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From left, organizer Daniel McKiernan, Janet Brennan, organizer Joel Posner and Adrienne McKiernan at the 2nd Annual Polar Plunge. The event raised $14,500 for Hope House this year. Photo courtesy of Hope House

By Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

Fr. Francis Pizzarelli

On March 15, I was honored to participate in the dedication of a roadway in front of the Port Jefferson Village Center on East Broadway to honor former Mayor Robert Strong.

Mayor Strong was an extraordinary public servant who loved the village of Port Jefferson and its’ people. He was a loving husband and father for more than 30 years and was a social studies educator in a school district on the South Shore.

As an educator he was outstanding; he always related social studies to public service, encouraging his students to be young men and women of integrity and service. I saw this first hand, as I spoke in his school district a number of times.

On the same day the Village of Port Jefferson dedicated a roadway to honor Mayor Strong, about 1000 feet away more than 100 people took part in the 2nd Annual Polar Plunge at Harborfront Park benefiting Hope House Ministries.

The significance of this annual event is not the money they raised and the fact that over 100 people came out to support this event; the real story is about the two young men who founded the Polar Plunge to support Hope House Ministries.

One man is a nurse working in a local hospital. The other young man is a professional entrepreneur who lives out East. These two young men became friends as teenagers while living at Hope House on Main Street in Port Jefferson Village.

A few years ago, they met after not seeing each other for more than 15 years. They started talking about the brotherhood they found living at Hope House and now they wanted to give back, That communication gave birth to the first polar plunge.

Their dedication, hard work and creativity with this event was inspirational to so many who gathered to support them. They drew on other alumni and friends they have made along the way who are now professional adults. These human connections made this event so successful and powerful.

As a nation, we continue to be so polarized. The disrespectful rhetoric and behavior on the part of so many in leadership is unconscionable. So, in the midst of all of our national chaos, it is refreshing to see hope in our midst. 

These young men and so many others that they lived with have changed and transformed their lives despite the many obstacles before them. Today they are contributing members to the various communities they live in around the country. I am so proud of the men they have become and the things that they are doing for others.

They have strengthened my hope that we can do better, one person at a time.

Father Francis Pizzarelli, SMM, LCSW-R, ACSW, DCSW, is the director of Hope House Ministries in Port Jefferson.

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METRO photo

Suffolk County’s Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan moves forward, encourages physical activity in safe, green spaces.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine today announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Green Key Parking Permit Program with Local Libraries, or Green Key PPP. The program is part of Suffolk County’s three-part plan to engage residents in physical activity, increase access to public green spaces, and educate residents to improve the overall health of the Suffolk County.

To encourage physical activity in safe green spaces, County Executive Romaine last year authorized county health officials and county parks officials to collaborate with the Suffolk Cooperative Library System to offer residents one-time Green Key parking permits through their local libraries.

Suffolk County libraries interested in participating in the pilot program will be offered the opportunity to purchase a pack of twenty-five parking permits for $125.

Beginning in April 2025, Library patrons will have the opportunity to purchase, for $5, a one-time parking pass to visit one of 10 Suffolk County parks on a date of their choice.

“In Suffolk County, we are blessed with an extensive network of beautiful parks where residents and visitors can engage in myriad activities,” said Executive Romaine. “We are inviting residents to take advantage of this offer to experience one of our Suffolk County parks one time for a generously discounted fee.”

Library patrons who take advantage of the Suffolk County Library Parking Permit Pilot Program will enjoy a first-hand experience of a county park for a day and may decide that purchasing a Parks Green Key Card is a worthwhile investment. The Green Key Card entitles holders access to all Suffolk County parks and reduced fees for activities.

“This pilot program is intended to get people moving to reduce their risk serious chronic illnesses,” said Dr. Gregson Pigott, Suffolk County Health Commissioner. “We hope to engage all communities to visit their local parks and participate in activities they may not know are available to them as Suffolk County residents.”

“The Parks department is happy to partner with the Suffolk County Health department and local libraries with the new Parking Permit Pilot Program. The County has amazing natural resources, and our hope is that residents get out and explore what they have right in their own backyard” said Commissioner Giannott, “Our goal is for residents to discover places they may not have ventured to in the past and enjoy Suffolk County for all it has to offer.”

“Libraries are all about connecting people to resources that benefit them. We look forward to partnering with Suffolk County to assist local residents with exercising their minds at our County’s amazing libraries and their bodies are our County’s beautiful parks” said Suffolk Cooperative Library System Director Kevin Verbesey.

As part of the pilot program and to better understand the communities we serve, Suffolk County officials will collect data, report, and formulate recommendations for the future.

Part two of Suffolk County’s Active People, Healthy New York Action Plan is the health department’s Nature Walk Program that offers walking and learning events featuring health and environmental specialists. Part three of The Plan involves changes to infrastructure in the latter part of 2025 & 2026.

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Nicole Kidman as Nancy Vandergroot in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Amazon Prime

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

“Sometimes I wonder. Is it even real?” This notion heralds an interesting premise, but the idea fails to manifest in Amazon Prime’s limp psychological thriller Holland. 

Holland, Michigan, is a midwestern idyll—a Dutch Stepford, complete with tulips and windmills. Rooted in Americana values, one expects the town to be composed of theme park facades. 

Nicole Kidman as Nancy Vandergroot in a scene from the film.
Photo courtesy of Amazon Prime

Life Management (Home Economics) teacher Nancy Vandergroot (Nicole Kidman) lives a seemingly picture-perfect existence with her devoted optometrist husband, Fred (Matthew Macfadyen), and a well-behaved thirteen-year-old son, Harry (Jude Hill). Her world is a softly padded suburban prison, with a church deacon husband who is a community pillar. When asked if she did something different with the dinner recipe, she replies: “Brown mustard instead of yellow. I felt like doing something crazy.” 

Nancy’s hunt for a missing earring reveals a stash of Polaroid film and a suspicious parking ticket. The discoveries suggest Fred is having an affair. Admitting that she likes to “play detective,” Nancy enlists the attentive shop teacher, Dave Delgado (Gael Garcia Bernal), to help uncover Fred’s double life. 

Nicole Kidman and Gael Garcia Bernal in a scene from ‘Holland.’ Photo from Amazon Prime

“He goes to a lot of conferences for an optometrist,” she shares. The pair embark on a search for answers. “Sometimes in life, you know, you’ve got to follow the clues wherever they take you.” About one hundred minutes in, the story turns dark. A climactic confrontation leads to a complication and a less-than-satisfactory second climax/conclusion. 

With the right treatment, the predictable setup can make for an engaging story. Alfred Hitchcock often elevated modest plots with unusual twists, interesting points of view, and an ability to elicit fully realized characters. Hitchcock knew film was less the telling of the story but how the story is told. Unfortunately, Andrew Sodroski’s cluttered screenplay and Mimi Cave’s jumbled direction fail to commit to a tone or style. 

Mixing horror tropes (including nightmare visions), caper standards (almost being caught while searching for evidence), and off-beat humor (a kiss interrupted by a car hitting another car), the genres are not blended but rather randomly stacked. 

Much of the dialogue feels like it is being delivered in quotation marks and italics as if everything is simultaneously important but not what it seems. “We have to stay through Tulip Time.” Is this meant to be humorous? Foreboding? Quirky? Ultimately, the statement feels awkward, as does most of the film.

Matthew Macfadyen and Jude Hill in a scene from ‘Holland.’ Photo from Amazon Prime

The most effective piece is the model train hobby shared by father and son in the orderly garage: “You get to make a story about someone you’ve never met before and direct their whole lives … you get to control everything.” The toy railway’s real purpose is much deeper and the film’s most chilling element. 

Kidman is a gifted actor. With Nancy, she channels some of the more benign shades of To Die For’s Suzanne Stone. Nancy is naïve, frayed, and sometimes a little loopy. Kidman manages to carve some dimension in the homemaker’s struggle, finding balance and understanding in the gathering darkness of Nancy’s crumbling reality. The fact that her internal imbalance is not fleshed out (or resolved) lies squarely with Sodroski and Cave. 

Macfadyen (so strong as Mr. Darcy in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice) makes Fred charming, easy, and plausible, veering away from the ominous. Bernal is slightly over-earnest as a man of great conscience who is clearly in love with Nancy. Some racial issues imposed on the narrative ultimately go nowhere, but Bernal uses those to give his character a sense of other in an almost solely white community. Hill makes Harry believable—both likable and subtle. 

Holland attempts to cover self-knowledge, infidelity, guilt, racism, psychological abuse, societal expectations, and a host of other concepts. By trying to say and do so many things, the film fails to unify as one. In the end, Holland is a simplistic suspenser mired in assorted clichés.

Rated R, the film is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

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By Heidi Sutton

What better way to hop into the spring season than with these adorable bunny butt cupcakes? These Easter bunny cupcakes have a bright, lemony white cake base with a marshmallow and white chocolate bunny diving into homemade buttercream “grass” frosting. Not only does this spring dessert make a delightful addition to your festive Easter spread, it’s also the perfect way to get the kids involved with seasonal activities.

Bunny Butt Cupcakes

Recipe courtesy of Amanda Rettke

Bunny Butt Cupcakes

YIELD: Makes 24 servings

INGREDIENTS:  

1 (2 layer size) white cake mix or your favorite cupcake recipe

1 tablespoon Pure Lemon Extract divided

1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract

3/4 cup white chocolate chips

2 sticks butter softened

16 ounces confectioners’ sugar

2 tablespoons milk

10 drops Green Food Color

1-2 drops Red Food Color

12 large marshmallows halved crosswise

3 tablespoons white nonpareil sprinkles

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare cake mix as directed on package, adding 1 tablespoon lemon extract and vanilla. Spoon 3 tablespoons batter into 24 paper-lined muffin cups. Bake as directed on package for cupcakes. Cool cupcakes on wire rack.

To make bunny feet: In medium, microwave-safe bowl, microwave white chocolate chips on high 30 seconds. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Spoon into pastry bag or re-sealable plastic bag. Snip small corner from bag. Pipe 24 pairs of bunny feet onto parchment or wax paper-lined cookie sheet. Use toothpick to smooth out bumps or rough edges, and gently tap cookie sheet on counter to help settle. Allow to harden 2 minutes in freezer or 15 minutes in refrigerator.

To make frosting: In large bowl, beat butter and remaining lemon extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating well after each addition and scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Add milk; beat until light and fluffy. Remove half the frosting and place in medium bowl. Add green food color; mix until evenly blended. Spoon into pastry bag fitted with grass decorating tip. Set aside. Remove half the remaining frosting into small bowl. 

Add red food color; mix until light pink. Spoon into another pastry bag.Using pink frosting, pipe three toes and padding on each bunny foot. Once frosting has set (about 1 hour) gently press down on pink frosting to create smoother look.

To assemble cupcakes: Pipe green frosting onto each cupcake in series of short motions to create individual grass spots. Cover top of each cupcake completely.

To make bunny butts: Place cut sides of marshmallow halves onto each frosted cupcake, leaving room for bunny feet. Shape remaining white frosting into dime-sized balls then roll with white sprinkles to cover. Pipe small drop of remaining pink or white frosting onto top of each marshmallow. Press bunny tail on top. Place both bunny feet against base of marshmallow with toes facing down.

Decorating tip: If you don’t have a grass tip, simply spread a thick layer of green frosting over the top of the cupcake. Then, using a fork, fluff frosting with an upward motion to create grassy texture.

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A scene from 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical.' Photo courtesy of John W. Engeman Theater
Engeman Theater brings beloved book series to life on stage

By Julianne Mosher

“Zoo-Wee Mama!” The Long Island premiere of Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical at The John W. Engeman Theater  in Northport sure does have an animal heart. Full of laughter, love and just a hint of silliness, this one is perfect to bring the kids to. 

Michael Deaner as Greg Heffley in ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’. Photo from John W. Engeman Theater

Directed by Marquez, and based on the popular book series by Jeff Kinney and the 2010 movie of the same name, Diary of a Wimpy Kid follows Greg Heffley (Michael Deaner, Matthew Eby), an awkward middle child who’s just starting junior high. 

His popularity level is low and the entire show is him trying to rise in the ranks. This is something he writes about in his journal … not a diary. His parents (Daniel Meglio and Jessica Mae Murphy) are preoccupied by Greg’s older punk brother, Rodrick (Kieran Brown) and their baby brother (depicted on stage as a puppet).

Navigating school with his overly sensitive BFF Rowley Jefferson (Amare Tavarez, Oliver Cirelli), his weird neighbor Fregley (Brady Goldman, Elliot Torbenson), and schoolmate Chirag Gupta (Nathan Benites, Pranav Ramkumar), Greg tries his hand in all things popular. He runs for school government against his arch nemesis, Patty Farrell (London Delvecchio, Claire Daly), which fails epically, and becomes a cartoonist for the school paper, which ultimately doesn’t work out either. 

Oh, did I mention poor Greg is doing all this while constantly being picked on by the eighth graders (Lexi Cid and Will Logan)?

With other twists and turns, the ensemble cast — Finn Brown, Liam Von Schmidt, John Moger, Scott Maciorowski, Camryn LaFemina, Zachary Kanakaris, Sophie Achee, Caraline Quackenbush, Erin Risolo and Sofia Jarmel — makes this show so relatable to anyone who has every attended middle school. Without them, the show would be incomplete. 

A scene from ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical.’ Photo courtesy of John W. Engeman Theater

And while the student population at this school has a bunch of differences and varying popularity ratings (which are shown on stage), the kids have one thing in common: Joshie (Jae Hughes) — a European popstar who has a standout solo song right after intermission. Everyone loves Joshie, but their biggest fan is definitely Rowley who has the “Animal Heart” singer’s poster on his wall. 

On stage, the scene is set with your typical school lockers, cafeteria and kids’ bedrooms. Always on stage, however, is Greg’s journal, which updates the audience with his drawings and notes throughout the show. His life literally becomes an open book. 

Overall, this show is catchy, fun and a great afternoon out for children of all ages. Parents will be completely impressed by the professionalism and talent of these young actors, while kids will laugh at the relatable song and dance. So, grab your “Mom Bucks” and purchase a ticket to the Engeman’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid. You won’t regret it.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical through April 27. Children’s theater continues with Madagascar A Musical Adventure from July 19 to Aug. 24. Tickets are $20 per person. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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Catch a screening of 'Hop' at the Chamber Car in Port Jefferson Station this weekend!
PROGRAMS

Mommy/Daddy and Me

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North Country Rd., Mount Sinai is sponsoring a Mommy/Daddy and Me program for children ages 0 to 12 months on April 3, April 10, April 17 and April  25 at 10 a.m. Fee is $100 for the four sessions. Please contact Kevin at [email protected] or call 631-473-1582 to register.

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature for children ages 2 to 4 on April 4, April 11, April 18 and April 25 at 9:30 a.m. Little ones will learn about nature through hands on interaction, music, crafts, stories, play and more. $20 per child per class. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Egg Hunt at the Hatchery

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor will hold an Egg Hunt for children ages 0 to 6 on April 5, 6, 12,, 13, 17, 18 and 19 with 20 minute sessions scheduled throughout the day. Fee is $12 per participating child, $5 helper siblings ages 7 to 12, $7 adults, $6 seniors. Children must be accompanied by a parent. By reservation only at www.cshfishhatchery.org. Click here to register.

Doll Tea Party at the Museum

Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport hosts a Doll Tea Party on April 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kids will enjoy drinks and pastries, do fun crafts and activities, and get to see historical items from the collection related to tea. Dress up in your finest tea party attire for this exciting event! All children must be accompanied by an adult. Recommended for ages 5+. Tickets are $30 per child, $25 adults. RSVP at www.northporthistorical.org.

Little Artists Workshop 

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a Little Artists Workshop on April 5 at 11:30 a.m. Artist Robert Stenzel will guide students in making a  shining creation at a dip dyed stained “glass” workshop. Use paper and watercolor to create your own unique dip-dyed window ornaments that will light up any room! For children in Pre-K through 4th grade. Cost is $20 per child. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

All Kids Fair

Huntington Hilton, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville will host the 14th annual All Kids Fair on April 6 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with over 80 kid-centered exhibitors. Activities include bounce houses, petting zoo, music, face painting, balloon animals, puppies to cuddle, kid’s classes, arts and crafts and much more. Tickets purchased in advance are $5;  $10 for children ages 2 and up and $5 for adults at the door. www.AllKidsFair.com/Tickets.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on April 7 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Homeschool Hangout

Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a get-together designed for homeschooled children ages 5 to 12 on April 9 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Kids can relax, socialize, and build friendships in a welcoming environment. Enjoy casual hangout time before diving into creative group crafts, experiments and activities that connect fun & learning! Questions? Email [email protected]

Who’s Hatching?

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program, Who’s Hatching?, on April 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent/caregiver will enjoy short walks, stories, dances, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

FILM

‘Hop’

Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce invites the community to a screening of Hop at the Chamber Train Car, corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station on April 3, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15 and 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and April 12 at noon and again at 3 p.m. $20 per person includes popcorn , a cookie and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. To RSVP, call 631-821-1313 or visit www.pjstchamber.com.

‘School of Rock’

As part of its Cinema for Kids series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents a screening of School of Rock on April 6 at noon. Fired from his band, and facing a mountain of debts and depression, Dewey impersonates his friend to get a job as a fourth-grade substitute teacher at an uptight private school where his attitude and hijinx have a powerful effect on his students. Rated PG-13. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

THEATER

‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Diary of  a Wimpy Kid The Musical from March 22 to April 27. Read the books? Watched the movies? Now experience the musical! Middle school, ugh. It’s the worst. But Greg is determined not to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor, Fregley. Or maybe Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg…no way. All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

A Royal Princess Party

Tickets are now on sale for A Royal Princess Party: A Villainous Tale of Magic! at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from April 12 to May 4. Just in time for Spring Break, the princesses return to the Royal Kingdom of Smithtown to get together and explore some magical artifacts. Special surprises and magical touches make this show a royal treat! Tickets are $17.50 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

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

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FINAL ONE ACTS The 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays is winding down at Theatre Three Come see what everyone's raving about before the show closes on April 5. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Ongoing

FLIP Circus in Lake Grove

Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove from April 4 to 15.  Experience the magical moments under the red and white big top with trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers and more! Showtimes are 7 p.m. on weekdays; and 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $15 for children and $50 for adults, with senior/military/handicap and family pack discounts available at www.flipcircus.com or at the  box office during each engagement.

Thursday April 3

Game Night at the LIM

As a companion program to its Voices and Votes exhibition, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents an American Experiments Game Night from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. featuring a series of games developed by the Smithsonian Institution. Drop in to view the exhibition and participate in meaningful discussions about ideas that are critical to our democracy, all in a fun and engaging format. Adults and children are welcome to stop by and play! Free admission. No registration required. 631-751-0066

Gallery North Art Reception

Gallery North , 90 North Country Road, Setauket invites the community to an opening reception for Lori Horowitz: Undergrowth from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibition, which runs through May 11, features mixed media sculptures, reliefs, and photographs inspired by the study of the pristine and precious environment surrounding the artist’s home, and the cycles of nature and the social complexities that threaten the delicate balance. For more info, call 631-751-2676.

Audubon Society Lecture

Join Four Harbors Audubon Society for a Spring presentation, Paved Paradise: The Ecological Impacts of America’s Road System with guest speaker Ben Goldfarb,  via Zoom at 7 p.m. In his talk, Goldfarb will discuss the ecological harms wrought by transportation and the movement to redress them — and how we can create a better, safer world for all living beings. To register, visit www.4has.org.

Friday April 4 

Military Bridge

Join Union United Methodist Church, 1018 Pulaski Road, East Northport for an evening of Military Bridge at 7 p.m. Bring a group of four or come on your own. Tickets are $20. Call 631-806-3491 to reserve your tickets.

Jazz Orchestra Concert

The Jazz Loft’s 28-piece Big Band will present a performance of Stan Kenton’s “Cuban Fire Suite,” an authentic and highly energetic composition inspired and infused by Cuban rhythms, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. tonight at Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Performing Arts 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook and on April 5 at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors; $25 for students and $20 for children. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Saturday April 5

Jazz Orchestra Concert

See April 4 listing.

Nature Walk

Town of Brookhaven continues its free spring nature programs with Birding by the Beach at West Meadow Beach in Stony Brook at 10 a.m. and Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mt. Sinai at 2 p.m. Explore the unique ecology of the beach and salt marsh during this free program. Pre-registration required by emailing [email protected].

Hauppauge Spring Craft Fair

Shop small and save big! Hauppauge High School, 500 Lincoln Blvd. Hauppauge hosts a Spring and Gift Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring 100 local vendors selling crafts, jewelry, clothing, bath soaps, crochet, holiday decor, honey, candy, fashion accessories, woodworking, and spring lawn decor at this indoor event. Free admission and free door prize. 631-885-1267

Inclusion Resource Fair

In partnership with Sachem SEPTA and the Sachem School District, Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook will host an Inclusion Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Caregivers and individuals with special needs can connect with organizations that offer support services. Stop by and get a picture with Chippy, the library mascot. 631-588-5024

St. Baldrick’s event

VFW Post 3054, 8 Jones St., Setauket will host a St. Baldrick’s event for Three Village Heroes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring the family for a fun-filled day including music, food trucks, raffles, outdoor games and more to raise money to fight childhood cancer. Held rain or shine. 631-406-1938

Youth Abilities Fair

In partnership with Middle Country SEPTA, the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will host a Youth Abilities Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet representatives from various organizations and learn about their resources, services and activities for children and teens. Enjoy a sensory space, crafts, games, activities and meet the Super Mario Brothers and friends! Enjoy a spectacular magic show at 1 p.m. with the Great and Powerful Dave. 631-585-9393

Wet Paints Studio Art Reception

Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson invites the community to an artist reception for its latest exhibit on the Second Floor by the Wet Paints Studio Group from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Refreshments will be served. The exhibit runs through April 29. 516-380-7715

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church 18 Magnolia Place, Selden will hold a Spaghetti Dinner and Basket Raffle from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. $10 admission includes dinner, dessert, 5 raffle tickets and a door prize ticket. Proceeds benefit St. Cuthbert’s Food Pantry. To RSVP, call 631-732-8773 or visit their Facebook page.

Saturdays at Six Concert

All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook continues its Saturdays at Six series with a concert by Brazilian guitarist Octávio Deluchi at 6 p.m. The program will feature a balance between Spanish and Brazilian repertoire, including selections by Heitor Villa-Lobos, Astor Piazzolla, Chiquinha Gonzaga, Marco Pereira, and others. Free. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Sunday April 6

All Kids Fair

Huntington Hilton, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville will host the 14th annual All Kids Fair from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with over 80 kid-centered exhibitors. Activities include bounce houses, petting zoo, music, face painting, balloon animals, puppies to cuddle, kid’s classes, arts and crafts and much more. Tickets purchased in advance are $5;  $10 for children ages 2 and up and $5 for adults at the door. www.AllKidsFair.com/Tickets.

Spring Craft Fair

Backstage Studio of Dance, 200 Wilson St., Port Jefferson Station will hold a Spring Craft Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for art, crafts, jewelry, homemade gifts, soaps, clothing, personalized items, baked goods, crocheted items and much more. Free admission. For more information, call 631-331-5766.

Ridotto concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto concert featuring Spanish pianist Gustavo Diaz-Jerez at 4 p.m. The program will include works by Albeniz (Iberia), DeFalla, Soler and his own composition. Tickets are $35 adults $30 seniors, $25 members $12 students. To order, call 631-385-0373, or email [email protected]

Simon & Garfunkel lecture

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents Simon & Garfunkel: Old Friends at 3 p.m. In this unique 90-minute multimedia program, Tony Traguardo presents the story of the two kids from Queens who started their professional career together as ‘Tom and Jerry.’ Followed by a Q&A. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Toby Tobias in Concert

The Toby Tobias Ensemble presents a concert of Global American music at Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook at 3 p.m. A reception with the musicians will follow the concert. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 students. For more information, call 631-751-0574 or email [email protected].

Monday April 7

Lyme Disease Awareness Workshop

Visit Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station to learn all about Lyme disease with Doreen Eadie NP, Advanced Practice Provider from the Specialty Care Center at St. Charles Hospital from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. To register, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Tuesday April 8

NSJC Social Club event

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

Local Author Fair

Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook hosts a Local Author Fair from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Celebrate the joy of reading and writing! Meet and chat with local authors, purchase signed books and enter a raffle to win exciting prizes. Light refreshments will be served. Questions? Call 631-588-5024

Wednesday April 9

No events listed for this day.

Thursday April 10

TCAC art reception

Trinity Community Art Center, 130 Main St., Northport invites the community to an opening reception for “Reflections of Autism” by artist Erich Preis from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibition runs through April 27. 631-637-2278

Crafts & Cocktails

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for Crafts & Cocktails: Beachy Botanicals from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Just in time for spring, enjoy the floral notes of a refreshing Botanical Bliss cocktail or mocktail while crafting a unique whelk shell planter. Discover the cultural history of the channel whelk, then be inspired by the swirling geometry of these shells as you decorate your planter complete with a plantlet to take home! For adults 21 and up. $35 per person. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Spring Wreath Making Workshop

Create a floral spring wreath with Diana Conklin of Diana Everlasting at the Reboli Center for the Arts, 64 Main St., Stony Brook from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. A beautiful wreath in your decor is something special but a beautiful wreath made by you is even better! $45 per person includes all materials. For ages 12 and up. Call 631-751-7707 to register.

Comedy Night at the CAC

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Stand Up/ Sit Down comedy series in the Sky Room Cafe with live stand up with Richie Byrne at 8 p.m. followed by a Q&A with host Steven Taub. Tickets are $35, $25 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Film

Made in Huntington Film Festival

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will host the Made in Huntington Film Festival at various times from April 3 to April 6. Explore 36 selections ranging from a Public Service Announcement, animation, a silent film, bundles of short subjects and multiple feature length films. Tickets are $20, $18 members. For the full schedule, visit www.madeinhuntington.com/screenings.

‘Man From Pretentia’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Man From Pretentia, a tender portrait of “quirky” art dealer, Paul Bridgewater, who became a fixture of the Downtown NYC art scene, at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 3 at 7 p.m. Followed by a Q&A with the director, Chih Hsuan Liang, and producer, Steve Zehentner. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Juror #2’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a viewing of Juror #2 starring Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, J.K. Simmons, and Kiefer Sutherland on April 9 at 2 p.m. Open to all. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘Theater of Thought’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Science on Screen series with Theater of Thought: Neuroscience and the Human Brain on April 9 at 7:30 p.m. Followed by a conversation and Q&A with Dr. Alexei Koulakov from CSHL. Tickets are $16, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Dust to Dust’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Dust to Dust at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 10 at 7 p.m. Director Kosai Sekine follows haute couture designer Yuima Nakazato as he discovers the grave impact of “fast fashion” on the environment and then challenges his team and his industry to act more sustainably. Resources on recycling and a upcycled fashion show to follow the screening. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 15 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘Into the Woods’

Lighthouse Theatre Company presents the Tony award-winning musical Into the Woods at St. James Episcopal Church, Mills Hall, 490 North Country Road, St. James on April 4 and April 5 at 8 p.m. and April 6 at 3 p.m. Stephen Sondheim’s masterful score soars in this poignant dark-comedy featuring all your favorite fairytale characters as you’ve never seen them before. Proceeds benefit Celebrate St. James. (CSJ). Tickets are $35 adults $30 seniors/veterans, $25 CSJ members and includes dinner and dessert. To order, visit lighthousetheatrecompany.com/tickets.

‘Wait Until Dark’

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

‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’

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

(mostly) TRUE THINGS 

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

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 through April 27. 631-802-216

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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Sugar

ADOPT SUGAR!

She’s Sugar, spice and everything nice! Sugar is a delightfully sweet, and petite, chocolate-colored Min-Pin (Miniature Pinscher and Boston Terrier) Mix up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

This six-year-old girl’s journey began under some very unfortunate circumstances, originally rescued by the Shelter from a terrible breeding situation where she was used, neglected, and discarded. After medical care for being malnourished and dehydrated, this tiny survivor was later adopted… only to be returned to the shelter two years later due to her fears when it comes to meeting new people. This little survivor has been let down far too many times… but we know the right family is out there to give her the love she truly deserves.

Because of her difficult past, Sugar can be a little shy when meeting new people — but with patience, kindness, and a few treats, you’ll quickly earn her trust and see her wonderful personality shine. Sugar is smart, energetic, and eager to please. She loves to learn and will thrive in a quiet, compassionate home where she can finally feel safe, loved, and part of the family. If you’re ready to show Sugar that not all humans disappoint, she’s ready to fill your life with joy, loyalty, and unconditional love.

Sugar can become protective of her people, however she will listen when corrected. Sugar would be best suited in a quiet home with no other pets or children. Let’s get her story out to the world far and wide… if you’re not the right person for Sugar, you can still help by sharing her story on Social Media and with friends, neighbors and family.

If you are interested in meeting Sugar please fill out an application and schedule a date/time to properly interact in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are 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.

For more information regarding more rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 
URGENT – Foster Opportunity:
If you have no other pets or young children at home, and are looking for a way to serve your community, please consider signing up to be a foster. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens, and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for extended periods of time.
Download the Foster Application at:

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Ribbon for Chick-Fil-A in Selden on April 1, 2025. Photo courtesy of Brookhaven Town Clerk LaValle's office
Ribbon for Chick-Fil-A in Selden on April 1, 2025. Photo courtesy of Brookhaven Town Clerk LaValle's office

By Heidi Sutton

A new Chick-fil-A® restaurant began serving the Selden community on Tuesday, April 1. The event kicked off with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico, Brookhaven Town Clerk Kevin LaValle, Tabatha Fajardo from Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa’s office, Penny Hines from New York State Senator Dean Murray’s office, Thomas Lupo on behalf of Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy, Ryan Gessner from the Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce, staff, and members of the community. Franchise owner Stan Abrahamsen and his wife Debbie cut the ribbon.

Located in the College Plaza shopping center at 949 Middle Country Road, the 5,500-square-foot restaurant will be open for drive-thru, dine-in and delivery from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The new restaurant will also feature Mobile Thru, a fully dedicated lane in the drive-thru where Guests can pick up orders placed ahead of time on the Chick-fil-A App®.

The Selden restaurant joins 10 other Chick-fil-A restaurants serving Long Island, including Port Jefferson Station, Commack, Smithtown, Huntington, Farmingdale and the recently opened location in Farmingville in Suffolk County. Additional restaurants are planned for Medford, West Babylon and Lake Ronkonkoma.

Stan Abrahamsen, who also operates the Port Jefferson Station location, will be responsible for all day-to-day activities of the Selden business, including employing approximately 120 full- and part-time team members, “serving guests, cultivating relationships with local organizations and businesses, and tailoring philanthropic efforts to meet the Selden community’s needs,” according to a press release.

According to the release, Abrahamsen has lived on Long Island for 38 years and has spent more than two decades as a small business owner, building a career rooted in hospitality and service. His journey with Chick-fil-A began in 2015 when he became the local owner-operator of Chick-fil-A Port Jefferson Station, which was the first free-standing Chick-fil-A restaurant in New York state. He will continue to operate the Port Jefferson Station restaurant in addition to the new restaurant in Selden.

“As a longtime Suffolk County resident and the local Owner-Operator of Chick-fil-A Port Jefferson, I’m honored to continue serving my neighbors and making a positive impact in the community that I call home,” Abrahamsen said. “At Chick-fil-A Selden, my focus is on building a welcoming, service-driven culture and helping my Team Members grow — both personally and professionally.”

 

Chick-Fil-A in Selden. Photo by Heidi Sutton

According to the press release, Chick-fil-A business is built to add positive impact beyond profit, including giving back to local communities. Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators are empowered to support the neighborhoods they serve with a key focus on hunger, education, and specific community needs.

In celebration of the opening, Chick-fil-A, Inc. has donated $25,000 to Feeding America in honor of the new restaurant. These funds will be distributed to partners in the greater Long Island area to aid in the fight against hunger.

Abrahamsen’s restaurant will plan to participate in the Chick-fil-A Shared Table® program, an initiative that redirects surplus food from the restaurant to local soup kitchens, shelters, food banks and nonprofits in need. To date, more than 35 million meals have been created from Chick-fil-A Shared Table donations from over 2,300 Chick-fil-A restaurants throughout the U.S. and Canada.

In addition, Chick-fil-A Selden is recognizing 100 local heroes making an impact in the Selden area by providing them with free Chick-fil-A entrées for a year.

“With this opening and the impending opening of Aspen Dental next door it marks the redevelopment of two lots that were empty or barely used for well over a decade. Wishing Chick-fil-A success as they serve up delicious food and great hospitality to the community. Stop by and check them out!” said Town Clerk LaValle.

For the latest news and updates on Chick-fil-A Selden visit the local restaurant’s Facebook page. For more information about Chick-fil-A and stories about the Brand’s food, people and customers across the country, visit chick-fil-a.com.

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'Trumpets' by Lori Horowitz

Fragile ecosystems will be on view as Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket presents Lori Horowitz: Undergrowth, from April 3 to May 11.

Undergrowth is Lori Horowitz’s first solo exhibition at Gallery North. The exhibition features mixed media sculptures, reliefs, and photographs. Larger than life carnivorous pitcher plants erupt from a frame immersing the viewer in a unique perspective.

‘Saracenia study 1’ by Lori Horowitz

Inspired by the study of the pristine and precious environment surrounding her family home, Horowitz explores the cycles of nature and the social complexities that threaten the delicate balance. Her works transform photographs into three dimensional compositions in a physically demanding sculptural process that mirrors the competing natural and man- made forces of growth and decay. The resulting botanical and organic forms reflect the often-hidden discourse encompassing the literal and symbolic dangers that threaten a fragile ecosystem. Viewers are invited to explore their connection to nature and the impact of its survival on humanity.

Lori Horowitz is a New York based artist. In addition to her studio art practice, Horowitz has worked as an arts educator, scenic designer, curator and gallerist. Each role has brought new perspectives to the development of her work. Horowitz serves on the Board of Directors for the NY Society of Women Artists and Long Island Craft Guild. Her work has been featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions throughout the region.

The community is invited to an opening reception on Thursday, April 3, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. As a complement to the exhibition, Gallery North will host an ArTalk on Sunday, April 27 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Additional programming will include “Bringing the Woodland Home: Shade Gardening with Native Plants” a presentation by Kimberly Simmen of KMS Gardens on Sunday, April 13 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. The exhibition, reception, ArTalk and presentation will be free and open to the public.

This exhibition is generously sponsored the Field Family, Pet ER 24/7, Jefferson’s Ferry, and Suffolk County’s Department of Economic Development and Planning. 

For more information, call 631-751-2676 or visit www.gallerynorth.org.

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