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Catch a screening of "The LEGO Movie' at the Cinema Arts Centre on Feb. 18.
PROGRAMS

First Steps Into Nature 

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents First Steps Into Nature: Fun with Feathers on Feb. 16 at 9:30 a.m. Children ages 2 to 4 years of age will learn about the wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities, live animals, crafts, and much more. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Superheroes of the Sky

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for Superheroes of the Sky on Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to noon. Take a walking tour with Jim while he feeds the Center’s Birds of Prey and tells you about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild. You’ll be seeing and learning about a Bald Eagle, Turkey Vultures, owls, hawks and many more. $10 per adult/$5 per child. Register at www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Vanderbilt Winter Workshops

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Education Department, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents Polar Bears & Snow Globes for preschool children and their caregivers on Feb. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon and Animals in Winter & Wonderland Painting for children in grades K through 4 on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon with visits to the wildlife dioramas and creative projects. Tickets are $20, $18 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Winter Discovery Days

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown offers daily natural science programs from Feb. 19 to Feb. 23 for children ages 6 to 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Each day will be a different natural science theme chock-filled with fun hands-on activities, interaction with our residents, non-releasable wildlife, crafts, games, and much more. Parents can register their child/children for one day, two days, three days, four days, or the entire week. $95/day or $400/week. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-929-6344

Winter Break on the Farm

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket offers a Winter Break Camp from Feb. 19 to Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for ages 6 to 14. Come spend some winter days on a working farm! Perhaps you would like to know how to make Maple Syrup? Dress warm and come to the farm and find out! Campers are assured of a wonderful and entertaining winter experience. Come play, come learn! $85/day, $230 for three days. To register, visit www.bennersfarm.com or call 631-689-8172.

February Break at the Hatchery

Join Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for February Break from Feb. 19 to 23. Paint with ice,  make snow that won’t melt, make gooey slime, meet reptiles and amphibians and more. Activities are free with paid admission of $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. No reservations required. For a full schedule and times of events, visit www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768

Space Explorers Adventure Camp

Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson offers a Space Explorers Adventure Camp for winter break from Feb. 19 to Feb. 23 from 9 a.m. to noon for grades 3 to 6. Dive into the world of robotic space exploration, tour the solar system and learn from NASA satellites. Cost is $400/week, $270 for three days (Wed to Fri). Register at www.longislandexplorium.org. 631-331-3277

World Whale Celebration

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor for a World Whale Celebration on Feb. 20 at noon and again at 2 p.m. From blue whales to belugas, you’ll have a whale of a time celebrating these awesome mammals in honor of World Whale Day! See and touch real whale bones 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 members. ​No registration needed. 631-367-3418

Crafternoon at the Library

Looking for something to do during Winter Break? Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket hosts a Crafternoon on Feb. 22. Stop by anytime between 2 and 4 p.m. to create a work of art out of upcycled materials and make your own masterpiece. The possibilities are endless…what will you make? No need to register. For ages 3 to 12 years old (supervision may be needed). Open to all. 631-941-4080

THEATER

‘Frozen Jr.’

Frozen Jr. returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on weekends from Jan. 27 to March 3. The magical land of Arendelle comes to life onstage. 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 including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “For the First Time in Forever” and “Let It Go.” With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

A Royal Princess Party

Sing along with a princess during winter break as the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown hosts A Royal Princess Party from Feb. 17 to 25 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Royal Historians will guide you through meeting each of the princesses, teaching the morals behind each of their stories and singing along to their favorite songs. Be sure to wear your best royal attire — this is going to be one party you don’t want to miss! Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for an unforgettable trip down the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 21 to March 16 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 25 at 11 a.m  Enjoy a grand-new take on this classic tale features an original score, memorable characters, and fun for the entire family — a delightful reminder that “there’s no place like home!” All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

FILM

‘The LEGO Movie’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of The LEGO Movie on Feb. 18 at noon. The first-ever full-length theatrical LEGO movie follows Emmet an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the most extraordinary person (the MasterBuilder) and the key to saving his LEGO world. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

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The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.
The Long Island Pet Expo returns on March 2 and 3.

Popular Pet Showcase Features Entertainment, Education & Shopping

The Long Island Pet Expo returns to Suffolk County Community College, 1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood on March 2 and 3 with fur flying entertainment, dog sporting competitions and educational programs designed for the whole family. The event returns to the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena and features many special attractions, pet adoptions and outstanding shopping for pet lovers and their pets.

“The Long Island area is passionate about animals and pets of all kinds,” said show co-producer Karen Garetano of Family Pet Shows, which runs several similar events in the northeast.

The 100+ special exhibits always feature some of the hottest new products coming out often before they hit the retail shelves. Pets on leashes are always welcome, and several area rescue groups with adoptable pets will be on hand. Popular performers and presenters include Gail Mirabella and the Dynamo Dogs, Diana Frohman and her Beautiful Dancing Dogs, Schutzhund Demonstration by Maximum K9 Service, the Dog Lovers Days Lure Course, Rainforest Reptiles Shows, TICA Championship Cat Shows, Rabbit Hopping, the Long Island Dog Derby and more

“We always have fun at these events, but we also are strong supporters of responsible pet ownership and humane values when it comes to all issues involving animals and pets,” said Garetano. “We partner with several community organizations, shelters, veterinarians and other animal lovers educate and inform when it comes to best practices for training, feeding and all aspects of pet care.”

Community and rescue organizations will be participating in the show where attendees can learn about pet adoptions as well as responsible ownership and care.

The event is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees over the weekend. Adult admission is $15, Kids 4-11 are $6, and those three years old and under are always free. Saturday March 2nd the hours are 10 am to 7 pm, and on Sunday, March 3rd, from 10 am to 5pm. For additional information, call 631-423-0620 or visit www.familypetshows.com.

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Note: Attendees are welcome to bring their well-behaved pets to the expo. There are some regulations and restrictions-please check our website at www.familypetshows.com or contact us directly.

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Stanley the Fox. Photo from Long Island Game Farm
New education programs connect kids to nature
As schools are preparing for their first long break of the year, the Long Island Game Farm in Manorville is inviting families and visitors of all ages to spend time at the farm with the animals, like Nala the African serval cat, Stanley the fox, lemurs, goats, and more.
Nala the African serval cat. Photo from the Long Island Game Farm

The game farm is also offering special programming for infants to children age 12 during the break, beginning February 19. Kids can learn how animals prepare for winter, including adaptations, migration, and hibernation; sketch some of the resident animals; and engage in imaginative play using stuffed animals, music, and dance.

These programs will be presented by the Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability, the game farm’s nonprofit arm that aims to connect people with wildlife and the natural environment through awareness activities and engaging experiences.

“We’re thrilled to offer families educational and fun experiences during February break this year,” shares Long Island Game Farm president Melinda Novak. “The Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability’s programming at the game farm encourages children and adults alike to foster an appreciation for nature through engaging experiences. We also have a great education team to lead these programs, so we’re very excited for all to come this year.”

Animals in Winter – Monday, February 19 @ 9 a.m.

In this program for children ages 5 to 7, educator James Carey will discuss how animals prepare for winter using adaptations, migration and/or hibernation. The fee is $35 per child.

Animals in Winter – Monday, February 19 @ 1 p.m.

In this program for children ages 8 to 12, educator James Carey will discuss how animals prepare for winter using adaptations, migration and/or hibernation. The fee is $35 per child.

Sketch the Animals – Wednesday, February 21 @ 10:30 a.m.

Bring your sketch pad and drawing tools to the Long Island Game Farm’s Woodland Hall to see and sketch select resident animals up close. For ages 8 and up. The fee is $25 per person.

Make Music with Ms. Jenna – Friday, February 23 @ 10:30 a.m.

Spark imagination and create music using stuffed animals, song, and dance in this program for children up to age 5. The fee is $20 per child and adult. Each additional child is $10.

Registration is required and can be booked online at longislandgamefarm.com or by calling 631-878-6644.

For those that wish to spend more time at the game farm, attendees to these classes will receive half-off admission for the day of class. The teacher or staff will meet students at the ticket booth.

Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville will be open on weekends in February and for winter break from Monday, February 19 through Sunday, February 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All paying guests will receive a free cup of animal food in February. For more information, call 631-88-6644 or visit www.longislandgamefarm.com.

 

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From left, regional winners Jonathan Zhang, Mehek Sawhney and Kevin Ma. Photo courtesy Commack CSD

Three Commack students have been selected to present their research as regional semifinalists for the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium taking place on Feb. 11.

The Junior Science and Humanities Symposia Program is a tri-service – U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force – sponsored competition which promotes original research and experimentation in STEM at the high school level and publicly recognizes students for outstanding achievement. Students must apply to present their completed original research at the first level of the fair, held at York College. 

The three projects moving forward to compete for scholarships, recognition and a place as a regional finalist are:

Jonathan Zhang

Efficient Differentiation of Sleep-Related Hypermotor Epilepsy and REM-Sleep Behavior Disorder via Neural Aperiodic Components

Jonathan used a mathematical formula to evaluate EEG brain activity to diagnose sleep disorders in two minutes vs. 8 hours of sleep studies.

Kevin Ma

Decreased Immune Activation Drives the Differential Therapeutic Responses to Chemoradiotherapy Between HPV+ Head and Neck Cancers and HPV+ Cervical Cancers

Kevin investigated two forms of cancers to differentiate where the cancer originated and if it tied back to the HPV+ to provide individualized immunotherapy based on the type of cancer and the tumor environment. 

Mehek Sawhney

Secretion of Francisella tularensis Protein FTL_1123 from Escherichia coli Containing the HlyBD Operon

Mehek studied the structure of a certain bacteria that can be used in biological Tier 1 warfare. She investigated how  the bacteria secretes these virulent factors, and a way to prevent it from being released as a threat.

Please extend your congratulations to these students for this well-deserved and hard-earned recognition, and also to the Research team of Jeanette Collette, Daniel Kramer, and Andrea Beatty.

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Catch a performance of 'Frozen Jr.' at the Engeman Theater this weekend. The show runs through March 3. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater

PROGRAMS

Kids Craft Day

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor hosts a Kids Craft Day from Feb. 10 to 14. Drop by between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to make a Valentine’s Day craft to take home. While supplies last. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Super Bowl ‘Saturday’

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket hosts a Super Bowl “Saturday” event on Feb. 10. Get excited for the big game! Elementary-aged kids and their families are welcome to stop by anytime between 2 and 4 p.m. to enjoy football-themed festivities. Includes a raffle to win a special prize. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite team’s jersey or football-themed attire. There is no registration for this event, and it is geared towards children in kindergarten through 6th grade. 631-941-4080

Lunar New Year at the Vanderbilt

Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport in celebrating the Year of the Dragon on Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. Make a paper lantern, learn Chinese calligraphy, create a traditional good luck decoration, and visit the collections to see one of the animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Tickets are $20 guests,  $18 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Family Hour Sunday

Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington presents a special Family Hour Sunday in both Spanish and English on  Feb. 11 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 5 through 10 are invited for a family-friendly art experience with educators Tami Wood and Karina Giménez. Explore works of art in the Museum and create fun art projects! $10 per child, adults free. Registration recommended by visiting www.heckscher.org. 631-380-3230.

Storytime Under Stars

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Storytime Under the Stars series on Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. Your favorite bedtime storybooks come to life in the planetarium theater! Children ages 2 and older are invited to wear their most comfy pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed animal. Tickets are $8 for guests, $6 for members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Feb. 12 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008

The Phases of Water

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents Tiny Tots program titled The Phases of Water on Feb. 15 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy short walks, story time, animal visitors, and crafts. For children ages 3 to 5. $4 per child. Advance registration required by calling 631-269-4333. 

THEATER

‘Frozen Jr.’

Frozen Jr. returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on weekends from Jan. 27 to March 3. The magical land of Arendelle comes to life onstage. 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 including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “For the First Time in Forever” and “Let It Go.” With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

A Royal Princess Party

Sing along with a princess during winter break as the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown hosts A Royal Princess Party from Feb. 17 to 25 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Royal Historians will guide you through meeting each of the princesses, teaching the morals behind each of their stories and singing along to their favorite songs. Be sure to wear your best royal attire — this is going to be one party you don’t want to miss! You’ll love this heartwarming celebration filled with stories, songs and special guests. Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for an unforgettable trip down the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 21 to March 16 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 25 at 11 a.m  Enjoy a grand-new take on this classic tale features an original score, memorable characters, and fun for the entire family — a delightful reminder that “there’s no place like home!” All seats are $12. To order, calll 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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A rendering of the new Ronald McDonald House building to be constructed in Stony Brook.

Ronald McDonald House Charities NY Metro (RMHC NYM) announced on Feb. 1 that it will break ground for a new Ronald McDonald House in Suffolk County on April 17, having raised more than $23 million for the project.

“We are thrilled to have achieved this milestone as we push toward making the dream of a Ronald McDonald House a reality for Suffolk County families,” said Cynthia Lippe, who is heading the fundraising effort. “We thank those who have supported us and urge others to join us in this most noble of efforts.”

The new, three-story, 60,000 sq. ft. Ronald McDonald House will be located within walking distance to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and will be the only one in Suffolk County. It will join two family rooms located at Stony Brook, in the Children’s Hospital (opened in 2013) and the Hospital NICU (opened in 2022). The house will include 30 bedrooms that include ensuite bathrooms, a communal dining room, a movie theater and fitness room, administrative offices and a great room designed with children in mind.

“The Suffolk County Ronald McDonald House has been a vision of ours for many years and is needed to help so many families who travel from the farthest ends of Suffolk to find the medical care their children need,” said Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NYM. “We’re thrilled to see the end in sight and get ready for construction next year.”

“The new Ronald McDonald House will provide a safe, secure and comfortable environment for families of children who are hospitalized at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital,” said Carol Gomes, chief executive officer of Stony Brook University Hospital. “We are grateful for our long-standing partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities NY Metro. The facility underscores Stony Brook Medicine’s commitment to offer exceptional care to meet the needs of our patients and their families.”

About Ronald McDonald House Charities NY Metro 

Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro (RMHC NYM) provides free lodging, meals, and emotional support to keep families seeking medical treatment for their sick children near the care they need and the families they love.

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Superintendent Losquadro reveals Holtsville Hal’s prognostication to the crowd at the Holtsville Ecology Site. Photo from TOB
Superintendent Losquadro reveals Holtsville Hal’s prognostication to the crowd at the Holtsville Ecology Site. Photo from TOB

Suffolk County’s most famous weatherman did not disappoint. This morning, at 7:25 a.m., before a crowd of several hundred spectators, Holtsville Hal awoke from his slumber and did not see his shadow, predicting an early spring for the Town of Brookhaven.

According to tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow after emerging from his burrow on Groundhog Day, there will be six more weeks of winter weather; if not, spring should arrive early.

Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro read from Hal’s official prognostication: “…At sunrise, the sky was filled with more than one cloud, And so I hope your cheers will be quite loud. I did NOT see my shadow in the early morning hours, And so the wait will not be long until we see flowers. Sun and warm temperatures the next few weeks will bring, I hope everyone enjoys this year’s early Spring!”

“Thankfully, after a wet and rainy January, Hal has given us a sunny outlook for the remainder of this winter season,” Losquadro said.  “Regardless, the Brookhaven Highway Department is prepared, as always, for whatever Mother Nature sends our way.”

Holtsville Hal is just one of the more than 100 animals who reside at the Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve.  The center, which is open all year-round, includes a wildlife preserve, greenhouses, gardens, and jogging and exercise trails. For more information, visit www.brookhavenny.gov or call 631-451-5330.

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'Frozen Jr.' continues at the Engeman through Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Catch a performance of 'Frozen Jr.' at the Engeman Theater this weekend. The show runs through March 3. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Mia Ponticelli as Elsa in a scene from the show. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater

By Julianne Mosher

The John W. Engeman Theater’s latest production of Frozen Jr. will give you chills.

Directed and choreographed by Keith Jones, costumes and wigs by Laura McGauley, and production/set design by Orion Forte, you’ll be taken into a winter wonderland as soon as you step into the Northport-based theater. With a solid cast of children doing Broadway-level work, the production showcases an extremely talented cast who clearly love what they do and are having a blast. 

The story follows two inseparable sisters who are princesses in the kingdom of Arendelle. The eldest, Elsa (Mia Ponticelli), was born with magical powers that allow her to create ice and snow. But as a young child, she doesn’t know how to control her powers and while playing and building a snowman with her sister, Anna (Gabby Blum), she accidentally hurts her. 

While Anna is healed by the mysterious Hidden Folk (spiritual forest people), their parents decide it would be best to protect Anna by keeping the two apart.

Anna has no memory of the accident and does not understand why her sister avoids her, locked away in her room wearing her silk gloves. A few years later, while the parents are lost at sea, Elsa continues to stay away, keeping her secret hidden from her sister and the outside world, afraid to harm another person again.

Ten years have passed and it is time for Elsa to become Queen, but on coronation day her magic unintentionally brings an eternal winter to the kingdom. Accused of sorcery by Anna’s fiancé, Hans (Liam Polani), she flees into the mountains to hide. Anna enlists the help of Kristoff (Quinn Oliver Lessing) the icemaker to help her find her sister and free Arendelle from the spell. This is a true story of love and acceptance that will thaw the coldest of hearts.

Blum and Ponticelli’s parts are not easy. Originally played in the movie by Kristen Bell and Broadway legend Idina Menzel, the songs require a lot of training and breathwork — both of which these young starlets have. 

But we can’t forget two supporting characters who bring a lot of laughs — Sven, (Brady Goldman and Liam Von Schmidt, interchangeably), and the lovable Olaf (Michael Deaner and Luca Silva) who loves warm hugs. 

In the sold-out audience during the Sunday, Jan. 28 performance, young ticket holders dressed head to toe in their favorite Frozen attire — many Elsa’s, Anna’s and even an Olaf. That being said, when Elsa does a quick change at the end of “Let It Go” into her signature sparkling blue gown, the audience gasped and applauded. 

The set is minimal, but is welcomed by animated projections on a screen towards the back of the stage depicting different locations in the Kingdom of Arendelle including the inside and outside of the castle, the snowy mountains and Elsa’s ice castle. You might even see some real-life snow fall. 

When the show is over, a great photo opportunity is available in the lobby with the entire cast of the show. The cast will even sign autographs.

Overall, this family-friendly production tells the tale of love, loss, friendship and family, with plenty of laughs in between. Don’t miss out. 

Frozen Jr. will run until March 3. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at www.engemantheater.com, or by visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street in Northport.

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YEAR OF THE DRAGON Celebrate Lunar New Year at the Heckscher Museum of Art on Feb. 3. Photo courtesy of Heckscher Museum
PROGRAMS

Groundhog Day celebration

The Town of Brookhaven will host its annual Groundhog Day Celebration at the Holtsville Ecology Center, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville on Feb. 2 starting at 7 a.m. Come meet Holtsville Hal and find out what his shadow foretells. Then grab some hot chocolate and visit with more than 100 animals that call the Ecology Center home. Free. For more information, call 451-5330 for more information.

Night at the Museum

Explore, learn, and lay after hours at the Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson during its Night at the Museum event on Feb. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. Children in grades 2 to 5 will enjoy pizza, play at the museum after-hours and participate in a fun STEM-themed activity. $40 per child. To register, visit www.longislandexplorium.org. 631-331-3277

Science Pioneers

In honor of Black History Month, Nissequogue River State Park, 799 St. Johnland Road, Kings Park presents a family program, Science Pioneers, on Feb. 3 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Foundations of modern science are known thanks to the contributions of Black scientists. Come see exciting science experiments relating to their discoveries! For ages 6 and up. $4 per person. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com. 631-269-4927

Tracks and Traces

Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown presents  Tracks and Traces on Feb. 3 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Children become nature detectives as they unravel clues left behind by park wildlife. Create a book of local animal tracks. $4 per child. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com.

Lunar New Year at the Heckscher

Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington presents a Lunar Year Celebration on Feb. 3 from noon to 5 p.m. Get creative and enjoy a variety of hands-on holiday activities from different Asian cultures. Meet artist Joan Kim Suzuki, see her artwork inspired by her Korean heritage, and create a Korean drum and fan! Enjoy beautiful traditional Chinese dances by Wendi Weng. Create origami with Hansen Lee and learn about Chinese culture with Patricia Shih. Free. No registration required. Questions? Call 631-380-3230.

Narwhal Ball

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St. Cold Spring Harbor hosts its annual Narwhal Ball on Feb. 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The whole family is invited to a wintry celebration! Explore the world of polar sea creatures through special activities and presentations. Gather around for “Storytime with Elsa” as she shares tales from her icy domain and meet the icy queen herself to snap a photo. Indulge in an icy treat with ice cream sponsored by Kilwin’s of Huntington. Create frosty crafts to take home with you. Tickets online (through Feb. 2) are $20 age 2-17 (all access) $8 adults, $6 seniors at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org; Door tickets are $25 ages 2-17 (all access) $8 adults, $6 seniors. 631-367-3418.

A Groundhog Adventure

Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for Sunday Funday: Searching for Sweetbriar Sam — A Groundhog Adventure on Feb. 4 from 1 to 3 p.m. Meet some of Sweetbriar’s resident animals and do some fun activities while learning all about groundhogs and their friends. Tickets are $15 per child, $5 adult at www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Black History Month Hike

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a self-guided hike for Black History Month on Feb. 4 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. 10 stations along this hike feature a Black environmentalist and their contributions to science. Stop by the Nature Center for a map of the self-guided trail. Free. Reservations taken on eventbrite.com. 631-269-4333. 

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Feb. 5 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008

Super Bowl ‘Saturday’

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket hosts a Super Bowl “Saturday” event on Feb. 10. Get excited for the big game! Elementary-aged kids and their families are welcome to stop by anytime between 2 and 4 p.m. to enjoy football-themed festivities. Includes a raffle to win a special prize. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite team’s jersey or football-themed attire. There is no registration for this event, and it is geared towards children in kindergarten through 6th grade. 631-941-4080

Lunar New Year at the Vanderbilt

Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport in celebrating the Year of the Dragon on Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. Make a paper lantern, learn Chinese calligraphy, create a traditional good luck decoration, and visit the collections to see one of the animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Tickets are $20 guests,  $18 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Storytime Under Stars

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Storytime Under the Stars series on Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. Your favorite bedtime storybooks come to life in the planetarium theater! Children ages 2 and older are invited to wear their most comfy pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed animal. Tickets are $8 for guests, $6 for members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

THEATER

‘Frozen Jr.’

Frozen Jr. returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on weekends from Jan. 27 to March 3. 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 including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “For the First Time in Forever” and “Let It Go.” All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B18.

‘Jack and the Beanstalk’

Children’s theater continues at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Jack and the Beanstalk — or The Boy Who Cried “Giant!” from Jan. 20 to Feb. 3. A handful of magic beans starts our hero and his best friend, Filpail the Cow, on one of the best-remembered adventures. Come explore the Castle in the Sky with Jack as he learns the importance of truth-telling in a hilarious original musical for the entire family. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

A Royal Princess Party

Sing along with a princess during winter break as the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown hosts A Royal Princess Party from Feb. 17 to 25 with a sensory sensitive performance on Feb. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Royal Historians will guide you through meeting each of the princesses, teaching the morals behind each of their stories and singing along to their favorite songs. Be sure to wear your best royal attire — this is going to be one party you don’t want to miss! You’ll love this heartwarming celebration filled with stories, songs and special guests. Tickets are $16 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

FILM
Catch a screening of ‘Wallace & Gromit: The Case of the Were-Rabbit at the Cinema Arts Centre on Feb. 4.

‘Wallace & Gromit’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Wallace & Gromit: The Case of the Were-Rabbit on Feb. 4 at noon. Daffy, cheese-loving inventor Wallace and his faithful dog Gromit become heroes in stopping a crime spree. They learn that a giant, fuzzy creature is stealing the town’s produce and the not-completely-dynamic duo set out to capture the beast and save the day. Rated G. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

DANCE

‘Swan Lake Act II’

Ballet Long Island, 1863 Pond Road, Ronkonkoma will present a performance of Swan Lake Act II on Feb 7 at 11 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. and Feb. 10 at 1 p.m. Dazzling white and beautiful best describe the second act of the most classical of all classical ballets: Swan Lake, choreographed to Tchaikovsky’s brilliant music. Tickets are $20 adult, $10 senior citizen, $10 children. To order, call 631-737-1984 or visit www.balletlongisland.com

 

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Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC NY Metro receives a check from Chris Murray/Vice President of Marketing at Island Federal. Photo courtesy of Island Federal

Island Federal Credit Union (Island Federal) closed out 2023 by donating to Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro (RMHC NYM) to support their work with families that have a child receiving emergency medical care.

Island Federal donated $20,000 to support the construction of a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. Also, through the generosity of its employees and members, Island Federal presented more than 10 boxes of toys and games for families staying at RMHC NYM facilities to make their children’s holiday a little more enjoyable.

“Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro does an amazing job serving families who have seriously ill children, both at their house in New Hyde Park and at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital through their Family Rooms,” said Chris Murray, VP/Marketing, Island Federal. “When we heard that they were launching a capital campaign to build a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Hospital, we were anxious to help.”

“We have seen the number of families that we serve in Suffolk County continue to grow and so a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Hospital is essential to supporting families there,” said Matt Campo, CEO, RMHC NY Metro. “This new house will provide comfort and overnight accommodations just like our New Hyde Park house, offering the parents and siblings of these children a temporary haven in a secure and comfortable environment among other families sharing a similar burden.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro (RMHC NYM) provides free lodging, meals, and emotional support to keep families seeking medical treatment for their sick children near the care they need and the families they love.

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