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'I Like It Here'

This April, the 1st Annual Long Island Jewish Film Festival will make its debut at Huntington’s Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington, from April 14 to 16 and will include screenings of films at the forefront of Jewish cultural storytelling. 

The festival will feature films that include powerful documentaries, riveting dramas, and rarely seen pieces of film history, all curated by David Schwartz, Manager of Theatrical Programming at Netflix.

The Long Island Jewish Film Festival was organized to help celebrate the rich cultural traditions and history of the Jewish community in America, as well as abroad.  The featured films embody the vanguard of modern Jewish cinema, and will introduce Long Island audiences to the artists creating work most representative of leading Jewish filmmaking in the 21st century.

The Long Island Jewish Film Festival will begin on Friday, April 14 with a screening of the touching documentary I Like it Here, which features a Q&A with filmmaker Ralph Arlyck, and will run throughout the weekend, concluding with on Sunday, April 16 with a screening of the rarely seen 1924 silent film City Without Jews which features a live score performed by acclaimed musicians Alicia Svigals & Donald Sosin, as well as a screening of the Yiddish language Ukrainian film, Shttl, which will include a discussion with the film’s star, Moshe Lobel. 

Other films featured in the festival include My Neighbor Adolf, starring veteran German actor Udo Kier, America from award winning Israeli filmmaker, Ofir Raul Graizer, and the award-winning film, Farewell, Mr. Haffmann.

The Films:

Still from ‘I Like it Here’. 2022. Timed Exposures. Courtesy of Argot Pictures.

I Like It Here
Friday, April 14th at 7 PM

With Director Ralph Arlyck In Person

$15 Public | $10 Members
A meditation on aging, survival, memory, and the connections we build with family, friends, neighbors, and strangers, Ralph Arlyck’s utterly charming personal film asks, “How do we make the most of the precious time we have?” What started as a movie about his neighbor, a reclusive Hungarian immigrant, ended up as something universal, capturing the moments in daily life that reveal the pitfalls and pleasures of getting old. While always aware of mortality, it is a movie whose ultimate message is “L’chaim.” (2022, 88 mins)

Promotional Image from ‘My Neighbor Adolf.’ 2022. Courtesy of 2-Team Productions & Film Produkcja.

My Neighbor Adolf
Saturday, April 15th at 1 PM
$15 Public | $10 Members
In 1960s Colombia, a cantankerous Holocaust survivor passes his time tending to his garden and studying chess. His routine is interrupted by the arrival of a German man who he gradually becomes convinced is none other than Adolf Hitler. A surprisingly touching tale of loneliness and misunderstanding, it is also a master class in acting, with nuanced ‘performances by the Scottish actor David Hayman and veteran German actor Udo Kier, who has worked extensively with top directors including Werner Herzog, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, and Gus Van Sant. (2022, 96 mins)

A scene from ‘America’. Photo courtesy of Beta Cinema

America
Saturday, April 15th at 3:30 PM
$15 Public | $10 Members
When an Israeli man returns home after ten years in America, an emotional encounter with a childhood friend and his future-wife will change everyone’s lives. An engrossing drama that unfolds in lush landscape, America absorbs its characters, and the audience, in matters of life, death, and love. After the success of The Cakemaker, writer/director Ofir Raul Graizer returns with a film full of emotion and moral complexity, and beauty that is held together by three indelible performances by its young stars. (2022, 127 mins)

A scene from ‘Farewell, Mr. Haffmann’ Photo from YouTube

Farewell, Mr. Haffmann
Saturday, April 15th at 7 PM
$15 Public | $10 Members
Occupied Paris,1941: as members of the Jewish community are instructed to identify themselves to authorities, a jewelry shop owner (Daniel Auteuil) arranges for his family to flee the city and offers his employee (Gilles Lellouche) the chance to take over his store until the conflict subsides. Adapted from an acclaimed play, Farewell, Mr. Hoffmannpresents a world where lives are irrevocably shaped by the occupation. Rich in moral complexity and empathy, with several twists too good to spoil, this is grand, big-screen adult entertainment at its finest. (2021,115 mins)

Still from ‘City Without Jews’. 1924. Walterskirchen und Bittner. Public Domain.

City Without Jews
Sunday, April 16th at 2:00 PM
With live accompaniment by Alicia Svigals & Donald Sosin
$17 Public | $12 Members
Directed by H. K. Breslauer, and based on the novel by Hugo Bettauer. City Without Jews predicted the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe. Set in the fictional Austrian city of Utopia, the story depicts the consequences of an anti-Semitic law forcing all Jews to leave the country. Shortly after the film’s premiere, Bettauer was murdered by the Nazis. Shown in public for the last time in 1933 as a protest against Hitler’s rise to power, the film contains ominous and eerily realistic sequences, such as shots of freight trains transporting Jews out of the city. (1924, 80 mins)

Still from ‘Shttl’. 2022. Forecast Pictures, UP Hub & Wild Tribe Films. Courtesy of Bron Releasing.

Shttl
Sunday, April 16th at 5 PM
With star Moshe Lobel in-person
$15 Public | $10 Members
A Jewish village in Ukraine is on the verge of being invaded by Nazis. Evocative and visually compelling, Shttl draws from the vibrant canvas of a community with many differing reactions to the impending tragedy. Filmed in Ukraine, and edited to appear as one continuous shot, the camera never stops as it explores the rich world that it creates, and the vitality of lives about to be destroyed. Featuring a remarkable cast including Moshe Lobel (Broadway’s YiddishFiddler on the Roof revival) and Yiddish-fluent actor Saul Rubinek. (2022, 114 mins)

Tickets are $15 per screening with the exception of the film “City Without Jews,” which costs $17. A full festival pass is also available for $60, granting access to every film in the festival. To order tickets, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org. For more info, call 631-423-7610.

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ART IN BLOOM Four garden clubs will participate in this year’s Art in Bloom event at the Hecksher Museum of Art in Huntington on April 15 and 16. Above, a North Suffolk Garden Club display from 2022. Photo courtesy of Heckscher Museum
Ongoing

Flip Circus heads to Lake Grove

The circus is coming to town! As part of its 2023 national tour, FL!P Circus will put down stakes at the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove from April 14 to 24. Ringmaster Arthur Figueroa serves as host of this new circus adventure which will feature audience favorites Stiv and Roni Bello, Italy’s “siblings of silliness”; a trapeze act by Carolina Vazquez; and the Duo Vanegas on the rotating Wheel of Steel. Show times are 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and  1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets start at $25 for children and $40 adults with senior/military/handicap discounts available. For tickets and additional information, visit www.FlipCircus.com. Tickets will also be available in person at the box office during each engagement. For more information, call 877-829-7839.

Thursday April 13

Atelier art reception

The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield,  Suite #9, St. James hosts an opening reception for its’ latest exhibit, WOW! You’ve Got to See This!  by Kirk Larsen in Atelier Hall at 5:30 p.m. The exhibit runs through May 25. For more info, call 631-250-9009.

Vanderbilt Planetarium lecture

At 7 p.m. the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport welcomes Dr. David Munns, professor of history at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, for an evening lecture on the diverse technical systems needed to support life in space. Munns’s lecture will draw heavily from his 2021 book Far Beyond the Moon: A History of Life Support Systems in the Space Age. Tickets are $10, free for members, at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Avalon Astronomy event

The Observatories at Avalon Nature Preserve, Shep Jones Lane, Stony Brook will be hosting a live observing session (weather permitting) focusing on Venus, Mars, and various deep sky objects from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Outdoor event, dress for weather. Free. Call 631-689-0619 for more information.

Friday April 14

Fling Into Spring Carnival

Kick off Spring at the annual Fling into Spring Carnival at Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai tonight from 6 to 10:30 p.m., April 15 from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and April 16 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Come out for a weekend of fun featuring exciting rides for all ages by Newton Shows, plenty of mouth watering eats and treats, carnival games & prizes, children’s magic shows on Saturday and Sunday, and so much more! Admission to the carnival is free. Pay one Price ride wristbands, good for unlimited rides on the day of purchase, are $40 at the door, or $32 in advance at www.newtownshows.com.

Third Friday at the Reboli

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook hosts a free art history lecture with award-winning artist Kevin McEvoy from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. as part of its Third Friday series. Light refreshments will be served, no reservations are required to attend. Call 631-751-7707.

A Night of Opera

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 270 Main St., Northport hosts a concert by Opera Night Long Island at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an entertaining assortment of vocal excerpts from famous and beloved operas. Refreshments will be served. $10 donation, students free. Visit www.operanight.org.

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a Grounds and Sounds concert  featuring James O’Malley with special guests The Mountain Maidens and 3 of Hearts at 8:45 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with an open mic at 8 p.m. Light refreshments for sale. Tickets are $15 per person, available in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. Questions? Call 631-751-0297.

Saturday April 15

Fling Into Spring Carnival

See April 14 listing.

Birdwatch-Architecture Tours

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will offer an early morning Birdwatch and Architecture Tour with the Vanderbilt’s director of curatorial affairs at 8 a.m. Participants will enjoy the unique opportunity to view the Vanderbilt estate in the early dawn hours, when the grounds are still closed but the birds are active. Sturdy hiking footwear is strongly suggested. Participants are asked to bring their own binoculars. Tickets are $12 at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Art in Bloom

The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington presents its 4th annual Art in Bloom today and April 16 from noon to 5 p.m. The event features 12 floral arrangements from the museum’s four garden club partners — Asharoken Garden Club, Dix Hills Garden Club, North Suffolk Garden Club (Stony Brook), and South Side Garden Club (Bay Shore), that draw inspiration from artworks on view in Viewfinders: Photographers Frame Nature and Raise the Roof: The Home in Art. Visit www.heckscher.org.

Sunday April 16

Fling Into Spring Carnival

See April 14 listing.

Art in Bloom

See April 15 listing.

Car Show & Swap Meet

Long Island Cars will present their “Super Swap Sunday” Car Show and Swap Meet at Flowerfield Fairgrounds off Route 25A in Saint James from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m..  with classic and collectible automobiles including show cars from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, one-of-a-kind custom cars, antiques, exotics, street rods, muscle cars and imports, live music by The Fugitives, fun fair food and more. Rain date is April 23. Admission is $10, children 12 and under are free. Call 631-567-5898 or visit www.LongIslandCars.com.

Caumsett Hike

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Ave., Huntington for an adult hike, Nature on the Move, from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. Enjoy a slow to moderate pace for 4 miles while you observe and discuss the fields and woods in Caumsett. $4 per person. Reservations are required by calling 631-423–1770.

St. Baldrick’s fundraiser

Join the Three Village Dads Foundation for a St. Baldrick’s Foundation fundraiser to conquer children’s cancer at the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 3054, 8 Jones St., Setauket from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rockabilly Barbers East will be shaving the heads of the brave volunteers raising money, food, raffles, comedy, music and much more. $25 per person at the door. For more information, call 631-371-3239 or visit 3vdfoundation.org.

Spring Appreciation Day

Spring Appreciation Day returns to the Stony Brook Village Center, 97 Main St., Stony Brook with live music, a car show, a petting zoo and scavenger hunts with prizes from noon to 3 p.m. Featuring a petting zoo, Mustang and Shelby Club of Long Island car show, music by Brenda and Burke, scavenger hunts and more. The Stony Brook Grist Mill, 100 Harbor Road, Stony Brook will also be open for tours ($4 for adults, $2 for children, cash only) from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 631-751-2244.

Living History lecture

Celebrate St. James continues its Living History series at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James with a visit from Richard Smith, Mayor of Nissequogue and 10th generation descendant of Richard “Bull” Smith at 1 p.m. Explore what life was like in Smithtown during the time of the Revolutionary War and hear the real “bull” story. Tickets are $25, $20 members at www.celebratestjames.org. Call 631-984-0201 for more information.

Northport Walking Tour

Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for Parading Down Main Street, a lively and informative walking tour of Northport’s historic Main Street business district led by Dan Sheehan, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Tickets are $7 per person at www.northporthistorical.org.

LITMA Contradance

Long Island Traditional Music Association will host a Contradance at the Frank Brush Barn, 215 E. Main St., Smithtown at 2 p.m. with basic instruction at 1:45 p.m. With caller Bob Isaacs and live music by Torrent playing a lively mix of Irish, Scottish, French Canadian and traditional New England tunes. $15 general admission, $10 LITMA members, students half price, children under 16 free with paid adult. Call 631-369-7854 for further information.

The Como Brothers in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by The Como Brothers from 3 to 4 p.m. Free with admission to the museum. For more information, call 631-689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org.

Ridotto concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto concert, Capriccio, at 4 p.m.  A program inspired by the Capriccios of Tiepolo and Goya. Natasha Farny, violoncello solo plays Capricci by Abaco, Bach’s Cello Suite No. 2, and music by Shaw. Kinga Augustyn, violin solo, in music by Biber and Capriccios by Grazyna Bacewicz. Francisco Roldan, guitar, plays Tarrega and Albeniz. Tickets are $35, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. For reservations, call 631-385-0373, or email [email protected].

Monday April 17

TVHS lecture

Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket or via Zoom with Born in Brookhaven with Brookhaven Town Historian Barbara M. Russell at 7 p.m. Born in Brookhaven features people who were born in the Town of Brookhaven and are renown nationally or internationally for their contributions. Attendees will be able, at the conclusion, to suggest additional names for consideration. Suggested donation, free for members. To register, visit www.tvhs.org.

Tuesday April 18

Long Island Graveyards lecture

Frank Melville Memorial Park hosts a lecture at the Bates House, 1 Bates Road, Setauket titled Long Island Graveyards & Cemeteries at 7 p.m. Join Park Manager Robert von Bernewitz in learning about Setauket area gravesites, notable people buried on Long Island, different types of cemeteries, types of burial markers and more. Tickets are $10 per person at www.frankmelvillepark.org.

An evening of Swing Dance

Swing Dance Long Island, a non-profit social dance club, holds weekly dances every Tuesday evening at the  Huntington 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 on DJ night,  $20 on band night on the third Tuesday of the month. Call 516-521-1410.

The Prodigals in concert

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with a concert featuring The Prodigals at 8 p.m. The band combines original lyrics and melody with a genuine passion for the traditional music of Ireland and a funky energy that is pure New York. The roots of the music are unmistakably traditional Irish; the branches that shoot off delve into rock, worldbeat, jazz and punk, and the result has been called “the best Irish trad-rock band. Tickets are $45 per person. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Wednesday April 19

Garden Club program

Wading River Congregational Church, 2057 North Country Rd, Wading River will host a meeting by the Shoreham-Wading River Garden Club at 7 p.m. Club member Annika Shapiro will speak on the fascinating topic of medicinal plants. Admission is free, light refreshments will be served and all are welcome. For more information, call 631-987-3733.

Eco Printing workshop

Huntington Historical Society continues its adult workshop series at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington with Eco Printing workshop from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Using natural sources of dye, make a scarf using an eco print of leaves and flowers. $55 per person, $50 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistorialsociety.org or call 631-427-7045.

MP-MS Historical Society seminar

Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society presents a seminar titled Enrico Fermi: Voyage to a New World at the Rose Caracappa Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai at 7 p.m. Presenter Edward A. Sierra will discuss the life and work of Nobel Prize winner physicist Enrico Fermi. Free and open to all. Call 631-476-5742.

Miller Place Homemakers Auction

Miller Place High School, 15 Memorial Drive, Miller Place hosts the Miller Place Homemakers annual auction at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) Entrance fee is $5 and a food pantry item and includes a door prize ticket and 25 auction tickets. Raffle baskets, refreshments and 50/50 raffle also. Proceeds benefit community service projects. 

Thursday April 20

Gallery North reception

Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket hosts an opening reception for its latest exhibit,  Tell Me Something Back: Abstractions by Tom Brydelsky, a selection of recent works by Tom Brydelsky, from 6 to 8 p.m. The show is on view from April 13 to May 21 with an ArTalk on April 29 and a collage and painting workshop on May 7. Details can be found at www. gallerynorth.org.

Theater

‘Pride@Prejudice’

Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, presents the Long Island premiere of 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 631-928-9100 or visit 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. For ticket info, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.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 631-451-4163. 

‘(Mostly) True Things’

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St, Port Jefferson presents (Mostly) True Stories With A Twist “A Rough Start,” a game wrapped in a storytelling show that features true stories, with a twist, on April 15 at 7 p.m. This show features 4 true stories but 3 of them include subtle little lies. In the second act, the audience questions the storytellers, then votes for the person they think told it straight. Winners get a tote bag, and the whole truth about each story is shared before the end of the evening. It is a combination of comedy, heart and community that is truly a unique experience. Hosted by Jude Treder-Wolff, performers will include Nina Lesiga and David Lawson. Tickets are $15 online at Eventbrite or $20 at the door (cash only). Visit www.mostlytruethings.com. 

Film

‘All is Lost’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of All is Lost starring Robert Redford as a man lost at sea on April 13 at 2 p.m. This film is part of the Long Island Reads Film Series. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 to reserve your seat.

NY Dog Film Festival

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington hosts the 7th annual NY Dog Film Festival, a collection of short films celebrating the love between dogs, their people and the animal welfare groups that bring them together, on April 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Long Island Jewish Film Festival

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington hosts its first Long Island Jewish Film Festival from April 14 to 16. The three-day celebration of Jewish cinema and culture will feature documentaries, dramas and historical significant films curated by David Schwartz. For a full line-up, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Bobi Wine: The People’s President’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues on April 17 with a screening of Bobi Wine: The People’s President at John F. Kennedy Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station at 7 p.m. First-time co-directors Christopher Sharp and journalist Moses Bwayo tell the story of Bobi Wine, the musician-turned-politician leading the opposition to the 35-year regime in Uganda. Withstanding arrests, torture, and violence from the government, Bobi Wine and his wife Barbie risk their own lives and the lives of their children to lead their country towards freedom. Guest speakers via Zoom will be Co-Directors Christopher Sharp and Moses Bwayo. Tickets are $10 at the door or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

On the Waterfront

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Best of the Big Screen series with On the Waterfront on April 18 at 7 p.m. with an introduction by Philip Harwood. Marlon Brando gives the performance of his career as the prizefighter-turned-longshoreman, Terry Malloy, in this masterpiece of urban poetry. Tickets are $15, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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Liam Marsigliano, Alanna Rose Henriquez, Steven Uihlein and Sean Amato in a scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Samantha Fierro, Danielle Pafundi, Courtney Gilmore and Elizabeth Ladd. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Elizabeth Ladd and Sean Amato in a scene from 'The Adventures of Peter Rabbit'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-Tail -Samantha Fierro, Danielle Pafundi and Courtney Gilmore. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The McGregor's - Liam Marsigliano and Alanna Rose Henriquez. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Benjamin Bunny (Steven Uihlein) and Peter Rabbit (Sean Amato) in a scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of Theatre Three's 'The Adventures of Peter Rabbit'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

By Heidi Sutton

You know its officially Spring when Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-Tail, Mrs. Rabbit and the McGregors arrive at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson for The Adventures of Peter Rabbit. The  adorable show opened last week for spring break and runs through April 29.

Written by Jeffrey Sanzel and the late Brent Erlanson, the original musical is loosely based on one of the best-selling books of all time, The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, and features all of the beloved characters in the story.

The audience is whisked away to the countryside home of Mrs. Rabbit and her four bunnies who live next to Mr. and Mrs. McGregor who spend the day tending to their pride and joy — their garden. 

While Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-Tail listen to their mother by staying inside and doing their chores, Peter Rabbit and his cousin Benjamin Bunny sneak out to steal from their neighbor’s garden again and again to satisfy their insatiable appetite for lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley and string beans. The constant marauding finally wears the farmer’s patience thin and he plots his revenge.

Directed by Steven Uihlein, the cast of 8 is excellent and exemplifies the magic of live theater. Sean Amato and Steven Uihlein take on the characters of Peter and Benjamin, two comedic roles that provide quite a workout as they run through the theater to escape the “mean as a bear” farmer.

Samantha Fierro, Danielle Pafundi and Courtney Gilmore as Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-Tail spend most of their time looking for their wayward brother so he won’t get in trouble by their patient mother (Elizabeth Ladd) and often ask the audience if they have seen him. (“He’s right behind you!”)

Peter and Benjamin seem to be especially naughty and persistent this year and audiences will sympathize with the McGregors, wonderfully played by Liam Marsigliano and Alanna Rose Henriquez. 

With choreography by Sari Feldman, the musical numbers, accompanied on piano by Douglas Quattrock, are terrific, with special mention to “One More Time Around,”  “Run, Peter, Run!” and the hip hop number, “Peter’s Socks.” The final number incorporates all of the songs in a super mega-mix extravaganza.

In a brilliant move, the show takes advantage of the three sets of doors from the current mainstage production, Pride @ Prejudice, which, when opened, always reveals a surprise. Costumes by Jason Allyn are absolutely charming and wait until you see the lighting and special effects!

Souvenir bunnies in various colors will be sold before the show and during intermission and the entire cast will be in the lobby after the show for a meet-and-greet and photos.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents The Adventures of Peter Rabbit through April 29 with a special sensory sensitive performance on April 16 at 11 a.m. Children’s theater continues with Cinderella from May 27 to June 1, and Goldilocks & the Showbiz Bears from July 7 to 29. All seats are $10. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

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White Flowering Dogwood Tree

In honor of Earth Day 2023, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and PSEG Long Island, in partnership with the New York State Urban Forestry Council and the Arbor Day Foundation, will provide 225 customers in Suffolk County with a free tree through the Energy-Saving Trees program. The program showcases how planting the right trees in the right location can reduce utility bills and promote ongoing system reliability.

“It is always a pleasure to work alongside PSEG Long Island, they truly do incredible work in providing the community with valuable resources to help cut energy costs,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “In the spirit of Earth Day, this upcoming event will allow residents to choose a tree that will not only help reduce their energy bills but also support our air quality. Together we all can make a meaningful impact on the environment.”

“Strategically planting energy-saving trees helps save up to 20% on summer energy bills once the trees are fully grown, while also improving air quality and reducing storm water runoff for all residents across Long Island,” said David Lyons, PSEG Long Island’s Interim president and Chief Operating Officer.

The free energy-saving trees can be reserved at www.arborday.org/pseglongisland until all trees are claimed. The reserved trees will then be available for pick-up on Friday, April 21, at the H. Lee Dennison Building , 100 Veterans Memorial Highway in Hauppauge, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. All reserved trees will be held until noon, when they will become available on a first come, first served basis.

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

PSEG Long Island will also be on site at the H. Lee Dennison Building on April 21 to share information about energy saving and financial assistance programs. In addition, they will distribute reusable shopping bags and free LED lightbulbs to save customers money and energy, and to support the environment. Information, shopping bags and lightbulbs are available to all customers. The Energy-Saving Trees must be reserved ahead of time at link above.

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The event will feature a petting zoo. Photo from WMHO

Do you have a case of spring fever? April is blooming with lots of outside events on the North Shore including The Ward Melville Heritage Organization and Stony Brook Village’s free Spring Appreciation Day which returns on Sunday, April 16 to Stony Brook Village with live music, a car show, a petting zoo and scavenger hunts with prizes from noon to 3 p.m. 

Rocking Horse Farms will be set up in front of the Rustic Loft with a variety of animals for children to pet. The Mustang and Shelby Club of Long Island car show will take place between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the parking lot behind the Post Office with classic Mustangs and the latest Pony cars that Ford has to offer. Automobiles from 1964 to 2022 will be on display, including some special edition Mustangs like the classic Shelby GT500, GT350 and the iconic Boss 302. 

Brenda and Burke will be performing original and cover songs in the genres of R&B, Roots, Blues and Contemporary Acoustic on the steps of the Stony Brook Post Office and The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO)’s Youth Corps will be offering scavenger hunts around Stony Brook Village. Each person to return a completed scavenger hunt will be entered into a raffle to win Discovery Wetlands Cruise tickets. 

Lastly, the Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751) 100 Harbor Road, Stony Brook will be open for tours ($4 for adults, $2 for children, cash only) of the inner mechanical workings and history of the building and shopping in the Country Store from 1 to 4 p.m.

Spring Appreciation Day is sponsored by Goldfish Swim School and Suffolk Speech. For more information, call 631-751-2244.

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Legislator Rob Trottapictured with his dog Buddy.

Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta is participating in the 12th Annual Legislative Food Drive Challenge to collect pet food for the clients of Long Island Cares through the end of April. Since 2009, Long Island Cares has provided free pet food and supplies to individuals and families in need, in an effort to enable them to keep their pets at home instead of placing them in shelters.

Legislator Trotta pointed out that, according to Long Island Cares, dog and cat food are the most requested items by their member agencies. “I would be most appreciative if the generous residents and pet lovers in my district would help out,” he said.

The pet pantry is in need of canned and dry cat/dog food, cat/dog treats, birdseed, and food for fish, rabbits, and ferrets, as well as kitty litter and small new toys. The drive is from now until the end of April, and donations may be brought to Legislator Trotta’s district office at 59 Landing Avenue, Suite 1 (Blue Door), Smithtown. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9am until 5pm. For more information, please call his office at 631- 854-3900.

 

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Mr. Ed

MEET MR. ED

This week’s featured shelter pet is Mr. Ed, an eight year-old Male Domestic Shorthair who was previously adopted from the Smithtown Animal Shelter as a timid kitten. He was returned to the Shelter after his old family had to move and could no longer care for him. Mr. Ed is still a shy guy who will hide constantly, but with a little bit of time for him to learn to trust, he can be very sweet and affectionate. He’ll never turn down getting petted and some TLC. Mr. Ed would do best in a quiet and calm home that will have patience and give him the space he needs to flourish

If you are interested in meeting Mr. Ed, call to schedule time to properly interact with him in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room.

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.

 

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Even if you don’t use a salt shaker, you’re likely getting more sodium than the current guidelines. METRO photo
Eating whole foods can improve your odds of victory

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

We hear a lot about sodium and the importance of limiting your sodium intake. But what if you don’t have a health condition like hypertension? Should you still be concerned? The short answer is, “yes.” Most of us consume far too much sodium, as much at 3,400 mg per day, without even trying (1). Even if we don’t have hypertension, the impact of sodium on our health can be dramatic.

Sodium is everywhere, including in foods that don’t taste salty. Bread products are among the worst offenders. Other foods with substantial amounts of sodium include cold cuts and cured meats, cheeses, pizza, poultry, soups, pastas, sauces and, of course, snack foods. Processed foods and those prepared by restaurants are where much of our consumption occurs (2).

On the flip side, only about two percent of people get enough potassium from their diets (3). According to the National Institutes of Health, adequate intake of potassium is between 2600mg and 3400mg for adult women and men, respectively.

Why do we compare sodium and potassium intakes?

A high sodium-to-potassium ratio increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by 46 percent, according to a study that looked at more than 12,000 Americans over almost 15 years (4). In addition, both may have significant impacts on blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. To improve our overall health, we need to shift the sodium-to-potassium balance so that we consume more potassium and less sodium. And if you struggle with high blood pressure, this approach could help you win the battle.

Can sodium intake be too low?

Before we dive in too far, let’s address an “elephant in the room.” I’ve read several commentaries where experts warn that too-low sodium levels can be a problem. While this is true, it’s quite rare, unless you take medications or have a health condition that depletes sodium. We hide sodium everywhere, so even if you don’t use a salt shaker, you’re likely getting more sodium than the current guidelines.

Why lower your sodium consumption?

Two studies illustrate the benefits of reducing sodium in high blood pressure and normotensive (normal blood pressure) patients, ultimately preventing cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.

The first used the prestigious Cochrane review to demonstrate that blood pressure is reduced by a significant mean of −4.18 mm Hg systolic (top number) and −2.06 mm Hg diastolic (bottom number) involving both normotensive and hypertensive participants (5). When looking solely at hypertensive patients, the reduction was even greater, with a systolic blood pressure reduction of −5.39 mm Hg and a diastolic blood pressure reduction of −2.82 mm Hg.

This was a meta-analysis that evaluated data from 34 randomized clinical trials, totaling more than 3,200 participants. Salt reduction from 9-to-12 grams per day to 5-to-6 grams per day had a dramatic effect. The researchers believe that the more we reduce the salt intake, the greater the effect of reducing blood pressure. The authors recommend further reduction to 3 grams per day as a long-term target for the population and concluded that the effects on blood pressure will most likely result in a decrease in cardiovascular disease.

In the second study, a meta-analysis of 42 clinical trials, there was a similarly significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressures (6). This study included both adults and children. Both demographics saw a reduction in blood pressure, though the effect was greater in adults. Interestingly, an increase in sodium caused a 24 percent increased risk of stroke incidence but, more importantly, a 63 percent increased risk of stroke mortality. The risk of mortality from heart disease was increased alongside an increase in sodium, as well, by 32 percent.

Is potassium consumption important?

In a meta-analysis involving 32 studies, results showed that as the amount of potassium was increased, systolic blood pressure decreased significantly (7). When foods containing 3.5 to 4.7 grams of potassium were consumed, there was an impressive −7.16 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure with high blood pressure patients. Anything more than this amount of potassium did not have any additional benefit. Increased potassium intake also reduced the risk of stroke by 24 percent. This effect was important.

The reduction in blood pressure was greater with increased potassium consumption than with sodium restriction, although this was not a head-to-head comparison. The good news is that potassium is easily attainable; it’s found in many whole foods and is richest in fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes.

The bottom line: decrease your sodium intake by almost half and increase potassium intake from foods. Lowering sodium intake may have far-reaching benefits, and it is certainly achievable. First, consume less and give yourself a brief period to adapt — it takes about six weeks to retrain your taste buds, once you cut your sodium. You can also improve your odds by increasing your dietary potassium intake, striking a better sodium-to-potassium balance.

References:

(1) Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2019 Mar. (2) www.cdc.gov. (3) www.nih.gov. (4) Arch Intern Med. 2011;171(13):1183-1191. (5) BMJ. 2013 Apr 3;346:f1325. (6) BMJ. 2013 Apr 3;346:f1326. (7) BMJ. 2013; 346:f1378.

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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