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June Squibb and Fred Hechinger in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Grandparent Scams — often referred to as “Gram Scams” — most commonly take the form of a young man calling with an urgent financial crisis (overdue rent, car repairs, accident, jail bond) and requesting gift cards, a money transfer, or some other mode that does not require identification to collect. Elder fraud has sharply increased, with $3.4 billion in losses in 2023 (up 11% from the year before). 

Thelma, the wonderful film written and directed by Josh Margolin, follows 93-year-old Thelma Post (June Squibb) as she embarks on a quest to recover a scammed $10,000. The simple, linear storyline opens with the nonagenarian coached by her loving grandson (Fred Hechinger) on how to scroll through emails. She is simultaneously independent and reliant on the support of her family. When the police cannot help recover her ten grand, she takes matters into her own hands.

A plot of this nature could easily devolve into a series of comic capers, forced hijinks, and geriatric jokes. Instead, Margolin skillfully opts for a quieter, more methodical, and ultimately honest approach. Thelma first attempts to reach out to friends for help and discovers in a montage of phone calls that most are ill or dead. The awareness is one of many beautifully crafted “ah-hah” beats in a film that never skews to the easy choice.

Eventually, she teams up with the initially reluctant Ben (Richard Roundtree), a friend residing comfortably in an assisted living/nursing home. Using Ben’s two-person scooter, their first stop is the home of their friend Mona (Bunny Levine). In one of the most subtlety touching but equally raw scenes, neglect and isolation are brought into clear focus. (Levine is flawless in her few minutes of screen time.) 

Running parallel is Danny’s story, with his protective but often disappointed parents, Gail (Parker Posey) and Alan (Clark Gregg). As they hover and worry over Thelma, they also fret about the underachieving Danny, who cannot get his life together. The brittle family dynamic plays an important part of the action and the resolution. 

Thelma is peppered with “don’t-I-know-you” encounters that reflect decades of living but also loss. The screenplay is smart, sharp, and wholly sincere without ever being saccharine or sentimental. Lines that would seem predictable or even pablum resonate: “I didn’t expect to get so old” is not a lament but a statement of fact. This approach to reality is a hallmark of the film’s delicate blend of humor and poignancy. And Thelma is truly funny, with many laugh-out-loud flashes but none that ever cross into farce. (The production of Annie, in which Ben stars as Daddy Warbucks, is hilarious but not ridiculous.) The use of cell phones connected to hearing aids seems almost like a bit, but later comes into important play. Nothing in Thelma ever feels less than truthful. 

June Squibb’s early career included appearances on Broadway in Gypsy (1959), The Happy Time (1968), and The Public Good (1975). Her first television role was in a 1985 CBS Schoolbreak Special and her film debut was in Woody Allen’s Alice (1990). Her many appearances made her a reliable and recognizable character actor, with a breakthrough in Alexander Payne’s Nebraska, where she played opposite Bruce Dern. She received over two dozen nominations, including one for an Academy Award. With Thelma, she will most likely receive equal accolades and a second nomination if not a win. The 93-year-old Squibb (who cameos as the voice of Nostalgia in Inside Out 2) offers a nuanced, touching, and completely connected performance. She is incapable of anything less than being fully present with each triumph and setback. Squibb’s Thelma is unmatchable and so far one of the year’s strongest performances. 

In his final role, Richard Roundtree gives Ben true dimension. Best known as Detective John Shaft from the 1971 film Shaft and its numerous sequels, Roundtree infuses Ben with a mix of insight and melancholy, somehow showing contentment and resignation. He and Squibb seamlessly present the tenuous connection that grows to a newfound affection. In one of the most memorable interactions, a fall leads to a scene of deepest compassion and, even more so, understanding. 

As the grandson, Hechinger avoids the usual slacker traps by balancing familial love with barely masked anxiety. Posey and Gregg’s parents come across as slightly goofy, but their palpable concern gives weight to their frustrations. Nicole Byer and Quinn Beswick elevate the minor supporting roles of assisted living staff. Malcolm McDowell offers levels in what could be a one-note performance.  

Thelma is not The Golden Girls or the lowest-common-denominator of “Where’s the Beef?” Age is central but not an easy punchline. Thelma is heartfelt and sometimes painful — it confronts hard truths even in its lightest moments. But it is a memorable journey and certainly one worth taking.

Rated PG-13, Thelma is now playing in local theaters.

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Eden Campbell, center, won the top spot among kindergarten projects. Photo by Kevin Coughlin/BNL
Eden Campbell
Milan Patel
Advika Arun
Isla Cone
Jude Roseto
Luke Dinsman
Owen Stone

More than 250 students from 65 Suffolk County schools entered science projects in the 2024 Elementary School Science Fair hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory on June 8.

Students used the scientific method to explore all kinds of questions about their favorite things and the world around them. The annual fair organized by Brookhaven Lab’s Office of Educational Programs celebrated and showcased all projects submitted, ranging from finding the best detangler for Barbie dolls’ hair to using a hand-crafted wind tunnel to test wing shapes for the best lift.

“Our judges enjoyed reading through the projects and were impressed with questions, ideas, and designs,” Amanda Horn, a Brookhaven Lab administrator who coordinated the science fair, said before announcing the winning projects. “We certainly have some future scientists and engineers here today.”

Local teachers and Lab staff volunteered as judges to pick the top spots and honorable mentions for each grade level, from kindergarten to sixth grade. The competition also included a Judges’ Choice award for creative questions.

Students who earned first place in their grade level received medals and ribbons, along with banners to hang at their school to recognize the achievement. All participants received a ribbon in recognition of having won their grade level competition at their school.

Science Fair awards

The following students earned first place in their grade level: 

◆ Kindergartener Eden Campbell, Ocean Avenue Elementary School in Northport for “Tasting Color.” Eden’s project explored whether the color of food affects its taste. What was her favorite part of the experiment? “Eating the jellybeans,” she said.

◆ First grader Milan Patel, Ocean Avenue Elementary School in Northport for “How Does the Direction of a House Affect the Amount of Heat Absorbed from the Sun?” 

◆ Second grader Advika Arun, Bretton Woods Elementary School in Hauppauge, for “Slower and Steadier the Safer it Will Be.” For her experiment, Advika crafted small parachutes to test which materials fostered a slow and safe landing. She found that nylon worked the best. “I liked the part where we dropped them and we saw the speed they went,” she said. She added of her first-place win, “I’m really excited!”

◆ Third grader Isla Cone, Love of Learning Montessori School in Centerport, for “The Impact of pH on Boba.” Isla tested food-friendly liquids with different pH levels to find out which could form boba, the round and chewy pearls found in bubble tea. She confirmed that boba spheres occurred in liquids with a pH between 4 and 10. “I wanted to do a project that was related to food,” she said. “My favorite part was getting to eat all the stuff!”

◆ Fourth grader Jude Roseto, Cutchogue East Elementary School in Cutchogue, for “Rise of the Machines: AI vs. Human Creativity Writing.” 

◆ Fifth grader Luke Dinsman, Northport Middle School in Northport, for “Maximizing Moisture — Nature Knows Best.” In his project, Dinsman found that homemade, natural moisturizers worked better than store-bought lotions at treating the dry skin he experiences as a swimmer. A shea body butter with beeswax turned out to be the best option. Making the lotions and testing them was the best part of the process, Luke said. He added, “It’s just a really cool project.”

◆ Sixth grader Owen Stone, East Quogue Elementary in East Quogue for “Can Common Foods Help Grow Potatoes?” 

Judges’ choice

Kindergarten: John Jantzen, Sunrise Drive Elementary School in Sayville

First Grade: Julianna Zick, West Middle Island Elementary School in Middle Island

Second Grade: Timothy Donoghue, Riley Avenue Elementary School in Calverton

Third Grade: Charlotte Sheahan, Pulaski Road School in East Northport

Fourth Grade: Dominick Padolecchia, Sunrise Drive Elementary School in Sayville

Fifth Grade: Isabella Maharlouei, Raynor Country Day School in Speonk

Sixth Grade: Zoe Wood, Northport Middle School in Northport

Honorable mentions

Kindergarten: Michael McCarthy, Pines Elementary School in Smithtown; Scarlett Luna, Hampton Bays Elementary School in Hampton Bays; Autumn Vlacci, Riley Avenue Elementary School in Calverton

First Grade: Tyler Paino, Bretton Woods Elementary School in Hauppauge; Logan Pierre, Brookhaven Elementary School in Brookhaven; Nora Boecherer, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School in Port Jefferson

Second Grade: Charlotte Tholl, Forest Brook Elementary School; Gabi Opisso, Cutchogue East Elementary School in Cutchogue; Matthew Ingram, Ocean Avenue Elementary School in Northport; Erios Pikramenos, Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School in Rocky Point; Maya Salman, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School in Port Jefferson

Third Grade: Emma Puccio Edelman, Hiawatha Elementary School in Lake Ronkonkoma; Vincent Calvanese, Pines Elementary School in Smithtown; Kaylee Krawchuck, Ridge Elementary School in Ridge; Isabella Guldi, Joseph A. Edgar Intermediate School in Rocky Point

Fourth Grade: Juliam Gianmugnai, Ridge Elementary School in Ridge; Joseph Frederick, Lincoln Avenue Elementary School in Sayville; Gabriel Affatato, Pulaski Road School East Northport; Levi Beaver, Raynor Country Day School in Speonk

Fifth Grade: Evangeline Jamros, Edna Louise Spear Elementary in Port Jefferson; Colette Breig, RJO Intermediate School in Kings Park; Riona Mittal, Bretton Woods Elementary School in Hauppauge

Sixth Grade: Eamon Ryan, Lindenhurst Middle School in Lindenhurst; Michael Mineo, Silas Wood 6th Grade Center in Huntington Station; Alex Uihlein, Montauk Public School in Montauk.

Science Fair Expo

While their projects were on display, students and their families browsed a Science Fair Expo that featured up-close, hands-on demonstrations guided by Brookhaven Lab staff, interns, and volunteers.

The activities connected to science concepts and tools found across the Lab, from magnets and particle accelerators to electron microscopy and conductors. Students peered through microscopes, learned how fuel cells and solar panels work, became junior beamline operators, and more.

 

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A scene from a previous Seaglass Festival. Photo courtesy of The Whaling Museum
A scene from a previous Seaglass Festival. Photo courtesy of The Whaling Museum
A scene from a previous Seaglass Festival. Photo courtesy of The Whaling Museum

The Whaling Museum and Education Center in Cold Spring Harbor has announced the return of its Sea Glass Festival, which features an array of new activities and enriched experiences for the 2024 season.

Set to take place on Sunday, July 21, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this popular family-friendly event will celebrate the history, artistry, and allure of sea glass, now with an expanded presence on historic Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor. The event is the only one of its kind in the region and is the museum’s largest community event which welcomes 1,000 attendees. It is supported in part with funds awarded through a grant from Suffolk County Economic Development and Planning.

“We are thrilled to bring Long Island’s exclusive Sea Glass Festival to our community for the third year in a row,” said Nomi Dayan, Executive Director at The Whaling Museum & Education Center. “Sea glass, along with the historic glass bottles in our collection, are unique portals into Long Island’s stories. This year, we are excited to offer a number of expanded opportunities for both adults and children to appreciate and learn about the glass gems created by the ocean that surrounds us.”

Event Highlights:

  • Expert Presentations: Learn about sea glass and historic glass bottles.
  • Live Music: Enjoy tunes by Rorie Kelly.
  • Shopping: Browse booths with sea glass-themed artworks and crafts.
  • Contests & Crafts: Enter the sea glass contest and participate in fun crafts.

The festival will present an extended schedule featuring talks and lectures delivered by sea glass experts, historians, authors, and artists. These engaging sessions will be held in the museum’s gallery and offsite at a neighboring event partner, Preservation Long Island, situated a 5-minute walk from The Whaling Museum.

“Our staff curated an exciting lineup of both returning and new presenters who will provide valuable insights and inspiration to our attendees. Our presenters’ expertise and passion for sea glass and beachcombing will help educate the public on topics such as identifying sea glass, the history of local glass, and the creative applications of sea glass,” said Dayan.

Speaker presentations at Preservation Long Island will take place at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., with two presenters alternating: George Wm Fisher, author of multiple books on Long Island’s bottles and medicine companies, will present at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on “The Origins of Sea Glass.”

Mary McCarthy, Beachcombing Educator and former Executive Director of The Beachcombing Center, will present next at noon and 2 p.m.  on the “Difference between Fake and Genuine Sea Glass.” Mary will also host her celebrated “Beachcombing Table” and offer sea glass identification for the public when she is not presenting.

Examples of Shadow Box Sea Glass Crafts. $10 per participant; All ages welcome.

New for 2024:

  • Expanded Presentations: Lectures on sea glass history at the historic Old Methodist Church, home of Preservation Long Island.
  • Mobile Beachcombing Museum: Explore “Tumbled By The Sea.”
  • Sea Glass Hunt: Find hidden sea glass on Main Street to enter a prize raffle.
  • Shadow Box Craft: Create a unique sea glass craft for $10.
  • Special Drinks: Enjoy sea glass-themed drinks at Sweetie Pies on Main.

 

Additional new activities that extend into historic Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor include: a scavenger hunt down Main Street; an exclusive visit to the Cold Spring Harbor Firehouse Museum; and the option to purchase a new sea glass-themed beverage from Sweetie Pies on Main.

In The Whaling Museum’s gallery, festival attendees can attend new talks held every hour from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Speaker highlights include Amy Dries of “Tumbled by the Sea,” a mobile museum that will be stationed in front of the festival tent, and author and historian Roxie Zwicker who will be discussing her new book, “New England Sea Glass: A Vibrant History.” A full schedule of talks and presentations is available at cshwhalingmuseum.org/seaglass.

Outdoors at the festival, attendees will have the chance to explore the mobile exhibit “Tumbled by the Sea” and take a self-guided tour of this travelling museum, shop with over a dozen artists and exhibitors under the tents including new artists and returning exhibitors, and view glass art torchwork demonstrations with Ro’s Glass World.

Kids can partake in a sea glass scavenger hunt in the museum’s gallery and enjoy complimentary crafts included with admission.

Live music by artist Rorie Kelly will add to the festive atmosphere, who performs fun, family-friendly crowd-pleaser music from the 1950s to today.

Returning again will be the Sea Glass of the Year contest, now featuring a new kids category.

Moreover, this year’s festival introduces a new Sea Glass Writing Contest for Long Island youth in partnership with TBR News Media. Festival attendees can hear the entries of contest winners at the event.

Attendees wanting to explore their creative side can create a new shadow box craft in the museum workshop facilitated by museum educators. Tickets for this add-on craft can be purchased only at the event inside the museum’s gallery.  

When hunger strikes, festival attendees can enjoy offerings from the All-American Wontons food truck which will be on-site or visit any of the restaurants and cafes in Cold Spring Harbor, including Grasso’s Restaurant, Sandbar, Harbor Mist, The Gourmet Whaler and the Cold Spring Harbor Deli.

The Whaling Museum and Education Center is located at 301 Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor. Online tickets for the Sea Glass Festival are priced at a discount for advance purchase at $15 for attendees and $10 for museum members. Door tickets will be available at $20 for attendees and $15 for members. For more information, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org

Get Your Tickets Now:

This article originally appeared in TBR News Media’s Summer Times supplement on June 20.

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A scene from a previous Maker Faire Long Island. Photo courtesy of Long Island Explorium
A scene from a previous Maker Faire Long Island. Photo courtesy of Long Island Explorium
A scene from a previous Maker Faire Long Island. Photo courtesy of Long Island Explorium

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. 

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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.

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BIRDS-EYE VIEW The Bald Hill Fair in Farmingville (May 9 to 19) will feature ‘The Wheel,’ the largest Ferris wheel on Long Island at a towering 110 feet tall. Photo courtesy of Dreamland Amusements
Ongoing

Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall

Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove now through May 14.  Experience the magical moments under the red and white big top with trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers and more! Showtimes are Monday to Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. For tickets visit www.flipcircus.com.

Bald Hill Fair

Dreamland Amusements brings the Bald Hill Fair to the Catholic Health Amphitheater, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville from May 9 to 19 with whimsical kiddie rides, state-of-the-art thrill rides, entertaining midway games, and carnival eats. Fireworks by Grucci will be on May 11 and 18. Hours are Mondays to Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m., Fridays from 5 to 11 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. For tickets in advance, visit www.baldhillfair.com.

Thursday May 9

Health & Wellness Fair

The Town of Brookhaven will host a Health and Wellness Fair at the Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with free balance screenings, blood pressure screenings, food and nutrition education, cholesterol and glucose screenings and more with St. Charles Hospital. Free. For more information, call 631-451-5312.

Lunch & Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch & Learn series with a special screening and discussion of I Now Take Up My Pen at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Presented by the Port Jefferson Historical Society and  the Huntington Historical Society, the film tells the heart wrenching tale of two brothers from Huntington William and Jesse Platt, who served in different NYS Regiments from Long Island. Admission is $45 per person, $35 members and includes a wrap, salad, chips, dessert, and a beverage. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Mother’s Day lecture

Join the Whaling Museum of Cold Spring Harbor for an online lecture titled Oh Baby! Motherhood at Sea at 7 p.m. ​Get ready for Mother’s Day with this “What to Expect When you’re Expecting” — maritime edition! Explore the undertold yet remarkable experiences of pregnancies, childbirth, and the early years of raising a child for the brave 19th century whaling wives who went to sea. Adults only. Free, suggested donation of $10. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Friday May 10

Garden Club Plant Sale

The Centerport Garden Club will hold a plant sale in front of Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn form 9 to 11 a.m. Shop for well-tended plants donated by members from their own gardens. Rita Rover from the Long Island Chrysanthemum Society will be answering questions regarding exhibition mum growing and Anthony Marinello from Dropseed Native Plants will also be offering plants for sale.

A Taste of the Neighborhood

The Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket hosts its annual A Taste of the Neighborhood fundraiser from 7 to 10 p.m. Enjoy scrumptious food, beer and wine, music, raffle baskets and prizes. Tickets are $50 per person in advance, $60 at the door. Proceeds will be used for maintenance and beautification of the historic building. For further information, call 631-751-6208 or visit www.setauketneighborhoodhouse.com.

Game Night in St. James

Join Celebrate St. James for Game Night at the St. James Community Cultural Center, 176 Second St., St. James from 7 to 10 p.m.  Enjoy board games, card games and pizza. $10 donation. To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org.

Fractured Broadway 3 Concert

Friday and Saturday, May 10 & 11 @ 7:30 pm. Riverhead Faculty and Community Theatre presents Fractured Broadway 3 at North Shore United Methodist Church, 260 Rte. 25A, Wading River tonight and May 11 at 7:30 p.m. Dan Grable accompanies RFCT singers on a fun romp through Broadway hits. Tickets are $20,  students $15. Reserve at 631-929-6075 or [email protected]

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket hosts a Grounds and Sounds concert featuring Cole Fortier with doors opening at 7:30 p.m., open mic at 8 p.m. followed by featured artist. Tickets are $15 at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. 631-751-0297.

Northport Chorale Concert

Middleville Middle School, Middleville Road, Northport will present a concert by the Northport Chorale, “Spring of Dream,”  featuring the Northport Community Jazz Orchestra at 8 p.m. Ticket are $15 and can be purchased at the door. 631-261-1950.

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running improv comedy show is coming to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 Main St., Smithtown tonight, May 17 and May 24 at 8 p.m. Join them for a “Who’s Line Is It Anyway?” style improv competition between the performers. Tickets are $26. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Saturday May 11

Fractured Broadway 3 Concert

See May 10 listing.

Spring Mother’s Day Market

St Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown invites the community to a Spring Mother’s Day Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring 70 local artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, face painting, a visit from Sweetbriar Nature Center, and an animal rescue adoption event. For more information, call 631-265-4520.

CSHL Walking Tour

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor will host a guided walking tour of the campus from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn about the historic and modern architecture, the Nobel legacy, and the advanced cancer, neuroscience, and plant research taking place at the lab. Fee is $7.18 per person. To register, visit www.cshl.edu. 516-367-8844.

Northport Art and Craft Fair

Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport presents its annual outdoor Spring Art and Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 125 vendors to find that perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Free admission. Event will be moved indoors in the case of rain. 631-846-1459

Spring Wildflower Walk

Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown for a Spring Wildflower Walk from 10:30 a.m. to noon. See if you can identify these growing spring treasures with the help of a field guide. Adults only. $4 per person. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com. 631-265-1054

All Souls Poetry Reading

All Souls Church in Stony Brook will host a poetry reading via zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. The featured poet will be Nina Yavel. An open-reading will follow poet; all are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, please call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/

An evening of comedy

The Comedy Club returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. Treat mom to a night of laughs and non-stop fun with comedians Dan Barry, Rich Walker, Rob Falcone and a surprise guest. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Sunday May 12

Mother’s Day at the LIM

In honor of Mother’s Day, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook will offer free admission to mothers and grandmothers from noon to 5 p.m. Explore the different art exhibits and the state of the art carriage museum. 631-751-0066

Benner’s Farm Concert

Good Earth Soundstage at Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket welcomes Bob Westcott and Gerry McKeveny in concert from 3 to 5 p.m. $15 donation at the door. Bring seating. Proceeds will benefit the artists and Homestead Arts for this year’s Fiddle & Folk Festival. 631-689-8172

Monday May 13

Sound Beach Civic Meeting

Sound Beach Fire Department, 152 Sound Beach Blvd., Sound Beach hosts a meeting by the Sound Beach Civic Association at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome. For more information call 631-744-6952.

Tuesday May 14

NSJC Social Club Event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert by Joe DiPiola at 11 a.m. Come dance to the live one-man band performing hits of
yesteryear. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Wednesday May 15

Cruise Night Car Show

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show every Wednesday through October from 5 to 9 p.m. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic cars in the parking lot. 631-929-3500

Hard Luck Cafe Concert

Rod Abernethy and Abigall Dowd, both North Carolina-based singer-songwriters, share the bill during the monthly Hard Luck Café concert series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 to 10 p.m. An open mic precedes the concert. Tickets are $20 at www.cinemaartscentre.org or at the door.

Thursday May 16

Museum Day at the MCPL

Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will hold its annual Museum Day celebration at the Museum Corner from  4 to 7 p.m. Representatives from 30 local museums, historical societies, science and nature centers will be on hand to share information regarding their collections, programs and exhibits. Free. 631-585-9393

Healing Haven Animal Foundation fundraiser

Revival By Toast, 242 East Main St., Port Jefferson hosts a Spring Into Health for Your Dog Celebration with Dr. Lynda Loudon from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dr. Loudon will be speaking on the top 5 ways to increase your dog’s longevity and meet local canine business owners and professionals. Tickets are $28.52 per person and includes dinner, drinks and raffle tickets. All proceeds support the mission of Healing Haven Animal Foundation. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-into-health-for-your-dog-celebration-tickets-884306262837?aff=oddtdtcreator.  For more information, call 202-422-6782 or email: [email protected]

Film

‘We Are the Warriors’

Port Jefferson Documentary Series Spring line-up continues with a screening of We Are the Warriors at John F. Kennedy MIddle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on May 13 at 7 p.m. For nearly 70 years, students and alumni of Wells High School in Maine have called themselves the “Warriors.” The school’s mascot, variations of a stoic Native American head in profile with braids and feathered headband, has drawn both support and criticism in the past. However, during the 2017 fall athletic season, an incident shocks the town and reignites the debate. Followed by a Q&A with guest speakers Helen Sells and Robert Thompson, President and VP of the Setalcott Nation. Tickets are $10 in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com or at the door (cash only). 

‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., presents a screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail on May 15 at 7 p.m. A hysterical, historical tour-de-force from Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones, this cult classic comedy from the Monty Python team loosely follows the legend of King Arthur, along with his squire and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on a fearless quest in search of the elusive Holy Grail. Introduction by Film Historian Glenn Andreiev. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Theater 

‘Antigone’

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport kicks off the 35th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Antigone by Sophocles from May 3 to 26. One of the finest examples of Greek Tragedy, Antigone follows the events of the Oedipus legend, wherein the title character displays great strength as she disobeys King Creon in an attempt to bury her brother in consecrated ground. Presented by the Carriage House Players, the show will take place in the mansion’s Spanish Revival Courtyard on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Jersey Boys’

Extended! John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents Jersey Boys, the story of Franki Valli & The Four Seasons, from March 14 to June 16. They were just 4 guys from Jersey until they sang their very first note–a sound the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a different story–a story that has made them a sensation all over again. Winner of the 2006 Tony© Award for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys features the top ten hits “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night).” To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘The Producers’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Mel Brooks’ The Producers from May 18 to June 22. With something to offend everyone, the hilarious show-biz hit follows the antics of a pair of scheming Broadway producers with a plan to put on the biggest flop of all time. Featuring “If You’ve Got It, Flaunt It,” That Face,” “Keep It Gay,” and the outrageous “Springtime for Hitler,” The Producers is a side-splitting musical bliss. Contains adult humor and situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

Vendors Wanted

◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road Setauket is now accepting vendors for the 10th annual Three Village Farmers & Artisans Market which will be held from May 3 to Oct. 25 (May to August from 3 to 7 p.m., September to October from 3 to 6 p.m. Fee is $650 for full season (25 weeks), $450 half season (12 weeks), $50 pop up per week, food trucks $50 per week. For an application, visit www.tvhs.org

◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its annual Community Wide Yard Sale on May 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Each 10 x 10 space is up for grabs at $50, $35 members. Reserve your spot now at www.tvhs.org/yardsale. 631-751-3730

◆ Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville seeks food and flea market vendors for its Wild Treasures Market on June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8 and Oct. 13 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.wildlifesustainability.org/market for more information.

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A WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION Catch a performance of 'Willy Wonka' at the Brosnan Theater in Northport. The show opens May 3. Photo courtesy of Community Playhouse of Northport
PROGRAMS

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on May 3 at 9:30 a.m. An experienced educator will lead your youngster through hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344. 

Art in the Barn

Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents Art in the Barn, storytime and hands-on art projects for pre-schoolers on May 4, 18, 25 and June 1 at 11 a.m. $15 per child, $13 members. To register, visit waltwhitman.org/events.

Me & You with Keri Wirth

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington hosts a morning concert, Me & You with Keri Wirth, at the Walled Garden on May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Rock out to original music that is funny and educational and dance your way into the sunny day. Pick up an instrument and join this wonderful Sunday morning music program. For infants to age 5. For prices and to register, visit www.caumsettfoundation.org/programs.

Glacial Erratic Hike

Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park hosts a Glacial Erratic Hike for ages 8 and up on May 5 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. If a huge boulder looks out of place, it might be a glacial erratic, a large piece of stone left by glaciers long ago. Venture through the park’s trails and see the glacial remnants brought to Long Island from the last Ice Age. $4 per person. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com. 631-269-4333

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on May 6 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Crafternoon at the Library

Save the date! Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a Crafternoon on May 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. Create a work of art out of recycled materials. For families with children ages 3 to 12 years old. Supervision may be needed for younger children. Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

Bicycle Rodeo

Register now! On May 11 the Brookhaven Highway Department will host a Bicycle Rodeo at Safety Town, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville from 8 a.m. to noon. Children will learn how to safely ride their bikes in a mock-roadway, kid-sized setting. Participants are required to bring their own helmets and bicycles; both will be inspected for safety. Free but by appointment only; call 631-451-5335 to reserve your spot.

THEATER

‘Alice in Wonderland’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport present’s Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland from March 23 to May 12. Alice takes a tumble down an enchanted rabbit hole to an off-kilter world of mock turtles, dancing flora, punctual rabbits, and mad tea parties. Will Alice be able to find her footing in this bizarre place? More importantly, will she ever figure out how to get home?All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Willy Wonka’

Community Playhouse of Northport presents Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka at The Brosnan Theater, 158 Laurel Ave., Northport on May 3, 4 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and May 5 and 12 at 3 p.m. Character meet and greets will be from 2:15 to 2:45 p.m. at Sunday performances. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students and seniors. To order, visit www.communityplayhousenorthport.org. 631-683-8444

‘You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’

Simple Gifts Productions presents You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown at 7:30 p.m. on May 3 and 4 at First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson. This revised version is a fresh approach to the all-time 1967 classic, based on the beloved comic strip by Charles Schulz. Featuring all your favorite Peanuts characters, this charming revue of vignettes and songs is fun for the whole family (ages 4 and older). Tickets are $15 at the door or at www.simplegiftsproductions.com.

‘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.

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

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EARTH DAY FUN Become a Water Warrior at the Whaling Museum in Cold Spring Harbor on April 25. Photo courtesy of Whaling Museum
PROGRAMS

Invisible Ink Workshop

Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket will host a STEM workshop for kids in grades 2 to 5 on April 25 from 10 a.m. to noon. The formula to create invisible ink has been lost! Seeking brave young spies, scientists, and historians to discover a new recipe for writing with invisible ink. Choose from top secret ingredients to find the combination for cracking the coded messages. Each session is $5 per child, adults are free. Children get a full year complimentary museum membership following the program. To register, visit www.tvhs.org. 631-751-3730

Spring Break at the Hatchery

Enjoy spring break at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor with various craft programs, hatchery tours, live animal encounters and more on April 25, 26 and 29. Admission fee is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. For a full schedule of events, visit www.cshfishhatchery.org. 516-692-6768

Water Warriors

In honor of Earth Day, join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for Water Warriors on April 25 at noon or 2 p.m. Explore the dangerous side effects of water run-off through a hands-on, educator-led watershed model activity. Then, bring the water cycle to life as you construct your very own terrarium to grow plants at home. Admission free + $10 participant, $5 members. ​No registration needed. 631-367-3418

Spring Festival

Join the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for a Spring Festival on April 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy kid’s fishing, food, music, games, environmental exhibitors and live animal encounters. Admission fee is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Art in the Barn

Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents Art in the Barn, storytime and hands-on art projects for pre-schoolers on April 27, May 4, 18, 25 and June 1 at 11 a.m. $15 per child, $13 members. To register, visit waltwhitman.org/events.

Visit with a School Marm

Step back in time with a visit with a School Marm at the Long Island Museum’s 19th-century one-room Nassakeag Schoolhouse, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on April 27 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Learn about this historic building and try some school activities from long ago. Free with Museum admission. www.longislandmuseum.org

Storytime Under the Stars

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Storytime Under the Stars series on April  28 at 6 p.m. Your favorite bedtime storybooks come to life in the planetarium theater! Children are invited to wear their most comfy pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed animal. Tickets are $8 per persons, $6 for members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.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 April 22 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Kids Yoga on the Farm

New! Benner’s Farm,56 Gnarled Hollow Road, E. Setauket now offers Kids Yoga classes for ages 5 to 10. First session will be from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. on April 29, May 6, 13 and 20. Classes will focus on easy yoga poses that improve strength and flexibility, breathing exercises, self-awareness, and kindness. Please bring a yoga mat with you to class. $80 per child for 4-week session. Pre-registration is required by calling 631-689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

FILM

‘Song of the Sea’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of Song of the Sea on April 28 at noon. The film tells the story of Ben and his little sister Saoirse — the last Seal-child — who embark on a fantastic journey across a fading world of ancient legend and magic in an attempt to return to their home by the sea. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

THEATER

‘Alice in Wonderland’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport present’s Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland from March 23 to May 12. Alice takes a tumble down an enchanted rabbit hole to an off-kilter world of mock turtles, dancing flora, punctual rabbits, and mad tea parties. Playing cards hold court, and nothing is as it seems in this land where whimsy and wordplay are the order of the day. Will Alice be able to find her footing in this bizarre place? More importantly, will she ever figure out how to get home?All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for a perennial favorite, The Adventures of Peter Rabbit, from April 13 to 27. “Over the hill and through the garden …” That mischievous rabbit Peter just can’t stay out of the McGregors’ garden! But with help from  his sisters—Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail—and his cousin, Benjamin Bunny, Peter learns the power of sharing and caring. Tickets are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

Disney’s ‘Finding Nemo Jr.’

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Disney’s Finding Nemo daily from April 20 to 28. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets are $25 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Willy Wonka’

Community Playhouse of Northport presents Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka at The Brosnan Theater, 158 Laurel Ave., Northport on May 3, 4 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and May 5 and 12 at 3 p.m. Character meet and greets will be from 2:15 to 2:45 p.m. at Sunday performances. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students and seniors. To order, visit www.communityplayhousenorthport.org. 631-683-8444

‘You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’

Simple Gifts Productions presents You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown at 7:30 p.m. on May 3 and 4 at First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson. This revised version is a fresh approach to the all-time 1967 classic, based on the beloved comic strip by Charles Schultz. Featuring all your favorite Peanuts characters, this charming revue of vignettes and songs is fun for the whole family (ages 4 and older). Tickets are $15 at the door or at www.simplegiftsproductions.com.

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Joshua Homer. Photo by Constance Burkin

By Daniel Dunaief

Even as some antibiotics and anti cancer treatments help beat back infections and diseases such as cancer, pathogens and diseases can develop resistance that render these treatments less effective.

Researchers at pharmaceutical companies and universities spend considerable time trying to ensure therapies continue to work. Companies make derivatives of existing drugs or they combine drugs to reduce resistance. They also develop new agents to combat drug-resistant tumors.

Using a chemical process that won his mentor K. Barry Sharpless a Nobel Prize, John Moses, a Professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, has deployed a new version of click chemistry to assemble biologically active compounds quickly and effectively, which could be used for further development into potential therapies.

Akin to fastening a seatbelt or assembling LEGO blocks, click chemistry benefits from an efficient system to create reliable end products, with the additional advantage of minimizing waste products or impurities.

Recently, Research Investigator Joshua Homer, who has been in Moses’s lab for over three years, published a paper in Chemical Science in which he created several libraries of over 150 compounds. He screened these for activity in anticancer or antibiotic assays.

The newer click process, called Accelerated SuFEx Click Chemistry, or ASCC, involves “less synthetic steps,” said Homer. ASCC can use functional groups like alcohols, that are naturally found in numerous commercially available compounds, directly. Homer can and has used commercially available alkyl and aryl alcohols as fragments in this application of ASCC.

This approach “allows us to explore chemical space so much faster,” Homer said.

In an email, Moses suggested that the paper “demonstrates that SuFEx chemistry can be a feasible and speedy approach compared to traditional methods.”

To be sure, the products could still be a long way from concept to bedside benefit.

“It’s important to note that while the chemistry itself shows promise, the actual application in drug development is complex and can take many years,” Moses added.

The research contributed to finding compounds that may be promising in treating various conditions and represent initial findings and potential starting points for further development, Homer added.

Specifically, Homer took inspiration from the structure of combrestastatin A4 when developing microtubule targeting agents.

The chemicals he produced had good activity against drug-resistant cancer cell lines that resist other treatment options.

Homer also modified the structure of dapsone, generating a derivative with greater activity against a strain of M. tuberculosis that is otherwise resistant to dapsone. 

“Strains of bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics,” said Homer. Derivatization of antibiotic structures can generate compounds that maintain activity.

Breast cancer

In creating these compounds, Homer bolted on different commercially available fragments and developed potential nano-molar treatments that could be effective against triple-negative breast cancer.

At this point, he has evaluated two lead agents in two dimensional cell culture and against patient-derived organoids. Homer did this work in collaboration with the lab of CSHL Cancer Center director David Tuveson.

Organoids can help gauge the potential response of a patient’s tumor to various treatments.

Homer found that eight of the microtubule targeting agents were more potent than colchicine against HCT-15. This cancer cell line, he explained, is known to have upregulated efflux, which is a major cause of drug resistance in cancer cells.

His compounds maintained a similar potency between two dimensional cell lines and organoids. Often, compounds are less potent in organoids, which makes this a promising discovery.

Making molecules and screening them for function to discover lead candidates is one of the first steps in the drug discovery process, with considerable optimization and regulatory steps necessary to generate a drug for the clinic.

Promising treatments sometimes also cause cellular damage in healthy tissue, which reduces the potential benefit of any new treatment. Effective cancer drugs are selective for cancer cells over normal cells.

At this point, the molecules Homer creates involve a search for function, he said. “Once we identify the reaction, we can remake our molecule to confirm it is our compound that is causing a reaction.”

Click chemistry doesn’t necessarily lead to solutions, but it enables scientists and drug companies to create and test molecules more rapidly and with considerably less financial investment.

Click solutions

Click chemistry has affected the way Homer thinks about problems outside the lab.

“I think more about doing things quickly and how to tackle the issues we face, rather than using brute force in one direction,” he said. “We can go in lots of directions and probe. We should be looking at all sorts of baskets at once to solve the issues we have.”

Originally from Tauranga, New Zealand, Homer enjoys traveling around the country, visiting new cities and interacting with different people. A resident of Huntington, Homer is looking forward to an upcoming visit from his parents Dave and Debbie and his aunt Carol, who are making their first trip to the continental United States.

“One of my favorite things about being a scientist is that I can bring my parents out of their comfort zone,” he said. His parents live on a small lifestyle block with several sheep and chickens.

Moses lauded the contributions Homer has made to the lab, including providing mentorship to other students.

As for click chemistry, Homer appreciates how the reactions create opportunities even for those without advanced backgrounds in chemistry.

Click chemistry creates the opportunity to help non-scientists understand scientific concepts more easily.

“I can give a high school student the reagents and substrates and they can reliably make biologically active anticancer agents or antibiotics,” he said. “That helps connect science and drug discovery with the community.”

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An Afternoon with The Lady Blue Saxophone Quartet Experience the sounds of four types of saxophones in concert together at the North Shore Public Library on April 14. Photo courtesy of NSPL
Thursday April 11

Senior Fair

Middle Country Public Library, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden will host a Senior Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Receive Medicare enrollment assistance, and visit with wellness, leisure, volunteer and senior housing organizations, as well as safety, healthcare, legal and caregiver support agencies. Fair is free and open to the public. No registration is required. Questions? Call 631-585-9393.

Art History Lecture

Join the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook for a free Art History Lecture with award winning artist and art history aficionado, Kevin McEvoy from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Light snacks will be served. No reservations are required to attend. Seating will be first come, first serve.  631-751-7707

The Timeline of  Food

Diane Schwindt, the resident historic cook at the Ketcham Inn Museum in Center Moriches presents a lively lecture, The Timeline of Food, at the North Shore Public Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham at 7 p.m. From caveman to fast food and a lot in between … explore moments in time that changed the course of food history. A display of authentic historic hearth ware will be discussed, concluding with food samples. A fun-filled evening of surprising facts that will leave you hungry for more! Open to all. Please register by calling 631-929-4488.

Stand Up/Sit Down Comedy

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Stand Up/Sit Down Comedy Series with comedian Richie Byrne at 8 p.m. Followed by an interview hosted by Steven Taub. Tickets are  $40 per person, $30 members. To order in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Friday April 12

Senior Social Club

The Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability kicks off a new season of the Senior Social Club at Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Senior citizens (65 years+) can visit the animals, explore the trails, attend a presentation in Woodland Hall, and enjoy a beverage and snacks with fellow seniors. $10 per person. For reservations, call 631-878-6644.

Friday Food Truck Fest

Three Village Historical Society, 93 North County Road, Setauket hosts a Friday Food Truck Fest tonight, April 19 and 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. Grab a delicious dinner, pull up a picnic table, and hang out with friends and neighbors. The historic house will be open for free tours during the event. 631-751-3730

Game Night in St. James

Celebrate St. James hosts an adult Game Night at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James from 7 to 10 p.m. Enjoy board games, card games and light refreshments. $10 donation. To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

A Night of Opera

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 270 Main St., Northport hosts a concert celebrating the 20th anniversary of Opera Night Long Island at 7:30 p.m. Featuring highlights from grand operas with a reception to follow. $10 donation, students free. For more information, visit www.operanight.org.

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts Grounds and Sounds Cafe concert featuring Jack’s Waterfall. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., open mic starts at 8 p.m. followed by featured artist. Tickets are $15 at the door or in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org. 631-751-0297.

Saturday April 13

Port Jeff Health & Wellness Fest

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce presents their 15th Annual Health and Wellness Fest at The Meadow Club, 1147 Rte. 112, Port Jefferson Station from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featuring over 50 health and wellness vendor tables along with a breakfast and lunch food court, health screenings, massages, plenty of giveaways and much more. Free.  631-473-1414

Intro to Wilderness Survival

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington presents an Introduction to Wilderness Survival from 9:45 a.m. to noon. Learn how to find food, start a fire and build a shelter. Adults only. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 631-423-1770.

Selden Craft & Gift Fair

Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden hosts the 36th annual Spring Craft & Gift Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to benefit Newfield H.S. Leaders Club. Shop for unique crafts, gifts handmade crafts, gourmet foods and spring fashions from over  90 vendors. Free admission. 631-846-1459

Smithtown Health Fair

St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, 50 Route 25A, Smithtown will host an outdoor Community Health Fair in the parking lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet with St. Catherine health care professionals, with free health screenings, children activities and much more. Free. 631-469-0989.

Spectrum of Quilts Exhibit

Smithtown Stitchers present A Spectrum of Quilts exhibit at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and April 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guild members will display their finest array of quilts along with their Ombre Quilt Display. Admission is $5 cash. www.smithtownstitchers.com

Davis House Grand Opening

Davis Town Meeting House Society invites the community to the grand opening celebration of the Davis House, 263 Middle Country Road, Coram at 11 a.m. Featuring the 3rd NY Regiment of the Brigade of the American Revolution, house tours, history exhibit, Burying Ground walking tours and more. Refreshments will be served. Free. 631-846-1224

All Souls Poetry Reading

The Second Saturdays poetry series returns to All Souls Church in Stony Brook via Zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. The featured poet will be Margarette Wahl. An open-reading will follow the featured poet; all are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/

Prohibition Pub Crawl

Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport invites you to celebrate the Repeal of Prohibition with a Prohibition Pub Crawl at noon. Join Education Coordinator Carol Taylor as she takes you on a tour of Prohibition-era Northport while stopping at several local establishments to enjoy refreshments along the way. Dressing in period appropriate attire is highly encouraged! Ages 21+ only. Cost is $40 per person, $30 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

Veterans Food Drive

Miller Place Mount Sinai Historical Society hosts a Veterans Food Drive and appreciation day at the William Miller House, 75 North Country Road, Miller Place from noon to 3 p.m. Drop off canned or paper products and stay to write a letter to a veteran to thank them for their service. www.mpmshistoricalsociety.org.

Meet the Artists Reception

Wet Paints Studio Group of Sayville celebrates 75 years with an art exhibit at the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson through May 1. Join them for a “Meet the Artists” reception today from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Most of the art and prints are for sale. For info, call 631-332-7768 or email [email protected].

An Afternoon of Line Dancing

Setauket Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket invites the community to an afternoon of Line Dancing featuring Stepping Easy with Ellen from 3 to 5 p.m. $10 donation to support the Setauket American Legion Hall. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 631-941-4271

Cirque FLIP Fabrique heads to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents Blizzard by Cirque FLIP Fabrique on the Main Stage at 8 p.m. The show promises its audiences a crazy and poetic journey through the dead of winter, inviting you to lose yourself in a moment of white wonder. Tickets range from $46 to $65. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

An Evening of Comedy

Join the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook for the Long Island Comedy Festival featuring Laura Patton, Matt Burke and Richie Byrne at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45 and include admission to the Hall of Fame. To order in advance, visit www.limehof.org.

Sunday April 14

Spectrum of Quilts Exhibit

See April 13 listing.

Barn Sale in Mt. Sinai

Temple Beth Emeth, 52 Mt. Sinai Ave., Mt. Sinai will hold its monthly thrift barn sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for everything from household goods, to small appliances, clothing, jewelry and much more. Free admission. Questions? Call 631-928-4103.

Whaling Museum Walking Tour

Join the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum for picturesque early spring walking tour through St. John’s Memorial Cemetery, 1670 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. Titled  Stories in Stone: Celebrating Women’s History, the tour will focus on Victorian-era rituals and Women’s History this month. Cost is $15 per person, $10 members. Registration is required by visiting www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Lady Blue Saxophone Quartet

Join the North Shore Public Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham for an afternoon with The Lady Blue Saxophone Quartet at 1:30 p.m. Serious talent, musical training, inventiveness, friendship, and a dash of humor all come together offering a tight, disciplined, beautifully harmonized this musical ensemble. Open to all. To register, call 631-929-4488.

Concert at the Farm

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket hosts a concert on the Good Earth Soundstage featuring Maria Fairchild and Adam Becherer (folk, bluegrass) from 3 to 5 p.m. $15 donation appreciated. Proceeds will go to the artists and to Homestead Arts for this year’s Fiddle and Folk Fest held in early September. Bring seating. For more information, call 631-689-8172.

Ridotto Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto concert titled Don Juan at 4 p.m. Ridotto Concert: Don Juan featuring cellist Ani Kalayjian, soprano Deborah Lifton, and Vassily Primakov, piano. Margaretha Maimone is narrator. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. For reservations, call 631-385-0373, or email [email protected].

Colin Carr Benefit Concert

Colin Carr, Stony Brook Music Department cello faculty and renowned soloist, will be performing a concert to benefit the Colin Carr Scholarship Fund for cello students at Stony Brook University’s Staller Center Recital Hall, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brookat 5 p.m. The concert will feature monumental works for solo cello by Bach, Britten, and Kodály in a not to be missed event.  Admission is free, but donations to the scholarship fund are suggested.  631-632-7313

Monday April 15

TVHS lecture

Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket with a presentation titled The Cuban Giants: The First Professional Black Baseball Team at 7 p.m. ​The Cuban Giants got their start in Babylon in the summer of 1885. Town of Babylon Historian Mary Cascone will present on the team’s start and their early years in professional baseball, the myths about their name, and their position in baseball history. Free to the public. Donations appreciated. www.tvhs.org.

Tuesday April 16

NSJC Social Club Event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a special presentation on dementia by Lauren Vlachos, MSNP, CFRE of the Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center at Stony Brook at 11 a.m. Ms. Vlachos will discuss the topic of Dementia. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-373

Painting on Silk Workshop

Huntington Historical Society hosts a Painting on Silk Workshop at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Learn how to transfer your design onto silk and outline a template on fabric, finishing up by painting with special silk dye with textile designer Oksana Danziger. Cost is $55 per person, $50 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Wednesday April 17

Miller Place Homemakers Auction

Miller Place High School, 15 Memorial Drive, Miller Place hosts the Miller Place Homemakers annual auction at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) with beautiful raffle baskets, refreshments and a 50/50 raffle. Entrance fee is $5 and a food pantry item and includes a door prize ticket and 25 tickets for the handmade auction baskets. Proceeds benefit community service projects. Questions? Call 631-821-9044.

Thursday April 18

Senior Scams Seminar

Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai will host a Senior Scams Seminar & Medication Disposal event from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Stay up to date on the newest scams targeting our senior community. This seminar is presented by officers from the Suffolk County Police Departments 6th Precinct who will also be collecting expired or unwanted medications for proper disposal. To register for the seminar, please call 631-451-5312.

Gardening 101

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket presents a special Q&A session, “Let’s Talk Gardening,” in the Vincent O’Leary from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Members of the Three Village Garden Club will share some of their best gardening ideas as well as what can be learned from the unexpected mishaps. Only a few seats left. To register, call 631-941-4080.

Vanderbilt lecture

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series in the Reichert Planetarium tonight from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Rachel Miller an accomplished blacksmith and co-owner of Spirit Ironworks in Bayport, will discuss Restoring Historic Ironwork, with a focus on Samuel Yellin. Miller will guide the audience through the history and craftsmanship of Yellin’s works at the Vanderbilt Estate, Mansion, and Museum. Tickets are $10 per person (members free) at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Pine Barrens lecture

Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, 146 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a lecture titled The Pine Barrens: Who’s Guarding Our Long Island Treasure? from 7 to 8:30 p.m. LI Pine Barrens board member Tom Casey will speak about the importance of the Pine Barrens. WWBA Trustee  Mark Nuccio will read Whitman’s ecopoetry and essays. Singer-Songwriter Linda Sussman performs a musical environmental interlude. Everyone in attendance may enter into a lottery to win one of 15 8″-18″ fir trees that were donated by New York State Parks. Free admission. For more information, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Film

‘Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its Spring season with a screening of Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty at John F. Kennedy Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on April 15 at 7 p.m. The documentary chronicles the life and work of one of the most successful conservationists in U.S. history. Followed by a Q&A with local conservationist John Turner. Tickets are $10 at the door or in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater 

‘Jersey Boys’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents Jersey Boys, the story of Franki Valli & The Four Seasons, from March 14 to May 26. They were just 4 guys from Jersey until they sang their very first note–a sound the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a different story–a story that has made them a sensation all over again. Winner of the 2006 Tony© Award for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys features the top ten hits “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night).” To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘Murder on the Orient Express’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Murder on the Orient Express, a thrilling mystery about the most infamous case of one of fiction’s most famous detectives, from April 6 to May 4. Murder and mayhem await renowned investigator Hercule Poirot as he boards a train filled with treachery and intrigue. Featuring a shadowy American, a train full of suspects, a notebook’s worth of alibis, and a singular Belgian sleuth whose mustache twitches at murder, all aboard the Orient Express! Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B3.

‘Head Over Heels’

The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Head Over Heels, a musical by James Magruder and Jeff Whitty at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, Ammerman campus, 533 College Road, Selden on April 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 at 7:30 p.m., and April 14 and 21 at 2 p.m. A mash-up of posh and punk, Head Over Heels is an unpredictable, Elizabethan rompabout a royal family that must prevent an oracle’s prophecy of doom. Admission is $15 adults, $10 veterans and students 16 years of age or younger. SCCC students with current ID receive two  free tickets. To order, visit https://sunysuffolk.edu/spotlight or call 631-451-4163.

‘Popcorn Falls’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents a production of James Hindman’s Popcorn Falls from May 4 to 26. The sleepy town of Popcorn Falls is forced into bankruptcy when a neighboring town threatens to turn them into a sewage treatment plant. Their only hope — open a theater! Two actors play over twenty roles in a world of farce, love, and desperation, proving once and for all that art can save the world. Tickets are $35 adults $32 seniors, $25 students. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org

Farmers Markets

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 28. 631-802-2160

Lake Grove Farmers Market

Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove hosts a Winter Farmers Market in the southwestern quadrant of the parking lot (adjacent to Bahama Breeze) on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 516-444-1280

Class Reunions

•Centereach High School Class of 1974 will hold its 50th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on April 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, email Jean Ann Renzulli at [email protected].

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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