afternoon jazz concert series to help seniors with memory loss regain memory through familiar tunes.
Tickets: $10
Wednesday, April 5 at 7 p.m.
Jam Session at the Jazz Loft
The Jazz Loft Trio led by Keenan Zach will be performing at the Jazz Loft. Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow Jazz enthusiasts.
Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.
Thursday, April 6, Friday, April 7, & Saturday, April 8 at 7 p.m.
The Jazz Loft Big Band Presents Stan Kenton’s Cuban Fire Suite at the Jazz Loft
26-piece Jazz Orchestra directed by Jazz Loft Director, Tom Manuel, trumpet
Tickets: Adults $40, Seniors $35, Students $30; Children $25
Wednesday, April 12 at 7 p.m.
Jam Session at the Jazz Loft
The Jazz Loft Trio led by Keenan Zach will be performing at the Jazz Loft. Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow Jazz enthusiasts
Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.
Thursday, April 13 at 7 p.m.
The Madiran Wine Bar 209 NY-25A, Setauket – East Setauket NY 11733
Tom Manuel hosts vintage craft cocktails and a listening session in the Coal Bin at the Jazz Loft spinning rare unreleased master acetates from the 1930s-60s.
Tickets: $100 (21+)
Wednesday, April 19 at 7 p.m.
Jam Session at the Jazz Loft
The Jazz Loft Trio led by Keenan Zach will be performing at the Jazz Loft. Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow Jazz enthusiasts.
Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.
Thursday, April 20 at 7 p.m.
The Bad Little Big Band at the Jazz Loft
12-piece big band featuring vocalist Madeline Kole, directed by composer, arranger, pianist Rich Iacona
Tickets: Adults $30; Seniors $25; Students $20; Children $15
Friday, April 21, at 7 p.m.
Harry Allen Quartet at the Jazz Loft
Harry Allen, tenor saxophone, Steve Ash, piano, Mike Karn, bass, Bryan Carter, drums
Tickets: Adults $30; Seniors $25; Students $20; Children $15
Saturday, April 22 at 7 p.m.
Elsa Nilsson Band of Pulses at the Jazz Loft
Flutist Elsa Nilsson, Pianist Santiago Leibson, Bassist Marty Kenney and drummer Rodrigo Recabarren
Tickets: Adults $30; Seniors $25; Students $20; Children $15
Wednesday, April 19 at 7 p.m.
Jam Session at the Jazz Loft
The Jazz Loft Trio led by Keenan Zach will be performing at the Jazz Loft. Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow Jazz enthusiasts.
Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.
Thursday, April 27, 7 p.m.
Interplay Jazz Orchestra at the Jazz Loft
17-piece orchestra by Joe Devassy, trombone; Gary Henderson, trumpet
Tickets: Adults $30; Seniors $25; Students $20; Children $15
Friday, April 28, 7 p.m.
The Institute For New Music Launch Event at the Jazz Loft
Ray Anderson Ensemble
Tickets: Adults $30; Seniors $25; Students $20; Children $15
Saturday, April 29, 2 p.m.
The Institute For New Music Launch Event at the Jazz Loft
Stephen Nachmanovitch Improvisation Workshop
Tickets: Adults $30; Seniors $25; Students $20; Children $15
For people who suffer from seasonal allergies, life is about to get really uncomfortable. METRO photo
Over the counter medications help some sufferers
By David Dunaief, M.D.
Dr. David Dunaief
This past weekend, we adjusted our clocks for Daylight Saving Time, the unofficial end of winter. Because it’s been warmer than usual this winter, I’ve noticed crocuses and daffodils are already sprouting and we’re just a few weeks out from full scale tree buds.
For people who suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis, hay fever, seasonal allergies or whatever you would like to call it, life is about to get really uncomfortable. Just over 25 percent of U.S. adults were diagnosed with seasonal allergies in 2021, and 18.9 percent of children were diagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (1). The triggers for seasonal allergies are diverse. They include pollen from leafy trees and shrubs, grass and flowering plants, as well as weeds, with the majority from ragweed (mostly in the fall) and fungus (summer and fall) (2).
What triggers allergic reactions?
A chain reaction occurs in seasonal allergy sufferers. When foreign substances such as allergens (pollen, in this case) interact with immunoglobulin E (IgE), antibodies that are part of our immune system, they cause mast cells in the body’s tissues to degrade and release inflammatory mediators. These include histamines, leukotrienes and eosinophils in those who are susceptible. In other words, it is an allergic inflammatory response.
The revved up immune system then responds with sneezing; red, itchy and watery eyes; scratchy throat; congestion; sinus headaches; postnasal drip; runny nose; diminished taste and smell; and even coughing (3). Basically, it emulates a cold, but without the virus. If symptoms last more than 10 days and are recurrent, then it is likely you have allergies, not a virus.
If allergic rhinitis is not treated properly, you can experience complications like ear infections, sinusitis, irritated throat, insomnia, chronic fatigue, headaches and even asthma (4).
What medications help?
The best way to treat allergy attacks is to prevent them, but this is can mean closing yourself out from the enjoyment of spring by literally closing the windows, using the air-conditioning, and using recycling vents in your car.
On the medication side, we have intranasal glucocorticoids (steroids), oral antihistamines, allergy shots, decongestants, antihistamine and decongestant eye drops, and leukotriene modifiers (second-line treatment only).
The guidelines for treating seasonal allergic rhinitis with medications suggest that intranasal corticosteroids (steroids) should be used when quality of life is affected. If there is itchiness and sneezing, then second-generation oral antihistamines may be appropriate (5). Two well-known inhaled steroids are Nasacort (triamcinolone) and Flonase (fluticasone propionate). While inhaled steroids are probably most effective in treating and preventing symptoms, they need to be used every day and can have side effects, like headaches.
Oral antihistamines, on the other hand, can be taken on an as-needed basis. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra), have less sleepiness as a side effect than first-generation antihistamines, but don’t work for everyone.
Alternative treatments
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus), an herb, has several small studies that indicate its efficacy in treating hay fever. In one randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 131 patients, results showed that butterbur was as effective as cetirizine (Zyrtec) (6).
In another RCT, results showed that high doses of butterbur — 1 tablet given three times a day for two weeks — was significantly more effective than placebo (7). Researchers used butterbur Ze339 (carbon dioxide extract from the leaves of Petasites hybridus L., 8 mg petasines per tablet) in the trial.
A post-marketing follow-up study of 580 patients showed that, with butterbur Ze339, symptoms improved in 90 percent of patients with allergic rhinitis over a two-week period (8). Gastrointestinal upset occurred as the most common side effect in 3.8 percent of the population.
The caveats to the use of butterbur are several. First, the studies were short in duration. Second, the leaf extract used in these studies was free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). This is very important, since PAs may not be safe. Third, the dose was well-measured, which may not be the case with over-the-counter extracts. Fourth, there are interactions with some prescription medications.
Treating allergies with diet?
While there are no significant studies on diet, there is one review of literature that suggests that a plant-based diet may reduce symptoms of allergies, specifically rhinoconjunctivitis, affecting the nose and eyes, as well as eczema and asthma. This is according to the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood study in 13- to 14-year-old teens (9). In my clinical practice, I have seen patients who suffer from seasonal allergies improve and even reverse the course of allergies over time with a vegetable-rich, plant-based diet, possibly due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Analogously, some physicians suggest that their patients have benefited from removing dairy from their diets.
While allergies can be miserable, there are a significant number of over-the-counter and prescription options to help reduce symptoms. Diet may play a role in the disease process by reducing inflammation, although there are no formal studies. There does seem to be promise with some herbs, like butterbur. However, alternative supplements and herbs lack large, randomized clinical trials with long durations. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements, herbs or over-the-counter medications.
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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