Diet may have a significant impact on heart failure risk and outcomes
By David Dunaief, M.D.
Dr. David Dunaief
Unlike a heart attack, which is acute, heart failure develops slowly and may take years to become symptomatic. Heart failure (HF) occurs when the heart’s pumping is not able to keep up with the body’s demands for blood and oxygen and may decompensate. According to the American Heart Association, over six million Americans are affected, and the numbers are projected to increase significantly by 2030 (1).
There are two types of heart failure, systolic and diastolic. The basic difference is that the ejection fraction, the output of blood with each contraction of the left ventricle of the heart, is more or less preserved in diastolic HF, while it can be significantly reduced in systolic HF.
Fortunately, both types can be diagnosed with the help of an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart. The signs and symptoms of both include shortness of breath on exertion or when lying down, edema or swelling, reduced exercise tolerance, weakness and fatigue. Each of these can impact quality of life significantly.
Major lifestyle risk factors for heart failure include obesity; smoking; poor diet, including consuming too much sodium; being sedentary; and drinking alcohol excessively. Conditions that increase your risk include diabetes, coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.
Typically, heart failure is treated with blood pressure medications, such as beta blockers, ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers. We are going to look at how diet and iron levels can affect heart failure outcomes.
Can diet improve heart failure?
If we look beyond the usual risk factors mentioned above, oxidative stress may play an important role as a contributor to HF.
In a population-based, prospective study, the Swedish Mammography Cohort, results show that a diet rich in antioxidants reduces the risk of developing HF (2). In the group that consumed the most nutrient-dense foods, there was a significant 42 percent reduction in the development of HF, compared to the group that consumed the least. According to the authors, the antioxidants were derived mainly from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, coffee and chocolate. Fruits and vegetables were responsible for the majority of the effect.
What makes this study so impressive is that it is the first of its kind to investigate antioxidants from the diet and their impacts on heart failure prevention.
This was a large study, involving 33,713 women, with good duration — follow-up was 11.3 years. There are limitations to this study, because it is observational, and the population involved only women. Still, the results are very exciting, and it is unlikely there is a downside to applying this approach to the population at large.
More recently, the REGARDS (REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) Trial examined the impact of five dietary patterns on later development of HF in over 16,000 patients followed for a median of 8.7 years.
The dietary patterns included convenience, plant-based, sweets, Southern, and alcohol/salads (3). Researchers found that a plant-based dietary pattern was associated with a significantly lower risk of HF.
Does iron supplementation improve heart failure outcomes?
An observational study that followed 753 heart failure patients for almost two years showed that iron deficiency without anemia increased the risk of mortality in heart failure patients by 42 percent (4).
In this study, iron deficiency was defined as a ferritin level less than 100 μg/L (the storage of iron) or, alternately, transferrin saturation less than 20 percent (the transport of iron) with a ferritin level in the range 100–299 μg/L.
The authors conclude that iron deficiency is potentially more predictive of clinical outcomes than anemia, contributes to the severity of HF and is common in these patients. However, studies of oral iron supplementation has not been shown to improve results, while intravenous supplementation has been shown to reduce hospitalizations and mortality (5).
These studies suggest that we should try to prevent heart failure through dietary changes, including high levels of antioxidants, because it is not easy to reverse the disease. Those with HF should have their ferritin and iron levels checked, because these can be addressed with medical supervision.
References:
(1) Circulation. 2020;141:e139–e596. (2) Am J Med. 2013 Jun:126(6):494-500. (3) J Am Coll Cardiol. 2019 Apr 30; 73(16): 2036–2045. (4) Am Heart J. 2013;165(4):575-582. (5) Eur J Heart Fail. 2018;20(1):125–133.
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.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and Stony Brook University joined the chorus of moviegoers who enjoyed and appreciated the Universal film Oppenheimer.
“I thought the movie was excellent,” said Leemor Joshua-Tor, Professor and HHMI Investigator at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. “It made me think, which is always a good sign.”
Yusuf Hannun, Vice Dean for Cancer Medicine at Stony Brook University, thought the movie was “terrific” and had anticipated the film would be a “simpler” movie.
Jeff Keister, leader of the Detector and Research Equipment Pool at NSLS-II at Brookhaven National Laboratory, described the movie as “interesting” and “well acted.”
Joshua-Tor indicated she didn’t know anything about Robert Oppenheimer, the title character and leader of the Manhattan Project that built the atomic bomb. She “learned lots of new things” about him, she wrote. “I knew he was targeted by McCarthy-ism, but didn’t realize how that came about and the details.”
Keister also didn’t know much about Oppenheimer, who was played by actor Cillian Murphy in the film. “Oppenheimer seemed to quietly struggle with finding his role in the story of the development of the atomic bomb,” Keister said. “At times, he wore the uniform, then later seemed to express regret.”
Like other researchers, particularly those involved in large projects that bring together people with different skills and from various cultural backgrounds, Oppenheimer led a diverse team of scientists amid the heightened tension of World War II.
Oppenheimer was “shown to have been granted an extremely powerful position and was able to form a relatively diverse team, although he was not able to win over all the brightest minds,” Keister wrote.
Joshua-Tor suggested Oppenheimer “charmed” the other scientists, who were so driven by the science and the goal that they “accepted him. The leader of the team should be a great scientist, but doesn’t necessarily have to be the biggest genius. There is a genius in being able to herd the cats in the right way.”
Joel Hurowitz, Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at Stony Brook University, “loved” the movie. Hurowitz has worked with large projects with NASA teams as a part of his research effort.
Hurowitz suggested that the work that goes into coordinating these large projects is “huge” and it requires “a well laid out organizational structure, effective leadership, and a team that is happy working hard towards a common goal.”
‘Stunning’ first bomb test
Keister described the first nuclear bomb test as “stunning” in the movie. “I have to wonder how the environmental and health impacts of such a test came to be judged as inconsequential.”
Some local scientists would have appreciated and enjoyed the opportunity to see more of the science that led to the creation of the bomb.
Science is the “only place the movie fell short,” Hannun said. “They could have spent a bit more time to indicate the basic science behind the project and maybe a bit more about the scientific accomplishments of the various participants.”
Given the focus of the movie on Oppenheimer and his leadership and ultimate ambivalence about the creation of the atomic bomb, Keister suggested that scientists “could be better encouraged to understand the impacts of applied uses of new discoveries. Scientists can learn to broaden their view to include means of mitigating potential negative impacts.”
Research sponsors, including taxpayers and their representatives, have an “ethical responsibility to incorporate scientists’ views of the full impacts into their decisions regarding applications and deployment of new technology,” Keister said.
Joshua-Tor thinks there “always has to be an ongoing conversation between scientists and the citizenry” which has to be an “informed, somewhat dispassionate conversation.”
Recommended movies about scientists
Local researchers also shared some of their film recommendations about scientists.
Hurowitz wrote that his favorite these days is Arrival, a science fiction film starring Amy Adams. If Hurowitz is looking for more lighthearted fare, he writes that “you can’t go wrong with Ghostbusters,” although he’s not sure the main characters Egon, Ray and Peter could be called scientists.
Keister also enjoys science fiction, as it “often challenges us with ethical dilemmas which need to be addressed.” While he isn’t sure he has a favorite, he recommended the sci-fi thriller Ex Machina starring Alicia Vikander as a humanoid robot with artificial intelligence,.
Joshua-Tor recalls liking the film A Beautiful Mind starring Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly as John and Alicia Nash. She also loved the film Hidden Figures, starring Taraji P Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe.
PATH THROUGH HISTORY
The Brookhaven Country Fair returns to the Longwood Estate this weekend.
Ongoing
Stone Bridge Nighthawk Watch
Every evening from Aug. 27 through Oct. 6, from 5:30 p.m. until dusk, the Four Harbors Audubon Society will be tallying migrating Common Nighthawks to better understand nighthawk population trends. Join them at the Stone Bridge at Frank Melville Memorial Park, One Old Field Road, Setauket to witness nighthawks as they pass over during their migratory journey to their wintering grounds in Brazil and Argentina. Visit www.4has.org for further details.
Thursday Sept. 21
Harbor Jazz Festival
Jazz lovers are invited to attend the 8th annual Harbor Jazz Festival at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook tonight through Sept. 23. Each day brings a line-up of jazz greats, including some of the top internationally and nationally recognized talents. All events on Sept. 23 are free and take place on the front lawn of the Jazz Loft and on the Stony Brook Village Green. 631-751-1895, www.thejazzloft.org
Summer Thursday Concert
Join the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook for its final Summer Thursday to bid farewell to the season from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy traditional Mexican music performed by Mariachis Nuevo Amanecer, and view the new exhibition on view in the Art Museum: SOMOS/WE ARE: Latinx Artists of Long Island. Pack a picnic, and enjoy entertainment and the Museum grounds. Free. 631-751-0066
Avalon Astronomy Night – just added!
Avalon Nature Preserve in Stony Brook will host a live observing session (weather permitting) focusing on Saturn and some early Fall deep space objects at The Observatories off Shep Jones Lane from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Parking will be permitted in the barn parking lot. Pre-registration not required. Free.
Friday Sept. 22
Harbor Jazz Festival
See Sept. 21 listing.
Irish Night in Kings Park
Erin go bragh! The Leo P. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum at RJO Middle School, 101 Church St., Kings Park presents Irish Night 2023, an evening celebrating Irish heritage, in the auditorium at 7 p.m. Free. 631-269-3305
Charles Busch heads to CAC
Join the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 park Ave., Huntington for a special night with the stage and screen legend Charles Busch at 7:30 p.m. The program will feature a screening of Die Mommie Die, followed by a discussion with Dr. Jud Newborn. Busch will be signing copies of his lauded new memoir, Leading Lady: A Memoir of a Most Unusual Boy with a concert by Lydia Sabosto. Film and discussion only: $28, $23 members; film, discussion and copy of book: $43 public, $38 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org
Saturday Sept. 23
Harbor Jazz Festival
See Sept. 21 listing.
Great Cow Harbor Weekend
Village of Northport’s annual Great Cow Harbor Weekend kicks off today at 8:30 a.m. with a 10K race followed by a concert and lighted boat display at Northport Village Park at 8 p.m. The festivities continue on Sept. 24 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Main Street is closed to cars as visitors enjoy rides, games, food, music, arts and craft vendors, sidewalk sales and a parade at noon. 631-261-7502, www.cowharbor.org
Fall Yard Sale – This event has been postponed to Sept. 30 with a rain date of Oct. 1.
Join the Yaphank Historical Society for its annual Fall Yard sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the grounds of the Hawkins House, 4 Yaphank Avenue, Yaphank. Featuring a large variety of crafts, collectibles, and household items. Rain date is Sept. 24. 631-924-4803, www.yaphankhistorical.org.
Port Jefferson Hill Climb – This event has been postponed to Sept. 30.
The Port Jefferson Conservancy will host a re-enactment of the 1910 Hill Climb from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come cheer on antique cars as theyretrace the original Hill Climb course from the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson to the top of East Broadway followed by a car parade through the village. Gates open at 8 a.m. Rain date is Sept. 30. 631-238-2290, portjeff.com
Brookhaven Country Fair – This event has been canceled due to the weather forecast.
The Town of Brookhaven’s Country Fair returns to the historic Longwood Estate located on Longwood Road and Smith Road in Ridge today and Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy traditional crafts, vendors, colonial cooking, Revolutionary War and Civil War re-enactments, music by the Ed Travers Band, pet shows, vintage apron show, house tours, and children’s activities. Leashed dogs permitted. Held rain or shine. Admission is $5, children 12 and under free. 631-924-1820, www.brookhavenny.gov
Community Wide Yard Sale – This event has been postponed to Sept. 30.
Sound Beach Civic Association hosts its 3rd annual Community Wide Yard Sale as well as the second yearly coat drive at the Adopt-A-Spot, 30 New York Ave., Sound Beach from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Over a dozen households are participating. Stop by to find a hidden treasure and share the warmth with those less fortunate. The Sound Beach Fire Dept. will bring an engine/ambulance and set up a recruitment table as well as have raffle tickets and challenge coins you can buy. Rain date is Sept. 30. 631-744-6952.
Greenlawn Church Fair
First Presbyterian Church, 497 Pulaski Road, Greenlawn will present its annual Church Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature craft vendors, raffles, indoor rummage sale, live music and a food court. Something for everyone! Rain date is Sept. 30. 631-261-2150
Library Craft Fair – This event has been moved indoors to Community Rooms A & B on the lower level.
Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook will hold a craft fair from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Stop by and peruse handmade crafts and specialty items. 631-588-5024
Gallery North Outdoor Art Show
Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket presents its 57th annual Outdoor Art Show & Music Festival today and Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring some of the finest art and craft from regional artists and artisans, the event will also include live musical performances, kids activities, as well as delicious food vendors. Awards are granted for best in show for each category, including crafts, fiber art, glass art, jewelry, painting, photography, pottery, printmaking, and more. Free admission. 631-751-2676,www.gallerynorth.org
Happy Harbor Day – This event has been postponed to Sept. 30.
The Village of Nissequogue and The Friends of Stony Brook Harbor will host Happy Harbor Day to raise awareness of Stony Brook Harbor from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 555 Long Beach in Nissequogue. The day will include presentations by environmental and marine science experts, an aquarium touch tank, carnival games, music, art contest and more. Free admission. 631-862-7400
CommUniversity Day – This event has been postponed to a later date.
Enjoy a festival of fun and discovery for all ages at Stony Brook University’s annual CommUniversity Day at the Academic Mall from noon to 4 p.m. with health screenings, Teddy Bear Clinic, fun crafts, duck race, food court, community art projects, giveaways and much more. Free admission. Held rain or shine. www.stonybrook.edu/CommUniversity
Draw Out! Arts Festival – This event will be moved indoors in case of rain.
Join the Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington for its annual Draw Out! Community Arts Festival, a day of creativity, art, music, and family fun for all ages, from noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy watercolor painting in scenic Heckscher Park, create a collage and sketch from a live model, enjoy live music on the terrace by Jason Dorsa and traditional songs and dances by the boys & Girls Club of the ShinnecockNation and take part in a docent-led tour of the museum’s latest exhibits. Free. No reservations required. 631-380-3230, www.heckscher.org
BEE Amazing! event – This event has been canceled.
Starflower Experiences presents BEE Amazing!, a celebration of bees at Manor Farm, 210 Manor Road, Huntington from 1 to 5 p.m. Learn about bees and native plants and help plant a pollinator garden with games, crafts, vendors and a costume contest. $5 per person. Rain date is Sept. 24. 631-213-1927
Pat Methany in Concert
Jazz legend Pat Methany heads to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook at 8 p.m. as part of his solo tour to coincide with his new album, Dream Box. The concert will feature personal and fan favorites. Tickets to the Main Stage eventrange from $61 to $90. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.
Sunday Sept. 24
Great Cow Harbor Weekend
See Sept. 23 listing.
Brookhaven Country Fair
See Sept. 23 listing.
Gallery North Outdoor Art Show
See Sept. 23 listing.
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
Pass the maple syrup! The Setauket Fire Department Auxiliary Department will hold their annual Pancake Breakfast/Chinese Auction Fundraiser from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Setauket Fire Department’s Station #2, 9 Arrowhead Lane, East Setauket. Tickets at the door are $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children under age 10, and toddlers under 2 are free. [email protected]
Lions Club Car Show – Postponed to Oct. 1
The Port Jefferson Lions Club invites the community to its 2nd annual judged Car Show at Brookhaven Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presented by The Fabulous 50s & 60s Nostalgia Car Club, the event will feature food, music, raffles and vendors with over 14 trophy classes plusa special people’s choice trophy decided by YOUR vote. Proceeds will sponsor a guide dog for the blind. Rain date is Oct. 1. 631-680-7212
Heritage Country Fair – Postponed to October 8
The Smithtown Historical Society, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown will hold its annual Heritage Country Fair from noon to 4 p.m. with Island Long Riders Cowboy Mounted Shooting displays, petting zoo and pony rides, live music, historical reenactions, blacksmithing, spinning and other demonstrations, a vendor market, touch a truck and so much more. Tickets are $5 per person. Held rain or shine. 631-265-6768.
Stories in Stone Garden Cemetery Tour – This event is full
Join the Whaling Museum 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for a Stories in Stone Garden Cemetery Tour at 1 p.m. or at 3 p.m. Did you know that before public parks existed, people enjoyed garden cemeteries – a Victorian revolution to enjoy more of nature? Get acquainted with some of St. John’s Cemetery’s permanent residents and discover the fascinating burial customs of the Victorian era, such as the intriguing practice of post-mortem photography. Suitable for ages 12+. $15 participant, $10 Museum Members.
Medicine Fish in concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by Medicine Fish from 3 to 4 p.m. Featuring John Velsor on guitar and vocals; Julian “Laserz” Maultsby on bass and vocals; Ryan Griffin on drums and percussion; and James “The Hat” Messina on guitar and vocals. Free with admission to the museum. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org.
Owl Prowl
Join Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown for an Owl Prowl from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Learn about some of the Center’s resident owls and then embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and call some owls. Meet behind the main house and check in. Wear bug spray and bring a flashlight just in case. Open to families with children ages 5y and up. $15 per person at www.sweetbriarnc.org.
Monday Sept. 25
No events listed for this day.
Tuesday Sept. 26
Stony Brook Walking Tour
Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO) will host a walking tour experience, Unwind & Uncork History: The Story of Wine & the Stony Brook Grist Mill on today at 3 p.m. and again on Sept. 27 at 3 p.m. Tour-goers will “uncork” the stories of the Stony Brook Grist Mill (c. 1751), the sight of Long Island’s very first vineyard. This will include a tour of the Stony Brook Grist Mill, the scandalous story of Edward Kane, his Lakeside Wine Company, and a brief lesson on wine. Fee for the touris $25 per person and includes a bottle of authentic Catawba wine from Lake Side Emotions Wine Boutique. All participants must be 21 or older. Advance registration is required by calling 631-751-2244.
Beyond the Book Club
The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor kicks off its fall session of Beyond the Book Club tonight at 6:30 p.m. The Apparitionists: A Tale of Phantoms, Fraud, Photography, and the Man Who Captured Lincoln’s Ghost by Peter Manseau will be discussed in detail. Participants of this session will explore the intriguing history of Victorian-era spirit photography: supernatural ‘proof’ of ghosts which endured for decades and reflects the human desire to communicate beyond the physical. Historic photographs from the local Jones-Hewlett family will be on view for the group. $15 per person person. www.cshwhalingmuseum.org
Wednesday Sept. 27
Stony Brook Walking Tour
See Sept. 26 listing.
Cruise Night at The Shoppes
Cruise Nights are back at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River from 5 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday through Oct. 25. Check out the fine array of classic and coveted automobiles from car enthusiasts from across Long Island in The Shoppes parking lot. 631-929-3500
A Night at the Oscars
Flowerfield Celebrations, 199 Mills Pond Road, St. James hosts a fundraiser by Celebrate St. James, A Night at the Oscars, to create the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, from 6 to 11 p.m. The evening will honor founders Jack Ader, Natalie Weinstein and Arline Goldstein. Tickets are $195 per person at www.celebratestjamestheater.org, 631-984-0201
Thursday Sept. 28
Vanderbilt lecture
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will host Andrew Lipman, Associate Professor of History at Barnard College, for a lecture based on his award-winning book The Saltwater Frontier: Indians and the Contest for the American Coast in the Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium theater at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10, members free at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Native American Drumming
All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook will host an evening of Native American Drumming from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Native American Drumming Meditation is a spiritual healing practice that is thousands of years old. 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. Please call 631-655-7798 for more information.
The Crossroads of Verse – This event has been canceled – will be held at a future date.
Temple Beth El, 660 Park Ave., Huntington presents The Crossroads of Verse at 7:30 p.m. Emily-Sue Sloane (poet) and Linda Sussman (singer-songwriter) connect their artistry in a program designed to stir the heart and mind. Don’t miss this special event crafted by these award-winning artists! Free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served. Questions? Email [email protected].
Film
‘Have You Got It Yet?
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will screen Have You Got It Yet? The story of Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd on Sept. 25 at 7:30 p.m. Cult icon, enigma, recluse… the life of Syd Barrett, founding member of Pink Floyd, is full of unanswered questions. Until now.Featuring new interviews with Roger Waters, David Gilmour, and Nick Mason. Tickets are $15, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.
‘The Scarlet Letter’
As part of its Anything But Silent series, the Cinema Arts Centre will screen The Scarlet Letter (1926) with live accompaniment by Ben Model on Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m.Adapted from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1850 novel, Victor Sjöström’s The Scarlet Letter stars silent film superstar Lillian Gish as Hester Prynne, a young Puritan woman in a loveless marriage to a much older man. Tickets are $17 $12 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Theater
‘The Prom’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off its 53rd season with The Prom from Sept. 16 to Oct. 21. As the lights dim on four fading Broadway stars, they wildly seek the spotlight. Courting the controversy surrounding a small-town Indiana prom, the quartet invades a community that wants to keep the party straight. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors, $20 students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Rent’
Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Jonathan Larson’s Rent from Sept. 16 to Oct. 22. Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, the groundbreaking musicalfollows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians — Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, Benny and Mark — struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
ENCORE PERFORMANCE Back by popular demand, Jeffrey Sanzel stars in the one man show Every Brilliant Thing at Theatre Three for a limited time. Photo courtesy of Theatre Three
Every Brilliant Thing’
Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, in association with Response Crisis Center, presents Every Brilliant Thing, a one-man show starring Jeffrey Sanzel, on the Second Stage from Sept. 17 to Oct. 8. With audience members recruited to take on supporting roles, Every Brilliant Thing is a heart-wrenching, hilarious story of depression and the lengths we will go for those we love. All seats are $20. Fifty percent of the gross proceeds of this production will benefit Response Crisis Center. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Beautiful’
Main stage theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical from Sept. 14 to Oct. 29. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing success with Tapestry, the showtakes you back to where it all began–and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” and many more. This Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning show is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget. Tickets range from $85 to $95. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Smoker’
The Performing Arts Studio, 224 E. Main St., Port Jefferson presents Totally True Things, a solo storytelling show series produced by Lifestage, Inc that will feature award-winning artists sharing true stories that focus on mental health issues, beginning with Smoker, written and performed by Bob Brader, on Oct. 1 at 4 p.m. John Martin from the Suffolk County Office Of Health Education will join Brader and the show director Suzanne Bachner for a talkback Q&A facilitated by host/producer Jude Treder-Wolff following the performance. Tickets are $20 online at Eventbrite, $25 at the door.
‘Antigone Now: A Short Drama’
The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Antigone Now: A Short Drama by Melissa Cooper in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. In the midst of a bombed-out city still feeling the aftershocks of war, the rebellious and intense Antigone defies her uncle to bury her disgraced brother. This contemporary response to the myth of Antigone brings powerful, modern prose to an ancient and universal story. *Mature ContentGeneral admission: $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. For tickets call 631-451-4163.
‘An Inspector Calls’
Minstrel Players, Houghton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, 130 Main St., Northport presents J.B. Priestley’s An Inspector Calls from Oct. 14 to 22. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. To order, call 516-361-7232 or email [email protected].
‘The Color Purple’ heads to theaters on Christmas Day. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
By Tim Haggerty and Jeffrey Sanzel
Filmgoers can look forward to an excitingfield of offerings for the fall and holiday season. A wide range of releases promises a host of titles in a strong cross-section of genres including horror, musicals, historical dramas, and family movies. Here are some of the most anticipated movies for the rest of 2023, listed in order of release date. Ready, set, … action!
A Haunting in Venice
Kenneth Branagh’s follow-up to Death on the Nile is A Haunting in Venice, his third outing as celebrated sleuth Hercule Poirot. The Agatha Christie-inspired story focuses on murder during a séance and promises thrills offered up by a star-studded. Along with director-actor Branagh are Tina Fey, Jamie Dornan, Kelly Reilly and Michelle Yeoh, among others.
Rated PG-13· Release date September 15
Saw X
While not for the faint of heart (or stomach), Saw X marks the tenth in the Jigsaw saga. The film is set between the events of Saw and Saw II and follows a desperate man traveling to Mexico for a medical procedure, which is revealed to be a scam. Tobin Bell once again takes on the role of John Kramer/Jigsaw.
Rated TBA· Release date September 29
The Exorcist: Believer
David Gordon Green appropriately follows the end of his recent Halloween trilogy with The Exorcist: Believer. Originally, the producers were going to reboot the series, but instead have opted for a direct sequel to the landmark 1973 original. Ellen Burstyn reprises her starring role.
Rated R· Release date October 13
Killers of the Flower Moon
It has been four years since Academy Award-winner Martin Scorsese’s much-lauded The Irishman. Now, the great director presents Killers of the Flower Moon. Based on David Grann’s bestseller of the same name, the film centers on a series of Oklahoma murders in the Osage Nation during the 1920s, committed after oil was discovered on tribal land. The film, which stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, John Lithgow, Jesse Plemons, Tantoo Cardinal and Brendan Fraser, promises to be one of the fall’s best and most exciting films.
Rated R· Release date October 20
Priscilla
Sofia Coppola tells the Elvis story through meeting, courtship, and marriage in Priscilla. Based on Priscilla Presley’s memoir Elvis and Me, Coppola creates the private life of the superstar in what will hopefully be her signature brilliance, blending high art with raw emotion. Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi star as Priscilla and Elvis.
Rated R· Release date October 27
Five Nights at Freddy’s
Taking its cue from the video game, Five Nights at Freddy’s follows a security guard (Josh Hutcherson) on night-time patrol at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, an abandoned family entertainment center, where animatronic mascots kill anyone there after midnight.
Rated PG-13 Release Date October 27
Pain Hustlers
David Yates features Emily Blunt, Chris Evans, Andy Garcia, and Catherine O’Hara in Pain Hustlers, a true-events crime drama centered on a criminal conspiracy at a pharmaceutical start-up.
Rated R· Release date October 27
The Marvels
The Marvel Universe expands with The Marvels, a Captain Marvel sequel starring Nia DaCosta, along with Brie Larson as Carol Danvers, and Iman Vallanis’ Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel of the Disney+ series).
Rated PG-13· Release date November 10
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes
The multi-million-dollar Hunger Games franchise returns with a prequel based on Suzanne Collins’ novel The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. Series vet Francis Lawrence directs the story that follows young Coriolanus Snow (played by Donald Sutherland in the previous four films) and his involvement with the Hunger Games.
Rated PG-13· Release date November 17
Next Goal Wins
Based on the 2015 documentary, Next Goal Wins tells the story of Dutch American soccer coach Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender), hired to help turn around the American Samoa national team, considered one of the worst in the world. (The trailers suggest a warm Ted Lasso vibe.)
Rated PG-13· Release date November 17
Napoleon
Napoleon joins director Ridley Scott with Joaquin Phoenix as the French general-turned-emperor. While the film will include a number of Napoleon’s most famous battles, its primary focus is on his tempestuous love story with his first wife, Joséphine (Vanessa Kirby).
Rated R· Release date November 22
Maestro
Perhaps one of the most anticipated fall films is Bradley Cooper’s biopic Maestro. Director Cooper has co-written (along with Josh Singer) the screenplay in which he stars as the extraordinary and complicated musician Leonard Bernstein. The film also stars Carey Mulligan, Maya Hawke and Jeremy Strong.
Rated R· Release date November 22
Wish
Disney’s Wish chronicles the origin story of the Wishing Star, with Ariana DeBose,Chris Pine and Alan Tudyk starring in Frozen writers Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck’s screenplay. When darkness falls upon the Kingdom of Wishes, a young girl wishes upon a star to save her home, only to have the star physically come to her aid and becomes her sidekick. If the advance buzz is any indication, the animated film could become another Disney classic.
Rated TBA· Release date November 2
Poor Things
Emma Stone plays Bella Baxter, a young suicide brought back to life by a scientist (Willem Dafoe) in the unusual and surreal Poor Things, based on the 1992 Alasdair Gray novel.
Rated R· Release Date December 8.
Wonka
Timothée Chalamet takes on the title role in Wonka, an origin story of the eccentric candy maker. Paddington director Paul King has assembled an all-star cast with Olivia Colman, Sally Hawkins, Keegan Michael-Key, and Rowan Atkinson. The film promises to be a visual feast and a fascinating take on Roald Dahls’ legendary character.
Rated PG· Release date December 15
The Color Purple
Stephen Spielberg filmed Alice Walker’s indelible novel The Color Purple in his Oscar-nominated 1985 film. Now Blitz Bazawule brings the Broadway musical to the big screen, withDanielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, and Louis Gossett Jr., showcasing the Tony-nominated score by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray.
Rated PG-13· Release date December 25
This article originally appeared in TBR News Media’s Harvest Times supplement on Sept. 14.
Artist Hillary Serota Needle (third from right) with family and friends. Photo by Maureen Starr/HAC
'Lilac Jungle' by Hillary Serota Needle
Artist Hillary Serota Needle with her husband. Photo by Maureen Starr/HAC
Artist Edward Acosta (on left) with reception guest
'In the Clouds' by Edward Acosta
Artist Emily Martin and artist Edward Acosta
Artist Emily Martin (center) with friend and husband.
'Sixteen' by Emily Martin
Friends and family in attendance at Tranquility art reception
Great turnout for Tranquility art reception. Photo by Maureen Starr/HAC
Artist Michael Sansone (far right) with his guests
'Summer Light' by Michael Sansone
Artist Edward Acosta and artist Michael Sansone with guests. Photo by Maureen Starr/HAC
The Huntington Arts Council (HAC) hosted an opening reception for its latest art exhibit, Tranquility, at its Main Street Gallery on September 8. The beautiful group show features the work of Edward Acosta, Emily Martin, Michael Sansone and Hillary Serota Needle.
“The most powerful aspect of the arts is to give us a sense of place and a sense of home. The tranquil feeling of being where we belong in our communities. The current small group show reflects on that sense of tranquility. I encourage all to come meet these artists from your community and talk about their work during the Fall Huntington Village Art Walk on October 1st from noon to 5 p.m.,” said Kieran Johnson, Executive Director at the HAC.
Tranquility will be on view at the Main Street Gallery, 213 Main Street in Huntington through Oct. 14. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.For more information, call 631-271-8423 or visit www.huntingtonarts.org.
A DAY ON THE WATER
Join the Setauket Harbor Task Force for kayak lessons, a boat ride, music, crafts and more during Setauket Harbor Day on Sept. 17 (event moved from Sept. 16). Photo by Maria Hoffman
Ongoing
Stone Bridge Nighthawk Watch
Every evening from Aug. 27 through Oct. 6, from 5:30 p.m. until dusk, the Four Harbors Audubon Society will be tallying migrating Common Nighthawks to better understand nighthawk population trends. Join them at the Stone Bridge at Frank Melville Memorial Park, One Old Field Road, Setauket to witness nighthawks as they pass over during their migratory journey to their wintering grounds in Brazil and Argentina. Visit www.4has.org for further details.
Thursday Sept. 14
An Evening Under the Stars
Huntington Historical Society hosts its annual fall fundraiser, An Evening Under the Stars Reimagined, at the Kissam House, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy a cocktail party withhors d’oeuvres, food trucks, wines and beer from local breweries and live music performed by the Bogs. Tickets are $150 per person, $130 members at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org. 631-427-7045
Friday Sept. 15
Greenlawn Greek Festival
St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Shrine Church, 1 Shrine Place, Greenlawn invites the community to its annual Greek Festival tonight from 6 to 10 p.m., and Sept. 16 and 17 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy authentic Greek food and pastries, rides and games. 631-261-7272, www.stparaskevi.org
Third Friday at the Reboli
The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook continues its Third Friday series with an engaging talk with exhibiting artist Mickey Paraskevas from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Light refreshments and light snacks will be served at this free event. No reservations are required to attend. 631-751-7707
Saturday Sept. 16
Greenlawn Greek Festival
See Sept. 15 listing.
Dragon Boat Race Festival
The 9th annual Dragon Boat Race Festival heads to Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Presented by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, the event will showcase dragon boat races throughout the day with Asian-themed food, cultural crafts, traditional lion dance, children activities and much more. Held rain or shine. Free admission. 631-473-1414, https://portjeffdragonboatracefest.com
St. Elizabeth Car Show
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton R.C. Church, 800 Portion Road, Lake Ronkonkoma presents its annual car show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with trophies, prizes and raffles. Spectators free. 631-484-2807
Garlic Festival
New location! Waterdrinker Farm, 663 Wading River Road, Manorville hosts the 21st annual Long Island Garlic Festival today and Sept. 17 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Go on a garlic scavenger hunt, learn about garlic on a musical hayride, try garlic ice cream with live music, vendor market, food trucks and family activities. Admission is $20 per person. 631-878-8653
Community Yard and Craft Sale
St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church, 18 Magnolia Place, Selden will host an outdoor yard and craft sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families and vendors will be selling merchandise of all kinds, including yard sale wares, handmade clothing, jewelry, wreaths and more! 631-732-8773
Antiques, Flea Market & Craft Fair
The Manorville Historical Society will hold its 33rd annual Antiques, Craft Fair and Flea Market on the grounds of The Maples, 10 Ryerson Ave., Manorville from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Antiques, flea market items, handmade crafts, food and raffle auction. 631-878-8358
Setauket Country Fair
Caroline Episcopal Church of Setauket invites the community to it annual Country Fair on the grounds of the church (1 Dyke Road, Setauket) and the Setauket Village Green across from Emma Clark Library on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 60 arts, crafts and gift vendors, barn sale, food court, baked goods, basket raffle and live music. Free admission. Rain date is Sept. 23. 631-941-4245
Treasures Sale
Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket will hold a Treasures Sale in Fellowship Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come shop for toys, games, jewelry, attic treasures, homegoods, and antiques. Baked goods and drinks will also be for sale. 631-941-4271
Pickle Festival
John Gardiner Farm, 900 Park Ave., Greenlawn presents its 43rd annual Pickle Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy specialty pickles, jams, farmer’s market, craft vendors, corn maze, hayrides and a ride on the restored Lollipop Farm train. Admission is $5. 631-754-1180
Craft Fair Weekend
It’s apple season on the North Fork and while you’re heading out east visit the Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River for a Craft Fair Weekend today and Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy local craft vendors, bounce house, carousel and face painting for kids. 631-846-2370
San Gennaro Feast
Lenny Bruno Farms, 740 Wading River Road, Manorville presents the annual San Gennaro Feast: A traditional Italian-American celebration of food, fun, and family, today from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring a vendor market, food trucks, games, beer and wine tastings, visit with farm animals and more. Admission is $10 per person, children 2 and under are free. 631-591-3592
Setauket Harbor Day – This event has been postponed to September 17.
Come celebrate the history of beautiful Setauket Harbor at the Brookhaven Town Dock and Beach on Shore Road from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy free kayak lessons and boat rides, learn about Setauket’s shipbuilding past and view displays of the marine environment of a thriving harbor. Enjoy live music, food, arts and crafts and more. Sponsored by the Setauket Harbor Task Force. Free. 631-404-6447
German Fall Festival
St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 30 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown presents its annual German Fall Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring brats & beer, German baked goods, pickles, pretzels, hair braiding, vendors, bracelet making, children’s games, bounce house and raffles. Rain date is Sept. 23. 631-265-2288, www.standrewsofsmithtown.org
Victorian Tea
Join the Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society for a Victorian Tea at the Fitz-Greene Hallock Homestead (1888), 2869 Pond Road, Lake Ronkonkoma with two seatings: 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a full Victorian Tea lunch, self-guided tour of the house and grounds and door prizes. $30 per person with timed seating. Reservations required. 631-588-7599
Baseball on the Farm
Preservation Long Island and the Long Island Museum have teamed up to host aBaseball on the Farm event with the New York Mutual Base Ball Club at the Sherwood-Jayne Farm, 55 Old Post Road, E. Setauket from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy an authentic 19th-century ballgame with the New York Mutual Base Ball Club against the Atlantics with live music, games, prizes, food and more. Free admission. Rain date Sept. 17. www.preservationlongisland.org
Car Show Fundraiser
Brandywine Living at Huntington Terrace, 70 Pinelawn Road, Melville will host a Classic Car Show to benefit veterans at 2 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase food and beverages to benefit Tunnels to Towers, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans and enjoy live music. 631-531-0000
Sunday Sept. 17
Greenlawn Greek Festival
See Sept. 15 listing.
Garlic Festival
See Sept. 16 listing.
San Gennaro Feast
See Sept. 16 listing.
Craft Fair Weekend
See Sept. 16 listing.
Caumsett Hike
Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a6 mile, hilly, moderately paced walk to relax, socialize, and enjoy the park’s beauty from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. $4 per person. Advance reservations required by calling 631-423-1770
Taps & Talons at Hoyt Farm
Hoyt Farm, 200 New Highway, Commack host a Taps and Talons fundraiser for Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown from 2 to 6 p.m. With over 15 breweries, the event features beer tastings, live music, and wildlife demonstrations. This event is 21 and over; photo ID is required. Car pooling and ride share encouraged. Tickets are $45 per person at www.sweetbriarnc.org.
John Avlon
CAC welcomes CNN’s John Avlon
Long Island LitFest presents an in-person talk with CNN news anchor and award-winning columnist John Avlon, as he discusses his latest book, Lincoln and the Fight for Peace with his wife, Margaret Hoover, the host of PBS’ “Firing Line with Margaret Hoover,” at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington at 2 p.m. Tickets are $40, $35 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.
LITMA Contradance
Smithtown Historical Society’s Frank Brush Barn, 210 E. Main St., Smithtown will host a LITMA Contradance from 2 to 5 p.m. Basic instruction will be held at 1:45 p.m. Ridge Kennedy will be calling the Dance with music by Blarney Possum. $15 general admission, $10 LITMA members, $7.50 students, hildren under 16 free with paid adult. Please bring snacks to share at the break. 631-369-7854
Songwriters of LI Concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by Songwriters of Long Island at 3 p.m. An ‘all-star’ lineup will be performing several of their original songs each including Bob Sinclair, Frank “Kingee” Latorre, Rorie Kelly, Erik Semo, Martha Trachtenberg and Hank Stone. Free with admission to the museum. 631-689-5888,visit www.limusichalloffame.org.
Baroque Sundays at Three
Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a Baroque Sundays at Three concert in the Recital Hall at 3 p.m. Featuring Jeremy Rhizor on Baroque Violin, Arnie Tanimoto on Viola da Gamba and Marc Bellassai on Harpsichord. These performances are free of charge to the public and ask only for a good-will donation of $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. 631-632-7330
Monday Sept. 18
TVHS lecture
Three Village Historical Society continues its lecture series at the Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket tonight at 7 p.m. Author Brad Kolodny will discuss his latest book, Seeking Sanctuary: 125 Years of Synogogues on Long Island. Free and open to all. www.tvhs.org
Sky Room Talk
The Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington presents a Sky Room Talk titledThe Seriously Funny Cinema of Mel Brooks at 7:30 p.m. Film Historian Glenn Andreiev presents a one-night talk on the great Mel — with laugh-filled clips of his work in television and film. Tickets are $17, $12 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
Tuesday Sept. 19
Travel Presentation Club
The Travel Presentation Club will meet at 7 p.m. at tEmma S. Clark Memorial Library , 120 Main Street in Setauket. Janice and F. James Rohlf will make a presentation entitled “Adventures at Ningaloo Riff and the Kimberley, Western Australia”. All are welcome. Please contact [email protected] for further information.
Wednesday Sept. 20
Harbor Jazz Festival
Jazz lovers are invited to attend the 8th annual Harbor Jazz Festival at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook from Sept. 20 to 23. Each day brings a line-up of jazz greats, including some of the top internationally and nationally recognized talents. All events on Sept. 23 are free and take place on the front lawn of the Jazz Loft and on the Stony Brook Village Green. 631-751-1895, www.thejazzloft.org
Hard Luck Cafe concert
Nashville-based singer-songwriters Halley Neal and Sam Robbins will kick off the 2023-2024 season of the monthly Hard Luck Café 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 on from 7 to 10 p.m. An open mic, for which sign-up is at 6:30 p.m., precedes the concert. Admission is $20, $15 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org
Cruise Night at The Shoppes
Cruise Nights are back at The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River from 5 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday through Oct. 25. Check out the fine array of classic and coveted automobiles from car enthusiasts from across Long Island in The Shoppes parking lot. 631-929-3500
Thursday Sept. 21
Harbor Jazz Festival
See Sept. 20 listing.
Film
‘Rather’
The Port Jefferson Documentary Series Fall 2023 season opens with a screening ofRather at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson on Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. Frank Marshall’s incisive documentary is a long-overdue tribute to an icon of journalism, a late-in-life Twitter superstar, a father, husband, and a voice of reason, compassion, and brilliance: Dan Rather. Followed by a Q&A with guest speakers Taylor Wildenhaus andSarah Baxter. $10 (cash only) at the door or purchase in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.
Theater
‘The Prom’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kick off its 53rd season with The Prom from Sept. 16 to Oct. 21. As the lights dim on four fading Broadway stars, they wildly seek the spotlight. Courting the controversy surrounding a small-town Indiana prom, the quartet invades a community that wants to keep the party straight. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors, $20 students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Rent’
Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Jonathan Larson’s Rent from Sept. 16 to Oct. 22. Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, the groundbreaking musicalfollows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians — Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, Benny and Mark — struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Every Brilliant Thing’
Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, in association with Response Crisis Center, presents Every Brilliant Thing, a one-man show starring Jeffrey Sanzel, on the Second Stage from Sept. 17 to Oct. 8.With audience members recruited to take on supporting roles, Every Brilliant Thing is a heart-wrenching, hilarious story of depression and the lengths we will go for those we love. All seats are $20. Fifty percent of the gross proceeds of this production will benefit Response Crisis Center. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Beautiful’
Main stage theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical from Sept. 14 to Oct. 29. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing success with Tapestry, the showtakes you back to where it all began–and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” and many more. This Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning show is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget. Tickets range from $85 to $90. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Antigone Now: A Short Drama’
The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Antigone Now: A Short Drama by Melissa Cooper in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. In the midst of a bombed-out city still feeling the aftershocks of war, the rebellious and intense Antigone defies her uncle to bury her disgraced brother. This contemporary response to the myth of Antigone brings powerful, modern prose to an ancient and universal story. *Mature ContentGeneral admission: $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. For tickets call 631-451-4163.
Class Reunions
•Save the date! Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].
Fathom Events’ Big Screen Classics series continues with the beloved 1988 road trip saga Rain Man — returning to select theaters nationwide in honor of its 35th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 17 and Wednesday, Sept. 20.
A scene from ‘Rain Man’
The film stars Tom Cruise as Charlie Babbitt, a self-centered car dealer caught in a financial bind. Charlie’s life becomes even more complicated when his estranged father’s will reveals the existence of an older brother he never knew existed: Raymond (played by Dustin Hoffman in the role that would earn him his second Oscar® for Best Actor in a Leading Role), an autistic savant who stands to inherit their father’s three-million-dollar estate.
Determined to get his own cut of the money, Charlie kidnaps Raymond from the institution he calls home, with plans to head out for Los Angeles to settle some debts. What follows is a powerful cross-country odyssey of brotherhood and self-discovery that will change both of their lives forever. The film is the winner of four Academy Awards®, including Best Picture, Directing, Writing (Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen), and Best Actor in a Leading Role.
Each screening includes an exclusive introduction by legendary film critic and historian Leonard Maltin.
Locally, the film will be screened at AMC Loews Stony Brook 17, Island 16 Cinema de Lux in Holtsville and Showcase Cinema de Lux in Farmingdale on Sept. 17 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and on Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. To order tickets in advance, visit www.fathomevents.com.
Smithtown's 2022 9/11 ceremony. Photo from the Town of Smithtown
Twenty-two years ago, the United States changed forever when hijacked jetliners crashed into the Twin Towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a field outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania. At Ground Zero in New York City, the traditional reading of names of each victim will being at 8:30 a.m. this year at the 9/11 Memorial and the following ceremonies will be held on the North Shore to honor the thousands of lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, a day that will live forever in our hearts.
Centereach
The Centereach Fire Department, 9 South Washington Ave., Centereach invites the community to join them on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. for its annual 9/11 Memorial Services and candle lighting ceremony. 631-588-8652
Coram
Join the Coram Fire Department, 202 Middle Country Road, Coram for a remembrance ceremony on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. 631-732-5733.
East Northport
The East Northport Fire Department, 1 Ninth Ave., East Northport will host two 9/11 memorial services on Sept. 11 — a morning ceremony at 9:45 a.m. and an evening candlelight vigil at 8 p.m. 631-261-0360
Huntington
The public is invited to join Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth, Town officials, members of the Huntington Veterans Advisory Board, and Veterans of all wars, for a 9/11 Memorial Service at the Heckscher Park 9/11 memorial, 147 Main St., Huntington on Sept. 10 at noon. 631-351-3012
Mount Sinai
The Mt. Sinai Fire Department will host a 9/11 memorial ceremony at its headquarters, 746 Mount Sinai-Coram Road, Mt. Sinai on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. 631-473-2418
Nesconset
The 9/11 Responders Remembered Park, 316 Nesconset Blvd., Nesconset will host its annual memorial service and naming ceremony on Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. 631-724-3320
Port Jefferson
— The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Vigiano Brothers Lodge 3436 invite the community to join them for a candlelight remembrance of 9/11 at Harborfront Park, 101-A East Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sept. 11 at 6 p.m. Candles and refreshments will be provided. 631-928-7489
— The Port Jefferson Fire Department, 115 Maple Ave., Port Jefferson will hold a 9/11 memorial service on Sept. 11 at 9 a.m. 631-473-8910.
Rocky Point
The Rocky Point Fire Department will host a ceremony at the 9/11 Community Memorial, at the corner of Route 25A and Tesla Street in Shoreham, on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. 631-744-4102
Selden
The Selden Fire Department, 44 Woodmere Place will host a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Sept.11 at 7 p.m. 631-732-1234
Setauket
The Setauket Fire Department will conduct a 9/11 memorial ceremony at the Hook and Ladder Company 1, Station 3, 394 Nicolls Road, Setauket on Sept. 11 at 8 p.m. followed by refreshments in the firehouse. Call 631-941-4900, ext. 1043
Smithtown
The Town of Smithtown will hold a Remembrance ceremony at 9/11 Memorial Park, located on Main Street (North Side) between Bank Street and Landing Avenue, Smithtown on Sept. 11 at 4 p.m. 631-360-7600
REMEMBRANCE AND MEMORIES
Celebrate St. James will hold an opening reception for its juried 9/11 exhibit on Sept. 10.
Image above, ‘Our Flag Was Still There’ by Jack Ader
Ongoing
Stone Bridge Nighthawk Watch
Every evening from Aug. 27 through Oct. 6, from 5:30 p.m. until dusk, the Four Harbors Audubon Society will be tallying migrating Common Nighthawks to better understand nighthawk population trends. Join them at the Stone Bridge at Frank Melville Memorial Park, One Old Field Road, Setauket to witness nighthawks as they pass over during their migratory journey to their wintering grounds in Brazil and Argentina. Visit www.4has.org for further details.
Thursday Sept. 7
Lunch & Learn
Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch & Learn series with Return to Sender: Women of Color in Colonial Postcards & the Politics of Representation with presenter Mara Ahmed at Matteo’s of Huntington, 300 W Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station at noon. The presentation will include video, images, and literary excerpts. Tickets are $60m $50 members and includes a three-course meal, wine and dessert. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org or call 631-427-7045.
Friday Sept. 8
East Northport Festival
East Northport Chamber of Commerce presents the 28th annual East Northport Festival at John J. Walsh Memorial Park, 190 Larkfield Road, East Northport tonight from 6 to 11 p.m., Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring games, rides, live music, international food truck festival, craft vendors (on Sept. 9 and 10), craft wine and beer garden and more. Free admission. 631-261-3573, www.eastnorthport.com.
Rusty Spur in concert
Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road,Holbrook will host an outdoor concert featuring Rusty Spur at 7 p.m. Grab your wristband and claim your spot beginning at 5 p.m. Bring seating. Open to all. 631-588-5024
An Evening of Opera
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Huntington, 109 Browns Road, Huntington hosts a concert by Opera Night, Long Island at 7:30 p.m. (ONLI) is a nonprofit organization providing the Island’s only live opera series. Opera, operetta, art songs and musical theater excerpts are performed by accomplished singers and accompanists. $10 donation at the door. www.operanight.org
Grounds and Sounds Concert
Grounds and Sounds Cafe, UUFSB, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket welcomes Robinson Treacher(blues, folk, Americana, and country) in concert. Doors open and sign up for open mic starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 per person, available in advance and at the door. Light refreshments for sale. 631 751-0297, www.groundsandsounds.org
Saturday Sept. 9
East Northport Festival
See Sept. 8 listing.
PJHS Barn Sale
Port Jefferson Historical Society will hold a Barn Sale on the lawn of the Mather House Museum, 115 Prospect Street, Port Jefferson from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come shop for lots of treasures. 631-473-2665
Vendor and Multi-Family Yard Sale
Setauket United Methodist Church, 160 Main St., East Setauket will hold a Vendor and Multi-Family Yard Sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring children’s items, Pampered Chef, jewelry, books, baked goods and more. Held rain or shine. 631-941-4167
Community Garage Sale
Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will host a Community Garage Sale in the back parking lot from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There will be something for everyone! Rain date is Sept. 16. 631-585-9393
Culper Spy Day
Three Village Historical Society and Tri-Spy Tours, in collaboration with local historical and cultural organizations, present the 9th annual Culper Spy Day from 10 a.m. to 4p.m. Begin at the TVHS, 93 North Country Road, Setauket. Come learn about the Culper Spy Ring from costumed docents along with colonial cooking and invisible ink demonstrations, historic house tours, a walking tour and much more. Most events are free. 631-751-3730, www.culperspyday.com
Yard Sale & Craft Fair
The Davis Town Meeting House Society will hold its annual Yard Sale and Craft Fair at the Davis House, 263 Middle Country Road, Coram from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.with live music, Revolutionary War presentation, autumn crafts for children and a visit from Ozzie the Miniature Horse. Rain date Sept. 10. 631-804-2256
Hallockville Country Fair
Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead welcomes the community to its 43rd annual Country Fair and Craft Show today and Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The two-day event will feature craft and artisan vendors, live music, children’s activities and games, tractor pulls and hayride, pony rides, guided tours of the farmhouse, steam and quilt exhibits, food trucks, farmers market and more. Held rain or shine. $12 per person ages 3 and up,. 631-298-5292, www.hallockville.org
Village Cup Regatta
The 14th annual Village Cup Regatta, a fundraising sailing competition between teams from the Village of Port Jefferson and Mather Hospital, kicks off with festivities at Harborfront Park, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson at 10 a.m. and a Memorial Parade of Boats at 11 a.m. www.portjeffersonyachtclub.com
All Souls Saturdays Poetry Reading
The Saturdays poetry series returns to All Souls Church in Stony Brook via zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. Sandy McIntosh will be the featured poet. An open-reading will follow; 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/
Old Burying Ground Tour
Join the Huntington Historical Society for a tour of Huntington’s earliest public burying ground, established soon after the Town’s 1653 founding, at 4 p.m. You’ll view stunning folk art and beautiful epitaphs while listening to stories of Huntington’s residents and rich history. All tours begin at The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, 228 Main Street Huntington. $15 per person, $10 members, $5 children. To register, call 631-427-7045.
Jazzand Dance at The Jazz Loft
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook welcomes the Michele Brangwen Dance & Music Ensemble, a dance company that melds Jazz with contemporary dance, at7 p.m. The group will be accompanied by Tim Hagans on trumpet; Jon Irabagon on saxophone; Thomas Helton on double bass; and Sam Knight on drums. Tickets are $35 adults; $30 seniors; $20 students; $20 children at www.thejazzloft.org.
An Evening of Comedy
The Comedy Club at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson returns with another night of hilarious non-stop laughter and fun with Maria Walsh, Tim Krompier, and more at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
Sunday 10
East Northport Festival
See Sept. 8 listing.
Hallockville Country Fair
See Sept. 9 listing.
Car Show and Swap Meet
Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater at Bald Hill, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville, hosts a Car Show and Swap Meet by Long Island Cars from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Street rods, classics, muscle cars, antiques, exotics, imports and collectible cars on display with vendors selling parts and accessories, food and entertainment. Admission is $10, under 12 years are free. 631-567-5898, www.LongIslandCars.com
Fiddle and Folk Festival
Three stages, great music, dance, food and fun awaits you at the 11th annual Fiddle and Folk Festival at Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring performances by The Slambovian Circus of Dreams, The Cassandra House Band, Barbeque Bruce and the Brisket Brothers, Stephen Robinson and Hank Stone along with fiddle workshops, sing-alongs, kids zone, contra dancing and more. Bring seating. Advance sale tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and $10 for children. Tickets on the day of the event are $23 adults, $20 seniors and $10 for children. www.fiddleandfolk.com, 631-689-8172
Italian Car Show – This event has been canceled.
Stony Brook University’s Center for Italian Studies hosts the 17th annual Robert D. Cess Concorso D’Eleganza, featuring Italian classic and vintage cars, at the West Campus, Parking Lot 1, Circle Road, Stony Brook (across from the Wang Center and Truman Hall) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free admission. 631-632-7444
Nesconset Street Fair
Join the Nesconset Chamber of Commerce for Nesconset Day along Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset Plaza and the Nesconset Gazebo from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.The street fair will feature vendors, crafts, music, games, food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, free giveaways and much more. 631-672-5197, www.nesconsetchamber.org.
Over 50 Fair
Hilton Long Island, 598 Broadhollow Road, Melville will host the 14th annual Over 50 Fair from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Over 25 classes will be presented including Dream interpretation, Ghost hunting, How to improve your dating and sex life after 50, stress reduction, a comedy show, a dance demonstration, and yoga. In addition, there will be over 80 vendors, live music, blackjack table, a singles lounge and photo booth. Admission tickets, which include access to all classes, exhibitors, and attractions are $5 online, $7 at the door, and free for Veterans with ID. www.Over50Fair.com, 516-621-1446.
Jaguar Car Show
Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will host the 50th annual Jaguar-MG Concours D’Elegance on the Great Lawn from noon to 4 p.m. Presented by the Jaguar Drivers Club of L.I. and the MG Car Club-Long Island Centre. Rain date is Sept. 17. Visitors pay only museum admission of $10 adults, $9 students and seniors, $7 children 12 and under, which includes estate-grounds access. 631-854-5579, www.jdcli.com
9/11 Art Exhibit
Join Celebrate St. James for an opening reception for its Remembrance & Memories of 9/11 juried art exhibition at the St. JamesCalderone Theatre, 176 Second St., St. James from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Enjoy the music of Lou Mazzaferro and light refreshments. Free. 631-984-0201
Northport Walking Tour
Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport hosts a Historic Main Street Walking Tour on Sept. 10 at 1:30 p.m. Join your guide Dan Sheehan as he weaves the tale of Northport’s Historic Business District. Travel back in time as you hear the stories of the people and landmarks that helped shape Northport, including Jack Kerouac, the Northport Oyster Barons, Rum Runners and the Trolley. For all ages. $7 per person. Register at www.northporthistorical.org.
Northport Historical Society lecture
Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a lecture by author and historian Claire Bellerjeau at 2 p.m. Bellerjeau will discuss her new book, Remember Liss, a new perspective to America’s founding, from the point of view of an enslaved Black woman seeking personal liberty in a country fighting for its own A book signing will follow. $10 per person. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.
Spiritlifters in concert
St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington will host a concert featuring The Spiritlifters at 3 p.m. All are welcome. 631-427-1752.
My World/Johnny Juice in Concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by My World/Johnny Juice from 3 to 4 p.m. Free with admission to the museum. For more information, call 689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org.
Monday Sept. 11
* See list of 9/11 events at tbrnewsmedia.com
Historical Society Presentation
Join the Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society for a presentation titled Smallpox in Washington’s Army: Disease, War and Society During the Revolutionary War at the Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai at 7 p.m. with guest speaker Dr. Ann Becker. Free. 631-476-5742
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.All are welcome. For more information call 631-744-6952.
Tuesday Sept. 12
Garden Club Presentation
Join the Shoreham–Wading River Garden Club for a free presentation by Cornelius Schmid on “Propagation with seeds: Adapting professional practices for home growers” at the Wading River Congregational Church, 2075 N. Country Rd, Wading River at 7 p.m. The presentation will cover seed production from start to finish. Live demonstrations, hands on experience and a resource guide will be provided. Free. A donation of non perishable food items for a local food pantries would be appreciated. All are welcome to attend.
Wednesday Sept. 13
Music Under the Stars
The Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce presents Music Under the Stars with live music by The Band Easy Street at the Elks Club Lodge (parking lot), 41 Horseblock Road, Centereach from 6 to 9 p.m. with food trucks and a beer garden. Concert begins at 7 p.m. Rain date is Sept. 20. Bring seating. Free admission. 631-681-8708
Thursday Sept. 14
An Evening Under the Stars
Huntington Historical Society hosts its annual fall fundraiser, An Evening Under the Stars Reimagined, at the Kissam House, 434 Park Ave., Huntington from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy a cocktail party withhors d’oeuvres, food trucks, wines and beer from local breweries and live music performed by the Bogs. Tickets are $150 per person, $130 members at www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org. 631-427-7045
Theater
‘The Prom’
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson kick off its 53rd season with The Prom from Sept. 16 to Oct. 21. As the lights dim on four fading Broadway stars, they wildly seek the spotlight. Courting the controversy surrounding a small-town Indiana prom, the quartet invades a community that wants to keep the party straight. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors, $20 students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Love’s Labour’s Lost’
The Carriage House Players continue their 34th annual Summer Shakespeare Festival in the mansion courtyard of the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport with Love’s Labour’s Lost on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. from Aug. 11 to Sept. 8. Tickets are $20, $15 children under 12 at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
‘Rent’
Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown presents Jonathan Larson’s Rent from Sept. 16 to Oct. 22. Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, the groundbreaking musicalfollows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians — Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, Benny and Mark — struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. Tickets are $35 adults, $32 seniors, $28 students. To order, call 800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Every Brilliant Thing’
Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson, in association with Response Crisis Center, presents Every Brilliant Thing, a one-man show starring Jeffrey Sanzel, on the Second Stage from Sept. 17 to Oct. 8.With audience members recruited to take on supporting roles, Every Brilliant Thing is a heart-wrenching, hilarious story of depression and the lengths we will go for those we love. All seats are $20. Fifty percent of the gross proceeds of this production will benefit Response Crisis Center. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘(Mostly) True Things’
The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents (Mostly) True Things, a game wrapped in a storytelling show that features true stories, with a twist, exploring the theme Return on Sept. 10 at 4 p.m. The show features 4 true stories but 3 of them include subtle little lies. In the second act, the audience questions the storytellers, then votes for the person they think told it straight. Winners get a tote bag, and the whole truth about each story is shared before the end of the evening. Storytellers will include Jude Treder-Wolff, Peter Arevelo, Marisa T. Cohen, Bob Brader, Aida ZilelianTickets are $20 online at Eventbrite or $25 at the door (cash only). www.mostlytruethings.com
‘Beautiful’
Main stage theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical from Sept. 14 to Oct. 29. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing success with Tapestry, the showtakes you back to where it all began–and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “So Far Away,” and many more. This Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning show is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget. Tickets range from $85 to $90. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Antigone Now: A Short Drama’
The Theatres at Suffolk County Community College present Antigone Now: A Short Drama by Melissa Cooper in Theatre 119, Islip Arts Building Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden on Oct. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. In the midst of a bombed-out city still feeling the aftershocks of war, the rebellious and intense Antigone defies her uncle to bury her disgraced brother. This contemporary response to the myth of Antigone brings powerful, modern prose to an ancient and universal story. *Mature ContentGeneral admission: $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. For tickets call 631-451-4163.
Class Reunions
•Save the date! Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected].
One can hardly travel a half block on Long Island without seeing a bag of Tate’s Bake Shop cookies, but that’s not a bad thing. The ubiquitous green bags are a sure sign of impending happiness.
Tate’s Bake Shop founder Kathleen King opened her first bakery when she was just 21 years old. The dream began long before that, though. Young Kathleen baked her signature thin and crispy cookies from age 11 on, selling them at her father Tate’s East End farmstand and using the profits to buy new school clothes each year. Today, the multi-million-dollar business has made Tate’s a nationwide favorite.
This summer, King released a children’s picture book called Cookie Queen: How One Girl Started Tate’s Bake Shop [Random House] co-written with Lowey Bundy Sichol and illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki. It’s King’s first book for children — she also has two cookbooks of baked goods.
Cookie Queen is an autobiographical reflection of Tate’s humble beginnings in a simple home kitchen. Young Kathleen is tired of the puffy and gooey cookies she sees everywhere — what she really wants is a thin, crispy cookie, But King’s process of trial and error shows young readers that reaching a goal isn’t always quick or easy. Kathleen makes batches and batches of cookies that she doesn’t like, experimenting and struggling to find the perfect recipe.
These important lessons of patience, hard work and following your dreams are coupled with beautiful illustrations from Kaulitzki. She captures the sprawling farm, Kathleen’s house and the family’s market with polished, detailed scenes. Little ones will enjoy pointing out farm animals, a house cat, a tractor and other thoughtful extras.
At the end of the book, older readers can learn about the real Tate’s Bake Shop with an easy to digest, single page history. Perhaps the best inclusion is Kathleen and Tate’s personal recipe for molasses cookies to make at home. Who knows, maybe a young reader in your life might discover their own love of baking.
My godchildren, ages 4 and 2, were big fans of the book when I read it to them. No surprise there — after all, what kid wouldn’t like a book about cookies? That said, the vocabulary and overall message would be better understood by elementary school readers.
Age aside, this book is best enjoyed as a family, then immediately followed by some hands-on time together in the kitchen, especially with dessert-heavy holidays approaching. To order, visit amazon.com, bn.com or your favorite online retailer.
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