Kids

ONCE UPON A FAIRYTALE Catch the final performance of 'The Mystery of the Missing Ever After' at Theatre Three on June 15. Photo courtesy of Theatre Three
PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Wonderful Wildlife for children ages 2 to 4 on June 14 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 much more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Wildlife Wonders

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Lloyd Harbor hosts a visit by the Wildlife Center of Long Island on June 15 at 10 a.m. Learn about the different classes of animals and their characteristics. Meet cold-blooded reptiles, furry mammals, and feathered birds. Come and meet some local animal rescues and find out ways to help the wildlife in our area. For ages 5 and up. $10 per person. To register, visit  www.caumsettfoundation.org/programs.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on June 17 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Hatchery Scavenger Hunt

Join the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for a Scavenger Hunt on June 19 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Explore the Hatchery and Aquarium and find the animal that completes the rhyme. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors and children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Sailing to Freedom

Did you know that whaling was America’s first integrated industry? On June 19 (Juneteenth), drop by the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St. Cold Spring Harbor to celebrate the resistance and resilience of African Americans in the whaling industry at noon and again at 2 p.m. Discover the stories of trailblazing captains, ingenious inventors, and celebrated craftsmen. Enjoy a special scavenger hunt around the museum’s special exhibit and construct your own boat model using a variety of wooden materials and a bit of imagination. Admission fee + $10 participant. 631-367-3418

Dino Discoveries

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Tiny Tots program, Dino Discoveries, on June 20 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy short walks, stories, dances, animal visitors, and crafts. For children ages 3 to 5. $4 per child. Advance registration required by calling 631-269-4333.

THEATER

‘Seussical the Musical’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its children’s theater with Seussical the Musical from June 1 to June 30. “Oh the Thinks You Can Think!” Dive into the colorful world of Dr. Seuss as The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who sets off to save a speck of dust containing The Whos from destruction. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, imagination, loyalty, and community are challenged and emerge victorious. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B23.

‘The Mystery of the Missing Ever After’

“Where in the world is our happy ending?” Stories collide and mysteries abound as three great princesses come together to solve The Mystery of the Missing Ever After at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from May 25 to June 15. A slipper, a spinning wheel, and a red, red rose are all clues in this hilarious new musical! All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

FILM

‘Field of Dreams’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Field of Dreams on June 16 at noon. Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella is inspired by a voice he can’t ignore and builds a baseball diamond on his land. Afterward, the ghosts of great players start emerging from the crops to play ball, led by “Shoeless” Joe Jackson. But, as Ray learns, this field of dreams is about much more than bringing former baseball greats out to play. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Day of fun for kids supports blood cancer research at Stony Brook Cancer Center

Urban Air Lake Grove raised more than $10,000 at the first annual David Wolmetz Memorial Fundraiser honoring the late co-founder of the popular indoor adventure park on the first anniversary of his passing, June 11.

Admission to the park for kids of all ages included access to the most popular attractions including the 30-foot tall Sky Rider zipline, Climbing Walls, Bumper Cars, and more. Local vendors were also on hand for face painting, balloon animals, temporary tattoos and more.

Proceeds from the event will support blood cancer research at the Stony Brook Cancer Center, where Wolmetz received treatment from 2019 to 2023.

“Dave was dedicated to Urban Air Lake Grove and giving back to his community, and he really loved the second family at Stony Brook Cancer Center that took care of him over the last four years,” said Keith Handler, Co-Founder of Urban Air Lake Grove. “Dave was a force of nature. When he set his mind to something you could not stop him. We miss him greatly.”

In October of 2018, Dave was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He was admitted to Stony Brook Hospital’s 19th floor, where his treatment started immediately. The wonderful staff at the Cancer Center and hospital treated him throughout his cancer journey, COVID, and subsequently several hospitalizations over the years due to his compromised immune system. Dave never lost hope and trusted his entire Stony Brook Cancer team immensely. Unfortunately, Dave lost his battle on June 9, 2023.

“He loved this place so much,” said Carrie Wolmetz, wife of Dave Wolmetz. “Even in the days that he was physically unable to walk around, he would come here. He never gave up. He focused on the positive and the people he was grateful for. The people in his life who meant a lot to him gave him strength.”

Donations to Stony Brook Cancer Center can be made here.

About Urban Air Lake Grove

With 50,000 sq. ft. of active play space, Urban Air Lake Grove is home to the popular Sky Rider, a zip-line style attraction with a winding track that carries young thrill-seekers flying along 30 feet in the air, the tallest on Long Island. Urban Air Lake Grove also offers a High Ropes obstacle course, Spin Zone bumper cars, and a full set of rock-climbing walls, wall-to-wall trampoline adventures, and Urban Air’s exclusive Urban Warrior Course™ and Battle Beam.  Urban Air Lake Grove is located at 3147 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove, NY 11755. Phone: (631) 861-4125.

Nostalgic Wall of Death motorcycle stunt show is thrilling new generations of fans

A rare piece of Americana known as the “Wall of Death” will be making its only Long Island appearances from June 13 to 23 as part of the live entertainment offerings at Long Island FunFest on the campus of Suffolk County Community College at 1001 Crooked Hill Road in Brentwood.

The motorcycle stunt show, an old-school carnival attraction that was once an American midway mainstay, features a 30-foot-diameter wooden cylindrical structure inside which daredevil bikers perform trick, fancy and acrobatic riding along a 14-foot-tall wall.
The thrill show is presented by the American Motor Drome Company, one of only three traveling attractions keeping this entertaining bit of history alive by performing the show as it would have been 100 years ago. The attraction features antique Indian and Harley-Davidson motorcycles along with hand-built 4-wheeled racing machines.
According to the company’s website, “Nothing compares to seeing the show in person at the top of the 14-foot board wall, where you can smell the rubber burn and feel the wind as the motorcycles race just inches from you.”
Bob DeStefano, who along with wife Kathy owns Dreamland Amusements, which produces the annual Long Island FunFest, couldn’t agree more. DeStefano caught the Wall of Death attraction at last year’s Altamont Fair, where Dreamland provides the carnival midway.
“When I saw the show, I knew I had to bring it to Long Island,” he said. “It’s thrilling, it’s nostalgic, and it’s a rarity in this day and age. Our FunFest guests are in for a real treat.”
The Wall of Death isn’t the only treat in store at FunFest, which opens this Thursday, June 13 on the grounds of Suffolk County Community College’s Grant Campus in Brentwood.
Enjoy exciting midway rides and games for all ages, plenty of tasty carnival eats, and a variety of family entertainment that’s free with fair admission: spectacular Saturday night Fireworks by Grucci; Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean thrill show; the Anastasini Circus; concerts by FREEBIRD (Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute), Milagro (Santana tribute), The Mondays and more; an educational petting zoo; Kidbucks Game Show; Cowtown USA interactive exhibit; and the amazing Big Bee Transforming Robot Car.
Admission is $5 (free for kids under 36″ tall). Parking is free. Visit the website for Thursday Carload Nights ($60/car for admission & unlimited rides) and advance savings on rides.
FunFest hours are 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please no unaccompanied guests under age 21. For more information, call 1-866-666-3247 or visit LongIslandFunFest.com
About Dreamland Amusements
Dreamland Amusements carries more than 50 rides to service the East Coast including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. Dreamland also supplies games, food stands, silent generators, benches and covered seating areas for county and state fairs, private parties, corporate rentals and concert dates. More information: 1-866-666-FAIR (3247) or www.dreamlandamusements.com

Scene from 2023 Saints Philip and James Family Festival. Photo by Steven Zaitz
Dad’s Ride Free on Father’s Day
Once again, Newton Shows is partnering with the Sts. Philip and James to present its Annual Family Festival at the Sts. Philip and James School and Academy in Saint James from Thursday to Sunday, June 13 to 16.
“The Family Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the end of the school’s 101st year,” says Jennine Cullen, Chairperson, Sts. Philip and James Family Festival. “We’re also excited to be celebrating Father’s Day on Sunday, June 16th, allowing dads to ride free.”
The complete dates and times for the event are as follows:
Thursday, June 13 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday, June 14 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday, June 15 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday, June 16 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
“We’re super excited to bring back the Annual Family Festival,” said Michael Newton, President, Newton Shows. “It will be wonderful for friends and families to be outdoors and enjoy the festivities.”
The Annual Family Festival will feature a variety of rides guaranteed to deliver thrills, chills and excitement to the entire family. There will also be Games People Play, and delicious carnival food all weekend long.
The Annual Family Festival will be held at Sts. Philip and James School and Academy, located on 1 Carow Place, Saint James. Parking and admission are free. Advance tickets, including pay-one-price bracelets, can be purchased here.
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About Newton Shows
Newton Shows is the premier family-owned and operated outdoor amusement company on Long Island, proudly serving Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and parts of Westchester County for 75 years. For more information on Newton Shows, call (631) 499-6824 or visit newtonshows.com.

By Tara Mae

Ingenuity and imagination synthesize into innovation. The Long Island Explorium, a science and engineering museum in Port Jefferson, celebrates the projects and persons involved in this process with the 7th annual Maker Faire Long Island at the Port Jefferson Village Center, LI Explorium and Harborfront Park at 101 East Broadway on Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Featuring more than 75 exhibits and 120 presenters showcasing their creations, this multi-sensory experiential event lauds efforts in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). Exhibits range from robotics and cosplay design to environmental engineering projects, scientific advancements, kinetic art, and fire sculptures.

Highlights include:

Adam Foster’s Royal Trumpets: Majestic 15-foot kinetic pyrotechnic sound sculptures.

Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club: Bringing the Star Wars universe to life. (pictured above)

Long Island Drone Soccer: An electrifying new sport combining drone technology with soccer.

Princesses with Powertools: Empowering young engineers with hands-on projects.

Balloon Bot Brawl: A thrilling robot showdown led by high school maker Ray Rumore.

Learn to Solder Workshop: Taught by Elijah Horland of Mythbusters Jr, sponsored by PCBWay.

Besides individual contributions, organizations such as Suffolk County Community College, Brookhaven National Labs, and Stony Brook University will show some of their work. Scientists and educators from the university will also participate in ‘Ask a Scientist” Q&A sessions that enable young attendees to cultivate their curiosity as they ask scientific questions of professionals. 

In addition to the dialogues, displays, and demonstrations, the Faire will have live musical performances, including a songwriter showcase, from 1 to 5 p.m., and two performances by the Umisora Taiko Drummers.

“Maker Faire is a global movement that combines elements of classic science fairs with innovation, creativity, and STEAM. It is known as the ‘Greatest Show & Tell on Earth,’ showcasing makers’ ingenuity and creativity. Maker Faire Long Island…embodies this spirit,” said Long Island Explorium’s Director of Digital Media/Marketing/Programming Lisa Collet Rodriguez.

With conventions in other locations like New York City, San Francisco, Barcelona, and Berlin, the Maker Faire Long Island is part of a larger international initiative that fuses scientific experimentation with artistic expression. By embracing these pursuits, the family-friendly occasion seeks to engage audiences of all ages, with interactive elements geared towards youth. 

“I wish I had [Maker Faires] when I was younger. They have provided me a platform and support to share my works with tens of thousands of makers across the country, and inspire future generations of makers. It’s a win win,” said maker Adam Foster, of Rochester.

A musician, steel fabricator designer, and engineer, Foster made “The Royal Trumpets,” six 15 foot tall kinetic sculptures. They allude to the trumpets that historically announced royalty. And at the Maker Faire, this grandeur is both a celebration of community and an invitation for new members to join it. 

Encouraging visitors to dream and learn are not the only collective goals shared by many of the participants. The Faire is an opportunity for pragmatic ponderers and methodical mavericks to network with each other.

“Popular subcultures always have places to gather, such as Comic-Con. Maker Faire is that place for people passionate about the intersection of Arts and STEM now called STEAM,” maker Elijah Horland, of Brooklyn, said. “At a Maker Faire we gather, not just to show off our skills, but to collaborate with peers, mentors, and beginners alike in a supportive environment.”

Through his company, Not-A-Bomb, Horland develops mechatronic projects that incorporate engineering lessons curated to entertain and educate. He is a MythBuster from the Discovery Channel reality show and the executive producer of Maker Faire Coney Island. 

A number of the makers participate in other Maker Faires throughout the country, sharing their projects with interested parties and building relationships. 

“Maker Faires are these amazing events where people from all different backgrounds and with all different interests can come together and find a bigger community,” said maker Caeley Looney of Austin, Texas.

Originally from Farmingdale, Looney is the founder and CEO of Reinvented Inc., a nonprofit organization that hosts Princesses with Powertools. The program connects girls with women in Science, Technology, and Math (STEM) professions who, while dressed as princesses, teach them how to operate their first power tools. 

“Innovation is diversity driven. Without having diverse minds and voices working on the leading edge of science and technology, new ideas, products, and solutions will never be created. Women play a huge role in this, but historically have been left out of these fields and conversations — and that bias and pushback is still felt by students today,” she added. 

Bringing STE[A]M to individuals who historically have less access to it is a motivating factor and ongoing endeavor for many Faire associates, according to Long Island Explorium Executive Director Angeline Judex.

“Many people don’t think of museums as agents of social change in communities, but the Long Island Explorium plays a vital role on Long Island as a lighthouse of enriching STEM programs that foster inventive thinking and serve as a catalyst for empowerment,” Judex said. 

“The Maker Faire is strategically aligned with our vision to promote STEM discovery, learning, and innovation that will shape the intellect, social values, and principles of future generations,” she added.

Advanced tickets may be purchased online through EventBrite. Individual tickets, including fees, are $13.36 per person. A family pass, which has tickets for two adults and up to five children, are $57.65 including fees. Tickets at the door for individuals are $16.65, including fees. Tickets at the door for family passes are $62.80, including fees. 

For more information, including a complete list of exhibitors and schedules, visit longisland.makerfaire.com. 

From left, Joe Pokorny, Deputy CEO for Operations; Charley Golub; Alexandra Bachman; Piper Desoye; Abby Adams; Srisha Dey; and Theodore Kamm. Photo courtesy of SCWA

The winners of the annual student poster contest held by the Suffolk County Water Authority were honored at an event on May 21 at SCWA’s Education Center in Hauppauge. Six students from grades kindergarten through the 8th grade were selected for their artwork that showed the importance of water and ways that it can be protected. More than a hundred entries were submitted by students from across Suffolk County.

Deputy CEO for Operations Joe Pokorny presented the awards and praised the winners, stating, “These young artists have captured the essence of our mission—to safeguard our precious water resources. Although we could only pick a few winners, across the board the students showed their understanding of the importance of water. Their creativity and commitment to environmental stewardship inspire us all.”

Two winners were selected from each age group. Srisha Dey (Parliament Place Elementary, North Babylon) and Theodore Kamm (Park View Elementary School, Kings Park) were selected in the kindergarten to 2nd grade group. Alexandra Bachman and Piper Desoye (both of Lloyd Harbor School, Cold Spring Harbor) for the 3rd to 5th grade group. Abby Adams (West Hollow Middle School, Melville) and Charley Golub (Paul J. Gelinus Jr. High School, Setauket) for the 6th to 8th grade group.

Each winner received a certificate of achievement in recognition of their outstanding work. Their posters will be prominently displayed in the SCWA Education Center throughout the year, helping to educate visitors about drinking water and how to best protect this critical resource.

FIND YOUR INSPIRATION Drop by Long Island Museum's Studio to create a work of art inspired by the museum's exhibitions on June 8.

PROGRAMS

Animals have Dads Too!

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Tiny Tots program, Animals Have Dads Too!, on June 6 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy short walks, stories, dances, animal visitors, and crafts. For children ages 3 to 5. $4 per child. Advance registration required by calling 631-269-4333.

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Wonderful Wildlife for children ages 2 to 4 on June 7 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 much more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Open Farm Day

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will hold an Open Farm Day on June 8 from noon to 4 p.m. Hold baby bunnies/chicks, visit and feed barnyard friends, swing on the big swing, and more! Bring a snack and have a picnic. Come play, come learn! No reservations required. Admission is $10 adults, $8 seniors and children. 631-689-8172

Second Saturdays in the Studio

Visit the art studio at the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on June 8 between 1 and 4 p.m. for a hands-on activity. Create a unique work of art inspired by the exhibitions on view. Discover artists in the museum’s Power of Two exhibition who used printmaking methods to create their artwork. Find your inspiration in prints from Helen Frankenthaler, Lee Krasner and James Brooks and create your own masterpiece using gelli-print techniques. All supplies are provided. Children under 16 must have an adult with them. Free with admission to the museum. 631-751-0066

Jewelry Making Workshop

Children ages 3 to 12 are invited to drop by Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a jewelry making workshop on June 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. Make beaded bracelets or necklaces with teen volunteers. Free and open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

THEATER

‘The Mystery of the Missing Ever After’

“Where in the world is our happy ending?” Stories collide and mysteries abound as three great princesses come together to solve The Mystery of the Missing Ever After at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from May 25 to June 15. A slipper, a spinning wheel, and a red, red rose are all clues in this hilarious new musical! All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Seussical the Musical’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its children’s theater with Seussical the Musical from June 1 to June 30. “Oh the Thinks You Can Think!” Dive into the colorful world of Dr. Seuss as The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who sets off to save a speck of dust containing The Whos from destruction. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, imagination, loyalty, and community are challenged and emerge victorious. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B27.

FILM

‘Freaky Friday’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Freaky Friday on June 9 at noon. Dr. Tess Coleman and her teenage daughter Anna have one thing in common: they don’t relate to each other on anything. Then one Friday night they find themselves trapped inside each other’s body. Literally forced to walk in each other’s shoes, will they gain respect and understanding for the other’s point of view? Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Lenny Bruno Farms hosts its 3rd annual strawberry festival on June 8 and 9.

Save the date! Lenny Bruno Farms, 740 Wading River Road, Manorville will hold their third annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Festival-goers can look forward to exploring a wide variety of offerings, including mouthwatering treats from food trucks and artisan vendors, live music face painting, miniature pony rides, and engaging activities for children, teens, and adults. The jumbo garden games add an extra layer of fun for families to enjoy together. Admission to the festival area is $10 per person. Children 2 and under are free. 

For those looking to get their hands on the freshest strawberries, the strawberry u-pick area offers an additional adventure. Admission to the u-pick area is $10 per person, which includes one pint of strawberries. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic hayride to the u-pick area, providing unique photo opportunities for families and friends to capture cherished memories.

“We’re thrilled to welcome visitors to our 3rd annual Strawberry Festival,” said Dominick Bruno, owner at Lenny Bruno Farms. “This event is a celebration of all things strawberry, and we’re excited to offer a range of activities and experiences for our guests to enjoy. From live music to strawberry picking, there’s something for everyone to savor.”

The farm will host a series of events through the Fall including a Sweet Summerfest on Aug. 3 and 4. For a full line-up, visit www.LennyBrunoFarms.com/events.

More festivals ….

St. James Strawberry Festival

St. James Episcopal Church, 490 North Country Road, St. James will host their annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Featuring raffle baskets, baked goods, garden table, lunch, antiques, Grandpa’s Garage, children’s activities, church and cemetery tours and, of course, strawberry treats! 631-584-5560

Mattituck Strawberry Festival

The 69th annual Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival, 1105 North Road, Mattituck will be held on June 12 and 13 from 5 to 10 p.m., June 14 from 5 to 11 p.m., June 15 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and June 16 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Highlights include strawberry shortcake, strawberries dipped in chocolate, live music, crowning of the Strawberry Queen, over 100 arts and craft vendors, carnival rides, food and fireworks on June 14, 15 and 16 (weather permitting). Admission varies based on festival days. www.mattituckstrawberryfestival.com

Rocky Point Strawberry Festival 

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 716 Route 25A, Rocky Point presents their annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with craft vendors, delicious food and desserts, bake sale, HUGE Tag Sale, gift basket raffles, and children’s activities. 631-744-9355

Pick Your Own Strawberries..

The following farms on the North Shore offer u-pick strawberries in mid-June. Always call before you go to check availability. 

• Anderson Farms, 1890 Roanoke Ave., Riverhead. 631-727-2559 or 631-727-1129

• Hodun Farms, 4070 Middle Country Rd., Calverton. 631-369-3533

• Domaleski Farms, Route 48, Mattituck. 631-734-6886

• Harbes Family Farm, 715 Sound Ave., Mattituck. 631-298-0800

• Wickham’s Fruit Farm, 28700 Rte. 25, Cutchogue. 632-734-6441

• Lewins Farms, 812 Sound Ave., Calverton. 631-929-4327

• Rottkamp’s Fox Hollow Farm, 2287 Sound Ave., Baiting Hollow. 631-727-1786

• Windy Acres, 3810 Middle Country Road, Calverton. 631-727-4554

  Patty’s Berries and Bunches, 410 Sound Ave., Mattituck. 631-655-7996

• Condzella’s Farm, 6233 North Country Road, Wading River. 631-929-4697

• Golden Acres Organic Farm, 652 Peconic Bay Blvd., Riverhead. 631-722-3302

Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim visits Mt. Pleasant Elementary School to see its new recyclable garden beds. Photo courtesy of Smithtown CSD

Town of Smithtown Supervisor Edward Wehrheim said he was amazed at what’s growing at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School.

“I’m coming back when there are cucumbers to pick,” he told the students.

The Town of Smithtown, Reworld Waste and the Smithtown Central School District teamed up to create the new garden. Kathy Smerechniak, the STEM specialist at Mt. Pleasant, has been working with the student council to nurture plants from seeds under grow lights.

Students have been actively involved in the maintenance of plants and have spent time learning about the life cycle of plants in their science curriculum.

On May 22, Wehrheim, Town Public Information Officer Nicole Garguilo, and Reworld staff visited the garden to see the students’ thriving plants in the garden beds. The vegetables grown in this garden will be donated to the local food pantry.

The garden beds, made from recycled material, were donated by Reworld along with seeds, compost, solar-powered water timers, and an irrigation system. The Town of Smithtown will continue to support Smithtown schools to advocate for additional opportunities at other elementary schools to develop similar projects.

By Julianne Mosher

What if Snow White, Cinderella and Briar Rose didn’t get their happy endings? Snow White would have been poisoned by the apple, Cinderella forever a maid and Briar Rose would sleep until eternity. These fairy tales have had dozens of interpretations each throughout the years, but one thing is common — there is always a happily ever after. 

But Theatre Three is taking it a step further and switching it up. Making its world premiere, The Mystery of the Missing Ever After, written by Jeffrey Hoffman, Douglas J. Quattrock and Jeffrey Sanzel, brings in a bit of mystery with a lot of original music. 

Directed by Sanzel, the show starts off with what the three princess’ lives looked like after the final chapter closed. Cinderella (Veronica Fox) runs a show emporium, Snow White (Julia Albino) has opened a laundry service with the dwarves and Briar Rose (aka the Sleeping Beauty and played by Cassidy Rose O’Brien) has a successful meditation business, helping other fairytale and folklore creatures calm down. 

They live with their princes, Adrian, Basil and Constantine (all performed by Sean Amato) who each have their own quirky personalities but support their wives. 

In town, we’re introduced to other members of the community including the formerly evil Rumpelstiltskin (Steven Uihlein) who says he changed his ways and now helps children by buying them food and toys. Alice — formerly of Wonderland and played by Louisa Bikowski — now runs a retrieval agency, Alice’s Wonderland Wonders, and her colleague, the White Rabbit (Jason Furnari) struggles with severe anxiety and seeks out help from Briar Rose. 

As the play goes on, the princesses’ start to realize odd things happening — apples appearing out of nowhere, Briar falling asleep at any given moment and Cinderella loses her beautiful blue gown (one of many stunning costumes courtesy of Jason Allyn), transforming into her former self wearing an apron covered in ash. Soon after, their princes begin to forget who they are. That being the final straw, the three then decide that they need to figure out what is going on and why.

Along the way, they meet other favorite characters from different children’s books including Peter Pan (Liam Marsigliano), Little Red Riding Hood (Gina Lardi) and Puss in Boots (Kaitlyn Jehle), just to name a few. 

With the help of families in the audience, the mystery of the stolen happily ever after is solved — and it’s quite the surprise of who’s behind it. 

With a solid score of 12 original songs, written by Hoffman and Quattrock, and performed by this stellar cast, there is something for everyone here. Although it’s caters to young children, parents and older siblings will not be disappointed, either. 

So, get your glass slippers on and head down to Theatre Three in Port Jefferson to see this unique, fun, entertaining and awesome play. Stop by the lobby on your way out for a group photo with the cast.

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents The Mystery of the Missing Ever After through June 15. Costumes are encouraged. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.