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METRO photo
Sleeping well can have positive long-term effects

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

It’s hard to avoid the flood of advertisements for products — from supplements to “brain games” — that promise to help us avoid cognitive decline as we age. Fear of slowing down cognitively as we age is a big driver of sales, I’m sure.

What do we really know about the brain, though?

We know that head injuries and certain drugs can have negative effects. Many neurological, infectious, and rheumatologic disorders can also have long-term effects. Examples include autoimmune and psychiatric mood disorders, diabetes and heart disease. In these cases, addressing the underlying medical issue is critical. 

Lifestyle choices also make a difference. Several studies suggest that we may be able to help our brains function more effectively by making simple lifestyle changes around our sleep and exercise habits. It’s also possible that taking omega-3s can help.

What is brain clutter?

Are 20-somethings more quick-witted than people over 60? It’s a common societal assumption.

German researchers put this to the test. They found that educated older people tend to have a larger mental database of words and phrases to draw upon when responding to a question (1). When this was factored into their simulation analysis, the difference in terms of age-related cognitive decline was negligible.

However, the more you know, the harder it can be to provide a simple answer to a question, leading to slower processing and response times.

Interestingly, a recent study that analyzed trends from three separate studies of brain health and aging found that older adults’ cognition has been increasing over time (2). The author notes that much of this can be attributed to environmental factors, such as education, healthcare and nutrition. Interestingly, younger adults’ cognition has not changed over the same study periods.

Let’s take a closer look at things we can control in our daily lives.

Regulating sleep

Researchers have identified two specific benefits we receive from sleep: clearing the mind and increased productivity.

For the former, a study done in mice shows that sleep may help the brain remove waste, such as beta-amyloid plaques (3). Excessive plaque buildup in the brain may be a sign of Alzheimer’s. When mice were sleeping, the interstitial space (the space between brain structures) increased by as much as 60 percent.

This allowed the lymphatic system, with its cerebrospinal fluid, to clear out plaques, toxins and other waste that had developed during waking hours. With the enlargement of the interstitial space during sleep, waste removal was quicker and more thorough, because cerebrospinal fluid could reach much farther. A similar effect was seen when the mice were anesthetized.

An Australian study showed that sleep deprivation may have contributed to an almost one percent decline in gross domestic product (4). Why? When people don’t get enough sleep, they are not as productive. They tend to be more irritable, and their concentration may be affected. While we may be able to turn on and off sleepiness in the short term, we can’t do this continually.

One study found that sleep deprivation results were comparable to alcohol impairment (5). Subjects’ response time and accuracy with assigned tasks after 17-19 hours without sleep were the same or worse than their performance when they had a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of .05 percent. With more than 19 hours of sleeplessness, performance equaled .1 percent BAC.

Exercise’s impact

One study with rats suggests that a lack of exercise can cause unwanted new brain connections. Rats that were not allowed to exercise were found to have rewired neurons around their medulla, the part of the brain involved in breathing and other involuntary activities. This included more sympathetic (excitatory) stimulus that could lead to increased risk of heart disease (6). 

Among the rats allowed to exercise regularly, there was no unusual wiring, and sympathetic stimuli remained constant. 

An analysis of 98 randomized controlled trials assessing exercise’s cognitive results in older adults, both with and without cognitive impairment, found that a minimum of 52 hours of physical exercise distributed over 25 weeks led to improvements in cognitive function. Physical exercise included aerobic, resistance (strength) training, mind–body exercises, or combinations of these. The authors suggest that, based on the data trends, benefits accumulate over time (7).

Omega-3 fatty acids

The hippocampus is involved in memory and cognitive function. In the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study, results showed that postmenopausal women who were in the highest quartile of measured omega-3 fatty acids had significantly greater brain volume and hippocampal volume than those in the lowest quartile (8). 

Specifically, the researchers looked at the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in red blood cell membranes. The source of the omega-3 fatty acids was from either fish or supplementation.

While we have a lot to learn about maintaining brain function as we age, it’s comforting to know that we can positively influence it with lifestyle adjustments, including improving our sleep quality, exercising, and ensuring we consume enough omega-3 fatty acids.

References:

(1) Top Cogn Sci. 2014 Jan;6:5-42. (2) Dev Review. 2024 Mar 19 online. (3) Science. 2013 Oct. 18;342:373-377. (4) Sleep. 2006 Mar.;29:299-305. (5) Occup Environ Med. 2000 Oct;57(10):649-55. (6) J Comp Neurol. 2014 Feb. 15;522:499-513. (7) Neurol Clin Pract. 2018 Jun;8(3):257–265. (8) Neurology. 2014;82:435-442.

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 Battle of Yorktown stamp unveiled by the USPS on April 16.

Together with the U.S. National Park Service, the U.S. Postal Service held a ceremony at Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord, MA on April 16 to dedicate its new Battlefields of the American Revolution stamps.

“These stamps celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation and pay tribute to the heroes who fought and sacrificed for American independence,” said Judy de Torok, the Postal Service’s corporate affairs vice president, who served as the stamps’ dedicating official. “We are proud to partner with the National Park Service to commemorate and honor the enduring legacy of these historic battlefields.”

“The National Park Service is honored to host the U.S. Postal Service’s first-day-of-issue ceremony for the Battlefields of the American Revolution stamps,” said Simone Monteleone, Minute Man National Historical Park superintendent. “Having the ceremony at the site of the opening battle of the American Revolution provides another opportunity for visitors to participate in the 250th anniversary.”

Other participants at the ceremony were Paul O’Shaughnessy, master of ceremonies and Friends of Minute Man National Park board president; Kerry Lafleur, Concord, MA, town manager; Steve Bartha, Lexington, MA, town manager; Lt. Col. Geoffrey Love, Massachusetts National Guard historical services director and curator of its museum; Donald Hafner, historian, author and former Boston College professor; Liza Stearns, National Parks of Boston deputy superintendent; and Lauren Roberts, Saratoga County, NY, historian and Saratoga 250th American Revolution Commission chair.

Background

On farm fields and town greens, along countryside byways and city lanes, the people of a new nation — some famous, others forever unknown — committed their lives to American independence. As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary next year, the Postal Service honors the battlefields where so many sacrificed to make independence possible.

With photographs and historic sites alongside dramatic illustrations of pivotal moments in the American Revolution, this pane of stamps focuses on five turning points in the war: the battles of Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, Trenton, Saratoga and Yorktown.

Many of the places and buildings associated with these battles have been preserved or restored as museums, monuments, and national, state, or local parks. As part of the multiyear celebration of America’s 250th birthday, the Postal Service hopes these stamps will inspire the public to visit these and other sites from the Revolutionary era and contemplate the long threads of history that connect us to the first generation of Americans.

Stamp Design

The pane of 15 stamps is arranged in five rows, with each row dedicated to one of the five battles. Each row features a photograph of a site linked to the battle, complemented by a watercolor illustration depicting a scene from that battle.

The Battle of Lexington and Concord is represented by a modern photograph of the Old North Bridge and an illustration showing American militia members retaking the bridge from the withdrawing British on April 19, 1775.

The Battle of Bunker Hill is represented by an illustration showing the second British assault on Breed’s Hill on June 17, 1775, from the perspective of the defending Americans, alongside a photograph of the Bunker Hill Monument in modern-day Boston.

The Battle of Trenton is represented by a recent photograph showing the Old Barracks Museum, which housed Hessian and British soldiers in Trenton, NJ, before the Dec. 26, 1776, battle, and an illustration showing George Washington and some of his officers during their daring crossing of the Delaware River prior to the battle.

The Battle of Saratoga is represented by an illustration showing British Lt. Gen. John Burgoyne handing his sword as a symbol of surrender to Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates on Oct. 17, 1777, with men from both sides looking on. Alongside the illustration is a modern photograph of a replica of a British howitzer on the lawn of the visitors’ center at Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, NY.

The Battle of Yorktown is represented by a modern photograph of two British defenses taken by Americans and their French allies during the autumn 1781 siege in Virginia and reconstructed by the National Park Service — Redoubt 9 in the foreground and Redoubt 10 in the background. Alongside the photograph is an illustration depicting the formal surrender of the British on Oct. 19, 1781.

The title “Battlefields of the American Revolution” appears at the top of the stamp pane. The names and dates of each battle, which encompass the dates of the two British surrenders, appear on the selvage to the right of each row of stamps. In the top right corner of the selvage are the opening words of the first pamphlet in Thomas Paine’s series, “The American Crisis.” Published in December 1776, the pamphlet was read aloud to George Washington’s troops on Dec. 23, 1776, three days before the Battle of Trenton. Inspired to write “The American Crisis” by low civilian morale and the grim state of the Colonial army that winter, Paine hoped to bolster American resolve. He had previously written “Common Sense,” a pamphlet that decried monarchy and made a clear and forceful case for American independence.

Derry Noyes, an art director for USPS, designed the stamps, with illustrations by Greg Harlin and photographs by Jon Bilous, Richard Lewis, Tom Morris, Gregory J. Parker and Kevin Stewart.

The Battlefields of the American Revolution stamps are being issued as Forever stamps and will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce rate.

Customers may purchase the stamps through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, first-day-of-issue ceremonies and stamp-inspired products can be found at StampsForever.com.

 

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Charles Hller (Rami Malek) takes revenge after his wife (Rachel Brosnahan) is murdered. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Revenge is a favored plot devices of the thriller genre. Studios release dozens, if not hundreds, of films each year, drawing from this seemingly endless well. Cinema is populated with tales of the average (usually) man retaliating for the abduction or death of a loved one (spouse/parent/child). The hero, discovering new-found or dormant resources, overcomes evil, destroys their opponents, and allows the audience a vicarious sense of justice. 

Robert Littell worked for many years as a Newsweek journalist during the Cold War, serving as the magazine’s foreign correspondent from 1965 to 1970. Beginning with The Defection of A.J. Lewinter (1973), the award-winning Littell wrote over twenty spy novels, many concerning the CIA and the Soviet Union, the most recent A Plague on Both Your Houses: A Novel in the Shadow of the Russian Mafia (2024). 

Rami Malek in a scene from ‘The Amateur’. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios

With Diana Maddox, Littell co-adapted The Amateur (1981) for the screen, starring John Savage and Christopher Plummer. Director James Hawes helms the current remake, with a screenplay by Ken Nolan and Gary Spinelli. Taking the novel’s basic story but eschewing many of the more interesting details, they have fashioned a by-the-numbers thriller that, for all its drive, never builds momentum. 

Low-key (almost somnambulic) Charles Heller (Rami Malek) works as a CIA cryptographer. His wife, professional photographer Sarah Horowitz (Rachel Brosnahan), travels to London on business. She is taken hostage and murdered during an illegal arms deal gone wrong. 

Grief-stricken, Heller decides to kill the four terrorists. Leveraging information he uncovered about a drone strike cover-up, he blackmails Special Activities Center Director Alex Moore (Holt McCallany) for information. Furious but cornered, Moore buys time by sending Heller for training with Colonel Robert Henderson (Laurence Fishburne). Once in Europe, Heller methodically hunts down his wife’s killers. He teams up briefly with an anonymous source, Inquiline (Caitriona Balfe), but most of his work is done solo, with Heller harnessing his genius rather than his limited physical skills.

The film travels from Paris to Marseilles, Istanbul to Madrid, and finally Constanta (Romania) to the Baltic Sea, where the climax is a low-grade confrontation between Heller and the mastermind, Horst Schiller (Michael Stuhlbarg).

While The Amateur contains little original, the novel touched on a few insightful pieces, particularly connections to the Holocaust. With the story updated to the present, these aspects and one of the most interesting characters, a shadowy figure known as the Professor, have been eliminated. Even Heller’s fascination with the identity of the author of Shakespeare’s plays is absent, leaving Heller a one-note character.

If anything, the film highlights technological change, with a world run by computers and monitored in every corner by thousands of cameras. However, these devices have become central rather than tools for telling the story.

Rami Malek in a scene from ‘The Amateur’. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios

Rami Malek rose to prominence with the USA Network’s Mr. Robot, for which he received an Emmy for Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His big-screen work included the Night at the Museum trilogy, Larry Crowne, The Master, and Need for Speed. But his breakout came with his Oscar-winning performance as Queen’s singer-songwriter, Freddie Mercury, in the biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. 

Malek is unquestionably an unusual and gifted actor, capable of complexity, variety, and style. But his performance as Heller is so subdued as not to register. Except for one beautiful moment when he opens Sarah’s suitcase, he seems to play Heller without a heartbeat. For Malek, The Amateur will be remembered as an in-between film, a bland undertaking contrasting with better and more textured work. 

Brosnahan is relegated to two short scenes, a handful of flashbacks, and a couple of “visions” that do little to show her range or talent. The always watchable Fishburne barely appears; there is a sense that he was shot for expediency, getting his scenes filmed in as few days as possible. 

Balfe is fine as Inquiline but saddled with sharing her history rather than revealing character through action (and the screenplay does her no favors, ignoring the more complicated background introduced in the book). McCallany does the best he can with a stock political villain. It is left to Jon Bernthal, as an operative known as “The Bear,” to provide an off-beat glimmer. 

Unfortunately, The Amateur offers no growth and certainly no catharsis. The resolution lacks a final of energy or surprising revelations. 

The final ten minutes wrap up the big picture, followed by a vaguely uncomfortable exchange meant to be humorous, ending with a simplistic final image unsubtly telegraphed earlier. 

For two hours, everything happens, and nothing happens. The constant movement possesses motivation but no sense of internal purpose. The film is both literally and figuratively bloodless. In the end, The Amateur provides a generic espionage drama with perpetual action but little intrigue.

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

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'Sweet Dreams, Northport!'

By Melissa Arnold

We’re fortunate on Long Island to have so many beautiful places to explore. Each village has its own personality and unique perks, from popular mainstays to hidden gems.

Author and entrepreneur Tsvetta Kaleynska has traveled all over the world and takes great joy in uncovering the beauty in each new destination she visits. Originally from Bulgaria, the New York City resident wants to instill a love of travel and exploration not just in her own daughters, but in young readers everywhere.

‘Sweet Dreams, Northport!’

Kaleynska has written an independently-published series of Sweet Dreams children’s books and coloring books celebrating some of the world’s greatest cities, including Tokyo, London, and Madrid to name a few. And now, our very own Northport is among them.

“I ended up establishing my roots in [New York City]. After becoming a mom, my family and I began exploring what’s around NYC, and building an appreciation and love for new places and what our area has to offer,” Kaleynska said. “Several years ago, we stumbled upon Northport and instantly fell in love with it. We’ve had the privilege of meeting some of the local community as well, and I was inspired by the people of Northport who truly make this village feel so special.”

The illustrated, rhyming story for early readers says goodnight, one page at a time, to all of Northport’s recognizable landmarks. Main Street, the library and even the John W. Engeman Theater get their own shout-out, along with Eaton’s Neck Lighthouse, Ashroken Beach and Northport Village Park.

Kaleynska also makes a point to honor first responders and teachers, saying goodnight to them as well.

“I wanted to have a dedicated section for these special people and heroes, from our firefighters, policemen, and doctors to all the regular people whose kindness and warmth make Northport a remarkable place,” Kaleynska said.

Computer technology was used to turn photographs of Northport into vibrant and detailed illustrations. It’s easy to feel transported into the scenes and imagine yourself walking down by the harbor or looking into the windows of a shop on Main Street. 

Kaleynska said that each image was carefully crafted to bring Northport to life in a way that feels both familiar and inviting to young readers. And if these places are new to your family, the book offers a great excuse to jump in the car and go exploring.

“As for my favorite memory of Northport, there are so many! But one that stands out is sitting on a bench near the Northport dock with my husband and girls, sharing ice cream and watching the boats go by as the sun sets,” Kaleynska recalled. “Beautiful moments with loved ones like that is what inspires me daily.”

Perfect for toddlers ages 1 to 4, Sweet Dreams, Northport! is available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Keep in touch with the latest from Tsvetta Kaleynska on Instagram @tsvetta.

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Take part in a community clean-up event during Earth Day. Photo courtesy of Wading River Shoreham Chamber of Commerce

By Heidi Sutton

Whether you choose to participate in a beach or park clean-up, nature walk or a fun festival, there are plenty of ways to show your love for the planet for Earth Day over the next few weeks.

Huntington

Family Fun Earth Day Celebration

Town of Huntington hosts a family-friendly Earth Day celebration at Manor Farm Park, 210 Manor Road, Huntington on Saturday, May 3 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. 631-351-3175

Melville

Earth Day Celebration – This event has been postponed to May 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

West Hills County Park, Sweet Hollow Road, Melville and Suffolk County Leg. Rebecca Sanin will host an Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a DDR horse show, live poetry readings and music, lawn games, farmers market, food vendors, environmental information booths and free giveaways. No registration necessary. 631-854-5100

Mount Sinai

Community Beach Clean-Up

Town of Brookhaven will hold an Every Day is Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at the Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mount Sinai on Saturday, April 19 at 2 p.m. to remove litter and marine debris from the coastline. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Port Jefferson Station

Greenway Trail Cleanup

In celebration of Earth Day, the Three Village Community Trust will host a Friends of the Greenway trail clean-up at the Port Jefferson Station trailhead (parking lot by Rte. 112/Hallock Avenue) on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

Ronkonkoma

Bird Walk and Trash Cleanup

Join the Four Harbors Audubon Society for a Bird Walk and Trash Cleanup at Lily Pond County Park, Smithtown Blvd., Lake Ronkonkoma on Tuesday, April 22 at 8 a.m.  in celebration of Earth Day and in memory of Diane Spitz, who spent many years as unofficial caretaker of the Park. Please bring gloves and bags. Email [email protected] to register.

Shoreham 

Metal for Tesla

Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, 5 Randall Rd, Shoreham will host its annual Metal for Tesla scrap metal drop-off event (appliances, car parts, shelving etc.) in honor of Earth Day on Saturday, April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 631-886-2632

Smithtown

Earth Day at Sweetbriar

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown invites the community to an Earth Day is Every Day celebration on Sunday, April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. Children will meet resident animals, make a craft and go on a scavenger hunt to find out some of the things they can do to help the natural world. Best for families with children over 4 years old. $15 per child, $5 per adults. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. For more info, call 631-979-6344.

Stony Brook

Earthstock Festival at SBU

The signature Earthstock Festival returns to Stony Brook University’s West campus, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on Friday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with vendors, live music, a duck race, lots of activities and performances. Free and open to all. Visit www.stonybrook.edu/earthstock.

Community Beach Clean-Up

Town of Brookhaven will hold an Every Day is Earth Day Beach Clean-Up at West Meadow Beach in Stony Brook on Saturday, April 19 at 10 a.m. to remove litter and marine debris from the coastline. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required by emailing [email protected].

Train Station Beautification Project

The Three Village Community Trust invites the community to join them for the Stony Brook Train Station Beautification Project on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for Earth Day. The group will be weeding, clearing fallen branches, removing litter, de-vining trees, and other tasks to beautify the Station. Bring your gloves and garden tools. 631-942-4558

Wading River

SWR Earth Day Cleanup

The Wading River Shoreham Chamber of Commerce invites the community to  participate in an Earth Day Clean-up event on Sunday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. Meet at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River for a day of environmental stewardship. Supplies will be provided or feel free to bring you own. Community service credits available. Held rain or shine. Register at www.wadingrivershorehamchamber.com.

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'AS SWEET AS PIE' Catch a performance of 'Waitress' at the Engeman Theater this weekend. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater

*Please note: Earth Day events will be posted separately.

Thursday April 17

Huntington Walking Tour

Huntington Historical Society presents a Masonic temple tour with Ron Seifried, Chairman, Jephtha Masonic Lodge and Town Historian Robert Hughes at 6:30 p.m. Participants will learn about their history, practices, mission, and historic significance, and will be able to enjoy a drink from the lodge bar. This tour will begin at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, located at 228 Main Street in Huntington Village. $25 per person, $20 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Friday April 18

Third Friday at the Reboli Center

The Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook invites the community to an opening reception of Getting There, an exhibition that delves into the artistic exploration of various modes of transportation and featuring the work of Joseph Reboli, Nelson Medina, Peter Nettesheim, Doug Reina, Marshall Buck, Chris Kelsch and more; and Built by Hand: The Shipbuilding Legacy of Nehemiah Hand  curated by the Three Village Historical Society and Museum from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. 631-751-7707

An Evening of Jazz

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the Harry Allen Quartet in concert at 7 p.m. Harry Allen, 2024 inductee into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, joins with the great pianist Rossano Sportiello to lead a quartet with Mike Karn on bass and Aaron Kimmel on drums. This swinging quartet will perform selections from the Great American Songbook, the great jazz composers and original compositions. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children ages 6 and up. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Open Mic Night

Drop by the Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station for an Open Mic Night at 7 p.m. Whether you’re a poet, musician, singer or comedian, this is your time to shine. All acts welcome. Refreshments will be served. $10 admission. Register at www.waltwhitman.org.

Saturday April 19

Port Jefferson Easter Parade

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Easter Parade along Main Street in the Village of Port Jefferson at 12:45 p.m. Enjoy an old-fashioned “Easter Bonnet” walking parade from Theatre Three to the Port Jefferson Village Center (all are welcome to wear their Easter best and march) followed by an Easter Egg Hunt on Harborfront Park’s Great Lawn at 1 p.m. for children ages 2 to 8. 631-473-1414 

Yard Sale fundraiser

Farmingville Fire Department, 780 Horseblock Road Farmingville hosts a multi-family Yard Sale fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shop for toys, games, housewares, books, videos, clothing, outdoor items, costumes, small furniture and more. Proceeds benefit the Sachem Flaming Arrows Marching Band. 

Walking History Tour

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead will hold a Walking History Tour from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Richard Wines and Paul Hoffman will lead a tour of the farm about the Polish migration to Long Island during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  $10 per person, free for members. www.hallockville.org

Outdoor Thrift Garage Sale

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will hold an Outdoor Thrift Garage Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. around the double garage in its parking lot. Shop for household items and fun treasures! Proceeds benefit the wildlife center. 631-979-6344

Easter Celebration at the Shoppes

Join the Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River for an Easter Celebration with the Easter Bunny from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop for last minute Easter gifts while the kids enjoy a bounce house and carousel (fee) and take a free photo with the Easter Bunny. Held rain or shine. 631-929-3500

Easter Celebration in Smithtown

Rescheduled from April 12. Hop over to the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown for an Easter Celebration from noon to 2 p.m. Enjoy a day of farm fun with spring crafts, an Easter scavenger hunt for a special prize and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $10 per person, $7 members, children under the age of 3 in advance at www.eventbrite.com or at the door.

Sunday April 20

Intro to Wilderness Survival

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

Monday April 21

TVHS lecture

Three Village Historical Society  continues its lecture series via Zoom at 7 p.m. with a presentation by author Mark Torres titled Long Island and the Legacy of Eugenics. Join them for a compelling and eye-opening discussion on the dark history of eugenics and its deep ties to Long Island. Advance registration required at www.tvhs.org.

Tuesday April 22

NSJC Social Club event

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

North Democratic Club Meeting

New location! The North Brookhaven Democratic Club monthly meeting tonight  from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. has been moved to the Small Activity Room at the North Shore Public Library, 250 Route 25A, Shoreham. For more information contact [email protected].

Wednesday April 23

Northport Volunteer Fair

Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport will hold a Volunteer Fair from 10 a.m. to noon. Speak with representatives from over 20 local organizations that are actively seeking volunteers. No registration required. Questions Call 631-261-6930.

Arbor Day Celebration

Village of Port Jefferson invites the community to its 2nd annual Arbor Day Celebration in front of Village Hall on West Broadway from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a flag-raising ceremony designating the Village as a Tree City USA community, speeches from elected officials, the reading of a poem from a local school student, a tree planting in front of Village Hall and give-aways of native tree and shrub “whips.” Hosted by the PJV Tree Committee. All are welcome. Held rain or shine. 631-473-4724

Cruise Night at The Shoppes

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River kicks off a Cruise Night Car Show tonight and 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

Homemaker’s Spring Auction

The Miller Place Homemakers will hold a  Spring Auction featuring handmade items and beautiful baskets at Miller Place High School, 15 Memorial Drive, Miller Place at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary coffee, tea and refreshments. $10 entrance fee plus a non-perishable food item includes a door prize ticket and 25 auction tickets. 

Trivia Night at Curry Club

Join the Curry Club @ SaGhar, 111 West Broadway, Port Jefferson for a Night of Trivia at 7 p.m.  Enjoy a fun evening of questions, answers, and mouthwatering masala! Prizes for the winning team, fun for everyone. Free to play with purchase. Hosted by Think Inc. Trivia. For reservations, call 631-751-4845.

Thursday April 24

Winds & Whales lecture

Join the Whaling Museum in Cold Spring Harbor for an online lecture, Winds & Whales, at 6 p.m. Rhianna Bozzi from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will speak about recent progress in offshore wind and to sort out fact from fiction when it comes to the effects this development has on local whale populations. Free. $10 donation appreciated. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church Rectory, 5 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook hosts an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.  Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Free. 631-655-7798

Vanderbilt Book Talk 

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its lecture series with Dr. John T. Tanacredi, Ph.D., Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Former Director of CERCOM (Center for Environmental Research and Coastal Oceans Monitoring), at Molloy University, who will give a talk on his latest book, The Redesigned Earth: A Brief Review of Ecology for Engineers, as if the Earth Really Mattered, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. To RSVP, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Next Chapter book signing

Join The Next Chapter Bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington welcomes former New York Mets and author Art Shamsky from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Shamsky will be speaking and signing copies of his book, Mets Stories I Only Tell My Friends. Free admission. www.thenextchapterli.com

Walt Whitman Birthplace lecture

Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station presents a lecture titled How Leaves of Grass Influenced Modern Day Self-Healing at 7 p.m. Museum curator Margaret Guardi and Curator Assistant Derry Schafer will discuss how Whitman’s fan and close friend Dr. Richard Maurice Bucke and his magnum opus Cosmic Consciousness. Tickets are $!0. To register, visit www.waltwhitman.org.

An Evening of Comedy

The Comedy Club returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. with another outrageous night of live stand-up featuring Paul Anthony, John Larocchia and Joe DeVito. Come early and enjoy a beverage from Griswold’s Bar. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Film

‘The Lady of the Lake’

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  kicks off its Local Filmmakers Series with a screening of The Lady of the Lake on April 19 at 1 p.m. Based on the Native American folklore of the Princess of Lake Ronkonkoma, the movie was filmed in the actual childhood home of the Ronkonkoma-raised filmmaker, Maria Capp. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

‘The Here Now Project’

In honor of Earth Day, The Nature Conservancy will screen The Here Now Project at the  Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on April 23 at 6:30 p.m. Built out of thousands of hours of in-the-moment footage, the film transforms the ordinary act of shooting a cell phone video into the radical act of bearing witness, capturing both the simultaneous, global nature of climate change itself and the deeply human resilience, resourcefulness, and courage needed to confront it. Followed by a panel discussion. Free. To RSVP, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Front Row’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series closes its spring season with Front Row at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 24 at 7 p.m. The film showcases the Ukrainian National Ballet’s poignant company tour as it performs far from the frontlines and invites a soldier who lost his legs to partake in a singular performance. Followed by a discussion about the film and Ukraine with Professor Juliette Passer of Stony Brook University. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Pink Floyd at Pompeii’

A screening of Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII, the groundbreaking 1972 film directed by Adrian Maben, now digitally re-mastered in 4K from the original 35mm footage with enhanced audio, will be held at  the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington on April 24 at 7:30 p.m. and April 27 at 7 p.m. Set in the haunting ruins of the ancient Roman Amphitheater in Pompeii, it showcases Pink Floyd performing an intimate concert without an audience. The film includes stunning visuals, behind-the-scenes moments, and unforgettable tracks like “Echoes” and “One of These Days” along with additional Abbey Road Studios documentary segments covering the recording of 1973’s The Dark Side of the Moon. Tickets are $18, $12 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Theater

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘The Minutes’

North Shore United Methodist Church, 260 Rte. 25A, Wading River presents three performances of The Minutes on April 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and April 27 at 3 p.m. A comedy by Pulitzer Prize-winning Tracy Letts, the play is written as a city council meeting happening in real time, with a motley crew of community members vying for control and influence. Presented by Riverhead Faculty and Community Theatre, directed by Huck Hirsch. Tickets $20 adults, $15 students $15 in advance by calling 631-929-6075 or at the door. 

‘Wait Until Dark’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Wait Until Dark from April 18 to May 11. One of the American theatre’s greatest suspense plays, 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.

‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’

Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents Priscilla, Queen of the Desert — The Musical in the Shea Theater in the Islip Arts Building April 17 to 19 and April 23 to 26 at 7:30 p.m. and  April 27 at 2 p.m. Based on the smash-hit movie, the play is the heartwarming, uplifting adventure of three friends, Tick, Bernadette and Adam, a glamorous Sydney-based performing trio who agree to take their show to the middle of the Australian outback. Featuring hits like “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” “Hot Stuff,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Go West,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” and “I Love The Nightlife.” General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID get one free ticket. To order, call 631-451-4163.

(mostly) TRUE THINGS 

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents a (mostly) TRUE THINGS Storytelling Show on April 26 at 7 p.m. Join them for a compelling evening of true stories – with a twist on the theme GAME ON! Hosted by Jude Treder-Wolff, the show will feature Marc Abbott, Aaron Foss, Cyndi Zaweski, and Jezrie-Mercano-Courtney. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only).

‘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. 

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

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. from Jan. 12 through April 27. 631-802-216

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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METRO photo
Get out and enjoy Spring!

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Ah, the paradox of Spring. Trees and bushes are in full bloom, and flowers are popping up everywhere. For those with seasonal allergies — also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever — it’s challenging to balance the desire to be outside with the discomfort it can bring.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 25.7 percent of U.S. adults and 18.9 percent of children were diagnosed with seasonal allergies in 2021 (1). Triggers include pollen from leafy trees, shrubs, grass, flowering plants, and weeds.

What prompts allergic reactions?

Sufferers experience a chain reaction when they inhale pollen. It interacts with immunoglobulin E (IgE), antibodies that are part of our immune system and causes mast cells in the body’s tissues to degrade and release inflammatory mediators. These include histamines, leukotrienes, and eosinophils in those who are susceptible. In other words, it is an allergic inflammatory response.

The revved up immune system then responds with sneezing; red, itchy and watery eyes; scratchy throat; congestion; sinus headaches; postnasal drip; runny nose; diminished taste and smell; and even coughing (3). It can feel like a common cold, but without the virus. If you have symptoms that last more than 10 days and are recurrent, then it is more likely you have allergies than a virus.

If allergic rhinitis is not treated, it can lead to complications like ear infections, sinusitis, irritated throat, insomnia, chronic fatigue, headaches and even asthma (4).

What medications help? 

If you don’t want to seal yourself inside, to prevent allergy attacks, you might consider medications to reduce your symptoms.

Options include intranasal glucocorticoids (steroids), oral antihistamines, allergy shots, decongestants, antihistamine and decongestant eye drops.

The guidelines for treating seasonal allergic rhinitis with medications suggest that you use intranasal corticosteroids (steroids) when your quality of life suffers (5). Two commonly used inhaled steroids are triamcinolone (Nasacort) and fluticasone propionate (Flonase). They need to be used daily and can cause side effects, including headaches.

If itchiness and sneezing are your greatest challenges, second-generation oral antihistamines may be appropriate. These can be taken “as needed.” Examples include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra). These have less sleepiness as a side effect than first-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl, but they don’t work for everyone.

Is butterbur an effective treatment?

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) leaf extract has several small studies that indicate its efficacy in treating seasonal allergies. Butterbur is a shrub found in Europe, Asia and North America. 

In one randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 131 patients, results showed that butterbur was as effective as cetirizine (Zyrtec) (6). In another RCT, results showed that high doses of butterbur — 1 tablet given three times a day for two weeks — was significantly more effective than placebo (7). Researchers used butterbur Ze339 (carbon dioxide extract from the leaves of Petasites hybridus L., 8 mg petasines per tablet) in the trial.

A post-marketing follow-up study of 580 patients showed that, with butterbur Ze339, symptoms improved in 90 percent of patients with allergic rhinitis over a two-week period (8). Gastrointestinal upset occurred as the most common side effect in 3.8 percent of the study population.

There are several important caveats about using butterbur. The leaf extract used in studies was free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). PAs have been implicated in causing liver and lung damage and may cause cancer (9). Also, studies used well-measured doses, which may not be the case with over-the-counter extracts. Finally, there are interactions with some prescription medications.

If you are allergic to butterbur-related plants, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies, butterbur may cause an allergic reaction (9).

Can dietary changes treat seasonal allergies? 

There are no significant studies specifically on using diet; however, there is one literature review that suggests a plant-based diet may reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies in teens, as well as eczema and asthma (10). In my clinical practice, many patients with seasonal allergies have improved and even reversed the course of allergies over time with a vegetable-rich, plant-based diet. This might be due to its anti-inflammatory effects. Analogously, some physicians suggest that their patients have improved after removing dairy from their diets.

While allergies can make you miserable, there are many over-the-counter and prescription options to help. Diet may play a role by reducing inflammation. There does seem to be promise with butterbur extracts, there are caveats. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements, herbs or over-the-counter medications.

References:

(1) CDC.gov. (2) acaai.org/allergies/types/pollen-allergy. (3) J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2003 Dec;112(6):1021-31.. (4) J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Jan;125(1):16-29.. (5) Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Feb;2:197-206. (6) BMJ 2002;324:144. (7) Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2004 Dec;130(12):1381-6. (8) Adv Ther. Mar-Apr 2006;23(2):373-84. (9) ncchih.nih.gov. (10) Eur Respir J. 2001;17(3):436-443.

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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Naomi Watts as Iris and Bing the Great Dane as Apollo in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Bleeker Street

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

“What will happen to the dog?” That question is the inciting force of The Friend, Scott McGehee and David Siegel’s meditative adaptation of Sigrid Nunez’s 2018 novel, winner of the National Book Award for Fiction.

Canine cinema is its own subgenre. From Old Yeller to As Good as It Gets, Marley & Me to The Art of Racing in the Rain, the four-legged companions have threaded through dozens, if not hundreds, of stories. The films (Cujo excepted) focus on the transformative power for and of the love of dogs. From tear-jerkers to family farces, man’s best friend has often provided a mirror of their companions’ hearts, minds, and souls. 

Naomi Watts as Iris and Bing the Great Dane as Apollo in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Bleeker Street

The Friend lives in the intersecting worlds of literature and academia. Writer-former professor Walter (Bill Murray) takes his own life, and his third wife, Barbara (Noma Dumezweni), asks his former graduate student, colleague, and friend, Iris (Naomi Watts), to adopt his dog, a Great Dane named Apollo (Bing). Reluctantly, Iris agrees to temporarily house the dog in her rent-controlled New York apartment, where Hektor (Felix Solis), the superintendent, reminds her that pets are forbidden in the building. The film follows the usual path of distance to acceptance to bonding. 

While the description might indicate a by-the-numbers tale, The Friend rises above the basic. Iris and the denizens of her narrow, mostly intellectual world dwell in inner emptiness. Even Walter’s death leaves them numb, struggling to find meaning or even feeling. (It is no coincidence that Walter’s hero was the existential and almost perpetual bleak writer Samuel Beckett.) 

Iris, a self-proclaimed cat person, lives without a cat. Though the claim could be because of the apartment rules, it is more likely about her disconnection from connection. She collaborates with Walter’s illegitimate daughter, Val (Sarah Pidgeon), editing a book of Walter’s correspondence. But the undertaking is sluggish, frustrating, and unsatisfying. The publisher, Jerry (Josh Pais), pressures them to finish as there is “more interest in a dead Walter.” 

Iris’s mixed views about Walter (a serial philanderer) seep into every moment of Watts’ strikingly understated performance. Her Iris dwells in a sort of twilight void; the conflict and eventual acceptance of Apollo awakens her spirit, giving her life and giving that life meaning. Watts creates a powerfully subtle, multi-dimensional Iris. Watts is not so much slow as methodical, breathing the struggle of daily life. She is nothing less than riveting.

Naomi Watts as Iris and Bill Murray as Walter in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Bleeker Street

Watts is surrounded by equally restrained and effective performances. The always reliable Dumezweni grounds Barbara; Pidgeon makes the daughter simultaneously free-spirited and haunted; Constance Wu brings the right touch of narcissism to Tuesday, the insufferable second wife. Solis and Ann Dowd, as neighbor and friend, Marjorie, offer some of the brighter, warmer colors. 

Murray appears in a brief prologue, a few short flashbacks, and a fascinating speculative scene in which Iris attempts to work out her relationship with the dead man through the process of writing. Murray finds sweetness and restraint adding to Walter’s contradictory behaviors.

The only one who seems to truly mourn Walter is Apollo. From the drive from the kennel with Apollo gazing sadly out the taxi window to his coopting of Iris’s bed where he lays woefully inert, Bing brings a heart-breaking “humanity” to the Great Dane. (World-famous Bill Berloni is the supervisory animal trainer.)

The Friend can be summed up simply: Dogs are good. Dogs heal. Dogs provide hope. Dogs change lives. It still comes down to “What will happen to the dog?” But, with McGehee and Siegel’s mutely elegant screenplay and fluid, sensitive direction, Watts’ cathartic Iris, and a first-rate supporting cast, The Friend transcends expectations and delivers a memorable, occasionally painful, but ultimately hopeful film.  

Rated R, the film is now playing in local theaters.

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STEP RIGHT UP! Bubi the Clown invites you to Flip Circus under the big top at the Smith Haven Mall through April 15. Photo courtesy of Flip Circus
Ongoing

Flip Circus in Lake Grove

Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove from April 4 to 15. Experience the magical moments under the red and white big top with trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers and more! Show times are 7 p.m. on weekdays; and 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $15 for children and $50 for adults, with senior/military/handicap and family pack discounts available at www.flipcircus.com or at the  box office during each engagement.

Thursday April 10

TCAC art reception

Trinity Community Art Center, 130 Main St., Northport invites the community to an opening reception for “Reflections of Autism” by artist Erich Preis from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibition runs through April 27. 631-637-2278

Atelier at Flowerfield reception

Join the Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield, Suites 6 & 9, St. James for an opening reception for “Inside and Outside The Box,” a solo exhibition of Dino Rinaldi’s latest artwork, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The exhibit runs through May 22. 631-250-9009

Crafts & Cocktails

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for Crafts & Cocktails: Beachy Botanicals from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Just in time for spring, enjoy the floral notes of a refreshing Botanical Bliss cocktail or mocktail while crafting a unique whelk shell planter. Discover the cultural history of the channel whelk, then be inspired by the swirling geometry of these shells as you decorate your planter complete with a plantlet to take home! For adults 21 and up. $35 per person. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Spring Wreath Making Workshop

Create a floral spring wreath with Diana Conklin of Diana Everlasting at the Reboli Center for the Arts, 64 Main St., Stony Brook from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. A beautiful wreath in your decor is something special but a beautiful wreath made by you is even better! $45 per person includes all materials. For ages 12 and up. Call 631-751-7707 to register.

Thankful Thursdays

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Thankful Thursdays series with a free family-friendly planetarium show at 7 p.m. After the show, an astronomy educator will invite you to look through a telescope at the night sky (weather permitting). Recommended for ages 8 and up. For complimentary tickets, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Comedy Night at the CAC

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Stand Up/Sit Down comedy series in the Sky Room Cafe with live stand up with Richie Byrne at 8 p.m. followed by a Q&A with host Steven Taub. Tickets are $35, $25 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Friday April 11

An evening of Opera

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 270 Main St., Northport presents an concert by Opera Night Long Island at 7:30 p.m. featuring performances by Darlene Bennett, Michaela Larsen, Georgia Rehbock, Christina Russo, Rebecca Rutkovsky, Ariana Warren, Logan Dell’Acqua and Arthur Lai. $10 donation, students free. 631-261-8808

The 7 Fingers in Duel Reality

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents The 7 Fingers in Duel Reality on the Main Stage tonight and April 12 at 8 p.m. This otherworldly production showcases a unique blend of circus, theatre, illusion, music, and dance, creating a jaw-dropping performance for audiences of all ages. Set against the backdrop of a tale reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, two warring families clash in a series of thrilling challenges, each more daring than the last. Tickets range from $47 to $66. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Grounds and Sounds concert

Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket hosts a concert featuring Annie Mark Ensemble at 8:15 p.m. The show 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 April 12

The 7 Fingers in Duel Reality

See April 11 listing.

Grateful Paw Yard Sale fundraiser

Come support Grateful Paw Cat Shelter, 3 Verleye Ave., East Northport at their Yard Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Browse their selection of household items, jewelry, toys and more. 631-757-4517

Port Jeff Health & Wellness Fair

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce presents their 16th 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 food court, health screenings, plenty of giveaways and much more. Free.  631-473-1414, portjeffhealth.com

Shred-Recycle-Dispose event

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station and Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich host a Shred-Recycle-Dispose at the library from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your paper documents for secure shredding, electronic devices for recycling, and old prescription drugs for safe disposal. No registration required. Questions? Call 631-928-1212.

Red Barn Thrift Shop reopens

Save the date! The Red Barn Thrift Shop at the Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North  Country Rd. Mt. Sinai will reopen for the season today and will be open every Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. through the fall. For more information, call 631-473-1582.

Volunteer Open House

Ever thought about volunteering at a museum? Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport will hold a Volunteer Open House from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come learn more about what their amazing volunteers do and the opportunities available. For more information, call 631-757-9859.

Model Train Show

Train Masters of Babylon Model Train Club at the Upper Room Church, 722 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills hosts a Model Train Show Open House on Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come see their new 6500 square foot Come check our progress and enjoy  multiple trains from prewar to the most modern O gauge trains running at all times. Fun for the whole family. Free admission. For more information, visit www.tmbmodeltrainclub.com

Second Saturdays Poetry

The Second Saturdays poetry series continues at All Souls Church in Stony Brook via Zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. Former Suffolk County Poet Laureate Barbara Southard will be the featured poet followed by an open reading. All are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/

Easter and Spring Farm Festival – *This event has been postponed to April 19 due to the weather.

Hippity hop to the Smithtown Historical Society, 239 East Main St., Smithtown for an Easter and Spring Festival from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy a day of farm fun with spring crafts, an Easter scavenger hunt for a special prize, live music, craft and food vendors, pony rides, face painting, farmhouse tours and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Rain date is April 13.  Tickets are $10 per person, $7 members, children under the age of 3 are free at the door or in advance at www.eventbrite.com.

Sunday April 13

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

Selden Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary & Jr. Company will be hosting their annual breakfast with the Easter Bunny, at Engine #1, 44 Woodmere Place, Selden from 8 a.m. to noon with pancakes, raffles to win some Easter Basket goodies, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. $12 per person at the door. Children under the age of 3 are free. 631-732-1234

Pancakes with the Easter Bunny

Mt. Sinai Fire Department Company 1, 746 Mt. Sinai Coram Road, Mt. Sinai hosts its 15th annual Pancakes with the Easter Bunny from 8 a.m. to noon. Come out and eat some pancakes, see the Easter Bunny and take a chance on a raffle. Admission is $10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 children, children under age 4 are free at the door. For more information, call 631-530-3820.

Pancake Breakfast w/Easter Bunny

The Polish American Independent Ladies Auxiliary presents a Pancake Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at the Polish American Independent Club, 35 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station with seatings at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Enjoy pancakes, sausage and fruit served with orange juice, coffee and tea, free photo booth and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny! Tickets are $20 adults, $10 children ages 6 to 17, $2 ages 5 and under at the door. Call 516-383-3456 for more information.

Golden Girls Gone Wild fundraiser

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents The Golden Girls Gone Wild: Dorothy’s Wedding fundraiser on the Second Stage at 11 a.m. The “girls” are back at it, but this time to get Dorothy hitched. It really was bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding because he gets knocked off before making it to the altar. Using clues, help solve the murder during this interactive brunch. Tickets are $125 and includes show and brunch. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Reboli Center art reception

Join the Reboli Center for Art & History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook for a closing reception for its Figure & Form exhibit from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy light refreshments, meet the artists, and explore a stunning showcase of contemporary art. 631-751-7707

Emmett Hughes in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents singer-songwriter Emmett Hughes in concert at 3 p.m. The singer-songwriter writes and performs original songs featuring an eclectic mix of styles; rock, reggae, pop and singer songwriter, together with heartfelt lyrics. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Lucy Kaplansky in concert

WUSB’s Sunday Street Series continues at The Long Island Museum, Stony Brook with a concert by Lucy Kaplansky in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 5 p.m. Named the “troubadour laureate of modern folk,” Kaplansky will accompany herself on guitar, mandolin and on piano. Tickets in advance are $30 at www.sundaystreet.org. Any remaining tickets at the door are $38 (cash only).

Arriza Under the Stars

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents Arrizza Under the Stars, an exclusive planetarium live performance by local artist and musician Yannaki Arrizza, based on his recent 2022 album release Astronomia from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The music includes brilliant electronic soundscapes that combine digital and analog synthesizer sounds along with modern textures provided by the latest digital-audio technologies. Tickets in advance at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org are $35, $40 at the door.

Monday April 14

Ukranian Egg Workshop

Huntington Historical Society presents an Ukranian Egg Papier Mache workshop with Oksana Danziger at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from 6 to 8 p.m. At this special Easter/Spring workshop, participants will be painting beautiful papier-mâché eggs, which are twice the size of real eggs—making them much easier to decorate with intricate designs! Perfect for all skill levels. $45 per person, $40 members. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Hip pain treatment lecture

St. Charles Hospital’s Wisdom Conference Center, 200 Belle Terre Road, Port Jefferson will hold a free community lecture on “Modern Approaches to Conservative and Non-Conservative Treatment of Hip Pain” with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gregory Minutillo from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. To register, call 631-474-6797.

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.

Emerson Legacy Concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook present an Emerson Legacy Concert in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. Settle down for an intimate evening of classical music and cabaret, featuring Emerson String Quartet cellist Paul Watkins (on piano!) alongside Stony Brook University alumna and Metropolitan Opera star Christine Goerke. The pair will be joined by Emerson String Quartet members Eugene Drucker, violin, and Larry Dutton, viola, for an enthralling classical and cabaret program. Ticket prices range from $49 to $56. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

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 is a senior scam seminar presented by the Suffolk County DA’s office and the Suffolk County police. All are welcome. For more information call 631-744-6952.

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 April 15

Travel Presentation Club meeting

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket hosts a meeting of the Travel Presentation Club at 7:30 p.m.  Patricia Paladines will make a presentation entitled “ A World of Birds: Photo Journal of Avian Encounters.” All are welcome. Please contact [email protected] for further information.

Shades of Bublé

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with Shades of Bublé at 8 p.m. With three voices singing incredible songs like “Feeling Good,” “Moondance,” “Sway,” “Come Fly With Me,” “Home,” “Everything,” “Fever,” “Save the Last Dance for Me” and many more, the concert brings the swinging standards and pop hits of Michael Bublé to the stage in an unforgettable high-energy concert event. $45 per person. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Wednesday April 16

Fire Island Lighthouse lecture

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to explore the history of the iconic Fire Island Lighthouse from 1826 to the present with author Bill Bleyer at 7 p.m. Books will be available for sale and signing. To register, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

The Honey Badgers in concert

The Honey Badgers, a Newark, Delaware-based folk and Americana duo,  perform during the monthly Hard Luck Cafe concert series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.  An open mic, for which sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m, precedes the concert.  Tickets are $25 ($20 for Cinema Arts Centre/FMSH members) at www.cinemaartscentre.org or at the box office.

Thursday April 17

Huntington Walking Tour

Huntington Historical Society presents a Masonic temple tour with Ron Seifried, Chairman, Jephtha Masonic Lodge and Town Historian Robert Hughes at 6:30 p.m. Participants will learn about their history, practices, mission, and historic significance, and will be able to enjoy a drink from the lodge bar. This tour will begin at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, located at 228 Main Street in Huntington Village. $25 per person, $20 members. Register at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Film

‘Dust to Dust’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Dust to Dust at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 10 at 7 p.m. Director Kosai Sekine follows haute couture designer Yuima Nakazato as he discovers the grave impact of “fast fashion” on the environment and then challenges his team and his industry to act more sustainably. Resources on recycling and a upcycled fashion show to follow the screening. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Free for All: The Public Library’

In partnership with Independent Lens, the Greater Port Jefferson-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council will host an Indie Lens Pop-Up screening of the documentary Free for All: The Public Library by Dawn Logsdon and Lucie Faulknor at the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach on Friday, April 11 at 6 p.m. The documentary tells the story of the U.S. public library system—a simple idea that shaped a nation and the quiet revolutionaries who made it happen. The event will be followed by a library fair where MCPL representatives across the library’s departments show all the ways libraries serve their communities. Free but registration is required by visiting www.gpjac.org.

Theater

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘Wait Until Dark’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Wait Until Dark from April 18 to May 11. One of the American theatre’s greatest suspense plays, 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.

‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’

Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents Priscilla, Queen of the Desert – The Musical in the Shea Theater in the Islip Arts Building April 17 to 19 and April 23 to 26 at 7:30 p.m. and  April 27 at 2 p.m. Based on the smash-hit movie, the play is the heartwarming, uplifting adventure of three friends, Tick, Bernadette and Adam, a glamorous Sydney-based performing trio who agree to take their show to the middle of the Australian outback. Featuring hits like “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” “Hot Stuff,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Go West,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” and “I Love The Nightlife.” General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID get one free ticket. To order, call 631-451-4163.

(mostly) TRUE THINGS 

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents a (mostly) TRUE THINGS Storytelling Show on April 26 at 7 p.m. Join them for a compelling evening of true stories – with a twist on the theme GAME ON! Hosted by Jude Treder-Wolff, the show will feature Marc Abbott, Aaron Foss, Cyndi Zaweski, and Jezrie-Mercano-Courtney. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only)

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

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. from Jan. 12 through April 27. 631-802-2160

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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Exercises that involve balance, strength, movement, flexibility and endurance all play significant roles in fall prevention. METRO photo

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Taking a tumble can cause broken bones and torn ligaments. While these might not be life-altering in younger folks, they can have serious consequences for older patients, including a decrease in functional ability and a decline in physical and social activities, which can lead to a loss of independence (1)(2). One recent study found that older adults who had suffered a fall had poorer health and well-being two years later when compared to those who had not fallen (3).

What increases your fall risk?

Obviously, environmental factors, like slippery or uneven surfaces, can increase your risk of falling. Age and medication use are also contributing factors. Some medications, like those used to treat high blood pressure or those targeting anxiety, depression and insomnia, are of particular concern. Chronic diseases may also contribute.

If you have upper and lower body strength weakness, decreased vision, a hearing disorder or psychological issues, such as anxiety and depression, these conditions predispose you to falling (4).

How can you reduce your fall risk?

Most importantly, exercise. Exercises that involve balance, strength, movement, flexibility and endurance all play significant roles in fall prevention (5). The good news is that many of these can be done inside with no equipment or with items found around the home. We will look more closely at the research.

Nonslip shoes are a big help. Look for slippers and shoes with non-skid soles. During the winter, choose footwear that prevents sliding on ice, such as boots with cleats or slip-on ice cleats that fit over your shoes.

In the home, secure area rugs, remove tripping hazards, install grab-bars in your bathroom showers and tubs, and add motion-activated nightlights.

And, of course, always pay attention when you’re walking. Don’t text, read or video chat while you’re moving around. A recently published study of young, healthy adults found that texting while walking affected their gait stability and postural balance when they were exposed to a slip hazard (6).

How do medications increase risk?

Several medications heighten fall risk, including psychotropic drugs and high blood pressure medications.

A well-designed study showed that those taking moderate doses of blood pressure medication had the greatest risk of serious injuries from falls, a 40 percent increase (7).

Because these medications can reduce cardiovascular risks, physicians must consider the risk-benefit ratio in older patients before prescribing or stopping a medication. We also should consider whether lifestyle modifications can reverse your need for medication or your dosage (8).

Using exercise to reduce fall risk

A meta-analysis showed that regular exercise significantly reduced the risk of a fall (9). It led to a 37 percent reduction in falls that resulted in injury and a 30 percent reduction in falls that required medical attention. Even more impressive was a 61 percent reduction in fracture risk. The author summarized that exercise not only helps to prevent falls but also fall injuries.

Unfortunately, those who have fallen before often develop a fear that leads them to limit their activities. This leads to a dangerous cycle of reduced balance and increased gait disorders, ultimately resulting in an increased fall risk (10).

Any consistent exercise program that focuses on flexibility and muscle tone and includes core strengthening can help improve your balance. Among those that have been studied, tai chi, yoga and aquatic exercise have all been shown to reduce falls and injuries from falls.

A randomized controlled trial showed that those who did an aquatic exercise program had a significant improvement in the risk of falls (11). The goal of the aquatic exercise was to improve balance, strength and mobility. Results showed a reduction in the overall number of falls and a 44 percent decline in the number of exercising patients who fell during the six-month trial, with no change in the control group.

Tai chi, which requires no equipment, was also shown to reduce both fall risk and fear of falling in older adults (12).

Another pilot study used modified chair yoga classes with a small, over-65 assisted-living population where participants had experienced a recent fall and had a resulting fear of falling (13). While the intention was to assess exercise safety, researchers found that participants had less reliance on assistive devices and three of the 16 participants were able to eliminate their use of mobility assistance devices.

Our best defense against fall risk is prevention with exercise and managing our environments to reduce fall opportunities. In addition, if you are 65 and older, or if you have arthritis and are over 45, it may mean reviewing your medication list with your doctor. Before you consider changing your blood pressure medications, review your risk-to-benefit ratio with your physician.

References:

(1) MMWR. 2014; 63(17):379-383. (2) J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 1998;53(2):M112. (3) Aging Ment Health. 2021 Apr;25(4):742-748. (4) JAMA. 1995;273(17):1348. (5) Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;9:CD007146. (6) Heliyon. 2023 Aug; 9(8): e18366. (7) JAMA Intern Med. 2014 Apr;174(4):588-595. (8) JAMA Intern Med. 2014;174(4):577-587. (9) BMJ. 2013;347:f6234. (10) Age Ageing. 1997 May;26(3):189-193. (11) Menopause. 2013;20(10):1012-1019. (12) Mater Sociomed. 2018 Mar; 30(1): 38–42. (13) Int J Yoga. 2012 Jul-Dec; 5(2): 146–150.

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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