Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
By Bill Landon
It was another edition of Superheroes of the Sky Saturday morning, Feb. 15, at the Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown where a cacophony of wild birds of prey made their presence known and tour guide Jim MacDougall conducted the daily ritual of feeding the hawks, barred owls, turkey vultures and bald eagle among others at the end of Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown.
Sweetbriar Nature Center is situated on 54 acres of varied garden, woodland, field and wetland habitats on the Nissequogue River. Hundreds of species of plants and animals make their homes there.
Many of the feathered friends were injured raptors lucky enough to find safe refuge at the center where onlookers learned about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild.
Through education and examples, the center encourages responsible decision making, appreciation and respect for the unique wildlife and ecosystems found on Long Island.
The next Superheroes of the Sky program will be held on Saturday, March 8 from 11 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 children. Preregistration is required by clicking here.
For more information about the Sweetbriar Nature Center visitwww.sweetbriarnc.org.
Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York (Little Flower), a social services organization based in Wading River supporting children, youth, families and individuals with developmental disabilities across New York and Long Island, welcomed Mary J. Maguire, SPHR, CDE, to the senior executive team as the organization’s new Vice President of Human Resources and Culture, effective February 18, 2025.
With more than 20 years of experience in human resources and operations leadership, Maguire brings strategic expertise in workforce transformation, talent optimization, and culture development to support Little Flower’s mission of empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and transforming care into action.
As a key member of the Senior Executive Council, Maguire will lead the human resources strategy across the organization, ensuring that talent development, employee engagement, workforce planning, benefits, and equity and inclusion work align with Little Flower’s long-term vision. She will also advance leadership development, enhance employee relations, and cultivate a workplace culture that promotes service excellence.
“Mary’s outstanding leadership in human capital strategy, organizational development, and culture transformation makes her an invaluable addition to our team,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Corinne Hammons in a press release. “Her ability to drive impactful talent initiatives, develop inclusive and high-performing teams, and implement HR innovations will strengthen our organization and enhance the employee experience.”
Maguire’s career includes senior leadership roles in human resources and operations, such as Chief Operating Officer (and Global CHRO) at SAPRO, Chief Human Resources Officer at PKF O’Connor Davies, LLP, Regional Director of Human Resources at Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, and Director of Human Resources at RSM. She has led transformational HR strategies, initiated award-winning DEIB programs, optimized talent management, and driven operational efficiency, positioning organizations for sustainable growth and success.
As a recognized HR strategist and workforce development leader, Maguire holds certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE). She has played a pivotal role in designing and implementing innovative talent initiatives, promoting compensation equity, and fostering a learning, inclusion, and professional growth culture.
“I am honored to join Little Flower, an organization that is genuinely committed to transforming care into action,” said Maguire. “By building a dynamic, engaged workforce and advancing strategic people initiatives, we will strengthen our mission, empower our employees, and drive sustainable impact for the children, families, and communities we serve.”
About Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York
Little Flower Children and Family Services of New York is a nonprofit organization serving individuals and families across New York City and Long Island. Since 1929, Little Flower has been committed to improving the well-being of children, youth, adults with developmental disabilities, and families by building on their strengths and supporting their success.
Today, Little Flower’s staff provide community-based services, foster care and adoption programs, services for people with developmental disabilities, medical and behavioral health services and coordination, and residential treatment care.
Free drug testing kits, and a lot of useful advice and information were offered at a drug awareness forum at Brookhaven Town Hall on Feb. 10.
The workshop, “The More You Know… Substance Abuse Education,” was open to anyone and was presented by The Town of Brookhaven’s Department of General Services Youth Bureau Division.
The forum attracted parents, some with their children, and focused on topics such as adolescent behavior and development, reasons adolescents experiment with substances and trends in adolescent drug use.
As attendees arrived, they were handed a folder filled with informative sheets specifically directed towards parents on how to approach conversations of drug use with their children. There were also pamphlets, a printed-out version of the slideshow used and a pen and paper to take notes.
Hayden Cruz, a clinical social worker at the Youth Bureau Division, led the presentation and explained in great detail what adolescents go through when experimenting with drugs and showed the most commonly used ones. He gave advice to parents in attendance whose children struggle with this on how to approach the conversation and effectively seek help if needed.
“I just want us to keep in mind that there’s a lot of change going on and there’s a lot of unknowns for a person throughout this time period … there’s only so much that [parents] can control, but there is a way of voicing concerns and hoping that your child, the teenager, stays more focused on their own treatment and their own well being,” he said. “That takes a lot of time, a lot of trust [and] a lot of work in communication and trying to find that middle ground.”
Michelle Grisales is a reporter with The SBU Media Group, part of Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism Working Newsroom program for students and local media.
The Long Island Museum (LIM), 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents the 26th Annual Colors of Long Island Student Art Exhibition, opening on February 20. This highly anticipated exhibition provides a platform for hundreds of young artists from across Long Island to display their work in a professional museum setting.
‘Peanut Butter Jelly Time’ by Kelly Cabasso
Art teachers from public and private schools, spanning grades pre-K through 12, were invited to submit up to two pieces of student artwork. The exhibition’s theme, “Colors of Long Island,” encourages a broad spectrum of interpretations—some students reflect on Long Island’s scenic landscapes, while others highlight the cultural diversity that makes the region so vibrant. This year’s exhibition features a dynamic mix of media, including watercolor, sculpture, pencil, ink, oil pastel, photography, and digital art.
“With over 278 students participating, this exhibition is a testament to the remarkable talent and creativity of the young artists on Long Island,” said Samantha O’Rourke, Senior Educator at the LIM. “Each piece reflects not only the students’ artistic talent but also the dedication of art educators who inspire and guide them. It’s always incredible to see how young artists use their work to tell stories, share perspectives, and express their individuality.”
The Colors of Long Island Student Art Exhibition will be on view in the Art Museum from February 20 through May 8, 2025. For more information on programs and exhibitions, visit longislandmuseum.org
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School recently presented Imaginary, an enchanting new musical that explores the magic of childhood, the power of imagination, and the journey of growing up. This exciting production, from Jan/ 31 to Feb. 2, was the New York premiere of the musical and captivated audiences with its heartfelt storyline and talented performers.
Featuring catchy tunes and touching ballads, Imaginary follows a young protagonist as they navigate a mystery at their new school—why are all these students acting like zombies? To save the day they must learn to harness the power of friendship and imagination. As the story unfolds, the audience is reminded of the importance of nurturing creativity and connection in a world that often emphasizes the pursuit of perfect grades instead.
“The themes of Imaginary resonate deeply with children and adults alike,” said Christine Creighton and Laurel Ormiston, the directors of the musical. “It’s a story about holding onto the magic of your imagination while embracing the changes that come with growing up. We were incredibly proud to bring this inspiring production to the stage for the first time in New York, and to be able to give that unique opportunity for both cast and audience to experience something brand new.”
The cast, comprised of Port Jefferson Middle School students, showcased their months of dedicated work by delivering joyful, expressive performances. “We could not be more proud of these students. For many, this was their first show, and we hope that this was the start of their journey here with our phenomenal Royals’ performing arts community,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, the Port Jefferson Director of Music and Fine Arts.
The musical was also brought to life through exquisite lighting, props, costumes, and beautifully crafted sets which were the result of generous efforts by both parent volunteers and Port Jefferson staff. “Our students and families have been one of the best to work with because of their enthusiasm, teamwork, and talent,” noted Creighton.
The Port Jefferson Middle School community came together to enjoy this extraordinary event, with many students, teachers, and families attending the performances. The success of Imaginary marks another milestone in the school’s long history of producing high-quality theatrical productions.
Allison Wong with her project. Photo by Kelly Gwydir
By Daniel Dunaief
Over 150 students around Long Island recently caught the science bug.
Allison Wong with Marivia Fernández-Serra. Photo courtesy of Kelly Gwydir
Students from kindergarten through 12th grade made one-minute videos to celebrate historic women in science as a part of the Institute for Advanced Computational Science’s (IACS) second annual competition.
Contestants in the Stony Brook University challenge described their connection with women who sometimes operated in the scientific shadows, while they also described an experiment they did that highlighted an important concept or achievement from the work of historical role models.
“We want to recognize the importance of women in the history of science and engineering,” said Mónica Buggalo, a co-chair of the event and professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineeringand at the IACS. Despite the young age of some of the participants, Buggalo was “blown away by how confident they are. It’s unbelievable.”
On Feb. 13, in honor of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the finalists provided a two-minute summary of their work and then the IACS named the winners, who will receive cash prizes.
Baylee Stanton from Saxton Middle School and Allison Wong from Lynbrook South Middle School were tied for first place. Each of them will receive $875.
“I’m really proud of myself because this is a pretty advanced topic,” said Wong.
The students presented their one minute videos on any of 10 women.
Wong selected Katherine Johnson, whom she had studied in fourth grade during Black History Month.
“She inspired me to keep learning,” said Wong.
Allison Wong describing her project. Photo by Kelly Gwydir
After describing Johnson, who was one of the scientists featured in the movie “Hidden Figures” and for whom two NASA facilities are named, as an “African American mathematician who fundamentally transformed the field of aerospace engineering,” Wong went on to describe her project.
She set up an experiment using a catapult and four projectiles, in which she recorded the flight time and distance for a ping pong ball, cotton ball, bottle cap and marble. She recorded these measurements five times each at three different angles.
In an interview, Wong suggested that Johnson’s legacy is important as she calculated trajectories for the first US manned space flight and for Apollo 11.
Wong, who wants to be a doctor when she grows up, explained that the experience of competing made her feel “really inspired.”
She plans to put the money into a bank account and hopes to use it later in life.
Allison’s father David Wong was thrilled with the program and hopes it grows exponentially over the years, as the experience about researching women role models is inspirational.
David Wong said he himself knew about three of the scientists the contestants profiled, including Rosalind Franklin, who helped determine the double helical structure of the genetic material DNA and Marie Curie, who conducted ground breaking research on radiation and was the first woman to earn a degree from the University of Paris.
The opportunity to learn about the other scientists on the list was “eye opening,” David Wong said.
Designing a paper bag
Lucy Jane Sammarco. Photo courtesy of Samarco family
While many grocery shoppers might take the paper bag for granted, that is not the case for Hampton Street second grader Lucy Samarco.
Samarco learned about Margaret E. Knight, who had 27 patents and 100 inventions and was called “Lady Edison.” Knight developed the machine that created the flat bottomed paper bag, which is still in use today.
Samarco, who won an honorable mention for her entry and will collect $300 from the IACS, said the morning announcements in school included her result in the competition.
Her classmates clapped for her, which made her smile.
Samarco, who made a volcano that included baking soda, white crystals and water the weekend after the competition, wants to be a scientist when she grows up. Her favorite animal is the pink parrot.
Lucy’s mother Tricia Samarco was overwhelmed with emotion.
Lucy Jane Sammarco. Photo courtesy of Samarco family
All the competitors, who were mostly but not exclusively girls, were “absolutely amazing,” said Tricia Samarco. She said she was impressed with their confidence and their ability to speak in public.
Mike Samarco, Lucy’s father, was concerned that the project might be too challenging for Lucy and that he and his wife might not be able to offer much help.
“She kept coming back and saying, ‘This project looks exciting,” Mike Samarco said. Eventually, Lucy’s enthusiasm won the day.
Ultimately, Lucy has no shortage of ambition or ideas, suggesting she wanted to discover things, change the world and, perhaps, become president.
Strawberry DNA
Julia and Valerie D’Amico. Photo courtesy of D’Amico family
Mineola sisters Julia and Valerie D’Amico, who took home an honorable mention in last year’s competition, received a third place prize for their description and experiment on Franklin.
“She played a great part in discovering DNAs double helical structure,” said Julia, who is in 7th grade at Mineola Middle School. “We were inspired by her.”
The tandem, who received $500 for coming in third, conducted an experiment to extract DNA from a strawberry.
“It was cool seeing how you could do it,” said Valerie, who is in third grade at Jackson Avenue School. Valerie has longer term ambitions to study archeology.
Julia suggested that some of the women scientists from earlier times might have confronted biases against them if they were interested in science or math.
The combination plans to enter the contest again next year as well.
Enriching and enjoyable
Marivia Fernández-Serra, who also co-chaired the event and is a professor in Physics & Astronomy and at the IACS, appreciated how much fun the participants have.
She enjoys watching them take pictures with their scientists.
Fernández-Serra described the event as a “celebration of students.
The goal was of what she described as an “outreach activity” was to “get students excited about doing science and doing research and aspiring to come and start degrees at universities.”
Fernández-Serra suggested that the IACS may break the competition down into different age groups, with entries from elementary, middle school and high school.
Buggalo is thrilled that student competitors are demonstrating interest that extend beyond the challenge.
“There is a lot of excitement about science,” said Buggalo. “Some of them ask about opportunities that the university offers. We do have summer camps and academic activities in research.”
Think about your favorite song. What about it lifts your spirit? Maybe it’s the lyrics that feel so relatable, or the catchy melody that gets stuck in your head for days. For many people, though, good music is all about rhythm — a driving beat that makes you bob your head and want to dance.
The Stony Brook University Orchestra is tuning up to celebrate the power of rhythm at their annual Family Orchestra Concert on Tuesday, Feb. 25. The hour-long performance is meant to expose listeners of all ages to classical music in a relaxed, lighthearted atmosphere.
Alicja Paruch
The orchestra is comprised of more than 70 Stony Brook students from all backgrounds. Some are music majors or minors, while others are studying in STEM fields and race from the lab to rehearsals. Conductor Susan Deaver scours the university’s music collection each year to find pieces that work well together and create a unique theme.
“I tried to highlight a variety of different rhythms with this concert, not just from piece to piece but also varying rhythms within the pieces as well,” said Deaver of this year’s selections. “And as always, we’ll teach people about all the different sounds an orchestra can make — the strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion — along with different dynamics and moods they can create. It’s going to be like a kaleidoscope.”
The concert’s lineup includes Alfred Reed’s “A Festival Prelude,” with sweeping and march-like elements; Jerry Brubaker’s “That Gershwin Rhythm,” a medley of hits from the famous American composer behind “I Got Rhythm”; and a rollicking section called “Hoe-Down” from Aaron Copland’s “Rodeo,” among others.
This year’s featured soloist is 21-year-old music major Alicja Paruch, the 2024 winner of the Undergraduate Concerto Competition. The majority of previous winners played either the piano or violin, but Paruch is playing an instrument that you don’t often see in the spotlight — the marimba. Paruch will perform selections from Ney Rosauro’s Marimba Concerto.
“I started by playing piano when I was young, and when I came [back to the United States] I looked for opportunities to continue but they were hard to come by,” said Paruch, who was born in the U.S. but primarily raised in Poland. “My high school teacher suggested I try the bells.”
The marimba is a percussion instrument in the bells family, and is played using mallets like a xylophone. The layout is similar to a piano, and Paruch made the transition comfortably. She was eventually skilled enough to play with many mallets simultaneously, holding several in each hand.
Paruch admitted she entered the concerto competition just for extra practice. The results shocked her.
“I was hoping to get some extra feedback and improve my playing. I didn’t think that I would win,” she laughed. “I was so surprised!”
A short composition by LeRoy Anderson, “The Typewriter,” will be another highlight. The fast-moving piece puts an actual typewriter in the spotlight, weaving the clacking of the keys and the “ding!” that precedes the carriage return with the orchestral sounds.
As Deaver was developing the concert list, she was delighted when freshman Maximo Flores approached her with some unexpected news: Flores collects typewriters. In fact, he owns five of them.
“I’m fascinated by antiques, and I love the idea of preserving parts of the past,” said Flores, a biology and music major whose main instrument is clarinet. “I got my first typewriter on Craigslist, and now I try to find them wherever I can.”
Deaver naturally asked Flores if he’d like to learn the typewriter solo for the piece.
“I’m an introvert, so this isn’t something I would usually seek out, but I’m a curious person and I love a challenge,” he said.
All told, the concert will be an exciting mix of selections that anyone can appreciate.
“When we say it’s a family concert, we truly mean the whole family can come and enjoy it, even the littlest ones. Some songs may be recognizable, and others will be a brand new experience,” Deaver explained. “Getting to hear an orchestra live and in person is also about getting to see the different instruments, learn how they work and the different sounds they can create. There’s a misconception that the orchestra is very serious, but the whole point is to enjoy the music. And maybe your feet won’t be able to stay still!”
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The SBU Family Orchestra Concert will be held on the Main Stage of Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Rd., Stony Brook on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 631-632-7330 or visit www.stonybrook.edu/music.
The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will welcome back Anthony Marinello, owner of Dropseed Native Landscapes Native Plant Nursery and a bird-habitat specialist, to speak on supporting native backyard songbirds on Sunday, February 23, from 11 a.m. to noon.
Songbirds add beauty and delight to our world. Backyard bird watching and feeding is a cherished tradition for many who appreciate our feathered friends. Marinello will give a presentation on how to support common backyard songbirds with native plants, bird feeders, and other habitat elements. Afterward, participants will make pinecone feeders.
Marinello is a New York State Certified Nursery and Landscape Professional as well as a Certified National Audubon Habitat and Ecosystems Land Professional.
Beth Laxer-Limmer, Director of Education, said, “The Museum is excited to have Anthony Marinello back to share his knowledge of native birds and plants and how we can create a backyard ecosystem for songbirds.”
For adults and children 10 and up. Participating children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
ROAD TRIP: Catch a screening of 'A Goofy Movie' at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington on Feb. 23.
PROGRAMS
February Break at the Hatchery
Enjoy February Break at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor with Homemade Playdough on Feb. 20 and a Hatchery Tour with live animal encounters on Feb. 21. No reservations necessary. All activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and arefree with admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors and $5 children ages 3 to 12. www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768
Gesture drawing
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers a Gesture Drawing Workshop with artist Wendy Klemperer on Feb. 20 from noon to 2 p.m. Participants will view drawings and sculptures in her exhibition Wrought Taxonomies, practice gestural drawing, and learn about the artistic process of creating sculpture that captures movement and form. For kids in grades 5 to 8 only. Tickets are $45, $40 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Stellar Suncatchers and Solar Observing
Children ages 9 to 12can learn all about the Sun, create stellar suncatchers and safely look directly at the Sun through a solar telescope (weather permitting) at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport on Feb. 20 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. $10 per child, $8 members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
World Whale Week Crafts
Celebrate World Whale Week at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor by dropping in to make crafts on Feb. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. See and touch real whale bones from the museum’s exhibit and learn how you can help keep the oceans safe for these incredible creatures. Make an interactive ocean sensory jar featuring a clay whale of your own creation. Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. 631-367-3418
Girl Scouts Drop-in Day at the LIM
The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook invites Girl Scouts to drop-in and spend the afternoon exploring their two newest exhibitions about democracy in America, Voices and Votes and Building the Ballot Box, with an extra special focus on some courageous women who changed history on Feb. 21 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Scouts of all levels will engage with museum educators in the galleries, create a button with their own slogan, design a sash with sass in our studio, and even take a picture with a real Suffrage Wagon used in campaigns on Long Island! Earn the LIM’s own History Maven patch or work on requirements for your troop level’s Democracy badge. Fee is $15 per Scout and one adult free (all other non-scouts require regular museum admission). LIM patch is available for $2 after activities are complete. To register, visit www.longislandmuseum.org.
WinterFest at the library
Families with children up to Grade 6 are invited to drop by Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a WinterFest celebration on Feb. 22 between 10 a.m. and noon. Enjoy frosty fun with games, crafts, and contests! No registration required. Bring a friend! Questions? Email [email protected]
The Art of Horace Pippin
For Black History Month, Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 West Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown will present a family program, The Art of Horace Pippin on Feb. 22 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. See how African American painter Horace Pippin’s artwork reflected upon America’s history of slavery, segregation, and war before learning how to paint in his unique style. $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.
Little Artists Workshop
Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a Little Artists Workshop on Feb. 22 at 11:30 a.m. This hands-on workshop is designed for children Pre-K through 4th grade, encouraging young minds to explore their artistic talents in a fun and inspiring environment. Cost is $20, $15 for members. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org
Story & Craft with Nana Carol
The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008
What is a Turtle?
As part of its Pollywog Adventures series, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents What is a Turtle? on Feb. 26 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
FILM
‘A Goofy Movie’
As part of its Cinema for Kids series, the Cinema Arts Centre,423 Park Ave., Huntington presents A Goofy Movie on Feb. 23 at noon. A 1990’s Disney cult classic, the film sees the loveable Goof attempting to bond with his teenage son Max on a hilarious cross-country road trip. En route to the ol’ fishing hole, they find themselves up to their floppy ears in misadventure, action-packed situations, narrow escapes—and even a comic close encounter with Bigfoot. Will Max learn there’s nothing wrong with taking after dear old dad…even if he is a little goofy? Rated G. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 kids. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
THEATER
A SISTER’S BOND: Gabrielle Blum and Diana Fogel star in ‘Frozen Jr.’ at the John W. Engeman Theater through March 2.
‘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.
‘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’
Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Frozen Jr. from Jan. 18 to Feb. 23. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Tickets are $26.50 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org
Hoyt Farm's interpretive specialist Sheryl Brook explains the process of maple sugaring to Hauppauge Girl Scouts Troop 428 during a previous year's event. Photo from Town of Smithtown
The annual, educational Maple Sugaring classes are back at Hoyt Farm. The highly anticipated program will run on three Sundays: February 23rd, March 2nd, and March 9th, from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, located at 200 New Highway in Commack. Tickets are just $5 per person (cash only), with classes being open to the general public. Due to high demand, it is recommended that guests arrive by 1 p.m. to register.
Hoyt Farm Park Manager Jeff Gumin teaches a group about tree tapping at a previous event. File photo by Greg Catalano/TBR News Media
“This is one of our Town’s finest and wildly popular educational programs, and it’s an experience every resident should take part in. The techniques used to make maple syrup are a cherished part of our history. Jeff Gumin, Sheryl Brook, and the entire Hoyt Farm team go above and beyond with their demonstration, making it an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend for the entire family,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim.
The Maple Sugaring Program covers the history of maple sugaring, from its discovery by Native Americans to modern-day techniques. The program 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.
A unique feature of Hoyt Farm’s program is that Black Walnut trees are tapped alongside traditional Maple trees. To produce the sweetest sap, temperatures must remain below freezing at night and above 40 degrees during the day, which typically occurs during the late February to early March sugaring season.
Program Highlights:
Historical and Educational Demonstration: Learn the full process of making maple syrup and its importance throughout history.
Interactive Learning for Kids: Hands-on learning about tree anatomy, sap production, and photosynthesis.
Family-Oriented Experience: Open to all age groups and popular amongst school groups, scout troops, families, and nature lovers alike.
The Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve’s maple sugaring program began in the late 1970s as a single class and has since grown into an interactive, family-friendly experience open to the general public.
For questions about this and other programs at Hoyt Farm, call: (631) 543-7804.
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