Elected officials and community members, above, stand by a table of donations. Photo by Raymond Janis
By Raymond Janis
Last week, Long Island leaders and community members met in Huntington to announce the Long Island-Ukrainian Emergency Response Drive, a collection to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
Dr. David Buchin, right, and U. S. Rep. Tom Suozzi. Photo by Raymond Janis
The gathering was held outside the offices of Dr. David Buchin, director of bariatric surgery at Huntington Hospital, and Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-Centerport), vice chair of the Committee on Health, who both share a business address. Buchin, an immigrant from the former Soviet bloc nation Uzbekistan, says donation drives such as these will help to alleviate the sufferings of Ukrainians.
“The horrors in the Ukraine, I mean we all see it,” Buchin said. “It breaks my heart like it does for all of us. We must do something to help them all. The hospitals are full, their supplies are low, so we’ve created this Long Island-Ukrainian Emergency Response Drive. We’re calling on everyone to help, anything that can help the Ukrainian people, like blankets, sleeping bags, medical supplies and first aid.”
Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY3) was present for the announcement. He applauded the altruism of ordinary Americans doing their part to support Ukraine. He also emphasized the dangers of factionalism amid so much uncertainty abroad.
“Taking action like this to give people an opportunity to make a contribution is a great way to feel that we’re doing something, but we’ve all got to do more,” he said. “We have to hold together. We have to keep Democrats and Republicans holding together. We have to follow the old idea that partisanship stops at the water’s edge. We have to all hold together like we are today.”
Bontempi described growing up in Sweden, a country now endangered by the war. She fears the conflict may spill over into Swedish territory and asked for immediate support.
“My family, I speak to them every day, is very frightened,” Bontempi said. “We need to all be very, very concerned about what this madman [Russian President Vladimir Putin] is doing. I urge everyone to please talk to friends, neighbors [to] donate items. It needs to happen now — not in a week, now. People need help right now.”
Town of Huntington officials praised this public expression of solidarity and humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine. Town Councilman Sal Ferro (R) said he believes that Americans and Ukrainians are united under a common purpose, likening this local initiative with the cause of the Ukrainian resistance.
“Every little bit that we do can make a difference,” he said. “We can show the human side, why we live in a free country, why we live in a democracy. That’s what they’re fighting for in Ukraine: to stay free.”
Huntington Town Clerk Andy Raia (R) discussed his own Ukrainian roots. He said his relatives chose to remain in Ukraine to support the war effort and encouraged Long Islanders to do the same.
“The time to act is now,” Raia said. “It was really yesterday, but we need to do more to ensure that Europe stays stable, that democracies around the world are allowed to flourish. This is just a small token of what we need to do to ensure that the fight continues in Ukraine.”
For those seeking to donate, the Long Island-Ukrainian Emergency Response Drive is establishing repositories throughout the Island. Buchin’s and Bontempi’s offices, located at 224 Wall St in Huntington, collected items until the end of the day March 4, and the donations were delivered to the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge.
Town of Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth is urging all who venture out on Huntington’s waterways to register for a free NYS BoatingSafety Certification Course offered under the Town’s Victoria Gaines Boating Safety Program this March and May.
“It is our individual responsibility to prevent avoidable tragedies on the water,” said Supervisor Ed Smyth. “Whether you’re captaining a boat, a passenger, or operate a non-motorized water craft, everyone should be prepared to enjoy Huntington waters safely.”
The Town of Huntington offers free Boating Safety Classes in March and May. Attendees who register, attend the full 8-hour course, and pass the test will receive a NYS Boating Safety credential issued by NYS Parks. Questions can be directed to the Harbormaster’s office at (631) 351-3255. Adults and children (ages 10 & up) are welcome to register for the course online: huntingtonny.gov/boater-safety
2022 COURSE DATES OFFERED:
Huntington Town Hall, 100 Main Street, Town Board Room, Huntington
Monday & Tuesday, March 7 & 8, 2022 (Must attend both dates)
5:00pm-9:00pm both nights. 8 hours of course instruction total.
For the month of March, the Reboli Center for Art & History in Stony Brook’s featured artisan is potter Hannah Niswonger.
Artist Hannah Niswonger
“Hannah Niswonger’s whimsical work is so striking, colorful, cheerful and unique, we’re thrilled to welcome her as the Reboli Center’s March Artisan. We’re sure everyone will be delighted by her creative mix of vibrant designs and realistic animal portraits in her pottery. They are so adorable and colorful that they make you feel so happy,” said Lois Reboli, president and a founder of The Reboli Center.
Niswonger fell in love with clay while in college at Wesleyan in Middletown, Connecticut, where she earned a BA in studio art. Hannah received a MFA in ceramic sculpture from Alfred University in Alfred, New York. She is currently teaching at Massachusetts College of Art and Design, and has taught courses in ceramics at Harvard University, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. In addition, Hannah frequently teaches sculpture classes. She gives workshops nationally, as well as exhibiting in galleries throughout the United States. Hannah also participates in juried craft shows, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art Show, the Smithsonian Craft Show and CraftBoston. A resident of Melrose, Massachusetts, she lives there with her husband, three children, one dog and two rabbits.
Plates designed by Hannah Niswonger
According to Hannah, “I build functional pots out of white stoneware. My tools are simple: a knife, a serrated metal rib, a sponge, a brush. All of my work is hand-built from slabs of clay. I love working with slabs like fabric; the pots are sewn together, scored along the edges, nipped and tucked together to make rounded forms from sheets of clay. Using a Chinese calligraphy brush, I paint bone dry pots with under-glaze stains, which act like an ink wash or watercolors on the absorbent surface of the clay. I scratch and carve into the drawings, adding and removing details. The pin tool is both pencil and eraser, adding white to the drawing. I use wax to create motifs that are reminiscent of printed patterns.”
In addition to creating functional pottery of plates, cups, bowls, teapots, serving pieces with images of animals, birds, and fish, Hannah also makes prints, drawings, sculpture and tile pieces. “I love developing new patterns and strategies for adding layers of image and color to clay. This has allowed me to bring printmaking into the ceramic studio. Pattern and color anchor my animals to the pots. They serve as frames, and backgrounds, so that the animals exist in their own narrow space around the pots,” added Hannah.
The Reboli Center is located at 64 Main Street in Stony Brook, and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, please call 631-751-7707.
Starting the day with the first six goals, the Stony Brook women’s lacrosse team quickly made its presence felt on Feb. 27 against Ivy League foe Dartmouth.
Siobhan Rafferty had a first-quarter hat trick as part of her five-goal day, and the No. 4 Seawolves were off and running en route to their 20-3 victory in front of 1,040 fans at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium.
Rafferty and Kailyn Hart went back to back inside of 20 seconds to get the offense up and running, and then three goals in a 90 second span, two from Rafferty, made it 6-0 in the first quarter. After Dartmouth got one back a woman up, the Seawolves rattled off five in a row, three of which coming from Hart, to go up 11-1 at the 10:48 mark of the second quarter. Hart also finished the day with a five-spot in the goal column.
Stony Brook pitched a second-half shutout, scoring all eight in the final 30 minutes of action. Molly LaForge and Alexandra Fusco each recorded their first collegiate tallies, with Fusco scoring both in the final frame for the Seawolves. With the win, the Seawolves find a groove ahead of a pair of Top 10 matchups ahead in the next two weeks.
The cast of the 23rd annual Festival of One Act Plays
A scene from 'Confessions of a Successful Playwright' with Stephen Wangner and Tamralynn Dorsa
A scene from 'The Turn Around' with Antoine Jones and Steve Ayle
A scene from 'The Turn Around' with Antoine Jones and Steve Ayle
A scene from 'Benign Departures' by Mary Ellin Kurtz and Tamralynn Dorsa
A scene from 'Benign Departures' by Mary Ellin Kurtz and Tamralynn Dorsa
A scene from 'The Beat Goes On' with Sari Feldman and Steve Ayle
The cast of 'The Beat Goes On'
A scene from 'Bad China' with Brittany Lacey and Evan Teich
A scene from 'Bad China' with Brittany Lacey and Steven Uihlein
A scene from 'Play Date' with Bradlee Bing, Stephen Wangner and Eric J. Hughes
A scene from 'Play Date' with Bradlee Bing and Eric J. Hughes
By Heidi Sutton
After a two-year delay because of COVID, the Festival of One-Act Plays returns to Theatre Three in all its glory. Now in its 23rd year, the One-Acts are a wonderful opportunity for audiences to watch actors hone their craft up close and personal on the theater’s Second Stage. The festival opened last Sunday for a 10-performance run.
Festival founder and Executive Artistic Director Jeffrey Sanzel was tasked with selecting six original works from over 500 submissions and then selected an uber talented cast to tell their story. Fantastic costumes designed by Jason Allyn (with special mention to The Beat Goes On) tie it all together resulting in an incredible evening of live theater.
“For the first time on any stage, these works come to life,” said Sanzel. “How challenging and exciting to present a unique universe in the space of no more than 25 minutes—and often as short as ten…” in a two-hour marathon in the cozy setting of The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage, a space so intimate that “there is no wall. There is no division.”
The show opens with Philip Darg’s Confessions of a Successful Playwright, a hilarious look at One-Act Festivals of all things. Wade Lawson (Stephen T. Wangner) meets up with a reporter (Tamralynn Dorsa) for an interview to share his struggles, triumphs, determination and eventual obsession to becoming the most produced, but least known, playwright in history.
Next up is The Turn-Around, by Cary Pepper. In a constant battle with his next door neighbor Lester’s many assault rifles and gun range, Robert (Antoine Jones) approaches Lester (Steve Ayle), with a change of heart in their ongoing war over the Second Amendment. The Turn-Around addresses one of today’s hot button issues from a wickedly humorous point-of-view.
The first half concludes with the darkest offering of the evening. Joshua Young’s disturbing Bad China shows Nos (Steven Uihlein) asking for a favor from his sister, Reba (Brittany Lacy), which she keeps from her husband, Del (Evan Teich). A brutal portrait of the opioid crisis is played out within a dysfunctional family, where choices lead to harrowing results.
After a brief intermission, the show continues with Benign Departures, Tony Pasqualini’s vision of a national health crisis from a catastrophic perspective. Set some fifty years in the future, Dr. Elizabeth Baker (Tamralynn Dorsa) visits the homeless Maggie Elmer (Mary Ellin Kurtz) and a battle of wills ensues in which the two very different people find a common ground and a deeper understanding.
Ariana Rose’s comedy The Beat Goes On takes a peek at what goes on inside a display case at the Smithsonian, as various musical containers vie for superiority. Hilarity ensues as Cass (Sari Feldman), Trax (Steve Ayle), L.P. (Antoine Jones), Cee Dee (Brittany Lacey), and Dayta (Steven Uihlein) all hope for a transfer to the newer adjacent display case, leaving the audience in stitches.
The evening closes with Frank Tangredi’s Play Date, a whimsical look at fatherhood from two very different perspectives. The elderly Lou Gershwin (Bradlee Bing) just had a child with his second wife who is 30 years younger and 15-year-old Tyler Hill (Eric J. Hughes) gets limited visitation rights with his child. Meeting at a park bench, the two fathers share their stories and connect in a poignant, charming story.
With an excellent lineup and incredible cast, this festival is not to be missed. Get your ticket before they’re sold out.
Sponsored by Lippencott Financial Group, Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson will present The 23rd annual Festival of One-Act Plays through April 2. Please note: The plays contains adult language and subject matter. Parental discretion is advised. Running time is two hours with one 15-minute intermission. All seats are $20. To order, call the box office at 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com
All photos by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Paint this cute Shamrock at the Atelier at Flowerfield on March 12. Image from The Atelier
Programs
Little Scientists
Join the staff at Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park for a children’s program, Little Scientists, on March 5 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This programs will connect children and their parents with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. For ages 3 to 5. $4 per child. Advance reservations required by visiting Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure.
Shamrock Painting Class
Registration underway! The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Building #15, St. James will host a St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Painting class for ages 6 to 12 on March 12 from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Join Miss Linda in the studio as she teaches you how to paint a shamrock and a ladybug. Fee is $50 and includes materials. To register, call 250-9009 or visit www.theatelieratflowerfield.org.
Moonstruck Mania
Save the date! The Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington in collaboration with the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will present Moonstruck Mania: An Art and Science Adventure on March 13 from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Families with children ages 6 and up are invited to begin their adventure at the Heckscher exploring the exhibition Moonstruck:Lunar Art from the Collection and creating a lunar masterpiece. Then meet at the Vanderbilt Planetarium for a 30 minute live viewing and lecture of that night’s sky followed by a screening of “Earth, Moon & Sun.” $15 per person. To register, visit www.heckscher.org.
Theater
Disney’s ‘Frozen Jr.’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Disney’s Frozen Jr. Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. from Feb. 13 to March 13. 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! Tickets are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the world premiere of Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 23 to March 26. 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 Tin Man, and the Lion as they encounter challenges and celebrate friendship. This new take on a classic tale features an original score, memorable characters, and fun for the entire family. Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz is a delightful reminder that “there’s no place like home!” All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
Disney’s ‘High School Musical Jr.’
We’re All In This Together! Disney Channel’s smash hit musical comes to life at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown in Disney’s High School Musical Jr. from April 15 to May 15. Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with issues of love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extra curricular activities. The show’s infectious, danceable songs will have you dancing in your seats! All seats are $25. To order, call 724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Josie McSwane as the Wicked Witch of the West and Stephanie Moreau as Glinda in a scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/TheatreThreeProductionsInc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
The cast of 'Dorothy's Adventures in Oz'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/TheatreThreeProductionsInc.
The cast of 'Dorothy's Adventures in Oz'. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/TheatreThreeProductionsInc.
A scene from the show. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
By Heidi Sutton
Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Theatre Three in Port Jefferson has a brand new children’s show and it’s over the rainbow!
First published in 1900 as a children’s book titled The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, the story of Dorothy Gale and her three travel companions in the Land of Oz has given rise to many sequels, spin-offs and adaptations including radio shows, musicals and the iconic 1939 MGM film starring a 16-year-old Judy Garland.
Now Theatre Three presents a brand new take on the classic tale with the world premiere of the family-friendly musical Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz. While the message stays the same, the show features over 10 original song and dance numbers as it travels down the Yellow Brick Road.
We first meet Dorothy at the L. Frank Baum Central School in Harrison Corner. As the editor of the Baum Bugle, she is on deadline trying to get the paper out when a big storm approaches. A wind knocks her down and when she awakens she finds herself in Munchkinland.
Her news stand has landed on the Wicked Witch of the North causing her demise. When confronted by the Wicked Witch of the West, Dorothy is protected by Glinda the Good Witch who gives her those famous ruby slippers and sends her down the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City to find the Wizard of Oz who can help her get home.
Along the way Dorothy meets a Scarecrow who wants a brain, a Tinman who yearns for a heart, and a Lion who longs for courage. The three join her on her quest and the adventure begins.
Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the cast of nine adult actors embrace the wonderful script and run with it. Incredibly all of the scenes from the iconic movie are there: the talking apple trees, the poppies, meeting the Wizard, the flying monkeys, the Winkies and the melting scene, with several actors playing multiple roles.
With a wonderful singing voice, Katie Lemmen is perfectly cast as the sweet yet determined Dorothy who learns many lessons on her journey. Sari Feldman knocks it out of the park as the limber Scarecrow with a great tap dance number titled “I Think” and Steven Uihlein is excellent in the role of the Tinman who keeps rusting up.
However, it is Finn MacDevitt, in the role of that fraidy-cat Lion terrified of his own tail, who draws the most laughs and is simply divine. His “I’m a Lion” solo is terrific.
Toto, played by the incomparable and adorable Shay Francis Feldman, makes a well-behaved appearance in the first and final scene.
Stephanie Moreau and Josie McSwane make a wicked good pair as Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West, Jason Furnari is a wise Wizard, Liam Marsigliano is a hilarious Winkie and Heather Rose Kuhn’s winged monkey is charming.
The song and dance numbers choreographed by Sari Feldman andaccompanied on piano by Douglas J. Quattrock are energetic, creative and fun with special mention to “Pitta-Pat” and “Poppies!”
The astounding special effects with the lighting and sound, the awesome props (wait until you see the crystal ball!) coupled with the impressive polished costumes by Jason Allyn are the icing on the cake.
A fun afternoon for the entire family, Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz is a wonderful reminder that “there’s no place like home!”
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz through March 26. Children’s theatre continues with The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 16 to May 7 and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs from May 28 to June 18. All seats are $10. For more information or to order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Stony Brook University’s Wang Center on March 4. Photo from Wang Center
Ongoing
TVHS expands hours
The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket will be open for the spring season on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for exhibit tours of SPIES! and Chicken Hill and gift shop from March 6 to May7. For more information, call 751-3730 or visit www.tvhs.org.
Thursday 3
Suffrage exhibit opens
The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson celebrates Women’s History Month with an exhibit on the second floor titled Celebrating Women’s Suffrage and the Timeless Connection of Nan Guzzetta. The exhibit opens today and runs through March 31 daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The community is invited to a reception on March 6 from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 802-2160.See story on page B13.
Vanderbilt lecture
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will present an evening lecture titled Necessary Ingredients: Astronomy and Life’s Origins at the Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium at 7 p.m. Dr. Tom Rice will explore one of astronomy’s most pressing issues—how the ingredients necessary for life, nitrogen and carbon, become part of terrestrial worlds like the Earth during planet formation. A stargazing event will follow the lecture, weather permitting. Tickets are $15, $5 members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
An evening of jazz
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents a concert by the Jazz Loft Big Band at 7 p.m. The 17-member band led by Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel performs jazz standards and original compositions and arrangements written by band members. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children, children under 5 free at www.thejazzloft.org.
Friday 4
First Friday at the Heckscher
The Heckscher Museum, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington continues its First Fridays series tonight from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions on view with a performance by the Flutissimo! flute quartet in the galleries at 7 p.m. Free tickets available at the door. Call 380-3230 for more info.
Celebrating Lunar New Year
Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center’s Theatre, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host a Celebrating Lunar New Year: The Year of the Tigerevent from 6 to 7 p.m. Enjoy Chinese lion, fan, and ribbon dances and Peking opera with full costumes and authentic music that will engage you in fun and educational ways. Presented by the New York Chinese Cultural Center. Admission is $20 adults, $15 students, seniors and children ages 6 to 12, free for children under 6. For more info, call 632-4400.
Wintertide Concert Series
Pete Mancini and Mick Hargreaves (Americana country-folk songwriters) kick off the Wintertide Concert Series at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson from 7:30 to 9 p.m. $5 tickets at the door. Questions? Call 473-4778.
Saturday 5
Saltwater Fishing Expo – just added!
Ward Melville High School Fishing Club, 380 Old Town Road, EAST SETAUKET will host the 9th annual Saltwater Fishing Expo starting at 8:30 a.m. featuring fly casting demonstrations, over 200 vendors, raffles, food trucks and much more! Free admission. There will be a free shuttle bus starting at 10 a.m. and running till 3 p.m. from the Full Gospel Christian Center on Old Town Road (east side of the road off of 347 and Old Town) to the main entrance. We know when our lot gets full that parking is difficult but we would like to remind you that you can park at then elementary school on Norwood Ave (which is in walking distance) and would ask you not to park in the funeral home or Jewish center parking lots. For more information, visit www.wardmelvillefishingclub.com/2022expo/.
Polar Plunge
Ready to take the plunge? The Smithtown Children’s Foundation will hold a Polar Plunge at the Smithtown Yacht Club, 552 Long Beach Road, St. James at 10 a.m. Registration is at 9 a.m. Single dip is $30, double dip $50 for 2, group of 5 or more $25 per person, virtual plunge $20 per person. Enjoy raffles, coffee, hot chocolate, bagels and donuts. To sign up, visit www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com.
TVHS Groundbreaking Ceremony
The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket invites the community to attend the ground breaking ceremony for the Dominick-Crawford Barn Education Center from 10 a.m. to noon. Call 751-3730 or email [email protected] to RSVP.
Caleb Smith hike
Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown for The Trail Less Traveled, a winter hike on the Red Trail from 10 a.m. to noon. This will be a moderately paced hike that includes some hills, so wear good walking shoes, dress warm, and bring water. $4 per person. Reservations are required by calling 265-1054.
Maple Sugaring Day
Join Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket for their annual Maple Sugaring Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy all things maple during this self-guided tour. Receive a map of the farm showing where the maple stations are located and a bit of information about each one. You can visit each station more than once, skip over another and come back! During the day the farm will be offering up some yummy warm pancakes with syrup for purchase. The farm store will be open to purchase maple products as well! No reservations are required. Pricing is $12 for adults and $10 for children/seniors. Questions? Call 689-8172.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
It’s back! Grand Marshals Charlie Gardner and his daughter Commander Diane Gardner will lead the annual Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade when it kicks off at noon in front of the Celtic Crossing Tavern at 83 Pulaski Road. The line of march will be east to Main Street,north to Church Street and end in front of St. Joseph’s R.C. Church on the corner of Old Dock Road. Over 15 bands will be featured along with civic organizations and local businesses. For more information, call 269-7678.
All Souls Concert
The Saturdays at Six concert series continues at All Souls Church, 61 Main St., Stony Brook with a performance by Taylor and Alison Ackley from the Deep Roots Ensemble performing the rich sound of their two-part harmony, bringing old and new songs to life. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Free. Call 655-7798 for more information.
Sunday 6
Huntington Winter Farmers Market
Get your farm fix in the off-season at the Huntington Winter Farmers Market every Sunday through March 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located behind the senior center at 423 Park Ave., Huntington, visitors will find items ranging from hydroponic greens to artisan breads and vegan treats and everything in between. Call 944-2661.
Caumsett Hike
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington will host a Winter Water Walk from 9:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Enjoy a moderately paced 4-mile walk to and from the beach and ponds to observe winter waterfowl. Bring binoculars. $4 per person. Advance reservations required by calling 423-1770.
Port Jeff Winter Farmers Market
The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market will be held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson through April 25. This year’s vendors include Brownies N’ Stuff, Joann’s Desserts, Farm Fresh Potions, Mello Munch Awesome Granola, O Honey Bee Farm, Sweet Melissa Dip, Mr. B’s Hot Sauce, Speedy Kiwi Bakery, Knot of this World Pretzels, Springbrook Hollow Farm Distillery, Spilt Milk Macarons and many more. For more information, call 802-2160.
Sunken Meadow Bird Walk
Bundle up and join us for some winter birding at Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Discover the birds that make Sunken Meadow their home for the winter on this brisk stroll along the beach, marsh, and creek. $4 per person. To register, visit Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure. For more info, call 581-1072.
An evening of comedy and music
Celebrate St. James presents The Gemini Affair at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 2nd. St., St. James from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Comedian, ventriloquist and magician Gemini Lombardi will present a show titled Illusions, Puppets & Laughs. For adults only. Donation of $25 adults, $20 seniors. To order, call 984-0201 or visit www.celebratestjames.org.
Ridotto piano concert
Ridotto, concerts with a touch of theatre, returns to the Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington at 4 p.m. with a piano recital by Zhu Wang (rescheduled from Jan. 30). The program will include music by Mozart, Schumann, Zhang Zhou, Nina Shekar, and Franz Liszt. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 members and $12 students. For reservations, call 385-0373 or visit www.ridotto.org.
North Shore Pro Musica concert – Just added!
The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook and North Shore Pro Musica present an evening of live chamber music performances in the Gillespie Room of the Carriage Museum at 5 p.m. The evening will feature a piano trio featuring violinist Emanouil Manolov, cellist Laura Metcalf, and pianist Luba Poliak featuring W. A. Mozart – Piano Sonata in F Major, K. 280 and L. V. Beethoven – Piano Trio in D Major, Op 70, No 1 among others. $20 donation is suggested. Visit https://longislandmuseum.org/lea…/adult-programs/concerts/ for more information. *Please note, all attendees are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of such, to attend this live program. Capacity limits will be in place for this performance. CDC-prescribed cleaning and safety protocols remain in effect; all visitors over the age of 2 must wear face masks while indoors.
Monday 7
SHS Spring lecture series
Kicking off its Spring Lecture Series, the Smithtown Historical Society welcomes award-winning photographer and author John Lazzaro at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown at 7 p.m. Combining rare, archival images as well as his own photography, Lazzaro will discuss his work and the approach to his creative process behind his 2019 book, The Walls Still Talk: A Photographic Journey through Kings Park Psychiatric Center. Light refreshments will be served. Free but registration is required by calling 265-6768 or by visiting www.smithtownhistorical.org.
Lucille Ball tribute
Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport presents Lucille Ball: Queen of Comedy at 2 p.m. Lecturer Marc Courtade will celebrate the life and career of Lucille Ball, who rose from humble origins to become one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, including the first woman to run a major studio. She entertained us and remains one of the finest comediennes ever known. To register, call 261-6930.
Tuesday 8
SBU Family Orchestra Concert
Theresa Jiao
Stony Brook University Orchestra will present its annual Family Orchestra Concert at the Staller Center for the Arts’ Main Stage, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook at 7:30 p.m. Conducted by Susan Deaver, this year’s theme – Music and Folk Music from Around the World – will include music displaying a variety of music styles that feature full orchestral sounds of the strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. Featured soloist is violinist Theresa Jiao who is the Young Orchestra Artist for 2021-2022 with the University Orchestra. Free admission. For further information, call 632-2787.
Wednesday 9
Audubon lecture
The Huntington-Oyster Bay Audubon Society will host a virtual lecture, Birding with the Fish Guy, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. Take a look at the sea’s feathered friends with Chris Paparo in this multimedia presentation. Find out what Long Island birds can be observed close to the shore. Learn details about wading birds, waterfowl, and raptors, as well as where one can go to observe each of them. Free. To register, visit www.hobaudubon.org.
Thursday 10
Virtual Lunch & Learn
Join the Huntington Historical Society for a virtual Lunch & Learn at noon. Enjoy your own lunch from the comfort of your home as presenter Sabrina Thomas discusses her book, Scars of War: The Politics of Paternity and Responsibility for the Amerasians of Vietnam. Presentation will last 45 minutes with time for commentary and Q&A from participants. Free. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.
Film
EMPOWERED YOUTH Photo from PJDS
‘Youth v. Gov’
The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with a screening of Youth v. Gov, the story of 21 young people, ages 13 to 19, from all over the nation and all walks of life who collectively sue the United States government for violating their constitutional rights by threatening their futures with the effects of climate change, on March 7 at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 7 p.m. Followed by a Q&A with director Christi Cooper via live Zoom. Tickets are $10 per person at the door or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.
‘Bagpipes Calling!’
Join the Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport for a screening of the documentary Bagpipes Calling! on March 8 at 7 p.m. The film celebrates the Celtic spirit as it lives on through the members of a lively bagpipe band from Long Island. Weaving together music, history, and culture, the film captures a behind-the-scenes experience of life in the band during its most festive season. Followed by a Q&A with director Andrea Wozny. To register, call 261-6930.
Theater
‘Rock of Ages’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Rock of Ages from Jan. 27 to March 13. The five-time Tony Award®-nominated Broadway musical smash tells the story of a small-town girl, a city boy, and a rock ‘n’ roll romance on the Sunset Strip. But when the bar where rock reigns supreme is set to be demolished, it’s up to these wannabe rockers and their band of friends to save the day — and the music. Rock of Ages’ electric score features all your favorite ’80s rock anthems and power ballads, including “Every Rose has its Thorn,” “I Wanna Know What Love is,” Here I Go Again,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and more! Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘The Marvelous Wonderettes’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents The Marvelous Wonderettes from Feb. 19 to March 26. This blast-from-the-past musical takes you to the 1958 Springfield High School prom, where we meet Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy, and Suzy, four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts! Featuring over two dozen classic ’50’s and ’60’s hits including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Wedding Bell Blues,” and “Son of a Preacher Man.” Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and older. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘The Diary of Anne Frank’
Star Playhouse at the Suffolk Y JCCC, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack presents The Diary of Anne Frank on March 12 and 19 at 8 p.m. and March 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. In this transcendently powerful adaptation, Anne Frank emerges from history a living, lyrical, intensely gifted young girl, who confronts her rapidly changing life and the increasing horror of her time with astonishing honesty, wit, and determination. Tickets are $25 adults, $20 seniors and students. To order, call 462-9800, ext. 136 or visit www.starplayhouse.com.
Festival of One-Act Plays
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 23rd annual Festival of One-Act Plays, featuring the world premiere of six new works, at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre, on the Second Stage from Feb. 27 to April. 2. Featuring Steve Ayle, Antoine Jones, Tamralynn Dorsa, Brittany Lacey, Steven Uihlein, Steve Wangner, Bradlee Bing, Sari Feldman, Eric J. Hughes, and Evan Teich. Adult content and language. Parental discretion is advised. Tickets are $20. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B12.
‘A Bronx Tale’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents A Bronx Tale from March 24 to May 8. Based on Chazz Palminteri’s classic movie, this streetwise musical will take you to the stoops of the Bronx in the 1960s—where a young man is caught between the father he loves and the mob boss he’d love to be. Featuring a doo-wop score, A Bronx Tale is a story about respect, loyalty, love, and above all else: family. Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Steel Magnolias’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Steel Magnolias from April 9 to May 7. Come on down to Truvy’s Louisiana beauty shop where six strong women share their hopes and dreams. Beginning on the day of debutante Shelby’s wedding, the play traces this eccentric and lovable cast of characters as they support each other through life’s many challenges.Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and older. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
The Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade, shown above in 2020. File photo by Rita J. Egan
The Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off at noon, once again, from Celtic Crossing Tavern on Pulaski Road Saturday, March 5. This year father and daughter Charles and Diane Gardner Howell, longtime hamlet residents, will be leading the parade after waiting more than a year to do so.
Charlie Gardner and his daughter Naval Cmdr. Diane Gardner Howell are the 2022 grand marshals of the Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Photo from Diane Gardner Howell; file photo above by Rita J. Egan
That parade hasn’t been held since 2020 when participants were still able to march, and residents enjoyed the event a few days before mandatory state shutdowns due to COVID-19. The parade was canceled last year to comply with pandemic protocols.
The committee was optimistic for 2021 and named Gardner, former Suffolk County commissioner of consumer affairs, and his daughter, U.S. Naval Cmdr. Gardner Howell, as grand marshals of the 2021 parade based on their contributions both in the community and the United States. When the event was canceled, the father and daughter retained the titles for 2022.
“The parade committee is proud of the Gardner family, longtime residents of Kings Park, for its service to Kings Park and the military,” the committee said in a press release.
Gardner said the family found out about being grand marshals a few months after his daughter returned from her deployment in southern Afghanistan. He said he and his wife were thrilled that their daughter was named grand marshal, and then he found out that he would share the spotlight with her.
“I’m very humbled,” he said. “For us,
it’s just a great honor celebrating my family’s heritage.”
He added he has walked in the parade several times as a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He said Irish pride is strong in the hamlet, dating back to when the Kings Park Psychiatric Center hospital
was operating.
“I think it’s a great deal for Kings Park, because there are so many Irish families, there’s a strong Irish heritage in Kings Park,” Gardner said. “That goes back to the hospital days. There were very many Irish people who emigrated and then got jobs at the hospital, and more and more of their family members came over. So, there was a large contingent of Irish.”
Gardner knows about the importance of the hospital and its ties to Irish history in Kings Park. His paternal grandmother came from the Buffalo area with her family to work at the hospital around the late 1920s-early ’30s, and she remained working there until her retirement. Gardner met his wife, who is also named Diane, due to the hospital when she studied nursing with his sister at Kings Park State Hospital School of Nursing.
Gardner is among the third generation of his family to live in Kings Park on his mother’s side, who was from the Baker family. The Bakers have been part of the community for decades. His grandfather was a police officer in Smithtown, while his grandmother raised 11 children. He added the Bakers once had a taxi stand on Main Street in Kings Park, a restaurant near Sunken Meadow, and he had many uncles who were school bus drivers and involved in the fire department, including one who was fire chief.
Gardner worked for Suffolk County for 40 years before retiring in 2008 after 12 years as commissioner of consumer affairs and has been a member of the Kings Park board of education and chamber of commerce. He also is a past chamber president.
He said he and his wife are proud of their daughter, who is currently assistant chief nurse anesthetist at Stony Brook University Hospital. Gardner Howell has been in the Navy for more than 20 years and earned a bronze star due to her participation in active combat. She is currently in the Navy Reserve. In addition to being this year’s Kings Park parade joint grand marshal, she was recently nominated as Humanitarian of the Year by Kings Park Chamber of Commerce.
Gardner Howell said when she decided to return to Kings Park to live, she was happy to return home to a hamlet she said embraces family.
“Even with me being away all those years for military service and school service, coming back to Kings Park really did feel like coming back home,” she said. “So for the [parade] committee to honor me along with my dad just shows you what a great family town it is. It’s very sweet of them to do this to recognize me along with my dad.”
Gardner Howell added in the past the committee has recognized more than one person from a family, including her cousins the Nally family in 2019.
“The parade committee has a way of bringing the whole town together,” she said. “They may recognize a family or a person but really we celebrate everybody.”
The 2022 Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade will feature 20 bands, including 14 bagpipe bands, police officers from Suffolk, Nassau and New York City, local fire departments, various civic associations and businesses. The parade will travel down Main Street and ends at St. Joseph’s R.C. Church on Church Street.
Pictured from left are Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Victoria (Chef Filomena’s family); chamber members Colette Frey-Bitzas and Michael Ardolino; owner/chef Filomena Lombardi; Scott (Chef Filomena’s Family); Farm to Table Catering and Café staff members; chamber members Martha Stansbury, Kenneth Kroncke and Carmine Inserra; and Jenna Alberti from Assemblyman Steve Englebright’s office.
Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich with owner Filomena Lombardi
On February 17, Farm to Table Catering and Café by Filomena, located at 2460 Nesconset Highway, Suite #1 in Stony Brook, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony.The new business is a full-service catering company founded by head chef, Filomena Lombardi.
The event was attended by Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, the Three Village Chamber of Commerce and Jenna Alberti from NYS Assemblyman Steve Englebright’s office.
“It was a pleasure welcoming Farm to Table Catering & Café by Filomena at their new location in Stony Brook. The food and service brought by Filomena is like no other, offering a homemade variety of avocado toasts, sandwiches, wraps, salads, cookies and baked goods that provide a healthy alternative for those who are looking for a clean diet. I love seeing our local businesses thrive and encourage everyone to try an avocado toast from this new eatery,” said Councilmember Kornreich.
Town of Huntington officials praised this public expression of solidarity and humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine. Town Councilman Sal Ferro (R) said he believes that Americans and Ukrainians are united under a common purpose, likening this local initiative with the cause of the Ukrainian resistance.
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