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Reducing dairy consumption can decrease inflammation

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Osteoarthritis (OA) can disturb your mobility, mood, and sleep quality, making it difficult to perform daily activities, which can affect your quality of life. Most often, it affects the knees, hips and hands. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are common first-line medications to help treat arthritis pain. Unfortunately, they do have side effects, which become more pronounced with long-term use. 

While medications might relieve your immediate pain and inflammation symptoms, they don’t slow osteoarthritis’ progression. However, there are some approaches that can ease your pain without reaching for medications. Some might even help slow your OA’s progression.

The effect of losing weight on OA pain

Weight management is important to any OA pain management strategy. In a study of 112 obese patients, those who lost weight reported that their knee symptoms improved (1). The study authors also observed disease modification in this population, with a reduction in the loss of cartilage volume around the medial tibia.

The relationship was almost one-to-one; for every one percent of weight lost, there was a 1.2 mm3 preservation of medial tibial cartilage volume, while the opposite occurred for study participants who gained weight. A reduction of tibial cartilage is often associated with the need for a knee replacement.

Does vitamin D help ease OA pain?

In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), vitamin D provided no OA symptom relief, nor any disease-modifying effects (2). The two-year study of almost 150 men and women raised blood levels of vitamin D on average to 36 ng/ml, which is considered respectable. Researchers used MRI and X-rays to track their results.

In another study of 769 participants, ages 50-80, researchers found that low vitamin D levels – below 25 nmol/l led to increased OA knee pain over the five-year study period and hip pain over 2.4 years (3). The researchers postulate that supplementing vitamin D might reduce pain for those who are deficient, but that it will likely have no effect on others.

What about dairy?

With dairy, specifically milk, there is conflicting information. Some studies show benefits, while others show that it might contribute to the inflammation that makes osteoarthritis pain feel worse.

In the Osteoarthritis Initiative study, researchers looked specifically at joint space narrowing that occurs in those with affected knee joints (4). Results showed that low-fat (1 percent) and nonfat milk may slow the progression of osteoarthritis in women. Compared to those who did not drink milk, patients who did saw significantly less narrowing of knee joint space over a 48-month period.

The result curve was complicated, though. For those who drank fewer than three glasses a week up to 10 glasses a week, the progression of joint space narrowing slowed. However, for those who drank more than 10 glasses per week, there was less benefit. Men and those who consumed higher fat products, such as cheese or yogurt, saw no benefit.

However, the study had significant flaws. The 2100 patients were only asked about their milk intake at the study’s start and were asked to recall their weekly milk consumption for the previous 12 months – a challenging task.

In a study of almost 39,000 participants from the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study researchers found that increases in dairy consumption were associated with increased risk of total hip replacements for men with osteoarthritis (5).

Is diet or exercise better for reducing osteoarthritis pain?

Diet and exercise together actually trumped the effects of diet or exercise alone in a well-designed, 18-month study (7). Patients with osteoarthritis of the knee who lost at least 10 percent of their body weight experienced significant functional improvements and a 50 percent pain reduction, as well as inflammation reduction. This was compared to those who lost a lower percent of their body weight.

Researchers used biomarker IL-6 to measure inflammation. The diet and exercise group and the diet-only group lost significantly more weight than the exercise-only group, 23.3 pounds and 19.6 pounds versus 4 pounds. The diet portion consisted of a meal replacement shake for breakfast and lunch and then a vegetable-rich, low-fat dinner. Low-calorie meals replaced the shakes after six months. The exercise regimen included one hour of a combination of weight training and walking “with alacrity” three times a week.

To reduce pain and possibly improve your OA, focus on lifestyle modifications. The best effects shown are with weight loss which is most easily achieved with a vegetable-rich diet and exercise. In terms of low-fat or nonfat milk, the results are controversial, at best. If you don’t eliminate dairy, stay on the low end of consumption, since it can increase inflammation.

References:

(1) Ann Rheum Dis. 2015 Jun;74(6):1024-9. (2) JAMA. 2013;309:155-162. (3) Ann. Rheum. Dis. 2014;73:697–703. (4) Arthritis Care Res online. 2014 April 6. (5) J Rheumatol. 2017 Jul;44(7):1066-1070. (6) Nutrients. 2021 Feb 4;13(2):506. (7) JAMA. 2013;310:1263-1273.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

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The cast of 'Miss Austen'. Photo courtesy of PBS

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

The following is based on viewing Part One of Masterpiece’s presentation of ‘Miss Austen.’

Jane Austen’s correspondence was vast, with an estimation of her penning thousands of letters: Only 160 remain. For reasons unknown, years after Austen’s death, her sister, Cassandra, burned the bulk of Jane’s letters.

Gill Hornby’s intriguing and entertaining Miss Austen: A Novel of the Austen Sisters (2020) speculates why. Hornby’s fictional explanation captures Jane Austen’s style, tone, and diction, with Hornby remarkably echoing Austen’s sly wit and keen observations. Hornby’s book could be seen as a seventh novel in Austen’s sadly small canon. 

A scene from ‘Miss Austen.’ Photo courtesy of PBS

Played in two timelines, the story follows the older Cassandra, in 1830, traveling to Kintbury on the pretext of helping Isabella Fowle, who is mourning her father’s death. However, Cassandra’s true motivation is retrieving the letters written by Jane and herself to Eliza Fowle, Isabella’s mother. Hornby uses Cassandra’s discovery and reading of the cache to flashback to the late 18th and early 19th century. 

In the teleplay, Andrea Gibb puts Isabella’s father, Reverend Fowle, on his deathbed (flickering candles and soft focus), imparting Cassandra a dying wish for Isabella. In this moment, the series sets itself at odds with the source—darker and leaning into the drama (or even melodrama)—rather than the edgier, droller, but more inspired world of the novel. Both touch on the themes of women in society, family obligations, and the pressure for marriage and children. But the approaches are distinctly different, with Gibb’s version trodding heavily, highlighting the romantic elements. The teleplay’s tone (and Aisling Walsh’s direction) departs from Hornby, and in essence, Austen: the author’s brilliance was balancing heartbreak with humor, satire with a sense of humanity. Lacking these vital elements, the filmed version seems bleached and untextured. 

Keeley Hawes is particularly effective as the older Cassandra, conveying thought with subtlety and presenting the older Austen sister as a woman missing nothing but keeping her own counsel. Synnøve Karlsen easily matches her as the young Cassandra, giving an equally rich performance. Patsy Ferran makes Jane quirky and likable and easily drops the few bon mots expected of the witty writer. However, along with Madeline Walker’s pleasant Eliza Fowle, the relationships feel more Little Women than Mansfield Park. 

Rose Leslie’s Isabella is lovely if reinvented as a more traditional heroine. Jessica Hynes’ waspish sister-in-law, Mary, is more ominous than necessary due less to her choice than the approach to her plotline. The same is true of the always wonderful Phyllis Logan, who plays matriarch Mrs. Austen. The book’s Mrs. Austen possesses more than a few shades of Mrs. Bennett; instead, she is given a less colorful portrait to create. Mirren Mack, in her brief appearance, manages the right blend of “respectful impudence” as the Fowles’ maid, Dinah. As for the men, they do little but respond or spout platitudes. 

Ultimately, the major point is legacy. When clergyman Mr. Dundas (Thomas Coombes, in a delightfully wicked cameo suggesting Pride and Prejudice’s unctuous Mr. Collins) suggests to Cassandra that the world is lacking a definitive biography so the public could know the real Jane Austen, she rebukes him. “Everything one needs to know about Jane Austen is to be found in the pages of her novels. There is nothing more.” In essence, this is the thesis. Jane’s life should be defined only by what she offered the public, and her private life and thoughts should remain just that—private. 

Miss Austen offers an interesting—if fictional—glimpse into one of the great literary figures of all time. That said, it is clearly the old saw: “The book was better.” 

The four-part series streams Sundays on PBS.org through May 18.

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BIRDS-EYE VIEW The Bald Hill Fair in Farmingville (May 8 to 18) will feature ‘The Wheel,’ the largest Ferris wheel on Long Island at a towering 110 feet tall. Photo courtesy of Dreamland Amusements
Ongoing

Bald Hill Fair

The Bald Hill Fair returns to the Catholic Health Amphitheater, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville May 8 through May 18. Featuring the Victoria Circus, World of Wonders Oddity Show, a Big Bee transforming robot, lots of carnival rides with fireworks by Grucci on May 10 and May 17 at dusk. Hours are Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. , Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. For ticket information, visit www.baldhillfair.com.

Thursday May 8

Municipal Clerks’ Week Open House

Huntington Town Clerk and Records Management Officer Andrew Raia invites everyone to get a history of Huntington as the town celebrates Municipal Clerks’ Week with an open house at Town Hall, 100 Main St., Huntington from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. today through May 8. Visitors can view the town’s old records chest, old maps, the statue of American Hero Nathan Hale, the town’s ID dating 1666, Native American deeds, and other interesting documents. Tours are free. 631-351-3035

Farmingdale College Plant Sale 

Farmingdale State College, 2350 Route 110, Farmingdale will hold its annual Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will feature a wide assortment of flowering plants, vegetables, herbs, perennials, tropical plants, houseplants, and succulents in parking lot #2 adjacent to the Teaching Gardens and University Police. .

Crafts & Cocktails

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor continues its Crafts & Cocktails series at 6:30 p.m. Discover the history of wet and dry felting as you learn how to sculpt with wool in this needle felting workshop. Explore whalebone tools made by whalers for their loved ones. Sip on a Tipsy Turtle cocktail or mocktail while you transform wool fibers into an adorable sea turtle. $35 per person, $25 members. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

SCCC Spring Concert

The Music Department of Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Spring Concert featuring orchestra, guitar ensemble, the Suffolk Singers and College Choir at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, at 7 p.m. Free and open to all. No tickets required. 631-451-4163

Vanderbilt Lecture

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series with A Vanishing New York: Ruins Across the Empire State from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Photographer and author John Lazzaro will explore abandoned sites in  New York and puts their individual stories in the larger context of New York’s historical legacy. Tickets are $10, free for members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Friday May 9

Garden Club Plant Sale

The Centerport Garden Club will hold its annual Plant Sale in the parking circle in front of Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn from 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for perennials and annuals including native plants. Garden club members will be on hand to answer gardening questions. 

One-Woman Show at the LIM

The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents Shirley Chisholm, Unbossed & Unbowed at 7 p.m. This award-winning one-woman show tells the largely unheard story of Shirley St. Hill Chisholm, a Brooklyn-born politician of immigrant parents, who, in the 20th century, was the first African-American woman to win a seat in Congress and run for President. Starring Ingrid Griffith as Chisholm and the characters that surround her life. Tickets are $30, $25 members. To register, visit www.longislandmuseum.org. 631-751-0066.

Northport Chorale Concert

The Northport Chorale, in collaboration with the North Shore Chamber Choir, Northport Community Band, Northport Jazz Orchestra and Northport Symphony Orchestra present their Spring concert at East Northport Middle School, 1075 5th Ave., East Northport at 8 p.m. Program will include works by John Rutter, plus a varied selection of vocal delights. Tickets are $20 per person. www.northportchorale.com

SCCC Spring Concert

The Music Department of Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Spring Concert featuring the jazz ensemble, symphonic band and contemporary music ensemble at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, at 7 p.m. Free and open to all. No tickets required. 631-451-4163

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a concert featuring Bob Westcott and the musical duo Princess Peapod, The evening  begins with an Open Mic at 7:30 p.m. (signup at 7 p.m.); the main act goes on at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, available in advance at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. For more information, call 631-751-0297.

Saturday May 10

Caumsett Hike

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington presents Just a Hike, a 6 mile, hilly, moderately paced walk affords walkers the opportunity to relax, socialize, and enjoy the park’s beauty, from 9:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Adults only. $4 per person. Registration required by calling 631-423-1770

Car Wash & Bake Sale Fundraiser

The North Shore United Methodist Church, 260 Route 25A in Wading River, will hold a car wash and bake sale fundraiser by the church’s Rwanda Youth Mission Team from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds will help fund the youths’ mission to an orphanage in Rwanda this July. 631-929-6075.

Baby Animal Day

Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Road, Yaphank will host a Baby Animal Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a day on the farm with baby animals, wagon rides, food trucks, games, and more! $15 per person ages 3+ in advance includes unlimited wagon rides, baby animal visits, live music, touch-a-truck, pony rides, face painting, vendor fair and more. $20 at the gate. To pay in advance, visit ccesuffolk.org. 631-852-4600

Spring Festival & Flower Sale – just added!

United Methodist Church of Lake Ronkonkoma, 792 Hawkins Ave., Lake Grove will hold a Spring Festival & Flower Sale from 10 am. to 4 p.m. with food, flowers, vendors and fun! Rain date is May 17. For more information, visit www.UMCLR.com.

Northport Spring Craft Fair

Time to shop! Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport hosts an outdoor Spring Craft Fair (indoors in case of rain) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring Jewelry, Soaps, Lotions, Candles, Flowers, Clothing, Beach glass, Crochet, Woodworking, Spring decor, Artisanal foods, Handbags, Pet items, Toys, and Local Art. Shop for last minute Mother’s Day gifts from over 100 vendors. Free admission. 631-885-1267

International Migratory Bird Day

Town of Brookhaven will hold a free nature program in honor of International Migratory Bird Day at West Meadow Beach, 100 Trustees Road, Stony Brook from 10 a.m. to noon. Long Island is a popular stop over and nesting area for many avian species. Join us as we observe and identify the birds of our shorelines and coastal wetlands. Registration is required. E-mail [email protected] to make your reservation.

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 $9.31 per person. To register, visit www.cshl.edu. 516-367-8844.

Superheroes of the Sky

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown presents Superheroes of the Sky 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. Fee is $10 per adult,  $5 per child (Under 12y). To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Mother’s Day Spring Market

St. Thomas of Canterbury, 90 Edgewater Ave., Smithtown presents their second annual Mothers Day Spring Market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Look for unique, handmade, and special gifts for mom, including live, on the spot, one of a kind poetry gifts and enjoy delicious food, face painting and live music while you shop. 631-265-4520

All Souls Poetry Reading

The Second Saturdays poetry series returns to All Souls Church in Stony Brook from 11 a.m. to noon. The program will be delivered virtually in an interactive format via ZOOM. Chip Williford will be the featured poet. An open reading will follow the featured poet; all are welcome to read one of their own poems. Participants can access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/. 631-655-7798

Portraits at the Vanderbilt Museum

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers live watercolor portrait paintings in the courtyard by local artist Sara Marie Martin from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Your custom watercolor portrait will be painted within 10 minutes! Fee is $20 per 5″ x 7″ (up to 4 people per painting) payable via cash or Venmo on site.*General admission required. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Mother’s Day at the Whaling Museum

Treat Mom to a special day at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor with free admission with a paid ticket today and May 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plus, enjoy a weekend of Mother’s Day crafts. 631-367-3418

Rocky Point Day

Rocky Point School District presents its 2nd annual Rocky Point Day at the Rocky Point High School Track, 82 Rocky Point-Yaphank Road, Rocky Point from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with vendors and crafts, youth sports, food trucks, musical performances and more. 631-744-1600

Open Weekend at Benner’s Farm

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket will be open to the public today and May 11 from noon to 4 p.m. Come visit a real working farm! See sheep, goats, and chickens, ride the Big Swing and see the new babies born this spring. Admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors and children. 631-689-8172

Spring Farm Festival

Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown presents a Spring Farm Festival from noon to 4 p.m. featuring kids crafts, pony rides and petting zoo, live music, sheep shearing, traditional craft demonstrations, historic farmhouse tour, food and craft vendors, face painting, and more! Tickets are $10 per person, children under the age of 3 are free. Purchase in advance at www.eventbrite.com or at the door. Rain date is May 11. 631-265-6768

Author Talk at Hallockville

Join the Hallockville Museum Farm for a presentation by author Richard Wines at Hallock State Park Preserve Visitors Center, 6062 Sound Ave., Riverhead from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wines will speak about his new book, A Farm Family on Long Island’s North Fork. Free but registration required by visiting www.hallockville.org.

Wilderness Survival Workshop

The Vanderbilt Museum 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Wilderness Survival Series with Ranger Eric Powers and Mike Evans today at 2 p.m. and runs once a month through September 13. Each workshop focuses on specific skills such as making cordage, shelter building, purifying water, toolmaking, foraging for food and medicine, navigation and traps, and making fire. Perfect for those starting their survival skills journey or looking to deepen existing skills. $50 per person, $45 members. To reserve your spot, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Long Island Museum lecture

Join the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook for a talk about the New York Marine Rescue Center, the primary responding organization to sick and injured sea turtles and marine mammals in New York, at 2 p.m. Learn more about marine life here in New York, as well as the rescue and rehabilitation process for these animals. Included with museum admission fee. 631-751-0066

Book Signing at the LIMEHOF

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will hold a book signing event with author David Brown at 2 pm. Brown will take part in a Q&A and sign copies of his book, Talkin’ Greenwich Village. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Reboli Center Talk

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook will host an exciting and informative talk with two distinguished figures in the world of classic motorcycles, international guest, Hans Keckeisen, and Long Island’s own, Peter Nettesheim from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Keckeisen and Nettesheim will be discussing the fascinating history of BMW, the iconic Bavarian motor company, and the creation of a truly unique motorcycle that Keckeisen built specifically for Nettesheim’s museum collection. This event is open to the public and free to attend. No reservations required. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and refreshments will be served. For more information, call 631-751-7707 or visit www.rebolicenter.org.

Sunday May 11

Mother’s Day at the Whaling Museum

See May 10 listing.

Open Weekend at Benner’s Farm

See May 10 listing.

Solar Sun Day at Avalon – Just added!

Join Avalon Nature Preserve for a Solar Sun Day from 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Observatories on Shep Jones Lane in St. James. Come observe the brightest star in our sky! Using a large refractor and other dedicated solar telescopes (all equipped with safe solar filters,) they will be providing both digital and visual views of our nearest star, Sol. If the skies permit it, they will also provide views of the planet Jupiter, right in the middle of the day! Free. No registration required. Get directions here. 631-689-0619

Mother’s Day at the LIM

Spend a lovely afternoon with Mom exploring the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook from noon to 5 p.m. Visit the Building the Ballot Box and Colors of Long Island exhibitions, the state of the art Carriage Museum, and stroll the beautiful grounds dotted with art installations, gardens and historic buildings. Free admission for mothers and grandmothers all day! 631-751-0066

Mother’s Day at The Hatchery

Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission for Moms when accompanied by their children. 516-692-6768

Monday May 12

Sound Beach Civic Meeting

Sound Beach Civic Association will hold a meeting at the Sound Beach Firehouse, 152 Sound Beach Blvd., Sound Beach at 7:30 p.m. On the agenda will be the Civic’s upcoming event, Out of This World Kids Day. For more information call 631-744-6952.

Country Line Dancing

Celebrate St. James presents Country Line Dance lessons with Natalie at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 2nd St., St. James from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come learn the hottest dances! $15 per person at the door. Please RSVP at  www.celebratestjames.org.

Movie Trivia Night at the CAC

Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington for a Movie Trivia Night at 8 p.m. Try to answer 50 questions based all around film, actors and actresses, awards, and everything else associated with the world of film. Challenge like-minded film fans in a battle of wits for cash and other prizes. You can form teams, so bring some friends and work together. Feel free to come alone and play solo as well! Hosted by Dan French. Tickets are $11 per person, $7 members at cinemaartscentre.org.

Tuesday May 13

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert by Marty Kupferberg and Thelma Grossman featuring great standard songs of the past. at 11 a.m. Bagels and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Three Village Garden Club meeting

The Three Village Garden Club welcomes the community to their upcoming meetings at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket including today, May 13 (What’s in the Arboretum?); May 20 (Container Gardening); and June 10 (Shade Gardening). The membership meeting starts at 11 a.m. and the program begins at 1 p.m. Visit www.threevillagegardenclub.org for more information.

Board  ‘Walk’  Your Way to Wellness

Health professionals from St. Catherine of Siena Hospital will be available at Sunken Meadow State Park’s boardwalk in Kings Park tonight, May 20 and 27 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. to discuss heart health, healthy eating, weight management, breast health, stroke prevention, skin cancer and Lyme disease prevention tips. Free blood pressure screenings and free giveaways. To learn more, call 631-870-3444.

Wednesday May 14

SCPD Property Auction

The Suffolk County Police Department will hold a property auction at the Property Section, located at 30 Yaphank Ave. in Yaphank. The auction will begin at 9 a.m. and will be held rain or shine. There will be a preview of jewelry and select property  from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Among the items being auctioned are jewelry, handbags power tools, electronics, and bicycles. Participants must be at least 18 years old to bid. All items are sold in “as is” condition and must be purchased with cash. www.suffolkpd.org

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show tonight and every Wednesday through October from 5 p.m. 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

Thursday May 15

Free health screenings

Catholic Health Mobile Outreach Bus will be in the parking lot of Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for free health screenings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registered nurses will provide blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, glucose and cardiac screenings, along with patient education and referrals as needed. Last screening begins at 1:45 p.m. No appointments are necessary, there are no fees, and insurance is not required. Questions? Email [email protected].

International Museum Day

Join the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach for their  annual festival celebrating International Museum Day from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Representatives from many 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

Tribute to Maxine Jurow exhibit and fundraiser

The Huntington Arts Council and Suite Pieces will present Life in Color – A Tribute to Maxine Jurow, a special exhibition and scholarship fundraiser commemorating the five-year anniversary of artist Maxine Jurow’s passing from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Suite Pieces, 1038 New York Avenue in Huntington. Guests will enjoy complimentary cocktails and light bites throughout the evening as they enjoy the presentation of a curated collection of Maxine Jurow’s original works that will be on display and available for purchase. Tickets are $35 per person and available at www.huntingtonarts.org.

Goat & Alpaca Yoga 

The Smithtown Historical Society, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown will host a 45 minute session of yoga with friendly, interactive goats and alpaca near the Frank Brush Barn from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and again from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m courtesy of by Steppin’ Out Ponies and Petting Zoo. The classes continue on May 28, June 12, June 12, July 7, July 24 Aug. 5, Aug. 18 and Sept. 11. Tickets are $35 per person via Eventbrite.com. 631-265-6768.

Gallery North Art Reception

Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket invites the community to an art reception for The Winner’s Circle exhibition celebrating the award-winning artists of the 2024 Outdoor Art Show and Music Festival from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. On view from May 15 to June 22, the exhibition features works by artists Paul Speh, Cassandra Voulo, Laura and Dennis Kemple, Juan Cruz Reverberi, William Demaria, Galina Carroll, Jessamyn Go, Chloe Wang, Cassandra Hussey, Susan Rodgers, Mary Jane van Zeijts, Jonathan Spector, Ash Garcia-Diaz, Sophia Syritsyna, and Eileen Cassidy. Refreshments will be served. 631-751-2676

Theater

‘Fractured Broadway Goes to the Movies’

North Shore United Methodist Church, 260 Route 25A, Wading River presents Fractured Broadway Goes to the Movies on May 9 and May 10 at 7:30 p.m. In this latest version of Riverhead Faculty and Community Theatre’s popular musical revue, local favorite Dan Grable accompanies the very talented cast as they perform familiar movie tunes in entertaining & untraditional ways. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students at the door or by calling 631-929-6075.  

‘Wait Until Dark’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Wait Until Dark from April 18 to May 11. Jeffrey Hatcher’s gripping new adaptation of Frederick Knott’s classic sets the action in 1944 Greenwich Village. Susan, a woman who recently lost her vision, is imperiled by con men searching for a mysterious doll. Trapped in her apartment, Susan draws on new depths of resourcefulness as the story builds to its extraordinary, breath-taking conclusion. Contains adult situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘South Pacific’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Main Stage season with South Pacific from May 15 to June 29. This beloved musical takes place on a South Pacific island during World War II where two love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. With songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “Younger Than Spring-time,” and “There Is Nothin’ Like A Dame,” South Pacific’s lush score contains some of the best songs ever written by Rodgers & Hammerstein. For more information and to order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘Medea’

The Carriage House Players at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in  Centerport kick off their 36th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Medea from May 16 to May 28. Performances are held on the Vanderbilt mansion courtyard stage on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children under age 12. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. Call  516-557-1207 for more information.

‘Half Time’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson closes its 45th Mainstage season with Half Time from May 24 to June 22. The incredible true story of ten determined dreamers who audition to dance at half time for a major basketball team and have three things in common: they love to dance, they have something to prove, and they are all over 60 years old! Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

Class Reunions

— Ward Melville High School Class of 1975 will hold their 50 year reunion at St George Golf & Country Club in East Setauket on June 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. $126.00 per person includes hors d’oeuvres, Prime Rib buffet dinner and open bar. Contact Cary Fichtner-Vu  at 703-861-8259 or [email protected] for tickets by June 2. No walk-ins. 

— Rocky Point High School Class of 1975 will hold their 50 year reunion at East Wind in Wading River on September 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. $150.00 per person includes  reception, hors d’oeuvres, buffet dinner, open bar and dessert. Contact Andrea at 631-774-2474 or [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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Cola
Cola
Cola

MEET COLA!

This week’s featured shelter pet is Cola at the Smithtown Animal Shelter, a one-year-old black Lab/Bully mix with a sparkling personality and a smile that lights up the room! Cola is the total package—charming, playful, and ready to fill your life with laughter, adventure, and unconditional love.

Whether he’s chasing a ball, going on a neighborhood stroll, or romping around the yard, Cola is always up for fun. And when the day winds down, he’s more than happy to curl up beside you for some well-earned snuggles. He’s young, healthy, and would thrive in a home that matches his joyful spirit—especially one with an active family that loves to play and cuddle as much as he does. Cola is friendly with kids, gets along with other dogs, and may even be cat-compatible! He’s already showing great manners and is eager to learn—especially if treats and belly rubs are involved. If you are ready to add a lovable companion to your family, Cola is waiting to meet you!

To schedule a visit, please fill out an adoption application and book a Meet & Greet in the cozy indoor room, dog runs, or on the shelter’s scenic Dog Walk trail. Let Cola show you just how sweet life can be with a loyal pup by your side!

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575.

For more information regarding rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

 

 

 

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Rite Aid

By Heidi Sutton

The signs were already there with empty shelves that were never restocked but now it’s official. Rite Aid Pharmacy announced on May 5 that the business will be selling or closing all of its locations in the next few months, including 178 in New York, as it files for Chapter 11 proceedings for the second time in less than two years. The company currently operates 1,245 stores in 15 states, according to its website.

During this process, Rite Aid customers can continue to access pharmacy services and products in stores and online, including prescriptions and immunizations. In connection with the sale process and court-supervised proceedings, the Company is working to facilitate a smooth transfer of customer prescriptions to other pharmacies, according to the press release.

“For more than 60 years, Rite Aid has been a proud provider of pharmacy services and products to our loyal customers. While we have continued to face financial challenges, intensified by the rapidly evolving retail and healthcare landscapes in which we operate, we are encouraged by meaningful interest from a number of potential national and regional strategic acquirors. As we move forward, our key priorities are ensuring uninterrupted pharmacy services for our customers and preserving jobs for as many associates as possible,” said Matt Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer of Rite Aid.

“I will be forever grateful to our thousands of associates for their commitment to Rite Aid and its mission, and I thank our entire team – from store associates to corporate employees – for their dedication to our customers and our company. With their support, we have played a critical role in supporting the healthcare needs of countless Americans across the communities that we are honored to serve,” Schroeder added.

Following the announcement, Rite Aid posted on its website that starting May 6 Rite Aid Rewards points will no longer be issued for qualifying purchases. All accrued points and BonusCash will expire per standard terms & conditions available at riteaid.com/rewards/terms-and-conditions.

The website also said that Rite Aid would no longer honor Rite Aid gift cards or accept any returns or exchanges beginning June 5.

To support Rite Aid during its sale process, which it intends to conduct under section 363 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, the Company has secured commitments from certain of its existing lenders to access $1.94 billion in new financing. This financing, along with cash from operations, is expected to provide sufficient funding during the sale and court-supervised process. The Company intends to divest or monetize any assets that are not sold through the court-supervised process. Rite Aid has filed a number of customary motions with the Court seeking authorization to support operations, including continued payment of employee wages and benefits, according to the release.

Currently there are 12 Rite Aids in Suffolk County, including Eastport, Hampton Bays, Huntington, Kings Park, Lindenhurst, Middle Island, Mount Sinai, North Babylon, Selden, Shirley, Southampton, and West Islip. Stores will begin to close or be sold within the next few months.

For a full list of New York Rite Aid locations, click here.

 

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Lowering cortisol levels can help manage weight

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Losing or maintaining body weight is complex. Many things influence our eating behavior, including food addictions, boredom, lack of sleep and stress.

While calorie intake is an important element of the equation, knowing a food’s caloric impact doesn’t always make a difference in our behavior. Studies assessing the impact of nutrition labeling in restaurants gave us a good picture of this complex issue: knowing an item’s calories either doesn’t alter behavior or can actually encourage higher calorie purchases (1, 2).

The good news is that controlling weight isn’t only about exercising willpower and skipping higher calorie items. Instead, we should focus on our diet’s composition.

Increasing food quality has a tremendous impact. This is not about emphasizing on macronutrient over another. Macronutrient categories are protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Instead, it’s about emphasizing micronutrients over macronutrients. Micronutrients, simply, are vitamins and minerals in foods. Foods that are micronutrient-dense tend to be the most satisfying. In a week to a few months of emphasizing micronutrients, one of the first things my patients notice is a significant reduction in macronutrient cravings.

Balancing protein, carbohydrates and fats

Many diets focus on the balance of macronutrients. Which has the greatest impact on weight loss? In a randomized control trial (RCT), when comparing different macronutrient combinations, there was very little difference among study groups, nor was there much success in helping obese patients reduce their weight (3, 4). Only 15 percent of patients achieved a 10 percent reduction in weight after two years.

The four different macronutrient diet combinations involved overall calorie restriction. In addition, each combination had either high protein, high fat; average protein, high fat; high protein, low fat; or low protein, low fat. Carbohydrates ranged from low to moderate (35 percent) in the first group to high (65 percent) in the last group. This was another well-designed study, involving 811 participants with an average BMI of 33 kg/m², which is classified as obese.

Focusing primarily on macronutrient levels and calorie counts did very little to improve results.

Should we avoid refined carbohydrates?

A small RCT showed refined carbohydrates actually may cause food addiction (5). MRI scans of trial subjects showed that certain sections of the brain involved in cravings and reward are affected by high-glycemic foods.

Study participants consumed a 500-calorie shake with either a high-glycemic index or a low-glycemic index. They were not told which they were drinking. The ones who drank the high-glycemic shake had higher levels of glucose in their blood initially, followed by a significant decline in glucose levels and increased hunger four hours later. The region of the brain that is related to addiction, the nucleus accumbens, showed a spike in activity with the high-glycemic intake.

The authors note that this effect may occur regardless of the number of calories consumed. Commonly found high-glycemic foods include items like white flour, sugar, and white potatoes. We should all strive to limit or avoid refined carbohydrates.

Focusing on micronutrients 

In an epidemiological study looking at National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data, results demonstrate that those who are overweight and obese tend to be micronutrient-deficient (6). This can have long-term impacts on your health that are not just related to weight. Micronutrients include carotenoids, such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, as well as vitamin B12, folate and vitamins C, E and D.

Unfortunately, taking supplements doesn’t solve the problem; generally, micronutrients from supplements are not the same as those from foods. With a few exceptions, such as vitamin D and potentially B12, most micronutrient levels can be raised by increasing the variety of foods in your diet. Please, ask your doctor before starting or stopping supplements.

Cortisol levels and weight

While cortisol is important to an array of physiological processes, including regulating inflammation and blood pressure, too much cortisol can cause health problems. There is a complex dynamic between cortisol and weight. Cortisol raises glucose blood levels and is involved in promoting visceral or intra-abdominal fat. This type of fat coats internal organs. Decreasing your level of cortisol metabolite might also result in a lower propensity toward insulin resistance and decrease your risk of cardiovascular mortality.

In a preliminary, small, prospective (forward-looking) study involving women, results show that once obese patients lost weight, the levels of cortisol metabolite excretion decreased significantly (7). This is encouraging. Controlling or losing weight is more complex than calorie-counting. While calorie intake has a role, food’s nutrient density may play a significant role in reducing your cravings, ultimately helping you manage your weight.

References:

(1) Am J Pub Health 2013 Sep 1;103(9):1604-1609. (2) Am J Prev Med.2011 Oct;41(4):434–438. (3) N Engl J Med 2009 Feb 26;360:859. (4) N Engl J Med 2009 Feb 26;360:923. (5) Am J Clin Nutr Online 2013;Jun 26. (6) Medscape General Medicine. 2006;8(4):59. (7) Clin Endocrinol.2013;78(5):700-705.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

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Cona Elder Law will host its 9th Annual Caregiver Conference, “Rewiring & Retiring Well on Long Island: The Secret Ingredients No One Talks About,” on Wednesday, May 7 at the Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This conference offers a unique opportunity for older adults and caregivers to connect with industry professionals, explore valuable resources, and gain insights into various aspects of elder care. With an expected attendance of over 200 community members, the event promises to be both informative and supportive for those in the sandwich generation, caregivers, and anyone between the ages of 45 to 75.

The free event will feature a presentation from Melissa Negrin-Wiener, Esq., Senior Partner, Cona Elder Law, titled “Protecting your Assets to Retire Well & Leave a Legacy” as well as from Evelyn Gellar, Managing Director, Forest Hills Financial Group, titled “Managing Retirement Income & Risk During Tumbling Tariff Markets.”

The evening will feature a special panel discussion on “Rewiring & Retiring” featuring: Paul Fleishman, Newsday, Vice President of Public Affairs (Retired); Esther Fortunoff, Owner, Fortunoff’s, Rewired to EFG Designs; Kathy Munsch, American Heart Association, Regional Vice President (Retired); and Randy Goldbaum, Partner, Egress Pros, Rewired to Cannabis and Hemp Entrepreneur. The panel will be moderated by Jennifer B. Cona, Esq., Founder and Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law.

“Most of us can’t wait for the day when we can hang it all up and do what we want. But when that glorious time comes, many suffer from loss of identity, lack of purpose, inability to relate to others, depression, and more,” said Jennifer Cona, Founder and Managing Partner of Cona Elder Law. “In today’s economic climate, many older adults need to ‘rewire’ as they need an additional source of income to supplement retirement benefits. So, who are the people who are actually thriving in retirement and how are they doing it? How do you make the Golden Years actually golden?”

The evening will also feature an Exhibitor Expo with over 30 elder care industry sponsors and exhibitors. Attendees will have access to a wealth of resources on topics including home care, assisted living, reverse mortgages, long-term care insurance, and caregiver support services.

For more information and to register for the conference, please visit the official event page: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-cona-elder-law-annual-caregiver-conference-registration-1255669955639?aff=Prli

About Cona Elder Law

Cona Elder Law concentrates in the areas of elder law, estate planning, estate administration and litigation, and health care law. Cona Elder Law takes a holistic approach to elder law, providing support and resources for older adults and caregivers, and maintains long-term, partnering relationships with clients to provide the best solutions for multiple generations.

Event Details:

  • What: 2025 Cona Elder Law Annual Caregiver Conference
  • When: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 @ 5:00 – 9:00 PM
  • Where: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broadhollow Rd, Melville, NY 11747
  • Cost: Free

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Actor Laura Dern, center, with 'Common Ground' directors Rebecca Harrell Tickell and Josh Tickell.

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

According to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, regenerative agriculture “describes holistic farming systems that, among other benefits, improve water and air quality, enhance ecosystem biodiversity, produce nutrient-dense food, and store carbon to help mitigate the effects of climate change. These farm systems are designed to work in harmony with nature, while also maintaining and improving economic viability.” Regenerative agriculture includes practices like no-tillage, planting cover crops, reducing chemical use, and planned grazing. 

In 2017, Josh Tickell published Kiss the Ground: How the Food You Eat Can Reverse Climate Change, Heal Your Body, & Ultimately Save Our World. The book purports that climate change is reversible through changing diets based on harvests from soil-nourishing, regenerative agriculture. 

Tickell (along with Rebecca Harrell Tickell) produced and directed the documentary Kiss the Ground (2020), which explored the issues raised in the book. The film shares interviews with farmers, scientists, and environmentalists. The focus is the power of healthy soil and its healing powers for humanity and the earth as a whole. Narrated by Woody Harrelson, the film features the well-known {model/ U.N. Good Will Ambassador Gisele Bünchden, NFL quarterback Tom Brady, etc.) along with authors and environmentalists. Kiss the Ground was lauded for its good intentions but received criticism for an often simplistic approach to the solution, especially concerning climate change. 

The follow-up, Common Ground, which launched globally on Amazon Prime on April 22 in honor of Earth Day, covers some of the same territory, with a spotlight on preservation of the soil. Again, central is the importance of properly cultivating the soil through regenerative agriculture. 

Common Ground opens with a letter “written” by various celebrities. Each is presented with a sonorous voiceover steeped in gravitas. The letter ends with, “It’s a matter of life and death.” If the information presented in Common Ground is even twenty percent accurate, this dark statement is harbinger of long-term and perhaps irrevocable damage. The film begins with a detailed explanation of regenerative agriculture, comparing it to the other less environmentally-friendly approaches. 

The film is most interesting and effective when it addresses agribusiness issues driving the market. Following the money trail exposes the private sector’s influences on government and education, with money filtered through land grant universities. Larger corporations have suppressed scientists and pressured the USDA, influencing the Farm Bill and driving subsidies into soy, wheat, and corn—all commodity crops. Agribusiness possesses the largest lobbying industry with twenty-three registered lobbyists for every member of Congress.

An exploration of the rise of industrial farming in post-World War II highlights the uses of chemicals in the forms of pesticides and toxic herbicides, labeled “the Green Revolution.” Most notably, Monsanto Company’s glyphosate product, Roundup, led to the 1980s genetically engineered crops—“ready grains”—that could resist Roundup. Gradually, revelations held Roundup responsible for damaging the health of thousands, leading to multiple successful lawsuits. (Monsanto sold the company to the German Bayer AG for sixty-three billion dollars.)

Common Ground gives a bleak picture of the small farmer who lives in hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt. The Farm Bill Cycle of Debt is a cyclical trap of the system dictating what (and how) to grow, boosting corporate profits, consumer illness, and farmers’ debt. Suicide rates among farmers are five times higher than the general population. Additionally, Common Ground touches on the racial disparity in farming, with the system showing an overwhelmingly biased preference towards white people. The discriminatory nature of the industry has only increased over the years.

While the film emphasizes much of the negative, it celebrates those who have succeeded in abandoning industrial farming. The alternatives are shown to have health and economic benefits—all linked back to regenerative agriculture.

The tone and style—and much of the documentary—shift from dark shadows to pastoral sunshine to peripatetic imagery. At times, Common Ground feels like clumsy public service announcements; at other points, it plays with the jarring cuts of a music video, with blaring, on-the-nose lyrics. The “behind the scenes” look at the stars — Laura Dern, Jason Momoa, Woody Harrelson, Ian Somerhalder, Donald Glover, Rosario Dawson, and many others recording their narratives is oddly and ineffectively “meta.” But Common Ground is well-paced and presents a clear path to transformation. 

Documentaries habitually select their focus as the greatest existential threat. Whether AI, plastics, water pollution, corporate manipulation, or conspicuous consumption, each sees its topic as the direst and the most important to be solved. Many point to the destruction of the environment, but each selects a different “demon” as the most dangerous. Common Ground is no different in this respect, and therefore, even in its specificity, it lands as a generic call-to-arms (or farms, as the case may be).

“The quality of what you eat determines the quality of your health. And a living soil is where it all begins.” While it might not convert the doubters, Common Ground is another reminder that through commitment and collaboration, environmental change is possible. 

The documentary is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

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The Farmingville Historical Society hosts a Civil War Encampment at the Bald Hill Schoolhouse on May 3.
Thursday May 1

Strictly Sinatra at The Jazz Loft

The Jazz Loft Big Band, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents Strictly Sinatra! with vocalist Pete Caldera today and May 2 at 7 p.m. and May 3 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. $40 admission with senior, student and child discounts. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org. 631-751-1895

Long Island Guitar Festival

The 33rd annual Long Island Guitar Festival continues tonight at The Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket with a concert featuring Hao Yang from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and runs through May 4. For a schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit www.ligfest.net.

Friday May 2

Strictly Sinatra at The Jazz Loft

See May 1 listing.

Long Island Guitar Festival

See May 1 listing.

Dress for Success Spring Sale

Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville presents a Dress for Success Spring Sale and Mother’s Day raffles from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Take part in an excess inventory sale with great deals on new and gently loved clothes, shoes, handbags and jewelry. Call 631-451-TOWN for more info.

Stevie GB & The Retirement Village People in concert

Join Celebrate St. James for a concert at the St. James Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James at 8 p.m. Get ready to laugh, sing, and groove as Stevie GB & The Retirement Village People take the stage for a fun musical event like no other! Enjoy hilarious original song parodies blended with classic rock, pop, and show tunes from the ‘60s and ‘70s — it’s the ultimate throwback party! Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door and includes refreshments. Call 631-984-0201 for more information.

Saturday May 3

Strictly Sinatra at The Jazz Loft

See May 1 listing.

Long Island Guitar Festival

See May 1 listing.

Antiques & Garden Weekend

Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson hosts the Port Jefferson Historical Society’s 17th annual Antiques and Garden Weekend at the Port Jefferson Village Center today and May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring over 20 quality antique dealers offering estate and antique jewelry, artwork, memorabilia, antiques, retro items, collectibles, vintage garden items and a Suwassett Garden Club Plant Boutique. Admission is $6. www.portjeffhistorical.org

Arbor Day at Avalon Park

Join the Village of Head of the Harbor, along with its Tree Committee, for their annual Arbor in The Harbor event at Avalon Nature Preserve’s Barn, 60 Shep Jones Lane, St. James from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a demonstration on how to plant and care for trees and protect them from deer, take part in a native species identification tour and receive a free sapling tree to take home and plant (while supplies last). Rain date is May 4.

Earth Day Celebration

Town of Huntington hosts a family-friendly Earth Day celebration at Manor Farm Park, 210 Manor Road, Huntington from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees can enjoy arts & crafts, Touch a Truck, live music, a marine touch tank, beekeeping demonstrations, storytime, giveaways and much more. Free. 631-351-3175

Community Shred Day

Time for some spring cleaning! Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will hold a Community Shred Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A shredding truck from A Shred Away, Inc. will be in the library’s parking lot for on-site shredding of personal documents. There is a limit of 5 boxes or bags. Please no plastic, carbon paper, hanging files, red well folders, cardboard, newspapers, or magazines. Clips and staples are fine. No registration required. Open to both residents and nonresidents. Questions? Email [email protected].

I Love My Park Day

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station seeks volunteers to participate in an outdoor spring clean up from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of a state-wide initiative to maintain parks. Activities will include raking, weeding, pruning, planting and clean up. Please bring your own tools. Free lunch, t-shirt and volunteer certification will be provided. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

Spring Craft Fair

Integrity Church, 1 Old Dock Road, Yaphank presents its annual outdoor Spring Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop for Mother’s Day gifts from over 90 vendors. Rain date is May 10. 631-840-7823

Long Island Game Farm ribbon cutting

Join the Long Island Game Farm, 254 Chapman Blvd., Manorville in celebrating their 55th anniversary year with day long festivities  at 10 a.m. Led by Master of Ceremonies Doug Geed, the day will kick off with a ribbon cutting ceremony of the Woodland Trail, a universal access trail suitable for wheelchairs. The ribbon cutting will open Woodland Trail for the start of the Trail Trot & Animal Antics, a non-competitive run/walk through the trail followed by animal inspired challenges for the children. In addition, the day will include an Open House where guests will meet the Game Farm Team, Camp Counselors, and partners to learn about what’s new at the Game Farm this year; kids craft activities by Macaroni Kid; performances by local songwriters and the Eastport South Manor Junior High Orchestra; Game Farm Director Greg Drossel will lead groups on a Woodland Trail Walk; artist Tonito Valderrama will invite attendees to participate in the creation of The Great Nest of Life Installation Project; Boy Scout Sam Zvolensky will show his Eagle Award Project, a sensory garden at the Game Farm;  Scouts Adalia Haas and Summer Realander will talk about her Gold Award projects they are each working on, and of course visit with the many unique animals that call the Game Farm home. Discounted admission for the day is $15 per person,  children under age 2 are free. Registration for the Trail Trot for youth, 3-12yrs is in advance and includes admission to the Game Farm and a commemorative t-shirt. For more information, call 631-878-6644 or visit www.longislandgamefarm.com.

Civil War Encampment

Farmingville Historical Society hosts a Civil War Encampment at the Bald Hill School House, 507 Horseblock Road, Farmingville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the 30th Virginia Infantry, Co. B and the 67th New York, Co. K. Featuring period food demonstrations, Civil War music, musket firing, drills, and tours of the one room schoolhouse. Free. www.farmingvillehistoricalsociety.org

Craft Fair at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River kicks off their Craft Fair Weekends today and May 4 form 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop from local craft vendors as well as all The Shoppes have to offer. Bring the kids for fun activities including a bounce house and carousel. 631-846-2372

Basket Auction

St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church, 4 Woodville Road, Shoreham invites the community to a Basket Auction fundraiser at 4 p.m. $20 entrance fee includes a sheet of 20 tickets, coffee, tea and cake.  Proceeds will benefit Hope Children’s Fund. For more information, call 631-744-7730.

Artist Reception

The Brick Clay Studio & Gallery, 2 Flowerfield, Suites 57 & 60, St. James invites the community to an artist’s reception for  the new works of Ana Sanchez, multi-media artist, naturalist, painter and ceramicist from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Sanchez’s work will be on view through June 1.  833-The-Brick

Saturdays at Six Concert

All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook continues its Saturdays at Six concert series with Serenade Duo featuring flutist Michelle LaPorte and guitarist Gerry Saulter who will share music of the world with their warm stage presence and engaging performances of culturally diverse repertoire. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Free. 631-655-7798

Night at the Races

Join the Selden Fire Department, 44 Woodmere Place, Selden for a Night at the Races from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. $10 ticket purchase includes door prizes, complimentary beer, soda, wine and food, and one free bet. 631-732-1041.

CFVO Dinner Dance

The Coalition of Fraternal and Veteran Organizations (CFVO) will hold their 11th annual Dinner Dance at the Moose Lodge,  37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. $50 per person includes a buffet dinner, limited open bar and entertainment. For more information, call 631-473-9774 or 631-928-4490.

U2 Tribute Concert

The Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents 2U: The U2 Tribute in concert at 8 p.m. 2U faithfully recreates a U2 live show in every way. Their hit songs are performed to utter perfection, identical to the way you remember hearing them on your radio. Tickets are $42. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Paul Taylor Dance heads to SBU

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook closes its Spring season with a performance by the Paul Taylor Dance Company on the Main Stage at 8 p.m. Under the artistic direction of Michael Novak, this acclaimed modern dance company presents timeless classics, exciting new works, and historical masterpieces. Tickets range from $47 to $66. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com. 

Sunday May 4

Long Island Guitar Festival

See May 1 listing.

Antiques & Garden Weekend

See May 3 listing.

Craft Fair at The Shoppes

See May 3 listing.

Community Blood Drive

VFW Post 4927, 34 Lamport Ave. Port Jefferson Station will host a New York Blood Center Community Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay. Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcome. To make an appointment, call  1-800-933-2566. 

Spring Vendor & Craft Fair

Polish American Independent Ladies of Port Jefferson Auxiliary will hold their annual Spring Vendor & Craft Fair at the Polish Hall, 35 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The indoor/outdoor event will feature many craft vendors, cash bar and food. Free admission. 516-383-3456

Mt. Sinai Barn Sale

Temple Beth Emeth, 52 Mt. Sinai Ave., Mt. Sinai will hold ts first Thrift Barn Sale of the year from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for clothing, household items, jewelry, books, toys and more. 631-928-4103

Sheep to Shawl Festival

Huntington Historical Society invites the community to its annual Sheep to Shawl Festival at the Dr. Daniel W. Kissam House, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from noon to 4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy live sheep sheering demonstrations, old fashioned games, historic crafting demonstrations, traditional music, house tours, refreshments and more! Free admission.  631-427-7045

Muster Day at the Arsenal

After the Sheep to Shawl Festival, head across the street for Muster Day at the Arsenal, 425 Park Ave., Huntington from noon to 4 p.m. Featuring tours of the 18th century building, military drills, firing of a cannon, vendors, crafting demonstrations and more. Free admission, www.huntingtonmilitia.com.

Sundays at the Society

Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport welcomes author Thomas Maier to its Sundays at the Society event at 1 p.m. Maier will discuss his new book, The Invisible Spy: Churchill’s Rockefeller Center Spy Ring followed by a book signing. Tickets are $15, $12 members. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

Silver Chords Concert

Join the Silver Chords for a free choral concert at the Moose Lodge, 631 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn at 2 p.m. Titled Look at the World, the program includes  songs by Joni Mitchell and John Rutter featuring “What a Wonderful World,” “Smile,” and highlights from Wicked along with raffle baskets and refreshments. 631-235-3593

Spring Rummage Sale

Temple Beth El, 660 Park Ave., Huntington will hold a Spring Rummage Sale today from 2 pm. to 5 p.m. and May 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (bag day). Shop for clothing, jewelry, small household goods, tools, toys, art, CDs and DVDs. 631-680-6824

Karen Bella in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a concert by the Karen Bella from 3 to 4 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Monday May 5

Spring Rummage Sale

See May 4 listing.

Municipal Clerks’ Week Open House

Huntington Town Clerk and Records Management Officer Andrew Raia invites everyone to get a history of Huntington as the town celebrates Municipal Clerks’ Week with an open house at Town Hall, 100 Main St., Huntington from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. today through May 8. Visitors can view the town’s old records chest, old maps, the statue of American Hero Nathan Hale, the town’s ID dating 1666, Native American deeds, and other interesting documents. Tours are free. 631-351-3035

Tuesday May 6

Municipal Clerks’ Week Open House

See May 5 listing.

Farmingdale College Plant Sale 

Farmingdale State College, 2350 Route 110, Farmingdale will hold its annual Plant Sale today through May 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will feature a wide assortment of flowering plants, vegetables, herbs, perennials, tropical plants, houseplants, and succulents in parking lot #2 adjacent to the Teaching Gardens and University Police. Please bring your own cart or wagon. 

Strictly Business Trade Show

The 17th annual Strictly Business trade show will take place at the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees have the opportunity to enter a raffle for the chance to win a $250 gift card. Admission is free and there is ample free parking. For more information, call 631-585-9393 x216.

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert by singer and guitarist Scotto at 11 a.m. Bagels and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Board  ‘Walk’  Your Way to Wellness

Health professionals from St. Catherine of Siena Hospital will be available at Sunken Meadow State Park’s boardwalk in Kings Park tonight, May 13, 20 and 27 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. to discuss heart health, healthy eating, weight management, breast health, stroke prevention, skin cancer and Lyme disease prevention tips. Free blood pressure screenings and free giveaways. To learn more, call 631-870-3444.

Whale of a Mom online lecture

Being a whale mom is no easy task! Join the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum for a virtual talk at 7 p.m. to explore what makes these creatures not only the biggest, but some of the best mothers in the ocean. Free. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Wednesday May 7

Municipal Clerks’ Week Open House

See May 5 listing.

Farmingdale College Plant Sale

See May 6 listing.

Suffolk County Job Fair

Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook hosts a Community Job Fair from 10 a.m. to noon. Co-sponsored by the Suffolk County One Stop Employment Center, the event will feature representatives from over 20 companies including Ideal Home Care, Swan Lake Rehabilitation, American Regent, Stony Brook University Hospital, Family Service League, Allegiant Home Care, Stony Brook University, NYSP, Jefferson’s Ferry, Arrow Security, SCO Family of Services, Urban League of Westchester County, Inc., East/West Industries, 311 Call Center, Aides At Home, Long Island Community Hospital, A Gentle Touch Senior Home Care, New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, YAI, Suffolk County HR, SeniorCare Companions Home Companion Services of New York, Inc, Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace, Transitional Services of Long Island and Haven House/Bridges. Bring your resume and dress for success. No registration required. For more information, call the 631-853-6600.

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show tonight and every Wednesday through October from 5 p.m. 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

Caregiver Conference

Cona Elder Law will host its 9th annual Caregiver Conference, “Rewiring & Retiring Well on Long Island: The Secret Ingredients No One Talks About” from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Hilton Long Island. 598 Broadhollow Rd, Melville. This conference offers a unique opportunity for older adults and caregivers to connect with industry professionals, explore valuable resources, and gain insights into various aspects of elder care. Moderated by Jennifer B. Cona, Esq., the event will feature a presentations, panel discussions, an Exhibitor Expo with over 30 elder care industry sponsors and exhibitors and more. Food and beverages will be served and admission is free. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com.

ArtTalk at the Atelier

Join the Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suite 9, St. James for an ArtTalk and reception with Dino Rinaldi from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The artist will discuss his latest artwork on display in his solo exhibition, Inside and Outside the Box. Also available on Zoom. To register, visit www.theatelieratflowerfield.org. 631-250-9009

HHS Gardening Workshop

Huntington Historical Society presents a gardening workshop at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Grab your favorite inspirational magazines and Pinterest boards ad have some fun preparing your garden for Spring/summer 2025! Join Jess Seilheimer from Dahlias and Dreams for a 90-minute workshop on planning (and planting) your dream garden. Whether you have sun or shade or are a beginner or intermediate gardener, these easy-to-implement 6 tips will go the distance with you, year after year! The workshop will include a 45-minute presentation + 45 minutes of inspirational vision boarding for your dream garden! All supplies are included. $40 per person, $35 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Thursday May 8

Municipal Clerks’ Week Open House

See May 5 listing.

Farmingdale College Plant Sale

See May 6 listing.

Bald Hill Fair

The Bald Hill Fair returns to the Catholic Health Amphitheater, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville tonight through May 18. Hours are Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. , Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. Featuring the Victoria Circus, World of Wonders Oddity Show, a Big Bee transforming robot, lots of carnival rides with fireworks by Grucci on May 10 and May 17 at dusk. For ticket information, visit www.baldhillfair.com.

Crafts & Cocktails

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor continues its Crafts & Cocktails series at 6:30 p.m. Discover the history of wet and dry felting as you learn how to sculpt with wool in this needle felting workshop. Explore whalebone tools made by whalers for their loved ones. Sip on a Tipsy Turtle cocktail or mocktail while you transform wool fibers into an adorable sea turtle. $35 per person, $25 members. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

SCCC Spring Concert

The Music Department of Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents a Spring Concert featuring orchestra, guitar ensemble, the Suffolk Singers and College Choir at the Shea Theatre, Islip Arts Building, at 7 p.m. Free and open to all. No tickets required. 631-451-4163

Vanderbilt Lecture

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series with A Vanishing New York: Ruins Across the Empire State from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Photographer and author John Lazzaro will explore abandoned sites in  New York and puts their individual stories in the larger context of New York’s historical legacy. Tickets are $10, free for members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Film

Long Island Jewish Film Festival

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents the 3rd annual The Long Island Jewish Film Festival from May 1 to May 6. The festival will feature films that include innovative documentaries, riveting dramas, and hilarious comedy, all curated by David Schwartz, Curator at large at the Museum of the Moving Image, who will also host filmmaker interviews and audience discussions after many of the festival’s screenings. Tickets are $16 per film, $10 members. For a full schedule, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’

In celebration of it 50th anniversary, Monty Python and the Holy Grail will return to select theaters nationwide on Sunday, May 4 and May 7, courtesy of Fathom Entertainment. 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. For participating theaters, visit www.fathomevents.com. 

‘We Want the Funk’

In partnership with Independent Lens, the Greater Port Jefferson-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council will host an Indie Lens Pop-Up screening of the documentary We Want the Funk by Stanley Nelson at Middle Country Public Library, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden on May 4 at 2 p.m. The film is a syncopated voyage through the history of funk music, from early roots to 1970s urban funk and beyond and will be followed by a short live funk music band performance and discussion on how the genre is still influential today. Free but registration is required by visiting www.gpjac.org.

Theater

‘Wait Until Dark’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Wait Until Dark from April 18 to May 11. Jeffrey Hatcher’s gripping new adaptation of Frederick Knott’s classic sets the action in 1944 Greenwich Village. Susan, a woman who recently lost her vision, is imperiled by con men searching for a mysterious doll. Trapped in her apartment, Susan draws on new depths of resourcefulness as the story builds to its extraordinary, breath-taking conclusion. Contains adult situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘South Pacific’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Main Stage season with South Pacific from May 15 to June 29. This beloved musical takes place on a South Pacific island during World War II where two love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. With songs such as “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “Younger Than Spring-time,” and “There Is Nothin’ Like A Dame,” South Pacific’s lush score contains some of the best songs ever written by Rodgers & Hammerstein. For more information and to order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

Class Reunions

— Ward Melville High School Class of 1975 will hold its 50 year reunion at St George Golf & Country Club in East Setauket on June 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. $126.00 per person includes hors d’oeuvres, Prime Rib buffet dinner and open bar. Contact Cary Fichtner-Vu  at 703-861-8259 or [email protected] for tickets by June 2. No walk-ins.

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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A mourning cloak butterfly. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

By John L. Turner

John Turner

Strolling up a slight incline on a trail pockmarked with pebbles the oak forest fell steeply away to my right. The warm spring air on this day in late April was most pleasant and welcome and I paused for a moment to bask in the warmth of a circle of sunlight reaching the ground through a small break in the tree canopy, happy winter was in the rear view mirror. 

Numerous Flowering Dogwood trees were in blossom in the forest, adding a splash of white and pink to the understory, their flowers reminding me of a grouping of water lilies floating fifteen feet in the air, although they were at eye level because of the falling slope. 

And suddenly movement — a butterfly is sailing toward me down the trail, turns in a half circle and lands in a foot square patch of sunlight with wings open, facing away so that its dark wings have the best angle to absorb the warmth the shaft of sunlight offered. A mourning cloak, a butterfly with a three inch wingspan, has joined my morning, an identification I make easily and instantly due to its highly distinctive coloration, which is unlike any other butterfly in eastern North America. 

The mourning cloak, so named because its dark brown body with a pale yellow band along the outer wing margin is reminiscent of the attire once worn during funerals and other somber occasions, is a stunningly beautiful insect. 

The derivation of the scientific name is a different story; Nymphalis antiopa relates to arcane Greek mythology. The brown of the body and wings is rich walnut in color and toward the wing edge numerous purplish-blue oval dots are patterned within a narrow band of black, this band adjacent to the aforementioned yellow band at the wing margin. Dark flecking is sprinkled throughout the yellow. Four small yellow wedges are positioned along the leading edge of the wings. Two prominent dark colored antennae project from the butterfly’s head, forming a classic letter vee.

The underside of the wings are as drab as the upper wings are showy. This adaptation helps the mourning cloak blend in on tree bark or leaf litter if it falls to the ground and plays dead, as it sometimes does to avoid predation. If it decides instead to flee it can erupt fast, emitting an unusual clicking sound (which I’ve never heard) which reportedly disturbs birds.  

The mourning cloak is typically the first butterfly to emerge in the spring because it overwinters as an adult; no need for springtime pupation and metamorphosis as with other butterflies. Adults spend the winter in surprising fashion — hibernating beneath flaking tree bark, in tree cavities and in the cracks of larger rocks. They are able to survive the winter because they have “antifreeze” in their blood and cells — sugar compounds (glycerols) which lower the temperature at which the insect would freeze. Once it emerges it rapidly shivers its flight muscles helping the butterfly to warm up. Its dense hairlike bristles help to hold the muscle-generated heat inside.  

Another surprise in a butterfly with several surprises is that, once it emerges, it doesn’t depend upon, or much utilize flowers and their sugary nectar, although the species will occasionally visit them. Rather, they depend upon tree sap, the moisture and sugar in fallen fruits, the sweet exudate of aphids, mud puddles, even animal dung. Due to the fact this butterfly came out of pupation last summer means it is — as far as insects go — a long lived insect, having a lifespan as much as ten to twelve months. 

Not surprising, given its ability to survive frigid temperatures, the mourning cloak is found in temperate and cold regions all across North America, Europe and Asia. In England it’s known as the ‘Camberwell Beauty’; the species was first discovered in England at Camberwell in 1748 and the discoverer, Moses Harris, suggested the name. It also ranges south and is known from Central and South America.   

If the mourning cloak mates, egg laying takes place with the eggs laid on one of a wide range of host plants including  various willows, aspen, birch, hackberry, elm, hawthorn, cottonwood, poplar and mulberry, among others. The eggs are laid in long clusters along the stem near its tip and they are as beautiful as they are geometrically distinctive; they remind me a little of the dome of the U.S. Capitol. I wouldn’t blame you if you stopped reading here and “Google image” the eggs. It’s worth the effort. 

At first, when small, the caterpillars stay together but after going through growth stages known as instars they separate. A mature caterpillar is black with eight orange dots and is heavily spined which, if touched, can irritate the skin. The pupa, the case in which the miracle of metamorphosis occurs, is also spined. On Long Island the butterflies emerge in early to mid-summer and will, if the weather grows hot, aestivate (kind of like hibernation in the summer). Another emergence can occur in the fall.  

As with so many elements of the natural world, butterflies unfortunately are declining in abundance and mourning cloaks are no exception. In a recently published study  measuring population trends of North American butterfly species, the mourning cloak has declined by about 22% over the past quarter century. This alarming decline appears due to a combination of continued widespread pesticide use, climate change, and habitat loss. 

How can you help this iconic harbinger of spring? By foregoing the use of pesticides, leaving on your property standing dead and dying trees with their sheltered protective cavities and sloughing bark, and supporting organizations devoted to butterfly conservation such as the Xerces Society.  

A resident of Setauket, author John L. Turner is a naturalist, conservation co-chair of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, and Conservation Policy Advocate for the Seatuck Environmental Association.

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