Children can learn about Animals in Winter at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery on March 5.
Pixabay photo
PROGRAMS
First Steps Into Nature
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Fun with Feathers for children ages 2 to 4 on Feb. 28 at 9:30 a.m. Sweetbriar’s experienced educators help open up the wonders of the natural world for children through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344
February Break at the Hatchery
Celebrate World Wildlife Day at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor on March 2 and March 3 with a snake craft and a Fact vs. Fiction game from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Animal Encounters on March 2 at 12:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Free with admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors and $5 children ages 3 to 12. www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768
Story & Craft with Nana Carol
The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on March 3 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008
Animals in Winter
As part of its Pollywog Adventures series, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents Animals in Winter on March 5 at 11 a.m. Children ages 2 to 5 will enjoy an activity, craft, story and feeding the hungry trout. $20 fee includes admission for the day for one child and one adult. Pre-registration required at www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768
Ways of Water
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program, Ways of Water, on March 6 at 10:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent/caregiver will enjoy short walks, story time, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. Reservations taken on www.eventbrite.com.
Skate into STEM
Enjoy a STEM takeover at the Rinx, Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson with the Long Island Explorium’s Skate into STEM: Celebrating 20 Years of Innovation event on March 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. featuring night of ice skating, pizza, and drinks in celebration of science, technology, engineering and math. $35 per person. To register, visit www.longislandexplorium.org.
FILM
A scene from ‘The Secret Garden’
‘The Secret Garden’
As part of its Cinema for Kids series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents The Secret Garden on March 2 at noon. Sweet, beautifully told story based on the classic story about a lonely orphan girl who goes to live with her uncle in a forbidding British manor house. There she finds friendship and happiness when she discovers a wonderous, deserted, secret garden that is brought back to life in her magical hands. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
THEATER
‘Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz’
Theatre Three, 423 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 19 to March 29 with a sensory friendly performance on March 2 at 11 a.m. Join them for an unforgettable trip down the Yellow Brick Road as Dorothy Gale is whisked away by a tornado to that magical land that lies just Over the Rainbow. Follow Dorothy and her friends the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Lion as they encounter challenges and celebrate friendship. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Frozen Jr’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport kicks off the new year with a production of Frozen Jr. from Jan. 25 to March 2. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
THE FINAL CURTAIN
Catch one of the last shows for ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport. The show closes on March 2. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Thursday Feb. 27
SBU Presidential Lecture
Best-selling author, influential political commentator and esteemed professor Eddie S. Glaude, Jr. will headline Stony Brook University’s upcoming Presidential Lecture called “A Conversation with Eddie S. Glaude, PhD” at the Charles B. Wang Center Theater, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 5 p.m. The event will include a Q&A, book signing, and reception to follow. Free. For more information, call 631-632-6310.
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. 631-751-0066
An Evening of Comedy
The Long Island Comedy Festival heads to The Mill House Inn, 284 Mill Road, Yaphank for dinner and a show from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy a three-course meal followed by a comedy show with Paul Anthony, Maria Walsh and John Zeigler. $100 per person, cash only. Reservations required by calling 631-345-0361.
Native American Drumming
All Souls Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Medication from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.
Friday Feb. 28
Next Chapter Book Talk
Award-winning author Kerriann Flanagan Brosky heads tothe Next Chapter book store, 204 New York Ave., Huntington at 7 p.m. Brosky will discuss her latest book, Padre Pio Daily Reflections, followed by a book signing. Books must be purchased at The Next Chapter in order to have them signed at the event. Questions? Call 631-482-5008.
WinterTide Concert
The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson presents award-winning guitarist and entertainer Toby Walker in concert from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of its WinterTide series.Free will donation. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and Greater Port Jeff-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council. 631-473-5220
Saturday March 1
Long Island Pet Expo
Suffolk County Community College, 1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood presents the Long Island Pet Expo today from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and March 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with fur flying entertainment, dog sporting competitions and educational programs designed for the whole family. The 100+ special exhibits will feature some of the hottest new products coming out often before they hit the retail shelves. Pets on leashes are always welcome, and several area rescue groups with adoptable pets will be on hand. Admission is $20 adults, $6 children ages 4-11, children ages 3 and under are free. For discount tickets and additional information, visit www.familypetshows.com.
Garden Club Workshop
The Shoreham-Wading River Garden Club invites the public to a free program atWading River Congregational Church, 2057 North Country Road, Wading River at 10:30 a.m. Join art photographer Anthony Graziano for “Floral Focus: Easy Phone Photography for Garden Lovers.” Learn how to go beyond basic snapshots and unlock the artistic potential of your phone camera. Admission is free and all are welcome.
Maple Sugaring Day
It’s back! Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket hosts its annual Maple Sugaring Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the maple sugaring process. Then stay for pancakes and hot cocoa (additional fee) and purchase some maple products to take home. Fee is $15 adults, $12 children and seniors. No registration required. For more information, call 631-689-8172.
Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The 15th annual Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at noon featuringnumerous bagpipe bands, floats and hundreds of marching community organizations. Led by Grand Marshal Susan Benjes, the parade steps off at the corner of Lou Avenue and Pulaski Road, continues down Main Street, turns onto Church Street, and ends down Old Dock Road at the William T. Rogers Middle School.
Atelier Art Show Reception
The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suites 6 & 9, St. James invites the community to the opening reception to its 4th annual Student Artists juried show from noon to 2 p.m.The exhibit, which runs through March 27, features the work of Middle and High School student artists in all visual arts except photography and video. 631-250-9009
LIM Lecture
Enjoy an illuminating lecture titled “Marching Forward, Looking Back: New York and the Continued Fight for Equal Rights” by Ashley Hopkins-Benton, Senior Historian and Curator at the New York State Museum at the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook at 1 p.m. Discover how New York has been an epicenter for movements like women’s suffrage, abolition, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental activism, moving us toward the nation’s founding promise of equality for all. Afterward, explore our two newest exhibitions about democracy in America and on LongIsland: Voices and Votes and Building the Ballot Box. The lecture is ncluded with museum admission. www.longislandmuseum.org.
Sunday March 2
Long Island Pet Expo
See March 1 listing.
Caumsett Hike
Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntingtonfor a 5-mile hike through the center section of the park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This moderately paced walk affords walkers the opportunity to relax, socialize, and enjoy the park’s beauty. $4 per person. Preregistration required by calling 631-423-1770.
Maple Sugaring Demonstration
Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Road, Yaphank hosts a Maple Sugaring tapping demonstrations at 10 a.m. and again at 11 a.m. Learn about the process of making syrup by helping drill and tap maple trees and hanging buckets to collect the sap. Enjoy a wagon ride on the“Syrup Express” to visit the farm animals.$15 per person ages 3 and up. To register, visit https://www.eventcreate.com/e/maplesugaring25. 631-852-4600
Maple Sugaring at Hoyt Farm
The annual, educational Maple Sugaring classes return to Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, 200 New Highway, Commack today and March 9 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event covers the history of maple sugaring, from its discovery by Native Americans to modern-day technique and includes a special interactive portion for younger participants to learn about tree anatomy, chlorophyll’s role in sap production, and photosynthesis in maple syrup creation. Tickets are $5 per person (cash only). Due to high demand, it is recommended that guests arrive by 1 p.m. to register. 631-543-7804.
Bryan Gallo in concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brookpresents a concert by Bryan Gallo from 3 to 4 p.m. The Long Island based singer-songwriter is inspired by both the sounds of alternative country-rock and wistful pop music The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org
Academy Awards Night Fundraiser
Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for its annual Academy Awards Night celebration at 5:30 p.m. Share a lovely evening featuring raffles, Oscar Bingo, and good company, all to support the Cinema Arts Centre. Dinner will be catered by Butera’s Restaurant, followed by dessert provided by Buttercooky Bakery along with a Red Carpet for selfies, a ballot prediction contest and raffle prizes. Tickets are $100 per person, $75 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Avalon Astronomy Night
The Observatories at Avalon Nature Preserve, 60 Shep Jones Lane, Stony Brook will be hosting a live observing session (weather permitting) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Using their telescopes, they will be providing both digital and visual views of interesting wintertime deep space objects along with the planets Venus, Jupiter and Mars. The event is free. Pre-registration is not required. **Access is only available from 25A / North Country due to the Harbor Road closure. 631-689-0619
Monday March 3
SHS Spring Lecture
Smithtown Historical Society kicks off their Spring Lecture series in the Frank Brush Barn, 211 East Main St., Smithtown with “The Battle of Long Island and the British Occupation” at 7 p.m. This lecture, given by historian Bill Bleyer, delves into the pivotal Battle of Long Island — the largest engagement of the American Revolution — where a significant defeat nearly led to the collapse of the Continental Army in 1776. No registration necessary. Free, donations appreciated. 631-265-6768
Bruce Vilanch
Bruce Vilanch heads to the CAC
As an exclusive post-Academy Awards treat, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington welcomes the one and only Bruce Vilanch — the two-time Emmy Award winning Comedy Writer for 25 Academy Award spectacles — at 7:30 p.m. After a screening of the hilarious and touching documentary about his life and career, Get Bruce!, Vilanch will help dissect the Oscar show of the night before and discuss his new, insider memoir, It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time. Tickets are $28 per person, $22 for members and includes the screening, interview with audience Q&A, and book signing. www.cinemaartscentre.org
CAC Movie Trivia Night
Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a Movie Trivia Night at 8 p.m. Try to answer 50 questions based all around film, actors and actresses, awards, and everything else associated with the world of film. Challenge like-minded film fans in a battle of wits for cash and other prizes. You can form teams, so bring some friends and work together. Feel free to come alone and play solo as well! Hosted by Dan French. Tickets are $11 per person, $7 members at cinemaartscentre.org.
Tuesday March 4
NSJC Social Club event
North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert featuring singer and entertainer Scotto at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737
Wednesday March 5
Classic Film Lecture
Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a Classic Film Lecture on The Wizard of Oz from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Discover how this classic movie was filmed and enjoy movie highlights, along with a memorabilia and book display. Hear about the “tricks of the trade” used by the filmmakers and learn how the movie was cast. Presented by Film Historian Lawrence Wolff. Open to all Suffolk County residents. Reserve your spot at emmaclark.org/programs.
LRHS Book Talk
Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society, 328 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma welcomes Michael R. Ebert author of “The Lake of Legends,” for a book talk at 7 p.m. Coffee and cake will be served. Free. No registration necessary. For more information, call 631-467-3152.
Thursday March 6
Thankful Thursdays
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Litte Neck Road, Centerport continues its Thankful Thursdays series with a free family-friendly planetarium show at 7 p.m. After the show, they will open the observatory to the public and an astronomy educator will invite you to look through a telescope at the night sky (weather permitting). Recommended for ages 8 and up. For complimentary tickets, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Film
‘Bike Vessel’
The Indie Lens Pop-Up series kicks off with a screening of Bike Vessel by Eric D. Seals at the First United Methodist Church 603 Main St., Port Jefferson on Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. In this portrait of familial love, father Donnie Seals Sr. undergoes a transformation after several medical crises and, at age 70, embarks on a long-distance cycling trip with his son. A panel discussing the health, social and infrastructure issues raised by the film with a cardiologist, a representative from a safe transportation organization and a librarian from Port Jefferson Free Library will follow. Free but registration is required by visiting www.gpjac.org.
David Lynch Tribute
In memory of legendary director David Lynch, who passed away on Jan. 15 at the age of 78, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will be screening a selection of his most iconic films including Lost Highway on March 1 at 7 p.m, and A Straight Story on March 29 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $16, $10 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.
‘Geraldine Ferraro: Paving the Way’
The LongIslandMuseum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook and the Greater Port Jefferson Arts Council present a screening of ‘Geraldine Ferraro: Paving the Way’ at the museum on March 4 at 7 p.m. Enjoy an inspiring film about Geraldine Ferraro’s historic Vice-Presidential nomination, and the first full profile of the trailblazing woman who helped change the face of American politics forever, followed by a talk from Donna Zaccaro, the daughter of Ferraro and the film’s director and producer. Admission is free; preregistration is preferred. Register Here
‘Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter’
The Port Jefferson Documentary Series kicks off its spring season at First United Methodist Church, 603 Main St., Port Jefferson with Shaking It Up: The Life and Times of Liz Carpenter on March 6 at 7 p.m. The film explores the story of the eponymous woman who was witness to and involved in some of the most historically significant moments of the 20th century, as among her many roles, she was the first female executive assistant to a vice president for Lyndon B. Johnson and then press secretary for Lady Bird Johnson. A conversation with director Abby Ginzberg will follow. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.
‘American Graffiti’
As part of its Reel 1970s series, the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen American Graffiti on March 6 at 7:30 p.m.An enduring classic, American Graffiti celebrates an America of the early 1960s, where teenagers cruise the streets in hot rods and rock and roll tops the music charts. A story of coming-of-age, it remains one of the most successful films in history.Hosted by film historian Glenn Andreiev. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org
Theater
‘(mostly) True Things’
The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents a (mostly) True Things Storytelling Show on March 1 at 7 p.m. Join them for a compelling evening of true stories – with a twist. Four creative people from the Long Island community will tell true, funny, heartfelt stories about an experience from their own life on the theme Lost and Found. But there is a game in the show as well. Some of the stories include subtle little lies. The audience gets to question the storytellers, then votes for the person they think told it completely straight. Featuring stories by Arthur Frischman, Liz Gannon Graydon, Cathy Salit, Pete Lotus Arevelo, and Jude Treder-Wolff. Tickets are $20 at www.eventbrite.com, $25 at the door (cash only).
‘Heartbreak Hotel’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Heartbreak Hotel from Jan. 16 to March 2. The tribute to Elvis takes a closer look at the musical icon whose impact shaped the history of rock and roll as well as popular culture following him from his early days to his rise to become “The King of Rock and Roll.” Featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs.To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
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 14 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. See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for over 20 years. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Ring of Fire’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cashcomes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. Ring of Fire captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. His life story is told through the songs he composed, recorded, and shared with the world. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Waitress The Musical’
Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, Waitress 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 visit www.engemantheater.com.
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 to the end of April. 631-802-2160
Vendors Wanted
◆ Sound Beach Civic Association seeks vendors for its “Out of This World” Kids Day on June 1, from 11 a.m.to 3 p.m. on New York Avenue in Sound Beach—a free event celebrating children and their uniqueness. Craft/retail vendors, vendors providing only information or kids activities, food trucks, and non-profits should call 631-744-6952 or email [email protected].
◆ Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket seeks vendors for its popularEaster Egg Hunts on April 19 and April 20. Fee is $55 for one day, $90 for two days for a 10’ by 10’ spot. For more information, call 631-689-8172 or email [email protected]
CALENDAR DEADLINEis 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.
Irish eyes will be smiling as the 15th annual Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off on Saturday, March 1 at noon featuringnumerous bagpipe bands, floats and hundreds of marching community organizations. It is the first of more than two dozen St. Patrick’s Day parades on Long Island in the coming weeks.
This year’s Grand Marshal Susan Benjes, who has made great contributions to the Kings Park community, will lead the festivities.
The parade steps off at the corner of Lou Avenue and Pulaski Road, continues down Main Street, turns onto Church Street, and ends down Old Dock Road at the William T. Rogers Middle School.
Irish pride continues on the North Shore with a St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Huntington Village on Sunday, March 9; on Saturday, March 15 in St. James; on Sunday March 16 in Rocky Point/Miller Place and Farmingdale; and on Sunday, March 23 in Ronkonkoma.
Oswald needs a home! Photo from Smithtown Animal Shelter
Oswald needs a home! Photo from Smithtown Animal Shelter
Update: The Smithtown Animal Shelter reported on Feb 28 that Oswald has been adopted! Happy life sweet boy!
Adopt Oswald!
This week’s shelter pet is Oswald, a healthy white and black domestic (male) rabbit that was brought to the Smithtown Animal Shelter as a stray. Sadly, Oswald and several other bunnies were found abandoned in cold winter temperatures. Despite this heartbreak, he has overcome his rough start with confidence and charm. His captivating personality suits his majestic good looks.
This inquisitive and adventurous boy isn’t shy about expressing his likes and dislikes, and once he trusts you, he can be incredibly affectionate. Oswald is also litter trained, making him a wonderful companion for a loving home. He would thrive in a spacious environment where he can run, explore, and stretch his legs—small cages simply won’t do for this handsome fellow!
Let’s find Oswald the forever home he deserves, where he’ll be cherished as part of a caring family.
If you are interested in meeting Oswald, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in the shelter’s Meet and Greet room.
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.
Please note: The Smithtown Animal Shelter primarily accommodates dogs and cats, with the ability to assist only one exotic pet at a time.
'Parallax (Candles)' by Berenice Abbott, 1951, Gelatin silver print. Gift of Mr. Morton Brozinsky.
Currently on view at the Heckscher Museum of Art in Huntington is Embracing the Parallax: Berenice Abbott and Elizabeth McCausland. The exhibition, which runs through March 30, features twenty-two gelatin silver prints from the collection with a focus on photographs from the important Changing New York series of the 1930s.
The celebrated photobook Changing New York (1939) was a collaboration between photographer Berenice Abbott (1898–1991) and her lifelong romantic partner, art critic and writer Elizabeth McCausland (1899–1965). Although recognized by art historians as a pivotal text of documentary photography, the published product was radically different from what the two women had envisioned.
‘Newsstand (32nd and Third Avenue)’ by Berenice Abbot, 1935. Gelatin silver print
“Abbott and McCausland wanted to redefine documentary photography’s function by examining transformation through the lens of a rapidly modernizing New York City. Instead, their publisher diluted their message, producing a tourist guidebook for visitors to the 1939 New York World’s Fair,” explained Jessica Rosen, Curatorial Assistant, who organized the exhibition.
Embracing the Parallax offers a new understanding of the women’s partnership by reuniting several of Abbott’s photographs with portions of McCausland’s original text.
The word parallax refers to an optical phenomenon where the position of an object appears to shift when observed from different viewpoints—whether it be a shift between the camera’s viewfinder and lens, or a shift in one’s perspective.
Rather than simply documenting modernization from the perspective of aesthetic shifts, Abbott and McCausland intended to capture the invisible social, economic, and political factors that catalyzed these changes in the built environment. They believed that documentary photography was a tool to initiate dialogue and foster civic responsibility.
“We cannot go on just looking at things on the surface,” Abbott said. “Real things today are conflict, contradictions, warfare, unbalance, lack of order, lack of reason—contrasts in a rapidly changing civilization.” Abbott and McCausland’s philosophy of photography demands that we relearn how to see.
As part of the Heckscher’s 2025 Pride initiative, this exhibition raises questions about the politics of visibility and invisibility by examining Abbott’s and McCausland’s intellectual partnership and romantic relationship. Abbott and McCausland’s collaborative projects demonstrate how documentary photography can be used as a tool to foster civic responsibility by exposing the invisible factors that shape our world.
Sponsored by Susan Van Scoy, Ph.D., Brian Katz & Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP.This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
About The Heckscher Museum of Art
Located at 2 Prime Avenue in Huntington, The Heckscher Museum of Art is in its second century as a source of art and inspiration on Long Island. Founded by philanthropists Anna and August Heckscher in 1920, the Museum’s collection comprises 2,300 artworks spanning the nineteenth century to the present. The Museum is committed to growing the collection to develop public awareness for the artists whose careers and life experiences can broaden our understanding of the past, foster community connections to the present, and create diverse possibilities for the future.
Located in scenic Heckscher Park in Huntington, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Continuing the legacy of the founders, free admission to the Museum for 2025 is supported through a generous grant from Bank of America. For more information, visit Heckscher.org.
Stony Brook University Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) has received Level 1 Accreditation for Geriatric Emergency Care by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), one of only two hospitals in Suffolk County to achieve this status.
“Adults aged 65 and older represent one of the largest populations seeking emergency care here on Long Island,” says William A. Wertheim, MD, MBA, Executive Vice President, Stony Brook Medicine. “We are proud of our team’s persistent efforts to provide high-quality geriatric care and promote healthy aging throughout the community.”
“This designation shows Stony Brook Medicine’s commitment to preserving the independence and dignity of seniors on Long Island by providing the latest treatments, comprehensive services and improved patient outcomes,” says Carol Gomes, chief executive officer of Stony Brook University Hospital.
Hospitals earning a Level One Gold accreditation deliver the highest-quality, person-centered care, within the ED and throughout the institution, to older adults in their community, through geriatric-specific initiatives tied to policies, guidelines, procedures, and staffing.
Data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey shows the senior citizens population is continuing to grow on Long Island. Between 2019 and 2023, an estimated 36.9% of total households included one individual who was 65 or older in Suffolk County, an increase of 3.4% compared to the five-year period ending 2018. The median age in the county, 42 years, is 10 percent higher than the national average.
Stony Brook’s ED has developed a number of policies, standards and evidence-based practices with an emphasis on delivering age-appropriate care. Some of these initiatives include comprehensive fall assessment and prevention protocols, pain management focused on geriatric-specific pain control measures and alternatives to minimize use of urinary catheters. In addition, the ED promotes access to nutrition 24/7 for older adults, has developed standardized discharge protocols addressing age-specific communication needs and has limited the use of physical restraints by incorporating trained companions/sitters.
The Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University expands the institution’s mission of providing seniors with the opportunity to live healthy, fulfilling lives. In 2023, the Stony Brook Center for Healthy Aging (CHA) was created to develop a better understanding of the biology, physiology, sociology and psychology of aging through research and innovation. Bringing together Stony Brook researchers conducting studies related to aging, the mission of the CHA is to improve methods for earlier interventions so seniors can age in their own homes and with a high quality of life. It also aims to develop new treatments – including potentially utilizing robots – to ensure Long Island’s seniors receive the highest quality care.
About Stony Brook University Hospital:
Stony Brook University Hospital (SBUH) is Long Island’s premier academic health center. With 624 beds, SBUH serves as the region’s only tertiary care center and Regional Trauma Center, and is home to the Stony Brook University Heart Institute, Stony Brook University Cancer Center, Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and Stony Brook University Neurosciences Institute. SBUH also encompasses Suffolk County’s only Level 4 Regional Perinatal Center, state-designated AIDS Center, state-designated Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program, state-designated Burn Center, the Christopher Pendergast ALS Center of Excellence, and Kidney Transplant Center. It is home of the nation’s first Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center. To learn more, visit www.stonybrookmedicine.edu/sbuh.
Only 13 percent of U.S. drivers indicated they’d feel safe riding in a self-driving or autonomous vehicle (AV). Photo courtesy of AAA
Drivers say they want better vehicle safety systems over self-driving cars.
Americans grew slightly less wary of self-driving vehicles over the past year, but an overwhelming majority still don’t trust riding in one, according to the latest AAA survey on autonomous vehicles.
Just 13 percent of U.S. drivers indicated they’d feel safe riding in a self-driving or autonomous vehicle (AV). That’s up from last year, when nine percent of drivers said they’d be comfortable. Despite the slight increase, 6 in 10 drivers still report being afraid to get into a vehicle that drives itself.
For drivers, enhancing vehicle safety systems remains the priority — 78 percent of survey respondents listed advancements in safety systems as a top vehicle technology initiative. In contrast, the development of self-driving vehicles is a low priority as only 13 percent of drivers expressed interest in AV technology.
“Most drivers are interested in advanced technology to enhance safety but still want to maintain control over their vehicles,” said Robert Sinclair of AAA Northeast. “When it comes to gaining consumer trust in self-driving vehicles, automakers face a long road ahead and as vehicle technology continues to evolve, educating consumers on safety standards is paramount.”
Robotaxis — self-driving vehicles used for taxi and ride-hail services — operate in several major cities. AAA’s survey found that 74 percent of drivers were aware of robotaxis, but more than half (53 percent) said they would choose not to ride in one.
Interest in advanced driver assistance features (ADAS) continues to remain high. The survey found that 64 percent of U.S. drivers would “definitely” or “probably” want Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) on their next vehicle, 62 percent would want Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking, and 59 percent would want Lane Keeping Assistance. AAA advocates for a standard body of names for these systems to accurately describe their capabilities, limitations and to reduce consumer confusion.
AAA has conducted various tests to determine if the technology performs as expected. Research released by AAA in October 2024 showed significant AEB advancements, particularly at speeds up to 35 mph.
AAA Northeast is a not-for-profit auto club with offices in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, New Hampshire and New York, providing more than 6.5 million local AAA members with travel, insurance, finance and auto-related services.
After more than 80 years in business, Joann Fabrics and Crafts has announced that it will be closing all of its stores after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for a second time. The announcement was made on Feb. 24.
A Joann spokesperson said in a statement that it “made every possible effort to pursue a more favorable outcome that would keep the company in business.” Going-out-of-business sales will begin immediately at their brick-and -mortar locations including Bohemia and West Babylon and on their website.
“We deeply appreciate our dedicated team members, our customers and communities across the nation for their unwavering support for more than 80 years,” the company said.
Best-selling author, influential political commentator and esteemed professor Eddie S. Glaude, Jr. will headline Stony Brook University’s upcoming Presidential Lecture called “A Conversation with Eddie S. Glaude, PhD” at the Charles B. Wang Center Theater, 100 Nicolls Road Stony Brook on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 5 p.m.
Glaude will join Provost Carl Lejuez for this inspiring conversation highlighting the importance of fostering environments that encourage thoughtful and systematic engagement about the pressing issues of our time.
Professor Glaude Jr.’s research and expertise explore the intricate dynamics of the American racial experience. His writings examine Black communities, the complexities of race in the United States and the pressing challenges facing American democracy. From 2009 to 2023, Professor Glaude served as chair of the Department of African American Studies at Princeton University. His latest book is We Are the Leaders We Have Been Looking For.
In addition to the lecture, the event will include a Q&A, book signing, and reception to follow.
This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited.For more information, call 631-632-6310.
A pod of Humpback whales swim together on their annual migration to northern waters. Photo by Corey Ford
Do whales “speak” in a similar way that human beings do? Stony Brook University Postdoctoral Fellow Mason Youngblood from the university’s Institute for Advanced Computational Science has published a new study in Science Advances that reveals that whale communication is not just complex—it’s remarkably efficient, following the same linguistic principles that shape human speech.
By analyzing vocal sequences from 16 whale species and comparing them with 51 human languages, Dr. Youngblood found that many whales “compress” their calls to maximize efficiency, similarly to how humans do when speaking. Eleven species exhibit Menzerath’s law, meaning longer vocal sequences are made up of shorter elements, and some—like humpback and blue whales—also follow Zipf’s law of abbreviation, where frequently used sounds are shorter. This suggests that much like humans, whales have evolved ways to streamline their communication, potentially saving energy and avoiding predators.
But not all whales play by the same rules, according to Dr. Youngblood. Some dolphin species, like those in the Cephalorhynchus genus, show no evidence of these efficiency patterns—possibly because they rely on stealthy, ultrasonic sounds to evade predators rather than optimize timing. Even within species, efficiency varies: killer whales compress their call sequences but not the smaller elements inside them. These findings suggest that the push for efficient communication is not universal, but shaped by a mix of biology, behavior, and environment. More broadly, they highlight just how much there still is to learn about the complex communication systems of whales.
“I find it fascinating that communication evolves in similar ways across species, even when the purpose is wildly different“, said Dr. Youngblood. “Humpback and bowhead whales are thought to sing to attract mates, dolphins and killer whales use calls to coordinate with one another, and sperm whales produce clicks to communicate clan identity. Yet, despite these differences, many of their vocal sequences show the same efficiency patterns found in human language—suggesting that the drive to communicate with less effort is widespread in animals.”
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