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By Michael E. Russell

Michael E. Russell

My wife Barbara and I were lucky enough to spend the past week in Vermont. A respite like this gives one the chance to see what is occurring in the economy from a different perspective.

Sitting on the front porch in the morning I watched truckers hauling lumber and building supplies up and down the road. I decided to check out the nearby diner to hear what the local populace had to say. It sure sounded familiar: prices on the rise, shortage of employees and a real concern as to the direction the country was headed.

However, restaurants were full, many of whom were New Yorkers! Other tourists were taking in the beauty of southern Vermont.  So where are we?

The Federal Reserve is expected to raise short-term interest rates by three quarters of a percentage point later this month. This will lift the benchmark rate to approximately 2.5%. The probability of another one percentage point rate by the year’s end will hopefully cool down inflation which is approaching 9%.

The market has looked favorably on the current moves by the Federal Reserve that were done over the past two weeks. In the short-term there have been some widespread commodity-price declines and other signs of inflation slowing.

The bond market has responded in a positive way. The yield on the ten-year treasury has decreased by one quarter of a percentage point. It currently is at 3.1%, down from 3.1 in early June. This includes a 2% increase in the past week alone!

The S&P is currently projecting earnings for 2023 at under 16x earnings. The 2022 earnings is close to the same number. What this says is that the current 2022 projection on the earnings yield which equates to profits divided by the current index level is close to 6%, twice the ten-year treasury yield!

Looking at other indices is showing that that there may be opportunities in area other than the S&P 500, which most investors follow.

The S&P small cap 600 is currently priced at less than 12x estimated 2022 operating earnings. This a number that hasn’t been seen in a long time. This index and corresponding exchange traded funds may provide for portfolio growth.

As I have mentioned in past articles, the money center banks have provided dividend yields ins excess of 3%. These dividend yields have given support to their stock prices.  Bank of America, Goldman Sachs trade at near book value. Citigroup, which has improved its balance sheet by controlling expenses and increasing its net interest income, is trading at half its book value.

Even though short-term earnings are not looking robust due to a drop in mortgage origination fees and weaker investment banking opportunities, all dividends appear secure.

What is Warren Buffett up to? This week he added to holdings in Occidental Petroleum through Berkshire Hathaway. He now owns close to 20% of the company in a stake worth more than $20 billion.

By the way, Berkshire Hathaway is holding close to $100 billion in cash and cash derivates I expect Buffett to put several billion into picking up value stocks.  As an aside, the $100 billion in cash will give Buffett a profit in excess of $5 billion annually. NICE!!!

In summary, where are we? Not exactly sure. West Texas Crude Oil has dropped to $98 a barrel, some “experts” are projecting a drop to $65. We can only hope! Mortgage rates have dropped to 5.3% and the June jobs number beat expectations.

Boris Johnson is gone, Elon Musk says no to Twitter, Janet Yellen threatens China with sanctions, China threatens Taiwan, etc, etc. Now Monkey Pox!!! Can we just catch a break and enjoy the rest of the summer? Sure hope so. Until next time.

Michael E. Russell retired after 40 years working for various Wall Street firms. All recommendations being made here are not guaranteed and may incur a loss of principal. The opinions and investment recommendations expressed in the column are the author’s own. TBR News Media does not endorse any specific investment advice and urges investors to consult with their financial advisor. 

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The new website includes information about William Sidney Mount's home in Stony Brook.

The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation and grant recipient The Heckscher Museum of Art have announced the launch of the new website, Historic Artists’ Sites of Long Island (www.lihistoricartistssites.org), developed by Graphic Image Group, Inc. 

From the 19th century to present times, Long Island has held a special place in the creative imagination. From native landscape and genre painters William Sidney Mount and his family to modernist transplants like Arthur Dove and Helen Torr and the abstract expressionists who clustered on the East End, artists working in various styles and media, from traditional to experimental, have found common ground here.

The new website includes information about the Dove/Torr Cottage in Centerport

“Long Island has a proud place in American art history. Offering exceptional light and air, along with inspirational vistas, artists have always flocked here to live and work. This website links the studios and homes of some of America’s greatest artists over centuries. It offers a historic view into another aspect of our region’s rich creative and cultural heritage,” said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation in describing the importance of these locations, “I strongly urge you to explore these places and support the stewards who are dedicated to their oversight and promote their legacy.” 

The website is an online guide to discover the living and working environments of some of America’s most influential artists. Visitors to the site can explore these homes and studios, experience the surroundings that inspired the artists, and gain insights into their creative processes. Many of these locations are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Locations on the website include the Arthur Dove and Helen Torr Cottage in  Centerport — The Heckscher Museum of Art; Arts Center at Duck Creek (artist John Little) in East Hampton; D’Amico Institute (The Art Barge) (artists Victor D’Amico and Mabel Birckhead D’Amico) in Amagansett; Dan Flavin Art Institute at Dia Bridgehampton; and the Elaine de Kooning House in East Hampton; and the Leiber Museum (designer Judith Leiber and artist Gerson Leiber) in  East Hampton.

It also includes information about the LongHouse Reserve (artist Jack Lenor Larsen) in East Hampton; Pollock-Krasner House (Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner), East Hampton — Stony Brook University; Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran Studio in East Hampton; Watermill Center (artist Robert Wilson) in Water Mill and the Hawkins/Mount House in Stony Brook, home of William Sidney Mount — Long Island Museum.

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MUSICAL MOMENTS Catch a performance by the Just Sixties Band at Russ Savatt Park in Kings Park on June 15.
Ongoing

Huntington Summer Arts Festival

The 57th annual Huntington Summer Arts Festival continues at the Chapin Rainbow Stage at Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington this week with the Oran Etkin Open Arms Project on July 14, the High Kings on July 15, Eastline Theatre’s Shakespeare’s Two Gentlemen of Verona on July 17, Huntington Communit Band on July 20 and Lakecia Benjamin & Pursuance on July 21. All shows start at 8 p.m. Bring seating. Free. See children’s shows on page B20. For more information, visit www.huntingtonarts.org.

Thursday July 14

Northport Fireman’s Fair

The Northport Volunteer Fire Department will hold their 96th annual Fireman’s Fair today to July 16 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the fire department grounds on Steers Ave, off of Ocean Ave in Northport. The six day fair will have carnival rides by Blue Sky Amusements, festival food, carnival games and more. Questions? Call 261-7504.

Smithtown Library concert

The Dennis Cannataro Family Summer Concert Series returns to the Smithtown Main Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown tonight at 7:30 p.m. with One Step Ahead (Greatest Hits). Bring a chair or blanket for seating. For more information, call 360-2480 ext.150 after 3 p.m.

Harborside Concerts

The Village of Port Jefferson continues its free Harborside Concert series at the Show Mobile at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson with the Ed Travers Band at 8 p.m. Bring seating. For more information, call-473-4724 or visit www.portjeff.com.

Community Band concert

The Northport Community Band continues its summer concert series at the Robert W. Krueger Bandstand in Northport Village Park tonight with a concert titled Scenes from Childhood at 8:30 p.m. Bring seating. Rain location is Northport High School. Call 261-6972 or visit www.ncb59.org

Friday July 15

Northport Fireman’s Fair

See July 14 listing.

Country Hoedown at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind 5768 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Country Hoedown at the Gazebo from 6 to 9 p.m. Kick up your heels and come dance the night away! Country line dance lessons with Deanna will be held  from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 to 8 p.m. Southbound Band will perform from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and again from 8 to 9 p.m. Free admission. Call 846-2372 or visit www.eastwindlongisland.com.

Happenings on Main Street 

The Northport Arts Coalition presents a free concert by The Haymakers at the Northport Village Park Gazebo at the harbor at 7 p.m. as part of its Happenings on Main Street Series.  Vintage, retro, classic rave – all words you could use to describe the Haymakers’ style of music. This is country music with a punch so get ready to rock and roll! Bring seating. Call 827-6827 or visit www.northportarts.org.

Alex Torres in Concert

The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra in concert from 7 to 10 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.  Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the evening festivities. Tickets are $65. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Musical Moments in Kings Park

The Kings Park Civic Association kicks off its 2022 Musical Moments series tonight at Russ Savatt Park, 14 Main St., Kings Park at 7:30 p.m. with the Just Sixties Band (Sixties hits). Bring seating. Call 516-319-0672.

Boy Band Tribute

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 2022 Summer Concert Series with Larger Than Life — The Ultimate Boy Band Tribute at 8 p.m. Larger than life will take you back in time with the biggest 90s party with tributes to *NSync, Backstreet Boys, Boyz II Men, 98 Degrees and more!Tickets are $49. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Saturday July 16

Northport Fireman’s Fair

See July 14 listing.

Caleb Smith Park Hike

Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown for  What’s Doing the Blooming? Summer Edition from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Come search the Preserve for summer wildflowers. See if you can identify these warm weather treasures with the help of a field guide. Adults only. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 265-1054.

Huntington Folk Festival

The Huntington Folk Festival returns to the Chapin Rainbow Stage at Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Avenue, in Huntington from noon to 10 p.m. Now in its 16th year, the Festival will include a tribute to the late singer/songwriter Lois Morton. The event will conclude with “An Evening with Paula Cole and Sophie B. Hawkins.” Free. Bring seating. For a full schedule of events, visit www.fmsh.org.

Concert on the Lawn

The North Shore Community Band continues its annual Summer Concert Series with an outdoor concert at Wading River Congregational Church 2057 North Country Road, Wading River at 7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of Sousa, Gershwin, Glenn Miller, Sondheim, Disney, Broadway, Hollywood and patriotic favorites. Free. Bring seating. www.nscbli.org. 

Tribute to The Eagles

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its 2022 Summer Concert Series with an Eagles tribute with The Fast Lane, featuring the iconic “Hotel California,” the beautiful vocal harmonies of “Lying Eyes,” “Peaceful Easy Feeling” and much more! Tickets are $49. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

East End Trio in concert

Wildwood State Park, 790 Hulse Landing Rd, Wading River welcomes The East End Trio in concert at 7 p.m. Come enjoy songs you know by heart with music from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and 2000’s. All ages welcome. Bring your chair or blanket. $10 vehicle fee. Questions? Call 929-4314.

An Evening of Jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will welcome the Bill Crow Trio in concert at 7 p.m. Ticket holders are welcome to come at 6 p.m. to enjoy the guitar music of Steve Salerno in the Count Basic Garden where refreshments will be available. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, children 5 and under free. Call 751-1895 or visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Mahler Festival Orchestra in concert

The inaugural performance of the Mahler Festival Orchestra of Long Island will be held at St. James Roman Catholic Church, 429 Route 25A, East Setauket at 8 p.m. Artistic Director and orchestra founder, Eric. R. Stewart, will lead the elite ensemble of Long Island-based musicians in the performance of Gustav Mahler’s moving Symphony No. 9, arranged for chamber orchestra. Suggested donation: $20/$10 students/seniors. Questions? Email [email protected]

Sunday July 17

Huntington Independence Day

The Huntington Militia hosts a Huntington Independence Day event at the Arsenal Museum, 425 Park Ave., Huntington and Village Green from noon to 4 p.m. with a re-enactment of the 1776 events in the Town of Huntington. Musket and cannon drills, practice musket drills for children, period craft, cooking demonstrations and tours of the Arsenal. Free. Rain date is July 24. Call 223-8017 or visit www.huntingtonmilitia.com. 

Wind Down Sundays

The popular summer concert series continues at Hap’s historic Red Barn at Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket tonight with Eric Dubin & the Whiskey Crows  at 5:30 p.m. Bring seating. Call 689-6146 or visit www.frankmelvillepark.org.

Summer Concerts on the Green

Summer concerts are back in front of the Stony Brook Post Office at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main Street, Stony Brook from 7 to 9 p.m. every Sunday through Aug. 21, courtesy of the Ward Melville Heritage Organization. Tonight’s performance will be by The Rustlers. Free. Bring seating.  Call 751-2244 or visit wmho.org.

Monday July 18

TVHS lecture

The Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket at 7 p.m. with The Drafting of a Radical Idea – The Declaration of Independence. Guest speaker Tara Rider will explore how this 18th century document would become a significant landmark in the history of democracy, exerting influence not only over the United States, but globally. Moderated by Mari Irizarry, TVHS Director, the event will also be available via Zoom. $5 suggested donation. Register at www.tvhs.org.

Tuesday July 19

Huntington Manor Fireman’s Fair

Long Island’s largest Fireman’s Fair is held at the Henry L. Stimson Middle School, 401 Oakwood Rd., Huntington Station, and adjoining Peter Nelson Park today, July 20 and 21 from 6 to 11 p.m., July 22 from 6 p.m. to midnight and July 23 from 5 p.m. to midnight. (Parade on July 20 at 7:30 p.m.) Featuring amusement rides, games, food, music and  gambling. Fireworks every night at 9:30 p.m. P.O.P bracelets for the rides are $30. Questions? Call 427-1629, ext. 4.

Northport Harbor Family Nights

The Northport Chamber of Commerce presents Northport Harbor Family Nights from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Main Street will be closed to traffic from Gunther’s to Skippers to allow for a classic car chow, bounce houses, live music by the Charlie Kay Band and the NCJO Big Band, outdoor dining and more. Come join the fun! Call 754-3905.

Concerts at The Gazebo   

Enjoy Tuesday night concerts at The Gazebo, 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset through Aug. 30 at 7 p.m., courtesy of the Nesconset Chamber of Commerce. Tonight’s performance will by Radio Flashback.  Rain dates are the next day. Bring seating. Questions? Call 672-5197 or visit www.nesconsetchamber.org

Concerts in the Courtyard

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Road, Northport will host an outdoor concert in the courtyard featuring the Mary Lamont Band at 7 p.m. The “Queen of Long Island Country” returns to Northport Library to entertain you with traditional and contemporary country selections, as well as upbeat original songs. Rain date is July 20. No registration required. Call 261-6930.

Community Band concert

The Smithtown Community Band continues its 36th annual summer concert season at the Smithtown Historical Society’s Brush Barn, 239 E. Main St., Smithtown at 8 p.m. This year’s theme is American Pop Culture: A Journey Through Time featuring music attributed to popular books, movies, video games, television, advertising and Broadway shows of the 20th and 21st century. Free. Bring seating. Call 265-6768 for more info.

Wednesday July 20

Huntington Manor Fireman’s Fair

See July 19 listing.

An evening of Goat Yoga

Join the Smithtown Historical Society, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown for a 45 minute session of yoga with friendly, interactive goats from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and again from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m courtesy of  by Steppin’ Out Ponies and Petting Zoo. Tickets are $28 per person and all levels of yoga are welcome. Please bring a mat & towel. The first session will be open to children aged 7 to 17, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Registration required via Eventbrite. For more information, call 265-6768.

Summer Concert Wednesdays

The Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce continues its Summer Concert Wednesdays at the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber Train Car Park, Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 6 to 8 p.m. with One Step Ahead (Luau Night). Call 821-1313 or visit www.pjstchamber.com. 

Port Jefferson Sunset Concert

Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council presents Sunset Concerts at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. through Aug. 31. Tonight’s performance will be by Cole Fortier and Friends. Bring seating. Call 473-5220 or visit www.gpjac.org.

Thursday July 21

Huntington Manor Fireman’s Fair

See July 19 listing.

Smithtown Library concert

The Dennis Cannataro Family Summer Concert Series returns to the Smithtown Main Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown tonight at 7:30 p.m. with Petty Rumors featuring the music of Fleetwood Mac and Tom Petty. Bring a chair or blanket for seating. For more information, call 360-2480 ext.150 after 3 p.m.

Harborside Concerts

The Village of Port Jefferson continues its free Harborside Concert series at the Show Mobile at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson with Southbound at 8 p.m. Bring seating. For more information, call-473-4724 or visit www.portjeff.com.

Community Band concert

The Northport Community Band continues its summer concert series at the Robert W. Krueger Bandstand in Northport Village Park tonight with a concert titled Harbor Jams at 8:30 p.m. The Northport Community Jazz Orchestra will open. Bring seating. Rain location is Northport High School. Call 261-6972 or visit www.ncb59.org

Film

‘Uncharted’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a screening of Uncharted starring Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg on July 14 at 2 p.m. Open to all. Registration is required as seating is limited. Visit www.cplib.org or call 928-1212 to sign up.

‘Dream Horse’

The Village of Port Jefferson continues its Movies on the Harbor series at Harborfront Park, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson with a screeening of Dream Horse on July 19 at dusk. Rated PG. Rain date is the next evening. Bring seating. Free. Call 473-4724 or visit www.portjeff.com.

‘Woman in the Moon’

As part of its Anything But Silent series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will present a screening of Woman in the Moon (1929) on July 19 at 7 p.m With live theatre organ accompaniment by Ben Model. In Fritz Lang’s final silent epic, the legendary filmmaker spins a tale involving a wicked cartel of spies who co-opt an experimental mission to the moon in the hope of plundering the satellite’s vast stores of gold. Tickets are $17, $12 members. Call 423-7610.

Stony Brook Film Festival

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will present the 2022 Stony Brook Film Festival from July 21 to 30 featuring independent features, documentaries and shorts, question and answer sessions with filmmakers and receptions. Fee is $20 evening pass, $125 festival pass. To order, call 632-2787. For the film schedule, visit , ww.stonybrookfilmfestival.com. 

Theater

‘Every Brilliant Thing’

Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, in association with Response Crisis Center, presents the Long Island premiere of Every Brilliant Thing, a one-man show starring Jeffrey Sanzel, on the Second Stage Sundays at 3 p.m. from July 10 to Aug. 28.  You’re seven years old. Your mother is in the hospital. Your father said she’s “done something stupid.” So, you begin a list of everything that is truly wonderful about the world—everything worth living for. With audience members recruited to take on supporting roles, Every Brilliant Thing is a heart-wrenching, hilarious story of depression and the lengths we will go for those we love. All seats are $20. Fifty percent of the gross proceeds of this production will benefit Response Crisis Center. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B13.

‘On Your Feet!’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan from July 14 to Aug. 28. From their humble beginnings in Cuba, Emilio and Gloria Estefan came to America and broke through all barriers to become a crossover sensation at the very top of the pop music world. But just when they thought they had it all, they almost lost everything. On Your Feet! takes you behind the music and inside the real story of this record-making, and groundbreaking couple who, in the face of adversity, found a way to end up on their feet. Get ready to get on your feet, and dance to the smash hits “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “1-2-3,” “Live For Loving You,” “Conga,” and many more. Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Troilus and Cressida’

The Carriage House Players continues its annual Shakespeare Festival at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport with Troilus and Cressida from July 1 to 24 (excluding July 15 and 22) on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 7 p.m. Performances take place outdoors on stage in the courtyard, where the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture adds a touch of timeless charm and magic. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy before the show and bring your own lawn chair. Inclement weather cancels. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children ages 12 and under. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Spring Awakening’

Up next for Star Playhouse at Suffolk Y-JCC’s Stage 74, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack is Spring Awakening, the Tony Award-winning rock musical adaptation of the seminal play about the trials and tribulations of growing up, on July 30 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and on July 31 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $20, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 462-9800 x-136 or visit www.starplayhouse.com.

‘I Love You, You’re Perfect …’

The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents the hit musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change from Aug. 4 to Aug. 14. This hilarious revue pays tribute to those who have loved and lost, to those who have fallen on their face at the portal of romance, to those who have dared to ask, ‘Say, what are you doing Saturday night?’ Tickets are $45 adults, $40 seniors. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

*All phone numbers are in 631 area code unless noted.

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Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Cats present a free family concert at Heckscher Park in Huntington on July 19.
PROGRAMS

Summer Drop-In Workshop

Join the Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington for a Summer Drop-In Workshop every Thursday through Aug. 18 including July 14 and 21 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Create fun works of art in a variety of materials inspired by artwork in the Museum’s Collection and exhibitions. Each week’s project will be exciting and different. Programs will be held both in the Museum and in Heckscher Park. Fee is $10 per child, adults free, payable at the door and includes all art supplies and general admission to the museum. Call 380-3230 for more details.

National Circus Project

Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a performance by the National Circus Project on the Library’s front lawn on July 15 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a panoramic presentation of circus skills packed into a sensational comedy-variety show. The show features circus arts from around the world and lots of audience participation. Free and open to all. No registration necessary. Bring seating. Call 941-4080 for further information.

Pop-Up Saturday

Calling all animal lovers! The Ward Melville Heritage Organization continues its Pop-Up Saturdays at the Stony Brook Village Center’s Inner Court, 97 Main Street, Stony Brook Village on July 16 from 2 to 3 p.m. Sweetbriar Nature Center will bring birds of prey and touchable animals. Rain date is the following day. Free. Call 751-2244 or visit www.wmho.org for more information.

Candy Twisted Balloons

Part of Long Island State Parks Summer Entertainment, Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents The Candy Twisted Balloon Show, a combination of comedy, crazy magic, and audience participation, on July 16 at 2 p.m. You won’t want to miss the grand finale when Candy climbs inside the biggest balloon you have ever seen. Vehicle use fee: $10. For more information, call 269-4333.

BNL Summer Sundays

As part of its Summer Sunday series, Brookhaven National Laboratory is bringing science to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport on July 17 with a program titled SPACE from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join scientists from BNL as they discuss the wonders of the universe and take turns with hands-on experiences that show the different weights in different planetary gravities, explore craters of the moon, and more! Admission is free to the public until 2 p.m. Reservations are required by visiting www.bnl.gov/Sundays.

Summer Scavenger Hunt

Enjoy a lively scavenger hunt through Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park, searching for natural and crazy things on a unique scavenger checklist, on July 17 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Fun for the whole family! $4 per person, To register visit Eventbrite.com & search #NatureEdventure.

Crafts for Kids

As part of its summer program series, Frank Melville Memorial Park, 1 Old Field Road, Setauket presents Crafts for Kids at the Red Barn on July 19 at 11 a.m. Kids can make a bird house to take home. Free. No registration necessary. For more information, call 689-6146 or visit www.frankmelvillepark.org.

Family Concert

Lucy Kalantari & The Jazz Cats will present a free family concert at the Huntington Summer Arts Festival at Heckscher Park’s Chapin Rainbow Stage, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington on July 19 at 7 p.m. Frontwoman, songwriter and bandleader Lucy Kalantari engages her audience with interactive, jazz-scat-along play, while singing from her growing collection of foot-tapping songs highlighting the joys of life, community and resilience. Bring seating. Visit www.huntingtonarts.org.

Taiko Drums of Japan

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket presents Taiko Drums of Japan, on the front lawn on July 20 from 7 to 8 p.m. Ryu Shu Taiko introduces audiences to the traditional Japanese “Matsuri” (Festival) experience. This family-friendly interactive show presents traditional and contemporary Taiko drumming and Folk dance. Free and open to all. No registration necessary. Call 941-4080 for more information.

Toothy Tuesdays

Drop by the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor on Tuesdays in July for Toothy Tuesday, a shark tooth excavation workshop, from 2 to 4 p.m. Design and create a necklace or keychain featuring your fossil treasure. Admission + $10 participant. Call 367-3418 for more information.

FILM

‘Encanto’

St. James Chamber of Commerce invites the community to Deepwells Farm County Park, 497 Route 25A, St. James for a screening of Disney’s Encanto on the great lawn on July 14 at dusk. Come early at 7 p.m. for fun and games. Bring seating.  \\ Rain date is July 21. Call 631-584-8510 for further details.

‘Luca’

Join the Stony Brook University Seawolves for their 12th annual free summer outdoor movie night screening of Luca at Kenneth Lavalle Stadium, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on July 20 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bring seating. Presented by Team Ardolino/Realty Connect USA. Admission is free but tickets are required by visiting www.ardolino.com/summerevents.

THEATER

Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’

The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid from July 2 to July 24. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. All seats are $25. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org. 

Aria Saltini stars in Theatre Three’s Puss-In-Boots.
Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.

‘Puss-In-Boots’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a hilarious musical re-telling of Puss-In-Boots, the tale of a boy and his ingenious feline, from July 8 to July 30. When Christopher inherits his father’s clever cat, he sets out on an adventure that takes him to the palace of King Vexmus and beyond and learns that faith comes from within. $10 per person. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We’re in a Play!’

The Smithtown Center for the Performing Art presents Mo Willems’ Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We’re in Play! outdoors on the grounds of the Smithtown Historical Society. 239 E. Main St., Smithtown from July 9 to July 29. An elephant named Gerald and a pig named Piggie are best, best, “bestus” friends, but Gerald worries that something could go wrong that would end their friendship. Piggie is not worried at all. She’s even happier and more excited than usual. That’s because she and Gerald are invited to a party hosted by the Squirrelles, three singing squirrels who love to have a good time. And so begins a day when anything is possible. Tickets are $18 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org. See review in next week’s paper.

‘Junie B. Jones The Musical’

Children’s theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with Junie B. Jones The Musical from July 23 to Aug. 28. Sneak a peek into the “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal” of the outspoken and lovable Junie B. Jones! Based on the top selling children’s book series, this upbeat musical follows the spunky Junie as she navigates through the ups and downs of her first day of 1st grade. All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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The tip of the ‘wing’ of the Small Magellanic Cloud galaxy NASA photo

As part of its Summer Sunday series, Brookhaven National Laboratory is bringing science to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport on July 17 with a program titled SPACE from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join scientists from BNL as they discuss the wonders of the universe and take turns with hands-on experiences that show the different weights in different planetary gravities, explore craters of the moon, and more! Admission is free to the public until 2 p.m.

Visitors will have access to the grounds as well as exhibits in the Vanderbilt Mansion and Hall of Fishes marine museum. Seating for the scientific talks and Planetarium shows require reservations. Please click on any program segment below to reserve your seat.

10:00 am – “The Invisible Universe.” Scientist Steven Bellavia of Brookhaven Lab’s Collider-Accelerator Department will share his talk about the universe (45 minutes).

11:00 am – “Can We See the Flag on the Moon?” Scientist Steven Bellavia of Brookhaven Lab’s Collider-Accelerator Department will share his talk about the flag on the moon (45 minutes).

Noon – “One World, One Sky” Planetarium astronomy show (45 minutes). Elmo and Big Bird live in the United States and Hu Hu Zhu lives far away in China, but they discover they see the same stars at night.

1:00 pm – “A Guide to Galactic Cosmic Rays: Studying Space Particles at Brookhaven National Lab.” Scientist Jessica Gasparik of Brookhaven Lab’s NASA Space Radiation Laboratory will speak about galactic cosmic rays (45 minutes).

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James Caan in a scene from 'Thief.' Photo from CAC

The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will pay tribute to the legendary James Caan with a rare big-screen showing of Michael Mann’s “Thief” (1981), of one of his emblematic roles, on Saturday, July 16. A veteran screen actor known for his work in such films as “The Godfather,” “Misery” and “Elf”,  Can passed away on July 6 at the age of 82.

The contemporary American auteur Michael Mann’s bold artistic sensibility was already fully formed when he burst out of the gate with “Thief,” his debut feature. James Caan stars, in one of his most riveting performances, as a no-nonsense ex-con safecracker planning to leave the criminal world behind after one final diamond heist—but he discovers that escape is not as simple as he’d hoped. Finding hypnotic beauty in neon and rain-slick streets, sparks and steel, Thief effortlessly established the moody stylishness and tactile approach to action that would also define such later iconic entertainments from Mann as Miami Vice, Manhunter, and Heat. Mann used real thieves as technical advisors on the film and that Tangerine Dream soundtrack is a joy.  Also starring Tuesday Weld and Willie Nelson.

Tickets are $15, $10 members. To order tickets in advance, call 631-423-7610 or click here.

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Photo from TOB

The Town of Brookhaven will offer Hula Hooping classes at West Meadow Beach, Trustees Road, Stony Brook this summer. Classes are for beginners or the more experienced “hoopers”! Beginners will learn basic fundamentals to keep the hoop up while spinning and dancing in and out of their hoops. More experienced students will learn some advanced skills and tricks. Enjoy one of the many beautiful beaches in Brookhaven while having fun and burning calories! *Weather permitting*

Classes will be held on Wednesdays, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and Sept. 7 from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Fee is $40 per 6-week session. Pre-register by Monday, Aug. 1 by calling 631-363-5193.

 

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Photo from Long Island Cares Facebook

The Harry Chapin Food Bank has commissioned internationally acclaimed artist Susan Bahary to create a larger-than-life bronze bust of the advocate for a hunger-free Long Island and Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter, Harry Chapin. The bust will be unveiled on Friday, July 15 at a ceremony at Long Island Cares’ Hauppauge headquarters, 10 Davids Drive, at 10:30 a.m. Bahary named the piece “Story of a Life” after the Chapin song.

Long Island Cares has also created a commemorative brick-lined Chapin Legacy Walkway to celebrate Chapin’s 80th birth year and 50th anniversary of his million-selling single, “Taxi.” 

Photo from Wikipedia

“We are honoring the legacy of Harry Chapin and his vision for a hunger-free Long Island,” says Katherine M. Fritz, Chief Development and Communications Officer at Long Island Cares. “At the same time, we’re excited to have given our donors the opportunity to be recognized for their commitment to walking in Harry’s footsteps by helping their fellow Long Islanders.” 

For Bahary, being asked to sculpt Chapin was an honor that felt very close to her heart. In the 70s, through her high school years and early development an artist, Susan and her family lived in Huntington Bay, next door to Harry and Sandy Chapin and their kids. Bahary fondly recalls how Chapin generously offered his time to work with her brother, Gordon, who became a singer-songwriter and music producer in his own right, as well as encouraged her in her pursuit of fine art.

Bahary, who also sings, listens to music — mostly of the 70s — when she sculpts. When she sculpted Chapin, she listened primarily to his music. “The moment Harry’s face and expression seemed to come to life in clay was a very emotionally moving experience,” she said. “I wanted to capture his beautiful soul and spirit as best I could and a glimpse of him the way he’d look at a performance, at the height of his career. Yet, I hoped to capture not just Harry’s likeness but his kindness, love of life, and hope for humanity.”

Bahary chose the name for her sculpture, “Story of a Life,” after Chapin’s song to not only reinforces her subject’s gift to the world as a great storyteller but also her gift to him: “I was telling the story of his life in the art form I know.” 

Sandy Chapin and members of the Chapin family, along with Bahary, are set to attend the unveiling. The public is invited to attend. For more information, please call 631-582-3663.

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Jeffrey Sanzel in a scene from 'Every Brilliant Thing.' Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com

By Heidi Sutton

You’re seven years old. Your mother is in the hospital. Your father said she’s “done something stupid.”

Thus begins the remarkable one-man play, Every Brilliant Thing. Written by Duncan MacMillan with Jonny Donahoe, the story starts in 1973 as a young boy finds out his mother has attempted suicide. In response, he begins to make a list of everything brilliant about the world, everything worth living for — 1. Ice cream, 2. Water fights, 3. Staying up past your bedtime and being allowed to watch TV, 4. The color yellow, 5. Things with stripes. When his mother returns from the hospital, he leaves the list on her pillow in hopes it will help her heal. She corrects his spelling and gives it back to him. 

Jeffrey Sanzel in a scene from ‘Every Brilliant Thing.’ Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com

After his mother’s second suicide attempt ten years later, he brings the list out again and continues to add to it until it takes a life of its own. He leaves post-its all over the house in another attempt to reach out to her, to show her that life is truly worth living. When he falls in love with his future wife Sam, the list becomes a gift for her. When he struggles with his own depression, he rediscovers the list one final time until it reaches one million and helps him heal.

Now, in association with Response Crisis Center, the show heads to Theatre Three’s Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage for its Long Island premiere. Under the direction of Linda May, the show stars Theatre Three’s Executive Artistic Director Jeffrey Sanzel in an incredible performance.

The cabaret-style show recruits members of the audience to join Sanzel on stage to tell the story — the veterinarian who put his childhood dog Bark Twain to sleep — the character’s first experience with death; the father who prefers music over talking; and girlfriend Sam, who he meets in college.

Others participate from their seats  — his guidance counselor Mrs. Patterson, his favorite college professor — people who have made a profound difference in his life. Still others, when prompted, call out brilliant things from his growing list — 23. Mighty Mouse, 24. Spaghetti with meatballs, 25. Wearing a cape, 317. Stars Wars, 319. Laughing so hard you shoot milk out of your nose, 731. hammocks, 993. Having dessert as your main course.

Jeffrey Sanzel in a scene from ‘Every Brilliant Thing.’ Photo by Steve Ayle/Showbizshots.com

Sanzel’s performance is, for lack of a more fitting word, brilliant. His ability to improvise is impressive and his presentation is flawless. The audience, which he draws into the story, hangs on his every word from start to finish. The result is an intimate, funny, sad, emotional, heart-warming and cathartic experience that ends much too soon. 

While he works the room, Sanzel pauses often to addresses the audience about suicide prevention and depression:

“It’s important to talk about things — particulary things that are hardest to talk about.”

“It is common for children of suicides to blame themselves. It’s natural.”

“In order to live in the present we have to imagine a future that’s better than our past — because that’s what hope is.” 

And the final — “I have some advice for anyone contemplating suicide. It’s really simple advice. Don’t do it — things get better. They might not always get brilliant, but they get better.”

1092. Conversation, 2000. Coffee, 2005. Vinyl records, 9995. Falling in love, One Million. Listening to a record for the first time, turning it over in your hands, placing the needle down … and then sitting and listening while reading through the sleeve notes.

The list (and show) will change the way you see the world. Don’t miss this one.

Photo from Response Crisis Center

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Every Brilliant Thing every Sunday at 3 p.m. through Aug. 28. Running time is one hour with no intermission. All seats are $20 with 50% of the proceeds benefitting the Response Crisis Center. Staff members from the Center will be at each performance to answer questions and provide information. Audiences are encouraged to fill out their own “brilliant things” on provided Post-It notes in the lobby, which will be on display throughout the show’s run. For more information or to order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

CONTENT WARNING: Although the play balances the struggles of life while celebrating all that is “truly brilliant” in living each day, Every Brilliant Thing contains descriptions of depression, self-harm, and suicide. It is recommended that only audience members 14 and older attend. If you or somebody you know is struggling, call Response 24/7 at 631-751-7500 or the National Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

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